Divine Savior Holy Angels High School is a Catholic, college-preparatory high school for young women that excels at developing the whole person. Sponsored by the Sisters of the Divine Savior and grounded in their mission to make known the goodness and kindness of Jesus Christ, we develop our students into capable young women of faith, heart, and intellect who accept the gospel call to live lives that will make a difference.
Kathleen Cepelka, PhD, Secretary Retired, Archdiocese of Milwaukee
Jacquie Fossett, Treasurer QBE North America
S. Grace Mary Croft, SDS, DS ’56, Sponsorship Coordinator Sisters of the Divine Savior
Frank Probst, Sponsorship Coordinator Sisters of the Divine Savior
Katie Brown Konieczny, DSHA ’92, President and Ex-Officio Divine Savior Holy Angels High School
MEMBERS
Juan Banda | Froedtert Hospital Froedtert Health
Heather Mehring Grams, DSHA ’97 | Next Door Milwaukee
Steve Hartzheim | Rockwell Automation
Barbara Henderson, JD | Community Volunteer
Brigitte Hyler Richerson | Advocate Aurora Health
Molly Hegarty Kanter, JD | State of Wisconsin—Department of Workforce Development
Mary Ellen Krueger | Aspiriant
Aaron Lipski | City of Milwaukee Fire Department
Arlisia McHenry | Consultant, City of Milwaukee
Brian Merdes | Rockwell Automation
Derek Mosley, JD | Marquette University Law School
Ann Pieper Eisenbrown | Pieper Properties
S. Carol Thresher, SDS, DS ’59 | Sisters of the Divine Savior
John Wimmer | Wimmer Communities
ADMINISTRATION
SENIOR TEAM
Katie Brown Konieczny, DSHA ’92, President
Dan Quesnell, Principal
*Sally Gramling, Senior Team/Advisor
Chris Janssen, Chief Financial Officer
STRATEGIC COUNCIL
Cynthia Blaze, Director of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion
Ann Duffy Scott, DSHA ’10, Director of Admissions & Financial Aid
Rachel Fredricks, Dean of Student Affairs
Claire Hartley, JD, VP of HR and In-House Counsel
+Erin Housiaux, Academic Dean
Stephanie Monson, Director of Campus Ministry
+Kevin Roethe, Athletic Director
Maria Schram, Director of Students Services
*Peggy Seegers-Braun, Athletic Director
Molly Shea, VP of Marketing & Communications
John White, Director of Technology
*Retired 2024-25
+Incoming 2025-26
Scan to view the 2025-26 DSHA Board of Directors.
CELEBRATING MULTICULTURAL WEEK 2025
This year, Dashers participated in the annual DSHA Multicultural Week from April 7–11. The week is designed to celebrate the diverse backgrounds within the DSHA community and spark conversations around important topics. The week’s festivities are open to all students, and all are encouraged to participate. The daily events throughout the week culminate in an all-school Multicultural Assembly where Dashers shared their gifts and talents. The assembly featured singing performances, several original spoken word pieces, Native American earth dancing, a traditional quinceañera dance, recited poetry, hip hop dancing, Irish dancing, Polish dancing, a Mariachi performance, and salsa dancing. Over 75 students participated in the assembly, and a special moment was held when Theology Faculty Lynn Dziadulewicz invited students and faculty volunteers to the stage to learn a traditional Polish dance.
f Monday, April 7 Cultural Attire Day | Dashers were encouraged to dress in clothing to celebrate their culture, including traditional attire, flag colors, jerseys, and more.
f Tuesday, April 8 “Did You Know?” Kahoot | Students were invited to participate in an optional trivia Kahoot game during both lunches that featured questions about certain countries’ traditions, holidays, foods, and more.
f Thursday April 10 Furia Latina Thankful Thursday Mass | Dashers had the option to attend a Spanish-spoken Mass in the Mother of Our Savior Chapel organized by the Furia Latina co-curricular.
Scan to view full research posters and complete list of DSHA SMART Team participants.
f Thursday April 10 Multicultural Food Fair | A new Multicultural Event this year, the larger DSHA community was invited to attend a Multicultural Food Fair held in the DSHA Quad over the dinner hour. The fair featured African, African American, Italian, Polish, French, Mexican, Swedish, Asian, and Puerto Rican food. In addition to the various foods being served, there were varieties of games and activities for children including musical chairs, crafts, flag scavenger hunts, piñatas, and more.
f Friday, April 11 Multicultural All-School Assembly | The all-school assembly was held in the Robert & Marie Hansen Family Fine Arts Theatre at the end of the week to celebrate the diverse backgrounds at DSHA.
POWDERPUFF FOOTBALL
In May, students, faculty, and staff were invited outside to the recent favorite powderpuff football tournament! The event was organized by the DSHA School Pride (SPRIDE) Committee, Campus Ministry Student Officers, and various co-curricular leaders. Throughout the game, several co-curriculars sold sweet treats, popcorn, fruit, coffee and refreshers, and more. The money raised went to benefit the Great Lakes Adaptive Sports Association. The non-profit organization strives to ensure that no athlete sits on the sidelines and supports youth, adults, and injured military personnel who have a physical or visual disability through inclusive adaptive sports programs. Over $1,500 was raised for the organization. This year, the DSHA classes of 2027 and 2026 faced off in the championship, with the class of 2027 ultimately bringing home the trophy with a final score of 25-19.
Letter from the President & Principal
Special Events Highlights
Dasher Life Highlights
Fine Arts Highlights
Athletic Highlights
Dasher Days of Giving + The DSHA Annual Fund
Faith Feature | Salvatorian Sisters’ Service Award
Heart Feature | Co-Curriculars Present on a National Scale
Intellect Feature | Class of 2025 Academic Department Awards
Faculty & Staff Focus | Celebrating the Retirement of:
The Word Magazine is published for and about the students, alumnae, parents, faculty, staff, administrators, and friends of Divine Savior Holy Angels High School. Your feedback is always welcome; contact VP of Marketing & Communications Molly Shea at SheaM@dsha.info.
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF:
Molly Shea, VP of Marketing & Communications
CREATIVE DIRECTOR:
Alex Mora, Director of Graphic Design & Marketing Projects
STAFF WRITER:
Erin McCarville, Marketing & Development Writer
ADDITIONAL CONTRIBUTORS:
President Katie Brown Konieczny, DSHA ’92; Principal Dan Quesnell; and Alumnae Director Danielle Jerominski Rabe, DSHA ’08
LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT & PRINCIPAL
Dear DSHA Community,
We have a new Pope! | On Thursday, May 8, I (Katie) was working in my office late morning in relative peace and quiet. And then I heard a sound I have not heard coming from the walls of this building—ever. Shrieking as loud as you can imagine came from a group of around 325 Dashers in the Quad during lunch. My first thought was, “Is everyone okay?” And the second thought was, “It must be the senior prank, (it was that time of year!) I better check in.”
As I reached the Quad I caught eyes with Theology Faculty Mary Duffy who was all smiles amidst the volume of excitement—a full minute later remained a steady and joyful ruckus. Mary’s face told me right away that it was not the senior prank, and she quickly clarified: “We have white smoke!”
A minute earlier, Mary announced the news and the lunch room of our girls erupted. As I entered the Quad and connected the dots, I was overwhelmed with emotion. Of course, for the excitement in awaiting to hear who the new pope would be; but in that moment, the emotion was more about getting to work and lead among a community that is shepherding and growing the future Church. We had been talking about and praying for the Conclave as a school, so we knew our girls would be interested. Yet to see them express such an incredible and passionate excitement about the announcement of white smoke is something I will carry with me for a lifetime. It was a definitive and clarifying moment for me—it was a true show of the way our faculty and staff are developing young women of faith, who care deeply about the Church, its future, and their roles in accepting the gospel call to live lives that make a difference in the world.
Celebrating Retirements | The commitment to our Catholic identity lives within our full faculty and staff—well beyond the theology and campus ministry departments. This year, we are celebrating the retirement of four beloved members of our faculty and staff, including three department leaders—all of whom were committed fully to our mission and are leaving us better and secured for the years to come—and in the wonderful hands of a new group of leaders ready to take their reigns.
Retired Chief Financial Officer Sally Gramling, DSHA ’79 | On page 45, you will read about Sally and her commitment to this mission. She was a third member of our administrative senior team. She filtered every decision to do with the stewardship of our budget and financial resources through a mission-driven, student-experience lens. Her work with our DSHA Board of Directors, Finance Committee, and Investment Committees was rooted in professionalism and integrity.
Sally had the opportunity to help hire and overlap with our incoming Chief Financial Officer Chris Janssen Chris brings extensive experience in financial leadership, having spent 21 years at Zimmerman Architectural Studios, Inc., eventually serving as Vice President of Accounting. In 2015, he joined the YMCA of Greater Waukesha County as Controller and was promoted to CFO in 2020. Chris shares:
“Sally went out of her way to set me up for success here. She guided me through the nuances of working in education, and was very intentional in ushering me into a gradual leadership over the various areas of this role. I can’t say enough about Sally. I am excited to be here, because I’ve never been in a spot where people have as much passion for what they do—everyone seems so happy here and a part of the mission.”
Retired Specialized Studies Department Chair and Mathematics Faculty Connie Farrow | On page 39, you will read about Connie. The all-girls, Catholic environment has given a “purpose to her work,” as she says. Her passion for encouraging young women in STEM has categorically shaped DSHA for current and future generations of Dashers. Perhaps most notably, she dreamed, developed, and implemented the unique-to-DSHA STEM Scholars program that has offered both increased opportunity and confidence for young women in STEM, and has also led to the creation of additional academic honors programs at DSHA.
Next year, STEM Scholars will be in the hands of Mathematics Faculty Rissie Lundberg, DSHA ’93 , who has been teaching college-level STEM Courses at DSHA for nearly 20 years. Rissie shares:
“Connie has been an A+ teacher—she’s methodical, organized, and passionate and she’s approached STEM Scholars the same way. She’s created such an incredible blueprint for this program that her innovative work will continue on as DSHA provides opportunities to support young women in STEM. It’s an honor to pick up where she left off and encourage STEM-confidence in our young women through this program.”
Retired Athletic Director Peggy Seegers-Braun | On page 35, you will read about Peggy. That said, to share the entirety of her accomplishments and impact on this school and our students for over 37 years would require a book. She has led a program to championship after championship, earned countless state-wide and national awards, and developed the premier place for a young woman to be an athlete in the state of Wisconsin. Though it is her behind-the-scenes work, and deep commitment to her Catholic faith and the DSHA mission, that has truly impacted our student-athletes and the athletic program as whole.
Peggy is handing the reigns of Dasher Athletics over to Kevin Roethe , long-time DSHA soccer coach and science faculty . Kevin’s roots are deep at DSHA—his mother, sister, and daughters are all Dashers. He shares:
“I’ve been fortunate to witness Peggy’s leadership the past 20 years from the perspective of a coach and educator. I have watched her lead with integrity and empathy, as she advocates for our student-athletes and coaches with kindness. I am grateful for the opportunity to continue to lead a department with a strong foundation and look forward to continuing the tradition of excellence for years to come.”
Additionally, Peggy’s Athletic Administrative Assistant, Maureen Stowell , will be retiring after 11 years of excellent service to the Dasher Athletic Department and our students. Read more about Maureen on page 43. We wish our retirees all the best in the years ahead (and we’d like to remind them that once a Dasher, always a Dasher!) And we have so much confidence in the faculty and staff who will continue to lead our students in faith, heart, and intellect.
We love you, DSHA Class of 2025! | Finally, as always in the Spring Semester recap issue of The Word Magazine, we wish our graduating seniors the very best in their future endeavors and can’t wait to follow along as they accept the gospel call to live lives that make a difference in the world. In the pages ahead, we will celebrate the accomplishments, the legacy, and the future of this group of young women who leave us as confident and capable young women of faith, self-advocates, critical thinkers, communicators, and leaders.
As you read about our spring semester, we know you are wrapping up your summers and preparing for the fall. We have some exciting things planned for our 2025-26 school year including a new Salvatorian Family House System that we will be sharing more about in the coming weeks and months. Stay tuned!
Blessings to you and your families as you enter the change of season.
Scan to watch our senior class celebrate their college decisions.
Read about our DSHA Class of 2025 beginning on page 47.
Katie Brown Konieczny, DSHA ’92 President
Dan Quesnell Principal
SPECIAL EVENTS | HIGHLIGHTS
1 | DINNER, DANCING, AND DAD(S)
Dashers and their dads, or special father figures, attended the favorite Father Daughter Dinner Dance on January 25. The group gathered at the Pfister Hotel in downtown Milwaukee for a night of dinner, live music, dancing, and bonding. Thank you to current parent Megan Hambrook for chairing the event. Pictured: Cloe Vang, DSHA ’25 , with her father Jerry Vang
2 | CATHOLIC CUP CELEBRATION
On April 12, the DSHA Varsity Soccer team hosted girls from Regis Jesuit High School in Denver, CO, for the first Catholic Cup. To begin the weekend, several Regis student-athletes shadowed Dashers in class on Friday. On Saturday, the teams played each other before attending an early Palm Sunday Mass in the Mother of Our Savior Chapel. DSHA Chaplain Fr. Silas Henderson, SDS , presided over the Mass and Head Varsity Soccer Coach & Science Faculty Kevin Roethe organized the special event. (Dashers won the game with a final score of 2-1!)
3
| MASQUERADE BALL AUCTION
On March 8, the DSHA community gathered to celebrate and raise funds to help further the DSHA mission. The Masquerade Ball evening included a silent and live auction, dinner, dancing, and the annual paddle raise for scholarships. This year, the generous DSHA community raised over $215,000 for scholarships to ensure that every qualified young woman has the opportunity to attend DSHA. Pictured: Matt and Meg Hegarty Dean, DSHA ’94
4 | GRANDPARENT GET-TOGETHER
DSHA welcomed grandparents, and special grandparent figures, to the annual DSHA Grandparent Liturgy on April 30. A favorite DSHA event, the Divine Strings and Liturgical Music Choir provided the music while DSHA Chaplain Fr. Silas Henderson, SDS , presided over the Mass. Following the liturgy, grandparents and granddaughters spent quality time with each other over a light breakfast. Pictured: Genevieve Baltz, DSHA ’28 , with her grandfather.
5
| CAREER DAY CONNECTIONS
On February 25, sophomores and juniors participated in the annual Carla Olle, HA ’60 (pictured center) Career Day . Dashers first gathered in the Robert and Marie Hansen Family Fine Arts Theatre to listen to Olle speak about the importance of the day. Students then heard from keynote speaker and founder of Chasing Paper, Elizabeth Rees, DSHA ’02 (pictured second from left). She discussed her career journey and encouraged girls to bet on themselves. Afterward, students attended four sessions each based on their career interests, with an alumna speaking about her profession.
6 | MEMORIES WITH MOM
On May 4, students were invited to attend a Mother Daughter Mass in the Mother of Our Savior Chapel to celebrate an early Mother’s Day with DSHA Chaplain Fr. Silas Henderson, SDS . Dashers and moms, or special mother figures, attended the liturgy and enjoyed a light breakfast, followed by floral arranging. Pictured: Angelique Brousseau with daughter Mya Brousseau, DSHA ’25
7 | EXTRAORDINARY VOLUNTEERS
DSHA hosted a Volunteer Appreciation Dinner at Zisters in Elm Grove to celebrate and honor those who have given back to DSHA with their time and talents on May 15. Longtime volunteers and Dasher parents Liam and Susan Callanan received the Spirit of DSHA Award. Current and past parents Joseph and (Director of Salvatorian Service) Dr. Katie Daily Pickart, DSHA ’84 , received the Sarah Hagerty Loyalty and Caring Award. Pictured are additional award winners: (back, left to right): Krislyn Holaday-Wondrachek, Emily Steiner, Maria Schmelzer, and Scott Riemer . Pictured (front, left to right): Sara Yordan Di Bendetto, DSHA ’08 , Dr. Greeta Cherayil, DSHA ’77 , and Maureen Riemer
8 | SUPPORTING SINGLE MOTHERS DURING LENT
Throughout Lent, Dashers participated in the 2025 Lenten Project to benefit The Social Foundation of Mary of the Apostles. The organization empowers women, particularly single mothers, through training programs in the Colombian cities of Cali and Quibdó. The Sisters of the Divine Savior in Colombia seek to change futures by strengthening education and providing a support network. Students raised funds for the cause including the annual Lenten Student Auction, exceeding their goal raising over $9,000 for the organization. Pictured left to right: Mina Akiya, DSHA ’27 ; Amelia Jens, DSHA ’27 ; and Camille McBride, DSHA ’27
9 | TEMPO TALKS
This spring, Gracie Olejniczak, DSHA ’25 , addressed TEMPO, Wisconsin’s largest professional group for women. Olejniczak discussed her love of the all-girls environment at DSHA, how she has found her passions, and gained confidence. She stated, “One of the most inspiring things about being part of DSHA is seeing the women who have come before me: alumnae, teachers, and mentors who are proof that strong, kind, successful women exist in every field, and they show me that anythingis possible.”
Scan to hear
Olejniczak’s remarks.
DASHER LIFE | HIGHLIGHTS
1
| FIVE-MINUTE FRIDAYS
New this year during Lent, the DSHA Campus Ministry Officers led and organized Five Minute Fridays. Each Friday throughout Lent, students, faculty, and staff were invited to the Mother of Our Savior Chapel for five minutes to listen to the gospel of the day, participate in a short meditation led by a student reader, and engage in a few minutes of silent prayer. Additionally, DSHA offered numerous opportunities for learning, prayer, and reflection throughout the Lenten season, including all-school Eucharistic Adoration, all-school Reconciliation, Thankful Thursday Masses, and more.
2 | CHERISHING CATHOLIC SCHOOLS
From January 26-February 1, the DSHA community celebrated Catholic Schools Week with special activities including a senior vs. faculty/staff basketball game, the annual Gr8 Lengths Assembly, a blood drive, and more. The week ended with an all-school Mass in which students, faculty, and staff officially welcomed the new DSHA Chaplain Fr. Silas Henderson, SDS , as he presided over the special Mass. As tradition during the week, faculty and staff celebrating milestone years of service at DSHA were also recognized. Theology Department Chair & Coordinator of Adult Faith Formation Lisa Metz was given a standing ovation for her 25 years of service to DSHA.
3 | FRENCH EXPLORATION
From March 14-28, 26 Dashers immersed themselves in French culture during the annual French trip, with World Languages Faculty Madame Eileen Gleeson leading the experience. Students stayed with host families while attending Lycée St. Jean, a Catholic school in Limoges. While there, students traveled to various historical sites and areas including the River Seine, the Eiffel Tower, le Château de Versailles, Château des Milandes, Sacré Coeur and Montmartre, Notre Dame, as well as several museums that featured French art and sculptures. Pictured left to right: Sofia Miller, DSHA ’26 ; Mary Moran, DSHA ’26 ; and Lucy Halpern, DSHA ’26
4 | SOLIDARITY IN SERVICE
The Vocare service immersion experience remains the capstone of each student’s four years of Salvatorian service at DSHA. Each senior served for two full weeks in the greater Milwaukee community, working alongside the elderly, children, those with special needs, or at community outreach organizations. Serving at 47 different sites, Dashers experienced firsthand many of the critical issues facing society while gaining a deeper understanding of how they can utilize their God-given gifts and talents in service to others. Following the two weeks, several seniors including Helen Pollock, DSHA ’25 (pictured), shared personal reflections on their experiences with their peers, faculty, and staff at the Vocare Welcome Back Assembly on March 13.
5 | BLACK HISTORY MONTH MASS
On February 13, students, faculty, and staff celebrated an all-school Mass in honor of Black History Month. The DSHA Sisters of Culture co-curricular helped organize the Mass, performed a praise dance before the liturgy, served as members of the DSHA Gospel Choir, wrote and read reflections on what Black History Month means to them, served as altar servers, and more. Fr. Peter Patrick Kimani presided over the special Mass. He encouraged the girls to lean into their differences and diversity, reminding those present that all are children of God created uniquely, and should celebrate every person as such by treating them with kindness. Pictured left to right: Sam Lee, DSHA ’25 ; Emily Grining, DSHA ’25 ; and Kalea Embry, DSHA ’25
6
| ALL IN THIS TOGETHER
Students, faculty, and staff, gathered for the last all-school assembly of the 2024-25 school year on May 13 in the Robert & Marie Hansen Family Fine Arts Theatre. To begin, Principal Dan Quesnell recognized several students for academic achievements, athletic awards, and more. Following, the Campus Ministry Student Officers summarized the school year noting the number of school Masses, service hours served, retreats held, and more. The yearbook co-curricular students awarded senior superlatives. Girls were given awards from “most likely to become president” and “most likely to cure cancer” to “most likely to be late to graduation.” The special assembly ended with each member of the class of 2025 taking the stage to perform a choreographed dance to High School Musical’s “We’re All in This Together.”
7 | SERVICE TEAM SPEAKER SERIES
The Service Team co-curricular members help plan, create, and implement service projects throughout the school year. This year, the team welcomed twelve guest speakers from various non-profits throughout the Milwaukee area to speak with girls about their organization’s mission, their personal career journeys, the importance of service, and more. The following non-profit organizations visited DSHA spring semester: Luther Manor; The Open Door Café at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist; Special Olympics Wisconsin; Catholic Ecology Center; Sojourner Family Peace Center; and Mr. Bob’s Under the Bridge. Pictured left to right: Mary Kouvoukliotis, DSHA ’25 ; Moira Clausen, DSHA ’25 ; Sr. Director of Sports for Special Olympics Wisconsin Danny Kuklinski; Harper Neldner, DSHA ’25 ; Annabelle Leh, DSHA ’25 ; and Ruby Scheuing, DSHA ’25
FINE ARTS | HIGHLIGHTS VISUAL ARTS
SCHOLASTIC ART AWARDS
As part of the AP Art course, Dashers had the opportunity to prepare pieces for submission to the Scholastic Art Awards to be juried in various art categories. These prestigious recognitions acknowledge excellence in the visual arts and encourage the artistic endeavors of young people throughout the state of Wisconsin. Two DSHA artists received Gold Key Awards with their works on display in the Milwaukee Art Museum from February 1–March 6.
AP ART EXHIBIT
Students enrolled in AP Art: 2D Design each created a portfolio of twenty original pieces around a central theme. Dashers created their pieces with the mediums of their choice including drawing, painting, film, ink, photography, and more. Throughout the month of May, seniors displayed their final work at the AP Art Exhibit in the DSHA Commons and the Fridl Family Foyer. The course is instructed by Fine Arts Department Chair & Visual Arts Faculty Nora Larscheid
I experimented with a monochromatic element to the shawl to give the illusion that the buildings depicted there were part of the woman’s outfit. It was a challenge, but I learned how to focus more on form instead of relying just on color.”
I learned a lot about taking creative liberties. I wanted to recreate a moment from an old, blurry photograph, and I was able to reimagine a lot of the small details and colors.”
1 | Anika Lenci, DSHA ’25 Gold Key Award —Painting entitled The Immigrant’s Threads
2 | Sophie Koehler, DSHA ’26 Gold Key Award —Painting entitled Peek
ANNUAL STAGE PLAY | THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG
From February 27–March 2, DSHA Theatre presented four stage play performances of The Play That Goes Wrong. A show-within-a-show, the performance was filled with physical comedy as the opening night of the Cornley Drama Society’s newest production of The Murder at Haversham Manor, goes utterly wrong. From breaking props and a collapsing set, to actors forgetting their lines, the opening was a hilarious disaster. The DSHA Stage Crew, with design and oversight led by DSHA Fine Arts Faculty and Theatre Producing Director Amanda Marsala , worked carefully to construct a set that could fall apart safely. The show was directed by DSHA Director of Theatre, Choir, and Liturgical Music Zachary Ziegler
It was exciting to see how the 'falling apart’ aspects of the set came together. It was one of my favorite performances (to work on) in a long time, and I've learned how to build and use tools better, as well as working with others. It takes more than one person to build a whole set, and I’ve grown in strength and courage to ask when I have questions while building.”
—Evelyn
Laforest, DSHA ’26
Keyshla Vega, DSHA ’25, receives Jerry Spirit Award
Congratulations to Vega who was given the Jerry Awards’ Spirit Award this spring after being nominated by her peers for demonstrating exceptional spirit, dedication, and teamwork during DSHA’s Fall Musical production of The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical. The Jerry Awards recognize and honor excellence in high school musical theatre in the state of Wisconsin.
1 | The cast and crew of The Play That Goes Wrong.
2 | Sarah Egbede, DSHA ’26 , as Rachel.
3 | Whitney Kelly, DSHA ’28 , as Sandra.
FINE ARTS | HIGHLIGHTS VOCAL MUSIC
SPRING CHORAL CONCERT
On May 2, the DSHA vocal music students performed in the Robert & Marie Hansen Family Fine Arts Theatre for the annual Spring Choral Concert. To open the show, Natalie Hartung, DSHA ’27 ; Madeline Lampe, DSHA ’27 ; Annabelle Leh, DSHA ’25 ; and Anna Pienkos, DSHA ’25 , performed their first rating/perfect score pieces from the Wisconsin School Music Association District Solo and Ensemble Festival. Following, the DSHA Concert Choir opened the show with “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” The Angelaires (pictured) then took the stage and performed some familiar favorites including “Livin’ on a Prayer,” “Jolene,” “Respect,” and more. Both choirs are directed by DSHA Director of Theatre, Choir, and Liturgical Music Zachary Ziegler
WSMA STATE SOLO AND ENSEMBLE FESTIVAL
During the first weekend in May, vocal music students who qualified at the Wisconsin School Music Association (WSMA) District Solo and Ensemble Festival performed at the WSMA State Festival. Seven individual Dashers received first ratings for the following categories:
MUSICAL THEATRE SOLO
Carolina Casper, DSHA ’28
Natalie Hartung, DSHA ’27
Madeline Lampe, DSHA ’27
Annabelle Leh, DSHA ’25
Mary Moran, DSHA ’26
Natalie Hartung, DSHA ’27
Whitney Kelly, DSHA ’28
Madeline Lampe, DSHA ’27
Annabelle Leh, DSHA ’25
Anna Pienkos, DSHA ’25
Performing at WSMA over the past few years has been so wonderful. Music is such an important part of my life, and WSMA has been a lovely opportunity for me to express my passion. It’s given me the opportunity to perform in a welcoming, talented community of musicians and connect with others through the beauty of song. Whether I am participating as a group or individually, WSMA also presents an opportunity to challenge myself—through musical theatre, classical pieces, or choreography—and better myself as a confident musician and individual.”
—Annabelle Leh, DSHA ’25 , pictured above
SOPRANO SOLO
HANDBELLPALOOZA SPRING BELLAROO
On May 5, the Varsity Handbells, and two sections of JV Handbells, performed the annual HanbellPalooza Spring Bellaroo. The groups featured classic songs such as “Over the Rainbow,” and “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” as well as some contemporary hits including “Rolling In the Deep.” The handbell groups also performed at various all-school Masses and assemblies as well as performing for the residents of Layton Terrace Senior Living Facility. Pictured left to right: Emma Yokes, DSHA ’28 ; Tess Hemsworth, DSHA ’28 ; and Brianna McEvilly, DSHA ’27
WSMA STATE SOLO AND ENSEMBLE FESTIVAL
During the first weekend in May, the DSHA Divine Strings received a first rating at the Wisconsin School Music Association State Solo and Ensemble Festival. Additionally, eight individual instrumentalists received first ratings at the festival in the following categories:
SPRING ORCHESTRA CONCERT
The DSHA Orchestra and Divine Strings performed in the Robert and Marie Hansen Family Fine Arts Theatre on May 12. The DSHA Orchestra opened the show and performed various selections from the Disney movie Encanto and excerpts from “The Planets” symphony by Gustav Holst. Following, the Divine Strings performed the “Lady Gaga Fugue” where musical styles collide, featuring a rendition of “Bad Romance.” The show ended with a tribute to ABBA.
CELLO SOLO
Carolina Islas, DSHA ’26*
Luisa Lopez Lara, DSHA ’27
Josephine Nolan, DSHA ’27
VIOLIN SOLO
Sophia Collins, DSHA ’26
Krystell Jara-Reynoso, DSHA ’27
In addition to receiving a 1st for their solos at the WSMA Sate
Solo and Ensemble Festival, Divine Strings Concertmistress
Violinist Yessica Rodriguez, DSHA ’25 (pictured above, left), and Principal Cellist Carolina Islas, DSHA ’26 (pictured above, right), were both nominated for an Exemplary Performance Certificate.
This means their judges cited their performances as among the best in their room, surpassing the highest standards. I consider Yessica and Carolina to be the best musicians I have had the pleasure of working with here at DSHA.”
—Instrumental Music Director Mark Eagon
Anna O’Brien, DSHA ’25
Yessica Rodriguez, DSHA ’25*
PIANO SOLO
Sophia Collins, DSHA ’26
JAZZ SAXOPHONE SOLO
Cecilia Barthel, DSHA ’25
VIOLIN DUET
Sophia Collins, DSHA ’26
* Nominated for Exemplary Performance Recognition
Greater Metro Conference Scholar Athletes
During the 2024-25 school year, 104 student-athletes across all 15 DSHA athletics’ offerings received the honor of Greater Metro Conference Scholar Athlete. To receive this recognition, the student-athlete must be a junior or senior and a varsity award winner with a 3.5 or above unweighted cumulative GPA.
Congratulations to these student-athletes!
BASKETBALL
Maddie Brown, DSHA ’26
Moira Clausen, DSHA ’25
Emily Frank, DSHA ’26
Mary Kouvoukliotis, DSHA ’25
Lily Lancaster, DSHA ’26
Mia Minessale, DSHA ’26
Meghan Quesnell, DSHA ’26
Marge Richburg, DSHA ’26
Addison Toth, DSHA ’26
Karinna Trotter, DSHA ’25
CROSS COUNTRY
CC Barthel, DSHA ’25
Karina Contreras, DSHA ’25
Mairin Daily, DSHA ’25
Anya Dempsey, DSHA ’25
Molly Hambrook, DSHA ’25
Ava Johnsen, DSHA ’26
Anika Lenci, DSHA ’25
Josie Marsho, DSHA ’25
Eliana Melendes, DSHA ’25
Gracie Olejniczak, DSHA ’25
Simone Steeno, DSHA ’25.
FIELD HOCKEY*
Lily Filmanowicz, DSHA ’25
Olivia Gerke, DSHA ’26
Caroline Grams, DSHA ’26
Ilse Kirchman-Hilander, DSHA ’25
Anne Klaus, DSHA ’25
Emily Lund, DSHA ’25
Maria Metz, DSHA ’26
Anna Sauer, DSHA ’25
Charlie Smukowski, DSHA ’25
Abriella Sparks, DSHA ’26
Addison Toth, DSHA ’26
Morgan Vosniak, DSHA ’25
Victoria Woelfel, DSHA ’26
Elsa Zielinski, DSHA ’26
GOLF
Rachel Morris, DSHA ’25
Ava Roesch, DSHA ’26
Hannah Strachota, DSHA ’25
GYMNASTICS
Dani Riemer, DSHA ’25
Mary Stith, DSHA ’26
ICE HOCKEY*
Caroline Cahill, DSHA ’26
LACROSSE
Caroline Cahill, DSHA ’26
Caroline Grams, DSHA ’26;
Avary Lenzen, DSHA ’25
Maria Metz, DSHA ’26
Gillian Renouard, DSHA ’25
Maeve Steger, DSHA ’25
Addison Toth, DSHA ’26
Lila Waltenberger, DSHA ’25
Elsa Zielinski, DSHA ’26
RUGBY*
Kate Ambrose, DSHA ’25
Sienna Ebo, DSHA ’25
Clare Foy, DSHA ’26
Paula Goetz, DSHA ’26
Erin Gonzales, DSHA ’26
Breanna Henry, DSHA ’25
Josie Afamefuna, DSHA ’26
Zion Lavoe, DSHA ’26
Molly McGown, DSHA ’26
Mia Minessale, DSHA ’26
Sonia Perkovich, DSHA ’26
Mary Rebholz, DSHA ’26
Marge Richburg, DSHA ’26
Maddie Savoie; DSHA ’26
Ruby Scheuing, DSHA ’25
Lauren Stuart, DSHA ’25
SOCCER
Mackenzie Caprez, DSHA ’25
Emily Cotey, DSHA ’25
Evie Eisenbrown, DSHA ’25
Lily Filmanowicz, DSHA ’25
Victoria Gonzalez, DSHA ’25
Grace Hodges, DSHA ’26
Tahlia Khan, DSHA ’25
Mary Kouvoukliotis, DSHA ’25
Mira Kraus, DSHA ’26
Mary McLaughlin, DSHA ’25
Harper Neldner, DSHA ’25
Meghan Quesnell, DSHA ’26
Alexandra Schneider, DSHA ’25
Mary Stith, DSHA ’26
SOFTBALL
Catherine Carnell, DSHA ’26
Charlie Smukowski, DSHA ’25
Jane Wermers, DSHA ’25
SKI*
Anne Klaus, DSHA ’25
Emily Peterson, DSHA ’26
SWIM & DIVE
Taryn Doyle, DSHA ’26
Rose Fleisch, DSHA ’26
Emma Lieb, DSHA ’25
Kendall Rummel, DSHA ’26
Julia Stein, DSHA ’25
Eleanor Wawrzyn, DSHA ’25
Saylor Wygert, DSHA ’26
TENNIS
Abby Frasher, DSHA ’25
Saylor Masters, DSHA ’25
Catherine Moews, DSHA ’26
Anna O’Brien, DSHA ’25
Elizabeth Regan, DSHA ’26
Cate Roberts, DSHA ’26
Claudia Schmidt, DSHA ’26
Alexandra Schneider, DSHA ’25
Megan Schraufnagel, DSHA ’25
Genevieve Stangl, DSHA ’26
Lizzie Stuckslager, DSHA ’26
Lila Waltenberger, DSHA ’25
TRACK & FIELD
Mairin Daily, DSHA ’25
Ella Dorrington, DSHA ’25
Lucy Elgersma, DSHA ’26
Olivia Gerke, DSHA ’26
Tirza Getty, DSHA ’26
Molly Hambrook, DSHA ’25
Ava Johnsen, DSHA ’26
Saylor Masters, DSHA ’25
Eliana Melendes, DSHA ’25
Jillian Phillips, DSHA ’25
Dani Riemer, DSHA ’25
Elena Sommer, DSHA ’26
Abriella Sparks, DSHA ’26
Simone Steeno, DSHA ’25
Ella Wesley, DSHA ’25
VOLLEYBALL
Maddie Brown, DSHA ’26
Abigail Buckner, DSHA ’26
Addison Buckner, DSHA ’26
Callie Carr, DSHA ’26
Jordan Czajkowski, DSHA ’25
Olivia Durst, DSHA ’25
Elise Hohenwalter, DSHA ’25
Kaitlyn Jones, DSHA ’26
Madison Quest, DSHA ’25
Elise VanHimbergen, DSHA ’25
*These sports compete outside of the Greater Metro Conference, though DSHA uses the same criteria to acknowledge these student-athletes.
Rugby finishes third place at national tournament.
The DSHA Rugby Varsity A-Side team continues to be a powerhouse and opened their spring season in April by winning the Midwest Championship Tournament after defeating two teams from Indiana and dominating Catholic Memorial High School in the final. The team then advanced to the national championship held in Cottage Grove, WI, where they secured third place. They outscored opponents 255-19 for the spring season.
10-time national championship winning Head Rugby Coach John “Chin” Klein has retired following this spring season. He was celebrated by the DSHA Rugby program at an end-of-season banquet. DSHA wishes Klein all the best following 27 successful years of service to Dasher Athletics!
Spring Season Record: 5-1
Schedule and Results:
Midwest Championship Tournament
April 26 | W, 58-0 vs. Carrol Chargers, Indiana
April 26 | W, 38-0 vs. Westside, Indiana
April 27 | W, 51-5 vs. Catholic Memorial, Wisconsin
National Championship Tournament
May 17 | W, 81-0 vs. Barbarians, Idaho
May 17 | L, 12-14 vs. Meridian, Idaho
May 18 | W, 15-0 vs. Catholic Memorial, Wisconsin
Coaches: John “Chin” Klein , Joe Kloiber , Genevieve Ruesch, DSHA ’17 , and Michael Walsh
The DSHA Rugby program helped me learn discipline, and it shaped me into a leader. It made me someone who would speak up and help my teammates rather than sit back and watch. I have grown so much more confident in my abilities and myself. It has meant everything to me these past four years, made me the person I am, and given me a big family. I’m very grateful for that experience.”
— Lauren Stuart, DSHA ’25
WINTER ATHLETICS
BASKETBALL
The DSHA Varsity Basketball team held the first home game of the season on November 22. They earned the right to host the WIAA Regional Quarter-Final game on February 25, when they defeated Fond du Lac 55-50. Their final game of the season was against #1-seeded Pewaukee in the regional semi-final.
Overall Record: 9-17
Greater Metro Conference Place : 5th
Notable Recognitions:
Second Team All-Conference | Maddie Brown, DSHA ’26 ; Karinna Trotter, DSHA ’25
Team Chaplains: Mary Kouvoukliotis, DSHA ’25 ; Mia Minessale, DSHA ’26
Coaches: Sean Garczynski and Joe Minessale
GYMNASTICS
This season, DSHA had six student-athletes compete on the DSHA Co-Op Gymnastics team with their season opening on December 11. To close their regular season on February 21, the team competed in the conference tournament at Menomonee Falls where they finished in 3rd place with a new high score of 128.375. Mary Stith, DSHA ’26 , placed 4th individually on the varsity beam. The team then competed in the WIAA Sectional on February 28 and finished in 7th place overall. Dani Riemer, DSHA ’25 ; Lydia Bell, DSHA ’28 ; and Stith, competed at sectionals.
Coaches: Cassandra Westover , Sammie Olson , Kaylee Gessay , and Mara Wells
ICE HOCKEY
Five Dashers were part of the University School of Milwaukee/DSHA Co-Op Ice Hockey Varsity team this year and opened their season in late November. On February 21, the team traveled to BlueLine Ice Center in Fond du Lac to begin post-season play. Their final game of the season was against the Fond du Lac Co-Op team in the WIAA Regional Semi-Final game.
Overall Record: 9-14-1
Eastern Shores Conference Place: 8th
Notable Recognitions:
Honorable Mention All-Conference | London Chase, DSHA ’25
Coach: Sarah Pearson
SKI & SNOWBOARD
The DSHA Varsity Ski team qualified to compete in the Wisconsin Alpine Racing Association State Championship on February 16 and 17 after their successful regular season, where they earned four 1st place finishes and two 2nd place finishes. Riley Doerr, DSHA ’26 ; Kate Bradford, DSHA ’27 ; Elizabeth Doneff, DSHA ’28 ; Anne Klaus, DSHA ’25 ; Emily Peterson, DSHA ’26 ; Sophie Walker, DSHA ’28 ; and Reagan Dunn, DSHA ’28 , represented the team at the state competition. The team finished in 4th place overall, led by Doerr finishing in 9th as an individual, Bradford in 19th, and Walker in 26th. Doerr and Bradford also qualified for the state team for Wisconsin, and Bradford competed in Nationals on March 11.
Additionally, Chloe Rummel, DSHA ’25 , competed at the WIARA State Snowboarding Championship meet in La Crosse on February 15. She placed 4th overall out of 43 girls racing in each event.
Midwest High School Ski Conference Place: 3rd
Notable Recognitions:
First Team All-Conference, First Team All-State, and National Team Members | Kate Bradford, DSHA ’27 ; Riley Doerr, DSHA ’26
Team Captains: Anne Klaus, DSHA ’25 ; Hannah Strachota, DSHA ’25 ; Nora Sullivan, DSHA ’25
Team Chaplain: Hannah Strachota, DSHA ’25
Coaches: Molly Ogden , Jonathan Davis , and Madalyn Trapp
SPRING ATHLETICS
SOCCER
The DSHA Varsity Soccer team opened their successful season on April 8 and were ranked #2 in the state of Wisconsin among D1 schools by April 25. In May, they were ranked as high #22 nationally by Soccer Wire. The team went undefeated in conference play, and advanced to the WIAA Sectional Final after defeating Germantown in the sectional semi-final 1-0. The Dashers fell to Arrowhead in the sectional-final after a hard-fought game with a final score of 1-0 to close their season. Long-time, Head Soccer Coach Kevin Roethe will move into the role of DSHA Athletics Director beginning in the 2025-26 school year. Congratulations to Roethe on 20 years of a multiple state-championship winning program!
Overall Record: 21-1-1
Greater Metro Conference Place: 1
Notable Recognitions:
United Soccer Coaches Assc. 1st Team All-American and All-Region + 1st Team All-Conference | Brailey Baxter, DSHA ’27 ; Avery Roethe, DSHA ’27
United Soccer Coaches Assc. All-Region + 1st Team All-Conference | Mackenzie Caprez, DSHA ’25 ; Lucy Colvin, DSHA ’27
1st Team All-Conference | Victoria Gonzalez, DSHA ’25 ; Sarah McElherne, DSHA ’28
Team Captains: Mackenzie Caprez, DSHA ’25 ; Emily Cotey, DSHA ’25 ; Evie Eisenbrown, DSHA ’25 ; Lily Filmanowicz, DSHA ’25 ; Victoria Gonzalez, DSHA ’25 ; Tahlia Khan, DSHA ’25 ; Mary Kouvoukliotis, DSHA ’25 ; Mary McLaughlin, DSHA ’25 ; Harper Neldner, DSHA ’25 ; Alexandra Schneider, DSHA ’25
TRACK & FIELD
After a competitive regular season, the DSHA Varsi ty Track & Field team competed in the Greater Metro Conference Indoor, Relay, and Outdoor Meets. Dani Riemer, DSHA ’25 , and Ava Johnsen, DSHA ’26 , qualified to compete in the WIAA State Track & Field Championship in La Crosse in June. At the championship, Riemer placed 4th in the triple jump, 6th in the long jump, and 11th in the 100m hurdles. Johnsen placed 15th in the 1600m run. Track & Field Assistant Coach John Danielson has retired following this spring season. Danielson coached distance runners, and was celebrated by the DSHA Track & Field program at an end-of-season banquet. DSHA wishes him all the best following 14 successful years of service to Dasher Athletics!
Greater Metro Conference Places:
Indoor Meet | 8th
Outdoor Meet | 6th
Relay Meet | 8th
Notable Recognitions:
Dani Riemer, DSHA ’25 | 1st Team: Long Jump* + ; Triple Jump*; 55m Low Hurdles*; 55m High Hurdles*; 100m High Hurdles + | 2nd Team: Triple Jump +
Coaches: Health and Fitness Faculty and Director of Fitness & Performance Brian Calhoun ; Specialized Studies & Mathematics Faculty Libby Wissing, DSHA ’10 ; John Danielson ; Dee McCain ; Abby Meidl ; and Grady Gosser
LACROSSE
The DSHA Varsity Lacrosse team had a successful regular season beginning on April 2. The team was ranked as high as 9th in state of Wisconsin by the Wisconsin Lacrosse Coaches Association. They finished as co-champions of the Greater Metro Conference and advanced to post-season play. The final game of the season was the regional semi-final against Muskego, where The Dashers fought hard for a final score of 12-16.
The DSHA Varsity Softball team opened their sea son on April 2 and saw strong play across all four grade levels. The team advanced to post-season play, where they defeated the Shorewood/Brown Deer/USM Co-Op team in the regional semi-finals. The girls fell to Cedarburg to end their season in the regional final.
Team Captains: Kyra Henke, DSHA ’25 ; Charlie Smukowski, DSHA ’25 ; Jane Wermers, DSHA ’25 ; Tessa Grogan, DSHA ’26
Coaches: Social Studies Faculty Tom Montgomery , Abby Stanisch , and Ashley Webber
MAKES ALL THE Your gift
$ 114,675 total raised ! 274 different donors
THANK YOU, DSHA COMMUNITY!
5 - 9 , 2025
50 alumnae classes represented from 1951 to 2020
During the week of May 5-9, 2025, the incredibly generous Dasher community raised over $114,000 in support of the DSHA Annual Fund, exceeding the $100,000 goal for first-ever week of giving at DSHA. With over 250 different donors during this week alone, the collective impact is a testament to the unwavering support of Dasher alumnae, families, faculty, staff, and friends.
FIVE DAYS OF GIVING, FIVE QUALITIES OF A GRADUATE
Each day during Dasher Days of Giving, DSHA students had an opportunity to reflect on one of the five qualities of graduate, sharing with donors the impact of their all-girls, Catholic, college-prep education. Scan the codes below to hear from Dashers.
FAITH FEATURE
The Salvatorian Sisters’ Service
The Sisters of the Divine Savior honor 29 recipients from the DSHA Class of 2025 for their extraordinary commitment to service.
by molly shea
Service is at the heart of the DSHA faith formation experience, and rooted in the mission and charisms of the Sisters of the Divine Savior (SDS), which includes: “as women of faith striving to be given over to our God and open to all peoples, we collaborate to promote justice and improve the quality of life in our world with a preferential option for the poor.” In turn, as a graduation requirement, students are called to four years of intentional service to people experiencing hunger, economic disadvantage, illness, isolation, or special needs. The hour requirements increase incrementally each year and culminate in DSHA’s capstone two-week service immersion project called Vocare, where seniors serve on-site in groups of two or three at various locations throughout Milwaukee.
For the past 36 years upon graduation, the Sisters present a Salvatorian Sisters’ Service Award (SSA) to seniors who have embodied their mission by consistently embracing the call to serve others beyond the graduation service requirement throughout their four years. This includes 140+ hours of service in addition to Vocare.
A Call to Action
“The mission of the Sisters is a call to action. It challenges our students to embrace all God’s people, especially those living in poverty and at the margins of society,”
says Principal Dan Quesnell . “The Salvatorian delegated responsibilities encourage the young women of DSHA to promote justice, improve the quality of life, embrace the need for a preferential option for the poor and vulnerable, to collaborate, and to steward resources responsibly.”
Director of Salvatorian Service during the 2024-25 school year, Katie Daily Pickart, PhD, DSHA ’84 , adds, “We are the only Salvatorian high school in America, and I am struck by how the Sisters trust in God’s plan for their order by sponsoring our young women to keep their mission going—even as their numbers in North America are getting smaller. Their sponsorship of our school and guidance over this program is the foundation to our students going out into the world to be the hands and feet of Jesus Christ.”
Additionally, Pickart adds that as students engage in Salvatorian service, yes, they grow in their faith, but they also grow as critical thinkers as they encounter social issues face-to-face. “Service encompasses all of the parts of who we are—and our girls feel unified to the greater whole of God’s creation when they are actively loving others.”
Connecting Students and Sisters
In accompaniment to the hour requirement, to be considered for the award, students answer a number of reflection questions that they then discuss in an
Service Award
interview format with one of the Sisters of the Divine Savior. Additionally, their parents are asked to reflect on the growth they have seen in their daughter due to her service experiences.
S. Carol Thresher, SDS, DS ’59 , participated in the interview process for the class of 2025 and has done so repeatedly over the years. She shares, “The Sisters who do the interviewing are always awed by the growth of these young women, by the work of Campus Ministry, and by the engagement of the parents. We step away from these conversations just awed with the work of God in the lives of our students, and in the lives of their parents, as well.”
to be the river
Regarding the growth of DSHA’s young women accepting the gospel call to serve, Thresher refers to the role of the Sisters as that of a flowing river—the path that takes students from one point to the next on their faith journey, in part by way of the Salvatorian mission. “It is kind of exciting to be the river that allows the kids to realize their growth. And the river for their parents to watch this happen, too.”
“Hearing from these young people (during the interview process) gives us hope in the Church,” she adds. “And it is more than a vague hope. It helps us realize that the sponsorship of DSHA continues to be something that is making a contribution to the lives of our youth and families, but even beyond that, to the greater Church. After we speak with these young people and hear from their parents, we are confident that no matter where they end up, they have taken steps into an adult faith. And we have had the pleasure to witness.”
SALVATORIAN SISTERS’ SERVICE AWARD REQUIREMENTS
f Before senior year: 120+ service hours
f Senior year:
Fall semester: 20+ service hours
Spring semester: Vocare service immersion
f Written service reflection by student and parent
f Student interview with a Sister of the Divine Savior
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE 2025 SALVATORIAN SISTERS’ SERVICE AWARD RECIPIENTS!
Cecilia Barthel | University of Minnesota, Mechanical Engineering
Charlotte Smukowski | UW Madison, Biomedical Engineering + Pre-Dentistry
Hannah Strachota | UW Madison, Biology
Keyshla Vega | UW Madison, Molecular Biology
Morgan Vosniak | University of Minnesota
Jane Wermers | University of Cincinnati, Nursing
Grace Wimmer | University of California
Santa Barbara, Environmental Studies
Krista Wintersberger | University of Georgia, Genetics
These students and their parents share parts of their Salvatorian Sisters’ Service Award reflections on the following page.
The Salvatorian Sisters’ Service Award (CONT.)
Jillian Phillips, DSHA ’25
UNIVERSITY OF NOTRE DAME Global Affairs
Primary Service Site: Kinship Community Food Center
What form of service has been most meaningful to you?
Volunteering at the (Kinship Community) farm, I worked with others to plant, tend, and harvest produce. At the pantry I welcomed people, stocked shelves, and spent time with kids while their parents shopped. Every day, we’d repeat the phrase ‘community of generosity’, because at Kinship everyone has something to give and something to receive. I think that is what has made my time so special. No matter what task I’m doing, I get to do it surrounded by examples of the diversity of God’s creation… sharing stories, lessons, and laughs. Kinship’s community is so unique and connected which is what has made service there so special.”
Parent Reflection | What has your daughter learned through her high school service experiences?
Jillian has learned that service organizations do not always need what she thinks are her greatest gifts and talents, but they need her to give, and therefore that is her greatest gift and talent... She has learned that service is not always fun, but it is always meaningful for those who want to look for meaning, so it is best to search… She has learned that there are people in great need, people who dedicate their lives to people in need, organizations helping people in need with great need for help, and that she herself can make a choice to be part of the helping.”
—Denise Phillips
Lucy Pickart, DSHA ’25
MARQUETTE UNIVERSITY Psychology
Primary Service Sites: Ascension SE Wisconsin Hospital—St. Joseph Campus, Madison Elementary, and St. Bakhita Catholic Worker House
What form of service has been most meaningful to you?
I have served the most at Madison Elementary in the after-school tutoring program called Magic Buddies. I met with two fifth graders named Josh and Judah to support and encourage their reading abilities. While addressing educational gaps in our community, I have formed friendships with Josh and Judah, reminding me that human interaction is at the core of all service. Spending time with them has been relational, and our growth is mutual. I aided their reading, and they taught me that being present to others and their situations makes my life more meaningful. They helped me to slow down, to listen, and to be joyful.”
Parent Reflection | What has your daughter learned through her high school service experiences?
Lucy’s service experience has been rich in variety, experience, and lessons. I’ve watched her grow from someone who thought ‘service’ was a one-way street to understanding that when we serve, we are served. Lucy has grown in empathy and appreciation for the struggles of others. She has come to appreciate how fortunate she is to be a member of our community, including DSHA. She has grown immensely in just about every way imaginable through her service experience… She has learned that she been graced by God with several gifts and that she is called to use those gifts to serve God’s kingdom.”
—Joe Pickart
Ashleygenesis Sanchez Hernandez,
DSHA ’25
DEPAUL UNIVERSITY
Entrepreneurship
Primary Service Site: St. Adalbert Church
What form of service has been most meaningful to you?
I was a catechist, youth group leader, and helped with faith formation activities for younger students at St. Adalbert. The connections I’ve made with the community, and the personal growth I’ve experienced have made this service especially important. Serving others has deepened my faith, allowing me to live out my beliefs and connect spirituality on a deeper level. Initially, I was unsure of how I could make a meaningful impact, but over time I’ve been called to stretch beyond my comfort zone. I’ve gained more confidence in leading, communicating, and being present for others. Service has helped me become more patient, understanding, and willing to take action even when it is tough.”
Parent Reflection | What has your daughter learned through her high school service experiences?
My daughter’s service experiences at DSHA have been transformative and deeply meaningful. She’s strengthened her faith by connecting with others and seeing how service and can be a reflection of her values. My daughter has discovered a deep sense of empathy and a natural ability to lead and inspire others. She has learned that she has a unique gift for listening and connecting with people from all walks of life, which has helped her build meaningful relationships. Her service has also revealed a talent for organizing and problem solving, allowing her to take on leadership roles with confidence.”
—Maria De Jesus Hernandez
Charlie Smukowski,
DSHA ’25
UW-MADISON Biomedical Engineering, Pre-Dentistry
Primary Service Site: The Lutheran Home
What form of service has been most meaningful to you?
The Lutheran Home elderly care facility holds a special place in my heart, as it was the place that taught me how reciprocal service is. Serving the elderly has been the most influential for my service journey simply because of how much joy and insight they have. They are often a forgotten group of people, not only in larger society, but even in their families. I know my perspective on service has changed; I now see service as an opportunity to give and receive love. I have grown into a much more confident young woman who is comfortable dealing with uncomfortable or challenging situations. I have gained perspective on the world, learning from those who are socioeconomically disadvantaged to those with disabilities. My eyes have been opened to the life experiences of others, and in turn, helped me become a more thoughtful person.”
Parent Reflection | What has your daughter learned through her high school service experiences?
I feel she recognizes that at different times, we all need the help of others, so when we have the chance to serve others in need, it creates a balance within ourselves. In multiple ways I think her service experiences have honed skills innate to her. I have seen her grow as a person who others gravitate towards for leadership. As I read her essays for college, I recognize that her professional drive is based in a service spirit. My belief is she will carry this spirit with her, allowing her to feel that balance in life through whatever challenge awaits.
—Joel Smukowski
DSHA
Co-Curriculars
PRESENT ON A NATIONAL SCALE
By Erin McCarville
As part of the deliberate and successful commitment to the development of the whole person intellectual, spiritual, physical, emotional, and social during the high school years co-curriculars are an integral part of the DSHA experience. With opportunities built into the school day and beyond for girls to explore their passions and interests, co-curricular groups at DSHA are intentionally meant to complement what students are learning in academic departments or have a close connection to the DSHA mission. This school year, multiple co-curriculars presented on a national stage.
The Benefits of Co-Curricular Involvement
f Positive benefits to your academic record.
f A greater sense of belonging to the school community.
f Practice personal and professional leadership development while gaining confidence in a safe space.
f Healthier, more balanced behaviors.
f Positive results in college and beyond.
f Enhanced development in life skills.
DSHA FORENSICS TEAM
Seven Dashers on the newly re-formed DSHA Forensics Team, whose members participate in competitive public speaking events, qualified for national tournaments this summer. Carolina Casper, DSHA ’28 ; Jessica Bradach, DSHA ’28 , Addie Anderson, DSHA ’27 ; Rachel Memory, DSHA ’26 ; and Josie Marsho, DSHA ’25 , competed in the National Catholic Forensics League in Chicago, while Karina Contreras, DSHA ’25 , and Stormy Walker, DSHA ’25 , competed in the National Speech and Debate Association (NSDA) in Des Moines, IA. Contreras is the first ever DSHA student to qualify for the tournament twice, while Walker is the first DSHA sophomore to qualify.
DSHA SMART TEAM
The DSHA SMART (Students Modeling a Research Topic) Team co-curricular presents their research findings annually at the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB) conference alongside of undergraduate and graduate students, as well research professionals. The global conference has over 2,500 attendees, and for over 100 years, has led to discoveries in molecular life sciences that drive medical advances. This year, the DSHA student research presentations were titled Facing Fentanyl: Analyzing μ-Opioid Receptor Activation in the Presence of Fentanyl and Carpe Diem: Exploring Mutations of Kir5.1 to Treat SUDEP and Prevent Seizures
DSHA/MUHS ROBOTICS TEAM
The consistently impressive DSHA/MUHS Hilltopper Robotics Team-1732 finished the regular season ranked #1 in the state of Wisconsin after winning the Wisconsin Regional, the Phantom Lakes Regional, and several Innovation in Control awards. They qualified to compete in the First Worlds Competition in Houston, TX, with only 5% of the top robotics teams in the world invited to compete.
Over the next three pages, hear from three Dashers who reflected on how it feels to represent their school on such a large scale, the preparation needed, the confidence built, the corresponding classroom preparation, and the career guidance it has given them.
Finding and Refining Her Voice FORENSICS TEAM
with Karina Contreras, DSHA ’25
In her freshman year, Karina Contreras, DSHA ’25 , never imagined she would qualify, let alone two years in a row, to compete in the NSDA Tournament. She also never saw herself willingly taking the stage during school events such as the 2024 and 2025 DSHA Multicultural Week all-school assemblies to perform original spoken word pieces. Looking back over the four years, she credits her forensics co-currciular with building her self-confidence, finding her voice, and discovering her passion for social justice.
“I was really reserved my freshman year, and the idea of talking to new people and making new friends was terrifying. I’ve grown tremendously through Forensics, and I am comfortable speaking to new people more than ever.”
During her junior and senior years, The Forensics team was growing bigger, as was her self-confidence, and she wanted to become a leader and encourage other girls like herself to participate and grow as she had.
“My freshman year, there were only six girls on the team. Now, there are over 30. We worked to grow the club and let girls know that, yes, forensics strengthens your public speaking skills, but it also helps your overall confidence as a person. It also gives you the chance to explore your areas of interest.”
Through forensics, Contreras discovered a love for social justice. Having the freedom to choose the topic to perform, she gravitated towards subjects such as workers’ rights, immigration, and more. She began encouraging the younger women on the team to lean into that freedom of choice and discover what they are passionate about.
“I became co-captain in my junior year and encouraged the younger girls to explore their passions and talk about something personal to them.” She continued, “It makes your piece so strong and is such a great opportunity to talk about something you love.”
Contreras plans to attend Marquette University in the fall. “My passion for social justice started through forensics, and it inspired me to want to study criminology in college.” She continued, “I hope to attend law school and become a defense attorney. I want to make
Pictured left to right, Contreras and Walker celebrate their qualifications to the 2025 National Speech and Debate Association Tournament.
sure people understand their rights.” She continued, “And forensics has definitely prepared me to present in a courtroom. I’m excited about that.”
As she prepared to present at nationals in June, Contreras practiced her piece with the team and Forensics Moderator Patrick Kay through sessions called coalition. During the National Speech and Debate Association competition in June, she competed in the category of Program Oral Interpretation, a type of interpretive reading that combines multiple works of literature that share a common theme or emotion, and interprets the material through oral presentation. With over 6,700 students competing from only 1,500 schools, Contreras was one of only 7% of students who qualified to compete two years in a row. Additionally, Stormy Walker, DSHA ’27 , who competed in the category of Informational Speech, was part of only 11% of sophomores who qualified and competed at the event. Also of celebratory note, in May, Josie Marsho, DSHA ’25 , finished within the top 8% of students participating in the category of Oral Interpretation of Literature at the National Catholic Forensics League competition.
Reflecting on her time at the national competition, Contreras stated, “I’m representing DSHA, of course, but I’m also representing all of Wisconsin.” She continued, “It’s pretty unbelievable. It’s amazing that I get to practice such an important skill on such a large scale, and even more powerful that all of these young people from all over the world come together to speak on topics that resonate with them.” She continued, “It’s powerful to enable young voices to be heard. Forensics has given me that.”
From Classroom Preparation to College Possibilities and Beyond SMART TEAM
with Katie Mark, DSHA ’25
Katie Mark, DSHA ’25 , has been part of the SMART (Students Modeling a Research Topic) Team for four years. The co-curricular is led by DSHA Science Department Chair and Faculty Stacey Strandberg , and allows students to work as research scientists for the year. Their work culminates in presenting their findings at the ASBMB global conference. Looking back, Mark credits the SMART Team with building her passion for STEM while setting her up for success in the DSHA classroom, college, and beyond.
When she attended the co-curricular fair as a freshman, she was interested in joining SMART Team right away. Mark stated, “I was interested in STEM in middle school, and knew this co-curricular would let me explore that passion. I loved seeing how much the students were involved in the research. I knew I could learn and do a lot in the co-curricular.”
However, when it came time to present their project at the ASBMB conference that year, Mark was uncertain if she wanted to go. “SMART Team was difficult work,” she said. “As a freshman, I wasn’t confident I fully understood the material, and often felt like I was drowning in information.” She was encouraged to go on the trip by her fellow team members, and the trip not only convinced her to stay in the co-curricular, but to become a leader.
“I gained so much confidence in my knowledge during that freshman year trip, and realized I learned so much more than I thought I did.” She explained, “Sophomore year, I started thinking about taking on a more serious role in the co-curricular. I had a passion for research, and wanted to ensure the project was taken seriously and that the girls had fun doing it.”
Mark became one of the main student presenters at the conference during her junior and senior years. “I loved being the person the attendees were asking hard questions of and challenging myself,” she said. “We are not presenting to non-scientists or another demographic that might not understand the terminology, but to people who deeply understand it, and that makes it exciting.”
She continued, “The conference is amazing because ASBMB definitely knows who we are. We show up in
our DSHA skirts, our SMART Team shirts, and we are beyond prepared. We represent DSHA every second of that conference, and it’s something we take seriously.”
The co-curricular also prepared Mark for the DSHA classroom along with research possibilities in college. She enrolled in Accelerated Biology her freshman year and took AP Biology her junior year. “Learning in SMART Team about what goes into a protein model helped so much for these classes. Being able to identify amino acids versus a gene…I was so prepared,” she said.
Looking forward to attending UW-Madison in the fall, Mark plans to study mechanical engineering and continue her involvement in research. “I want to be learning outside the traditional classroom, just like I did with SMART Team,” she explained. “We are published in a scientific journal because of this co-curricular. I know that will enhance my chances of being able to research in college and possibly beyond that. This co-curricular has, and will continue, to give me so many opportunities.”
Pictured front row center, Mark poses with the DSHA SMART Team at the ASBMB global conference in front of their research poster presentations.
with Victoria Woelfel, DSHA ’26 Influencing Career Paths DSHA MUHS HILLTOPPER ROBOTICS TEAM
Looking ahead to her senior year, Victoria Woelfel, DSHA ’26 , has dreams of becoming a mechanical engineer. Joining the DSHA/MUHS Hilltopper Robotics Team in her freshman year, the experience solidified her passion for STEM, and showed her she wants to be a model for other young women in STEM.
“My parents work in the STEM field,” Woelfel explained. “I knew I wanted to do a co-curricular in the area, and Isabella (Nielsen, DSHA ’22) , recommended Robotics to me.”
The team is comprised of several sub-teams, including mechanical, electrical, programming, design, spirit and communications, and strategy. Woelfel was part of the spirit and communications sub-team during her freshman and sophomore years. She also joined the mechanical sub-team her freshman year, and then became the sub-team leader her junior year. The mechanical team works to build and refine the bones of the robot while working with large drivetrains and small gearboxes to control movement. It was this role that showed Woelfel what she loved doing.
“We oversee the whole manufacturing process,” she explained. “As a sub-team leader, I started to lead the younger members of the team, and began teaching them how to build the bot while using the tools safely. I love it.”
She continued, “During robotics, you also work with other teams to set up what is called ‘alliances’ during the tournament. As a lead, I have to talk with other teams and work on solutions together. Robotics has obviously helped my critical thinking skills, but also my networking and social skills.” She explained, “I know so many people in the world of STEM now. And not just people in Wisconsin, but across the world. I wouldn’t have that otherwise.”
Woelfel is proud to stay on the mechanical sub-team in the 2025-26 school year as a senior and hopes to attend the Worlds Tournament again. “When we go to Worlds,” she continued, “it’s a huge accomplishment. We are combined with MUHS, yes, but us DSHA girls are representing women in STEM. It’s such an important visual for people, and has given me so much confidence in my skills and what I’m capable of.”
and Norah Rochford,
Similarly, Woelfel wants to be that STEM representative for women far beyond graduation from DSHA and college. She hopes to eventually become a mentor of the DSHA/MUHS Hilltopper Robotics team, becoming a leader and example for other young women. The team has several volunteer mentors, including DSHA 2023 Young Alumna of the Year Sandra Mejia Gerbacio, DSHA ’13 , and Stephanie Cavalco, DSHA ’16
Woelfel explained, “It’s been incredible to work with other women mentors and have their support. Robotics has been such an amazing experience for me, and I want to give that back to other young women.”
Pictured left to right, are members of The DSHA/MUHS Robotics Team: Victoria Woelfel, DSHA ’26; Liv Tucker, DSHA ’26; Feli Cervantes, DSHA ’26; Robotics Team Mentor Stephanie Cavalco, DSHA ’16;
DSHA ’26.
Each year upon graduation, the DSHA faculty recognize seniors in each academic department who have pursued excellence beyond the required course work. These seniors are demonstrated critical thinkers and leaders in their subject areas. They are adaptable, analytical problem solvers, each in pursuit of a deep understanding of the coursework at hand. They are innovative and creative students who take initiative, collaborate well with others, and lead with curiosity.
Congratulations to the DSHA Class of 2025 Academic Department Awardees!
“Megan exemplifies passion, enthusiasm, and appreciation in her English classes. She demonstrates strong comprehension and critical thinking skills, and a willingness to engage with diverse perspectives of a text. She has the courage to advance original ideas through calculated risks, and seeks mastery and understanding beyond a designated grade, as shown through thoughtful analysis, active participation, and effective speaking and writing.”
— English Department Faculty
SALVATORIAN BOOK AWARD HONOREE
Eliana Melendes | UW Madison, Political Science
“Eliana was given this honor as the graduating senior who, in her English classes, most embodies the mission and identity of Divine Savior Holy Angels High School. She is grounded in goodness and kindness; she is a young woman of faith, heart, and intellect; and she is determined accept the gospel call to live a life that will make a difference in the world.”
— English Department Faculty
Pictured L to R: Melendes and Schraufnagel
MATHEMATICS DEPARTMENT
OUTSTANDING SENIOR STUDENT
Paula Palacio-Enachi | UW Madison, Mechanical Engineering
“Over four years, Paula has demonstrated a commitment to excellence and a strong academic record in mathematics. She has a thorough grasp of a wide range of mathematical topics, perseveres in problem-solving, and advocates for herself and others during class discussions. She does all of this not because she has to, but because of her love of math.”
— Mathematics Department Faculty
SCIENCE DEPARTMENT
OUTSTANDING SENIOR STUDENTS
Katie Mark | UW Madison, Mechanical Engineering
Olivia Selthafner | College of the Holy Cross, Biology
“Both Katie and Olivia have demonstrated curiosity and enthusiasm for science in their leadership roles on the SMART (Students Modeling a Research Topic) Team and Science Olympiad co-currciulars, and they have distinguished themselves among their peers in their academic achievements in the most rigorous science courses offered at DSHA over the past four years.”
— Science Department Faculty
SOCIAL STUDIES DEPARTMENT
OUTSTANDING SENIOR STUDENT
Lauren Kabacinski | UW Madison, Political Science
“Lauren has engaged with course material in such a way as to inspire other students, even her teachers! She is also someone who can apply her social studies skills outside the classroom and shows a deep interest in our nation and our world.”
— Social Studies Department Faculty
Pictured L to R: Mark and Selthafner
“These students have completed the full course of study available to them in their particular language and have excelled in their language study. But more importantly, they are students who have exhibited enthusiasm for language learning and the broad range of cultures we study, who go the extra mile to seek out opportunities to use their language skills and to learn about world cultures outside the classroom. Some of the words their teachers used to describe them include fearless, passionate, all-in, and dedicated. They have demonstrated their love of language by participating in exchange and travel programs and taking leadership positions in language co-currciulars. Most of them plan to continue their study of language in college, study abroad and even major or minor in the language.”
— World Languages Department Faculty
THEOLOGY DEPARTMENT
THEOLOGICAL CURIOSITY AWARD
Alyssa Felser | University of Minnesota, Business Management
Annabelle Leh | University of Notre Dame, Biology
Avary Lenzen | UW Madison, Biology
Ruby Scheuing | UW Madison, Elementary Education
“Alyssa, Annabelle, Avary, and Ruby were each consistent, active members in their theology courses throughout high school. They asked questions that demonstrated advanced critical thinking skills; displayed a positive and curious disposition to the subject of theology in general, and to the views of others. They thoroughly completed assignments and respected all expectations of their theology courses, and they demonstrated a commitment to their faith by showing goodness and kindness in the world through their everyday interactions and involvement in co-curriculars, Campus Ministry, and beyond.”
— Theology Department Faculty
WORLD LANGUAGE DEPARTMENT
OUTSTANDING SENIOR STUDENTS
FRENCH VI: Emily Lund (5) | University of Iowa, Human Physiology & Psychology
Salma Chaoui (7) | University of Toronto, Statistics & Cognitive Science
FRENCH V: Jane Callanan (6) | Yale University, History
DUAL-CREDIT FRENCH 252: Karinna Trotter (4) | Oakland University, Journalism & Broadcast Media
LATIN IV: Anna Carter (1) | UW Madison, Psychology
SPANISH IV: Molly Hambrook (2) | University of San Diego, Psychology
AP SPANISH: Alexandra Schneider (3) | UW Madison, Biology
ADVANCED SPANISH LITERATURE:
Elizabeth Orta-Medina (8) | University of Michigan, Architecture
Pictured L to R: Scheuing, Felser, Lenzen, and Leh
FINE ARTS DEPARTMENT
FINE ARTS WOMAN OF THE YEAR
Delaney Scott | Loyola University—Chicago, Marketing
“Delaney exhibits talent and passion for the arts and has distinguished herself through her involvement in the visual arts, theatre, and music at DSHA. She approaches each discipline with passion and a strong work ethic. What sets her apart is her humility and thoughtfulness, as she serves DSHA in all aspects. She truly embodies the goodness and kindness.”
— Fine Arts Department Faculty
DRAMA DEDICATION AWARD
Sophie Wondrachek | Macalester College, English & Political Science
“Sophie has demonstrated extraordinary talent, enduring dedication to the theatre department and passion for performance. She has shown up, grown, and given her all with all of her heart, building a steady foundation of skill, energy, and leadership.”
— Director of Theatre, Choir, & Liturgical Music Zachary Ziegler
OUTSTANDING SENIOR INSTRUMENTALIST
Yessica Rodriguez | Marquette University, Business Administration
“In my opinion, the finest violinist I have ever worked with in my now 13 years at DSHA: precise rhythms, flawless intonation, and a sophisticated vibrato like you only hear from advanced college students and professionals. Not only is her playing full of grace and warmth, but so is she.”
— Director of Instrumental Music Mark Eagon
OUTSTANDING SENIOR VISUAL ARTIST
Zaharra Campbell | Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design, Fashion Design
“Zaharra represents the usual markers of talent, creativity, and hard work. She is curious, exhibits perseverance, and her works contain very personal expressions of feeling and the human condition. She is brave in sharing her narrative, but also permitting the viewer to make their own interpretation. Her generosity of expression is a lesson in courage.”
— Visual Arts Faculty Nora Larscheid and Tricia Ognar
OUTSTANDING SENIOR VOCALIST
Annabelle Leh | University of Notre Dame, Biology
“Vocal excellence isn’t just about hitting the right notes—it’s about growth, expression, and the courage to use your voice in ways you never thought possible. Annabelle has done exactly that. We’ve watched her blossom as both a singer and as a confident, compelling performer through her dedication, vulnerability, and heart. She leaves behind a legacy of musicality, artistry, and extraordinary growth.”
— Director of Theatre, Choir, & Liturgical Music Zachary Ziegler
CELEBRATING 37 YEARS
OF ATHLETIC DIRECTOR PEGGY SEEGERS-BRAUN
On July 16, DSHA honored the legacy, service, and retirement of longtime Athletic Director Peggy Seegers-Braun in a celebration at DSHA. Seegers-Braun was joined by family and friends of Dasher Athletics who celebrated her 41 years in education, 37 years of service to DSHA, and her nationally-recognized career.
President Katie Brown Konieczny, DSHA ’92, opened the program with remarks about Seegers-Braun, holding up seven sheets of paper containing a multitude of both state and national accolades, joking, “there is no way we could possibly honor the entirety of her achievements in the time allotted.” And yet was quick to point out that the brilliance of Seegers-Braun, and her impact on the student-athlete experience at DSHA, lives well beyond anything quantifiable.
“Peggy has been more than athletic excellence; fully rooted in our all-girls, Catholic mission and the mission of the Sisters of the Divine Savior,” Konieczny said. “She is both an excellent leader and a teammate. She has been a culture-setting example for our entire faculty and staff.”
Konieczny named a number of the mission-driven additions to the DSHA Athletic Department under her leadership.
“Peggy’s dream for our student-athletes has been for them to use their God-given talents to the fullest to develop into the young women they're meant to be. You will often hear her say that ‘we are developing a leader in every locker.’ And not just the captains, but that each young woman has the chance to develop and find her voice so she can live the gospel call to make a difference in the world.”
Some of her mission-driven program work has included:
Team service projects and Faith Friday/Thankful Thursday Masses;
Developing the DSHA Athletic Core Values which include: academic excellence, athletic excellence, service to others, team work, sportsmanship, and leadership;
Implementation of the Student Athletic Advisory Council;
NFHS professional development for coaches;
Student-athlete leadership training.
After some surprise speakers, Seegers-Braun closed with a speech full of thanks for her family, friends, coaches, student-athletes, and colleagues. She wrapped the evening with the following remarks—and of course, walked off stage to a well-deserved standing ovation:
“To end, I wanted to share a few words of wisdom to all of our DSHA community. Some things I’ve learned along the way in my 41 years in education, but I believe can be applied to everyone’s life:
Surround yourself with GREAT PEOPLE who are better than you. You will rise to the level of those you surround yourself with and they will push you to be the best version of yourself…
Great teams have great teammates—be a GREAT TEAMMATE. Put the needs of the team above your own; always pull in the same direction as your team and great things will happen. This applies to sports, but also to life—in your marriage, in your family, in your group of friends…
Be where your feet are—be present in what you are doing—not worried about what happened in the past, or what is going to happen in the future… That is the true gift of life.
Control the controllables—we all waste too much energy worrying about what we can’t control—just let it go.
Lastly—success is a CHOICE. CHOOSE to be successful. The small choices you make every day determine if you will be successful in life. Choose wisely.”
Scan to read Seegers-Braun’s full remarks.
DASHER ATHLETICS | BY-THE-NUMBERS Under the Leadership of Peggy Seegers-Braun
3
National Athletic Director of the Year Awards
2020 | NIAAA Distinguished Award National Winner
2022 | NFHS Citation Award National Winner
2024 | Leadership Playbook
National Private HS Athletic Administrator of Year
47
Wisconsin Team State Championships
Ten DSHA sports have won a team state championship under the leadership of Seegers-Braun, and 35 teams across 12 sports have finished as state-runners-up. Fittingly, the school’s 50th state title was earned in the fall of Seeger-Braun’s final year when the DSHA Varsity Volleyball team captured its third WIAA DI State Championship in a row.
Ranked as the
. 3
best athletic program for an all-girls’ school in the nation by Niche.
In 2025, named the
1ST
Green Bay Packers Athletic Director of the Year
In recognition of outstanding athletics leadership, the Packers, in conjunction with the WIAA and the NFL’s national InSideOut initiative, Seegers-Braun was honored as the inaugural recipient of this award for her track record as an athletics administrator, along with her inspiring leadership, abilities, and passion for her position.
1 of 4
schools nationwide to earn the NFHS Honor Roll: Level 3 certification in three distinct school years.
“Level 3 requires a school’s coaches to complete 15 courses from the NFHS Learning Center. It is very impressive, and we commend Peggy and DSHA for the commitment to professional development. Only 38 Level 3 Banners have been earned nationwide since the program launched in 2020. And DSHA has done it three times!”
— NFHS Director of Education Services Dan Schuster
10
National Championships
Between 2004-2025 the DSHA Varsity A-Side Rugby team earned ten national titles, one national runner-up, and six third place national finishes.
16
athletic offerings for girls—the most in the state of Wisconsin.
When Seegers-Braun started, DSHA offered basketball, cross country, soccer, softball, tennis, track & field, and volleyball. Over the years she prioritized the addition of the following sports: golf, gymnastics, field hockey, ice hockey, lacrosse, rugby, ski, and swim & dive. In the summer of 2025, flag football was added upon DSHA being chosen as the recipient of a start-up grant from the NFL and the Green Bay Packers.
Additionally, Seegers-Braun expanded athletic offerings from 14 teams in 1988 to 43 teams in 2025—including a number of non-cut sport offerings so every student has a chance to be a Dasher athlete.
continued >
A FAREWELL FIT FOR A CHAMPION!
AT SEEGERS-BRAUN’S RETIREMENT CELEBRATION, SHE WAS SURPRISED BY BOTH CURRENT AND FORMER STUDENT-ATHLETES AND COACHES WHO SPOKE ABOUT THE IMPACT SHE HAS HAD ON THEIR LIVES AND DASHER ATHLETICS.
Kevin Roethe
INCOMING DSHA ATHLETIC DIRECTOR
DSHA 5 x WIAA D1 STATE CHAMPIONSHIP VARSITY SOCCER HEAD COACH
I’ve been fortunate to witness Peggy’s leadership the past 20 years from the perspective of a coach and educator. I have watched her lead with integrity and empathy, as she advocates for our student-athletes and coaches with kindness. She has aligned the athletic department with the mission of the school and has instilled the qualities of a DSHA graduate through the development of our athletic core values. Peggy has built an athletic program that is highly regarded in the state and has changed the perception of athletics by building a strong culture at DSHA. I am grateful for the opportunity to continue to lead a department with a strong foundation and look forward to continuing the tradition of excellence for years to come.”
Caitie O’Brien Ratkowski, DSHA ’02
DASHER ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME
DSHA 4 x WIAA D1 STATE CHAMPIONSHIP VARSITY VOLLEYBALL HEAD COACH
She helped bring home (numerous) state championships, celebrated multiple Gatorade Players of the Year in more than one sport, and sent countless athletes off to compete at the collegiate level. Many of those former student-athletes have come back—now as coaches themselves—a full-circle moment that speaks volumes about the impact Peggy has made. But her legacy goes far beyond the trophies and titles. Peggy is the person you could always count on. Whether it was daily scheduling, hosting meetings, or her work with the Greater Metro Conference, she brought precision, care, and a remarkable ability to anticipate every challenge before it even happened. She always knew the answer—and if she didn’t, she figured it out fast.
She offered advice you could trust, saw the positive even in tough moments, and always thought about every side of the story. She brought perspective, calm, and balance, and somehow managed to make even the most chaotic situations feel manageable.
One of my favorite stories that captures who Peggy is, happened right after I was interviewed by Peter Miller from UW-Madison’s Sports Leadership Program. At the end of the meeting he said, ‘Wow, I would love to meet your athletic director—it sounds like she does so much for the athletic programs at DSHA.’ After talking more about Peggy, he made a trip to DSHA to award her with his Bell Cow Award. The Wisconsin Coaching Project identifies, honors, and learns from Bell Cows. These leaders change lives. They grow the good around them. I think that is a great description of Peggy—she definitely grows the good around her, and the work she has put into the athletic programs at DSHA is a good summary of all the hard work she has done.”
CHAMPION!
Dani Riemer, DSHA ’25
NIAAA SECTION IV SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT
WIAA SCHOLAR ATHLETE
PEGGY SEEGERS-BRAUN SPORTSWOMAN OF THE YEAR AWARD WINNER
I have known Mrs. Braun for four years, but she has shaped who I will be for the rest of my life… I was privileged to serve on the Student Athletic Advisory Council for three years, and in these three years I changed from just an athlete to a leader, advocate, teammate and collaborator. She has taught me and many others countless lessons that not only apply to sports, but apply to living a meaningful and fulfilling life. One that will always stick out to me is ‘great teams have great teammates.’ She taught us that being a great teammate doesn’t always mean being the loudest or the best, it means working hard and being there for each other… When you hold each other accountable, we find success in performance and team commitment…
She always encouraged doing team service projects. This was integral to the culture of each team because it took us out of the competitive setting and helped us to remember to care for those around us, while bringing us closer to each other.
She leads by example: always urging us to sit in the front during conferences and participate in training so we get the most out of our experiences. I also have never met anyone so beloved as her. Everywhere we traveled, athletic directors told us how lucky we were to have Mrs. Braun in our corner, and I could not agree with them more... Mrs. Braun wasn’t just in charge of the athletics department, she built a community of integrity, excellence, and resilience by being the hardworking, and incredibly caring person she is… Her legacy isn’t just in the numerous state and national championships, it’s in the athletes she has believed in and encouraged to lead. It is in the teams that know sportsmanship and integrity go hand in hand with success, and it is in the total athletic community who will continue to support each other the way Mrs. Braun supported us. Thank you for your guidance and your tireless dedication. You may be retiring, but your legacy is permanent. We love you and we will miss you. Enjoy every minute of retirement, you have earned it!”
Arike Ogunbowale, DSHA ’15
DASHER ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME
NCAA CHAMPION, UNIVERSITY OF NOTRE DAME
4 x WNBA ALL-STAR AND DALLAS WINGS GUARD
Congrats on retirement—I hope you have a lot of rest in retirement! You have done so much for DSHA and the whole basketball community in Wisconsin… You always celebrated my individual wins, and DSHA’s big wins. Any team—it didn’t matter—you were always there, always supporting. We really appreciate you (and so does) everybody at DSHA and (in the athletics community) in Wisconsin... I hope you have a lot of health, happiness, and more success in retirement. Thank you for everything and I hope you enjoy!”
CELEBRATING THE STEM CAREER OF
BY MOLLY SHEA
CONNIE FARROW
Farrow with her husband, Bill, at Glacier Bay National Park in Alaska. The Farrows have the goal to finish visiting each of the U.S. National Parks in their retirement.
Retiring Specialized Studies Department Chair and Mathematics
Faculty Connie Farrow is truly a woman of multitudes. She loves to solo camp, and has the lofty goal to finish visiting every U.S. National Park in her retirement. She loves to build Legos and robots for fun—sometimes in the woods. She is deeply committed to her Catholic faith, known at DSHA for sharing beautiful all-school prayers over the intercom. Both an athlete and an artist, she was a competitive gymnast in her youth and sings in the choir at Mass. She has taught courses in STEM at nearly every level—from grade school to college; and prior to teaching, she began her professional career as a quality engineer in the early 1980s for McDonnell Douglas Astronautics.
All that said, how lucky has DSHA been to have had its very own wonder woman sharing her real-world passion for STEM education, and permanently shaping the landscape of STEM opportunities for young women in Milwaukee?
STEM in the Real World
Farrow grew up in Richmond, VA with dreams of becoming a math teacher and gymnastics coach. Following high school, she pursued an undergraduate degree in industrial engineering at Purdue University, followed by a master’s degree from Marquette University in mechanical engineering.
In the early stages of her career as an engineer, she worked in astronautics while NASA’s Space Shuttle program was coming of age. Farrow served as a quality engineer, with most of her attention given to harpoon, peacekeeper, and cruise missiles. Her specific role was responsible for addressing problems as they would arise during the manufacturing process.
Notably, Farrow worked adjacent to McDonnell Douglas’s design and build of the aft propulsion units for NASA’s Space Shuttle program in its early stages. This engine unit allowed for shuttle orbit maneuvering and altitude control, beginning with the first space shuttle flight, Columbia in 1981.
“It was such a cool time to be in the industry, and such an inspiring place to work,” she shares of her time at McDonnell Douglas in St. Louis. Farrow describes a personal connection to the shuttle program—from the successes and triumphs in research, to the Challenger disaster in 1986. In her DSHA classroom, a Lego set was fastened to the whiteboard and featured four women who were pioneers and “firsts” at NASA—the perfect combination and iteration of Farrow’s personality, her lifelong passion for STEM, and a “show” to her students that a career for women in engineering, computer science, mathematics, and more, is theirs if they seek opportunity and put in the work.
Sharing Passion through Education
Following her time at McDonnell Douglas, Farrow moved to Milwaukee to work for WE Energies as a performance assurance specialist. She then began an 18-year stint teaching industrial engineering at Milwaukee School of Engineering University, finishing as an associate professor.
Desiring a change and a pull into Catholic education, she took her passion for STEM to St. Boniface School in Germantown, where her own children attended. For eight years, she taught middle school math, science, and computers.
This spring, Farrow (far left) took some of her STEM Scholars and Introduction to Engineering students on a visit to Milwaukee Tool, where Dashers met and heard from a panel of five female engineers who spoke about the importance of collaboration, learning from failure, and having mentors in the field.
Through her time at St. Boniface, she became aware of DSHA as a “top place for academics with a commitment to high standards,” as she says, and made the move toward college-prep STEM education in 2013.
Farrow was initially drawn to the all-girls Catholic environment—a love that continued to grow over her twelve years of teaching at DSHA. “It gives me a reason for doing what I do. It’s given me a purpose to show up and be a part of platforms for girls to access their whole selves and discover who God created them be,” she shares. “DHSA has offered girls a place of belonging as they discover their areas of passion.”
And Farrow has been instrumental in ideating, creating, and building these opportunities for young women at DSHA—with the methodical and problem-solving approach of a true engineer.
Expanding STEM through Computer Science
When Farrow started at DSHA, she entered as a teacher in the mathematics department, along with teaching Introduction to Engineering. At the time, the focus of STEM growth was rooted in business classes, namely marketing, accounting, and finance. Farrow approached Principal Dan
Quesnell about offering computer science.
“I knew how, and I loved programming, so I offered to teach it,” she shares. “But I had to learn JAVA, which is the language AP Computer Science A is taught in. So I took six courses; meanwhile, the AP course was approved and away we went.” DSHA added the course in 2017 and now offers two computer science courses; and notably, has earned recognition from the College Board multiple years, receiving the College Board Female Diversity in Computer Science Award.
Amy Teye-Yalley, DSHA ’25 , has taken both of Farrow’s computer science courses and will pursue this area of study at Marquette University in the fall—with a full-tuition scholarship—and a specialized interest in healthcare AI.
“Mrs. Farrow shows a lot of patience and cares that we really understand the material. She teaches us ways that professionals code in the computer science field. In class we are actually coding. Her classes have reinforced that this is what I want to pursue,” Teye-Yalley shares. “She has placed a big emphasis on career options for us in STEM, and it has given me the confidence that this is something I can do and be successful at.”
Farrow loved teaching her AP Computer Science girls and lights up as she speaks about them. “They are so fun. They take on a task and come to love the productive struggle,” she shares. “They will be working quietly, and all of a sudden you hear a ‘YES!’ from across the room.”
Specialized Studies
Farrow has a penchant for seeing her students discover these passions, while her own passion has been helping girls translate their love of STEM into a career-focused vision and confidence.
Additionally in Farrow’s first few years of teaching at DSHA, a shift started to take place within the DSHA curriculum toward preparing students for current technologies, and thus was born the Specialized Studies Department in 2017-18, the department that housed Computer Science. Farrow led the charge, becoming the department chair, and worked alongside Quesnell and other faculty to help define a department that could house classes of an interdisciplinary and college-preparatory nature along with a career focus. The department’s mission includes: “students learn to investigate human experience, venture into science, applied mathematics, technology, and business fields, and solve problems from a range of perspectives and disciplines.” It now houses a growing slot of STEM classes including Personal Finance, Advanced Economics, Statistics, AP Statistics, Introduction to Engineering, Computer Science, and AP Computer Science A, along with a number of other interdisciplinary courses where students experience that “learning is not compartmentalized but intersects across fields of knowledge and areas of study,” as the department's mission states.
STEM Scholars
In the summer of 2019, Farrow attended a professional development conference through the International Coalition of Girls’ Schools. She heard from a school where students received a special recognition after taking a series of courses. She knew DSHA had a strong STEM program, with class registration and co-curricular engagement increasing each year. And she was frustrated that members of the greater community did not understand this.
Coming home from the conference she started brainstorming and problem solving as an engineer would. “We wanted it to be intentional—a program that would both serve to recognize students for their coursework, and also have a career and co-curricular component,” Farrow shares of the initial dream of which she thought would appeal to “maybe a dozen students or so.”
With strong support and encouragement from the DSHA Administration, Farrow built a program unique to DSHA to offer young women a community with other STEM-interested students. The honors program includes small group meetings, professional growth opportunities to engage with women in STEM careers, and additional enrichment opportunities. Students complete an application for acceptance, and the program is grounded in the American Society for Engineering Education principles: using an engineering design approach, STEM Scholars was built for girls seeking to integrate and apply their knowledge of math and science in order to create technologies and solutions for real-world problems.
In the 2019-20 school year, DSHA STEM Scholars was introduced to students as an application-based offering for the 2020-21 school year. The program opened with 23
Pictured left to right is the all-female DSHA Mathematics Department: Department Chair Dawn Gardner; Farrow; Libby Wissing, DSHA ’10; Laura Clark, DSHA ’93; Rissie Lundberg, DSHA ’93; Emily Brown; and Lisa Curran
CELEBRATING RETIREMENT
Sometimes it’s joked that Connie is the math department’s walking encyclopedia. If you have a question about the calendar, a schedule, the process for submitting something, or you just want to admire the clean organization of all the possible information in the world, you go to Connie. If Connie doesn’t know the answer, no one will. She’s a teacher we admire for her dedication to every student, her commitment to the content, and her unrelenting pursuit of STEM excitement—she wants her students to feel the passion of mathematics.
THE DSHA MATHEMATICS DEPARTMENT
students. In one year it grew to 44. And entering into the 2025-26 school year, DSHA will have over 132 students enrolled in the honors program.
For the past two years, DSHA has begun tracking the intended college area/s of study and interest for graduating seniors. With these two graduating classes combined, 58% of a total of 320 graduates have expressed an interest in studying a traditional STEM field as their primary area of study.
“This tells me that the interest has always been there, and our students need someone to say ‘yes you can’ and give them an opportunity to see it and believe it for themselves,” she says. “This fall, it was really special for me to see the Niche (school review site) ranking—that we were given an A+ rank and named the best Catholic school for STEM in Milwaukee and one of the best STEM schools in the state of Wisconsin.”
An All-Female Mathematics Faculty
In addition to vitally shaping STEM education at DSHA, Farrow served as a dedicated member of the Mathematics Department since 2013 where she taught Algebra I, Advanced Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry, FST (Functions, Statistics, and Trigonometry), and Math 1100: College Algebra, a dual-college-credit class.
As she reflects on what she will miss most about teaching in her retirement Farrow names her colleagues. Simply put, “the math department is amazing,” she says as she tears up with gratitude. “Their level of professionalism, respect among one another, and their ability to always help me feel like what we were doing mattered—it made this experience so special. Problem-solving with other women has been my support system over the years.”
And they have felt the same admiration toward her; they collectively share:
“Sometimes it’s joked that Connie is the math department’s walking encyclopedia. If you have a question about the calendar, a schedule, the process for submitting something, or you just want to admire the clean organization of all the possible information in the world, you go to Connie. If Connie doesn’t know the answer, no one will. She’s a teacher we admire for her dedication to every student, her commitment to the content, and her unrelenting pursuit of STEM excitement—she wants her students to feel the passion of mathematics.”
In Retirement
As Farrow begins her retirement, she is most looking forward to time with her family, travel, and spending time outdoors. In her classroom at DSHA she had posters of a number of U.S. National Parks that she has visited with her husband, Bill. Camping is where she “feels closest to God. It’s worship to me,” she says. The mountains are her favorite, and she has enjoyed connecting with students over their own visits to these parks.
For the past 15 years, as soon as her school year would wrap, she took a solo camping trip or retreat experience. “It gave me a sense of independence—that ‘I can do this; I am strong and able to get through the tough and scary moments.’ And I come out feeling very confident.”
Much like the experience she has given to thousands of Dashers over the past twelve years.
A Great Teammate
Q&A WITH RETIRING ATHLETIC ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT MAUREEN STOWELL
What brought you to DSHA?
Maureen Stowell has served as the Athletic Administrative Assistant at DSHA for over a decade. She has worked with coaches to earn certifications, gathered necessary information for athletic registration, scheduled travel for teams, coordinated volunteers and officiants, and so much more. An integral member of the athletic department, she has helped lead and organize the student-athlete experience at DSHA. As she looks forward to retirement, she spoke about her love of the all-girls environment; the teamwork she has witnessed; working alongside long-time, award-winning Athletic Director Peggy Seegers-Braun; and more.
I was working as the Attendance and Athletics Secretary at a middle school in Cedarburg. I knew I loved working in the athletic sector, and a friend of mine knew DSHA was hiring for the Athletic Administrative Assistant as well as the Attendance Secretary. I actually applied for both positions, but really wanted the athletics role. I had been around sports my whole life. My dad coached football and track, and officiated for several sports, including baseball and football. I grew up with it and loved the camaraderie around sports, and I wanted to keep that in my role.
What did you love about working in an all-girls environment?
I love the leadership opportunities available to the girls. It is amazing to watch a freshman grow into a senior and become a captain or leader of a team. The maturity and growth that takes place over their four years here is so fun to watch. I also just love how friendly and welcoming they are. They often come to visit me in my office, and it’s one of the best parts of the job.
What did you love about working in a Catholic school?
I was raised Catholic and attended Catholic school for 12 years, so the environment is so familiar to me. It’s nice to have the option to pray, attend Mass, or receive or participate in a sacrament throughout the work day.
What have you learned working with Peggy Seegers-Braun all these years?
First and foremost, she’s a great Athletic Director. She knows her stuff and is on top of all the bylaws, rules, and regulations we need to follow in order to be successful. She’s incredibly organized and has really enhanced my time management skills. There are so many moving pieces to athletics—coaches, team dynamics, officials, referees, visiting teams, game workers—and she taught me how to really prioritize my days and time.
Of the DSHA Athletic core values of academic success, athletic excellence, teamwork, leadership, service, and sportsmanship, which one resonates with you the most?
Teamwork. I love watching the girls be good teammates to each other and treat each other with respect. It’s fun to watch them grow into better teammates as well. For example, I’ve seen some of them grow into the role of captain after having watched the other captains who came before them.
What has kept you here all of these years?
I love my job. The best part of my day is interacting with the students. It is so sweet that they not only tell me about their lives, but ask about mine as well. I have been invited to graduation parties, games, and state championships throughout the years, and forming that connection with them means so much to me. They are always the best part of any day. Additionally, I enjoy working with the coaches and getting them certified. I’m a people person, and anytime I get to interact with others is great.
Favorite memory of the last eleven years?
Any of the state championships. It’s so special to be at those events and watch the girls accomplish such a big goal.
What is your favorite non-athletic DSHA event?
I love the Lenten Student Auction. The girls get so excited to bid on items and contribute to a good cause. Each year, the front office and I donate a pizza party to the girls, and they go crazy for it. It’s gone for a lot of money over the last few years. We set them up in the Fridl Foyer and they just have a blast with it.
What are your plans for retirement?
Traveling, biking, and hiking. My husband and I are celebrating our 35th wedding anniversary and planning a trip to Greece. My two adult sons live in Indiana and Austin, and we plan on road tripping to visit them as well as visiting our other extended family members in Ohio and Indiana. We’re also planning a road trip out East! We’ll keep busy.
My favorite part of working with Maureen over the last eleven years has been seeing her grow in confidence and execution of the position. She is comfortable answering questions from coaches, students, parents, TSC members, officials, and other schools. She knows what has to be done and is proactive in getting the work done. To be successful in the athletic department, you have to be a great multitasker and total team player, and Maureen has done both very well. Great teams have great teammates, and Maureen has been a great teammate.”
—Retiring Athletic Director Peggy Seegers-Braun
It’s hard to put into words just how much Maureen has meant to the DSHA Athletic community, especially to our athletes and coaches. She wears many hats—whether it’s tracking down paperwork, organizing hotels and buses, ordering cakes for signing days, answering questions from students, parents, and officials or helping a panicked player who forgot part of her uniform on game day. There are so many things that she does behind the scenes to keep the athletic department running smoothly. She is also a huge supporter of our girls and very proud of all their successes. We're lucky to have had someone so invested in the accomplishments of the athletes and success of our athletic program.”
—Athletic Trainer Annie Cullen Olivares, DSHA ’04
CELEBRATING RETIREMENT + ALUMNAE FEATURE
WITH LONG-TIME
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Sally Gramling, DSHA ’ 79
ally Gramling, DSHA ’79, served as DSHA’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO) for over 20 years, celebrating her final day of work at DSHA on April 4, 2025. Her annual responsibilities included the management of multiple DSHA Board Committees, creation and oversight of the operating budget, and served as a member of the DSHA Administrative Senior Team. While she has been a staff member for decades, the DSHA community has been a part of her legacy for much longer. Her grandmother Laurene Mistele Gerlach, HA ’23, mother Marybeth Gerlach Gramling, HA ’49, and aunt Mary Jo Gramling Stein, HA ’57, all graduated from Holy Angels Academy; her sisters Laurene Gramling Lambach, DSHA ’76, and Jennifer Gramling Pratt, DSHA ’84, from DSHA; and another aunt Mary Kay Dietz Gerlach, DS ’60, from Divine Savior High School. Countless cousins also attended one of the three schools.
Why is DSHA a place that you’ve put your heart and soul into the last 20 years? I came to DSHA thinking it aligned with my goals, and I was attracted by what I knew about it from my time as a student. I was enjoying my time here, yet I left for a year or two and worked at another non-profit. I had worked for other NPOs before my time at DSHA as well, and I mistakenly assumed all NPOs would have a people-focused mission. My time away taught me that DSHA was different. Its mission was truly about people—its students. When the CFO job became available again a few short years later, I couldn’t wait to come back. I had learned so much during my time away, and I was excited to bring that knowledge back to DSHA and move the financial process forward.
While Sally enjoyed her time in high school, she did not imagine returning to work in the same building for most of her life and career. She first saw the advertisement for a VP of Finance position in the paper in 2003 and was instantly transported back to her high school years when she arrived at the building for the interview.
“It looked almost exactly the same walking down the hallway, it pulled me right back,” she shared. “It doesn’t look the same now! There have been so many new additions to the building.”
Now with over two decades spent as a senior staff member, Gramling is reflecting on her time at DSHA as she celebrates her retirement. She notes that she was especially grateful to work with two incredibly strong female leaders including Past President Ellen Bartel and President Katie Brown Konieczny, DSHA ’92. She recognizes DSHA as a special place, and she is proud to have helped contribute to the financial stability of the organization.
How has the mission to develop young women of faith, heart, and intellect influenced you in your decision-making as the Chief Financial Officer? Every tough decision is made through the lens of the mission and the lens of what is best for the students. For example, making sure we offer competitive rates for the faculty and staff ensures we have the best, most productive teachers in the building. Dedicating ourselves to providing financial aid is to make sure we can enroll the strongest student body possible and give girls the opportunity to receive this all-girls, college-prep, faith-based education. Making necessary additions to the building ensures we have the best space for girls to learn. The mission drives what we do, and it drives every financial decision we make.
As a legacy student, what does DSHA mean to you? My mom was so excited for me to come to school here. She made so many lasting friendships in her class, and had such a positive high school experience. Watching her excitement and getting to share in it with her was the most meaningful part.
Sally Gramling, DSHA ’79 (middle) with President Katie Brown Konieczny, DSHA ’92 (left) and Past DSHA President Ellen Bartel celebrate with Gramling at her retirement party at DSHA. Faculty, staff, board, and committee members came together to surprise and honor Gramling the week of her retirement.
gratitude for SALLY GRAMLING
Why do you think the all-girls environment is important? It allows girls to be who they really are. All the leadership opportunities here are for them, with them in mind. We truly encourage them to become leaders, communicators, critical thinkers, self-advocates, and women of faith.
What do you appreciate most about DSHA today? I’m impressed by the college-prep, academic program and the quality of it. The quality of education is astounding. I believe, in my time as a student, we had one dual-credit course. Now the girls have access to 30 AP and dual-credit courses. There is so much opportunity for them here. And the schools these girls are accepted into now— Georgetown, Yale, Notre Dame, Boston College— is incredible.
What was your favorite DSHA memory as a student? We took a field trip to the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago. During the trip, a group of us left the museum and took a cab over to the John Hancock building. We rode to the top and then came back to the museum. It was the one naughty thing I did, but it was so fun!
What was your favorite DSHA memory as a staff member? The auctions. I attended so many over the years. I’d bring my sisters with me, and we always had such a blast sitting there with donors, parents, and board members. Sharing that experience with my sisters and the various people in the room was so special. We always had the best times!
As a member of a legacy family, Sally’s love for this mission runs deep. That passion was evident in the care, dedication, and precision she brought to her work. Year after year, she expertly managed a budget filled with thousands of unique budget lines, making sure every decision was grounded in our mission. She led the business office, ensuring our financials consistently passed audit with no infractions. I’m deeply grateful for how she taught me and helped me grow in my understanding and confidence of the incredibly complex financial structure here at DSHA.”
—President Katie Brown Konieczny, DSHA ’92
Sally has truly been an asset throughout the years. On the Finance Committee, we are always monitoring, measuring, and adjusting, and we could always count on Sally to know where we stood. She was always thinking through how to best navigate the good, as well as the challenges, for the greatest benefit to DSHA.”
Sally is such a wonderful person and a professional in everything she does. Sally is a big reason DSHA has been so successful and has such a sound financial footing. She is a great manager and was constantly improving DSHA's systems and processes.”
—DSHA Board of Directors Treasurer Jacquie Fosset
—Past DSHA Board Member & Finance Committee Member Mike Hansen
TO THE CLASS OF 2025
Blessings & Congratulations
TO YOU ON YOUR GRADUATION! GRADUATION!
On Friday, May 23, the DSHA Class of 2025 was honored for the culmination of their high school education at the Marcus Performing Arts Center in the presence of family, friends, the Sisters of the Divine Savior, and the DSHA faculty, staff, and administration. The night before, graduates celebrated with a Baccalaureate Mass and a senior awards presentation. The following Wednesday, the newest alumnae of DSHA celebrated with a Graduate Dinner Dance.
Coco Chanel said, ‘Every woman needs to keep a little black dress in her wardrobe.’ I, Mary McLaughlin, say: All of us women here tonight, and all who have graduated before us, need to keep this little white dress in the wardrobe of our minds because this white dress symbolizes the support of hundreds of Dashers, both sitting beside you now and across the world. May the thought of this dress and the support group it symbolizes, always give you the confidence to chase your dreams, do amazing things, take on the world, and conquer it.”
CLASS OF 2025 VALEDICTORIAN
Mary McLaughlin
Now, here we are, sitting together for the last time, holding on to what’s left of this moment. But it’s not just time that’s slipping away, it’s also the version of ourselves who walked through those doors for the first time. That scared kid who didn’t speak up, who didn’t know where she belonged, starts to fade. And yet, she’s still with us, a reminder of how far we’ve come. Somewhere along the way, we traded fear for confidence, comfort for curiosity. And even though it didn’t always feel like it at the moment, every awkward conversation, late-night assignment, and unexpected laugh with someone new helped shape us.”
CLASS OF 2025 SPIRIT OF THE CLASS
Grace Wimmer
SENIOR CLASS PRAYER
The graduation ceremony closed with a prayer written by 2024-25 senior Campus Ministry Officers, pictured left to right; Eleanor Wawrzyn, Olivia Selthafner , Delaney Scott , Annabelle Leh , Harper Neldner , and Jane Wermers
Dear God… As we step forward into this new chapter, help us practice the values and qualities that DSHA has instilled in us. Help us to be leaders who serve with humility, inspire with courage, and uplift those around us. Help us to be women of faith, rooted in You and unafraid to live our beliefs. Help us to be strong communicators—clear, compassionate, and honest. Help us to be self-advocates, knowing our worth and standing firm in our convictions. Help us to be critical thinkers, ready to engage with the world thoughtfully and with purpose. Let us live boldly and lovingly, always striving to serve others and create a more just world.”
Scan
Scan
Scan to read full prayer.
to view Wimmer’s full speech.
to view McLaughlin’s full speech.
Class of 2025
COLLEGE MATRICULATION, SCHOLARSHIPS, AND RECOGNITIONS a class bythenumbers OF THE CLASS OF 2025 WAS ACCEPTED TO A HIGHLY SELECTIVE COLLEGE OR UNIVERSITY (SCHOOLS ACCEPTING 20% OF APPLICANTS OR LESS) AND/OR AN HONORS COLLEGE/PROGRAM.
99 % OF DSHA GRADUATES WILL GO ON TO A FOUR YEAR COLLEGE OR UNIVERSITY, WITH TWO GRADUATES HONORABLY ENLISTING IN THE MILITARY.
64 DIFFERENT COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES WILL BE ATTENDED BY 150 GRADUATES.
$ 24,799,632 IN REPORTED SCHOLARSHIP DOLLARS WERE AWARDED TO THE DSHA CLASS OF 2025 BY ACCEPTED COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES.
29 %
SCAN TO VIEW CLASS OF 2025 ACCEPTANCE LIST; NOTABLE ACCEPTANCES INCLUDE BOSTON COLLEGE, BUCKNELL UNIVERSITY, GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY, NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY, UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA—BERKLEY, AND MORE!
DSHA CLASS OF 2025 GRADUATES
% AWAY FROM HOME
43 grads will attend an out of state public college or university.
44 grads will attend one of the Universities of Wisconsin.
29 to UW Madison
5 to UW Milwaukee
4 to UW La Crosse
2 each to UW Platteville and UW Whitewater
1 each to UW Parkside and UW Stevens Point
17 are attending a non - UW BigTen School : Additional schools include :
8 to University of Minnesota
4 to University of Iowa
2 to University of Michigan
2 to Michigan State University
1 to Indiana University
3 to the University of Kansas
2 each to Miami University—Oxford and University of California Santa Barbara 19 additional schools across 16 states 29 %
4 to the University of Notre Dame
3 to Loyola University—Chicago
2 each to Ave Maria University, Creighton University, DePaul University, University of San Diego
23 grads will attend a Catholic University in Wisconsin.
22 to Marquette University 1 to Mount Mary University RING OUT AHOYA!
19 grads will attend a Catholic school out of state. 12 grads will attend a private ( non - Catholic ) school out of state.
1 each to College of the Holy Cross, Saint Louis University, St. Mary’s College, Villanova University
15.5 %
5 grads will attend a private ( non - Catholic ) school in Wisconsin.
DSHA CLASS OF 2025 COLLEGE
a closer look
STAR SCHOLARS | Paula Palacio-Enachi and Megan Schraufnagel were accepted into the prestigious UW Madison engineering STAR Scholarship program. In addition to a renewable academic scholarship, students engage with a network community of engineers throughout four years of college.
MARIAN SCHOLAR TRANSITIONS | The class of 2025 Marian Scholars each received their DSHA Certificate of Completion, and will continue their education through a transition program dedicated to special education students ages 18-21: Annabelle Largent at the Rising Star Transition Center in Minocqua, and Liliana Gomez through the West Allis-West Milwaukee School District.
THE ART OF MEDICINE | Anna O’Brien will participate in a highly selective honors program of aspiring physicians at the University of Alabama where she will earn a minor in Interdisciplinary Studies of Medicine. The cohort focuses on academics, leadership, community service, and research as they investigate big picture questions about the “art of medicine” during the undergraduate years.
HEADING TO THE IVIES | Congratulations to three Dashers who will head to the Ivy League this fall:
FARTHEST FROM HOME | Molly Hambrook and Lily Filmanowicz will both head to school over 2,000 miles from home to attend the University of San Diego to study psychology and finance, respectively.
DSHA TRAILBLAZERS | These Dashers will be the first to attend their respective schools since 2001.
Mackenzie Caprez | Stetson University, Health Sciences
Salma Chaoui | University of Toronto, Statistics and Cognitive Sciences
Maria Doneff | Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Aerospace Engineering
Meghan Fish | University of Oklahoma, Marketing
Helen Pollock | Trinity College (Hartford, CT), Economics and Math
Karinna Trotter | Oakland University, Journalism & Broadcast Media
Ella Wesley | William and Mary, English
Intended Areas of Undergraduate Study + interest
continued pursuit of passion
STUDENTS
OF STUDENTS
STUDYING STEM:
Areas of study include: pre-med, nursing, physical therapy, biomedical sciences, and more.
STUDENTS
Areas of study include: finance, economics, marketing, analytics, and more.
STUDENTS
Areas of study include: political science, communications, fine arts, and more.
Note, students who indicated an intention for more than one area of study are included in multiple sections.
FINE ARTS | The following students intend to pursue a concentrated study in a fine arts discipline; many admitted to their respective schools or programs through an audition or portfolio review process.
Eliana Bailey | UW Madison, Dance
Zaharra Campbell | Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design, Fashion Design
Babette Fransee | UW Milwaukee, Architecture
Abby Frasher | University of Kansas, Interior Architecture
Nina Kuehn | Butler University, Arts and Design
Elizabeth Orta-Medina | University of Michigan, Architecture
Peyton Washington | Ripon College, Global Health | Swimming
scholarships to celebrate
ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE SCHOLAR
Academic Excellence Scholarships are awarded to Wisconsin high school seniors who have the highest unweighted GPA in each high school throughout the state, and plan to attend a Wisconsin-based college or university.
Mary McLaughlin | UW Madison, Biomedical Engineering
MERCILE J. LEE SCHOLARSHIP
This full tuition scholarship program is intended to support the growth of academically talented and outstanding individuals from underrepresented groups. In addition to the scholarship, students participate in leadership development, mentorship opportunities, a support network, and more throughout the undergraduate years.
Sienna Ebo | UW Madison, Environmental Science
BURKE SCHOLARSHIP
This full tuition, room and board scholarship recognizes ten Wisconsin high school seniors who exhibit leadership, have demonstrated exceptional commitment to community, and aspire to pursue a career to benefit the public good.
This scholarship recognizes the academic achievements of high school seniors based on PSAT performance. Of the 22,000 high schools who enter the competition, less than one percent of seniors receive recognition as a finalist.
Anna O’Brien | University of Alabama, Biology
Delaney Scott | Loyola University—Chicago, Marketing
URBAN SCHOLARS PROGRAM
This full tuition scholarship recognizes academ ically promising students from Milwaukee-area high schools, and is awarded to only a select few MU students in each incoming freshman class.
This half-tuition scholarship is awarded to one faculty-nominated student from each BVM high school in the U.S. (Holy Angels Academy was a BVM-sponsored school prior to merging with Divine Savior High School in 1970.)
Maia Witt | Loyola University—Chicago, Nursing
ALL IN MILWAUKEE SCHOLARSHIP
High potential, diverse recipients from Milwaukee receive both tuition scholarship and advisory support through this program to graduate college, build purposeful careers, and transform the greater Milwaukee community.
DSHA AWARDS of EXCELLENCE IN ACADEMICs, LEADERSHIP, and SPIRIT
Mary McLaughlin | UW Madison, Biomedical Engineering
Valedictorian | Presented to the senior with the highest GPA in the class.
Grace Wimmer | UC Santa Barbara, Environmental Studies
Spirit of the Class* | Senior chosen to represent the qualities of her class with a speech at graduation.
Lucy Pickart | Marquette University, Psychology
Mardi Gladson Award* | Senior chosen as inclusive and unifying through her involvement in school co-curriculars and activities.
Aubrey Melvin | University of Michigan, Economics
Salutatorian | Presented to the senior with the second highest GPA in the class.
Margaret Strachota | UW Madison, Nursing
Dasher Leadership Award | Presented to the senior who shows exceptional effort and talent in support of co-curricular activities at DSHA.
Dani Reimer | UW Parkside, Criminal Justice
Peggy Seegers-Braun Sportswoman of the Year
*Peer determined award
CONGRATULATIONS, 2025
Medalists
and Families
The DSHA Medalist tradition dates back to 1921 when the first daughter of an alumna enrolled at Holy Angels Academy. Medalist graduates are members of a family that has had multiple generations of women graduate from Holy Angels Academy, Divine Savior High School, and/or Divine Savior Holy Angels High School.
COMMEMORATION OF GENERATIONS
Each fall, medalist families are invited to a special event where this DSHA family tradition is honored. At the luncheon, each student medalist receives a necklace and commemorative charms to celebrate the generations of DS, HA, and/or DSHA graduates in her family as follows:
Fall of Freshman Year
Each medalist receives a necklace chain and a DSHA seal charm.
Fall of Sophomore, Junior, and Senior Years
Each medalist receives one charm, starting with the charm that depicts the school of her closest relative: either DS, HA, or DSHA. Once all schools are represented, medalists receive a cross or a penguin charm as a filler.
Scan to view the DSHA Class of 2025 Medalist Ceremony held on May 22 following Baccalaureate Mass. Hear from Alumnae Director Danielle Jerominski Rabe, DSHA ’08, about this tradition at DSHA, DS, and HA. Additionally, medalist family sisters Katie Pfeil Dorrington, DSHA ’98, and Shelley Pfeil Clausen, DSHA ’91, along with their graduate daughters, Ella Dorrington, DSHA ’25, and Moira Clausen, DSHA ’25, share what the tradition has meant to their family over the years.
Eleanor Dorrington, DSHA ’25
Mother: Kathleen Pfeil Dorrington, DSHA ’98
Grandmother: Maureen Rice Dorrington, HA ’67
Grandmother: Mary Pat Klein Pfeil†, DS ’65
Great-Grandmother: Beverly Bolger Klein†, HA ’44
Great-Grandmother: Ruth Tague Rice†, HA ’32
Moira Clausen, DSHA ’25
Mother: Michelle Pfeil Clausen, DSHA ’91
Grandmother: Mary Pat Klein Pfeil†, DS ’65
Great-Grandmother: Beverly Bolger Klein†, HA ’44
Lucy Pickart, DSHA ’25
Emma Lieb, DSHA ’25
Mother: Jennifer Hayes Lieb, DSHA ’97
Grandmother: Maureen Quinlan Hayes, DSHA ’72
Great-Grandmother: Rosemary Eagle Quinlan†, HA ’46
Mother: Catherine Daily Pickart, DSHA ’84
Grandmother: Mary Woelfel Pickart†, HA ’50
Grandmother: Kathleen O’Brien Daily†, DS ’60
Anna Sauer, DSHA ’25
Mother: Elizabeth Fink Sauer, DSHA ’84
Grandmother: Ann Behling Fink, HA ’56
Great-Grandmother: Adelaide Boemer Behling†, HA ’26
Margaret Strachota, DSHA ’25
Grandmother: Kathleen Donahue Jennings, HA ’57
Grandmother: Janice Reuter Strachota, HA ’59
Great-Grandmother: Margaret Murphy Donahue†, HA ’25
BACCALAUREATE MASS & GRADUATION
Following Baccalaureate Mass, each medalist receives her final commemorative medal. One side depicts the DSHA seal while the other side lists the school and graduation years of herself, along with her alumna/e family members. Each graduating medalist also receives a rose charm for her necklace.
Anne Klaus, DSHA ’25
Mother: Ami Bonk, DSHA ’88
Grandmother: Judy Cavanaugh Bonk, DS ’62
Mya Brousseau, DSHA ’25
Mother: Angelique Gipp Brousseau, DSHA ’95
Avary Lenzen, DSHA ’25
Mother: Angela Holton Lenzen, DSHA ’98
Delaney Scott, DSHA ’25
Grandmother: Lois Fleischmann Scott, HA ’59
Mary Kouvoukliotis, DSHA ’25
Mother: Jennifer Horning Kouvoukliotis, DSHA ’91
Grandmother: Kathleen Murphy Horning†, HA ’52
Mackenzie Caprez, DSHA ’25
Grandmother: Patricia Brennan Caprez†, HA ’63
Josephine Marsho, DSHA ’25
Grandmother: Ann Brady Marsho, HA ’68
Marcella Steiner, DSHA ’25
Great-Grandmother: Alice Dittlof Pulvermacher†, HA ’46
Mila Catanese, DSHA ’25
Grandmother: Judith Walker Catanese, DS ’59
Mary McLaughlin, DSHA ’25
Mother: Laura Sanders McLaughlin, DSHA ’90
Lauren Stuart, DSHA ’25
Mother: Christine Jones Stuart, DSHA ’86
Samarah Lee, DSHA ’25 & Aziah Lee, DSHA ’25
Mother: Sharlene Lee, DSHA ’01
Babette Fransee, DSHA ’25
Mother: Elizabeth Herbst Fransee, DSHA ’00
Rachel Morris, DSHA ’25
Grandmother: Kathryn Lazynski Sanborn, DS ’67
Annika Wirostko, DSHA ’25
Grandmother: Margaret Rebholz Kelly, HA ’63
Sophia Quinn, DSHA ’25
Mother: Angela Gagliano Quinn, DSHA ’93
Grandmother: Frances Hopkins Quinn, HA ’63
Emiliana Grining, DSHA ’25
Mother: Amy Baehr Grining, DSHA ’94
Anna O’Brien, DSHA ’25
Grandmother: Mary Ann Thuemler Wigchers, DS ’58
Maia Witt, DSHA ’25
Mother: Christine DeBoer Witt, DSHA ’82
Annabelle Leh, DSHA ’25
Mother:
Anna Pienkos, DSHA ’25
Grandmother: Pienkos, DS ’58
Jane-Lorelie Cueto Leh, DSHA ’93
ALUMNAE NEWS
1 | On May 21, Grace Hecht, DSHA ’21 , presented a video essay, entitled “Gleaning Reflection," at the Centre National du Cinéma pavilion in the Cannes Marché, a special event during the Cannes Film Festival in Paris, France. She was one of two undergraduate students from Columbia University to ever be invited to present at the film festival.
2 | Last fall, Stephanie Caskey Jepsen, DSHA ’98 , started as the CEO of the International Migration Commission, Inc. based in Washington, D.C. The organization works to serve and protect uprooted people, including refugees, asylum seekers, internally displaced persons, victims of human trafficking, and more, regardless of their faith, race, ethnicity, or nationality.
3 | Habitat for Humanity in Charlotte, NC, recruited 2024 Jubilarian of the Year Toni Harrison Freeman, DSHA ’74 , out of retirement to assist with recent mergers, making it one of the five largest affiliates in the U.S. She now serves as the Senior VP of Operations, where she manages five offices, seven ReStores, and over 200 employees.
4 | Shannon Smyth Eisberner, DSHA ’05 , (left) was inducted into the 2025 Wisconsin Soccer Hall of Fame in November. She is a member of the DSHA Athletic Hall of Fame, helped the University of Louisville win its first-ever NCAA Championship, and played professionally in the top women’s league in Norway. She has served as the Director and Coach at North Shore United Soccer Club since 2015. Additionally, she serves as a founding board member of the Wisconsin Women’s Soccer Advisory Council, supporting and uplifting female players and coaches throughout the state.
5 | Joanne Karolzak Hyde, DSHA ’81 , was recognized for 40 years of child abuse prevention work with the Casa de los Niños agency where she currently serves as VP of Family Support and Education. The organization works to transform the lives of children and families exposed to trauma and adversity.
6 | In January, Alexandra Brousseau Smathers, DSHA ’07 , was appointed as the Family Court Commissioner for Kenosha County. In the role, Smathers assists with family law matters where she conducts hearings, issues orders, and handles cases assigned by the presiding judge.
7 | Jenn Spelman, DSHA ’09 , and her husband Dan Donovan, recently founded Musky Fool Fly Fishing Co. Originally opened as an online shop, the store has grown into a full-service fly shop and platform for the warmwater fly angler. Their mission is to protect the native trophy waters that Wisconsinites call home.
8 | Amanda Angel Edwards, DSHA ’96 , was awarded the Vision Keeper Recognition by the Mukwonago Area School District for going above and beyond in seeking innovative ways to meet the diverse needs of her students, demonstrating unwavering commitment, collaboration, and a passion for continuous learning.
9 | Two DSHA families were honored this spring at the 2025 Breakthrough T1D (type 1 diabetes) Wisconsin Gala, raising over 2 million dollars. The organization’s mission is: “Accelerating life-changing breakthroughs to cure, prevent, and treat type 1 diabetes and its complications.” At the gala, sisters Maggie Frederick Turk, DSHA ’06 , and Claire Frederick Naughton, DSHA ’10 , along with their mother Deborah Fink Frederick, DSHA ’79 , and family were named Milwaukee’s Honoree Family. Additionally, Caitlin Wallach Kaeppler, DSHA ’04, M.D. and her family were recognized as the Fund a Cure Family. Turk was diagnosed with T1D at age two; she served as a diabetes nurse educator for a number of years, and is now an insulin pump representative for Tandem Diabetes. She reunited with Kaeppler, her former Dasher Swim & Dive teammate, a couple of years ago when she was teaching an insulin pump class for Kaeppler and her daughter, Nora, who was also diagnosed with T1D around age 2. Kaeppler, who spent a decade as a hospitalist, has recently chosen to complete a fellowship in Pediatric Endocrinology to care for others with T1D. In addition to dedicating their careers to T1D, both Turk and Kaeppler plan to continue their involvement with Breakthrough T1D Wisconsin.
10 | Caitlyn O’Brien, DSHA ’22 , won the long jump in the NAIA Indoor Track & Field Championship in Gainesville, FL, competing for Ave Maria University in Florida, with a PR jump of 5.93m. This is the first national championship for Caitlyn and the first individual title for Ave Maria University. Additionally, her sister Jadin O’Brien, DSHA ’20 , secured second place in the NCAA Division 1 Heptathlon in June.
Alumnae
WHO HAVE RECENTLY PASSED:
GRADUATES FROM THE 1940 s
Marilyn Landgraf Hartmann, HA ’41
January 24, 2025
Joan Bonifas Phillips, HA ’46
April 4, 2025
Rosemary Quitzow Bendlin, HA ’48
March 27, 2025
Cecile Sherburne Smith, HA ’49
April 20, 2025
GRADUATES FROM THE 1950 s
Mary Kersten McWilliam, DS ’51
November 11, 2024
Eugenie Greenya Teter, HA ’52
March 15, 2024
Constance Hojnacki Janikowski, HA ’52
November 9, 2024
Mary Ellen McCarty, HA ’52
November 18, 2024
Elizabeth Maurer Altstadt, HA ’52
November 27, 2024
Gloria Lotz Peters, HA ’52
December 14, 2024
Mary Ann Hartwell Bink, DS ’52
April 25, 2025
Emily Kaiser Tschachler, DS ’52
May 24, 2025
Patricia Shields Casey, HA ’56
January 6, 2025
Marlene Harvancik Clark, DS ’56
March 18, 2025
Elizabeth Patterson Kauffman, DS ’56
April 12, 2025
Mary Kirby Wankowski, DS ’56
May 19, 2025
Patricia Clough Luther, DS ’57
June 22, 2024
S. Ann Harrington, BVM, HA ’57
December 18, 2024
Josette Moore Ruska, HA ’57
December 28, 2024
Jane Quick French, DS ’57
February 8, 2025
Mary Ann Marks Langenohl, HA ’58
August 30, 2025
Elaine Repinski Schroeder, DS ’58
April 22, 2025
GRADUATES FROM THE 1960 s
Diane Cadden Nicholas, DS ’63
February 18, 2025
Donna Mosgaller Sobrado, HA ’64
January 20, 2025
Mary Finnegan Ryan, HA ’65
November 23, 2024
GRADUATES FROM THE 1970 s
Cynthia Fridl Gallagher, DSHA ’71
January 11, 2025
Mary George Beaumier, DSHA ’72
February 14, 2025
Patricia Hoeft, DSHA ’75
May 7, 2025
Rosemary Saggio, DSHA ’77
May 10, 2025
GRADUATE FROM THE 1980 s
Margaret LoCoco Capper, DSHA ’82
April 9, 2025
ETERNAL REST GRANT UNTO THEM, O LORD, AND LET PERPETUAL LIGHT SHINE UPON THEM. MAY THEIR SOULS, AND THE SOULS OF ALL THE FAITHFUL DEPARTED, THROUGH THE MERCY OF GOD, REST IN PEACE.
Alumnae
OCTOBER 3 - 5
CELEBRATING JUBILARIAN ALUMNAE AND CLASSES ENDING IN 0 s AND 5 s !
Dashers, Dashers what’s your number!? 0 s AND 5 s — IT’S YOUR YEAR!
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 3
Student assembly, tours, and sandwich making service project with students at DSHA
Happy Hour at Zisters in Elm Grove
Join us for complementary cocktails and heavy hors d'oeuvres hosted by DSHA.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4
Milestone Class Reunion
Individual class reunion parties will be planned by class reps at various locations of choice around Milwaukee.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 5
Alumnae Mass
All alumnae and families are welcome!
41 st Annual Jubilee Brunch
Following Alumnae Weekend Mass, all alumnae from the HA, DS, and DSHA classes of 1975 and earlier are invited to Jubilee Brunch. The class of 1975 will be honored and welcomed into the Jubilarian community. Attendees will hear from President Katie Brown Konieczny, DSHA ’92 , and the Jubilarian of the Year Ann Bonness Angel, DS ’70
Meet your 2025 Alumnae of the Year!
These women will be honored on Friday, October 3 at a student assembly.
YOUNG ALUMNA OF THE YEAR
Betsy Stone, DSHA '10
Senior Counsel, Foley & Lardner LLP
ALUMNA OF THE YEAR
Kori Ashley, DSHA '05
Judge, Milwaukee Co. Circuit Court
JUBILARIAN OF THE YEAR
Ann Bonness Angel, DS '70
Writer + Professor Emerita, Mt. Mary University
All reunion year and Jubilarian alumnae will receive a formal invitation via email.
If you are interested in helping coordinate communications for your class, please contact Alumnae Director Danielle Jerominski Rabe, DSHA ’08 , at RabeD@dsha.info or 414.616.2808
Visit dsha.info/alumnaeweekend2025 to learn more!
SPONSORED BY THE SIS TERS OF THE DIVINE SAVIOR
4257 Nor th 100th Street | Milwau ke e, WI 53222
4257 Nor th 100th Street | Milwau ke e, WI 53222
A ll Girls Makes All the Difference | dsha.info
A ll Girls Mak es All the Diff erence | dsha.info
DSHA Class of 2029!
In February, accepted incoming freshman students and their parents came together for the first time as a whole class. Girls met their teachers, counselors, and current students, and heard from Josie Marsho, DSHA ’25 , about how her four years at DSHA helped her grow in confidence, faith, and sisterhood. This fall, DSHA will welcome this incredible group of young women to the Dasher sisterhood!
Scan to view Marsho’s message to the class of 2029.
