The Word Magazine | Spring Semester 2023

D

D

ivine

ivine

S

S

avior

avior

H oly Angels H igh School

H oly Angels H igh School

SPONSORED BY THE SIS TERS OF THE DIVINE SAVIOR

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 Mak es All the Diff erence | dsha.info

A ll Girls Mak es All the Diff erence | dsha.info

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.

2022-23 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

John McDermott, Chair Rockwell Automation, retired

Maureen Carney Goetz, DSHA ’96, Vice Chair Colliers

Derek Mosley, JD, Secretary Marquette University Law School

Mike Hodan, Treasurer Wells Fargo Advisors

S. Grace Mary Croft, SDS, DS ’56, Sponsorship Coordinator Sisters of the Divine Savior

Frank Probst, Sponsorship Coordinator Sisters of the Divine Savior

Katie Konieczny, DSHA ’92, President and Ex-Officio Divine Savior Holy Angels High School

MEMBERS

Juan Banda | Froedtert Hospital Froedtert Health

Dr. Kathleen Cepelka | Retired, Archdiocese of Milwaukee

Craigh Cepukenas | Artisan Partners

Cristy Garcia-Thomas | Aurora Health Care, Inc.

Molly Hegarty Kanter, JD | State of Wisconsin—Department of Workforce Development

Brigitte Hyler Richerson | Advocate Aurora Health

Mary Jo Layden | Community Volunteer

Aaron Lipski | City of Milwaukee Fire Department

Gerry Schwarz | Kickhaefer Manufacturing Co.

Moe Tarantino | Community Volunteer

S. Carol Thresher, SDS, DS ’59 | Sisters of the Divine Savior

ADMINISTRATION

Katie Konieczny, DSHA ’92, President

Dan Quesnell, Principal

Sally Gramling, DSHA ’79, Chief Financial Officer

STRATEGIC COUNCIL

Cynthia Blaze, Director of DEI

Rachel Fredricks, Dean of Student Affairs

Claire Hartley, VP of HR and In-House Counsel

Matt Johnson, Sr. Director of Development

Heather Mansfield, PhD, Academic Dean

Stephanie Monson, Director of Campus Ministry

Maria Schram, Director of Students Services

Peggy Seegers-Braun, Athletic Director

Molly Shea, VP of Marketing & Communications

John White, Director of Technology

Scan to view the 2023-24 DSHA Board of Directors.

THE POWER OF IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCES

For over 30 years, DSHA students have had the opportunity to participate in a French immersion trip led by DSHA World Languages Faculty Madame Eileen Gleeson . The immersive program begins in the fall each year when exchange students arrive from Lycée St. Jean, a co-ed Catholic School in Limoges, France. The exchange students live with DSHA host families; the female students attend DSHA while the male students attend Marquette University High School. Each exchange student at DSHA receives a personalized class schedule based on her interests. In the spring, Dashers in the program travel to France and stay with their respective host families.

The program, which began in 1990, was put on hold from the spring of 2020 until the spring of 2023 due to COVID-19. The trip returned this year as 31 DSHA students traveled to France for two weeks in March and April over Easter break. While there, Dashers truly experienced life as a French high school student. The girls attended classes at Lycée St. Jean and spoke French with their exchange partner, host families, classmates, and teachers. While there, they also explored various historical sites including le Château de Chambord, le Château de Hautefort, and le Château de Versaille. Dashers also took a tour of the Eiffel Tower, experienced a boat ride down the Seine River, and visited the Louvre Museum. While in France, students were required to write ten journal entries detailing their experience of the trip along with noting new vocabulary words they encountered. Out of the ten required journal entries, nine were written in French, and the tenth in English.

“

This exchange program gave me the opportunity to live like a French high school student. It is important to offer an experience like this because many students will see different perspectives, and students can enrich themselves by taking on a new culture. I’m also grateful because the experience helped me enhance my French skills and deepened my love for the language. I have since taken the serious consideration of minoring in French and continuing to improve on the language.”

Yaleska Sosa-Azcarraga, DSHA ’23

“It is so special to be at DSHA. I feel like I have a family there and have met so many new friends. I love my peer mentors like family and I love my teachers. My favorite activities have been theatre ( Freaky Friday , Puffs , and Sister Act ); Best Buddies, Goodness & Kindness team, and being the manager for the soccer team. My favorite class was Earth Science with Mr. (Science Faculty Kevin) Roethe and (peer mentor) Addie Leffler, DSHA ’24 , because they love science and help set up labs for me. Next year I’m going to Concordia and I will be excited to walk in the door and not scared because DSHA showed me how to have a family at school.”

“Maggie is such a kind person and loves showing others how much she cares about them. I got to be one of her peer mentors and spent her Wellness Hour with her every day. It has been such a fun time to be together and we have been able to connect with so many people throughout the building. We were also partnered together for dancing in two musicals, Freaky Friday and Sister Act , and got to spend time together as friends outside of school. I have become a more welcoming and loving person because of Maggie—I’m so grateful for her and our time together.”

— Audrey Watzka, DSHA ’23

“In the two years Maggie spent with us at DSHA, we saw her grow into the beautiful woman that she has become. Our Marian Scholars and their peer mentors have blessed the DSHA community with the experience of inclusivity in a way that we would not have without the program. These young women, and the support of our faculty, staff, administration, parents, and board of directors, have allowed us to be a more whole and complete Catholic community.”

— Director of Marian Scholars

Mary Anderson

The DSHA Class of 2023 was the first to graduate with a Marian Scholar. The Marian Scholars Program at DSHA is a student-centered, inclusive education program for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Maggie Sweeney, DSHA ’23 , has been a Dasher since the fall of 2021, and on May 26, she walked with her peers to receive a DSHA Certificate of Completion. In the fall of 2023 she will attend Concordia University’s AbleLight College program.

Sweeney is pictured second from right with three of her peer mentors (left to right) at graduation: Eva-Marie Moss, DSHA ’23; Sarah Daniels, DSHA ’23; and Audrey Watzka, DSHA ’23

— Marian Scholar Maggie Sweeney, DSHA ’23

This spring, Quinn Jennings, DSHA ’23 , was awarded with state and national recognition in multiple categories by the Scholastic Writing Awards. These awards honor students with exceptional literary talent and gives them opportunities for recognition, exhibition, publication, and scholarships. Jennings received the prestigious Gold Key in the critical essay and poetry categories. Her critical essay A Mocking Yet Honest Reflection and her poem Recollections of Home will advance to the national competition where she will compete for the distinction of National Medalist. Jennings also received a Silver Key in the writing portfolio category, and honorable mentions in the categories of humor, personal essay and memoir, critical essay, and flash fiction. This fall, Jennings will attend the University of Southern California School of Cinematic Arts in the Divisions of Cinema and Media Studies and Writing for Screen.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Letter from the President & Principal Special Events | Highlights

Dasher Life | Highlights

Fine Arts | Highlights

Athletics | Championships and Highlights

Donor Q&A | Lauren Maddox, DSHA ’82

Faith Feature | Present to the Spirit at Optional Junior Retreat

Intellect Feature | AP Courses and the DSHA Difference

Heart Feature | Civil Rights Pilgrimage to Washington, D.C.

Class of 2023 | Graduation

Class of 2023 | College Matriculation, Awards, & Recognitions

Class of 2023 | Alumnae Medalist Families

Alumnae Feature | Career Day with Kristin Branch, DSHA ’92 ; Carla La Valle Olle, HA ’60 ; Rachel Fronk Idso, DSHA ’02 , and more!

Alumnae

My English classes and teachers have challenged me to consider every possibility when writing and to never shy away from an idea because it seems too complex or intimidating to tackle. I am very grateful to receive recognition from such a prestigious program, and I feel very proud of the work that has managed to connect with other people.”

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:

Senior Director of Development Matt Johnson; Educational Database Coordinator Rachel Kirsenlohr; President Katie Konieczny, DSHA ’92; Principal Dan Quesnell; Alumnae Director Danielle Jerominski Rabe, DSHA ’08; Karinna Trotter, DSHA ’25; Sylvia Halaiko, DSHA ’25; Azzie Lee, DSHA ’25; Sam Lee, DSHA ’25

— Quinn Jennings, DSHA ’23

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT & PRINCIPAL

Dear DSHA Community,

If you have interacted with DSHA this year, you have probably heard us reiterate our scriptural theme for the year from Psalm 133:1: How good and kind it is when God’s people live together in unity! These words hang in every classroom, they begin every Parent eNews, and they have permeated each part of the DSHA student experience this year.

In line with our theme, this semester our faculty, staff, and administration have been intentionally seeking out opportunities to live out one of the specific core values of the Sisters of the Divine Savior— collaboration . It is through collaboration among our community that we get to experience true unity as described in the Psalm. We have seen this play out in the classroom, in student activities and experiences, and among our faculty and staff all semester.

Collaboration > College Readiness Behind-the-Scenes

As a college-prep high school, there are some obvious things that our outstanding faculty do each and every day—teaching and guiding girls in their class periods through their respective subject matters. This is the core of where our outstanding college-preparation takes place. But this is just a piece. It is the behind-the-scenes work of our teachers—which often goes under-noticed—that makes DSHA such a special educational environment for our girls.

Our teachers create classroom environments where young women can take risks in a safe space and develop their voice, while encouraging them to push themselves to experience their potential without fear of embarrassment or failure. Our academic departments collaborate with Student Services and Campus Ministry to ensure the needs of each student are met, whether through school wide programs or individual outreach. Our teachers meet with students in ALPHA (Academic Learning Place for Higher Achievement) Center each period of every day. Our teachers say “yes” when girls need extra help before and after school, during lunch, or study hall hours. They write countless letters of recommendation for scholarships and college admissions.

The list is truly endless. Because of our faculty’s dedication to the academic success of our girls, Dashers learn how to seek and navigate resources that guide them to achieve; our girls are significantly outperforming national averages on AP tests (pg. 27); and perhaps most importantly, they are coming back from college saying they feel so much more prepared than their peers. The collaborative nature of our teaching faculty is significantly impacting the lives of our students. We are so grateful for this incredible group of dedicated women and men.

Collaboration > Qualities of DSHA Graduate

Our Dashers have had a remarkable spring semester—both in and outside of the classroom. It is in both of these environments where students collaborate with one another, faculty, and staff to develop in the five qualities of a DSHA graduate.

 As BELIEVERS , our students performed over 25,000 service hours this year; worked across student groups to raise over $10,000 for local organizations (pg. 9); attended 60 hours of Eucharistic Adoration; and celebrated 9 All-School Masses.

 As SELF-ADVOCATES , they experienced an immersion trip to France (pg. 2) and a Civil Rights Pilgrimage to Washington, D.C. (pg. 31).

 As CRITICAL THINKERS , they presented real-world research alongside of university students in Seattle through the DSHA SMART (Students Modeling a Research Topic) Team (pg. 9) and our Robotics Teams finished in the top 5% of robotics teams in the world (see back cover.)

 As COMMUNICATORS , they brought home awards from the state-wide Latin convention and professionally interacted with our alumnae at Career Day (pg. 51).

 As LEADERS , Dasher Athletics brought home a Ski State Championship and our tenth Rugby National Championship (pg. 15), and our fine arts department brought home four Scholastic Art State Awards, seven Jerry Awards for musical theatre, thirteen first ratings at the State Wisconsin Music Association Solo and Ensemble Festival, and represented DSHA at the Wisconsin All-State Honors Orchestra (pg. 11).

Collaboration > We Are One Body

One of our favorite shared demonstrations of collaboration occurred at our last allschool Mass of the year. And it brought us both to the good kind of tears. The song, We Are One Body , has been a DSHA favorite for years. It is sung to close many of our all-school Masses, heard at significant events like our Baccalaureate celebration, and has even been known to make an appearance at an athletic outing or two. On the last day of classes before exams, our whole school community sung this song as we ended our final Mass of the year. It began with musical accompaniment and closed a cappella with the line, “We are one Body, one Body in Christ; and we do not stand alone. We are one Body, one Body in Christ, and He came that we might have life.”

As we talked after Mass, we shared the same response—at different points during the song, each of us stopped to just listen. To listen to the voices that sounded louder, more confident, more joyful, and more at-home than they did at the beginning of the school year. Voices in collaboration, that represented the beauty of the Body of Christ working together in unity where each person, gift, and talent has a unique and vital place in our community—a place where we all experience life to the full (John 10:10).

A Body where each member gets to be known, loved, and feel a sense of belonging, working together in Christ and out of the overflow of His love for us.

We wish you blessings and a safe and healthy rest of your summer. We look forward to beginning another school year in the coming weeks.

Scan the code to hear the closing hymn of the year, We Are One Body

Katie Konieczny, ’92 President

Dan Quesnell Principal

SPECIAL EVENTS | HIGHLIGHTS

1 | FATHER DAUGHTER BONDING

On February 4, DSHA students and their fathers, or special father figures, were invited to the historic Pfister Hotel for the annual Father Daughter Dinner Dance. This long-standing and beloved event includes dinner, live music, and dancing. To commemorate the night, Dashers were also given the chance to take professional complimentary photos with their fathers. A special thanks to DSHA parents Megan Hambrook and Suzy Koehn for chairing the event. Pictured: DSHA current parent Joaquin Altoro (left) with daughter Mirella Altoro, DSHA ’26

2 | PEARLS OF WISDOM AUCTION

Alumnae, parents, faculty, staff, and the greater DSHA community were invited to the annual DSHA Auction on March 11. This year, the themed Pearls of Wisdom Auction was held at the Pritzlaff building in downtown Milwaukee. The group gathered to celebrate and raise funds to help further the mission of DSHA. The night included a silent and live auction, dinner, and more. A special thanks to environment co-chairs and DSHA parents Christine Finerty and Mimi Goller , acquisitions chair Maria Schmelzer , and engagement chair Janet Wygert . Pictured: Schmelzer and Goller.

3 | WELCOMING FUTURE DASHERS

DSHA opened its doors to families of 5th-7th graders for a DSHA Open House event on April 23. Over 70 families and Future Dashers were given a student-led tour, met faculty and staff, and explored all things DSHA—from a thriving Campus Ministry program and outstanding college-prep academics, to co-curriculars, fine arts, athletics, and more.

4 | WELCOMING THE CLASS OF 2027

On January 25, the DSHA Class of 2027 was invited to the Dasher Kick-Off. The incoming freshmen class gathered for the first official time as a community at DSHA. Girls met one-on-one with faculty and staff to register for classes, met their school counselors, and learned about the DSHA student experience. To make the night even more special, students heard from Julia Rentmeester, DSHA ’23 , who spoke about her personal experience and growth at DSHA over the past four years. Accepted students also had a special visit day along with the several other opportunities this spring to get to know their new community. Pictured from left to right, welcoming incoming students: Charlotte Desjalaris, DSHA ’25 ; Gillian Renouard, DSHA ’25 ; Karinna Trotter, DSHA ’25 ; Jayda Thomas, DSHA ’23 ; and Catherine Finerty DSHA ’24

5 | VOLUNTEER DINNER

To celebrate those who have given back to DSHA with their time and talents, DSHA hosted a Volunteer Appreciation Celebration on Tuesday, May 9. The night consisted of drinks, appetizers, and dinner and concluded with a volunteer awards ceremony. Sister Carol Jean Zais, SDS, DS ’62 , received the Spirit of DSHA Award and Past Parent Mary Beth Piehl received the Sarah Hagerty Loyalty and Caring Award. Pictured: Monique Conley, DSHA ’98 (left), and President Katie Konieczny, DSHA ’92

6 | THE GIFT OF GRANDPARENTS

On April 26, DSHA was thrilled to welcome grandparents to the annual Grandparent Liturgy. During the event, students and their grandparents celebrated Mass together and then spent some quality time with each other over a light breakfast. The day is a special opportunity for Dashers to reflect on the gift of their grandparents and the support they’ve received from them. Pictured: Jazziah Watson, DSHA ’26 (center) with grandparents Joan and Kevin Watson.

7 | CAMPUS MINISTRY CARNIVAL

Students were invited to the Campus Ministry Carnival held in the DSHA Commons on March 30. Dashers were welcomed to join in on the fun and play games for a chance to win prizes. All proceeds from the event went to the $10,000 Together Challenge, which required collaboration from the student body to work together to raise $1,000 for ten organizations that are important to DSHA students. During the carnival, students were raising funds for Best Buddies, a non-profit organization that is dedicated to establishing a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, and inclusive living for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Pictured left to right at the carnival: Delaney Scott, DSHA ’24 ; Nora McCormick, DSHA ’23 ; Lucy Richburg, DSHA ’23 ; and Jillian Czosnek, DSHA ’23

8 | CELEBRATING CATHOLIC SCHOOLS

Dashers celebrated Catholic Schools Week from January 29–February 4 with several activities. On Monday, students, faculty, and staff were able to participate in the annual Gr8 Lengths Assembly. Participants donate eight or more inches of their hair to Children With Hair Loss, a non-profit organization that provides human hair replacements at no cost to children and young adults facing medically-related hair loss. On Tuesday, seniors defeated several members of the faculty and staff 100 to 77 in the traditional staff versus student basketball game. On Thursday, international full-time Catholic speaker Chika Anyanwu spoke with students about her personal faith journey. To end the week, students, faculty, and staff gathered for an All-School Mass that honored the DSHA Marian Scholars, an inclusive education program for students with intellectual and/ or developmental disabilities. Additionally, faculty and staff celebrating milestones of 5, 10, 15, 25, and 35 years at DSHA were recognized at the Mass. Pictured are the Marian Scholars with their families following Mass.

DASHER LIFE | HIGHLIGHTS

1 | BLACK HISTORY MONTH CELEBRATION

DSHA honored Black History Month throughout February. Activities included an optional Black History Month Read-In and an all-school Black History Month prayer service organized by the Sisters of Culture (SOC) co-curricular. The service included music by the SOC Gospel Choir and Grace Fellowship Church of Milwaukee, with specific intentions calling to mind civil rights, a slideshow presentation of inspiring Black leaders, and worship songs and dance. The SOC co-curricular hosted a “Beats & Eats” food fair with special guest and DSHA current parent DJ Anthony (A-BIZ) Foster from HYFIN. To close the celebrations, the Student Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council hosted a Dasher Dialogue on the history of the month on February 24. Pictured in the front row: Peyton Washington, DSHA ’25 (left), and Caitlynn Bell, DSHA ’25

2 | THE POWER OF COLLABORATION

Throughout this school year, DSHA worked together on a new project called $10,000 Together. Inspired by the 2022-23 school year’s scriptural theme—“how good and kind it is when God’s people live together in unity”—from Psalm 133:1, the project relied on collaboration from Campus Ministry, Student Council, co-curriculars, and the full student body. The goal of $10,000 Together was to raise $1,000 for 10 organizations that were important to DSHA students. Throughout the school year, Dashers raised over $10,000 in total for ABCD: After Breast Cancer Diagnosis (ABCD); the St. Bakhita Catholic Worker House; Camp Hometown Heroes; Warm Hands, Warm Hearts; La Casa De Esperanza; SEA Literacy; PEARLS for Teen Girls; Best Buddies; the MacCanon Brown Homeless Sanctuary; and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Pictured: Abby Quesnell, DSHA ’24 (left), and Carlin Nolan, DSHA ’24

3 | LENTEN LEARNING

DSHA offered numerous opportunities for learning, prayer, and reflection throughout the Lenten season. Students had the option to participate in daily “phone fasts” as well as faith-based Applied Wellness activities, weekly Faith Friday Masses, Lenten small groups, and more. In addition, All-School Reconciliation was held on March 23 where each student spent 45 minutes in quiet reflection or prayer in the Mother of Our Savior Chapel. On April 5, students also participated in the All-School Stations of the Cross experience.

4 | DELIBERATE DISCUSSIONS

The Student Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council hosted several Dasher Dialogues throughout the spring semester. Topics included religious literacy, Black History Month, eating disorder awareness, feminism and self-esteem, autism awareness and acceptance, Hispanic heritage, and Asian American Pacific Islander heritage. These optional dialogues have been a part of the fabric of DSHA for the last seven years. Consistent with the DSHA mission to form young women who accept the gospel call to live lives that will make a difference, Dasher Dialogues create a loving and caring space for conversations that can be uncomfortable. These conversations focus on the dignity of every Dasher while helping students understand their responsibility to act as disciples of Jesus Christ. Pictured left to right: Angeline Ortiz Mireles, DSHA ’26 ; Eileen Baker, DSHA ’24 ; and Claire Czajkowski, DSHA ’24

5 | REAL WORLD RESEARCH

Each year, the SMART Team (Students Modeling a Research Topic) co-curricular requires Dashers to work in groups to understand a molecular story and then design and build a physical protein model. This spring, students researched a genetic disorder that can cause early blindness in humans. In February, the girls traveled to the Eye Institute at the Medical College of Wisconsin to meet with their mentor, Dr. Joe Carroll, PhD, who helped them enhance their research through application. In late March, the SMART Team traveled to Seattle to present their finished project, To See or Not to See: Assessing the Implications of the P23H Rhodopsin Mutation on Retinitis Pigmentosa, to the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB).

6 | MULTI-CULTURAL WEEK

DSHA celebrated Multi-Cultural Week from January 17–21. Throughout the week, students had the option to participate in various activities including a trivia game about the Civil Rights Movement, “Wear Your Ethnic Garb” Wednesday, a prayer service, and more. On January 19, students attended a Multi-Cultural All-School Assembly, where girls had the opportunity to perform traditional dances including a Mexican folklore dance, a Korean pop dance, an Irish step dance, and a traditional Chinese dance. Several Dashers also performed personal written pieces including spoken word and poems. On January 21, students closed the week with “A World United Under the Stars” dance and an open microphone session.

Pictured: Eliana Idzikowski, DSHA ’24

7 | SERVICE IN ACTION

Vocare is the capstone of each DSHA student’s four years of service and each DSHA senior serves for two full weeks in the greater Milwaukee community. Each student works alongside the elderly, children, those with special needs, or for community outreach organizations, and experiences firsthand many of the critical issues facing society while gaining a deeper understanding of how she can utilize her God-given gifts and talents in service to others. This year, 165 DSHA senior students served at 50 non-profit organizations throughout the Milwaukee area from February 27 - March 10. Pictured: Ava Melvin, DSHA ’23 (left), and Ella Tierney, DSHA ’23

8 | HONORING EARTH DAY

Dashers celebrated Earth Day this year by beautifying the DSHA grounds. 30 DSHA students, as well as several alumnae and members of the DSHA faculty and staff, volunteered to weed, rake, plant flowers, and clean the DSHA grounds in front of the building. The service was extra special to help prepare the school for the DSHA Open House held the following day.

Pictured in front: Lea Evans, DSHA ’26

AP ART EXHIBIT

Students enrolled in AP Art: 2D Design each created a portfolio of twenty original pieces around a central theme in the mediums of their choice. Throughout the month of May, seniors had the opportunity to display 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

SCHOLASTIC ART AWARDS

As a part of the AP Art course, students have the opportunity to prepare pieces for submission to the Scholastic Art Awards where they were 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. On February 19, three DSHA artists received awards and earned acknowledgement at the 2023 Scholastic Arts Competition and Exhibition at the Milwaukee Art Museum.

I really learned the value of trying new mediums I haven't before and experimenting with new methods while taking inspiration from other famous artists and my peers. It was fun to find my creative voice through personal experiences and other artistic influences.”

1 | Alessandra Borchardt, DSHA ’23 | Honorable Mention in the Fashion category for Handwoven Sunflower Crop Top

2 | Lillian Janisch, DSHA ’23 | Honorable Mention in the Drawing and Illustration category for The Silver Slumber , and in the Mixed Media category for In the Forenoon

3 | Kallan Mosley, DSHA ’23 | Honorable Mention in the Drawing and Illustration category for Porcelain Snake

—Lillian Janisch, DSHA ’23

ANNUAL STAGE PLAY : TRAP

Between March 2-5, DSHA Theatre presented four performances of the stage play, Trap , by Stephen Gregg. Twenty-seven Dashers performed on stage in the cast, while eleven students served as the stage crew, designing, building, and producing the show behind-thescenes. The play was set in a theatre where everyone in the audience fell unconscious except for one person. The documentary-style drama was packed with twists, turns, and the flair of a thriller, and kept its audience on the edge of their seats. The show was directed by DSHA Director of Theatre, Choir, and Liturgical Music Zachary Ziegler , with set design and crew oversight by DSHA Fine Arts Faculty and Theatre Producing Director Amanda Marsala

Fall Musical Sister Act Earns Seven Jerry Awards

DSHA's fall musical, Sister Act , was an upbeat, laugh-out-loud hilarious and vibrant musical with fabulous voices, Catholic fun, incredible dance moves, and talent from Dashers. The show received numerous Jerry Awards which were named on May 5. The Jerry Awards, run by the Overture Center in Madison, recognizes excellence in high school musical theatre across Wisconsin.

Congratulations to the following Jerry Award winners!

 Maeve Pickart, DSHA ’23 | Outstanding Leading Performance Award

 Sarah Daniels, DSHA ’23 | Outstanding Supporting Performance Award

 Caelinn Carraher, DSHA ’23 | Outstanding Supporting Performance Award

 Ella Connelly, DSHA ’24 | Outstanding Supporting Performance Award

 Sandrine Biaugui, DSHA ’23 | Spirit Award

 Emily Fricker, DSHA ’24 | Spirit Award

 Theatre Producing Director and Fine Arts Faculty Amanda Marsala | Outstanding Scenic Design Award

1 | Pictured left to right: Jenna Mansfield, DSHA ’26 ; Maggie Weiner, DSHA ’24 ; Sophie Wodrachek, DSHA ’25 ; Delaney Scott, DSHA ’25 ; and Keyshla Vega, DSHA ’25

2 | Pictured left to right: Theresa Reisel, DSHA ’24 ; Sarah Egbede, DSHA ’26 ; and Lucy Halpern, DSHA ’26

3 | Pictured left to right: Ella Steiner, DSHA ’25 ; Morgan Vosniak, DSHA ’25 ; and Silvia Graves, DSHA ’26

4 | Pictured left to right: Caelinn Carraher, DSHA ’23 , and Ella Markwald, DSHA ’24

SPRING CHORAL CONCERT

On May 5, the DSHA vocal music students performed a concert rooted in the theme, Oh Lord, in the morning You will hear my voice , from Psalm 5:3. The Concert Choir performed a classic folk tune, Treat People with Kindness by Harry Styles, How Beautiful by Twila Paris, among other songs. The Angelaires performed twelve arrangements across a variety of genres—from folk and broadway, to classics and oldies. Both choirs are directed by DSHA Director of Theatre, Choir, and Liturgical Music Zachary Ziegler . Pictured below (first photo, left to right), senior Angelaires, Maeve Pickart, DSHA ’23 , Caelinn Carraher, DSHA ’23 , and Sandrine Biagui, DSHA ’23 , were featured on the piece, In My Life , by John Lennon and Paul McCartney. Pictured below (second photo, left to right), performing Blue Sky by ELO are Ella Connelly, DSHA ’24 ; Emily Fricker, DSHA ’24 ; Analise Groh, DSHA ’24 , and Annabelle Leh, DSHA ’24

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. The Angelaries were awarded with the high selective Exemplary Performance honor in the category of SSA/A Show Choir. To earn this, adjudicators identify exceptional performances at each of the state festival campuses and come together to vote for final selections.

Additionally, six individual Dashers received first ratings at the festival in the following categories:

CLASSICAL SOLO

 Genevieve Baynes, DSHA ’24 *

 Sandrine Biagui, DSHA ’23

 Caelinn Carraher, DSHA ’23

 Julia Mansfield, DSHA ’23

 Sera Stephenson, DSHA ’24

* Nominated for Exemplary Performance

Recognition

MUSICAL THEATRE SOLO

 Caelinn Carraher, DSHA ’23

 Sera Stephenson, DSHA ’24 *

MUSICAL THEATRE DUET

 Caelinn Carraher, DSHA ’23 , and Maeve Pickart, DSHA ’23

Participating in the solo and ensemble competition with the Angelaires was a truly enriching experience. Not only were we given an opportunity to showcase our abilities, but we were given new perspectives on how to improve as a group. Working together to enhance our dynamics, tone, movement, and more absolutely made us a more cohesive choir and I’m excited to see where this experience takes us.”

—Sera Stephenson, DSHA ’24

MUSIC

SPRING HANDBELLPALOOZA

On May 1, the Varsity Handbells, and two sections of JV Handbells performed the annual Spring Hanbellpalooza. The groups performed a variety of tunes from Led Zeppelin and Adele, to Disney themes and traditional pieces from Ireland and New Zealand. Additionally, all three DSHA Handbells ensembles performed their concert repertoire for the residents at Layton Terrace Senior Community in May. Pictured above, left: Lidia Mora Gallegos, DSHA ’23 , and Olivia Olson, DSHA ’26

SPRING ORCHESTRA CONCERT

Hallelujah Handel served as the theme for the spring orchestra concert on May 3. Members of the DSHA Orchestra and the Divine Strings each performed works by Handel, along with the theme from Schindler’s List , a John Williams Trilogy, and more. In April, the Divine Strings also performed for the noon Mass at the Basilica of St. Josaphat. Pictured above, left to right: Eliana Idzikowski, DSHA ’24 ; Mary Stith, DSHA ’26 ; and Dylan Trampe, DSHA ’26

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 for their performance of the theme from Schindler’s List and a John Williams Trilogy.

Additionally, four individual Dashers received first ratings at the festival in the following categories:

CELLO SOLO

 Carolina Islas, DSHA ’26

VIOLIN SOLO

 Sophia Collins, DSHA ’26

 Yessica Rodriguez, DSHA ’25

PIANO SOLO

 Gisela Adelson, DSHA ’26

WSMA STATE HIGH SCHOOL HONORS ORCHESTRA

Cellist Carolina Islas, DSHA ’26 , and violinists Sophia Campos, DSHA ’24 , and Yessica Rodriguez, DSHA ’25 (pictured on the cover), were each selected for the prestigious honor of being named to the Wisconsin State High School Honors Orchestra. For over 50 years, the Wisconsin School Music Association (WSMA) State Honors Project has provided students from across Wisconsin the opportunity to rehearse and perform with nationally-recognized conductors in a professional setting. This year, more than 1,250 students auditioned, identifying Islas, Campos and Rodriguez as three of Wisconsin’s finest high school musicians. The group will perform in October at the State Music Conference in Madison.

I’m excited to have made the orchestra and am eager to continue playing symphonic music with new people. I think being part of the organization will help me improve as a musician and collaborate with other musicians as well.”

—Carolina Islas, DSHA ’26

I'm so excited to have made it because I'm looking forward to advancing my skills with new people in a new environment. We also get to work with renowned directors which will help further my abilities."

—Yessica Rodriguez, DSHA ’25

Varsity Rugby A-Side Team Brings Home National Title

The reason we have had so much success over the years is because we are a family. Every single player gives their all during practice, games, and tournaments because we’re all running for each other. It’s been the best four years I could’ve asked for and I gained a family I will have forever.”

—Mary Czarnecki, DSHA ’23 | Team Captain

As Team Chaplain, I learned how big of a role God had in how we played. We would pray together as a team before each game, and I believe having that strong connection to Him helped us succeed.”

—Tobie Dahm, DSHA ’23 | Team Chaplain

The DSHA Varsity Rugby team added another exciting and successful season to the DSHA Rugby program’s impressive resume.

They began the spring season the weekend of April 29-30. Over the course of the weekend, they beat Penn High School 46-0, St. Joseph Academy 41-0, and Sparta Rock Academy 31-29 to bring home the Midwest Championship Title.

They moved on to compete in the Single School National Tournament in Cottage Grove, WI from May 20-21 where they proved, once again, they were a force to be reckoned with. On May 20, they took on Grandville High School from Michigan in the quarter finals and won 27-5. Later that day, they competed against Catholic Memorial in the semi-finals and won 57-7. On May 21, the Dashers defeated Rocky Mountain of Idaho 32-10 to bring home the Single School National Invitational Championship, the 10th for the program.

Varsity Head Coach John “Chin” Klein spoke with Fox6News Milwaukee about the continued success of the team. He stated, "You come here with an expectation to be great, and every year, I tell them that I want them to be the best team that there ever has been. Not the best in the country, the best there ever has been, and unless you say it, you can't be it."

As a team, I think we've supported each other in so many ways. We uplift and encourage each other at practice, games, and outside of rugby. If anyone on our team needed help or advice, they could turn to any of their teammates for the support they need.”

—Ellie Gonzalez, DSHA ’23 | Team Captain

Being on the DSHA Varsity Rugby team the past four years has taught me leadership, collaboration, and the power in playing for something bigger than yourself. I have seen different styles of leadership through our various team captains and learned how to be an effective leader myself. I’ve also learned that you will never have enough want or drive to succeed in something if you are your only motivator. To be successful, you need to be inspired by a moment or person that has affected you. We always ask ourselves ‘who do you run for?’ and I run for my parents.”

—Yesenia Morales, DSHA ’23 | Team Captain

The biggest piece of advice I have for next year's players is to keep their foot on the gas. As seniors, we left behind an incredible group of players. If they remember that and continue to push themselves to grow, they will continue to be successful in the future.”

—Janie Retzer, DSHA ’23 | Team Captain

FROM THE TEAM CAPTAINS AND CHAPLAIN:

DSHA RUGBY SPRING SEASON

By-The-Numbers

Record: 6-0

Total Points Score vs. Opponents: 234 v-51

Dasher Rugby Athletes

Total Dashers in the Program | 50

• Class of 2023 Players | 12

• Class of 2024 Players | 24

• Class of 2025 Players | 6

• Class of 2026 Players | 8

Full Season Schedule and Results

 Midwest Championship Tournament | Elkhart, Indiana

• April 29 | W, 46-0 vs. Penn High School, Indiana

• April 29 | W, 41-0 vs. St. Joseph Academy, Ohio

• April 30 | W, 31-29 vs. Sparta Rock Academy, Michigan

 National Championship Tournament | Cottage Grove, WI

• May 20 | W, 27-5 vs. Grandville High School, Michigan

• May 20 | W, 57-7 vs. Catholic Memorial, Wisconsin

• May 21 | W, 32-10 vs. Rocky Mountain, Idaho

NOTABLE RECOGNITIONS

All-State Recognitions: Evelyn Coffou, DSHA ’24 ; Tobie Dahm, DSHA ’23 ; Sienna Ebo, DSHA ’25 ; Meghan Finerty, DSHA ’24 ; Flan O’Keef, DSHA ’24 ; Yesenia Morales, DSHA ’23 ; Greta Rehmann, DSHA ’24 ; Megan Reilly, DSHA ’23 ; Janie Retzer, DSHA ’23 ; Melanie Sanchez, DSHA ’24 ; Madison Turcinovic, DSHA ’24 ; Meghan Walsh, DSHA ’24

Coaches: John “Chin” Klein , Boris Turcinovic , and Joe Kloiber

DSHA Flag Football Team Dominates Green Bay Packers Flag Football Open

The Green Bay Packers hosted the first ever Packers Girls Flag Football Open on April 1 in Green Bay. All Wisconsin schools were encouraged to apply and DSHA was one of only ten schools chosen. Co-Head Varsity Field Hockey Coach, English Faculty, and Instructional Technology Coordinator Quinn Loucks , and Health & Fitness Faculty Jess Liban took 13 girls to Green Bay, most of whom compete for the nationally competitive DSHA Varsity A-Side Rugby team, to compete in the event. They played three games in a jamboree style format and DSHA won all three games. They defeated Clayton 44-19 in the first game, Milwaukee King 49-13 in the second game, and Wauwayega-Fremont 39-21 in the third game. Out of the 10 teams, DSHA was one of only two schools that went undefeated.

Scan the code to view a story by Fox6News Milwaukee on the DSHA Rugby team.

Varsity Ski Team Wins Fourth State Championship in Six Seasons

This winter, the DSHA Varsity Ski team finished the regular season with five 1st place finishes and one 2nd place finish. Their success throughout the season qualified them to compete in the Wisconsin Alpine Racing Association State Championship on February 19 and 20 where they finished in 1st place. The state championship marks the fourth in the last six years for the program. The team finished 2nd overall in the slalom, 5th overall in the giant slalom, and 1st overall in the super giant slalom (super-G race) to bring home the trophy.

Payton Bradford, DSHA ’24 ; Riley Doerr, DSHA ’26 ; Mack Doerr, DSHA ’23 ; Piper Dupies, DSHA ’23 ; Joan Barry, DSHA ’23 ; Emily Peterson, DSHA ’26 ; and Anne Klaus, DSHA ’25 , represented the team at the state competition.

Additionally, Bradford placed second overall as an individual, which included placing second in slalom, third in giant slalom, and fifth in the super-G. Riley Doerr placed ninth in slalom and 9th in the super-G.

It’s always special to end the season in such an exciting way together because it was a great team effort in that everyone influenced the outcome. The state competition always has a fun, competitive energy that I think fuels everyone to ski their best and cheer everyone on.”

—Joan Barry, DSHA ’23

Midwest High School Ski Conference Place | 2nd

Notable Recognitions:

 National Team Member & 1st Team

All-Conference | Payton Bradford, DSHA ’24

 National Team Member & 2nd Team

All-Conference | Riley Doerr, DSHA ’26

 Honorable Mention All-Conference | Mack Doerr, DSHA ’23

Team Captains | Joan Barry, DSHA ’23 ; Caroline Denton, DSHA ’23 ; Mack Doerr, DSHA ’23 ; Sally Manning, DSHA ’23

Team Chaplain | Joan Barry, DSHA ’23

Coaches | David Denton, David Nonn , and Katie Ullrich, DSHA ’17

BASKETBALL

The DSHA Varsity Basketball team won the WIAA Regional Championship on February 24 for the fifth year in a row after defeating Hartford 74-64. Ally Timm, DSHA ’24 , hit 1,000 points in her DSHA Varsity Basketball career during the game. The team finished their season against Germantown on March 2 in the WIAA Sectional Semi-Finals.

Overall Record: 15-11

Greater Metro Conference Place: 4th

Notable Recognitions:

 Honorable Mention All-State & 1st Team All-Conference | Ally Timm, DSHA ’24

 Honorable Mention All-Conference | Ashley Jones, DSHA ’23 ; Karinna Trotter, DSHA ’25

Team Captains: Helena Cesarz, DSHA ’23 ; Ally Timm, DSHA ’24

Team Chaplain: Hailey Bachmann, DSHA ’24

Coaches: Brian Hendricks , Sean Garczynski , and Kendall Frohwirth

GYMNASTICS

The DSHA/West Allis Co-Op Varsity Gymnastics team finished their regular season on February 17 at the GMC Conference meet. While there, Dani Riemer, DSHA ’25 , placed 2nd on the vault and Sophia Wrench, DSHA ’25 , placed 6th on the floor.

Overall Record: 4-7

Team Captain: Dani Riemer, DSHA ’25

Coaches: Cassandra Westover , Sammie Olsen , Kaylee Gessay , and Mara Wells

ICE HOCKEY

The University School of Milwaukee/DSHA Co-Op Ice Hockey Varsity Team won the WIAA Regional Championship against Lakeshore Lightning on February 17. On February 21, in the WIAA Sectional Semi-Final game, the team defeated the Fond du Lac Warbirds 2-0. Goalie Molly Jex, DSHA ’24 , secured 24 saves throughout the game in the shutout victory. The team finished their season on February 24 in the WIAA Sectional Final game against Bay Area.

Overall Record: 20-6-1

Eastern Shores Conference Place: 1st

Notable Recognitions:

 1st Team All-State & 1st Team All-Conference | Molly Jex, DSHA ’24

 2nd Team All-State & 1st Team All-Conference | Charlotte Fetherson, DSHA ’24

Coaches: Dan Carey and Carl Valimont

LACROSSE

After a successful start to the season with four wins in a row, and an average of nine goals per game, the DSHA Varsity Lacrosse team posted a winning record. In post-season play, they secured a first-round bye, and then hosted Cedarburg on June 1. In a thrilling back and forth game, the team defeated Cedarburg 11-8. Their season concluded on June 2 against WSN (Whitefish Bay, Shorewood, Nicolet Co-op.) Eleanor Langenfeld, DSHA ’24 , was the top scorer of the team with an impressive total of 56 goals throughout the season.

Overall Record: 10-8

Classic 8 Conference Place: 4th

Notable Recognitions:

 1st Team All-Conference | Maeve Steger, DSHA ’25; Eleanor Langenfeld, DSHA ’24; Audrey Peterson, DSHA ’24

 2nd Team All-Conference | Natalee Roloff, DSHA ’23 ; Kelly Tarantino, DSHA ’24

 Honorable Mention All-Conference | Eva-Marie Moss, DSHA ’23 ; Riley Doerr, DSHA ’26

Team Captains: Eleanor Langenfeld, DSHA ’24 ; Eva-Marie Moss, DSHA ’23 ; Maeve Steger, DSHA ’25

Team Chaplain: Mary Carol Dougherty, DSHA ’24

Coaches: Allison Sturgeon and Hannah Redden

SOCCER

The DSHA Varsity Soccer team brought home the WIAA Regional Championship on June 3 when they defeated Germantown 2-1. The Dashers then brought home the WIAA Sectional Championship title after defeating Sussex Hamilton 4-0. Their success qualified them to compete in the WIAA State Tournament as the #2 seed. They finished an impressive season as GMC champions and WIAA State Semi-Finalists.

Record: 7-0-1 in GMC; 17-3-2 overall GMC Conference Place: 1st

Notable Recognitions:

 1st Team All-American + 1st Team All-State + GMC Player of the Year | Piper Dupies, DSHA ’23

 Honorable Mention All-State + 1st Team All-Conference | Jane Martin, DSHA ’23

 1st Team All-Conference | Ashley Jones, DSHA ’23 ; Charlotte Fetherson, DSHA ’24

 2nd Team All-Conference | Meg Dorrington, DSHA ’23; Olivia Durst, DSHA ’25 ; Lily Filmanowicz, DSHA ’25

 Honorable Mention All-Conference | Victoria Gonzalez, DSHA ’25 ; Daisy Johnson, DSHA ’23 ; Mary McLaughlin, DSHA ’25 ; Harper Neldner, DSHA ’25 ; Alexandra Schneider, DSHA ’25

Team Captains: Meg Dorrington, DSHA ’23 ; Piper Dupies, DSHA ’23 ; Daisy Johnson, DSHA ’23 ; Ashley Jones, DSHA ’23 ; Jane Martin, DSHA ’23 ; Angelina Terlizzi, DSHA ’23

Team Chaplain: Angelina Terlizzi, DSHA ’23

Coaches: DSHA Science Faculty Kevin Roethe , Steve Lawrence , and Social Studies Faculty Katie Leszcynski, DSHA ’10

SOFTBALL

The DSHA Varsity Softball team was busy rebuilding their team after losing eight seniors the previous year. Strong play was seen across all four grade levels, freshmen through senior. The team finished their season on May 23 in the WIAA Regional Semi-Final game against Brookfield Central.

Overall Record: 5-11 in GMC; 8-18 overall

Greater Metro Conference Place: 8

Notable Recognitions:

 2nd Team All-Conference | Kyra Henke, DSHA ’25

 Honorable Mention All-Conference | Mara Acosta, DSHA ’24 ; Lauren Correa, DSHA ’24 ; Mandy Delcore, DSHA ’24 ; Journey Franz, DSHA ’26 ; Sophie Paruzynski, DSHA ’23

Team Captains | Lauren Correa, DSHA ’24 ; Mandy Delcore, DSHA ’24 ; Sophie Paruzynski, DSHA ’23

Coaches | Social Studies Faculty Tom Montgomery , Kaitlyn Lewis , and Theology Faculty Danny Pavlovich

TRACK AND FIELD

Throughout the season, the DSHA Varsity Track & Field team competed in the Greater Metro Conference meets which included the Indoor, Relay, and Outdoor Meets. Their best finish was at the indoor meet where they placed second. In post-season, the team competed in the WIAA Regional and Sectional meet from which they qualified 12 athletes to compete in the WIAA State Track & Field Championship Meet June 1-2 at UW-Lacrosse. At the state meet, the relay team of Olivia Campbell, DSHA ’24 ; Annie Larsen, DSHA ’26 ; Saylor Masters, DSHA ’25 ; and Ava Johnsen, DSHA ’26 , placed 14th in the 4x800m relay. Felicity Giampietro, DSHA ’23 ; Mae Scheuing, DSHA ’23 ; Campbell; and Johnsen placed 16th in the 4x400m relay. Dani Riemer, DSHA ’25 , placed 18th in triple jump, and Helena Cesarz, DSHA ’23 , placed 17th in shot put and discus.

Greater Metro Conference Places:

 Indoor Meet | 2nd

 Outdoor Meet Place | 4th

 Relay Meet Place | 6th

Notable Recognitions | Greater Metro Conference Honors

 Dani Riemer, DSHA ’25 | 1st Team:

4x200m §; Long Jump*+; Triple Jump* | 2nd Team: Triple Jump + |

3rd Team: 55m ; 4x100m §

 Felicity Giampietro, DSHA ’23

| 1st Team: 4x200m§ | 2nd Team: 200m*+ | 3rd Team: 100m+; 4x100m§

 Mae Scheuing, DSHA ’23 | 1st Team: 4x200m §

 Elena Sommer, DSHA ’26 | 1st Team: 4x200m §

 Natalie Swiderski, DSHA ’24 | 2nd Team: 55m High Hurdles *; 3x100m

Hurdles § | 3rd Team: 55m Low

Hurdles

 Haddon Russell, DSHA ’23 | 2nd Team: 4x800m*; 4x1600m §

 Annie Larsen, DSHA ’26 | 2nd Team: 4x1600m § | 3rd Team: 3200m

 Olivia Campbell, DSHA ’24 | 2nd Team: 4x1600m §

 Mairin Daily, DSHA ’25 | 2nd Team: 4x800m*

 Maggie Gavahan, DSHA ’23 | 2nd Team: 4x1600m §

 Maddie Hartung, DSHA ’25 | 2nd Team: 3x100m Hurdles §

 Maddie Mahoney, DSHA ’23 | 2nd Team: 4x800m

 Sally Manning, DSHA ’23 | 2nd Team: 3x100m Hurdles §

 Saylor Masters, DSHA ’25 | 2nd Team: 4x800m*

 Helena Cesarz, DSHA ’23 | 3rd Team: Shot Put *+; Discus §

 Ella Dorrington, DSHA ’25 | 3rd Team: 4x100m §

 Maggie Stubbs, DSHA ’25 | 3rd Team: 4x100m §

Team Captains: Helena

Cesarz, DSHA ’23 ; Maggie

Gavahan, DSHA ’23 ; Felicity

Giampietro, DSHA ’23 ; Sally

Manning, DSHA ’23 ; Mae

Scheuing, DSHA ’23

Team Chaplains: Claire

Chontos, DSHA ’23

Coaches: Health and Fitness Faculty and Director of Fitness & Performance Brian Calhoun ; Specialized Studies & Mathematics Faculty Libby Wissing

DSHA ’10 ; John Danielson ; Katie Blaufuss ; Dee McCain ; Matt Ogden ; and Bill Mier

Public Policy Scholarship

HONORING A LEGACY TO EMPOWER YOUNG WOMEN.

Lauren Dedinsky Maddox, DSHA ’82 , currently serves as the Senior Policy Advisor at Holland & Knight LLP in Washington, D.C. The firm focuses on public policy, government relations, contracts, municipal law, real estate, finance, and environmental law. Professionally and personally, she exhibits a strong awareness for human concerns and demonstrates leadership in her community and career field.

In 2012, Maddox returned to DSHA to accept the honor of being named the DSHA Alumna of the Year, a distinction given to alumnae whose daily life reflects the Christian values and ideals nurtured at DSHA, while also acting as an inspiration for other women. Prior to arriving, she asked permission to spend the day on campus. She sat in on classes, talked with students, and brainstormed the next edition of The Word Magazine She was so taken with her experience, that by the time she landed back home in Washington, D.C., she knew she wanted to create a scholarship for DSHA students. The Mary Mross Public Policy Scholarship was created just days after her visit.

Currently, the scholarship is awarded to a rising junior or senior who best articulates her position on a designated public policy issue facing her generation. The essays are reviewed blindly by a committee of alumnae and selected on their merit.

Q: Why did you want to start the Mary Mross Scholarship?

A: To honor the legacy of a great teacher ( Former Social Studies Faculty Mary Mross †) who exposed me to the foundations of democracy and American politics. I also wanted to share my passion for public service.

Q: The scholarship benefits a rising junior or senior who can articulate her position on a designated public policy issue facing her generation. Why do you believe it is important for students to be able to write and speak cohesively about current issues?

A: The ability to write is a powerful skill, regardless of one’s career choice. So too, the gift to communicate precisely what it is you want to convey. In order to do that, it’s best to understand what you’re talking about and that starts with inquiry. Specifically, in politics, among the critical questions to ask are, “What is the issue? What are we debating? What are the facts as we understand them? Who are the decision makers and what are they saying? Who will be impacted and in what ways? What is at stake? Who opposes what solutions and why? Where can we find consensus?” Asking such questions and listening to those with differing views from our own, will help achieve a better policy outcome.

Q & A WITH LAUREN DEDINSKY MADDOX, DSHA ’82, FOUNDER OF THE MARY MROSS SCHOLARSHIP

Lauren Dedinsky Maddox, DSHA ’82 , presented Hannah Jochman, DSHA ’24 , with the 2022-23 Public Policy Scholarship at the 2022 Underclasswomen Honors Night.

Q: You have given back to DSHA and that scholarship for a number of years. Why has it been important to give to the school?

A: I believe it’s important to lean in and give back— whether to people or places—that are meaningful in one’s life. I really loved my time at DSHA and think it is an amazing place dedicated to fostering leadership, fellowship, entrepreneurship, and civic mindfulness. DSHA thematically aligns to other giving I’ve done to advance women in leadership. My hope in giving to the scholarship, along with my fellow alums, is to encourage young women to engage in issues and ideas, be open to opportunities, to try new things, travel new places, and to celebrate the people and places in life that bring joy. The scholarship is really about an opportunity, a possibility, and something to think about. It’s also about sharing one’s thoughts and ideas with a group of alumnae who were once where they are. For the scholar recipient, perhaps it plants a seed for a path they may want to walk down one day.

Q: What impressed you about the 2022-23 recipient, Hannah Jochman, DSHA ’24 , and the 2023-24 recipient, Anne Klaus, DSHA ’25 ?

A: Jochman’s essay impressed the selection committee, in part, because she embedded questions into her essay. No student had done that before, and we found it impressive, as the foundation of good policy development is issue exploration and inquiry. Klaus’ essay was equally well done. It was beautifully written, original, and fact-based. We had requested students compare and contrast the speech of Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to Congress in 2022 to another moment in history. Klaus compared Zelenskyy’s speech to Winston Churchill’s address to Congress during World War II which was nearly 80 years ago. It was a unique and thoughtful parallel.

Q: What are you hoping young women get out of their experiences at DSHA?

A: Whatever it is they hope to get out of it. Maybe they don’t even know in the moment how powerful a teacher, a classmate, or a coach can be. But someday, an experience or a memory will present itself, and they will look back and realize it was instrumental on their journey. It doesn’t take much to inspire greatness in someone. Often, it’s just a matter of helping them see what was there all along.

Q: How did the all-girls environment at DSHA impact you?

A: I am a big believer in single-sex education during high school. There is a lot of change and growth happening during those years and there is something valuable in sharing that with individuals who are experiencing similar things. I also believe the single-sex

learning environment empowers young women to explore their own ideas and ways to communicate them more freely.

Q: How did DSHA’s Catholic Identity impact you?

A: Life is full of twists and turns and highs and lows. Having a foundation of faith will absolutely carry you through. It has been the case in my own life when there are simply no answers to the questions I am asking. But I believe I’m not alone on life’s journey, and that brings tremendous comfort.

Q: What were the most important skills you learned at DSHA that you still use?

A: Writing, oral communications, and critical thinking.

Q: What about DSHA impresses you today?

A: The academic rigor as well as the focus on leadership, physical fitness, mental wellness, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math), and the arts.

Q: What are your hopes for DSHA in the future?

A: That DSHA holds onto the traditions it is known for, which creates wonderful memories across generations, while also innovating with the world around it. Giving students the awareness of where the world is going will help them to not only engage with the change, but to eventually lead it.

Q: What was your favorite part of your DSHA experience?

A: That’s a tough question because it wasn’t just one thing. It was about making friends with girls across the city, engaging in extracurricular activities, exposure to career fields, and so much more.

President Katie Konieczny, DSHA ’92 , and Brian Maddox (son of Lauren Dedinsky Maddox, DSHA, ’82 ) presented Anne Klaus, DSHA ’25 , with the 2023-24 Public Policy Scholarship at the 2023 Underclasswomen Honors Night this spring.

Committing to be

BY ERIN M c CARVILLE

The Present to the Spirit retreat is held each year in January and serves as an optional experience for members of the junior class to further develop their relationship with God. An overnight, two-day experience, the retreat was held at the Redemptorist Retreat Center in Summit, WI from Monday, January 16–Tuesday, January 17. The retreat is intentionally held at a time when the year can start to feel overwhelming for junior Dashers as academics become more rigorous with thoughts of college applications on the horizon.

The retreat concentrates on the biblical story of Mary and Martha. When the two sisters opened their home for Jesus, Martha hurries around the room to ensure preparations are ready. Her sister Mary, however, simply sits at the feet of Jesus and listens. Comparable to the busy experience of junior year, the girls examine their faith through this perspective. The scriptural theme is from Luke 10:41-42: The Lord answered, “You are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one.” The passage helps students determine the extent to which they are open to God’s daily presence in their lives. Throughout the retreat, the girls listen to witness talks from their peers, discuss faith with their small groups, and participate in individual prayer and reflection.

hen Olivia Campbell, DSHA ’24 , chose to sign up for the retreat, she was hoping to connect with students who were passionate about their faith, as she was feeling disconnected from hers. Camilla Chaisorn, DSHA ’24 , was hoping it would provide a nice break from her studies and a time to reflect on her current relationship with God. Signing up for different reasons, the two girls were surprised to discover the retreat far exceeded their initial expectations. The retreat allowed them to focus on what was important in their lives, and rediscover and strengthen their relationship with their peers, faith, and God.

Pictured left to right is Abby Quesnell, DSHA ’24 ; Olivia Campbell, DSHA ’24 ; and Abby Jens, DSHA ’24 , at the Redemptorist Retreat Center.

to the Spirit

Dashers had several opportunities to reflect on their current relationship with God and their faith life. Contemplating Luke 10: 41-42, students wrote down what anxieties and struggles prevent them from feeling close to God. Pasting these words around the hand-written Bible verse, students then thought of multiple ways they could grow closer to God and be more like Mary for the remainder of the school year. They shared these ideas with each other and, once finished, placed them on top of the anxieties and struggles they wrote earlier.

The Communal Aspect of Faith

Chaisorn had not been heavily involved with DSHA Campus Ministry when she signed up for the optional retreat. While she had attended the two previously required retreats, Set Sail her freshmen year and Through the Turbulence her sophomore year, she desired a break from school and was curious if this retreat would be helpful in further exploring her relationship with her faith.

“Looking back over the two days, my favorite moment of the retreat was the first day when we were encouraged to share a meal with our small group. All of the girls in my group were people I hadn’t previously known and might not have met otherwise. Throughout the week, we engaged in group discussions about our faith and grew to have really meaningful conversations. These discussions led me to contemplate what I value and find meaningful.”

Continuing throughout the retreat, Chaisorn started to pay attention to when she felt most invigorated and involved with her faith. Quickly, she knew it was when she was sharing it with others. She explained, “It’s easy to see faith as a solitary activity but it doesn’t always have to be that way. We sang worship songs, heard witness talks, walked with others in nature, and asked ourselves difficult questions over the two days. It was like nothing I had done before, and I hadn’t realized how fun and powerful faith

could be when sharing it with others.”

Similarly, Campbell was hoping to connect with people who were passionate about their faith. Feeling disconnected, she hoped the experience would help revive that important part of her life.

“My faith has always been important to me and I have been involved in some Campus Ministry activities. I serve during the all-school Masses, and I’ve been on some service projects. It can be so hard to keep your faith active throughout the school year when there is so much going on.”

Director of Campus Ministry Stephanie Monson knows how important it can be to choose to engage with your faith during this time. She shared, “to choose faith during a busy and sometimes stressful time of life can be so powerful. There is beauty in giving girls that time to refocus on where they are going and how they want to approach the remainder of their time in high school—all through the lens of their identity and worth in God.”

Leaning into the experience, and with the help from members in her small group, Campbell realized she feels connected to her faith when engaging with others. She shared, “I give to God and my faith through service work and daily actions. I absolutely love going to St. Vincent de Paul and volunteering to make meals as part of their

program. It is amazing to see people there who are willing to donate their time, or food, to give to those who are struggling in Milwaukee. I feel my faith most strongly when I am giving back.”

Comparably, she also pays close attention to her daily actions. She stated, “being kind to my parents, my friends, my peers, my teachers, is something I can do to feel connected to my faith. It makes me feel as if I am living in a way that God would want me to live.”

Cultivating Relationships with God

As the Campbell and Chaisorn continued through the two days of the retreat, both were asking themselves how they could grow in their personal relationships with God. In their small groups, discussion questions were raised including, “Have you ever struggled with your faith or trust in God? Does God play a role in your daily life?”

As Chaisorn found herself contemplating these questions, and intently listening to her peers, she discovered how often and common it is to turn to God in moments of sorrow or hardship. She explained, “I noticed we pray more when we have an upcoming test or when things are not going our way,” she explained.

“But I think it is also important to take time to realize God is also there for you in times that are good. For example, if you’re having a good moment with your friend or someone you love, that is a gift from Him. Taking time at that moment to stop, pause, and realize He is there with you is so incredibly important.”

Dashers were able to enjoy each other’s company after completing an evening retreat activity.

Pictured left to right: Lilia Graves, DSHA ’24 ; Syniah Lee, DSHA ’24 ; Meli Sanchez, DSHA ’24 ; Stacy Ramirez, DSHA ’24 ; Samiyah Heaston, DSHA ’24 ; Jocelyn Frain, DSHA ’24 ; Neve Hammel, DSHA ’24 ; Camilla Chaisorn, DSHA ’24 , and Meghan Finerty, DSHA ’24

Recognizing that God is actively present in the small moments throughout her day, Chaisorn compared the relationship to a newly discovered friendship. “He should be someone I share all my moments with. My best friend that I get to celebrate and enjoy my life with.”

During the retreat, Chaisorn took some quiet moments alone to foster her friendship with God. She described a trail she often walked throughout the retreat stating, “there was this trail you could walk that had the Stations of the Cross. I thought it was nice to be out in nature and experience the beauty of nature while leaning into prayer. It was so quiet and peaceful and allowed me to take those deep breaths and invite God into my daily life.”

Campbell, in a different small group, was quickly recognizing that she hadn’t been giving the individual time to her relationship with God that she desired. While He had always been an important part of her life, it had been a while since she engaged with God outside of community activities. Over the two days, she found new ways to connect with God that she hadn’t considered before. She shared, “during my small group discussions, I learned how my peers often find and connect with God by doing things they love.”

Leaning into that notion, one of Campbell’s favorite moments during the retreat was engaging in activities she enjoys. The girls gathered into their small groups and read from the bible to find passages that were impactful to them. Once they had chosen a passage, they were given the option to paint the words onto a canvas. Wanting to try

a new way to connect with God, she decided to take part in the activity.

“I absolutely love art. Getting to share a simple activity like this with God was one of my favorite moments during the retreat.” Similar to Martha, Campbell realized she didn’t need to be busy or doing much to feel close and connected to God.

Looking Ahead, Leading for Others

Arriving back to DSHA that Tuesday afternoon, the girls reflected on their experiences during a closing Mass. Committing themselves to prioritize their faith lives, the two didn’t hesitate before jumping into several Campus Ministry opportunities.

Chaisorn shared, “after optional junior retreat, I really committed myself to getting involved with Campus Ministry. I signed up to be a small group Lenten Leader and spent each Monday during Lent discussing faith, reading scripture, and praying with a small group of freshmen.”

In addition, Chaisorn was also selected to serve as one of the Small Group Leaders for the Set Sail freshman retreat for the 2023-24 school year. She shares, “I really want to show these younger girls, especially freshmen, that their faith life at DSHA can be impactful and fun at the same time. If I can provide that example to them, maybe they’ll get involved sooner than I did.”

Campbell will serve as one of the Present to the Spirit junior retreat coordinators. She shared, “I want to ensure that other juniors will have the same experience that I had. The retreat really reaffirmed how important my faith is to me. Knowing how easily it can be lost throughout the year, I want to be someone who can help remind others how important it is to keep God at the forefront.”

As the two move forward in their respective leadership roles, they will continue to dedicate themselves to sharing their faith with others, prioritizing this aspect of their lives, and growing in closeness with God and community.

Present to the Spirit Itinerary

Monday, January 16

MORNING

 Opening session and journaling prompts

 Mary & Martha activity and prayer

AFTERNOON

 Witness talks

 Small group discussion questions

 Examining values activity

 Art activity

EVENING

 Prayer, poetry, and small group discussions

 Relationship with God examination activity

 Witness talks

 Eucharistic Adoration

 Night prayer

Tuesday, January 17

MORNING

 Morning gratitude prayer

 Witness talks

 Small group discussions

 Mary & Martha activity

AFTERNOON

 Closing prayer

 Mass at DSHA

DSHA Retreat Schedule

Early Fall of Freshmen–Senior Year

DSHA Campus Ministry Optional Opening Retreat

Fall of Freshmen Year

Set Sail

Fall of Sophomore Year

Through the Turbulence

Spring of Junior Year

Be Present | Optional Junior Retreat

Spring of Senior Year

The Road to Emmaus: Past, Present, and Future

Since 2018 , AP enrollment at DSHA has grown 26% with

641 enrollments in the 2022-23 school year.

576

Total number of AP exams taken by DSHA students during the 2022-23 school year, a 17% increase from the previous school year , with

90% of enrollments choosing to take the AP exam for college credit.

370 Total number of individual DSHA students † enrolled in AP courses during the 2022-23 school year, a 15% increase in enrollment from 2021-22.

†AP courses are available to juniors and seniors with a select number of courses available to sophomores.

DSHA is far outpacing the national average when it comes to AP scores.

76% and

At the time of receiving the College Board award this school year, DSHA was one of only 209 schools in the country to earn the achievement of the AP Computer Science Female Diversity Award

77% of the 2023 and 2022 DSHA AP exams, respectively, earned a score of 3 or higher, the number needed to qualify for college credit.

Comparatively, the national average for the same AP exams with a score of 3 or higher in 2022 was

59%

Note: at the time of publication, the 2023 AP national score averages had not yet been published.

AP COURSES and

the DSHA DIFFERENCE

Seniors from the AP Calculus BC class, taught by Mathematics Faculty Rissie Lundberg, DSHA ’93 , gather on College Decision Day this spring. Students pictured left to right: Felicity Giampietro, DSHA ’23 ; Mae Scheuing, DSHA ’23 ; Kate Hemsworth, DSHA ’23 ; Sophie Paruzynski, DSHA ’23 ; Helena Cesarz, DSHA ’23 (back); Yaleska Sosa, DSHA ’23 (back); Katie Duffy, DSHA ’23 ; Lidia Mora Gallegos, DSHA ’23 ; Morgan Mackey, DSHA ’23 ; Megan Kelroy, DSHA ’23 ; Claire Mooney, DSHA ’23 ; Ashleigh Walesa, DSHA ‘23 ; Maddie Mahoney, DSHA ’23 ; and Maggie Gavahan, DSHA ’23

AP courses are a significant part of the college preparatory experience at DSHA. Advanced Placement courses are regulated by the College Board and offer students an opportunity to explore and master curriculum in a similar manner to what they will experience in college. The courses are rigorous and often require extended reading and preparation for class, and even additional or extended class time. Beyond a typical high school course, AP classes challenge students in their critical thinking and analytical skills, in order to properly synthesize learned information and concepts. The AP courses culminate in May with a standard, nation-wide AP exam. Scores range from 1 to 5; scores of 3 or higher are eligible for college credit.

DSHA continues to significantly outpace the national average for AP exams. In 2022, 77% of DSHA student exams scored high enough to be eligible for college credit, and 76% in 2023. According to the College Board Student Score Distributions in 2022, the national average for these same tests was 59%.

A Q&A on AP at DSHA with Salutatorian Mae Scheuing, DSHA ’23.

Scheuing will attend St. Thomas University in the fall with college credits from six DSHA AP courses. Additionally, she has earned a STEM-based, full tuition, four-year academic scholarship; she intends to study both chemistry and neuroscience. Her plan is to attend medical school and become a physician. She credits, in part, her AP coursework and the teachers who taught them to the formation of this dream, along with the confidence she has built to pursue it.

Q: What AP courses have you taken at DSHA?

A: Sophomore year: AP Government & Politics; junior year: AP Chemistry and AP US History; senior year: AP Biology, AP Literature and Composition, and AP Calculus BC.

Q: DSHA has outpaced the national average for AP scores year after year. In light of your own experience, why do you think this is?

INTELLECT FEATURE

A: One of the major things at DSHA is our classroom dynamic. Especially in AP classes, you feel a sense of community with the girls you are working with. I’ve always felt comfortable speaking up and asking questions—both to my teachers and classmates. And answering questions when I know the answer. In middle school I was nervous to be wrong. Throughout high school, I have grown to appreciate how asking questions prepares you to be successful. That is such an important skill to go to college with.

Q: How do you think the all-girls classroom environment affects the dynamic in your AP classes?

A: We have a lot of freedom in our AP classes. The mindset of the classroom is a group of girls who have chosen to take the hard class; they have chosen the passion or the challenge. They want the strong academic experience. It gives you the confidence and the freedom to care. The goal in these classes has to be to learn. Taking boys out of the equation removes the distraction and a pressure to be anything besides yourself. When people ask questions like, “will my daughter be prepared and empowered to be in a STEM field?” it brings up the notion of comparing men to women. When you remove boys, you remove that comparison barrier. It allows the classroom to be a room full of girls who are their authentic selves. The social aspect is gone, and school gets to be school.

Q: How have your teachers specifically helped you in your AP courses and with college preparation?

A: The teachers at DSHA are amazing. We get to be with our role models every single day. Role models who can see your talent as a student and as a person. They care about us so much, and they are so well versed in their subjects. Seeing their passion has been inspiring. They get excited about what they are teaching, so we can’t help but get excited about learning. When you have great teachers like we do, you are empowered to work through difficult things. They have convinced me that I can go off to college and succeed in challenging work. Their confidence in me as a student has turned into confidence I feel about my own knowledge, comprehension, and abilities. It is so empowering as we get ready to go off to college. I want to work hard and do well because my teachers have taught me so well. I want to honor the work they have put into me by working hard on my own.

Q: You have a passion for STEM and have been very successful in these classes. Where did this passion begin, and how has it grown through your classes at DSHA?

A: This definitely started in high school. I loved biology freshmen year with Mrs. Strandberg ( Science Faculty Stacey Strandberg ) and then chemistry with Mrs. Loehr ( former Science Faculty Cathy Loehr ). During COVID, I spent a lot of time with a neighbor who was

an ER doc. She was a mom of six kids and would work the night shift. I loved hearing stories about her job. Amazing and passionate role models like my teachers and our family friend have helped instill that same passion in my own STEM work.

Q: What have you learned from the other girls in your AP classes?

A: There are a lot of shared and challenging experiences that we work through together. It is empowering to see the passion of other girls. I am so amazed by them and the things they accomplish in and outside of the classroom. We bond in these classes and you become friends with girls you might not have known as well otherwise. It’s a second set of friends who are like family. These girls have taught me to be present and cherish the moments—whether hilarious or difficult. And to take that in to how you work with others. Having a community of girls who work hard together also gives our teachers flexibility to meet us where we are at and make sure we know our material.

Q: Talk about the biggest challenge you have faced in your AP classes and how you approached it.

A: Sitting down and taking the time on my own to go back and learn or memorize things was challenging. In BC Calc this was especially true as we were learning derivatives of the inverse trigonometric functions. Ms. Lundberg ( Mathematics Faculty Rissie Lundberg, DHSA ’93 ) would ask us how we were doing and what

Mae Scheuing, DSHA ’23 , is recognized at graduation as the DSHA Class of 2023 Salutatorian.

we were doing to help us with this process. As we talked about it as a class, I realized there is a collective struggle. And that is when we came together the most as a community and decided we wanted to see everyone succeed. Ms. Lundberg did such a great job with pacing in this class and checking in on how we were doing with the material—what we were understanding, how we were feeling about it, where we needed extra time—all while staying on pace for the AP exam. A lot of BC Calc is abstract and it can be frustrating to learn. But she never gave up on us, and we learned how to put our brains together to work through difficult concepts.

Q: Talk about a success story that you are proud of from one of your AP classes.

A: Second semester, one of our tests in AP Calc was a group test where the whole class worked together. At first I thought, “oh no”. But everyone studied and brought something to the table. We set up a strategy where we decided to take the test by ourselves and then come back together and convene as a group. It was such an “aha” moment of how well that class collaborated. There was some push and pull, back and forth, but we talked about problems conceptually and the numbers, and came to a group consensus where we all felt confident about how we got there. We would whiteboard out, draw, and explain our thinking to each other. This is what it looks like to be in a community of people who are supporting each other—collaborating and problem solving together. Every single person contributed. It was difficult, but we ended up with a 100% on the test.

Q: How did your AP classes prepare you for your AP exams?

A: It is a lot about trusting the process. Our teachers have the experience and they will prepare you as long as you put in the work. In BC Calc, I wasn’t sure up until the exam, but I did what Ms. Lundberg told us to do and got what would translate to a (score of) five. I took the class, did the homework, and studied. I was prepared and it paid off. Our teachers want us to succeed so they prepare us properly. They are always willing to give extra help or practice impromptus—sometimes even more difficult than the exam so that the exam itself seems manageable. Our teachers prepare us by setting up a culture of success and support where we get to share our opinions, ideas, and questions. It doesn’t feel competitive or scary to do this. And it all translates to how we get to learn and be prepared for the exam, college, and what comes after that.

Q: Is there anything else you want to say about your AP classes at DSHA?

A: Being at DSHA has developed my mindset of leaning into challenges. When you achieve something

you were unsure about—like taking BC Calc, and you choose to achieve versus taking an easier path, you learn how to lean in and push yourself. Figuring out how you work as a person and a problem solver is so valuable. It is not always smooth, and sometimes you can feel overwhelmed or that concepts are so difficult. But to have a culture where we support each other as our authentic selves, and where hard work is encouraged and supported, you can’t help but know you are prepared for college. The challenge is about the learning, but it is also about building character and coming out of the struggle on the other side.

English

AP English Literature and Composition

AP English Language and Composition

Fine Arts

AP Art: 2D Design

Mathematics

AP Calculus (AB)

AP Calculus (BC)

AP Precalculus

 new offering for the 2023-24 school year

Science

AP Biology

AP Chemistry

AP Environmental Science

AP Physics C Mechanics

Specialized Studies

AP Computer Science A

AP Statistics

Social Studies

AP European History

AP Human Geography

AP U.S. Government & Politics

AP U.S. History

World Languages

AP Spanish Language and Culture

A Civil Rights Pilgrimage to Washington, D.C.

From March 22-25, the famous Washington, D.C. cherry blossoms hit an early peak to welcome 25 students and five chaperones from DSHA for the school’s second Civil Rights Pilgrimage. Dashers and chaperones alike walked miles upon miles, and steps upon steps throughout Washington, D.C., specifically visiting sites with a focus on racial justice and civil rights. All 30 members of the trip “prayed with their feet,” engaging with one another and their surroundings as pilgrims—as people who journey to a sacred place.

Following the footsteps of the faithful.

In 2017, Theology Department Chair Lisa Metz dreamed up the idea to take Dashers on a Civil Rights Pilgrimage. Students from Marquette University High School and Messmer High School joined girls from DSHA on a 2,000 mile trek in June of 2018 where they visited historic sites in Memphis, Birmingham, Montgomery, Selma, and St. Louis. Their steps commemorated the 50th anniversary of America’s Civil Rights movement by following in the footsteps of leaders who confronted racial injustice and brutality with prayers, marches, songs, and steadfast faith; footsteps that helped lead the movement toward equal rights and racial justice.

This March, the second pilgrimage of its kind took the same type of steps—this time in Washington, D.C., where museums and monuments help tell the many journeys of individuals, and the collective story of our nation.

What is the difference between a pilgrimage and a field trip?

The first draft of this introduction to our student-voice stories was written the same way we write other pieces for The Word Magazine —from a third-person point of view. I was fortunate to chaperone this trip. Yet, this was not a trip. It was a pilgrimage. And thus as a participant first, and a chaperone second, I write and introduce our student reflections to you as a pilgrim—as one with the benefit of having engaged alongside of them and colleagues alike, through listening, question-asking, prayerful reflection, experiencing, and lots of walking.

Each morning, our group started our days together with both collective prayer and space for silence. We encouraged one another to walk through the city and engage

in our stops with intention. On a pilgrimage and through the lens of Catholic faith, we did our best to: carry ourselves with curiosity, to reflect on our place in the story, to ask questions and listen to one another, to pray with our feet, and to seek the sacred in the everyday—the places where we get to connect with God.

Seeking the sacred in the everyday.

We closed our evenings with a large group reflection, discussing our individual and collective experiences in the context of our intentions as pilgrims. It was an honor to hear where our students saw the sacred in their own footsteps. To hear where they felt challenged, what they learned, what surprised them, what was difficult, and perhaps most importantly—how do we take what we have learned home with us?

As a staff member who does not teach in a classroom, first and foremost for my own experience, I found the sacred in walking side-by-side and learning from the experiences of our students. Additionally, an unforgettable point in our pilgrimage was visiting a small library at Howard University that houses the largest repository of books and documents on the global Black experience. The librarian on site showed us a table where Howard Law School graduate Thurgood Marshall researched and penned his arguments for the Brown vs. Board of Education case in the early 1950s before going on to become the first African American Supreme Court Justice. We learned that the space has been mostly unchanged since then. To sit in his actual chair, at the actual desk, was to ask the question, “where would we be today without the path forged in this room? Or even without the room itself? A room created to house and preserve stories and experiences…” To work in education and be on a school trip with people of different races, backgrounds, and perspectives was to contemplate that we are better able to live out our calling to love God and love others because of the courageous work done in that very specific place. A picture of that place now hangs on my office wall as a reminder of an experience I hope to never forget, of the fortitude of those who have laid the path for the world in which we live today, and of the work we have yet to do.

An introductory note from trip chaperone, VP of Marketing and Communications Molly Shea:

Micah 6:8 | Act justly, love mercy, walk humbly with God.

Now here comes the good part. Four students have written of their own experiences as pilgrims. Through the lens of Micah 6:8, they have identified a piece of this verse that helped shape their experience, their questions, their learnings, and their hope for the world around them. They have all chosen a specific stop on our trip that was especially and personally meaningful to them to share with our DSHA community:

Karinna Trotter, DSHA ’25

To Walk Humbly | A reflection on a visit to the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture

Sylvia Halaiko, DSHA ’25

To Act Justly | A reflection on a visit to the Martin Luther King, Jr. I Have a Dream speech marker at the Lincoln Memorial

Azzie Lee, DSHA ’25 , and Sam Lee, DSHA ’25

To Love Mercy | A reflection on a visit to Georgetown University and Howard University

Pictured in front of the Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History Culture and the Washington Monument, left to right; row one: Azzie Lee, DSHA ’25 ; Lucy Pickart, DSHA ’25 ; Jane Callanan, DSHA ’25 ; Brielle Willems, DSHA ’25 ; Maggie Stubbs, DSHA ’25; Sam Lee, DSHA ’25 . Row two: Sylvia Halaiko, DSHA ’25 ; Lilia Graves, DSHA ’26 ; Eliana Melendes, DSHA ’25 ; Simone Steeno, DSHA ’25 ; Amy Teye, DSHA ’25 ; Marielle Van Heijningen, DSHA ’25; Ana Sofia Phillips, DSHA ’25 ; Karinna Trotter, DSHA ’25 ; Peyton Washington, DSHA ’25 ; Ora Williams, DSHA ’23 ; Syniah Lee, DSHA ’24 ; Kallan Mosley, DSHA ’23 ; Samiyah Heaston, DSHA ’24 ; Nyla Moore, DSHA ’23 . Row three: Eliana Idzikowski, DSHA ’24 ; Ash Jackson, DSHA ’24 ; Ellie Rauh, DSHA ’23 ; Skye Graham, DSHA ’25 ; and Paula Palacio-Enachi, DSHA ’25

2023 DSHA Civil Rights Pilgrimage

Washington, D.C. Itinerary

THURSDAY, MARCH 23

 Morning gathering and prayer

 The Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History & Culture

 The Smithsonian's American Art Museum and National Portrait Gallery:

 Presidential Portraits

 Special exhibit: The Struggle for Justice

 Special exhibit: I Dreamed A World: Portraits of Remarkable Black Women

 Guided night-time walking monument tour with visits to:

 Tidal Basin

 Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial and Stone of Hope

 Lincoln Memorial and MLK I Have a Dream Speech Marker

 World War II Memorial

 Vietnam Memorial and Vietnam Women’s Memorial

 Korean War Memorial

 Evening gathering, reflection, and prayer

FRIDAY, MARCH 24

Pictured left to right near the Washington Monument are trip chaperones, VP of Marketing & Communications Molly Shea , Theology Department Chair Lisa Metz , DSHA Board of Directors Member Derek Mosley , Director of DEI Cynthia Blaze , and Social Studies Faculty Patrick Dawson

 Morning gathering and prayer

 Howard University Campus Tour

 Georgetown University Campus Tour

 Evening gathering, reflection, and prayer

To Walk Humbly

A reflection on a visit to the Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture.

by Karinna Trotter, DSHA ’25

The best way to summarize our first full day, aside from Micah 6:8, comes from a quote by Confucius that states, “it does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop.”

Our first day was heavy, not only because we walked so many miles, but because of the emotions we experienced and the bonds we formed. When Mrs. Metz first explained the attitudes, approach, and posture she expected from us throughout the Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture, especially the history section on the bottom three floors, I chuckled in my head because at the time, I naïvely generalized and underestimated the history and struggles of African Americans. As a biracial young woman, the experience I had through the bottom section of the museum was not only life changing, but better defined “walking humbly” for me, as it allowed me to walk with people who value civil rights to the high extent that I do, while learning more about my African American culture, all through a Catholic lens.

I feel that it is necessary to reiterate that Jesus created people to be together, and to put emphasis on the fact that over American history we have strayed away from upholding the dignity of humanity. The museum showcases the African American experience through positivity while also creating moments where people must ponder the pain of slavery and segregation.

When I first stepped into the museum, I knew I had to walk it by myself because I would not have been able to develop the entirety of my character and increase my knowledge about my culture if I walked with my friends. As I walked around, I took in everything: from the pit of despair I felt when I saw the child-sized handcuffs used on slave ships, to the grief I felt when reading about Margaret Garner, a runaway slave who killed her own daughter to save her from the darkness of enslavement.

The most valuable experience from this museum was the Emmett Till memorial. I have always had a specific part of myself that never fears to be drawn to Emmett Till’s story. When I first walked into the memorial, alone, I went right to the information plaque next to the real casket that once held the battered body of Emmett Till. As I stood on my tiptoes to see more of the casket, I was met with his face—the face that his mother Mamie forced society to view through his open casket funeral back in 1955. This moment took over the entirety of my body, making me unable to think and move. I knew it was time to take a step back.

As I walked out, fellow trip member and my friend Sylvia Halaiko was also walking out from the memorial. I could see the tears falling on her face; mine trickled down as well. We shared a glance full of grief, guilt, and sorrow, and then momentarily shared a hug that will be something I will never forget. We stood there together, crying simultaneously in an embrace. I’ve never shared such humility before. Even though I walked into the memorial by myself, what speaks the most volume and holds such a significance in my heart, is that moment with Sylvia and that I walked out humbly with others.

Second from left, Karinna Trotter, DSHA ’25, visits an interactive media arts gallery in the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture, pictured (left to right) with Brielle Willems, DSHA ’25 ; Amy Teye, DSHA ’25 ; Marielle Van Heijningen, DSHA ‘25 ; Peyton Washington, DSHA ’25 ; Skye Graham, DSHA ’25 ; and Jane Callanan, DSHA ’25

In closing, as I think about walking humbly, not only with those on the trip, but with God as well, I want to touch on the responsibility society needs to accept. The Bible is filled with ways Jesus helps others, whether it's through the salvation He has provided us, or merely helping the blind see. He sets the standard for humility, in which we need to first think of how we can use our gifts to help others. To me, walking humbly means carrying yourself in a way that you can value yourself and understand what you need, while also balancing the ability to frequently help and actively listen to others. The power of others and their contrasting perspectives are so valuable.

I would not have become a more developed person throughout the trip if I had not walked and learned with others every day. While pilgrimages offer humility through the interactions and walks you have with others, it is how you take advantage of that freedom within the opportunity, like I did, to get the best out of every experience.

1. In addition to scheduled stops on the itinerary, Dashers had the chance to see the White House from the outside in person, along with other Washington, D.C. landmarks near the National Mall.

2. Each morning, students and chaperones gathered to share a meal at breakfast, pray, and talk through intentions for the day. Students were reminded to look for the sacred, to listen, and to engage with curiosity and a learning spirit throughout their pilgrimage.

3. Dasher Pilgrims spent time reflecting at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial and granite-carved Stone of Hope located next to the National Mall on the Tidal Basin.

4. Students walked from the War Memorials to the Lincoln Memorial on a guided night-time tour. Dashers were led by Milwaukee native Cecilia Kochinski-Mulder who currently serves as a Senior Program Officer at the U.S. Department of State.

5. Over 50,000 steps per person were walked over the two days of exploring Washington, D.C.

Photos by Eliana Idzikowski, DSHA ’24.

To Act Justly

A reflection on a visit to the Martin Luther King, Jr. I Have a Dream speech marker at the Lincoln Memorial.

by Sylvia Halaiko, DSHA ’25

During our Civil Rights Pilgrimage to Washington, D.C., the Martin Luther King Jr. marker located in front of the Abraham Lincoln Memorial is what resonated with me the most. Following the difficult, moving walk through the Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture, we experienced a night-time walk through the monuments in D.C.

As we sat down at the bottom of the Lincoln Memorial, our tour guide brought attention to the Martin Luther King Jr. marker and how its location is significant to his activism. This struck my attention because for my whole life, he had been my picture of justice. I thought to myself, I am actually standing where this happened in history

Because we were there on a cool night, few people were outside visiting the monuments. I felt this immense sense of peace and gratitude for the work of the people before us in advocating for civil rights. However, I was reminded that there is still so much to be done. The MLK marker remembers and brings attention to where Martin Luther King, Jr. delivered his I Have a Dream speech in 1963. Being able to stand where he stood was such an overwhelmingly powerful feeling.

Sylvia Halaiko, DSHA ’25 , is pictured far right near the MLK I Have a Dream speech marker at the Lincoln Memorial. Also pictured left to right, Nyla Moore, DSHA ’23 ; Ellie Rauh, DSHA ’23 ; Lucy Pickart, DSHA ’25 ; Eliana Idzikowski, DSHA ’24 ; Peyton Washington, DSHA ’25 ; Eliana Melendes, DSHA ’25 ; Jane Callanan, DSHA ’25 ; Paula Palacio-Enachi, DSHA ’25 , and Karinna Trotter, DSHA ’25

The amount of history that existed on the ground where we were walking reminded me of the importance of active listening. Listening and acting go hand in hand. Without one, you cannot successfully have the other. Active listening helps us see and hear others without assuming how they feel. As someone who does not experience the discrimination and prejudice that people of color live with, it is important that I listen to their experiences first before acting on civil rights. I frequently worry that I will say or do the wrong thing, but that’s where the listening part comes in. I admire and learn so much from people of color that move and fight through their fear to create change. Making mistakes and being able to recognize them, and grow and learn from others is crucial and builds character.

Listening and learning were especially powerful throughout this pilgrimage because we approached the trip through the lens of our faith. I was reminded of Jesus’ compassion and empathy for those that society belittled and marginalized; how He not only saw them and recognized them, but invited them to His table, walked with them, and uplifted them. I think about this and recognize my role in attending this pilgrimage, walking with others, and learning alongside of and from others.

Since returning from our trip to D.C., everywhere I go I'm thinking about how I'm walking around in places where so many people have lived before me. I am reminded of how it’s important to recognize the efforts of the people before us, and the progress that has been made. But to also recognize that there is so much more that needs to be done. Through active listening, I am motivated to further help educate others. This trip taught me so much and has helped me continue to advocate for social change and civil rights by acting justly.

To Love Mercy

A reflection on a visit to Georgetown University and Howard University.

by Azzie Lee, DSHA ’25, and Sam Lee, DSHA ’25

“Love mercy” means giving people an opportunity to be shown grace at all times and to be willing to self-reflect to better love those around you. When touring the Georgetown University campus, we saw “love mercy” being lived out through the effort the Catholic university is putting in to find descendants of enslaved people of African descent. The university is working to reconcile its historical involvement with slavery, and their monetary gain that came from the sale of slaves.

While we walked around the various parts of campus we were faced with many examples of what Georgetown is doing to reconcile its past wrongdoings. We saw signage, moving pictures, slide shows, and campus billboards— all that carried the mission of the school to further shed light on its past, and bring peace to the affected families.

Azzie Lee, DSHA ’25 , and Sam Lee, DSHA ’25 , are pictured (far right) in front of Healy Hall on the Georgetown University campus, alongside of fellow St. Sebastian Catholic School alumni (left to right) Syniah Lee, DSHA ’24 ; Sylvia Halaiko, DSHA ’25 ; Ora Williams, DSHA ’23 ; Kallan Mosley, DSHA ’23 ; Simone Steeno, DSHA ’25 ; and Eliana Melendes, DSHA ’25 .

The biggest show of “love mercy” we saw throughout the campus was educational signage and information on the Reconciliation Fund. Georgetown donates $400,000 annually to this fund to do community-based projects that directly impact descendant communities whose ancestors were enslaved at one time on the Maryland Jesuit plantations. Georgetown’s ability to take responsibility for its past, is an active demonstration of what it means to love mercy.

The same day we visited Georgetown, we also visited Howard University, an HBCU (historically Black college or university.) At Howard we met a student from a public high school, who prior to attending Howard, didn't have any AP courses available to her, but she got in, worked really hard, and is currently a biochemistry major who is excited to graduate from Howard in the class of 2024. We are so grateful that places like Howard exist—specific places that give everyone, especially young Black students, a chance to succeed, and a place to go that will give them the opportunity they deserve to excel. Not only was this student a demonstration of loving mercy at Howard, but she also helped us to realize what an amazing opportunity DSHA is—a place to ensure that each girl has the chance to excel and pursue areas of interest in their futures.

After visiting both campuses on the second day of our pilgrimage we all sat down and had a heartfelt conversation and reflected on what we saw, learned, and felt from our long days. Our biggest takeaway from this conversation was that everyone has a story worth listening to and worth loving. We, along with everyone else on the journey, were put in a place where we got to “Act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God.” We connected ina way that is unexplainable unless you were there to experience it for yourself. Loving others and being open to everyone's differences is the way we interpret “love mercy”, and it is a teaching we will carry with us for the rest of our lives.

Dasher Pilgrims pose at the heart of the Howard University campus. Howard is an HBCU with a tradition dating back to 1867. They are a leader in STEM fields, with the most African American graduates who go on to earn Ph.D.s in science and engineering; their 150+ year old law school is consistently recognized as an advocate for social justice; and they remain committed to being one o f the top research universities in the country.

Blessings & Congratulations TO YOU ON YOUR GRADUATION!

GRADUATION!

On Friday, May 26, the DSHA Class of 2023 was honored for the culmination of their high school education at the Miller High Life Theatre in the presence of family, friends, the Sisters of the Divine Savior, and the DSHA faculty and staff. The night before, graduates celebrated with a Baccalaureate Mass and a senior awards presentation.

STUDENT COMMENCEMENT ADDRESSES

Each year at graduation, the class valedictorian (the student with the highest grade point average) reflects on her personal experience and growth as a DSHA graduate. Additionally, the senior class votes on a student to represent the “Spirit of the Class” to deliver a “Farewell from the Senior Class” speech.

Now that we are about to part ways, we have a decision to make. We can either spend the rest of our lives looking forward to everything we are to achieve in the future, or we can consciously choose to embrace the moment we are currently living in. As we embark on our next journey, I encourage us to pause, to cherish the present, and to find comfort living in the less eventful parts of our lives. I challenge you all to use these past four years as a lesson in embracing the ordinary. After all, it was the seemingly ordinary moments, the ones we never really think about as they’re happening, that have made our high school experience one to remember.”

DSHA CLASS OF 2023 VALEDICTORIAN COMMENCEMENT ADDRESS

Kate Hemsworth, DSHA ’23

You’ll all become amazing people, with amazing, well rounded lives, and I know we’ll always root for one another. I’ll be in your corner no matter what. Not one of us will ever forget everything that we did here. You will not be forgotten. I will not be forgotten. And the teachers will not be forgotten. It’s strange walking away from a place that fundamentally changed our lives and taught us how to grow up. But that is exactly what we need to do now. Grow up and live, which I’m sure we’ll all do well. As my man, the 16th and tallest President Abraham Lincoln says, ‘The best way to predict your future is to create it.’ I can’t wait to watch all of you create yours.”

DSHA CLASS OF 2023 SPIRIT OF THE CLASS “FAREWELL FROM THE SENIOR CLASS” COMMENCEMENT ADDRESS

Sarah Daniels, DSHA ’23

Scan to read Daniels’ full commencement address.

Scan to read Hemsworth’s full commencement address.

Senior Class Prayer

Dear God,

Thank You for this final time to gather as the class of 2023 to celebrate how far we have come. Throughout our four years together, Divine Savior Holy Angels High School has formed our class into resilient, passionate, and driven young women of faith.

Having been freshmen the year the world shut down, we pray in thanksgiving for the passion and empathy that the difficult months of the COVID-19 pandemic created in us. May they inspire us to create positive change in the world, reflecting the values we learned at DSHA.

We pray for our teachers, whose expertise and knowledge shaped our lives throughout the last four years. May they continue to use their gifts and talents to help the next generations of Dashers grow and become young women of faith, heart, and intellect. We hope that current and future Dashers embrace every opportunity DSHA provides so they may become confident, capable young women.

We pray for our parents and guardians, who supported us through every step of our high school journey. May they feel our gratitude and love for the rest of our lives. We pray for our extended families as well, and the support that they provided us in our times of need.

Finally, we pray for the class of 2023. We pray for our futures; may we continue to grow as strong young women, ready to go out into the world. We pray for the continued support and camaraderie of the graduating class; may we embrace the DSHA sisterhood for the rest of our lives. We pray that we never forget what we learned in our classes, the laughs we’ve shared, and the confidence we’ve gained over the last four years. May we continue to make a positive impact in the world and carry the gospel wherever we go.

Response from the class of 2023: Lord, we thank You for our time at DSHA, our teachers, fellow Dashers, our parents, our families, and our own growth. Help us to continue to bring the faith into the world and help us to always remember that we do not stand alone.

Amen.

Written by DSHA Campus Ministry Officers Nora McCormick, DSHA ’23 , and Lucy Richburg, DSHA ’23

Written by DSHA Class of 2023 seniors: Nora Claire McCormick and Lucy Gene Richburg

COLLEGE MATRICULATION, AWARDS, AND RECOGNITIONS

This fall, 165 members of DSHA’s Class of 2023 will head to 61 different colleges and universities, looking forward to new experiences and endless opportunities in their best-possible-fit schools and endeavors.

DSHA CLASS OF 2023 COLLEGE MATRICULATION BY STATE

35 %

OF DASHERS ARE HEADED TO CATHOLIC COLLEGES OR UNIVERSITIES

19

9

STUDENTS

Marquette University

4

STUDENTS

Saint Louis University

STUDENTS

St. Norbert College

3

STUDENTS

Loyola University Chicago

DASHERS WILL ALSO ATTEND:

STUDENTS

Gonzaga University

3

52

3 Xavier University

STUDENTS

2 students to: Boston College, Duquesne University, Loyola University New Orleans, University of St. Thomas (MN)

1 student to: Alverno College, Catholic University of America, College of the Holy Cross, Creighton University, Fordham University, Mount Mary University, University of Dayton, University of San Diego

*Reported scholarships dollars to accepted colleges and universities for the DSHA Class of 2023 .

DASHERS WILL CONTINUE THEIR STUDIES AT A BIG TEN UNIVERSITY

University of Wisconsin—Madison

University of Minnesota—Twin Cities

University of Iowa

Northwestern University

Indiana University

The Ohio State University

University of Michigan

31

$24,254,981 * 9 6 3

DSHA CLASS OF 2023 COLLEGE MATRICULATION (CONT )

DSHA senior class awards

ACADEMIC, LEADERSHIP, AND SPIRIT EXCELLENCE

Kate Hemsworth | DSHA Class of 2023 Valedictorian | Washington University, Biochemistry

Mae Scheuing | DSHA Class of 2023 Salutatorian | University of St. Thomas, Neuroscience

Sarah Daniels | DSHA Spirit of the Class* | Gettysburg College, History and Political Science

Julia Rentmeester | Dasher Leadership Award | Hillsdale College, History and Spanish

Eva-Marie Moss | Mardi Gladson Award* | University of Minnesota—Twin Cities, Sociology of Criminology

*Peer-determined award.

SALVATORIAN SERVICE AWARD

SPONSORED BY THE SISTERS OF THE DIVINE SAVIOR

This award affirms graduating seniors who have consistently shared their time and talent with others in a compassionate and caring manner during their four years at DSHA, completing a significant number of service hours through their junior year, and documented ongoing service to vulnerable persons through first semester of their senior year.

Lucy Apolinar-Hernandez | Mount Mary University, Business Administration and Communications

Kelly Coury | University of Wisconsin—Madison, Biochemistry

Sarah Daniels | Gettysburg College, History and Political Science

Kennedy Donohue | Saint Louis University, Nursing

Lauren Dudkiewicz | University of Iowa, Nursing

Kate Hemsworth | Washington University, Biochemistry

Dayanara Hurtado Gonzalez | Milwaukee Area Technical College, Business Administration and Communications

Quinn Jennings | University of Southern California, Cinema, Media Studies, and Screenwriting

Daisy Johnson | University of California—Irvine, Criminology Law

Megan Kelroy | University of Pittsburgh, Molecular Biology

Bella Lipski | University of Wisconsin—Milwaukee, Special Education

Morgan Mackey | University of Virginia, Kinesiology

Jane Martin | University of Wisconsin—Madison, Political Science

Nora McCormick | University of Wisconsin—Madison, Psychology

Caroline McGartland | University of Wisconsin— Madison, Journalism

Claire Mooney | Boston College, Nursing and Theology

Eva-Marie Moss | University of Minnesota—Twin Cities, Sociology of Criminology

Gracie Mount | Marquette University, Nursing

Maeve Pickart | Marquette University, Nutrition

Antonina Warren | Ball State University, Business Administration

Yaleska Sosa-Azcarraga, DSHA ’23 , (left) and Elise Daczko, DSHA ’23 , at Senior Class Awards Night.

Audrey McCormick, DSHA ’23 , received the Outstanding Senior award for the English Department as well as the Outstanding Senior Latin IV award for the World Languages Department.

dsha departmental awards

These awards are nominated and given by DSHA faculty and staff to outstanding seniors in each discipline.

ENGLISH DEPARTMENT

Audrey McCormick | Outstanding Senior Carleton College, Classics and Creative Writing

Caelinn Carraher | Salvatorian Book Award Loyola University—Chicago, Anthropology

Quinn Jennings | Scholastic Writing Awards, Gold Key+ University of Southern California, Cinema, Media Studies, and Screenwriting

FINE ARTS DEPARTMENT

Quinn Jennings | PFAA Fine Arts Woman of the Year University of Southern California, Cinema, Media Studies, and Screenwriting

Eva Kunz | Outstanding Senior Visual Artist University of Wisconsin—Madison, Nutritional Sciences

Maeve Pickart | Outstanding Senior Vocalist Marquette University, Nutrition

Flora Miroslaw | Outstanding Senior Instrumentalist Loyola University New Orleans, Popular & Commercial Music

Caelinn Carraher | Drama Dedication Award Loyola University—Chicago, Anthropology

MATHEMATICS DEPARTMENT

Kate Hemsworth | Outstanding Senior Washington University, Biochemistry

SCIENCE DEPARTMENT

senior stem scholars

Meg Dorrington | Saint Louis University, Biomedical Engineering

Charlie Lund | University of San Diego, Behavioral Neuroscience

Madeline Mahoney | Elon University

Casey Masterson | Saint Louis University, Business Technology Management

Sophie Paruzynski | University of Minnesota—Twin Cities, Computer Engineering

SOCIAL STUDIES DEPARTMENT

Sarah Daniels | Outstanding Senior Gettysburg College, History and Political Science

WORLD LANGUAGES DEPARTMENT

french

Analise Falci | Outstanding Senior French V Northeastern University, International Affairs and Business

Eva Kunz | Outstanding Senior French IV University of Wisconsin—Madison, Nutritional Sciences

latin

Audrey McCormick | Outstanding Senior Latin IV Carleton College, Classics and Creative Writing spanish

Mae Schueing | Outstanding Senior Spanish V University of St. Thomas, Chemistry

Megan Kelroy | Outstanding Senior Spanish IV University of Pittsburgh, Molecular Biology

DASHER ATHLETICS

Helena Cesarz | Sportswoman of the Year + WIAA + NIAA Scholar Athlete Northwestern University, Biomedical Engineering and Psychology

Meg Dorrington | Coaches Award Saint Louis University, Biomedical Engineering

scholarships to celebrate

Kate Hemsworth | Washington University, Biochemistry

national merit finalist

This annual scholarship program recognizes the academic achievements of high school seniors based on the PSAT performance. Of the 22,000 high schools who enter the competition, less than one percent of seniors receive recognition as a finalist.

united states presidential scholars program semi - finalist

This award recognizes some of the nation’s most distinguished graduating high school seniors who demonstrate ability and accomplishment in career and technical education fields. Each year, the Presidential Scholars award is one of the nation’s highest honors for high school students.

United States Military Academy Appointment

Yesenia Morales | United States Military Academy at West Point, Life Sciences

West Point offers its cadets a fully funded education including tuition, books, room and board, and insurance. Cadets also receive a monthly stipend to pay for additional expenses.

academic excellence scholars

Kate Hemsworth | Washington University, Biochemistry

Sophie Paruzynski | University of Minnesota—Twin Cities, Computer Engineering

Academic Excellence Scholarships are awarded to Wisconsin high school seniors who have the highest unweighted grade point average among other criteria in each public and private high school throughout the State of Wisconsin.

AON SCHOLARSHIP | National Merit Scholarship, Special Award

Lauren Dudkiewicz | University of Iowa, Nursing

National Merit Special Scholarships are awards for academically outstanding students and supplemented by corporations through the National Merit Scholarship program.

science, math, and engineering scholarship

Mae Scheuing | University of St. Thomas, Chemistry and Neuroscience

This full-tuition, four-year academic scholarship is awarded to only two high-achieving students planning to persue degrees in the sciences, mathematics, or engineering at the University of St. Thomas.

BURKE SCHOLARSHIP

Stephanie Villalobos Romo | Marquette University, Exercise Physiology

This full tuition 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.

URBAN SCHOLARS program

Natalia Beans | Marquette University, Molecular Biology

This full-tuition scholarship recognizes academically promising students from Milwaukee-area high schools. The scholarship is awarded to only five MU students in each incoming freshman class.

HPSP VETERANS AFFAIRS SCHOLARSHIP

Gracie Mount | Marquette University, Nursing

The Health Professional Scholarship Program awards full tuition to deserving students receiving education in a health-care services discipline and assists in providing an adequate supply of such personnel for the Department of Veterans Affairs.

QUESTBRIDGE COLLEGE MATCH

Lidia Mora Gallegos | Northwestern University, Chemical Engineering

This full-tuition scholarship connects academically outstanding students from diverse backgrounds with opportunities at top colleges, including the QuestBridge path to college, beginning junior year with the college admissions process through alumni support opportunities upon graduation.

athletic scholarships

Nine Dashers will be attending the following schools with scholarships to continue competing in their respective sport.

Ellie Connor | Loyola University New Orleans, Nursing | Volleyball

Olivia deGuzman | Illinois Wesleyan, Pre-Dentistry | Volleyball

Mack Doerr | Boston College | Field Hockey

Ava Downs | Hillsdale College, Marketing and Finance | Clay Target Shooting

Piper Dupies | Williams College, Political Science and American Studies | Soccer

Bella Lipski | University of Wisconsin—Milwaukee, Special Education | Volleyball

Charlie Lund | University of San Diego, Behavioral Neuroscience | Rowing

Yesenia Morales | United States Military Academy at West Point, Life Sciences | Rugby

Katarina Muha | Duquesne University, Speech Language & Pathology | Rowing

Medalists

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

Medalist Luncheon | 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.

Baccalaureate Mass and Graduation | Graduating medalists are honored during Baccalaureate Mass as each medalist and her alumna mother, grandmother(s), and/or great-grandmother(s) are called to the front where the graduate will receive 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 mother, grandmother(s), and/or great-grandmother(s). Each graduating medalist receives a rose charm for her necklace. Additionally, each alumna of HA receives a lavender rose with a yellow ribbon; each alumna of DS receives a red rose with a white ribbon; and each alumna of DSHA receives a yellow rose with a red ribbon.

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE 2023 MEDALIST GRADUATES AND THEIR FAMILIES!

Holy Angels Academy opened on September 15, 1892 serving boys and girls grades 1-10. Operated by the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary (BVMs), HA became an all-girls school within its first year, and by 1922 focused on high school Sisters of the Divine Savior opened Divine Savior High School All students were “preps”—young women preparing to become Salvatorian sisters. Lay students began attending

DSHA opened its doors to students of both HA and DS in the fall of 1970. Combining the former rivals helped preserve a strong Catholic, college-prep high school option for girls in Milwaukee, after about 60% of Catholic all-girls high schools closed during the era. Today, DSHA proudly calls graduates of all three high schools alumnae.

HISTORY LESSON

Margaret Dorrington, DSHA ’23

Mother: Kathleen Pfeil Dorrington, DSHA ’98

Grandmother: Mary Pat Klein Pfeil†, DS ’65

Grandmother: Maureen Rice Dorrington, HA ’67

Great-grandmother: Beverly Bolger Klein†, HA ’44

Great-grandmother: Ruth Tague Rice†, HA ’32 (far right: Eleanor Dorrington, DSHA ’25 )

Tobie Dahm, DSHA ’23

Mother: Kathleen Carney Dahm, DSHA ’90

Grandmother: Paula Boucher Carney†, DS ’64

Antonia Warren, DSHA ’23

Mother: Monica Foti Warren, DSHA ’98

Grandmother: Jennifer Halaska Foti, DSHA ’74

Grandmother: Catherine Alioto Warren†, HA ’68

Great-grandmother: Virginia Landgraf Halaska†, HA ’48

Great-grandmother: Pauline Wick Warren†, HA ’43

Maeve Pickart, DSHA ’23

Mother: Katie Daily Pickart, DSHA ’84

Grandmother: Kathleen O’Brien Daily†, DS ’60

Grandmother: Mary Woelfel Pickart†, HA ’50

Caelinn Carraher, DSHA ’23

Mother: Kay Tallmadge Carraher, DSHA ’84

Great-Grandmother: Marion Behling Tallmadge†, HA ’21

Maura Foy, DSHA ’23

Grandmother: Bridgid Foy†, HA ’63

Great-grandmother: Rosemary Schwinn Foy, HA ’41

Felicity Giampietro, DSHA ’23

Mother: Mia Cafaro Giampietro, DSHA ’86

Grandmother: Maureen Plotz Cafaro†, HA ’52

Grandmother:

Great-Grandmother:

Grandmother:

Nora McCormick, DSHA ’23

Maureen Doherty Mazurek, DS ’67

Eileen Hanlon Doherty†, HA ’39

Margaret Sweeney, DSHA ’23 Mother: Barbara Harte Sweeney, DSHA ’79

Margaret Ann Schmidt Harte†, HA ’45

Katie Buettner, DSHA ’23

Grandmother: Kathleen Dobrient Buettner, HA ’56

Sarah Daniels, DSHA ’23 Mother: Jennifer Schmidt, DSHA ’83

Quinn Jennings, DSHA ’23 Mother: Deirdre Tobin, DSHA ’87

Madeline Kitowski, DSHA ’23 Mother: Megan Hilger Kitowski, DSHA ’96

Jane Martin, DSHA ’23 Mother: Sarah Schmidt Martin, DSHA ’94

Audrey McCormick, DSHA ’23

Great-Grandmother: Delores Gratz Budny†, HA ’33

Ava Pelz, DSHA ’23 Mother: Susan Stollenwerk Pelz, DSHA ’89

Sophia Sanidas, DSHA ’23

Grandmother: Deborah Osborn Castco, HA ’69

Audrey Watzka, DSHA ’23 Mother: Kelly Brown Watzka, DSHA ’87

Olivia Wigchers, DSHA ’23

Grandmother: Mary Ann Thuemler Wigchers, DS ’58

Bridget Caraher, DSHA ’23

Mother: Gretchen Creten Caraher, DSHA ’93

Halligan Czarnecki, DSHA ’23 Mother: Halligan Parks Czarnecki, DSHA ’91

Elise Daczko, DSHA ’23 Grandmother: Irene Santo Goetz†, HA ’49

Eva Kunz, DSHA ’23 Mother: Vicki Zunker Kunz, DSHA ’93

Lillian Langhoff, DSHA ’23

Grandmother: Helen Shaughnessy Langhoff†, HA ’49

Isabella Lipski, DSHA ’23

Grandmother: Kathleen Potts Weaver, DS ’67

Molly Reardon, DSHA ’23

Mother: Jane Moore Reardon, DSHA ’89

Megan Reilly, DSHA ’23 Mother: Sara Fox Reilly, DSHA ’86

Natalee Roloff, DSHA ’23

Grandmother: Lois Kritter Roloff, HA ’48

Marcy Zimmer, DSHA ’23

Grandmother: Joan Zimmer Cunningham, HA ’64

to share their career journeys with current students on Carla Olle Career Day Alumnae return to DSHA

BY ERIN M c CARVILLE

Carla Olle Career Day has been a stapled tradition for Dashers since its founding in 1995. On March 2, sophomores and juniors gathered in the Robert & Marie Hansen Family Fine Arts Theatre to listen to former Home Economics and Theology Faculty, Coordinator of Student Activities Club, Student Council, and College Advisor Carla La Valle Olle, HA ’60 , speak about the importance of the day where young women set aside time to ask themselves questions about their passions and futures, and hear from role models who were once in their shoes. Following her remarks, students heard from keynote speaker Kristin Branch, DSHA ’92 , who serves as Director of the Marketing Leadership Institute at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Students then attended four DSHA alumna-led breakout sessions based on their career interests. To close the day, students gathered to hear from Rachel Fronk Idso, DSHA ’02 , Senior Manager of Talent Acquisition at Amazon, who spoke about social media and professionalism. At the end of the day, Dashers had time to reflect with their peers in their respective homerooms. They were able to discuss their favorite sessions, what they learned, and dream with one another about their hopes for the future.

The Importance of Exploration

Originally titled Women’s Day, Carla Olle Career Day was renamed upon Olle’s retirement in 2009 to recognize and honor her work in establishing and rooting the day into the fabric of the DSHA experience.

“The college process and picking a career is really hard. Anything you can do to make it less daunting—creating a process for families to follow, designating steps for them to take—is so valuable,” Olle shares of the origin of Career Day.

When speaking with students this spring, Olle highlighted the importance of exploration. Throughout her work, “it was so obvious in high school that you need to have the opportunity to look at every possible career. Any major you choose in college opens the door to a variety of jobs and careers. Don’t leave here today without promising to explore at least two careers.”

Toward the end of her remarks, she reminded Dashers how unique and special this experience is stating, “how lucky you all are that DSHA provides this opportunity for you.”

Piecing Together the Puzzle

Following Olle, Branch took the stage to share her career path and leadership journey with students.

After graduating from the University of Denver with a degree in marketing, Branch held positions at several corporate marketing firms before switching to a career in higher education. She was the Director of Marketing at Wheel & Sprocket, an Associate Brand Manager at GlaxoSmithKline, among other similar positions. In 2002 she received her M.B.A. from UW-Madison and a new world of connectivity and leadership opened up for her.

In 2013, she accepted her current position as the Director of the Marketing Leadership Institue which resides within the Academic Marketing Department at the University of Wisconsin—Madison. While most of her colleagues teach in the classroom, her specific role teaches both inside and outside the classroom, and applies learning activities with the industry.

“I connect with alumni, with the marketing industry itself, and then work with the student to gain exposure and experience. Essentially, I am preparing the student to enter the field upon graduation. For the industry, I market our students' potential to help both sides find the right fit,” she shares.

Early into this role, she knew that it was a best-fit career for herself. She reflected on how a large portion of her position—leading, working individually with students, and serving others—were passions that were shaped during high school at DSHA.

“When I was a DSHA student, I did a lot of student council activities. I loved to organize and lead events. I served in the community and enjoyed helping others. And what I didn’t realize in high school, was that these weren’t just fun things I did outside of class. These qualities were a real part of who I was and what I enjoyed doing.”

Looking back, it makes sense to Branch that she landed in a position that has allowed her to advise, counsel, and help lead students to the profession they are passionate about. She also expressed that it was not always easy to find the right fit quickly. She stated, “a lot of students assume that it’s very formulaic or very simple. It's the combination of all the different puzzles of your life that come together in a unique combination to show you what you want to do.”

Finding the right, unique fit for herself, she encouraged the audience of Dashers to pay attention to what it is that makes them light up. She implored that paying attention will help them solve the puzzles that will lead them to what they might want to do some day.

“Any aspect of who you are can help you discover what you may like to do professionally. Listen to your gut.”

Kristin Branch, DSHA ’92 , speaks to DSHA sophomores and juniors.

Pictured below: Carla La Valle Olle, HA ’60 (L) and Branch (R)

THE DIGITAL AGE & PROFESSIONALISM Be Bold in the Journey

During another component of the day, Senior Management of Talent Acquisition at Amazon Rachel Fronk Idso, DSHA ’02 , spoke to students about social media and professionalism. Living in a digital age, she explained, “a lot of opportunities you will receive will come from people who are connected to you in your social network.” Due to this, it’s important to understand that a “LinkedIn profile represents you as a business professional. Perpetually update your resume and profile with current achievements. Just because you’ve had the same job does not mean you have had the same responsibilities or accolades,” she shared.

Idso also gave the girls tips and tricks for creating the best online profile. Towards the end of her session, she spoke about the fact that DSHA strives to develop young women who are confident when advocating for themselves. She suggested carrying that confidence online and into their future professions.

“I hope that girls will be bold in reinventing themselves along their journey,” she shares.

Rachel Fronk Idso, DSHA ’02

ALUMNAE FEATURE

Connecting Alumnae, Inspiring Students

Bridget Martin Hackbart, DSHA ’08

INTERIOR DESIGNER | Eppstein Uhen Architects, Milwaukee, WI

Hackbart shared that as an interior designer, every day is different when working with clients and other collaborators—whether presenting to clients, putting together a floor plan, creating renderings of spaces, or visiting the construction site. “Public speaking and group collaboration are the most important skills that were nurtured at DSHA that I use almost every day.”

Dr. Erika Hutz, DSHA ’04

GERIATRICIAN | Swedish Medical Group & Hospital, Chicago, IL

Hutz spoke with the girls about her path to medicine and focused on her undergraduate studies, medical school, residency, and fellowship. She shared that medicine is a long road and wanted students to be prepared for the perseverance required if they choose to pursue the field. “My main goal was to show the girls that if they want to be a doctor, they can be a doctor. Fifteen years ago, I was sitting where they sat. DSHA was a great school and prepared me well. DSHA is an even better school now. If I can do it, they can do it.”

Thank you to the following additional alumnae who gave their time and talents to speak with DSHA students at the 2023 Carla Olle Career Day.

Maggie Aasen, DSHA ’11 | ENT Surgical Resident Physician

Lisa Peck Anderson, DSHA ’00 | Registered Dental Hygienist

Renee Gard Aranda, DSHA ’94 | Oncology In-Patient Pharmacist

Katie Weidinger Asher, DSHA ’98 | Mental Health Care Coordinator

Katrice Battle, DSHA ’05 | Photographer

Jessica Burbach Bellows, DSHA ’90 | Asst. District Attorney

Jody Kolter Benson, DSHA ’07 | Writer, Editor, Creative Services & Entrepreneur

Liz Beres DiCosmo, DSHA ’06 | Sr. Interior Designer

Cari Brennan, DSHA ’14 | Asst. Project Manager

Katie Kasdorf Carnell, DSHA ’97 | Underwriting Consultant

Shelley Pfeil Clausen, DSHA ’91 | Lead Nuclear Medicine PET Technologist

Aly Deardorff, DSHA ’12 | Physical Therapist

Erica Pelzek Floyd, DSHA ’04 | Editor in Chief & VP of Communications

Hannah Frank, DSHA ’11 | Occupational Therapist

Aly Fenlon Garcia, DSHA ’11 | Instructional Designer & eLearning Developer

Melanie Metz Goble, DSHA ’97 | Veterinarian & Entrepreneur

Rebecca Harris, DSHA ’15 | Disability Services Coordinator

Natalie Heneghan, DSHA ’11 | Community Outreach Director

Sarah Herbers, DSHA ’17 | Actuarial Analyst

Jaime Jackson Larsen, DSHA ’04 | PhD Candidate in Psychology

Caitlin Wallach Kaeppler, DSHA ’04 | Pediatric Hospitalist Physician

Julie Leack Karasek, DSHA ’90 | Business Owner

Anquanette Kay, DSHA ’11 | Mortgage Specialist

Jane Derdzinski Konieczka, DSHA ’04 | VP of Digital Content

Kerrie Kurtz, DSHA ’98 | Senior Intelligence Officer

Ramani Kutty-Patel, DSHA ’04 | Social Worker

Van Westmoreland Landowski, DSHA ’88 | Financial Advisor

Yamilett Lopez, DSHA ’13 | Attorney

Mary McElwee, DSHA ’86 | Occupational Therapist/Instructor

Emily Wendelberger McGuire, DSHA ’12 | Nursing Supervisor/RN

Paige Miller, DSHA ’10 | Web Marketing Manager

Julia Moran, DSHA ’14 | Mechanical Design Engineer

Nicki Waliszewski Mueller, DSHA ’99 | Veterinarian

Gina LaBarbera Ortiz, DSHA ’14 | Speech & Language Pathologist

Corey Palmer-Rehorst, DSHA ’02 | Associate Director of Analytics & Insights

Veronica Romo, DSHA ’10 | Director of Graduate Support

Katie Lohre Rose, DSHA ’97 | Licensed Professional Counselor & Entrepreneur

Emily Yoss Rowntree, DSHA ’10 | Civil Engineer

Elizabeth Schauer, DSHA ’16 | PhD Candidate in Chemical Engineering

Meghan Schifalacqua Schopp, DSHA ’00 | Director of Education & Ecology

Jane Potter Skalmoski, DSHA ’84 | President & CEO

Alex Stankiewicz Krems, DSHA ’99 | Head of Marketing

Margaret Steinhafel, DSHA ’10 | Global Communications Director

Betsy Stone, DSHA ’10 | Attorney

Carolyn Maciolek Stuard, DSHA ’98 | Global Information & Records Management Senior Analyst

Judie Dalum Taylor, DSHA ’87 | President & CEO

Maria Valentyn, DSHA ’12 | VP of Entertainment

Following the keynote address, sophomores and juniors participated in four breakout sessions each, based on their career interests. These sessions were led by alumnae who spoke about their career journeys, passions, and leadership roles. Each session ended with a Q&A. The following breakout session leaders share a bit about their sessions with current students.

Joan Benes Knight, DSHA ’83

SENIOR ENGINEERING EVALUATOR | Constellation, Atlanta, GA

Knight wanted the students in her sessions to have an understanding of what engineers do on a typical day. “When I was in high school, I had no idea what an engineer did,” she expressed. “My experience of careers was limited to my siblings and immediate family and none of them were engineers. It’s so important to have exposure like this. Anyone who is good in math or science might make a good engineer, but how would they know if not introduced to it?”

Dr. Clarissa Ramos, DSHA ’05 PRINCIPAL | Pigeon River Elementary, Sheboygan, WI

Ramos received her doctorate degree in Leadership for the Advancement of Learning & Service in Higher Education in May of this year. Describing her daily responsibilities and future goals, it was important to her that the young women of DSHA understand that “women of color are capable of achieving success. It’s crucial for them to hear about different career paths, especially from people they can relate to, and see that those careers are attainable for them in the future.”

Mariah Scott, DSHA ’11

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR | Be Moved, New York City, NY

Scott is an artist and entrepreneur who is the creator of her own company, Be Moved , which produces content and events that amplify Black voices and celebrate Black excellence in business and education. She encouraged students to “explore their interests as much as possible. They do not have to marry themselves to one career and they don’t have to have it all figured out at this stage of their lives. There are multiple paths they can take to achieving their goals.”

Annie Topp, DSHA ’16

PRESS SECRETARY | United States Senate, Washington, D.C.

Topp shared how she spends most of her days drafting press releases, working closely with national and local reporters, pitching stories, booking national interviews, and more. She wanted Dashers to dream big. She stated, “when I was in high school, working in D.C. was my dream. However, I had no idea, and was frankly overwhelmed, with how to get there. I encouraged the girls to keep an open mind and push themselves out of their comfort zones, especially in college.”

1 | Jadin O’Brien, DSHA ’20 , won the NCAA Indoor Pentathlon Championship on March 10. Finishing the day with 4512 points, the total earned makes her the number ten collegian of all-time in the pentathlon. Previously, O’Brien has collected personal records in the ACC for the women’s heptathlon, Javelin, high jump, and more. Photo credit: Notre Dame Fighting Irish Athletics.

2 | The biennial Young Playwrights Festival Showcase competition is the culminating event in a series of workshops for several Milwaukee-area students. It provides an opportunity for young playwrights to see their works read and directed by local professional actors and directors. Rocket Baby, written by Anna Nelson, DSHA ’22 , received honorable mention in the competition, along with a professional stage reading at the showcase which ran from March 26–27 at the Broadway Theatre Center Studio.

3 | On March 22, Rachel Fronk Idso, DSHA ’02 , was invited to speak at a TEDxUWMadison event. The theme was "Defining the New Normal," and highlighted how organizations have grown from the lessons learned during the height of COVID-19. An experienced sales and operations leader, Idso is currently serving as the Senior Management of Talent Acquisition at Amazon. She focused her talk on virtual work, self-development, and professional growth. Her full talk can be found at bit.ly/3zU4Vdq

4 | Maura Reardon, DSHA ’20 , is currently skating for Miami (of Ohio) University’s Senior Varsity Synchronized Skating Team. This team is the highest level at which a synchronized skater can compete. In early March, Reardon and her team earned the silver medal at U.S. Nationals where they were named to the World Team. They competed as Team USA in the ISU World Synchronized Skating Championships in Lake Placid March 31–April 1 and placed 6th overall. U.S. Figure Skating selects two teams to represent the United States at Worlds, where they then compete against 23 teams, representing 19 countries. Photo credit: MiamiRedHawks.com.

5 | In April, Madeleine Keane, DSHA ’19 , performed in the Manhattan School of Music's (MSM) Undergraduate Opera Theatre's production of Dido & Aeneas. An opera that contains three acts, and follows the love story of Dido and Aeneas, Keane played the role of Dido's sister Belinda. In an interview, Keane described her experience performing the role, choosing to study voice at MSM, why she chose to go to school in New York, and more. Her full interview can be found at bit.ly/3LhZlYs

6 | Liz Machi, DSHA ’15 , was named the April 2023 Grand Slam Teacher of the Month by the Milwaukee Brewers. This program honors educators from all grade levels and disciplines who are improving student achievement, using innovative strategies in the classroom, and making a difference in the lives of their students. Machi teaches 2nd grade at St. Mary Parish School in Hales Corners, WI.

7 | In 2013, Beth Pollard Hartwig, DSHA ’03 , was running the Boston Marathon with several members of her family. Finishing the race before the bombings started, she was physically safe as were the other members of her family. In the years following, Hartwig felt inspired by other survivors and their stories.

On April 17, 10 years after the bombings, Hartwig went back to run the Boston Marathon in support of Rebekah's Angels, a non-profit organization that was established to provide mental health treatment to children and families suffering from trauma. The organization was founded by Boston Marathon Bombing Survivor Rebekah Gregory, whose journey Hartwig found particularly inspiring. She raised $11,926 for the organization. Photo credit: Milwaukee Catholic Herald.

8 | Tamia Fowlkes, DSHA ’18 , graduated from Columbia University with a Master of Science in Journalism, where she studied audio and video storytelling, healthcare and climate reporting, business, ethics, and more. Upon graduation Fowles received the Richard J. Blood Reporting Award for writing the best investigative, news feature, or hard-news story for her piece called Beat the Heat which analyzed legislation aimed at protecting workers endangered by climate change. This summer she began working at the Washington Post as a general assignment reporting intern.

9 | On May 21, Clarissa Ramos, DSHA ’05 , and Sam Erschen Thurner, DSHA ’05, graduated together again—this time from Cardinal Stritch University with their doctorate degrees in Leadership for the Advancement of Learning and Service.

Pictured: Sam Erschen Thurner, DSHA ’05 (left), and Clarissa Ramos, DSHA ’05

SEND US YOUR NEWS AND PHOTOS!

We want to know what’s happening in your (or fellow alumna’s) life: a degree earned, a new job or promotion, a book written, an honor received, or volunteer work. Let us know about get-togethers, memories and other adventures! Please share with Alumnae Director Danielle Jerominski Rabe, DSHA ’08 at RabeD@dsha.info or 414.616.2808

Alumnae

WHO HAVE PASSED SINCE OUR LAST PUBLICATION:

GRADUATES FROM THE 40 s

Ethel Jane Heisdorf Stephan, HA ’40

January 15, 2023

Patricia Kewley Morgan, HA ’48

February 19, 2023

Shirley Fink Kersey, HA ’48

February 28, 2023

GRADUATES FROM THE 50 s

Justine Leonard, HA ’50

February 2, 2023

Mary Woelfel Pickart, HA ’50

February 22, 2023

Judith Stemper Ohl, HA ’51

December 27, 2022

Adeline Louis Mussa, HA ’52

March 31, 2023

Joan Krier Gehrke, HA ’53

March 4, 2023

Joan Klaus, HA ’55

January 4, 2023

Mary McGrane Trenda, HA ’57

December 16, 2022

Geri Jones-Mantyh, DS ’57

February 2, 2023

Janet Glacken Hamilton, DS ’58

January 28, 2023

Mary Ann Volpe D’Acquisto, DS ’58

February 14, 2023

Adrianne Fogas Ives, DS ’58

April 9, 2023

GRADUATES FROM THE 60 s

Diane Rondeau Baumann, HA ’61

February 13, 2023

Sheila O’Neill Kintzele, HA ’61

April 6, 2023

Jackie Worm, DS ’61

April 27, 2023

Judith Murray, HA ’62

March 23, 2023

Sally Koster Wall, HA ’64

March 4, 2023

Louise Kennedy Poznanski, DS ’65

January 9, 2023

Lynn Knitter DiUlio, DS ’66

February 27, 2023

GRADUATES FROM THE 70 s

Colleen Brost, DSHA ’74

February 20, 2023

Cindy Konen Guenther, DSHA ’79

May 12, 2023

GRADUATES FROM THE 80 s

Beth Scanlon, DSHA ’80

January 22, 2023

Paula Luedtke Fritsch, DSHA ’85

May 8, 2023

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 Weekend

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 5

 ALUMNAE OF THE YEAR STUDENT ASSEMBLY

The 2023 Young Alumna and Alumna of the Year will be honored at this assembly with current students, faculty, and staff.

FRIDAY,OCTOBER 6

 ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME INDUCTION

Newest members will be inducted in a ceremony at DSHA.

 CLASS REUNIONS + HAPPY HOUR

Classes ending in 3 and 8 will celebrate with cocktails and heavy hors d’oeuvres at Zisters in Elm Grove.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 7

 NEW! HOLY ANGELS ACADEMY PLAQUE DEDICATION

A special ceremony will take place at the original HA location on the corner of 12th St. and Kilbourn Ave. in Milwaukee.

 3 rd ANNUAL DASH-TOBER-FEST

All alumnae (plus adult guest) are invited to this outdoor, evening gathering at DSHA with your DSHA/HA/DS sisters—think live music, food trucks, your favorite Oktoberfest beverages, fall vibes, and more!

WHO IS DSHA ALUMNAE WEEKEND FOR?

All Alumnae of DS, HA, & DSHA

Whether you are celebrating 3 or 83 years since graduating from high school, this party is for you and your classmates!

Milestone Reunion Years for Classes

Ending in 3 or 8

We’ll celebrate you with a Friday night cocktail hour and additional fun at Dash-Tober Fest.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 8

 MASS

All alumnae and families are welcome for Mass at DSHA.

 NEW! SERVICE OPPORTUNITY

All alumnae and families (who will not be attending Jubilarian Brunch) are invited to stay after Mass to make PB&J sandwiches to benefit local organizations that serve people facing food insecurity.

 39 th ANNUAL JUBILARIAN BRUNCH

Members of the classes of 1973 and earlier are invited to attend. The Jubilarian of the Year will be honored, and members of the class of 1973 will be inducted as Jubilarians.

D ivine S avior H oly Angels H igh School

D ivine S avior H oly Angels H igh School

S PONSORED BY THE S ISTERS OF THE D IVINE S AVIOR

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

Milwaukee, WI

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE ROBOTICS FIRST ® TEAM 1732 FOR FINISHING THEIR SEASON RANKED IN THE

TOP 5% OF ROBOTICS TEAMS IN THE WORLD!

FIRST® Team 1732 is composed of both DSHA and Marquette University High School students. They competed in the FIRST® World Championship in Houston, TX from April 19–22 and finished the weekend ranking within the top 5% of robotics teams in the world. Throughout their regular season, the team also won the 2023 Wisconsin FIRST® Robotics Regional Competition, the FIRST® Miami Valley Regional Competition, and several Innovation in Control awards that celebrate an innovative control system or application of control components.

Competing at the world level showed me how unique every team and robot can be. When you have three great robots working together on one team, you need to strategize so each robot can play off of each other’s strengths. Amazing results come forth when so many people come together with one shared interest, and it was truly inspirational to see that over the weekend.”

Abigail Bork, DSHA ’23