DUCHESNE ACADEMY OF THE SACRED HEART — OMAHA | SPRING 2026
3601 Burt Street
Omaha, NE 68131
402-558-3800
duchesneacademy.org
Duchesne Academy of the Sacred Heart, a Catholic collegepreparatory independent high school for girls of all faiths and backgrounds, is a member of the Network of Sacred Heart Schools in the United States and Canada. The schools of the Sacred Heart Network share five goals which commit them to educate to:
A personal and active faith in God
A deep respect for intellectual values
A social awareness which impels to action
The building of community as a Christian value
Personal growth in an atmosphere of wise freedom
Editor
Hannah Miller
Copy Editors
Julie Dineen Swartz A’91
Margo O’Connor Bieker A’71
Layout Designer
Josiah Hazel
Photography
Josiah Hazel
Hannah Miller
Student Photography
Adriana Olvera A’26
Ava Owen A’27
Molly Barth A’29
Contributors
Margo O’Connor Bieker A’71
Meg Huerter Brudney A’83
Laura McKee Hickman, Ed.D A’85
Trisha Clark Meehan A’04
Hannah Miller
Julie Dineen Swartz A’91
Sherri Watkins
Printer Aradius
On the Cover
Sarah West A’18 gives a tour of The Stuart Center to Duchesne Principal, Laura McKee Hickman A’85 and Ava Owen A’27
Pictured: Ava Owen A’27
2025-2026
School Year Theme
A HEART THAT ENDURES
Dear Friends of Duchesne,
As we end the 144th academic year at Duchesne Academy, my heart is full of gratitude and awe. It is a rare gift to witness the beautiful and transformative power of a Sacred Heart education; to see the ways in which it shapes lives, strengthens spirits, and prepares young women, and our youngest learners in the preschool, to go forth into the world with courage, confidence, and compassion.
This education has been handed down through generations of Religious of the Sacred Heart who lived the mission with fidelity and love. This year we lost Sister Lucy Hayes, the very last RSCJ to be a part of our Duchesne community. Sister Lucy’s death saddened us all but also gave us a renewed sense of responsibility to carry forward what she so faithfully embodied. That responsibility feels especially present as we enter a season of growth. From our founding to today, each generation has been called to steward what was entrusted to them and to imagine what more could be possible.
This fall we will open a new facility designed to support learning, competition, creativity, and connection for years to come. While the building is new, its purpose is timeless; to educate the whole child and make known the love of the heart of Jesus in our blessed and broken world. We will name this space The Stuart Center in honor of Janet Erskine Stuart, RSCJ, a founding Religious who was known as a great educator.
Throughout this magazine, you will see how the past, present, and future meet. You will encounter stories of thoughtful planning and construction, alumnae (one being my daughter Hannah, A’17) sharing their professional talents with the school that shaped them, and students capturing Duchesne through their own artistic lens. You will read about our youngest learners joyfully living the Sacred Heart Goals, and about alumnae communities gathering across the country as proof that a Duchesne education lasts far beyond graduation.
O Jesus, through the intercession of Saint Madeleine Sophie, Help me discover my gifts in Your love. Transform the world to embrace Your Sacred Heart. Amen.
None of this growth would be possible without the generosity of our donors. Your belief in Duchesne, expressed through your gifts of time, talent, and treasure, has made this moment possible. Thank you for investing in our mission and in the generations of students who will walk these halls.
As you read these pages I hope you feel both the strength of our history and the promise of what lies ahead. Duchesne continues to grow because its heart remains strong.
Sincerely,
Meg Huerter Brudney A'83 Head of School
OnBurt Street
Photo by: Ben Semisch
Photo by: MaddieJ.Photography
Duchesne Academy Class of 2026 post graduation plans:
Marcella Balus
Nora Barth
Gracelynn Bazer
Madeline Bean
Kaitlyn Bodnar
Memphis Bohrer-Arnold
Emma Bruce
Gloria Cabrera
Madeline Caldwell
Victoria Cali
Emma Carlson
Magdalen Carter
Monique Ceballos-Aviles
Anne Cooper
Lauren Cox
Whitney Dahir
Audrey Deane
Myla Downing
Julia Drickey
Maguva Elezai
Delaney Focht
Gretchen Foss
Elizabeth Gibson
Sarvi Gullapalli
Katherine Guy
Elliana Hamilton
Liz Hansen
Mara Hartwig
Sara Henin
Lillianne Hernandez
Genevieve Hertzel
Evelyn Jeffreys
Gabriella Jones
Margaret Kizer
Eva Kneeland
Fordham University
University of Chicago
University of Nebraska at Omaha
Florida State University
Northwestern University
University of Nebraska at Lincoln
Creighton University
Pursuing Life Insurance Career
University of Nebraska at Lincoln
University of Colorado Boulder
Marquette University
Midland University
University of Nebraska at Omaha
Texas Christian University
College of Saint Mary Villanova University
Beloit College
Drake University
Saint Louis University
Creighton University
University of Wyoming
University of Nebraska at Lincoln
Wichita State University
The University of Texas at Dallas
Marquette University
College of Charleston
Metropolitan Community College
University of Kansas
Creighton University
Washington University in St. Louis
Saint Louis University
Gonzaga University
University of Iowa
Santa Clara University
University of Nebraska at Lincoln
Emma Korgie
Wynne Lake
Mallory Logan
Evie Loughran
Catherine Love
Nyayop Makuach
Ann Mammen
Lucia Mason
Ashlyn Morrow
Martha Mullen
Bridget Neuman
Sophia Ochoa
Alexis Ochsner
Adriana Olvera
Clarissa Pavlish
Sophia Pogranicy
Yeira Reza Rivera
Cecilia Rickett
Sylvie Roecker
Adeline Roland
Addison Roseberry
Elizabeth Rudersdorf
Elizabeth Saal
Anyah Samuels
Olivia Schartz
Daphne Schroen
Karmen Sessou
Jieunhelrana Shin
Marcy Soma
Ava Spicka
Esme Surdell
Gia Thrasher
Elizabeth Tran
Hushai Yarbro
Bridget Youngblood
University of Nebraska at Omaha
Gonzaga University
University of Nebraska at Omaha
University of Wisconsin-Madison
University of Nebraska at Lincoln
University of Nebraska at Omaha
Purdue University
Soka University of America
Creighton University
Johns Hopkins University
Creighton University
Grinnell College
University of Utah
Metropolitan Community College
Loyola University Chicago
Gonzaga University
University of Nebraska at Lincoln
Lawrence University
University of Nebraska at Lincoln
Iowa State University
University of Oklahoma
Miami University in Oxford
Creighton University
University of Nebraska at Lincoln
Creighton University
Augustana College
University of Nebraska
Creighton University
University of Nebraska at Lincoln
Creighton University
St. Olaf College
University of Puget Sound
Clemson University
Saint Louis University
Loyola University Chicago
winners Prize 2026
Nora Barth StuartCreativityAward
N
ora will be attending the UniversityofChicago to pursue a degree in Creative Writing.
Lauren Cox SpiritofKindnessAward
Lauren will be attending CollegeofSt.Mary to pursue a degree in Elementary Education.
Whitney Dahir OutstandingAthlete
W
hitney will be attending Villanova University to pursue a degree in Biology.
Gretchen Foss DuchesnePrize
Gretchen will be attending the UniversityofNebraskaLincoln to pursue a degree in Animal Science.
Mad Bean StuartCreativityAward
M
ad will be attending Florida State University to pursue a degree in Public Relations.
Anne Cooper AliTupper SportsmanshipAward
A
nne will be attending TexasChristianUniversity to pursue a degree in Movement Science.
Bridget Neuman SuccessinStudies
Bridget will be attending the CreightonUniversity to pursue a degree in Exercise Science.
Photo
by Margo O’Connor Bieker A’71
With the construction of Duchesne’s new athletic complex and commons, now known as The Stuart Center, the community is reminded of the Academy’s rich history on Burt Street. In 1881, two Sacred Heart nuns gazed at the harsh Nebraska prairie and saw a glimmer of something promising. They saw the hopes and dreams of generations of brilliant young women, the progression of a community over the decades, and the opportunity to instill a Heritage of the Heart.
ur story begins in 1880, when Bishop James A. O’Connor purchased twelve acres for $2,533 and sold it to the RSCJ for $1.00. The roads were rut-filled and dusty, with no homes in sight, and the promised land was a mass of tangled weeds with a huge incline to the west, but the RSCJ were undeterred.
By 1882, the original building, Park Place, was made of brick and cut stone measuring 114 feet long, 81 feet wide, and five stories high.
In 1887, the Society built a four-story addition to match the north wing on the south end of the building which provided a new chapel, refectory, study hall, and dormitories.
Construction began on Saint Cecilia Cathedral in 1906. The Cathedral and Duchesne’s Chapel were both designed by Thomas Kimball. Duchesne’s Chapel was dedicated in 1910.
On Easter Sunday, March 23, 1913, a tornado destroyed the entire north side of the convent, leaving a gaping hole. Miraculously no one was hurt. The students were home for Easter vacation and the nuns were in the Chapel finishing Benediction, when the damage swept through the Chapel.
The nuns received assistance from nearby priests and Catholic neighbors whose homes were not damaged. The Jesuit Rector of Creighton University arranged for the Religious to stay at Saint Joseph’s Hospital and the Franciscan Sisters also provided assistance to the RSCJ. Duchesne’s newly restored campus reopened as a Liberal Arts College in 1915.
The new college wing, which included a gym, dormitories, and classrooms, was added to the northeast corner of the building in 1920. The formal title was also changed to Duchesne College and Convent of the Sacred Heart. Nine years later, construction commenced on another new college wing. Designed by Jacob Nachtigal, student of Thomas Kimball. The addition included an auditorium, classrooms, science labs, and a dormitory. The Chapel was extended to the west and fitted with the F.W. Zettler, Bavarian designed stained-glass windows from the Pine Grove Sacred Heart School in Chicago.
Duchesne first welcomed its youngest learners with a kindergarten and preschool for boys and girls in 1950. The Mother Eleanor Regan Elementary School aopened in 1959 and closed with the Preschool in 1972.
In 1983 Duchesne’s athletics program reached new heights with the construction of the Margaret Hynes Gym. By 1996, soccer players began using the new soccer field on campus rather than offsite. This improvement project also included construction of the grotto and courtyard.
In 1999 Duchesne Preschool reopened to boys and girls in the former Regan Elementary School space. Over the next four years the Academy would add new offices, five classrooms, and a large music space on the north side of Duchesne..
The biology, physics, and chemistry labs were restored in 2005. The Art Department was then relocated to accommodate the renovations. The new art classrooms are now on the third floor with a kiln, studios, dark room, and digital photography lab. An athletic fitness center with a weight room and locker rooms were all completed in the former Regan building and gym.
From 2010 to 2013, a barrier-free south entrance was installed, and a five-story elevator in the theater lobby was constructed. The sprinkler system, catering kitchen, and student cafeteria were updated. The Preschool playground was relocated and updated.
In 2016, the Duchesne community rejoiced when air-conditioning and heating were installed throughout the entire school for the first time.
The former Auditorium was also renovated in 2023, to create the Caffrey-Ryan Theater. The state-of-the-art facility includes improved staging, sound, and lighting as well as ramped guest seating.
As part of the Campus Master Plan, the Duchesne Chapel was renovated in 2023 with the original Thomas Kimball design of fleur-delis wall stencils behind the main alter and the side altars were returned. The Stations of the Cross were repainted with white and gold, and a new Italian marble altar was installed. In 2024, the Heider Family Foundation donated specialized lighting for the Chapel.
In 2024, Duchesne Academy broke ground on Phase II of the Campus Master Plan which includes the construction of an athletic complex and commons area. This area will be known as The Stuart Center in honor of Janet Erskine Stuart, RSCJ. It will open before the start of the 2026-27 academic year.
by Hannah Miller
ALUMNAE AT THE HEART
Modern meets tradition in Duchesne Academy’s new athletic complex and commons thanks to the work of several contractors, designers, and engineers. The Stuart Center will feature details designed in part by two Duchesne alumnae and photography by current students.
Sarah West A’18 Interior Designer, BVH Architecture
Sarah West started working for BVH Architecture in 2022. She was assigned to Duchesne’s A Bold Step Forward project in 2023.
“As designers we really try to understand the client and the culture we’re designing for,” West explained. “I love this beautiful, historic building, I love this school, and I’m excited to work on it.”
West developed a love for interior design as a little girl, imagining different furniture arrangements in various rooms. She took Doug Schroder’s interior design course while attending Duchesne, which she said solidified her decision to pursue design as a career. She graduated from Kansas State University with a bachelor’s degree in interior design.
“I love this field because it’s a mix of creativity and technicality, which is how my brain works,” she laughed.
West is part of a team of designers and architects focused on connecting the bold new facility with the historic elements of Duchesne’s existing campus. One standout design can be seen in the Commons. Flowers from the Sacred Heart crest design will be on a few windows looking into the kitchen.
The crest flowers will also frame the Sacred Heart of Jesus statue from the previous courtyard, which will be a focal point in the
Commons. Other features including terrazzo floors, exposed brick, and wood paneling will help connect Duchesne’s beautiful, historic building with the new.
“We wanted to keep part of the courtyard and outdoor space for the girls,” West said.
A’30 will be the first class to enjoy The Stuart Center for all four years. West’s younger sister, Monica, will be part of this historic class. West said she has asked Monica for her opinion on some of her work.
“During the design process, we thought about future students and staff, and it’s so fun that my sister is included in that,” West said.
She said she is most excited to see the entire facility come together.
“I feel very lucky to be a part of a project that is so important to me this early in my career,” she said. “My work is like a ‘thank you’ to the people who made my experience at Duchesne so great.”
Hannah Brudney A’17
Interior Designer, Sheppard’s Business Interiors
Hannah Brudney A’17’s tie to Duchesne’s A Bold Step Forward campaign is two-fold. She’s an interior designer for Duchesne’s furniture supplier, Sheppard’s Business Interiors (SBI). Not only is she an alumna, but she is also the daughter of Head of School Meg Huerter Brudney A’83.
“It’s fun to put a touch on the school that I love so dearly,” she said. “It’s an extra special factor that my mom is the Head of School.”
At a young age, Brudney began making floor plans of her bedroom. Like West, she took Schroder’s interior design course while studying at Duchesne.
“That course gave me a hands-on understanding of what interior design is,” she explained. “I enjoyed it a lot and I’m glad Duchesne has it.”
Brudney graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 2021 with a bachelor’s degree in interior design. As a designer with SBI, she works with clients like BVH Architecture to find furniture that works well for new spaces.
“I know how much effort it has taken Duchesne to get to this point, so it’s exciting to see it come to fruition,” Brudney said.
The collaborative group focused on how to best accommodate Duchesne’s Sacred Heart learning environment. For example, administrators asked for chairs that didn’t have individual legs. Sled-based chairs will keep students from tipping back and falling.
“It’s important to have flexibility as times change and as education changes with it,” Brudney said.
In the new athletic complex, there will be a skybox-style area looking out to the soccer field. The collaborative group chose a statement piece for that niche space.
Another consideration was durability. The ottomans that will accompany lounge chairs in The Stuart Center are a vinyl material to help combat wear and tear.
“I know speaking from experience in the senior lounge, it will be nice for students to sit on something new and made just for them,” Brudney said.
“I hope the girls love it.”
STUDENT PHOTOGRAPHERS SHOWCASED
Duchesne’s new athletic complex will also showcase student photography taken by the DASH Athletics Media Team. In collaboration with BVH, Renze Display created two large sound panel covers that will hang on the walls of the gymnasium. These sound panel covers will be a collage of photos taken between 2024-2026 featuring every sport at Duchesne.
Leading into the locker room area, an incredible wall of photographs dating back to the early 1900’s through today will honor the female athletes of the past and present.
Student photographers with work in the facility are Adriana Olvera A’26, Olivia Macias A’27, and Ava Owen A’27
id you know there’s a simple way to support Duchesne Academy while also being thoughtful about your taxes? For some donors, giving through an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) can turn a required step into a meaningful gift that makes a real difference for our students.
You may benefit from tax laws related to charitable giving as it applies to individuals with IRAs who have reached the required minimum distribution age. This is a simple, taxsmart way to make a meaningful impact: directing your IRA’s Required Minimum
Distribution (RMD) to Duchesne Academy. By making a qualified charitable distribution, you can satisfy your RMD while potentially reducing your taxable income. This win/win strategy turns a mandatory withdrawal into a purposeful gift to Duchesne. If you are looking for a way to support a mission you care about while also maximizing the benefits of your retirement assets, this approach is worth considering.
Please discuss this possibility with your tax advisor or attorney to determine how this strategy might benefit you, and ultimately the young women of Duchesne Academy. If you do not currently have a tax advisor and wish to speak to one, please contact Katie Risch Bakhit at kbakhit@duchesneacademy.org for a referral to a professional in this field.
by Julie Swartz A’91
Joyful Hearts
After attending the EmPOWER Youth Summit, sponsored by the Kim Foundation, Duchesne Academy students Addy Roseberry A’26 and Adriana Olvera A’26 recognized a need for a club at Duchesne devoted to the well-being of students. They heard about Hope Squad clubs at other schools but wanted a group that uniquely fit Duchesne.
Together with Duchesne Academy Guidance Counselor Krissy Hassett Walsh A’05, Roseberry and Olvera started Joyful Hearts last year with the intention of bringing awareness and happiness to students at Duchesne.
“Mental health shouldn’t have a stigma, we are all impacted by it,” said Olvera. “By opening the door to mental health awareness, that can be lessened.”
The student-run club plans monthly, school-wide activities designed to build community and help students take a break to bond with each other. Students in Joyful Hearts planned various activities that are tied to awareness months such as kindness pins during Kindness Awareness Month and positive sidewalk chalk messages during Suicide Awareness Month. The club also organized an Easter egg hunt with plastic eggs full of positive affirmations for students from the Preschool and the Academy.
“Feeling connected in real life can be hard, and if you feel like you don’t fit in or belong anywhere, it is easy to retreat online,” said Roseberry.
Walsh said Joyful Hearts is a Goal 4 club (the building of community as a Christian value), dedicated to providing fun activities that instill hope, build connections, and illustrate that students and adults in the building care about their mental health and wellness.
“I see an eagerness among Duchesne students to help their peers,” said Walsh. “They are compassionate and they see their friends struggling and just need the skills and resources to know how to help.”
Joyful Hearts will continue to grow as a strong presence at Duchesne. Twenty-three students attended the EmPOWER Youth Summit this Spring, and interest in participation for the club is strong.
“Hanging out for one common activity with different people can mean so much to someone,” said Olvera. “I feel proud to see girls get involved with living out the message we started.”
“We are promoting a message that you matter and this has positively impacted me because I am not just saying it, but living it out,” said Roseberry. “We want students to know that it is OK to not always be OK.”
Duchesne Preschool adopted “Goals Week” to teach the Five Sacred Heart Goals and Criteria to Pre-K learners. Teachers Jessica Gorup Flohr A’11 and Lauren Kelley implemented the idea after attending a Network Symposium presentation by Molly Nuell (Carrollton School of the Sacred Heart) last Fall.
They chose the week of November 17-21 to coincide with Saint Philippine Duchesne’s Feast Day. Each day featured goals adapted for preschool children, a Duchesne community guest reader, and hands-on activities. Afterward, students wrote about their experiences in heart-shaped Goal Booklets.
“It’s easier for kids this age to understand the goals with an activity tied to them,” Flohr said. “As an alumna, it’s great to see it pared down to this level with the same Goals and same mission.”
Guest
1
Students painted a “Five Finger Prayer”, a concept created by Pope Francis. Each finger represented someone to pray for. They also toured the Duchesne Chapel and created a gratitude jar filled with hearts.
Goals Week 2goal
LOVE TO LEARN
On Saint Philippine Duchesne’s Feast Day the Preschool students opened the Academy’s prayer service with a song. After the service Preschool students wrote something they are curious about and stuck it on the “Wonder Wall”.
HELP THE NEEDY goal
goal LOVE GOD goal
Throughout the week students collected canned goods to learn the importance of helping those experiencing hunger. They also made a helping chain where students gave examples of how they can help others.
Build Community
Students created flower bouquets to deliver to the Portresses, Dr. Laura Hickman, and Meg Brudney. Both Pre-K classes played games on the tennis courts in the spirit of teamwork.
goal
Learn Right from Wrong
3 4 5
On the last day, the Pre-K classes created a mural in the shape of a heart using their handprints. They sang the Five Goals song and showed off their Sacred Heart Booklets. They also created Thanksgiving placemats with the Academy students.
Guest Reader: Meg Huerter Brudney A’83, Head of School
Reader: Rachel Bost, Preschool Director
Guest reader: Scott Quinn, Duchesne Director of Campus Ministry
Guest reader: Dr. Laura McKee Hickman A’85, Duchense Academy Principal
COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS LEAD TO REAL SOLUTIONS
by Julie Swartz A’91
Duchesne students in the Design Academy class this spring participated in a unique community partnership program to find solutions for real life challenges. Working in pairs, they collaborated with Duchesne alumnae or community members to apply the skills they learned in class to a real situation.
“Their goal for the project is to address a problem that their community member has and create a solution for them,” said Susan Proulx-Herron, STEAM Teacher. “This project focuses on communication and problem-solving skills and allows students to experience what it would be like to design something for a client.”
Adriana Olvera A’26 and Lizzy Medina A’27 partnered with author and Duchesne alumna Dr. Meaghann Weniger Weaver A’99. Weaver, a pediatric hospice physician and pediatric oncologist with St. Jude’s Hospital in Memphis, co-authored a book titled TheTwistsandTurnsoftheSiblingSnail Trail designed to help siblings of terminally ill children cope with their family’s situation.
“I was so impressed with the STEAM lab on a recent visit to Duchesne, so when I saw the announcement about partnering with students in the class I jumped,” said Weaver. “People in the fields of science and medicine can still use their creativity, and Adriana and Lizzy both clearly have a love for science and art, so we made a great team.”
During their initial meeting to discuss potential projects connected to the book, Weaver shared that siblings of terminally ill children are often overlooked. The hospital is typically the last place they see their brother or sister, and the book is a small way to ease the stress for siblings.
“I had no preconceived notions for the project and Adriana and Lizzy came up with the idea of creating items with the characters in the book,” said Weaver. “I was absolutely blown away by their ideas.”
The students created prototypes of customizable journals, Sage the Snail pencil toppers, bookmarks, and other items designed to give children an outlet for their emotions.
“After meeting with Dr. Weaver and hearing about the book, I was really excited about this project because it is not just about the child who is ill, but we could focus on the siblings who really don’t get much light,” said Medina. “I feel proud because I think our project will have a lasting impact on families.”
Olvera shared her favorite thing about the book is that each character has a different lesson to correspond with a feeling or a situation. “Working on this project made me feel like I did something more - we do community service all the time, but this is bigger,” she said. “I feel like I have actually done something to help someone, especially because it is pediatrics, it made me feel fulfilled."
Weaver received a grant from the B+ Foundation that allows her to provide the book and accompanying items created by Olvera and Medina to families at no cost. More than 500 books have been donated so far. You can request a copy of the book, and access additional free resources at www.thesiblingsnail.trail.com.
Pictured L-R: Adriana Olvera A’26
Lizzy Medina A’27
THE THE WHY BEHIND THE ABOUT
BOOK BOOK
distant. Literature, however, speaks in a language of humanity. Through characters and plots, readers find reflections of their own struggles and glimpses of resilience. A child who feels isolated in their illness may discover companionship in a fictional hero who faces adversity with courage. A parent overwhelmed by grief may find solace in a poem that articulates what they cannot yet say aloud.
When Sage’s sister becomes sick, everything feels confusing. Guided by a wise turtle, Sage travels to the magical Sibling Snail Trail and meets new friends who share their own stories of having an ill sibling. With each twist and turn, Sage discovers comfort and courage and learns the true meaning of being a good sibling.
The therapeutic value of sharing storybooks lies in a book’s ability to normalize emotions and foster empathy. Reading allows children and those who love them to step outside their immediate reality while simultaneously deepening their understanding of it. In pediatric care, we often recommend age-appropriate books that address themes of hope, loss, and perseverance. These stories do not erase suffering, but they frame it within a narrative arc that offers perspective and possibility. Our storybooks are not confined to the patient alone; they extend to families and clinicians. For caregivers, literature can provide language for conversations that feel impossible. For healthcare teams, stories remind us of the person behind the diagnosis, rekindling compassion in the midst of clinical routines.
As pediatric care providers, we have witnessed the power of words to soothe, connect, and heal. Bibliotherapy—the intentional use of literature for therapeutic purposes—is not simply about reading books; it is about creating bridges between lived experiences and the narratives that help us make sense of them. In our work and in our lives, we recognize how stories can become lifelines, offering comfort when medicine cannot, and extending meaning.
Our storybooks operate on a simple yet profound principle: stories matter. When a child or sibling faces serious illness, or a family navigates the uncertainty of prognosis, the clinical language of charts and scans often feels cold and
In a time dominated by technology and rapid interventions, storybooks invite us to slow down and listen—to words, to stories, and to each other. Storybooks are gentle yet powerful tools that affirm the truth we hold dear: healing is not only about curing disease; it is about nurturing the soul.
Pictured: Dr. Meaghann Weniger Weaver A’99 and daughter Bravery
BASKETBALL
The Cardinals made it to the second round of the B-6 District Tournament this season. Duchesne defeated Schuyler High School 65-18 but ultimately lost their chance to the State Tournament after falling to Beatrice. Jada James A’27 led the Cardinals in scoring with 385 points and 61 assists this season.
SWIM/DIVE
Duchesne’s swimming and dive team finished its most successful season since 2021 with a 16th place finish at the all-class Nebraska Swimming and Diving Championships. Olivia Enenbach A’29 led the team with a 6th place podium finish in the 100 Breaststroke and 13th place in the 200 IM. River Cities Conference Diving champion, Molly Wurth A’27, led divers with a 7th place podium finish at State in the 1M Diving competition.
DANCE
The DASH Dazzlers celebrated a trip to Nationals after earning 7th in Jazz and 9th in Pom at the State Competition. They danced against 20 teams in the Pom category at State and also received an award for academic excellence.
BOWLING
The Cardinals were the 2026 District Bowling RunnerUp Champions! Katie Guy A’26 placed 8th in the Individual Class B District Tournament, earning her a medal in the competition.
WinterSports Recap
Pictured: Lizzie Tran A’26
SpringSports Recap
SOCCER
Duchesne finished a strong season in the District Final against Blair High School. The Cardinals record rounded out to be 9-8 with Josie Quattrocchi A’27 as the lead scorer with 12 goals followed by Anne Cooper A’26 with 6 goals. Goalie Macey Kock A’27 made 57 saves with 4 shut-out victories.
LACROSSE
The Cardinals finished their season with a 5th place ranking. This is the highest season ranking in program history! Evalena Matthias A’29 was selected for the Midwest Girls Lacrosse League First Team. Daphne Schroen A’26 and Old Chvala A’28 were selected for the Second Team.
TRAPSHOOTING
Libby Saal A’26 placed 7th overall (male and female) in the 20-21 handicap yardage at the Cornhusker State Trapshoot. She received the 2026 Coaches’ Award which is given to the senior believed to best exemplify the integrity, sportsmanship, and leadership that the Marian/DASH trap team values.
TENNIS
Duchesne Academy was crowned the River Cities Conference Champion this spring! Maggie Sauer A’27 and Elle Weiland A’27 were #1 Doubles Champions, while Annabel Blake A’29 celebrated her #1 Singles Championship win. Kennedy Creath A’28 and Claire Caskey A’28 earned #2 Doubles Runner-Ups, while Adeline Beller A’27 was #2 Singles Runner-Up.
TRACK & FIELD
The Duchesne/Roncalli Track and Field Team were named River Cities Conference Runner-Ups this season. Zelie Niehaus A’28 competed at the Track State Championship in the 100m and 200m. Elizabeth Gibson A’26 competed in the 300m Hurdles at State.
by Hannah Miller
Behind Queens the
Six queens reigned supreme as Duchesne Academy’s production of “SIX: THE MUSICAL Teen Edition” ignited a buzz throughout the community. Behind the scenes, artists put their creativity to work to make this an unforgettable show.
When Theater Director Thomas Becker asked Izabella Trenhaile A’28 to create artwork for Duchesne’s spring musical, she originally thought he was trying to make her feel better because she was sick at home with the flu.
“Mr. Becker asked me to base the art off graffiti art with colorful backgrounds and black and white subjects,” Trenhaile explained. “I just winged it!”
Trenhaile said her love for art began at 8-years-old with a simple crayon and paper. Now a skilled artist, Trenhaile created background art and portraits of Henry VIII’s six wives for the show. The portraits featured the faces of the Duchesne actresses.
“The hardest queen to draw was Katherine Howard,” Trenhaile said. “I had to get the cross-hatching just right or I wouldn’t be satisfied with it.”
Trenhaile’s artwork hung on the stage during the performances. Fans also had an opportunity to purchase stationary, t-shirts, and stickers of the queens’ portraits during the shows.
“My jaw dropped when I saw the set,” Trenhaile said. “I saw the queens’ faces on the stage and it really sunk in that Mr. Becker was serious about my work.”
On stage, the queens’ performances came alive through their voices and costumes. Costume designer Hope Hertzel A’26 created each piece alongside her assistant Milo Schlattman A’27. Her impressive handdrawn renderings of the costumes were printed onto t-shirts and stationery along with Trenhaile’s art.
“When Mr. Becker asked me to design costumes for “SIX: THE MUSICAL Teen Edition”, it was a way for me to live out my childhood dream of becoming a fashion designer,” Hertzel said. “I was excited for the opportunity to create something unique.”
Both Hertzel and Trenhaile were honored for their creative work at Duchesne’s 3rd Quarter Honors Assembly. Each received a Courage and Confidence award from Duchesne faculty and staff as well as a Goal 5 Award from the Student Council.
“When I walked up, I thought ‘Wow! I didn’t expect all this recognition,” Trenhaile laughed. “I expected maybe to stand up, not two whole awards.”
Hertzel graduated in May and plans to study marketing at St. Louis University. Trenhaile, a rising junior, plans to take AP Studio Art and is looking into art as a potential career.
Saturday, January 23 OR Saturday, January 30
(Date will be confirmed in the Fall, following the release of the full Creighton basketball schedule)
Congé 2027 will be a celebration of 50 years of Congé, and all past Congé Chairs will be honored at the event. Wecan’twaittocelebratethismilestoneeventwithyou! For information on the event or how you can support Congé 2027, scan the code or visit dashomaha.org/conge of the H�rt
L-R: Rob and Erin Fogarty Owen A’89 Mike and Emily Langdon Jung A’96 Gustavo and Christie Gleason Oberto A’89
InThe Network
Pictured L-R:
Laura McKee Hickman A’85
Sarah West A’18
Ava Owen A’27
SHEILA’S SACRED HEART JOURNEY
It’s been more than 10 years since former Head of School, Sheila Haggas, retired from her post at Duchesne Academy of the Sacred Heart. God had another plan for Haggas, keeping her close to the Sacred Heart. We asked Sherri Watkins, Coordinator of Member Services with the Network of Sacred Heart Schools, to give us an update on how Haggas’ career has shifted since departing Duchesne.
When Sheila Haggas shared that she was retiring from Duchesne Academy in June 2015 after twenty years as the school’s first lay Head of School, she did so with both joy and sadness as she couldn’t imagine daily life without her connection to Sacred Heart and Duchesne. She didn’t have to wait long to learn that her Sacred Heart journey was not ending, but taking a new path.
“I was attending my last Membership Meeting in April when Sister Ann Taylor, chair of the Sacred Heart Commission on Goals (SHCOG), approached me and asked me to join. I said ‘yes’ immediately,” Haggas said.
She said being a chair on a SHCOG visit was one of her proudest moments since “coming out of retirement”.
“The team engages with all of the constituency groups of a school to learn how they live the Goals & Criteria and how they hope to live them more fully in the future,” Haggas explained. “Being a member of SHCOG has made me a better leader and a better person.”
Haggas said her journey deepened further when she received a call in January 2022 asking her to consider becoming the interim Executive Director of the Network.
“The call was unexpected but a timely blessing to me,” she said.
By July, Haggas said she was loving every aspect of her new role and permanently became the Network’s Executive Director.
Throughout her career, Haggas returned to one guiding conviction: everything begins with relationships.
“From the moment I first read about Saint Madeleine Sophie, I understood that transformation in education happens through deep and meaningful relationships,” she said. “If you don’t really listen, you miss the opportunity to form a genuine relationship, and that’s where all meaningful transformation begins.”
Haggas’s leadership has helped expand student and adult programming, strengthen cross-school collaboration, and celebrate the Network’s 50Years United in Mission across the U.S. and Canada.
“I am deeply blessed to work with so many people who are fully invested in the mission of Sacred Heart education,” Haggas explained. “It is heart-warming when people say ‘yes’ when asked to help plan and facilitate Network activities.”
When asked what she’d like former Duchesne students to know, Haggas answered with characteristic tenderness: “I mention Duchesne Academy, Omaha, all the time. Duchesne is where I discovered the world of Sacred Heart, where I saw it beautifully and authentically lived. That
by Laura McKee Hickman, Ed.D A’85
Lessons In Catholic Social Teaching Lessons in
InSophie’s Gift, Sister Cooke writes: “as educators, we commit to listening deeply to the cries of humanity and creation, and to responding with compassionate action with a preference for the most fragile and vulnerable."
atholic Social Teaching is foundational to our Sacred Heart Charism. Suzanne Cooke, RSCJ, Head to the U.S.- Canada Province has shared she wants every school, educator, administrator, student, and family to have this understanding. Sister Cooke formed a committee in 2024 to develop curriculum and professional development for schools in the Sacred Heart Network to use.
Catholic Social Teaching (CST) involves seven guiding principles:
• Dignity of the Human Person
• Call to Family, Community, and Participation
• Option for the Poor
• Rights and Responsibilities
• Dignity and Rights of Workers
• Care for God’s Creation
• Solidarity
Understanding these teachings and making them part of our lived faith has long been the senior capstone theology class. Recently, Sister Cooke asked that educators take these experiences beyond senior theology and embed CST across the curriculum.
This spring, Duchesne Academy faculty attended two sessions with Suzanne Cooke, Meg Causey, RSCJ, and Newton Country Day theology teacher, Dr. Mark Potter to better understand our Sacred Heart mission with the CST curriculum. Faculty and staff spent a retreat day and a follow-up session discussing ways to bring our values to life in every class of a student’s high school journey.
Along with the CST curriculum, the Society of the Sacred Heart offered a process by which we can discern the very complicated questions presented in our modern world. CST offers direction; it does not offer the answer to racism, right to life, climate change, just wages, war, or any other difficult social problem. The Sacred Heart Way is a circular process of pausing, reflecting, discerning, deciding, and acting.
Lucille “Lucy” Hayes, RSCJ
July 21, 1929 - January 29, 2026
It is with a heavy heart we share the passing of Lucille "Lucy" Hayes, RSCJ. She went to her Heavenly reward on January 29, 2026. Sister Lucy faithfully served Duchesne Academy of the Sacred Heart for 33 years before moving to the Oakwood Retirement Community in Atherton, California.
by Margo O’Connor Bieker A’71
Born in Denison, Iowa, Sister Lucy Hayes enrolled in Duchesne College in 1948. She entered the Society of the Sacred Heart following her graduation in 1951, made her first vows in 1954, and final profession in 1960. Remarkably, Sister Lucy’s final profession occurred on her birthday, July 21, a true celebration.
Sister Hayes's principal ministry was teaching. After graduating with a Bachelor of Arts from Duchesne College, she went on to earn a master’s degree in history from San Francisco College for Women (Lone Mountain), and a Master of Divinity in Liturgical Studies from the Jesuit School of Theology, Berkeley. From 1955 to 1982, she taught in seven Sacred Heart Schools across the country. In 1983, she returned to Duchesne Academy in Omaha and served in various roles including educator, archivist, sacristan, and portress.
Sister Hayes's role as sacristan captured her heart. In the sacred serenity of the sacristy, she worked with love and reverence, preparing the Mass, clergy vestments, sacred vessels, and the Roman Missal. Sister Hayes devoted herself to protecting the celebrations that sustain the Catholic faith. In 2023, Duchesne Academy formally dedicated its sacristy to Lucy Hayes, RSCJ.
Sister Lucy was one of the last RSCJ at Duchesne, and her quiet, steady presence shaped our community in many ways. Whether straightening paintings in the halls, pressing sacristy linens,or praying for us in the chapel,she cared for our school with a humble devotion that often went unnoticed but never unfelt. Her presence was the gift. The day I learned she would be moving to California, and we would no longer have RSCJ at Duchesne was very, very sad for me.
Sister Lucy Hayes said that she felt very 'at home’ here at Duchesne and especially loved the prayerful life she learned as a novitiate. During her early years, the Religious practiced a cloistered life of prayer and silence, which appealed to Sister Lucy. This is why when walking past the Duchesne Chapel we saw Sister Lucy seated in quiet prayer, a living example of Saint Philippine’s fortitude, courage, humility, and perseverance.
— Katie Grudle Theology Chair
— Meg Huerter Brudney A’83 Head of School
Lucy Hayes was my friend and mentor. She tutored me in the archives, ensuring we properly maintained the records. Mostly, I loved to hear her laugh; it was a cute chuckle. She helped me with the Saint Philippine perpetual calendar, finding appropriate quotes to include.I took her to Mass at Creighton, out to lunch when we felt like it, and to see the latest Harry Potter movie. Lucy was real. We were good friends, and I will miss her forever.
— Margo O’Connor Bieker A’71 Volunteer Archivist
For the better part of 16 years, Sister Lucy was the first person I saw each morning when I entered Portry. I was blessed to be greeted with a smile, to have stimulating conversations about the books we were reading, to hear stories of her life in the Society, and to ask about how my family was doing. Sister Lucy will always be one of the first women I think of whenever I hear the letters ‘RSCJ’.
Lucy loved to share what she had read. We had some great conversations about current literature. She will be missed all over the building; the library will especially miss her presence. It will not be the same without her.
— Mary-Ellen Doyle Librarian
— Eric Krakowski Assistant Principal
Alumnae News
Dear Alumnae,
There are moments when you walk through campus and can feel the significance of what is unfolding; usually these moments are predictably centered around our timeless traditions. Recently, I had one of those moments on an otherwise typical Thursday afternoon. As I walked through The Stuart Center during one of the monthly construction tours for faculty and staff, I was truly in awe. The light pouring into the new Commons, the performance gym with an incredible weight room and walking track, the first coat of red paint showing through in some areas - it was incredible. Even in its unfinished state, the facility already feels like a place where connection, belonging, and the Sacred Heart spirit will thrive.
I was especially moved by the thoughtful care our architects, designers, and school leaders have taken to honor our history while boldly looking ahead. Seeing the exposed brick from our original building and wood accents incorporated on the handrails reminded me that this space is not a departure from our past, but is a continuation of our legacy.
Alumnae Board members and I are especially excited that this space will play a central role in our alumnae community right after construction is complete. We will kick off Reunion Weekend by celebrating the building completion with a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Thursday, September 10, 2026, leading into our usual Reunion events of Wine and Cheese on Friday, September 11 and Reunion Mass and Brunch on Saturday, September 12. The meal will take place in The Stuart Center!
This new space is more than a building project. It is an investment in HERstory. It will shape the experiences of women for generations to come. Students will gather here to learn, lead, and discover their significance, and alumnae will return to campus and immediately feel at home.
As we continue our campaign, I invite you to consider how you can be part of this moment. A gift to this project is more than a donation; it is a lasting expression of belief in women, education, and recognition that Sacred Heart values can transform the world. Your generosity ensures that this space will not only be beautiful, but purpose-filled for decades to come.
Thank you for being part of this extraordinary community. I hope you will consider helping us write this next chapter of HERstory, and that you will join us soon in this space, where our past, present, and future will come together beautifully.
With gratitude,
Trisha Clark Meehan A’04 Alumnae Relations Director
L to R: Alicia Smith Hollins A’97, Katie Risch Bakhit A’94, Alli Pane Guiney A’07, Maggie Crnkovich VanMoorleghem A’06, Natalie Strawhecker Matuella A’14, Hannah Tjaden A’12, Cara Gomez Zimmer A’09, Emily Kemp A’83, Elizabeth Billings A’18, Trisha Clark Meehan A’04
THE ACROSS COUNTRY
DASH Across the Country events continued this winter and early spring with alumnae gatherings hosted in Oregon, Dallas, Arizona, and San Francisco.
In November, alumnae gathered at the beautiful Fairsing Vineyard in Oregon, graciously hosted by owners Mary Ann Spielman McNally A’72 and her husband Mike McNally. Surrounded by rolling hills and the rich colors of fall, guests enjoyed reconnecting with one another, welcoming new alumnae to the group, and hearing updates about Duchesne. The setting offered a memorable backdrop for Sacred Heart connection and conversation, and the wine was incredible!
In January, alumnae met in Dallas at the lovely home of Mimi Boyle Wilson A’82 just days after a major ice storm swept through the area. Despite the challenging weather, alumnae traveled from across town, grateful for the opportunity to be together. The evening was filled with meaningful conversation, shared memories, and gratitude for hospitality that embodied the deep generosity of the Duchesne community.
DASH Across the Country traveled to Arizona in February where Maureen McDonnell Silhasek A’62 opened her beautiful home for a warm winter gathering. Alumnae enjoyed reconnecting across class years, meeting new friends, and learning more about the exciting work happening at Duchesne today. It was especially fun that some of our snowbird alumnae who winter in Arizona were able to join this event to meet local alumnae!
In March, alumnae gathered once again in San Francisco for an evening of connection and conversation. Paula March Romanovsky A’71 hosted at The City Club of San Francisco. Guests enjoyed sharing stories and strengthening bonds rooted in Sacred Heart values. Sally Robinson Porter A’57 stole the show by wearing her blue ribbon from her time at Duchesne! Calli Carson A’14 is leading the way to continue keeping our Bay-area alumnae connected and she is already planning the next event.
We are deeply grateful to our generous alumnae hosts and to all who attend these events. DASH Across the Country continues to strengthen alumnae connections far beyond Omaha, celebrating lifelong relationships and meaningful engagement with our school.
More events are on the horizon, and we look forward to welcoming alumnae in additional cities in the months ahead!
Community Connect Day
by Trisha Clark Meehan A’04
Duchesne Academy students stepped beyond the classroom for Community Connect Day in March. This cherished tradition invites students to explore future possibilities through alumnae experiences.
Senior students had the opportunity to connect one-on-one with Duchesne graduates in Omaha. They spent time with an alumna either at her workplace or over coffee, hearing firsthand about her educational journey, career path, and the many twists and turns that life after Duchesne can bring. Alumnae and students said they appreciated the chance to exchange stories, experiences, and updates about life at Duchesne while strengthening a network of women who support one another long after graduation.
Some students met with alumnae working in fields they hope to pursue, while others were introduced to careers they had not previously considered. Seniors said they learned that professional paths rarely follow a single straight line and that curiosity, flexibility, and lifelong learning are essential regardless of the field.
Alumnae hosts spoke warmly about the students. One host shared, “The girls I met were delightful. They were engaged and asked great questions! My coworkers were impressed by them as well. It was fun to learn about their aspirations and their accomplishments. I'm so excited for them and the adventures they have ahead!”
In addition to offering career insight, Community Connect Day fosters something equally important: connection across generations. Community Connect Day is a powerful reminder of the strength of our alumnae community and the generosity of women who give their time and knowledge to guide the next generation. We are deeply grateful to the alumnae who welcomed our seniors into their workplaces and conversations to help our students imagine their future with confidence and curiosity.
Thank you to the following alumnae who hosted seniors for Community Connect Day:
Nora Hickman Blake A'04, Registered Nurse Case Manager, Nebraska Total Care
Courtney Donahoe Blank A'14, Occupational Therapist, Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital
Ellie Soltys Burks A'14, APRN, Essential Family Medicine
Michaela Clark A'12, Senior Care Navigator, Nebraska Total Care
Dr. Kathryn Haas Crane A'99, Anesthesiologist, CHI Bergan
Therese Pogge Creswell A'96, Environmental Quality Control Technician II, City of Omaha
Dr. Mary Finnegan A'90, Physician, Braddock Finnegan Helget Dermatology
Kate Tomka Gerber A'05, Public Relations Manager, Pottawattamie County
Shannon Gilroy A'02, Vice President of Development, Heritage Omaha
Emily Kelley Gorden A'03, Kindergarten Teacher, Saint Margaret Mary School
Allison Pane Guiney A'07, Sr. UX Designer, Branch
Julie McGargill Gust A'02, Senior U.S. Probation and Pretrial Services Officer, US District Court
Jane Cimino Hasebroock A'78, Art Teacher, Duchesne Preschool
Julie Ryan Lehan A'11, Attorney, Abrahams Kaslow & Cassman LLP
Dr. Abigail Hasebroock Mousel A'04, Executive Function Coach and Private Tutor
Olivia Stanek A'17, Attorney, Fraser Stryker PC LLO
Emily Stratman A'19, Water and Wastewater Engineer, EI, JEO Consulting Group
Maria Vaughn Sullivan A'80, Owner, Bloom Herbals Botanical Boutique
Kate Vazquez A'10, Senior Manager, Buildertrend
Kaitlin Belitz VanOrmer A'13, Speech Language Pathologist, OPS Belvedere Elementary
Laura Foley Weingarten A'04, Kindergarten Teacher, St. Wenceslaus
Front row L to R: Karen Krejci Johnson, Sharon Reed, Nancy Major-Jaeck, Pam McNamara, Angie Davidsaver Wells
Second row L to R: Patte Tewhill Switzer, Karen Witt German, Theresa Sullivan Gengler, Sara Strattan, Ann Haller Tierney, Mary Byam Clifford, Kathi Fitzgibbons Saunders
Third row L to R: Kissey Fedman-Zalkin, Patty Herbert Donney, Sara Current Mainelli, Mary Elworth, Kate Egan Gilloon, Mary Jo McFayden RSCJ, Sara Skochdopole Holman, Mary Jo Donahue Touhey, Vangie Levison
L to R: Kelly Leise Boor, Jennie O’Connor Warren, Colleen Quinn Monsef, Kari Kawa Harding, Bridget Welsh Gallagher, Michaela Betterman D’Arrigo, Kathleen Bemis Russell, Katie Clemens Martin, Terry McConnell Rajendran, Cathy Jenkins Walsh, Lisa Kara Pavel, Chris Shimokawa, Laura McKee Hickman, Susan Selling Heavey, Anne Minton, Bea Connor, Anne Egan Marcotte
Front row L to R: Patte Tewhill Switzer, Sara Skochdopole Holman, Nancy Major-Jaeck, Karen Witt German, Maureen Prinz Stavas, Pam McNamara
Second row L to R: Mary Beth Clemens Jackson, Sara Current Mainelli, Kathi Fitzgibbons Saunders, Ann Haller Tierney, Mary Elworth, Sara Strattan, Sharon Reed, Mary Beth Ancona, Sarah Langdon David
Third row L to R: Vangie Levison, Kissey Fedman-Zalkin, Jean Spielman Housh, Ellen Raynor, Angie Davidsaver Wells, Patty Herbert Donney, Mary Jo McFayden RSCJ, Mary Jo Donahue Touhey, Pam Burkley Peterson
Back row L to R: Sue Sodoro Selde, Mary Beth Clemens Jackson, Pam McNamara, Ellen Raynor, Maureen Prinz Stavas, Jean Spielman Housh A’75 A’75
Front row L to R: Casey Smith, Sharon Allgaier, Jenny Witt Medinger, Rachel Morello Cole A’85 A’95
L
L to R: Jaimee Trobough, Peg Dineen Reall, Meg Hanna Amundsen, Jennifer Hansen Leonard, Anne Cavanaugh, Sarah Buda Stratman, Mary Thibodeau Campbell
Back row
to R: Beth Rowland Sisk, Sara Shane, Melanie Pflug Anderson, Olivia Clark Gottsch, Liz Ramacciotti, Mary Engel Yount, Lindsey Kerrey, Joan Kathol Sabott, Erin Nelson Bock, Ally Conroy Rhatigan, Suzi Seran Centrone, Veronica Scalzo, Emily Ross Brown Middle row
Second
Front
A’05 A’15
L to R: Mary Finnegan, Stacia Kulas Hoover, Katherine Gammel, Dorian Hill Stanfield, and Lori Kennedy Schmaderer
L to R: Lori Kennedy Schmaderer, Dorian Hill Stanfield, Stacia Kulas Hoover, Susan Kathol Gnann, Deborah Shimokawa Hollenbeck
Back row L to R: Lacey Rouse, Gabe Hopp, Stephanie Bruckner Karabatsos, Melissa Beehner Pinch, Kate Ortman Doble, Erin Garrigan
Bottom row L to R: Kyle Hassett Allen, Lauren Aliano Mueller, Kristen Stoesz Pratt, Meghan Doyle McCamy, Hilary McGill Carl, Shannon Hernon McNeil, Rachel Larson, Caroline Moore Hinrichs, and Regan Smith
Back row L to R: Julianna Zieno, Alex Emig, Devin Urzendowski Kirby, Kate Vazquez, Lauren Dahlquist Lier, Claire Leuschen
Bottom row L to R: Kathleen Kokensparger, Samantha Bettin LaMaster, Maureen Martin, Jessica Semin
Back row L to R: Bridget Gilloon McKenna, Krissy Hassett Walsh, Elizabeth Niemann Kirchner, Julie McKernan Fiscus, Kiley Clemens Freeman
Third row L to R: Emily Friel Barr, Amber James, Evvy Gnabasik Bethune, Mary Burnett, Maggie Egan Pandis, Brenna O’Malley, Jessica Perrigan
row L to R: Amanda Fink Swim, Maria Ehlers Modlin, Melanie Crnkovich Peterka, Anna Mahoney-Goughnour, Erin Leick, Caitrin Shirazi
Back row L to R: Kathryn Nizzi, Rachel Medara, Taylor Anderson, Maggie Jeffrey, Jen Hester Sobczyk, Madison Webster Misek, Rachel Recker
Front row L to R: Bella Phillips, Natalie Wolfe Thomas, Emma Fisher, Sara Cohen, Natalie Taylor Thorpe, Jessica Preister, Caroline Egan, Emma Russell
2026 Duchesne Volunteer Recognition Awards
Très Bien Award – Amy Beehner Roland A’92
Amy Beehner Roland A’92 has been an active volunteer with the Parent Association for several years. She served as Co-President for the 2024-25 school year, while simultaneously chairing Congé with her husband Larry. Amy co-chaired the Mother Daughter event in 2023. The event centered on setting a beautiful and festive table for family, using pieces of Duchesne china at each seat. This sustainable decision meant Amy and her co-chair Kelly Jeffreys were responsible for hand washing dishes for 175 guests. Amy also had a hand in starting a weekly mother-daughter prayer group on campus called Hearts of Duchesne.
Kay Doyle served as the Chair of the Duchesne Board of Trustees the last two years and she completed her sixth and final year on the Board in May.
Over the years, Kay’s support of Duchesne has been nothing short of amazing. As Chair of the Board of Trustees, Kay facilitated the strategic planning process for the Academy and Preschool, while simultaneously guiding Duchesne’s selected core team through the SHCOG (Sacred Heart Commission on Goals) accreditation process. Kay’s expertise ensured the successful implementation of initiatives from both of these key processes. Further, Kay’s faithful leadership, generosity of spirit, and gift for bringing people together have been integral in the success of Duchesne’s Capital Campaign—the largest in school history.
Merci Beaucoup Award – Kay Doyle
Class Notes
Michele Tighe Kalhorn, Ann Rensch Johnson, Paula March Romanovsky, Trish Delehant Lassart, Ellen Gerrity McGoron, and Kim Igel Cleary A’71 met for a week of food, wine, and friendship in Napa and San Francisco.
Catherine De Mott Steel A’72 & Jenifer Dahir A’71 built houses in Cambodia for Volunteer Builders Cambodia.
Susan Sleezer Allain A’77 retired in 2022 after 38 years in education, ending her career as a San Antonio middle school principal. She and her husband retired to their ranch, and Susan looks forward to celebrating her 50th reunion next year!
Anne Hotz Moran A’83 received the University Service Award from Seattle University.
The James Beard Foundation awarded Sally Kawa A’86 & Kari Kawa Harding A’85’s restaurant, Johnny’s Steakhouse, with a Restaurant and Chef America’s Classics Award. (Pictured with Duchesne teachers Fredika Ver Hulst, Kim Kreis, and Molly Shirazi A’11)
Anne Bachelder A’99 defended her dissertation, “Community building in group antenatal care in Blantyre, Malawi” in December and graduated with a PhD from the Johns Hopkins School of Nursing in May. She also welcomed her second child in February.
Cara Gomez Zimmer A’09 was promoted to Partner of Bland & Associates accounting firm.
Steffanie Luteran Buckley A’09 won the Game Changer Award for her work in building Children’s Hospital’s Emergency Management program and recently became a board member for Children’s healthcare coalition OMHCC.
Shelby Seier A’10 was commissioned to create Prairie Madness, a textile quilt art piece featured at the new Omaha Central Public Library. Alumna and Board of Trustee member Shannon Gilroy A’02 played an important role in supporting the library project as Vice President of Development for Heritage Omaha.
Kathleen Vazquez A’10 has been promoted to Director of Brand Engagement at Buildertrend.
Elizabeth Drews Belford A’15 matched into a hospice and palliative medicine fellowship at the Medical University of South Carolina.
Nick Preston A’21 accepted a position as the part-time Library Specialist with the Omaha Public Library.
Paige Miller A’23‘s collaborative research, “Plasma n6 polyunsaturated fatty acid levels and risk for dementia: A prospective observational study from the UK Biobank”, is being published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.
Maggie Smith A’18‘s two plays, “The Final Meeting of the Unnamed Children’s Protection League of Adolescent Vigilantes” and “Exquisite Corpse”, were published by Gitelman & Good Publishers. Her monologue, “The Courtship of Winifred Edwards” was also featured in the Best Women’s Stage Monologues 2026 by Smith and Kraus.
Emma Schartz A’20 celebrated her first front page article as a journalist for the New York Times.
Kobie Patten A’22 was named to the College Sports Communicators Academic AllDistrict team for Fall 2025.
Kate Stratman A’22 earned the NSIC All-Academic Honors for the Fall 2025 soccer season and received Team of Excellence status.
Calla Behney A’24 was recognized for outstanding student achievement at the 2026 University of Nebraska Omaha Aviation Institute Honors Convocation. Calla received the Arlene V. Steier Memorial Aviation Scholarship.
Maddie Enenbach A’24 was named to the 2025 Fall Tiger Pride Honor Roll at DePauw University.
Rosalyn Morales A’24 was inducted into Phi Alpha Omega on April 16, 2026. She received the Phi Alpha Omega’s Presidents Award of Sisterhood.
June Mullen A’24 was named to the 2025 Women’s Soccer Academic All-MAC Team for Western Michigan University.
Ellie Shanahan A’24 celebrated a Top 5 All-Time Performance in the 60m at St. Louis University with a time of 7.89.
Meg Cordes A’25 published her first fiction novel, “A World Decaying”.
Jackie Johnson A’25 set a new school record for Pepperdine University in the 3M Dive with a score of 289.90.
Elizabeth Layson A’25 was named the firstever All-Freshman for Queens University’s D1 Volleyball program.
Alyssa Moheiser A’25 earned the 2025 USA Lacrosse Emerging Leader Award from USA Lacrosse.
Sarah Schmaderer A’25 represented St. Louis University and the USTA Missouri Valley at USTA Tennis On Campus Nationals in Fort Worth, Texas.
Little Hearts
Bridget Gilloon McKenna A’05 welcomed daughter, Lucille Ann McKenna on July 11, 2025. She joins big brother, Bobby.
Duchesne Music Director Katrina Pierce Margraf and her husband Rory welcomed a daughter Winnie LeAnn Margraf on March 31, 2026.
Duchesne Pre-K Teacher
Lauren Kelley and her husband Nick welcomed a baby boy Arthur Douglas Kelley on February 22, 2026.
A’29 students tour The Stuart Center on Community Connect Day
In Memoriam
October 25, 2025 – May 1, 2026
Alumnae Deaths
Mildred Kenkel Anderson C’49, sister of Alice Kenkel
Buman C’53
Jean Creighton Bell A'59, sister of Mimi Creighton Paris A’57
Anne Carolus Benitz C'49, sister of Charlotte Carolus Hartigan C’55
Mary Parks Blais C'63
Sharon Everett C’66
Donna Rogers Finocchiaro C'55, mother of Kay Finocchiaro
Lawton A’78; grandmother of Lucy Finocchiaro A’10; sister of Jan Rogers Nemec C’63; aunt of Theresa Finocchiaro
Liguzinski A’79, Mona Finocchiaro Snider A’81, Mia
Finocchiaro Migdall A’87, Gina Finocchiaro Warner A’87, and Dianna Finocchiaro Gallagher A’91
Alyxandria Harter Geras A'07
Sandra Storz Hager A'64, sister of Pamela Storz Berry A’65
Betty Haller Harris A'82, sister of Susan Haller A’70, Patty Haller Wells A’71, Peggy Haller Wagoner A’72, and Mary Jo
Haller Langdon A’73; sister-in-law of Julie Lorenz Haller A’76; aunt of Emily Langdon Jung A’96, Jessica Langdon Jaksha A’96, Mel Langdon Tepley A’02, Alison Langdon Dobleman A’03, Hannah Langdon Hayden A’05, Charlie Langdon A’07; great-aunt of Ellie Jung A’27
Lois Holbrook Ord A’48/C’52, sister of Marguerite Holbrook
Smith A’59; aunt of Lisa Smith Cimino A’83, Julie Smith
McGuire A’91; great-aunt of Lindsey Cimino A’13, and Jamie Cimino A’15
Clara Kula C'54
Imelda Ryan McMillin C'56, sister of Mary Ryan Rehan A’56; sister-in-law of Marilyn Curran Ryan A’49/C’53
Mary Alyce Gilmore Pardo A'55
Josephine Clancy Seyer C'47
Barbara Heitman Snyder C'56
Diana Glenn Svehla A'65/C'69, sister of Joyce Glenn A’69; aunt of Ellie Glenn A’23
Diane Witt Taylor A'72, sister of Karen Witt German A’75 and Marilyn Witt Tampke A’79; aunt of Jenny Witt Medinger A’95, Elizabeth German Langan A’01, Catherine Witt Boucher A’03, and Carolyn German Silliman A’10
Ilona Heavey von Ronay A’61
Mary Crofoot von Schrader A'47
Jean Ramson Zimmer C'66
Alyce Zulkoski C'59
Friends and Family
James Ambrose, father-in-law of Jean Connolly Ambrose A’87
Mike Arnold, cousin of Michaela Duffy Lombardo A’71, Maura Duffy Domeier A’74, Corinne Duffy Dineen A’78, and Erin Duffy Bartolomei A’82
Edward Babcock, uncle of Lauren Cox A’26
Ed Bauer, grandfather of Lindsay Bauer A’24 and Elaina Bauer A’29
Gregory Bogard, son of Marian Mace Bogard C’57, brother of Beth Bogard Pusic A’80, uncle of Blaire Bogard McFarlin A’10, Faith Pusic A’11, and Janine Bogard A’14
Catherine Burkhard, mother of Diane Burkhard Stanek A’78, Maureen Burkhard Breneman A’78, and Kathleen Burkhard Flynn A’83
Carol Connor, mother of Peg Connor-Porter A’81, Sharon Connor A’84, Kathy Connor A’85, and Trish Connor A’87
Molly Daly, mother of Cecilia Daly Bresnahan A’08
Nathan "Sandy" Dodge IV, father of Laura Dodge Luther A’79
Thomas Findley, grandfather of Mackenzie Findley Barnard A’10
Brian Glenn, brother of Joyce Glenn A’69; uncle of Ellie Glenn A’23
James Glenn, brother of Joyce Glenn A’69; uncle of Ellie Glenn A’23
Terry Haney, husband of Judy Zents Haney A’61; father of Kim Haney A’80; grandfather of Emily Crnkovich A’13; brother-in-law of Jane Zents Kelley A’65/C’69
Mary Anne Hession, mother of Chris Hession (Duchesne staff)
Tony LaMalfa, father of Lisa LaMalfa Bertagni A’85
Anthony MacBride, father-in-law of Molly Shirazi A’11
Madeline Madden, mother of Eveline Gnabasik Bethune A’05
John “Jack” Minton, father of Peggy Minton Zach A’80, Anne Minton A’85, and Theresa Minton Nasi A’89; fatherin-law of Julie Czerwinski Minton A’83
Patrick Parizek, brother of Georgeann Parizek RSCJ and father-in-law of Kathleen Connor A’07
Rita Mae Runnels, daughter of Anna Becker Runnels A’16, granddaughter of Amy and Thomas Becker (Duchesne staff), niece of Mary Beth Becker A’14, Via Becker A’24, and Jeannette Becker A’27
Nicholas Schinker, father of Ronnie Schinker A’12
Jeanne Spence, mother of Meghan Spence Hope A’01
Terrence "Terry" Strawhecker, father of Natalie Strawhecker Matuella A’14
Barbara Thoma, grandmother of Emily Fitzgerald A’12
Michael Tribulato, brother of Mary Lucien Tribulato Lynch A’72, Anne Tribulato Cleary A’74, Barbara Tribulato Brannen A’76, Toni Tribulato A’80, Suzanne Tribulato Vogel A’81, Paula Tribulato A’85, and Carla Tribulato Johnson A’87; great-uncle of Maya Brannen A’24
Paul Wachter, son of Colleen Curran Wachter A’48/C’52; brother of Joan Wachter Knowles A’77, Sara Wachter A’79, Anne Wachter RSCJ A’80, Laura Wachter Wellington A’87; nephew of Marilyn Curran Ryan A’49/C’53 and Suzanne Curran Carney A’62; uncle of Annie Knowles German A’03, Megan Knowles McKinzie A’06, and Kate Knowles A’09; cousin of Erin Bradley A’88
Richard Whitaker, grandfather of Liz Whitaker Brower A’07 and Katie Whitaker A’12
Michael Yanney, husband of Gail Walling Yanney A’53
Donald Zimmerman, father of Rob Zimmerman (Duchesne Board of Trustee member) and father-in-law of Katie Pogge Zimmerman A’94
We apologize if there are any omissions or misrepresentations in this memorial list. Please note we include relationships to living alumnae. Thank you for continuing to update and inform Duchesne.
—The Alumnae Office
Members of A’78 attended the funeral of Donna Rogers Finocchiaro C’55, mother of classmate Kay Finocchiaro Lawton.
Upcoming Alumnae Events
All-School Reunion
Thursday, September 10 – Saturday, September 12, 2026
