The Dolphin 2024

THE DOLPHIN T H E

M A G A Z I N E

F O R

S A I N T

A N N

C A T H O L I C

S C H O O L

ANNUAL REPORT 2023 - 2024 YEAR OF GIVING

I S S U E

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D E C E M B E R

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WELCOME

IN THIS ISSUE 8 4 A MESSAGE FROM FATHER BILL 5 MEET THE NEW ADMINISTRATION 6 A LETTER FROM THE FOUNDATION 7 BEHIND THE DESK

SAINT ANN BY THE NUMBERS

9 FALL HIGHLIGHTS 10 AROUND CAMPUS 12 FALL FESTIVAL 13 PET BLESSING

TO SAINT ANN CATHOLIC SCHOOL

14 ATHLETICS 16 BEYOND THE CLASSROOM 18 AN EVENING OF GRATITUDE 19 HEART FOR EDUCATION GALA 2024 20 SAINT ANN SCHOOL STRATEGIC PLAN

22 WHERE ARE THEY NOW? 24 GRATEFUL ACKNOWLEDGEMENT 26 FAITH. FAMILY. FUTURE 27 PLANNED GIVING 28 UPCOMING EVENTS

A MESSAGE FROM FATHER BILL Dear Friends of St. Ann School, Tempus Fugit!

Where did the summer go? It seems like it was only yesterday when we celebrated graduation; and yet another school year is already underway. Time does fly when you are having fun!

In this new school year, we have a great many new beginnings and firsts. We have a new principal, Micah O’Connor, and assistant principal, Nick Lahr. Both come with a wealth of experience that they are willing and wanting to share. Both are off to a great start and bring with them a great deal of enthusiasm and energy which is definitely infectious here on campus. You can’t help but feel the excitement.

As far as firsts go, I am extremely happy to tell you that the school’s enrollment has hit an all-time high. We have 501 students. This is the highest number ever enrolled in the school’s history. This certainly speaks volumes about the quality of education at St. Ann School as well as the dedication of our faculty and staff.

Another thing I would like to let you know about the school and the parish is we have 4 faculty members as well as many students who have entered the OCIA, the Order of Christian Initiation. These adults and children have entered a process where they will either be baptized or brought into full communion with the Catholic Church. As pastor I am extremely happy to see that the Holy Spirit is alive at St. Ann’s inspiring both adults and young people to commit themselves to the Lord.

Never before have I seen our school in such wonderful shape---Spirit, Mind and Body. As we move forward, let us continue to support one another, nurture our shared values and celebrate the blessings of our community.

May God bless our school as we embark on this exciting journey together.

Sincerely,

William Davis

(Rev.) Bill Davis, OSFS Pastor

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MEET THE NEW ADMINSTRATION

THE DOLPHIN

Saint Ann School is excited to announce its new administration: Micah O'Connor as Principal and Nick Lahr as Assistant Principal.

Micah O’Connor, originally from southern Ohio, comes to Saint Ann with 16 years of experience in Catholic education, including six years as a principal in the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston in West Virginia, where she gained invaluable insights into the importance of a solid educational foundation grounded in our Catholic values. Micah holds a BA and an MA in Education from Marshall University, along with certification in Leadership and Principalship. She is dedicated to creating a supportive environment where students can thrive academically, spiritually, and personally. Micah looks forward to building strong relationships within the Saint Ann community and contributing to the school’s rich tradition of excellence.

Nick Lahr, originally from Minnesota, comes to Saint Ann after serving as an assistant principal in Pensacola, FL. He holds a BA from Benedictine College and a Master’s in Catholic School Leadership from Marymount University. Nick, along with his wife Lauren and their one-year-old daughter Azelia, are eager to embrace the vibrant culture of Naples. He is passionate about guiding students in their educational journeys and is excited to work closely with families at Saint Ann. Together, Micah and Nick are committed to nurturing a strong foundation of faith, academic excellence, and community spirit at Saint Ann School.

They invite all families to join them in creating a bright future for the students.

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THE DOLPHIN

A BRIGHT FUTURE

As Chairperson of the Saint Ann School Foundation, I am honored to share our progress and vision for the future. Since becoming involved with the Foundation in 2019, I have witnessed firsthand the incredible spirit of kindness and collaboration that defines our community.

In 2020, I had the privilege of spearheading our Endowment Campaign and enhancing our annual fund efforts. These initiatives have enabled us to focus on our Teacher Incentive Program, designed to attract and retain the best and brightest educators for our school. By investing in our faculty, we are committed to ensuring that our students receive the highest quality instruction.

One of my favorite quotes from Pope Benedict resonates deeply with our mission: “Great schools are built on great ideas and the generosity of great people.” I am grateful for the generous support of our families and community members, who embody this spirit and help us realize our goals.

Together, we are building a brighter future for Saint Ann School, rooted in faith, excellence, and a commitment to nurturing the whole child. Thank you for your continued support as we strive to make our school a beacon of hope and learning.

With gratitude,

Tina Ferrao Tina Ferrao

MEET THE FOUNDATION OFFICE TEAM At the heart of the Saint Ann School Foundation is a dedicated team committed to supporting our mission and fostering a vibrant community. Pamela Macia, our executive director since 2008, is a proud alum parent of three Saint Ann graduates. She brings invaluable fundraising experience and a deep understanding of our school’s values.

We are also excited to welcome Erin Smith as the Director of Constituent Relations and Marketing. Erin initially joined Saint Ann as a 4th-grade teacher, and her passion for education has guided her journey into administration. For the past three years, she has served as the Assistant Principal of Curriculum and Advancement, where her commitment to student success has been evident. Together, Pamela and Erin are eager to enhance our Foundation’s efforts, collaborating to build a bright future for our school community, grounded in faith and dedication.

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Behind the Desk

A Closer Look at Our Exceptional Teachers Saint Ann School is blessed to have an exceptional team of dedicated teachers who bring both experience and fresh perspectives to our classrooms. Some have been with us for over 24 years, while others are just beginning their journey. No matter the length of their tenure, each teacher is committed to nurturing our students' minds and hearts, teaching the Faith, and loving the children they serve.

In the educational landscape of Southwest Florida, Saint Ann Catholic School stands out as a beacon of faith, community, and academic excellence. At the heart of this institution are the teachers—dedicated professionals who not only educate but also inspire, mentor, and guide students through their most formative years. So, what makes Saint Ann School teachers different from others in the region? It’s their special blend of spiritual commitment, personal attention, and a strong sense of community that makes them truly stand out.

A COMBINED TOTAL OF O VER 80 YEAR ST. ANN BET S AT WEEN THESE 5 TEACHERS!

A CALLING BEYOND A CAREER Teaching at Saint Ann Catholic School isn’t just a job; it’s a vocation. Our educators see their role as a calling, driven by a commitment and understanding to the spiritual and moral development of each student. They integrate faith into every aspect of their teaching, ensuring that students grow not just academically but also in their understanding of Catholic values. This dedication to nurturing the whole child—spirit, mind, and body—is what sets our teachers apart from those in other schools.

PERSONALIZED ATTENTION AND SMALL CLASS SIZES In an era where large class sizes can sometimes lead to students feeling overlooked, Saint Ann Catholic School prides itself on maintaining small, intimate classrooms where every child is known and valued. Our teachers take the time to understand each student’s individual strengths, challenges, and unique talents. This personalized approach allows them to tailor their teaching methods to best support each child’s

learning journey. It’s this commitment to individualized attention that helps our students thrive, both academically and personally.

TEACHING WITH FAITH AND LOVE

It is easy to say the most significant difference is the way our teachers incorporate their lessons with faith and love.

At Saint Ann, teaching the Faith is not a subject but a living part of everyday life. Our teachers model Catholic values in their interactions with students, showing them what it means to live a life of faith, compassion, and service. They see each child as a precious gift from God, deserving of love, respect, and the opportunity to reach their full potential.

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SAINT ANN SCHOOL

BY THE NUMBERS 65

Percent

of Saint Ann’s faculty have advanced degrees

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

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68

of preparing Pre-K 3 through Grade 8 Students for the gifts of YEARS tomorrow

GOSPEL VALUES

Students is the average class size

Resource, Honors and Gifted Programs offered to students who qualify!

1:1 iPad Program Grades 1-8

Grades Pre-k - 8

Weekly

Attend weekly art, music, library, and robotics classes. In addition they have PE and Spanish twice a week. Middle School students also have band.

Additional opportunities such as choir, drama, chess, and sports are available.

WEEKLY MASS Students attend weekly Mass and participate in the worship of the faith community

Community Service Students learn to acknowledge and accept responsibility for their actions and to embrace all people as brothers and sisters of God within our school community and the greater surrounding community

Living Stations of the Cross A reenactment of Jesus’ journey to Calvary, depicting the 14 stations from his condemnation to burial, helping participants reflect on Christ’s sacrifice during Lent.

FULLY

ACCREDITED

ENRICHING ENVIRONMENT

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different competitive sports offered from Grade 3 - 8: Cross Country, Volleyball, Golf, Soccer, Basketball, Track & Field, Tennis and Flag Football

Spiritual Retreats Students grades 6-8 have the opportunity to attend spiritual retreats that enable them to connect with their Catholic Faith and become closer to God

100%

of Pk3-8 students participate in off campus field trips and learning opportunities to ensure intellectual and spiritual growth

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FALL HIGHLIGHTS

As we move into December, everyone at Saint Ann School proudly reflects on the impactful initiatives our students have undertaken this fall. In late October, we were honored to have Bishop Frank Dewane celebrate Mass with our school community, fostering a spirit of unity and Faith.

Students at Saint Ann are constantly participating in service projects. Through our Minnie-Vinnie program, students collected essential baby items to support Collier Pregnancy Centers, demonstrating their commitment to serving our community. Additionally, students in grades 5-8 came together to pack an incredible 62,248 meals in under two hours! These meals were distributed to families in need right here in the Naples area. We feel truly blessed to have had the opportunity to make a positive impact in the lives of others.

With half a year already finished, we have so much to look forward to! Our students will participate once again in the Meals of Hope initiative for their Holidays with No Hunger event in December. We are excited to welcome once again Gulfshore Playhouse to our campus, where their innovative Think Theatre program is inspiring creativity in each classroom.

This fall has been a season of giving, learning, and growing, and we are grateful for the chance to contribute to our local community while enriching our students' educational experiences.

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Around Our Campus: Discovering the Heart of Our School At Saint Ann School, students bring the school’s mission to life every day, growing in spirit, mind, and body. Academic excellence is at the heart of our educational program, but we go beyond the main subjects to offer a rich, well-rounded experience that helps each student grow in all aspects of life. In addition to studying math, science, language arts, and social studies, Saint Ann students engage in extra subjects such as band, art, music, Spanish, and physical education.

Learning at Saint Ann is both fun and lively, offering students the chance to discover and develop their passions. Whether it’s finding a love for the arts in the music room, expressing creativity in art class, or building teamwork in P.E., students are encouraged to explore a wide range of interests and talents. This energetic spirit carries into every corner of the campus, and the 2023-2024 school year was no exception! One of the most exciting recent events was the first annual Color Run, held at the end of last year. Students, staff, and even some parents joined in the fun, racing across campus while being showered in all the colors of the rainbow. The event was a huge success, and the community is already buzzing with anticipation for the next Color Run in March, which promises to be even bigger and brighter!

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4TH GRADE MATH Public School

Private School

Catholic School

34%

32.7%

33.3% Another exciting development at Saint Ann is the introduction of a new video streaming system for morning announcements, giving 8th-grade students a unique leadership opportunity. These students now organize, produce, and run the daily morning announcements.

Taking on the responsibility with much joy and laughter, they create scripts, discuss the weather, share updates on upcoming sports events, and guide the entire school in morning prayers and reflections. They even highlight birthdays, adding a personal touch to each day.

This new system has brought a fresh energy to the start of each school day, with teachers streaming the announcements directly into their classrooms.

With this new addition, 8th graders are able to sharpen their public speaking, teamwork, and technical skills, all while gaining a sense of community across the school.

With creative events like the Color Run and the leadership shown in the morning announcements, Saint Ann School continues to be a place where students grow, learn, and thrive together in exciting ways!

Recent data from the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) reveals a consistent trend: Catholic school students are outperforming their public school counterparts in 4th-grade math.

According to the 2019 pre-pandemic NAEP results, the national average math score for public school 4th graders was 240, while private school students scored an average of 245. Catholic schools, in particular, shone even brighter, with students consistently exceeding both private and public averages.

This performance gap can be attributed to several factors. Catholic schools often benefit from smaller class sizes, which allow for more individualized attention. Additionally, they have greater flexibility in curriculum design, allowing for more tailored educational experiences.

We’re so proud of our students at Saint Ann! Whether they’re achieving a big milestone or making small strides, we love celebrating every 11 accomplishment.

Saint Ann School FALL FESTIVAL After a three-year hiatus, Saint Ann School’s beloved Fall Festival made a spectacular comeback, and it was nothing short of amazing! Organized by the Home and School Association (HSA), this year’s festival was packed with activities, laughter, and community spirit.

Students also had the exciting chance to dunk their teachers in a dunk tank, creating moments of fun they will never forget.

The joy and energy throughout the festival was infectious, as families reconnected and celebrated the return of this cherished tradition.

HSA event co-chairs Lauren Barone, Mary-Meghan Fisher and Crystal Ofria went above and beyond, dedicating countless hours to ensuring every detail was perfect—and their hard work did not go unnoticed! The event offered something for everyone: inflatable bounce houses, delicious food trucks, a thrilling mechanical bull, pumpkin painting, apple bobbing, face painting, and the ever-popular cake walk.

With this year's Fall Festival setting the bar high, everyone is already buzzing with excitement about what next year will bring. We can’t wait to see how the HSA tops this unforgettable event!

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St. Francis of Assisi Feast Day Saint Ann students joyfully celebrated the Feast Day of St. Francis of Assisi by participating in the annual pet blessing.

This beloved tradition brought students, families, and their beloved pets together for a special ceremony honoring the patron saint of animals.

Fall sports set the tone with high energy:

ATHLETICS

Varsity Boys’ Flag Football (Grades 6-8) Girls’ and Boys’ Cross Country (Varsity) Girls’ Volleyball (JV and Varsity) Co-ed Golf (Grades 3-5)

Come Spring, new opportunities bloom: Co-ed Intramural Basketball (Grades 1-4) Co-ed Tennis (Varsity) Girls’ and Boys’ Track and Field (Varsity) Boys’ Soccer (JV and Varsity) Girls’ Soccer (JV and Varsity) Co-ed Golf (Grades 6-8)

When the weather cools down, Winter sports heat up: Co-ed Intramural Soccer (Kindergarten through Grade 4) Boys’ Basketball (JV and Varsity) Girls’ Basketball (JV and Varsity) Saint Ann School’s athletic program is stronger than ever, offering a lineup of sports across all seasons. With options that promote teamwork, physical fitness, and fun, students of all ages have plenty of opportunities to shine. No matter what the season, we have a sport that will interest students at Saint Ann!

Under the leadership of Athletic Director Courtney Hill, this year promises to be the best season yet! Hill’s dedication to building a well-rounded, inclusive program ensures that every student has the chance to develop their skills, compete, and most importantly have fun.

With school spirit running high and talented students eager to play, it’s bound to be a memorable year for Saint Ann athletics!

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Seventh-grade students Ava Zeitler, Quinn Rexwinkle, Caitlin Chambers, and Ava London spent their lunchtime getting excited for the varsity volleyball playoffs game!

Grace White-Stashis (6th grade) and Jack Conley (4th grade) proudly competed in the final cross-country meet of the year, showing great determination and school spirit!

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Beyond the Classroom

The Transformative Power of Field Trips Students from Saint Ann Catholic School in Naples, FL, visited Congressman Mario DiazBalart in Washington, D.C. During the visit, the Congressman shared his journey to Congress, his commitment to preserving the Everglades, and insights into the legislative process.

"It is always a privilege to connect with the bright students of Saint Ann Catholic School," said Congressman Diaz-Balart. "Prioritizing civic engagement among our youth is critical, as they are the key to our country’s future!"

Capital Bound

Saint Ann's 8th Graders Explore History in Washington, D.C.!

At Saint Ann School, learning extends far beyond the classroom walls. Each year, students embark on a series of enriching field trips that bring their studies to life, connecting them with history, science, and the natural world in unforgettable ways.

For 8th graders, the highlight of their year is a trip to Washington, D.C., where they explore the nation’s capital and gain a firsthand understanding of our government and its history.

Visiting iconic landmarks such as the U.S. Capitol, the Supreme Court, and the Smithsonian museum provides students with a deeper appreciation of the country’s heritage and the workings of democracy.

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A Journey of Discovery: Saint Ann School’s Educational Trips around Florida Seventh graders dive into marine science with a trip to the Marine Lab in Key Largo. Here, they engage in hands-on activities that explore the diverse ecosystems of the Florida Keys, including snorkeling, studying marine life, and learning about conservation efforts to protect these vital habitats.

The study of the environment and offerings in Florida is a major focus for Saint Ann students. An Everglades airboat tour gives 5th graders a closeup view of this wetland, home to diverse wildlife and plants. 4th graders participate in the FGCU Panther Posse program, where they learn about the endangered Florida Panther and the efforts being made to protect this magnificent species.

Agriculture and local history come to life with trips to Farmer Mike's and the IMAG History & Science Center. A day at the beach isn’t just about fun in the sun for our students. They roll up their sleeves for beach clean-up activities to give back to our community!

Finally, a cherished memory for 8th graders is their cherished retreat to a campsite with Outward Bound. This experience allows them to bond and grow through exciting team-building activities like zip lining, navigating a ropes course, and taking the thrilling Leap of Faith! It’s a wonderful opportunity for students to challenge themselves, build friendships, and create lasting memories together.

These field trips are more than just educational outings; they are a part of Saint Ann School's commitment to providing a well-rounded education. By immersing students in real-world experiences, the school develops a deep connection to their community, their environment, and their country, preparing them to be informed, engaged citizens.

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HONORING the

GENEROSITY

THAT POWERS OUR MISSION On November 14, we hosted the first ever Evening of Gratitude celebration for our donors who generously share their time, talent, and treasure with Saint Ann School. Set in our beautiful school courtyard, the event featured delicious food and an inspirational message from Rev. John Belmonte, SJ, our Superintendent of Schools.

The Evening of Gratitude was a beautiful reminder of the power of community and the difference we can make when we work together for the same mission. We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who made this special night possible!

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Swingin’ Into the 60’s

Heart for Education Gala A Resounding Success!

Our Swingin’ Into the Sixties Gala, held in February 2024, was a tremendous success, raising an incredible $700,000! The lively live auction and Call to the Heart were highlights, marking our most successful fundraising efforts to date. Set at the stunning Jet Center, the venue provided a perfect backdrop for a memorable evening.

We are already busy planning Gala 2025, themed “Heart for Education,” which will take place on March 29, 2025, at Sandalwood Stables. We look forward to another fantastic event supporting our mission!

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Charting the Future Strategic Plan Unveiled

Achieving Excellence through Spirit, Mind, and Body Beginning with the 2023-2024 school year, Saint Ann School embarked on an important journey, engaging a diverse group of community members in shaping our future. This collaborative effort included Board Members, representatives from the Diocese, Donors, Alumni, Clergy, Parents, Parents of Alumni, Faculty, Staff, Friends, and Students. Together, we began crafting a strategic plan to guide our school for the next five years.

Following additional listening sessions, the finalized visions and objectives were ratified by the Board on September 11, 2024. We now look forward to implementing this strategic plan, inspired by the Holy Spirit.

The Strategic Planning Steering Committee, led by Chair Pamela Macia and Principal Micah O’Connor, will oversee the rollout and consistent use of Strategic Planning Dashboards across various domains, including Academics & Technology, Advancement, Catholic Identity, Enrollment, Facilities & Technology, Finance, Governance, and Student Life. Each domain will focus on effectively tracking and implementing the plan.

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DOMAIN

MISSION STATEMENTS

Academics

Saint Ann Catholic School students excel in a dynamic learning environment that strives to integrate faith, scholarship, and technology. With intellectual curiosity, compassion, integrity, and social responsibility, Saint Ann Graduates make meaningful contributions to their communities and the world.

Advancement

Saint Ann School is solely dedicated to fostering a culture of philanthropy to promote the growth and success of the school community by providing scholarships, implementing a robust teacher incentive program, funding a capital campaign, and enrichment programs that align with the strategic plan and the school mission.

Catholic Identity

Saint Ann Catholic School students are empowered to live out their faith to become disciples of Christ in a faith filled environment, supported by faculty and staff in partnership with parents. Students are strengthened by love for Jesus Christ and the deepening of student’s faith and trust in God. Faculty and students embrace spiritual growth through prayer, service learning, Christ centered integrated curriculum, and parish partnerships.

Enrollment

Saint Ann School beacons families from diverse backgrounds who aspire for academic brilliance and profound character growth. Through our unwavering commitment to Catholic values and our integrated curriculum approach, we illuminate the transformative power in Catholic education nurturing spirit, mind, and body.

Facilities

Saint Ann Catholic School provides safe and secure innovative spaces that integrate cutting-edge technology seamlessly into our Catholic education to support diverse learning needs, promote sustainability, and nurture spiritual growth to enhance the learning experience.

Finance

Saint Ann Catholic School sustainably supports, delivers and provides an excellent education aligned with our Catholic values by focusing on prudent stewardship, transparent practices and long term financial stability.

Governance

Saint Ann Catholic School upholds Catholic values in effective leadership and decisionmaking in collaboration with key stakeholders from the diocese, parish, school leadership, advisory board and the Foundation.

Student Life

Saint Ann Catholic School is an inclusive, supportive community rooted in Catholic values, offering diverse activities that promote leadership, service, and personal growth by nurturing the spiritual, social and physical development of the whole person.

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WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

Alumni Class Notes and Updates

KAITLYN ACEVEDO ‘14 (O’CONNOR) Katelyn and her husband, Jhon, were high school sweethearts at Saint John Neumann.

This summer, they relocated to Detroit, where Jhon is pursuing dental school at the University of Detroit Mercy.

Katelyn, a passionate educator, continues her career as a high school English teacher.

WESLEY KENNEDY ‘13 Wesley joined the Marines in 2018. He was stationed in Okinawa, Japan, for six years and is now stationed in North Fort Myers/Tampa, recruiting new Marines. His rank is Sergeant.

Wesley married his wife, Brianne, and they have been married for three years. She loves working with children.

EMILY FLYNN ‘09

TAYLOR HENNESSEY ‘23

Emily Flynn, a 2009 graduate of Saint Ann School, now teaches 4th grade at Saint Ann after spending six years in Collier County Public Schools. In addition to her role at SAS, she also teaches confirmation classes at St. John the Evangelist.

Taylor, a 2023 Saint Ann graduate and current sophomore at The Kent School in Connecticut, has been actively involved in community service. Over the past two years, she supported Wesley’s Children’s Hospital in Wichita, KS, by organizing craft kits and leading a successful toy and book drive at St. Ann’s Church. This November, she’s partnering with the Wichita Thunder Hockey Team for a Teddy Bear Toss, with plans to distribute the bears to the hospital and local schools.

JP FARLEY ‘11 JP Farley, Saint Ann School Class of 2011, married his wife, Ginger (Moxam) Farley, in March 2024. JP serves as a firefighter and EMT with the Greater Naples Fire Rescue District, dedicating his career to protecting and serving the community. Together, JP and Ginger are excited to build their future in Naples, continuing to stay connected with family, friends, and their local community.

JACOB SANDERSON ‘10

ALBERTO MACIA ‘16 Alberto Macia graduated from Cornell University in May with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. This December, he will earn his Masters in Systems Engineering from Cornell and will embark on his career with Northrop Grumman in Cape Canaveral, Florida.

Jacob Sanderson, a proud graduate of Saint Ann School, class of 2010, is on the cusp of an exciting milestone. He will be graduating from medical school in May and embarking on his residency in July. His journey from Saint Ann School to pursuing a career in medicine reflects his dedication and passion for helping others.

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BRENNAN SCHMITZ ‘13

MORGAN SMITH ‘02

Brennan Schmitz graduated from Florida International University College of Law and has passed the Florida Bar. Brennan is working at The Carlson Law Firm in downtown Miami. His practice is in construction/real estate law.

Morgan Smith graduated from Saint Ann in 2002. She went on to attend Florida State University for her undergraduate studies and then completed law school at New England Law. She is now a partner at a civil litigation firm in Chicago.

DREW HUSSEY ‘13

ANNA O’BRIAN ‘07

Drew graduated from the University of Texas in 2021.

He spent a few years working as a researcher at MIT and has now started medical school at the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB).

Anna O'Brian is an Emmy Award-nominated writer, storyboard artist, and the director of Disney's “Big City Greens The Movie: Spacecation.” She attended St. Ann School from 20022007, then later graduated from St. John Neumann High School in 2011. From a young age, Anna has always wanted to work in animation.

GRACE KANE ‘15 Grace, a 2015 graduate of Saint Ann, works as a move-in coordinator at Seascape at Naples, where she helps seniors find a comfortable community to age in place. She deeply values the wisdom and life stories shared by her residents, as these interactions enrich her work.

Grace finds purpose in creating a welcoming environment and ensuring each senior’s transition is smooth, respectful, and supportive.

After a year enrolled at the University of Florida, she set her sights on art school and was accepted into the California Institute of the Arts. There, she was in enrolled in the well-known character animation program founded by Walt Disney himself. Following a year at CalArts, she got her big break as a storyboard artist on Nickelodeon’s animated comedy series “Harvey Beaks”. For the next ten years, she worked as a writer, storyboard artist, and character designer on many highly-acclaimed shows including “We Bare Bears” at Cartoon Network, along with “Big City Greens” and “Amphibia” at Walt Disney TV Animation.

In 2019, Anna returned to “Big City Greens,” becoming a director on the series’ 2nd and 3rd seasons. In 2020, Anna was nominated for a Daytime Emmy for writing on the series. In 2024, following her success directing “Big City Greens The Movie: Spacecation,” she will return to series’ 5th season, serving as Executive Producer.

SAINT ANN STUDENT SPOTLIHT DARIA ZAITSEVA ‘30

Daria Zaietesva, the bright and bubbly 3rd-grade student at Saint Ann School who always brings smiles to everyone’s faces, recently sat down with Pam Macia and Erin Smith for an interview.

Q: What is your favorite part about Saint Ann? A: My favorite part about St. Ann is the Church and my teachers. I love how everyone at the Church is really kind and I love to altar serve 6:00 Mass on Sunday with Father Bill! The teachers at Saint Ann are so nice, caring, and smart.

Q: What do you want to be when you are older?

A: I want to be a nun with The Carmelites of the Most Pure Heart of Mary when I grow up. Do you know how to spell Carmelite? Here, let me write it for you. C-A-R-M-E-L-I-T-E

Q: Why do you want to be a nun?

A: I want to be a nun because I want to help other people. I will help the poor and visit the sick.

Q: What is one thing you are most looking forward to this year?

A: Wait… is there Confirmation in 3rd Grade?

No, Confirmation is in 10th Grade.

Awww! I was excited for Confirmation!

I am excited to see the 2nd graders complete their First Holy Communion! They are going to be so cute in their white dresses. I remember when I went through my First Holy Communion last year, I was nervous and so excited.

Q: Is there anything you want people to know about you?

A: I want people to know that I want to be like St. Francis of Assisi because I love animals, especially squirrels.

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GRATEFUL ACKNOWLEDGMENT Honoring our 2023-2024 School Year Donors

Saint Ann Society $25,000 + Mr. and Mrs. Randall Byrnes Mr. and Mrs. John Cochran Ms. Mary Drazan The Ferrao Foundation Mr. Tim Habbershon + Allison Murray James C. and Shirley M. Curvey Foundation Mr. Gerry McGraw Ruth and Jim Otterbeck Saint Ann Catholic Church Saint William Catholic Church San Marco Catholic Church Mr. Douglas D. Schumann + Sandi Davies Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Stayer Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Sturm

Partners In Mission Society $15,000 - $24,999 Gabby and Tom Chomiak Jennifer and Lawrence DeCaria Patricia and Richard Del Bello Jenna and Matthew Romeo

Francis de Sales Society $10,000 - $14,999 Mr. and Mrs. John Allen Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Barone, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Blanford C&J Unanue Family Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Terry Cavanaugh Mr. and Ms. Brian Cobb Mr. and Mrs. Dan Conley Cornwall Foundation Bishop Frank Dewane, Diocese of Venice Mr. and Mrs. Fata Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Fisher Highmark Health Mrs. Mary Pat Hussey Ms. Sarah Jackson In memory of Camilla Klopf Mr. and Mrs. Clark Minker Mr. and Mrs. John Remondi Mr. and Mrs. David Shirley Saint Agnes Catholic Church Saint John the Evangelist

Saint Ann Leadership Council

Benefactors Society $5,000 - $9,999

Spirit, Mind, Body Society $1,000 - $2,499

Mrs. Eileen Bolster Mr. and Mrs. Mark Borelli Mr. and Mrs. Greg Debski Mr. and Mrs. Terrance Flynn Mr. and Mrs. Greg Gardella Mrs. Jenny Gezella Mr. and Mrs. Philip Healy Joseph Wendt Custom Clothiers Mr. and Mrs. Lukas Krapf-Dobr Mr. and Mrs. Ned Lautenbach Mr. and Mrs. Frank Marcos Mrs. Susan McCurry Mr. and Mrs. Dan Mezzalingua MHK Architecture and Planning Mr. and Mrs. Robert Mills Mr. Brian Obeidzinski Mr. and Mrs. David Restaino Mrs. Marguerite Scribante Mr. and Mrs. Sam Semaan Dr. and Mrs. Francisco Smith Mr. and Mrs. Gregory Stai Tempo Charitable Trust Mr. and Mrs. Alejandro Urrea Mr. and Mrs. Gordon Vanscoy Ms. Patricia Wagner Mr. and Mrs. Mark Woodward

In memory of Jaime Amoroso Anonymous Gift M r . a n d M r s . B e rO n aFr dF JE. R BaT r oH n eR E E Mr. and Mrs. Justin Boyle Mr. Thomas Campbell Mr. and Mrs. Curt W. Clarida Mr. and Mrs. Dan Conley II D Brown General Contractors LLC Mr. and Mrs. Derron Dart Mr. and Mrs. Frank Dressman Mr. and Mrs. Robert Dunkel Engel & Voelkers Mr. and Mrs. Edward Fiorentino Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Fives Mr. Robert Gephart Mr. and Mrs. John Geraghty Mr. and Mrs. Bryan Gezella Mr. and Mrs. Michael Golino Mr. Christopher Hagerty Mr. John Howley Mr. Paul Kania and Julia Gardner Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Keefe Mr. and Mrs. Jim Kelleher Mr. and Mrs. David Lacharite Mr. James Lang Mr. and Mrs. Gustav Lipp Mr. and Mrs. Alberto Macia Mr. Mark Masek Mr. and Mrs. Eric McKenzie Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Migliara Ms. Hadley Miller Mrs. Justine Mullen Mr. Lee Nugent Partners in Mission | Mr. Lawrence Furey Dr. and Mrs. Adam Perry Mr. and Mrs. Robert Pope Ms. Denise Quinn RDA Consulting Engineers Dr. and Mrs. John Rexwinkle Ms. Rosemarie Ryan Mr. Peter Smith Mr. Rodolfo Soler and Ms. Rebeca Alfaro Tobias Financial Advisors Mr. and Mrs. Brian Wahfield Mr. and Mrs. Frank Zappulla

Saint Joachim Society $2,500 - $4,999 Mr. and Mrs. Donald Campbell Dr. and Dr. Matthew Connor Mr. and Mrs. Greg Ebben Mr. and Mrs. Paul Fuerst Dr. and Mrs. James Guerra Mr. and Mrs. Francis Hager, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Mark Hoppe The House of Drop Mr. and Mrs. John LaCava Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Loughery Mr. Randy Morris Ms. Jodi Mueller Mr. and Mrs. James Orr Mr. and Mrs. Joe Parisi Mr. and Mrs. Helder Rosa | Ferrari of Naples Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Ruesterholz Mr. Alfred Stashis and Ms. Joy White Mr. and Mrs. John Suddeth Mr. and Mrs. Peter Zeitler

Lead Benefactors who join the Saint Ann Leadership Council exemplify their dedication to the Mission of Saint Ann School through their generous contributions. Membership is available to individuals who contribute $2,500 or more during the fiscal school year. Donors who gave over $2,500 were invited to a Donor Celebration Party on November 14th.

GRATEFUL ACKNOWLEDGMENT Honoring our 2023-2024 School Year Donors

1956 Society $500 - $999 Dr. Lisa Aenlle Mr. Mikhail Danilov and Anastasia Andries Mr. and Mrs. Casey Askar Ms. Jo Ellen Atkinson Ms. Nena Beynon Ms. Ellen Brackett Mr. Joshua Brown Mr. and Mrs. OJ Buigas Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Caveney Mr. Edgar Collado Mrs. Nancy Conaton Mr. and Mrs. Nicholas Constantino Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Dolan Mr. and Mrs. James Farley Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Gephart Mr. and Mrs. Brian Gleason Mr. and Mrs. Keith Greenaway Ms. Patricia Hardy Mr. Patrick Hill Mr. Jared Holes and Ms. Paloma Huerta Mr. and Mrs. Leroy Huenefeld III Dr. Francis DiFranco and Dr. Don Konovsky Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Lombardo, Jr. Mr. Richard MacDonald Mr. and Mrs. Frank Marcos Mr. and Mrs. David Martella Mr. and Mrs. Larry Mcpherson Mr. and Mrs. Brian Murray Mr. Deon Van Vuuren and Ms. Holly Perkins Mr. Edward Reilly Mr. Arthur J. Rooney Mr. Charles Rosachi Ms. Sara Wasmer Mr. and Mrs. Cameron Woodward

Dolphin Society $250 - $499 Mrs. Mary Jane Breen Mrs. Mary Dee Bryant Ms. Jamie Carroll Mr. Brian Coe Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Cook Mr. and Mrs. Juan Cordero Mr. and Mrs. Nicholas Dalessandro Ms. Katrina Day Mr. and Mrs. Ronny De Aza Mr. Renato DePaolis Mr. and Mrs. Mariano Estefano Mr. Patrick Flynn Ms. Trish Goslee Ms. Liset Gutierres Mr. and Mrs. David Hogan Mr. Christopher Holt + C. Senna-Cheribbo Mrs. Irma Lesser Mr. and Mrs. Nicholas Logan Ms. Allison Minker

Dolphin Society $250 - $499 Mr. and Mrs. William Morris Mr. David Oliver and Ms. Ana Capobianco Mr. and Mrs. John Palma Mr. and Mrs. David Radosti Mr. and Mrs. David Resch Mr. and Mrs. Vincent Rodriguez Mr. Duane Schmitz and Ms. Lynn Wiggert Mr. and Mrs. Wells Gable Mr. and Ms. Michael Thompson Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Twardowski

Blue and White Society $100 - $249 Ms. Susanne Abbiati Mr. Mark Allen Mr. Anthony Aversa Ms. Judy Bauer Ms. Angela Berger Ms. Denise Bertucci Ms. Theresa Brinker Dr. James Buonavolonta Mr. and Mrs. Michael Buskirk Ms. Heather Caamano Ms. Monica Cameron Mr. Andrea Cirino and Ms. Annalisa Rainone Ms. Renee Cohill Mr. and Mrs. Jack Combes Ms. Connie Crews Ms. Ellen Daly Rev. William Davis, OSFS Ms. Kathy Deeb Mr. and Mrs. Paul Delaney Mr. and Mrs. Paul Dionne Mr. and Ms. Mike Dix Ms. Pat Firdor Mr. and Mrs. Tom Fleming Mr. John Foley Ms. Ann Marie Gaffney Ms. Cathy Garbossa Mrs. Erin Garner Mr. and Mrs. James Gatt Ms. Susan Gohl Mr. and Mrs. Cristian Gomez Mr. and Mrs. Teddy Graham Ms. Kelly Hammons Ms. Courtney Hill Mr. and Mrs. Reginald Holly Ms. Diane Howard Ms. Anne Marie Macia Dr. and Mrs. Robert March Mrs. Linda Pasquarello Mr. and Mrs. Frank Peter Ms. Marilyn Powers Ms. Gloria Russillo Mr. David Sant'Angelo + Ms. Colleen Shandrey Ms. Gail Shebuski Ms. Karen Spletzer Ms. Jennifer Townsend Ms. Beverly White Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Willis

Saint Ann Gift Club

Dr. and Mrs. David Zipfel Mr. and Mrs. Ryan Hennessey Mr. and Mrs. William Insley Mrs. Jo Ann Irene Reverend Robert Kantor Mr. Richard Lussy Ms. Ela Maston Mr. Robert McCusker Mr. and Mrs. Al McGowan Ms. Christina McLaughlin Ms. Ginger Moxam Mrs. Maurenn Murphy Mr. and Mrs. Jean-Paul Musicco Ms. Anne Niederkorn Mr. and Mrs. Denny Noe Dr. and Mrs. Mary Parent Ms. Lauren Peterson Mr. and Mrs. David Pitfield Mr. Richard Prancl Ms. Michelle Ricciardi Ms. Amy Richardson Ms. Kelly Thimmesh Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Tranchina Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Vatsan Ms. Patty Walbert Ms. Kerry Wall

Friend of Saint Ann $1 - $99 Mrs. George Ann Bardenheier Ms. Kerry Boyle Mr. Kenneth Caulfield Mr. Quinn Cockrell Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Crawford Mr. and Mrs. Gary Datro Ms. Melanie Demarais Ms. Natalie Donahue Ms. Marea Dumbauld Ms. Maria Ferrao Mr. and Mrs. James Ferrarone Ms. Pam Fisher Mr. George Fitzpatrick Ms. Sarah Foegen Ms. Janet Foley Ms. Patricia Foley Ms. Elena Frantsen Ms. Ester Frias Mr. and Mrs. James Gallagher Ms. Amy Grau Mrs. Stella Leon Ms. Amanda Macia Ms. Patricia Marsh Mrs. Carolyn McCormick Ms. Karen Olsen Mrs. Sylvia Pacheco Mrs. Karon Paisan Dr. Vincent A. Previti Mrs. Catherine Scarantino Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Shephard Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Winn Mrs. Melissa Zizzo

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FAITH FAMILY FUTURE SECURING A BRIGHT FUTURE FOR OUR CHILDREN OF GOD

The Saint Ann School Foundation is thrilled to present the Faith, Family, Future Endowment, a transformative initiative aimed at ensuring a prosperous future for our beloved students. We would like to express our utmost gratitude to the dedicated individuals and families who have contributed to the Faith, Family, Future Endowment.

THANK YOU TO OUR ENDOWMENT DONORS $1,000,000 and Up

$50,000 and Up

$10,000 and Up

Leslie “Mitzi” Magin

Rebecca and John Allen

Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Barone

In Memory of Dorothy “Dot” and Charles “Chick” Schumann

Nancy and William Krause

Patty and Terry Cavanaugh

Cindy and Ned Lautenbach

Cornwall Foundation

The Ferrao Foundation

Nora and Scott Murray

Conley Family

$500,000 and Up

The Carmenn and Joe Unanue Family Foundation

Byrnes Family Foundation James C. Berry

$250,000 and Up John J. Meli Estate Christine and Terry Flynn Cochran Family Scholarship Fund John M. and Susan M. Morrison Fund Ruth and Jim Otterbeck

$100,000 and Up

James C. and Shirley M. Curvey Foundation Christina and Cap Mona Mary Pat Hussey Maureen and Clark Minker Dorothy and John Remondi Nancy and Michael T. Timmis Dorothy and Dan Gill Allison Murray and Tim Habbershon

$25,000 and Up William W. Chorske Dana and Greg Debski Jane and Rob Hisel Joseph A. Paradis III Karen and Joseph Paterno Patti and Ralph Miesel

Patrick J. Longe

$5,000 and Up Heather and Mark Borelli Lee-Ann and Philip Healy Kati and Ron Larson Anne Marie, Amanda, and Alberto Macia William Allyn

Claudia and Sam Semaan In Memory of Judy Sullivan

$15,000 and Up The Connors Family Shera and Casey Askar The Ruesterholz Family Otterbeck Children - Cameron, Bryson, and Grace

ENDOWMENT FUND - A FAMILY LEGACY FOR GENERATIONS TO COME

A minimum gift commitment of $5,000 (payable over 5 years) is required to establish an endowment gift. A signed gift agreement ensures that your gift will be used as intended. If desired, the agreement can include information from you on the inspiration for the creation of this fund and its importance. For example, you may name an endowment after a family member and create a family legacy.

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Planned Giving

Planned Giving at Saint Ann School: Our Legacy is Our Faith The Legacy Society of the Saint Ann School Foundation offers a meaningful way to support our school’s future through planned giving. This initiative is designed to provide structured gifts that help sustain and grow the Saint Ann School Foundation Endowment, while also offering significant financial and tax benefits to our benefactors. Membership in the Legacy Society is reserved for individuals who include Saint Ann School Foundation in their estate plans. By joining, you play a crucial role in ensuring the continued excellence and growth of our beloved school community. Together, we can create a lasting legacy rooted in faith.

SAINT ANN LEGACY SOCIETY James C. Berry ✞ Christine and Terry Flynn Mitzi Magin ✞ John J. Meli ✞ Ronald J. Parker Trust ✞ Karen and Joseph Paterno Mr. and Mrs. Michael Timmis, Sr.

Lifetime Giving

CUMULATIVE GIVING SOCIETY $50,000 and Up We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the esteemed members of the Cumulative Giving Society, a distinguished group of donors to the Saint Ann School Foundation, whose lifetime giving exceeds $50,000. Their exceptional generosity has been instrumental in advancing our mission and providing exceptional educational opportunities to our students. We are truly grateful for their unwavering support and dedication to the betterment of Saint Ann School. Each is an invaluable part of our journey and we thank you sincerely.

Mr. and Mrs. John Allen Berry Fund Mr. and Mrs. William Bindley Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Boehl Mr. and Mrs. Randall Byrnes Mr. William Byrnes ✞ Mrs. Anne Camalier (✞ Charles) Charles E. and Mary Elizabeth Scripps Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Brian Cobb Mr. and Mrs. John Cochran Mrs. John Connors ( ✞ Jack) Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Cordasco Cornwall Foundation James C. and Shirley M. Curvey Foundation Mr. and Mrs. James Curvey Mr. and Mrs. Richard Del Bello Mary F. Drazan Mr. and Mrs. Aubrey Ferrao The Ferrao Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Terrance Flynn Mr. and Mrs. Alan Gerry Mrs. Dorothy Gill (✞ Daniel)

Saint Ann Parish Ms. Susan Gohl (✞ Frederick) Saint William Catholic Church Ms. Allison Murray Ms. Sandi Davies and Mr. Douglas Schumann and Mr. Tim Habbershon Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Sturm Homan Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Michael Timmis, Sr. Mrs. Mary Pat Hussey (✞ Frank) Mr. and Mrs. Andy Unanue Mrs. Nancy Krause (✞ William) Ms. Patricia Wagner (✞ George) Mr. and Mrs. Ned Lautenbach Mr. and Mrs. Jack Wasmer ✞ Mr. and Mrs. James Loonam Mr. Patrick J. Longe Mrs. Leslie “Mitzi” Magin ✞ Mr. and Mrs. Frank Marcos Mrs. Susan McCurry (✞ David) Mr. Gerry McGraw Mrs. Jayne McKee (✞ James) Ms. Bettina McKee Mr. John Meli Mr. and Mrs. Clark Minker Mr. Cap Mona John M. and Susan M. Morrison Foundation Mr. and Mrs. George Murray Ruth and James Otterbeck Mr. and Mrs. John Remondi

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Saint Ann School 542 8th Avenue South Naples, Florida 34102 239.262.4110 | www.stann.net

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SAVE THE DATE SATURDAY MARCH 29, 2025 NAPLES, FLORIDA

PRESENTING SPONSORS The Ferrao Foundation Elise and Chris Klein Ruth and Jim Otterbeck In Memory of Dot & Chick Schumann

UY TICKETS SCAN TO B

MEDIA SPONSORS