View from the Cupola v32 i1

WELCOME, CLASS OF 2019 IAAM A Conference Volleyball Champions Celebrating Benefactors:

PAST & PRESENT

FRIENDSHIPS THROUGH THE CENTURIES

1:1 Integration

Campus Ministry Expands

Mount de Sales Academy

FROM THE PRINCIPAL

BOARD OF TRUSTEES Dear Friends of Mount de Sales Academy,

Executive Committee Joseph Geier P’08 ’12 ’17 President

“What kind of world do we want to leave to our children? It is the Spirit who challenges us to respond as part of the great human family.”

Richard G. Arnold P’11 Vice President Christopher P. Brown, Esq. P’04 ’08 Secretary Elizabeth Gibbons Jennings ’80 P’12 ’19 Treasurer Sister Mary Thomas Huffman, O.P. Principal

General Board Thomas Campbell P’14 Larraine Clark P’02 Father Michael DeAscanis

Homily from papal closing Mass of the World Meeting of Families

This past fall I attended the closing Mass of the World Meeting of Families with Pope Francis as the main celebrant. In his homily, he challenged us all to a greater level of attention to our daily actions, for “love is shown by little things.” These little things are learned in the home, making it the “right place for faith to become life, and life to become faith.” Pope Francis’ question above makes us all reflect on our part in supporting families.

Ronald C. Diegelman P’00

Family has always been especially important at Mount de Sales Academy. We hope our

William Glover P’15

students find MDSA to be an extension of their family, a place that reinforces the values

Brian MacLean P’14 Kim Martel P’00 ’02 ’08 ’15 Kate Ohlmacher McAuliffe ’02

they learn at home and provides an environment where they can exercise those little gestures through strong friendships.

Sharon McCormack, M.D. ’77

Mount de Sales has had many accomplishments so far this year. This issue of the View from

Lynda Geier Mules ’77 P’05 ’13

the Cupola focuses on one of our greatest values: friendship. We see friendship in many

Reverend Michael J.P. Roach

capacities, from examining how to increase the use of technology without decreasing the

John Teixeira

quality of relationships, to providing a campus ministry program that works with students

James Zalucki, M.D. P’12 ’15

to strengthen friendships with God and one another. This year we grew our Mount de Sales family as we welcomed our largest freshman class to date. Every Thursday I meet

Alumnae Association Board

with freshman parents to get to know their families and invite them to get involved at

Jessica Wilson ’09 President

Mount de Sales. They come from all over, but they come looking for similar values.

Nancy Dragin Reed ’81 P’17 Vice President

The Mount de Sales Academy campus has seen many improvements to accommodate

Jeanne Shaible Langeluttig ’84 Treasurer

possible, we held a donor celebration event in October that recognized financial

Danielle Wilson ’11 Secretary

Campaign and acknowledged the countless others who supported MDSA throughout

Director of Communications

Mount de Sales would not be the exceptional place it is without the people — the students,

Karen von Lange P’09 ’16

alumnae, parents, grandparents, friends, faculty, staff, and Board of Trustees — that make

Director of Development

up our family. Thank you for your part in supporting the great human family, and especially

Elizabeth Saverino ’87

your role in supporting the Mount de Sales family.

these wonderful students. To celebrate the friends of MDSA who made these improvements contributors to Phase I and II of the Anchored in Excellence our history.

Photography Elizabeth Binette Mahon ’07 Galeone Photographers

Charting our Future Capital

Sincerely in Christ,

Design Freestyle Designs LLC

Printing

Sister Mary Thomas, O.P.

Printing Images

Principal

TEN

I

n the 2016 National Merit®

Scholarship Program, 10 young

women at Mount de Sales Academy have been named Semifinalists and Commended Students. The recipients

National Merit® Scholarship Program Semifinalists & Commendees

their exceptional academic promise.

Although they will not continue in the 2016 competition for National Merit Scholarship

awards,

Commended

Students placed among the top five

percent of more than 1.5 million students

are as follows:

who entered the 2016 competition by SEMIFINALISTS

taking the 2014 Preliminary SAT/National

STEPHANIE LARSEN

Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/

ELIZABETH KOLB RACHEL TETI

Vice Principal of Academic Affairs Theresa

NMSQT®).

Greene shares her excitement, saying, “We are overjoyed and proud to have such a

The Semifinalists are the highest scoring

large number of our students recognized

entrants in each state. The National

COMMENDED STUDENTS

in the National Merit Scholarship Program

Merit Scholarship Corporation provides

CAROLINE ARNOLD

this year! Their ability to perform well is

scholarship

rooted in the education they received. It is

Semifinalists through their high schools.

also a testament to our faculty who ensure

To be considered for a National Merit

that our girls are aptly prepared to think

Scholarship, Semifinalists must advance

ELIZABETH HALLIGAN

critically, not just for PSATs and SATs, but

to Finalist standing in the competition by

KATHLEEN ORTEL

for college and life.”

meeting high academic standards and

VERONICA BALICK GIANNA GROGAN

About 34,000 Commended Students

SARAH VAN DEN BERGHE

throughout the nation are recognized for

4

Volleyball Champs

materials

to

all other requirements explained in the

KATHERINE SNIEZEK

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE V.32 I.1:

application

12

Campus Ministry

15

information provided to each Semifinalist.

Development

21

Alumnae Updates

3

ON CAMPUS

VOLLEYBALL TEAM RALLIES THE WIN! On Saturday, October 31, at Roland Park Country School, No. 9-ranked Mount de Sales volleyball defeated top-seeded and No. 2-ranked Notre Dame Preparatory School to win

SIGNING CEREMONY

Goyena ‘16 hit a kill that narrowly landed in the corner, setting the MDSA fans into frenzied

Congratulations to the seniors who signed National Letters of Intent to play sports for National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I and II colleges and universities.

jubilation. “My first thought was, I can’t believe we just won on a free ball,” said Mary Popp

SHANNON BLEE

the Interscholastic Athletic Association of Maryland A Conference championship. Mount de Sales captured an early 2-0 lead, then held on in an impressive five-set match to win 25-19, 25-22, 11-25, 17-25, 15-11. When the teams were tied in the final set, Celeste

‘17 to the Baltimore Sun, referring to a ball that is passed over the net when an attack is not

Lacrosse | Davidson College

possible. “My second thought was, ‘It’s just so us.’ We’ve scrapped and worked hard and

REBECCA BOYLE

played like a team all year. A lot of people counted us out, but we believed in ourselves,

Lacrosse | Johns Hopkins University

and we did it.”

MACKENZIE GRIFFITH

This win was especially monumental to the team since Coach Monica Owensby P‘13, who has coached at MDSA for 11 years, will retire after this season. When asked about the significance of this championship win, she cited her favorite Ralph Waldo Emerson quote: “What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.”

Lacrosse | Campbell University

HANNAH IGNACIO Lacrosse | Marquette University

ISABEL O’CONNELL Lacrosse | Old Dominion University

SARAH von LANGE Lacrosse | Philadelphia University

To expand on the quote, Coach Monica explains, “I know what it feels like to win several championships, and I want the players to feel it too; yet, that is a small aspect of how I train them. I want them to find what motivates them and bring it out. Knowing that the players give each other 100 percent of themselves in every aspect of the game and life, regardless of outcome, makes it a successful season in its own right. Some people will understand that, some will not, but I know my players always will.”

4

ICA MON Y P‘13 NSB OWE lleyball Coach

y Varsit

Vo

unt at Mo l l a b y Volle rs, hing 1 yea c 1 a r o o c f After demy res s Aca y sha e b l s a n S e de ca Ow s Moni h d plan c a n a s Co t sigh her in re. e futu h t r o f

WHEN DID YOU START COACHING VOLLEYBALL AT

WHAT DID YOU ENJOY ABOUT COACHING? I have

MDSA? I started coaching at MDSA in 2005 as the head JV

enjoyed the overall feeling of family and faith portrayed and

volleyball coach.

demonstrated on our team. We support each other and that is important to me, especially since my extended family lives in

CAN YOU SHARE HIGHLIGHTS FROM YOUR TENURE?

Arizona. I also enjoyed being part of the traditions that are

Some highpoints include being named a top 15 team in the

accompanied with every team I’ve coached. The time I spent

Maryland state polls every year; always placing in the top four

coaching the girls made every day special to me. The girls made

teams in the IAAM A Conference; and watching my players go

me laugh when I had a bad day at work, and their positive energy

on and play in college at all levels. I’ve coached the 2009,

turned many bad days into good days. There are no words that

2010, 2011, 2013, and 2015 teams to championships, and

can express how much every team and player has meant to me,

we won 2009, 2010, and 2015 during my time as varsity head

and seeing them succeed and grow into respectful, wonderful

coach. In 2008, we also won the championships, but I was the

young ladies is a blessing.

assistant coach.

ANYTHING ELSE THAT YOU’D LIKE TO SHARE? MDSA WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR THE FUTURE? I plan to

has been a big part of my life, my love of the game, and my faith

take time for myself, find new hobbies to enjoy, and hope to

for 11 years and will always hold a special place in my heart.

have more time to travel. I also plan to continue coaching at a

What they teach the girls in school is definitely portrayed in their

club level and one of these days move up into the college level.

character while they play, and that makes me proud to be part of

In the year to come we hope to move back to Arizona with our

such a great school and program. I only helped guide the girls

family once our daughter Chelsea ‘13 graduates from college

to the many accomplishments they have made. It was through

and my husband finishes his tour in Italy. Regardless of what I’m

their own will, determination, and desire that they were able to

doing, if I am in the area, I will be in the stands cheering on the

be better than they were the day before.

MDSA Sailor Volleyball Team!

5

ON CAMPUS

The Saint

Maria Faustina

Mercy Scholarship

Dr. Gaver and Lana Gaver ‘13

ount de Sales Academy will begin offering the

M

conditions of orphanages in the

Saint Maria Faustina Divine Mercy Scholarship in

Ukraine, Dr. Gaver adopted

the 2016-2017 school year. Coincidentally, Pope Francis

her five children. Professionally

has declared the Year of Mercy from December 8, 2015,

she witnessed the needs of

through the Feast of Christ the King on November 20,

children closer to home and

2016. In December, prior to Adoration, all Mount de Sales

created

students were taught about Divine Mercy and received

Children’s Lodge, Inc., which provided cultural enrichment

prayer cards that were blessed by Pope Francis.

opportunities for children to have experiences outside of

The

Chesapeake

their neighborhood. Now, through the Saint Maria Faustina Dr. Barbara Gaver P’13, the generous benefactor of this

Divine Mercy Scholarship, Dr. Gaver will provide an MDSA

scholarship, has dedicated her personal and professional

education to students who otherwise would be unable to

life to serving children in need. After learning of the terrible

attend due to finances.

6

ON CAMPUS

ALWAYS FAITHFUL

Dr. Gaver has a devotion to Saint Maria Faustina who was canonized by Saint John Paul II in 2000 and is referred to as “the great apostle of Divine Mercy in our time.” Dr. Gaver began praying to Saint Maria Faustina during the longterm illness and multiple hospitalizations of one of her children.

Later, Dr. Gaver asked Saint

Maria Faustina to be the intercessory saint for her adoption of Lana ‘13 and Johnny, biological siblings. Through this scholarship, Dr. Gaver is increasing awareness of God’s mercy and Saint Faustina, to whom Jesus revealed messages of Divine Mercy.

For more information on the Saint Maria Faustina Divine Mercy Scholarship, including how you can contribute to this fund, please visit the MDSA website or call the Development Office at 410.744.8498.

I

t is an integral part of the Mount de Sales Academy mission to form young women who are faithful to the Catholic tradition.

Mount de Sales has been blessed with a community that not only supports, but also furthers that mission. In 2014 friends of Mount de Sales, who wish to remain anonymous, established the Semper Fi Scholarship. This scholarship is in memory of the many marines who have remained “always faithful” to God, country, and the Marine Corps. As a scholarship fund, it acknowledges and supports families who have been “always faithful” to living the precepts of the Catholic Church.

To date, the Semper Fi Scholarship has been awarded to

27

individual students for the 2015-2016 academic year. Mount de Sales Academy is extremely thankful for this tangible advancement of our mission, for the girls and their families this scholarship has already benefited, and for the many future beneficiaries of the Semper Fi Scholarship.

For more information regarding the Semper Fi Scholarship, please visit our website at www.mountdesales.org/admissions/scholarships.

7

ON CAMPUS

WHAT A

JOY IT WAS

After the close of the 2014-2015 school year, Mount de Sales Academy bid farewell to two of our beloved educators.

Mrs. Colleen McDowell P‘01 and Mr. Bernie Reinckens P‘06 both retired last June. We extend our deepest gratitude to Mrs. McDowell and Mr. Reinckens for their devotion to Mount de Sales Academy and their commitment to the students. We wish them the best with their future endeavors!

“T

he 19 years I spent as an English teacher and department chair at Mount de Sales were a labor of love. My time in the classroom

was a joy as I was surrounded by the very best young women the world has to offer, and I understood the privilege and responsibility of influencing them to embrace learning and scholarship. I have had the great fortune of being able to teach in such a blessed environment. For that I will always be grateful.

I believe the Lord is calling me now to work with the underprivileged: feeding the homeless at Our Daily Bread, volunteering at Sisters Academy, or working in a literacy program for young adults.

I will embrace whatever opportunities present themselves because I believe it is important for all of us to use our gifts for the benefit of others.”

“E

ven though I just retired from teaching in June, my thoughts and prayers will always be with MDSA. What a joy it was to teach the

girls French for nine years. I enjoyed their wonderful spirit, faith in God, and service to others. I particularly loved when they visited the school after graduation to say how well prepared they were for college and for life.

What a pleasure it was to have been part of such a faith-filled community and to have made so many friends. I enjoyed working at MDSA because it not only boasts a proud tradition, but also has a dynamic future as evidenced by a very capable administration, dedicated faculty, committed Board of Trustees, and academic excellence.

I do enjoy retirement and the sunny weather of Florida, but I must admit that I miss you all.”

8

ON CAMPUS

Hello!

We are thrilled to welcome 11 new faculty and staff members to Mount de Sales Academy, each of whom brings their own special talents and expertise to share with our students.

Jennifer Jeske P’15

Sister Marie Genevieve Robertson, O.P.

English Teacher

Religion & French Teacher

Gillian Bourassa

Michael Mnkande

Jamie Shinault

Social Science Teacher

IT Support Specialist

Fine Arts & Physical Education Teacher Communications & Design Assistant

Sister Mary Brigid Burnham, O. P.

Sister Mary Esther Potts, O.P.

Mary Sier

Religion & Spanish Teacher

Religion Teacher

Math Teacher

Dr. John Paul Jendrek

Catie Rehkemper P’19

Denise Zambotti P’15 ’17 ’19

Math Teacher

Sacred Heart Testing Coordinator

Math Teacher & Sailor Shop Manager

9

he t g n i r Ente d: o o h r e Sist of s s a l C The

CLASS PRESIDENT:

Joanna Puglisi

CLASS VPs:

Abigail Monaco & Samantha Sheldon

CLASS SECRETARY:

Gabriela Rivas-de Leon

9 1 0 2

THE CLASS OF 2019 is the largest in school

FAST FACTS

history. A class of 135 students means more of everything — more Miraculous Medals, mailboxes, lockers, and even more juniors with two little sisters — and it also brings our school more blessings. Our freshmen are not to be overshadowed by their large number; each girl contributes

STUDENTS:

135

in her own way to Mount de Sales. And, just as Mount de

STATES APPLIED FROM:

4

Sales girls take many forms, the legacies they leave do as well. Whether our freshmen are related to alumnae or the first in their families to become Sailors, every legacy has to start somewhere. We are proud of our freshmen and thankful that they and their families are committed to the Mount de Sales mission!

10

ZIP CODES:

43

FEEDER SCHOOLS:

33

PARISHES:

46

ON CAMPUS

SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS CLASS TREASURER:

CLASS CHAPLAIN:

Angela Tozzi

Abigail Dean

FATHER DUERR

SEMPER FI

Theresa Balick Homeschool

Katie Korpacz St. Louis School

Anna Jones Monsignor Slade School

Maryanne Macdonald Immaculate Conception School

Kristen Zaranski St. Augustine School

Hannah Wiseman St. John the Evangelist School

ST. THOMAS AQUINAS

Elizabeth Rehkemper St. Agnes School

Julia Abell Trinity School Josephine Borsh St. Augustine School

Mary Beall St. Mark School

Julia Seeley Homeschool

Claira Cunningham Homeschool

ST. CECILIA MUSIC

Angelica de Guzman St. Louis School

Julia Seeley Homeschool Samantha Sheldon St. Augustine School FRA ANGELICO ART Sophia Averza Trinity School Olivia Fuselier School of the Incarnation ST. MARTIN DE PORRES Maryanne Macdonald Immaculate Conception School

12

STUDENTS

STUDENTS

CONTINUING A LEGACY

BROADENING A LEGACY

(grandmother, mother, or sister graduated from MDSA)

(other relative graduated from MDSA)

83 STUDENTS

STARTING A LEGACY!

GOLDEN COUNSEL

Lillian Pope St. Louis School

Emily Ripley Arbutus Middle School

40

Jenny Ziegenhein St. Philip Neri School

Alejandra Sullivan Our Lady of Victory School

Ellie DeGroote School of the Incarnation Kathleen Hua Trinity School Gracee Hutchinson Our Lady of Perpetual Help Grace Jennings Resurrection-St. Paul School Maryanne Macdonald Immaculate Conception School Allison Moses Trinity School Sophie Palmer Our Lady of Victory School Elizabeth Resch Catonsville Middle School

KNOTT SECONDARY

Samantha Sheldon St. Augustine School

Colleen Roche Our Lady of Perpetual Help

Amanda Silvers St. Louis School

Regan Zeaser School of the Incarnation

Sophia Spedden Sacred Heart School

GUARDIANS OF LIFE

Angela Tozzi School of the Incarnation

Isabella Chilcoat Our Lady of Victory School

11

Setting the World

ABLAZE We recently sat down with Campus Minister

MEGAN MASTROIANNI to discuss the Campus Ministry program at Mount de Sales Academy and her experience as emcee and speaker with the Ascension Press Café at the World Meeting of Families.

“Ms. Mastroianni and the campus ministry group are very inspirational, especially with their last service project, the Sleep Out for the Homeless. They opened our eyes to the world in the way God wants us to see it.”

- Ali Young ‘16 12

?

CAN YOU SHARE HOW THE CAMPUS MINISTRY PROGRAM IS UNIQUE AT MDSA?

EVENTS

The Campus Ministry program is about the student. The mission of Campus Ministry is to inspire

Morning Mass

every girl at Mount de Sales to become who they are created to be by God; the goal is that she

iPray (Adoration, Confession, music)

may know she is magnificent, loved, worthy, and unrepeatable because she is a daughter of the King. This program doesn’t simply go through the motions. We have retreats and engage in

First Friday All-School Masses

service opportunities not because it’s required, but because it’s an opportunity for each girl to

Monthly Adoration & Confession

know what life is really about. The Campus Ministry program puts the mission of Mount de Sales

Christian Speakers

Academy into action.

?

Senior Retreat Junior Retreat

HOW HAVE YOU WITNESSED THE HOLY SPIRIT WORKING IN THE LIVES OF THE

MOUNT DE SALES ACADEMY STUDENTS?

Sometimes I feel like I have the greatest job in the world. The Holy Spirit is ALWAYS seeking after

Freshman/Sophomore Retreat Day Mount 2000 Retreat

His children! I see Him at work every single day. I have the privilege to witness Him awaken in

Steubenville Youth Conference

a girl’s heart her desire for everlasting love. Through my daily interactions with the girls, I watch

Respect Life Sunday

Him break down the walls and the lies that they are not beautiful or good enough or worthy of

40 Days for Life

love. I watch Him put on their hearts a desire for more than what they’re offered by this busy and

Maryland March for Life

noisy culture that leaves our attention stuffed but our souls starved.

?

National March for Life in D.C.

HOW HAS YOUR WORK AS CAMPUS MINISTER IMPACTED YOUR OWN FAITH?

Catholic Lobby Night in Annapolis

It keeps me praying. Who am I to be Christ’s instrument? When I witness Christ at work in a

Monthly Bagged Lunches

girl’s heart, it reminds me of God’s own love for me. I’m faced with His mercy all over again.

Gabriel Network 5K for Life

Through doing His work, I experience His love.

?

Frederick Villa Nursing Home once per month

YOU WERE A GUEST SPEAKER AT THE WORLD MEETING OF FAMILIES 2015 YOUTH

CONGRESS IN PHILADELPHIA. WHAT A DISTINGUISHED HONOR! CAN YOU ELABORATE ON THIS MONUMENTAL EVENT AND ON POPE FRANCIS' FIRST VISIT TO THE U.S?

The trip to Philadelphia was surreal! Visiting a city buzzing with excitement and peace and

Prayer vigil for the unborn twice per month

CLUBS

anticipation was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Pope Francis has sparked people’s

Sodality of the Immaculate Conception

attention. He’s reaching people of all different walks of life and faith and is inviting them into

Teens for Catholic Action

the wide open arms of Christ. His message of hope and mercy was tangible in the city of

Students for Life of America

Philadelphia. I spoke with a local who said it was “as if a blanket of love has covered the whole city.” It was so powerful! And yes, it was a huge honor to speak with Ascension Press at the Convention Center for the World Meeting of Families. I had a blast with all of the speakers and musicians that came in for the week. I emceed Wednesday and Thursday, and I gave two talks. I was pretty tired by the end of it, but the adrenaline and excitement kept me going.

PILGRIMAGES World Youth Day Archdiocesan Palm Sunday Pilgrimage

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YOU HAVE A BEAUTIFUL NEW OFFICE SPACE THIS YEAR. HOW HAS

THIS ENHANCED YOUR ROLE AS CAMPUS MINISTER?

I am beyond blessed and grateful for my new space. I want it to say “Come on in! All are welcome!” and I think it does that. Logistically

}

it has helped me so much. Now I can have group meetings, and it’s comfortable and conducive for creativity. It’s really beautiful.

13

ON CAMPUS

MICHAEL MNKANDE

SPOTLIGHT ON TECHNOLOGY

IT Support Specialist

BY LINDSEY MURPHY, EDUCATIONAL TECHNOLOGY DIRECTOR & MATH TEACHER

Mount de Sales Academy has successfully launched a 1:1 bring your own device technology program for the 2015-2016 school year. All freshmen, sophomores, and juniors have their own device, and roughly 65 percent of seniors have chosen to participate as well.

In only a few short weeks, technology integration has proven to be a meaningful addition to the educational process. Not only does the use of technology make lessons and communication more seamless, but it also provides for more interactive and collaborative BACKGROUND: Since the first day I touched a computer as a young boy, I knew I’d found my passion. I attended college at State University of New York Plattsburgh with a major in information technology and a minor in management information systems. I loved it!

learning experiences both in and out of the classroom.

Through technology, students have experienced the ability to learn anywhere at any time.

Religion and English teacher Sister Angela Marie likes that technology “helps provide information and resources that the students can access later.” This was evidenced early by a student who missed the beginning of her science class, yet chose to complete her daily warm-up through Edline while waiting at the doctor’s office. In addition, the 1:1 program has helped many students with organization of class materials and made the classroom experience more efficient. Raili Siebert ’17 comments, “Using the tablets makes it easier

RESPONSIBILITIES AS IT SUPPORT SPECIALIST: My typical work day is comprised of addressing student or teacher device issues. Problems range from updates to software to hardware to network. The Helpdesk ticketing system helps track problems users experience with ease. I also work closely with the MDSA Network Administrator, Mr. Matas Webb, in solving infrastructure-based issues, deploying software and machines in classes, labs, and offices, while implementing various state-of-the-art solutions to enhance our users’ learning experience.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE ABOUT WORKING AT MDSA? I love the people. I believe the people are what make a good work environment in any setting.

The MDSA community is full of love and support for one another. I cannot be grateful enough to Mount de Sales.

14

to take notes. I like how I always have them on my laptop, and I can have everything in one spot.”

Students also regularly use technology to collaborate with their classmates. They can use the Collaboration Space in their OneNote Class Notebooks to work together on group and whole-class activities, quickly sharing their contributions with the teacher and other students. English teacher Kim Nava says, “The collaboration is the best part of technology for me. My students are able to work together in ways they hadn’t been able to before.”

Now, students can cooperate on group assignments outside of class by working in the same space of the digital notebook without actually being in the same room.

Overall, the technology program at Mount de Sales is off to a terrific start. The enthusiasm shown for technology use by teachers and students alike is contagious. I have enjoyed witnessing not only students learning from teachers, but also teachers learning from students and students learning from each other as we move through this new journey together.

FROM THE PRESIDENT OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Dear Friends: In a continuing effort to keep you apprised of the work of the Board of Trustees, I wanted to start off the New Year with an update on the progress made towards our goals outlined in the 2013-2018 Strategic Plan.

The overview of the Strategic Plan has been previously shared with many of you and is available on the MDSA website.

SUSTAINING EXCELLENCE Every seven years member schools of the Middle States Association (MSA) must complete a rigorous reaccreditation process to ensure they meet standards of quality and accountability.

Recognizing that Mount de Sales Academy consistently provides an exceptional education, the MSA invited and accepted Mount de Sales’

As announced last year in our State-of-the-School address, we have

application for participation in the new Sustaining

begun the due diligence for Phase III of the Capital Campaign for

Excellence Protocol for reaccreditation. This

the Performing Arts Building. As part of this process, two new ad hoc

is an honor, as it demonstrates the MSA’s

committees, Business Model and Fine Arts Feasibility and Planning,

acknowledgement of Mount de Sales as a “leading

were formed to work in conjunction with the Facilities Committee. The Facilities Committee completed a vigorous study of our facilities and

school” that achieves and maintains high levels of student performance.

presented a proposed campus-wide space utilization plan to the Board

The Sustaining Excellence Protocol offers Mount

of Trustees in November 2015. The Business Model Committee also

de Sales an exciting opportunity to ensure we

completed building an amazing financial model, allowing us to input many “what if” scenarios to project tuition levels, financial aid needs,

meet educational standards as well as research an area of our institution we desire to improve. We will focus our Action Research Initiative on this

and the financial impact of our space utilization plan. The data from

question: As we increase the use of technology in

these two committees will be utilized by the Fine Arts Feasibility and

the building, how can we ensure that relationships

Planning Committee to make what we feel will be the best decisions

and friendships are not impacted in a negative

on timing, size, and cost of the proposed Fine Arts Building.

The current and anticipated information gained from the Feasibility Committee will have a significant and long-lasting impact on Mount

way? Our community will implement a two- to three-yearlong research project and, through a colloquium, share our results with the wider educational community.

de Sales Academy. Through solid and thoughtful research, we will be well positioned to make sound financial decisions and realize the goals of the Strategic Plan.

We intend to provide a more definitive direction on our next steps with Phase III of the Capital Campaign for the Performing Arts Building in the spring.

Best wishes for a happy and healthy New Year!

Sincerely,

Joseph Geier P’08 ’12 ’17 President

“The Sustaining Excellence Protocol will allow us to spend less time and energy proving that we meet the standards of excellence in education and more time conducting action research within our school community.”

-Principal Sister Mary Thomas, O.P.

Board of Trustees 15

ON CAMPUS

O

n the afternoon of October 13, members of the Mount de Sales Academy community gathered to

CELEBRATING

celebrate the unveiling of donor monuments honoring

OUR SAILOR FRIENDS

benefactors of Phase I and Phase II of the Anchored in Excellence

PRINCIPAL SISTER MARY THOMAS, O.P.

Charting our Future Capital Campaign.

Guests enjoyed hearing from Principal Sister Mary Thomas,

“Today our theme is

Chaplain Rev. Al Scharbach, Danielle Manser ‘16, Sister

gratitude. We are grateful

Mary Brigid, Board of Trustees President Joe Geier P’08

for the work of these last

‘12 ‘17, and Director of Development Beth Saverino ‘87 as

five years, the work of

they reflected on the many blessings bestowed on Mount de Sales Academy throughout the years.

our Sisters over the last 30 years, including Sister Philip Joseph and all of the Sisters who served

With gratitude to God, Mount de Sales Academy proudly honors the

here, and the work of

alumnae, parents, grandparents, faculty, staff, friends, and Board of

all those that came even

Trustees members whose selfless generosity demonstrates a spirit of

before them to contribute to who we are today.

giving and a commitment our mission.

We are blessed by the many individuals who supported Phase I and Phase II of the Anchored in Excellence

Charting our Future Capital

Campaign. Donors contributed $5.5 million for Phase I, funding the new convent, 1852 Building heating and air conditioning system, and campus security, and $1.7 million for Phase II, providing for a regulation turf athletic field and hillside stadium seating.

This monument names benefactors who contributed $1,000 or more to the completion of these Campaigns. We recognize and thank everyone, named and unnamed, who made Anchored in Excellence

Charting our Future possible through their gifts of prayer, service,

and financial support.

We study and work in a building with state-ofthe-art air conditioning and heating. Our teams hold approximately 100 games and 300 practices on this field each year.

Our Sisters pray, study, work, and live religious life within the MDSA

We are grateful to everyone in our community, past and present, for believing in Mount de

community right here

Sales Academy. Our success today is propelled by the many unsung heroes who helped the

because of the convent.

Academy endure through less bountiful times. Their legacy lives on as we thrive.

These are many reasons for which to be grateful.”

“BLESSED, INDEED, IS THE SOUL IN WHICH CHARITY IS POURED OUT; TOGETHER WITH THAT VIRTUE ALL OTHER BLESSINGS COME.” St. Francis de Sales

16

ON CAMPUS

“Although I would enjoy a few early dismissals when Baltimore County

TEACHER SISTER MARY BRIGID, O.P.

absolute blessing that we can remain in school without freezing or sweating and continue on with our day comfortably.

Something about this home turf really gives me pride. Today as we walk down the steps onto the turf field, there is a feeling of excitement, and that is all because of you. Overall, none of this would ever be possible without you and your generosity. We as a whole community are truly blessed to have such wonderful people like you willing to donate money and allowing us to have all of these amazing things.”

has remained the same since 1852: God and the chapel as the center

closed due to extreme temperatures, it is an

“The heart of the school

of our lives and school, “We offer thanks to you,

and sisterhood that builds

our convent benefactors.

you up as a student

With profound delight

and supports you as an

and gratitude I saw the

alumna. This is possible

manner of house God

because of the collective

had provided for me by

gifts of everyone in our

means of gifts from you, His faithful stewards and servants. Your names are listed on plaques at various doorways in the convent, and I have paused by them to pray

community. Today we

Your Annual Fund Gift Helps in Countless Ways!

$ YOUR GIFT: Maintains an affordable tuition in the bottom

celebrate the dedication

third of

of those who have come

Baltimore-area

before us, those present

Catholic high

today, and the future generations who will make their way across the

schools

$ YOUR GIFT:

cobble stones, past the

Offers one of

for you and your family

columns, and eventually

the lowest

and their needs.

through the Music Hall

student-to-

Our thanks is due first

windows. I invite you to

teacher ratios

to God, our heavenly

stay with us. Based on

of the Baltimore-

Father, who provides for

what I have experienced

area Catholic

us with lavish generosity,

at Mount de Sales, I know

high schools

who has given success

that nothing is impossible

to the works of your

with God. Thank you for

hands and prospered

all you have done and

Helps to cover

continue to do for the

the nearly $600

your businesses, who has blessed and protected us

students of MDSA.”

been moved to share His gifts to you with us.”

$ YOUR GIFT:

differential between tuition

and you, so that you have

STUDENT DANIELLE MANSER ‘16

WE NEED YOU!

DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT BETH SAVERINO ‘87

and the actual cost to educate a Mount de Sales Academy girl

Many gifts make a

BIG difference.

THANK YOU! 17

ON CAMPUS

Alumnae Association HOMECOMING Hurricane Joaquin invited himself to HOMECOMING this year, and the Mount de Sales Alumnae Association adapted

their

plans

and

moved

Homecoming festivities inside. Classes, clubs, and sports teams held their activities and sold food and desserts in the Music Hall and cafeteria.

The National English Honor Society sponsored cornhole games throughout the day, and Principal Sister Mary Thomas jumped in to toss a few bean bags. The smell of cotton candy wafted through the Music Hall from the tennis team’s fundraiser, and kids lined up to have their face painted by members of the Drama Club.

Despite the forecast, rain held off for most of the day. The field hockey and soccer teams were still able to play

Are you an alumna who would

their games on the turf and volleyball

like to be more involved with

hosted Catonsville High in the gym.

your alma mater? Contact

Many families and alumnae came back

Director of Alumnae Relations

to visit the campus. The class of 1995

Elizabeth Binette Mahon ‘07 to

met up for a tour of the building as part

find the perfect fit for you!

of their 20-year reunion, and Elizabeth Goldberg Gunther ’70 brought five of her grandchildren to enjoy the day.

18

emahon@mountdesales.org 410.744.8498 x265

ON CAMPUS

n’s Autumn Activities CRAB FEAST The 2015 CRAB FEAST at Mount de Sales Academy was a huge success with a sellout crowd! After Mass in the Chapel of St. Francis de Sales, friends and family of MDSA filled the gym and cracked endless crabs, provided

by Harris Crab House, and enjoyed delicious food from Monaghan’s Pub. “We’ve been hosting this event for seven years, and this was by far the best one yet!” says Alumnae Association Treasurer Jeanne Schaible Langeluttig ’84.

Guests raved about the Alumnae Association’s sold-out signature drink, “The Blue Anchor,” that came in a oneof-a-kind, limited edition stemless wine glass. The silent auction, introduced last year, was greatly expanded by Colleen McKenna ’07 and her silent auction committee.

With more than 30 items, the awesome auction increased profits by 87 percent over its inaugural year.

Thank you to everyone who supported the Crab Feast.

Your involvement benefits students through the Alumnae Association Scholarships. Currently, four students receive scholarships made possible through Alumnae Association activities like the Crab Feast.

This growing event needs your support! There are many ways to get involved: donate an item for the silent auction, volunteer for a shift with the money wheel, sell raffle tickets, or serve on the silent auction committee. Join us next year and get your tickets early as we anticipate another sellout!

19

ALUMNAE NEWS

Alumnae Spotlight JACKIE SEBODA PFEILER ’86 Jackie shares memories from Mount de Sales in the 1980s and reflects on how her high school years influenced her life.

She currently serves as Vice President of Finance at St. John Properties.

The 1985 Championship Lacrosse Team.

Jackie is pictured in the back row, fifth from the left.

Q:

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE MEMORIES FROM YOUR TIME AT MOUNT DE SALES ACADEMY?

Q:

HOW CAN YOU RELATE YOUR SUCCESS BACK TO YOUR FORMATIVE YEARS AT MDSA?

Many of my favorite memories are sports-related. My all-time

Mount de Sales not only taught me how to become a good

favorite year was 1985; it was a great year to be a Sailor athlete.

student, but also how to become a good person. An education

We won the Catholic League Championship in basketball and

should develop life skills that a person will carry with her after

played in the Fuel Fund Game at the Baltimore Civic Center. In

high school and college in order to navigate relationships and

lacrosse we finished the year as undefeated league Champions

careers. As a student I was taught self-discipline, respect for

with a record of 19-0. When I started as a freshman at MDSA,

authority, and how to become a confident woman.

we did not have a gym and the lacrosse field was just completed.

To see what the school offers today for athletics is amazing.

Some other memorable experiences include singing cheers on

Q:

AS V. P. OF FINANCE AT ST. JOHN PROPERTIES, WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT ASPECT OF YOUR JOB?

the bus to away basketball games, senior hook day, lunches in

Time management and discipline. The ability to effectively plan

the cafeteria with Gracie the lunch lady, dusting the statues for

and organize means that you are more likely to get the job done

detention, the arrival of the Dominican Sisters, and graduation

correctly the first time. Planning and organization also requires

— a timeless tradition.

teamwork. To be successful you need the social skills to deal with colleagues, make critical decisions, and solve problems.

Q:

WHAT MDSA FACULTY MEMBER, ADMINISTRATOR,

I look back at my time at MDSA and realize these skills were

COACH, OR OTHER PERSON INFLUENCED YOU?

formed there.

The most influential person would be my lacrosse coach, Bill Held. Bill was a pioneer in a sport traditionally coached by women. He was the ultimate motivator and knew how to push

Q:

IF YOU COULD GIVE ADVICE TO YOUR 16-YEAR-OLD SELF, WHAT WOULD IT BE?

each girl to her fullest potential. For me personally, he helped

As a mom I think about this a great deal. Here is my advice:

shape the woman I am today. He taught me to fight for what

1. Never lose faith in what you are doing; believe in yourself.

you want, never to give up, make sacrifices for your team, and,

2. There’s no quick, easy road to success. It takes hard work

most of all, to believe in yourself. Bill is the coach who made us champions on the field and in life.

and dedication. Be patient. Your time will come.

3. True happiness comes with a sense of purpose, a sense of accomplishment, and the satisfaction of helping others.

20

ALUMNAE NEWS

’80s

’90s

THE CLASS OF 1985 honored their graduation year with a

CHRISTINE RUSSEL DUDA planned the 20-year reunion

special reunion Mass celebrated by Father Gene Nickol, the

for the Class of 1995, which was held on Saturday, October 3.

same priest who presided over their Baccalaureate Mass 30

Classmates brought their families to Homecoming Day and then

years ago. Thank you to PATTI WATERS HITTEL, KELLY

celebrated in the evening at Matthew’s 1600 in Catonsville.

HUME JOHNSON, KIM WEEKS PANEBIANCO and KAY MCELGUNN EVERETT for all of your hard work in planning the reunion.

ANN MARIE TIROCCHI-BYRD ’88 P’19 is an English

’00s

Language Arts Specialist at Freedom Elementary School. She

KATRINA ZALENKA MACWHORTER and JULIA VIDMAR

has been selected to receive an Edna May Merson Scholarship

planned the 15-year reunion for the Class of 2000 this past fall.

from the Council of Educational Administrative and Supervisory

Everyone gathered at Mount de Sales for a reception in Alumnae

Organizations of Maryland.

Hall and toured the 1852 Building. Following the festivities on

’90s

campus, classmates ended the night at the Red Star in Fells Point.

THE CLASS OF 1990 celebrated their 25-year reunion at the Crab Feast this year. Thank you to JOAN MICELI ROBINSON and AMY BURDETTE for organizing the reunion.

21

ALUMNAE NEWS

’00s

’00s

’00s

MEGHAN WALTON YOUNG ‘02 and

to Mississippi and met Michael. They

KATE

her husband, Patrick, welcomed their first

were married in their new home parish

husband Justin were thrilled to welcome

son, Tristan Gregory, into the world on

by their pastor. CASEY PRINCE ’08

their first child, Brooks Oliver Yost, into

June 23, 2015, at 8:36 a.m.

and ELIZABETH LEUMAS ’04 were

the world on July 6, 2015, at 11:37 p.m.

members of the bridal party. Ashley works

He weighed 6 pounds 4 ounces.

MARTEL

YOST

’08

and

in an architecture firm in Ocean Springs, and Michael is a mechanical engineer with Huntington-Ingalls Industries. The happy couple plans to reside in the eclectic seaside town of Ocean Springs, MS.

’10s

DANIELLE KO ‘03 and husband, Brian, are excited to announce the birth of their daughter, Cecilia Helene Gaspar. She was born on June 12, 2015, weighing 7 pounds

STEPHANIE PAYTON ’10 graduated

6.5 ounces. She joins big sister Lena.

from St. Mary’s College of Maryland in THE CLASS OF 2005 celebrated their

2014 with a double major in biology

10-year reunion at Barcocina in Fells Point.

and psychology. After taking a gap year

Thank you to DANIELLE RHINEHART

and working as a medical scribe for two

TURNER and JENNIFER HACKETT

hospitals, she started medical school

for coordinating the event.

at University of Maryland School of Medicine, Class of 2019.

JODI SCHNEIDER MAYHAK ’12 and husband Brennen celebrated their nuptial Mass at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel in Littleton, CO, on the Assumption of

Our

Lady,

August

15,

2015.

ASHLEY PRINCE ’04 married Michael

ALEXANDRA PAYTON ‘08 earned a

Bridesmaids included Mount de Sales

Rodriguez

2015,

degree in biology and chemistry from St.

alumnae SARAH SCHNEIDER ’13,

at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church in

Mary’s College of Maryland. She is now

BRANAN DURBIN ‘12, VERONICA

Ocean Springs, MS. After receiving a

a third year medical school student at

ZOECKLER ‘12, KAITLYN BOLESTA

post-professional

in

Virginia Commonwealth University where

‘12,

architecture from The Catholic University

she hopes to specialize in either pediatrics

BRIDGET BOLAND ‘12.

of America in 2013, Ashley moved

or family medicine.

22

on

September

master’s

5,

degree

BROOKE DIGNAN ‘12,

and

Jodi’s photos are top left, page 23.

ALUMNAE NEWS

’10s

ON THE

COVER Sailors

from

the CLASS OF 1942

Please send your news

gather on the front porch

or the name of a recently

of Alumnae Hall. This

deceased alumna for

photo was discovered in a

inclusion in the View from

photo album of BETTIE

the Cupola to Elizabeth

GIBBONS MCNANEY ‘42 (back row, far left), the grandmother of LIZ

CONNELLY MAGIN ’13 is studying in Dublin, Ireland, with

SEND YOUR SAILOR NEWS

WILLIAMS JOHNSON

Binette Mahon ‘07 at emahon@mountdesales.org.

If you would like to include

‘95, social science chair.

a photo, please

Mount St. Mary’s University under a subset of Trinity College.

Today, Sailors from the

email a high-resolution

She had the pleasure of running into two of her fellow Mount

Class of 2019 assemble

.jpg or .tif file along

de Sales classmates on the streets of Galway! Both GRACE

on the porch in a similar

with your update.

DAVIS ‘13 and EMMA CALLAHAN ‘13 are studying at the

pose. Back row L to R:

National University of Ireland this semester, and they bumped

Sydney Roy, Jaida Wilson,

into

Connelly

after

Jennifer Taylor, Gabby

Have you recently moved or do you have a new email

Gonder,

address? Contact Elizabeth

Lexie Novak, and Sophie

Binette Mahon ’07 via email

Palmer. Front Row L to R:

at emahon@mountdesales.

Jenny Tran, Anna Grace

even after graduation

org or by at phone

Ryan, Ada Lindahl, Annie

from Mount de Sales!

410.744.8498 ext. 265.

Wright, and Lindsey Tolle.

Mass at the Cathedral.

It goes to show how connected the girls are

Wells,

Sarah

You are invited to

IN MEMORIAM

Thank you, MICHELLE

follow Mount de Sales

Please pray for the following alumnae who have entered eternal life:

ZALUCKI

for

Academy on Twitter:

recommending Jackie for

@MDSAhighschool.

MARY ANN CROOK KRAMER ‘41 THELMA FRAZIER MACK ‘48 ANN HARMON STEFFENS ‘48 ALICE MARIE DARBY FALTER ‘60 P ‘84 ‘86 GP ‘18 BETH STIGLER SHEPHERD ’66 SALLY GILLESPIE MUSCALLI ’74 THERESA MILLER ‘93

'84,

the Alumnae Spotlight on page 20. If you have an

We invite all alumnae,

alumna to suggest for a

friends, and families

future Spotlight, please

to like the "Mount de

contact Elizabeth Mahon

Sales Academy" page

'07, director of alumnae

on Facebook.

relations.

Join the Mount de Sales

ALUMNAE SAVE-THE-DATES Visit mountdesales.org for more info.

3.20

Sunday, March 20, 2016: ALUMNAE ASSOCIATION EASTER EGG HUNT (Event for alumnae children and grandchildren ages 0-9)

5.13

Friday, May 13, 2016: OUTDOOR MOVIE NIGHT AT MOUNT DE SALES

5.28

Saturday, May 28, 2016: 164TH COMMENCEMENT AT 3:30 P.M. IN THE MUSIC HALL Members of the Class of 1966 are invited as honored guests

Academy Alumnae networking group on LinkedIn.

Follow us on Instagram: @mountdesalesacademy.

23

MOUNT DE SALES ACADEMY

700 Academy Road Catonsville, MD 21228

Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Baltimore, MD Permit No. 6341

Artist: Claudia Routson ’16