Mercy Magazine

Mercy MAGAZINE

PAGE 9

Look who’s here!

SUMMER 2018

Dear Alumnae, Students, Parents, Faculty,

2018-19 Board of Trustees

Staff and Friends:,

Kathleen Kirk Bellwoar ‘81, Chair

During the first days of school in September 2017, I walked down the yellow corridor as our young women were changing classes. I heard their chatter as they moved along the busy hallway. When the next period doors closed, and the halls became silent, I asked myself two questions: Was this what I looked like almost 50 years ago, as a 14-year-old? What happened in these hallways, classrooms, labs, and on the athletic fields and stage that molded my 53 classmates and me? When I reflect on the many accomplishments of my class of ’72 peers: leaders in government, managing partners of law firms, PhD’s, partners in international consulting firms, educators who advocate for people with disabilities, and other worthwhile careers, I ask another question: Will the future classes of Gwynedd graduates have those same opportunities in such a different world?

The world has become more complicated. It moves faster; it is more transparent, global, and competitive; and because of that, our young women must be better prepared to take on all the opportunities available and navigate the many challenges of today’s world. We know at Gwynedd that we need to do something different to prepare our students. I am pleased by initial steps we have taken: an inaugural year for our internship opportunities, development of The Catherine Learning Program, initiation of our first crew program that hopefully will springboard college opportunities, a new STEM center and robotics club to strengthen students’ science and technology experience. However, we know there is more that we need to do.

Anne Diehl Casey ‘50 Michael DeCandido P’09, ‘16 Vincent Dolan P’89, ’91, ’92 Sr. Margaret Anne Dougherty, R.S.M. Linda Anna Gallante, Esq. ’72, P’08 Timothy Gillespie P’14 Brian Hannan Sr. Virginia Hasson, R.S.M. Kathleen Haley Hunsicker, Esq. ‘81 R. Tripp (Ray) Hyer P’16 Denise Corkery Marbach ’72, P’05, ‘09 Del Markward P‘12 Karen McKeaney ‘88 Sr. Honora Nicholson, R.S.M. Teresa Araco Rodgers ‘91 Kathleen M. Roeder, M.D. ’60, P’92, ‘92 Joseph Rose P’06, ’11 Karen A. Sullivan, M.D., P’13, ‘15 Sr. Mary Trainer, R.S.M. Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School Mission Statement Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School, a Catholic college-preparatory school, encourages young women to live and act justly in the spirit of Jesus Christ and to follow in the tradition of mercy and service inherited from Catherine McAuley, foundress of the Sisters of Mercy.

In the fall of 2018, we will outlay Gwynedd’s Strategic Plan, which we have been working on for several months. During this extensive process, we have captured 1,400 separate data points from you, our stakeholders, for consideration in our plan.

A data point consisted of a survey, a meeting or an interview. Based on early data inspection, a key pillar of our plan will focus on leadership development. We endeavor to cultivate young women who will become leaders in any field or role they choose, and in doing so, will leverage the values learned through their Gwynedd experience to better the world for everyone.

Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School respects individual differences and challenges each student to achieve academic excellence.

In addition to increasing our leadership development here at Gwynedd, I am also working alongside many women leaders to promote gender diversity in corporate America. This will give our young women more opportunity to be leaders in the C suite and board rooms in corporate and nonprofit organizations. Alumna State Rep. Kate Harper ’74 and I worked on Pennsylvania House Resolution 273 to encourage corporations and nonprofits to include at least 30 percent women on their boards of directors. As Kate stated when the bill passed, “This is not about quotas. Studies have repeatedly shown that when you have a diverse group making decisions, it has a better outcome.”

Empowering Young Women Rooted in Mercy

I appreciate all you have done to make my first year at Gwynedd a rewarding one.

I look forward too many more to come.

In Mercy,

Denise Corkery Marbach ’72, P’05, ’09 President

Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School empowers each student to develop her unique talents and abilities and to become a competent and compassionate Christian woman.

Mercy Mercy Magazine is published for the students, alumnae, parents and friends of Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School 1345 Sumneytown Pike P.O. Box 902 Gwynedd Valley, PA 19437 215-646-8815 gmahs.org

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The Class of 2018 The 93 young women in the Class of 2018 are ready to make a difference in the world.

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Interview with Denise Corkery Marbach ‘72 Zoe Rogers ’19 sat down with Gwynedd’s first President and shares observations.

Denise Corkery Marbach ’72, P’05, ‘09 President Mary E. Kirby Principal Mercy Magazine Editor Jennifer Benton Zandier ‘96 Contributors Karen Price Benson ’79, P’07, ‘10 Mimi Craig P’90, ’93 Kate Toolan Madden ‘97 Zoe Rogers ‘19 Anya Seehusahai ‘18 Photography Barksdale Photo Caitlin Fasano ‘09 Elizabeth Ferguson ‘18 Patricia Rosenberger P’12

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Introducing The Catherine Learning Program Meet founding Program Director Dr. Debra Chiaradonna

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Are you using the power of the Gwynedd Alumnae network?

Don’t underestimate the power of our Gwynedd network!

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Meet the newest members of the Board of Trustees

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Gwynedd’s Sisters of Mercy Esteemed Sisters of Mercy who have served at Gwynedd are honored.

MAGAZINE SUMMER 2018

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The New Crew Gwynedd adds Crew to its line-up of athletics programs!

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Mercy Travels Gwynedd’s global service and learning in Haiti, Puerto Rico, Ireland and right next door. Our students share their

reflections on their experiences.

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Great Gwynedd Alumnae Instagrams

Gwynedd Girls using the power of Instagram for business, wellness and fun.

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Happening@Gwynedd Social media is a great way to stay connected. Find out what’s going on and what’s coming up.

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Reunion Classes and Saluting our Stars Class Reunions, Margaret Beirn Barger ’35 Distinguished Alumna Award, Trocaire Leadership Awards and Athletic Hall of Fame

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Focus on Alumnae Alumnae Notes, Wedding Bells, New Arrivals, Rest in Peace

Join us on September 22 to celebrate our athletic enhancements! see page 8

Stay Connected

Join us!

Visit our website gmahs.org • Send your email address to alumnae@gmahs.org

Congratulations to the

Class of 2018 Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School celebrated its 157th Commencement Exercises with great fanfare mixed with tradition, reverence, and joy! Filled with excitement and anticipation, 93 seniors entered the Performing Arts Center, led by notable flag bearers—Alumnae Association President Bethanne Mascio Connolly ’03 and Student Council President Stephanie Ierardi ’19—and left as confident Alumnae of the Class of 2018, ready to begin life outside the hallowed red and gold corridors.

Following the elegant procession of seniors, faculty and the Board of Trustees dressed in academic attire, all were seated as they listened to the Invocation speaker, Maura Toner. Maura thanked God for four years of friendship, learning and sisterhood and “all those who have given of their gifts and talents and who have enabled us to graduate today—our teachers, mentors, parents, families and loved ones.”

The Salutatory Address was presented by Alexandra Small, who eloquently conveyed her personal and shared experiences of school spirit, kind friends, and supportive teachers. While she acknowledged that within this class there will be “future doctors, lawyers, artists and engineers,” she emphasized that what they all have in common now is the “drive, determination, confidence, compassion, intelligence, integrity, selflessness and self-respect values ingrained into us through our experiences here.”

Next, the 93 graduates shared a song selected from the movie “High School Musical” entitled Just Wanna Be with You by Andrew Dodd and Adam Watts, before accepting their diplomas and awards in a grand tradition, replete with white gowns, and

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gloves. Awards were accepted in areas of academics and service, including the Mother Mary Bernard Gold Medal of Honor, Karen D’Lauro ’60 Gold Medal for School Spirit, Sister Mary Loyola Gold Medal for Service and the Michele Granozio ’86 Gold Medal for Leadership, Loyalty and Example of Christian Womanhood.

Alumna and Trustee Sister Cathe Shoulberg, R.S.M. ’65 served as this year’s Commencement Speaker. She began her stirring message by thanking parents and loved ones for entering a “sacred partnership” with Gwynedd Mercy Academy and enabling these young ladies in “becoming the beautiful women who stand before us this morning.” Sister spoke of the graduates “learning and growing in the mercy tradition: the seeds of Mercy have been planted and taken root in each of you.” She emphasized the responsibility and obligation to “bring mercy to our world in a way that is unique to you….”

Following recognition of the National Merit Scholars and members of the National Honor Society, Elizabeth Anne Hasson presented the Valedictory Address. Elizabeth drew laughter at the mention of nights of homework, dances, performances, pep rallies and tie-dyed red and gold t-shirts, but she also touched the hearts of her fellow classmates when she reminded them of their “growth as strong independent women of Mercy” and how “it speaks to the bond we share with our parents who gifted us with this special and life-changing education.” To Elizabeth, a Gwynedd Mercy education is a “badge of honor that we will wear long after this ceremony ends.”

The ceremony ended with smiles and tears as voices joined in the Alma Mater and the Class of 2018 recessed out into a future bright with possibilities.

College Choices Gwynedd proudly presents the college choices of our Class of 2018. All are attending a four-year college.

Students Receiving Scholarships: 90 97% of senior class Scholarship Dollars Awarded: $16,233,617

Isabella Morgan Adamson

Sophie Grace Craig

Carley Rose Fusco

Jacqueline Mary Albor

Danielle JuneMarie Crane

Lilly Ainsley Gilmore

Paige Allison Angelus

Kathryn Grace Cusumano

Lucy Tamsin May Glover

Lauren Ann Dennin

Anna Isabella Gola

Oluwasemilore Omorinsayo Awosika

Brynn Elizabeth Diamond

Holly Elizabeth Grosse

Elizabeth Linda Beyerle

Emily Elizabeth Dorr

Erica Theresa Guinette

University of Miami

Pennsylvania State University Old Dominion University

Victoria Teresa Araco Villanova University

University of Pittsburgh

West Chester University of Pennsylvania

Anna Nicole Braccio Drexel University

Mary Kate Caputo Drexel University

Bridget Elizabeth Casey Lehigh University

Erin Anita Cassidy

Gwynedd Mercy University

Rhiannon Marie Cassidy Delaware Valley University

Abigail Lisa Coachi Fordham University

Gettysburg College

Saint Joseph’s University

The Catholic University of America The University of Tampa

Pennsylvania State University La Salle University

Erin Kathryn Dougherty Fordham University

Yuchen Du

Rutgers University

Gabrielle Marie D’Ulisse Temple University

Lauren Rebecca Esser Temple University

Elizabeth Ann Ferguson Liberty University

Erin Kelly Ferns

Widener University

Tabitha Alexis Flagler

Saint Joseph’s University

West Chester University of Pennsylvania

Maura Anne Conroy

Grace Kelliann Fuller

Haley Elizabeth Conroy

University of Dayton

West Chester University of Pennsylvania

Drexel University

University of Miami

Massachusetts College of Art and Design Boston College

University of South Carolina University of Maryland, College Park

Brynne Gabrielle Hanson West Chester University of Pennsylvania

Elizabeth Anne Hasson Villanova University

Jiabei He

Baylor University

Carly Elizabeth Heineman The University of Scranton

Olivia Grace Hill

Savannah College of Art and Design

Amanda Gale Hornig University of Delaware

Molly Marie Hutton Villanova University

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Nicole Eubynn Hwang

CLASS of 2018 Graduation Awards Mother Mary Bernard Gold Medal of Honor

Elizabeth Anne Hasson Karen D’Lauro ’60 Gold Medal for School Spirit

Elizabeth Ann Ferguson Sister Mary Loyola Gold Medal for Service

Haley Elizabeth Conroy Michele Granozio ’86 Gold Medal for Leadership, Loyalty and Example of Christian Womanhood

Bridget Kathleen Lee Mother Margaret Mary Gold Medal for Highest General Average

Maura Claire Toner Honorable Mention: Elizabeth Anne Hasson Gold Medal for Art

Temple University

Maura Aileen Jaquay Daemen College

Madeline Grace Johnston Duquesne University

Grace Elizabeth Kelly Drexel University

Kathleen Margaret Kelm La Salle University

University of Pittsburgh

Grace Marie Larivee Drexel University

Bridget Kathleen Lee Salve Regina University

Marina Dhillon Llopis

The University of Alabama

Lauren Rose McGee

Gold Medal for History

Gettysburg College

Erin Marie Mele

Duquesne University

Paige Helene Merlino Tulane University

Alexis Casey Miller

Clemson University

Julia Rose Kreutzer

Gold Medal for English

Emma Holly Palermo Honorable Mention: Addie Elizabeth Olsen

Lauren Carmelita McVeigh

Michaela Kathleen Moore

Boston College

Mary Colleen McDonnell

Gold Medal for French

The Catholic University of America

Temple University

Jamie Lee Kim

Holly Elizabeth Grosse Honorable Mention: Olivia Grace Hill Elizabeth Anne Hasson Honorable Mention: Emma Holly Palermo

Sarah Anne McKenzie

Loyola University Maryland Lynn University

Aine Margaret McGonigle Point Park University

Camryn Maryann McGrath The George Washington University

Elizabeth Anne Hasson Honorable Mention: Emma Holly Palermo Gold Medal for Mathematics Maura Claire Toner Honorable Mention: Camryn Maryann McGrath

Courtney Marie Narkoff The University of Alabama

Xiaolin Ni

University of Massachusetts, Amherst

Molly Claire O’Brien University of Delaware

MaryClaire O’Kane La Salle University

Maria Ann Olbrich

Pennsylvania State University, Altoona

Addie Elizabeth Olsen

The Peabody Institute of The Johns Hopkins University

Madelyn Jane Ormond Purdue University

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Gold Medal for Music Addie Elizabeth Olsen Honorable Mention: Amanda Gale Hornig Gold Medal for Science Camryn Maryann McGrath Honorable Mention: Maura Claire Toner Gold Medal for Spanish

Elizabeth Anne Hasson Honorable Mention: Maura Claire Toner

2000

Gold Medal for Theology

Elizabeth Anne Hasson Honorable Mention: Maura Claire Toner

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The Ferguson sisters gather to celebrate youngest sister’s graduation by recreating photo taken on older sister’s graduation day! Pictured left to right: Danielle Ferguson, Elizabeth Ferguson ’18, Rachael Ferguson Geraghty ’00, and Julia Ferguson.

Emma Holly Palermo

Breanna Nicole Sundheim

Fiona Anne Powell

Julia Agnes Thompson

Kylie Elizabeth Purcaro

Brigid Kate Toner

Samantha Marie Radomski

Maura Claire Toner

Erica Elizabeth Robertson

Grace Elizabeth Van Thuyne

Olivia Marie Robinson

Jeana Marie Vose

Meghan Kathleen Romano

Lauren Catherine Wells

Kylie Hope Saloma

Shaelynn Delaney Worthington

University of Pennsylvania Northeastern University University of South Carolina University of Central Florida Temple University

Saint Joseph’s University La Salle University

Quinnipiac University

Veronica Rose Sansone The University of Scranton

Lauren Elizabeth Savini

Pennsylvania State University

Gabrielle Marie Saxon Fairfield University

University of Pittsburgh

2018 awards

Drexel University

Duquesne University University of Virginia

University of Pittsburgh Elon University

Pennsylvania State University

University of New Haven

Genevieve Grace Wurtz Loyola University Maryland

Alaina Marie Zaki Drexel University

Director of Alumnae Engagement Karen Price Benson ’79 presents the Eileen Ferrick Whiteside ’45 Award to Elizabeth Hasson ’18.

Robert McNeil, the late chairman of McNeil Laboratories, funded a graduation award to be given to the “Best All-Around Senior” in memory of his family friend.

Anya Camille Seehusahai Seton Hall University

Kendall Elizabeth Seifert

University of California, Davis

Alyssa Joy Slovensky

University of Connecticut

Alexandra Emily Small Purdue University

Athletic Awards were presented by Athletic

Director Terri Fasano (left) to Genevieve Wurtz (center left) as the 2018 Outstanding Athlete, Elizabeth Ferguson (center right) as the 2018 John F. Meehan recipient, and Bridget Casey (right) as the 2018 Scholar Athlete. The Meehan Award, presented to a graduating senior for her positive attitude, cooperation and school spirit in athletics, is funded by the Arbogast Family in honor of their father/grandfather who strongly believed in the Gwynedd traditions and enjoyed the positive impact sports played in influencing and shaping young adults.

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2018 scholarship Awards

Mrs. Trish Keen presents Maggie Fluehr ’20 with the Carolyn Keen ’10 Memorial Scholarship. President Denise Corkery Marbach ’72 (left) and Principal Mary Kirby (right) are also pictured. This two-year scholarship is awarded to a rising junior who has a love of Gwynedd, is involved in Gwynedd clubs and activities, demonstrates leadership qualities, and is overall hardworking.

Science Faculty Member Joanne Saunders (center right) presents the Anna B. Darocha Memorial Scholarship for Biology to Jessica Lelli ’20. Jessica’s parents, Robert and Victoria, are also pictured. The scholarship in memory of Mrs. Saunder’s mother is awarded to a rising junior who has demonstrated a proficiency in applying concepts, developed detailed and insightful observations, and has displayed a Christian attitude among her peers and faculty.

Dr. Patrick and Mrs. Marlene Castellano (left and right) presented the Dr. Audrey D. Castellano ’77 Memorial Scholarship to Megan Panacek ’21. Megan’s parents, Susan and Jim, are also pictured. The scholarship is named in loving memory of the Castellano’s daughter to a rising sophomore who is committed to the study of biology, chemistry or math.

Math Department Chair Mrs. Susan Mitchell (right) presents the Drs. William and Yvonne Brendley Alchemists Scholarship to Kimberly Motz ’19 pictured with her mother Lisa. The scholarship is awarded to a rising junior or senior with the highest general average based on academic performance, proficiency in applying concepts, detailed and insightful observations, and who demonstrates the Charism of Mercy.

Christopher Haley (right) and Kathleen Haley Hunsicker ’81 (third from left) present the Mary Ann Harron Haley ’50 Music Scholarship to Chloe Thum ’20.

Chloe’s parents, Bill and Christine, (left) and Music Department Chair Dr. Kathy Myers (second from right) are also pictured. The scholarship is awarded by the Haley Family in memory of their mother Mary Ann to a rising senior, junior or sophomore who is studying voice and who has consistently participated in chorale, glee club and/or liturgical music groups.

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A student in Mrs. Mitchell’s Honors Biology class was honored by the Pennsylvania Society for Biomedical Research for her essay regarding the importance of biomedical research and its impact on her life.

Sophomore Emily Cerula won the Grand Essayist for her very personal essay on “Peripheral Neuropathy.”

MEET OUR PRESIDENT

by Zoe Rogers ’19 When I met Mrs. Marbach for the first time, I didn’t know what to expect. Who is she? How much is she going to change my school? The first question was simple to answer once I met with her and got to see something evident to nearly all who meet her—she is a true Gwynedd Girl.

Zoe Rogers is a member of the class of 2019 who joined the Gwynedd family from Penndale Middle School.

Zoe is a strong student who has excelled in various honor classes and is an active member of Gwynedd’s Diversity club.

Zoe has served as president of the Diversity Club for the past two years, and has helped bring speakers to Gwynedd as well as attended diversity conferences with her classmates. She is also an avid field hockey player as Gwynedd’s varsity goal keeper. Zoe is committed to attend and play field hockey for the prestigious UC Berkeley, a D1 program in sunny California.

Seeing Mrs. Marbach become the first president of our school, it made me realize that being a Gwynedd girl never really leaves you. It was a part of her even after she graduated, attended St. Francis College in New York, and went on to accept a position with PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC). Over years that followed, Mrs. Marbach climbed the ranks, and eventually was named the first female partner in the Philadelphia region of PwC. Proudly, Mrs. Marbach attributes part of her success to all she learned while at Gwynedd, both academically as well as experientially, noting that following Gwynedd, “The one thing that I had all of the time was confidence.”

The topic of my second question, change, is not one that may bring everyone great comfort.

It’s something that Mrs. Marbach became adept with navigating during her time at PwC, as she helped lead an initiative that resulted in the growth of PwC partners being comprised of 20% women.

Call it change or progress, both are inevitable. Before Mrs. Marbach had even stepped through the door as the first president of Gwynedd, change had already begun with the adoption of the new school leadership model.

I am excited to share that this year we have seen Mrs. Marbach lead our school community in a positive, encouraging manner. While returning to Gwynedd in such a role was not something she had planned on, Mrs. Marbach shared it was something she felt compelled to do.

I, personally, am glad and proud that our leader is an authentic Gwynedd Girl.

Denise with her daughters Elizabeth Marbach Bielen ’09 (center) and Michelle Marbach Yost ’05 (right)

Did you know?

Mrs. Marbach participated in four sports while at Gwynedd. Can you guess which sports they were?

Answer: Basketball, Field Hockey, Swimming, Volleyball

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Mrs. Marbach is a lifelong Gwynedd girl whose love of Mercy is just as strong as when she walked the red and gold corridors as a student. Her love of Gwynedd began as she and her twin sister, Denise and Michele Corkery as they were known, were Gwynedd girls of the Class of 1972. Years later, she proudly watched her two daughters graduate from Gwynedd with just as much appreciation for the school as on her graduation, and subsequently joined the Board of Trustees, and most recently served as Board Chair.

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Mercy Fest

Saturday, September 22, 2018 Larry Wilson Track and New Multi-Sport Field Complex Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School

EVERYONE — students, alumnae, parents, faculty, staff, family and friends — is invited to come together for Gwynedd’s Mercy Fest.

Free Food Trucks!

CK5K 5K Run/1M Walk

Fun for All and All for Fun!

ENJOY PHILLY’S BEST

Undrgrnd Donuts, The Tot Cart, and Frozen Island Smoothies and Ice Cream

TEN YEARS RUNNING The Carolyn Keen ’10 Memorial 5K Run/1M Walk (CK5K) honors the memory of a Gwynedd student who ran as a member of the Cross Country and Track Teams. Proceeds support a scholarship fund in Carolyn’s name at Gwynedd. New chip timing will provide instant results. Runners and walkers of all levels and ages are welcome.*

Field Hockey

d Cheer on the Gwyned e on tak y the as s rch na Mo our on rs ide the Radnor Ra ld. fie f new tur

SCHEDULE 7:30 AM CK5K Check-In begins 9:00 AM CK5K Run and Walk begin

Athletic Enhancements Phase One Celebration Thanks to donor support, Gwynedd recently completed a $2 million project to enhance athletic offerings for all students. The project features a new multi-sport, synthetic turf field, expanded track and field areas, and an enhanced natural grass field.

9:30 AM Food Trucks open 10:00 AM CK5K Awards & Athletic Enhancements Project Donor Recognition Ceremony 11:00 AM Varsity Field Hockey Game begins 11:30 AM Food Trucks close & Concessions open for Varsity and JV Games

Questions?

Call 215-646-8815 x326 Email cfrascatore@gmahs.org

* Registration ONLY required for the CK5K at www.racemenu.com/CK5K: $25 if you register by Sept. 9, includes CK5K T-Shirt; $30 after Sept. 9 through Race Day, CK5K T-Shirt given while supplies last.

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Introducing

The Catherine Learning Program A few years ago, our Board of Trustees encouraged us to start an initiative for our girls who have learning differences.

Throughout this year, school administration visited and interviewed other schools regarding their learning initiatives and reached out to experts in this field. We are pleased to announce that effective Fall 2018, we will have a dedicated learning center and faculty for Gwynedd’s new and important learning program.

This specialized program addresses a range of student needs, and is named for our Mercy foundress, Catherine McAuley. The Catherine Learning Program incorporates key ingredients to assist a student Learning specialists in reaching her full potential.

The students will have a provide individualized strategies for academic scheduled period each day when they will develop success. Emphasis is individualized strategies for placed on raising each academic success.

Gwynedd has a long student’s skill level by tradition of educating and focusing on problemguiding young women of solving, organization, diverse backgrounds in a self-advocacy,and challenging and nurturing environment. The Catherine study habits.

Learning Program continues Catherine McAuley’s legacy of touching the minds and hearts of students by providing adaptive study strategies, and an understanding of academic strengths and weaknesses to increase the student’s sense of self-worth.

Thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor, a newly renovated space now serves as the home of The Catherine Learning Program. We appreciate all students at Gwynedd, and as Catherine McAuley did, believe in the intellectual potential of each of them.

Meet Founding Program Director, Dr. Debra Chiaradonna, M.A., Ph.D. Dr. Debra Chiaradonna — an esteemed educator, author, presenter, panelist and advocate for children with learning differences — is the Founding Director of The Catherine Learning Program. Driven by a determination to give youth a voice, Dr. Chiaradonna has dedicated her career to working with and educating children with specialized learning needs, building awareness of exceptionalities and learning differences.

For more than 20 years, Dr. Chiaradonna worked with the Lower Merion School District as a director and an educator for Emotional Support and Special Education programs, developing and implementing programs and self-contained classrooms for multiple middle schools and high schools.

For the past five years, Dr. Chiaradonna has served as Chair of Chestnut Hill College’s Education Department while also in private practice as an education consultant and advocate.

Her practice provided services identifying barriers to academic achievement and social development for adolescents and young adults; specializing in working with individuals having learning differences and Attention Deficit Disorder. This involves collaboration with clients’ private therapists, advocates, and school districts as well as with parents to encourage implementing at-home strategies for working with their child.

As an educator, parent, advocate, and role model Dr. Chiaradonna embodies our belief that “Empowered Women Empower Women.”

Additional program details can be found on our website at: gmahs.org/Catherine

Please join us in welcoming “Mercy” to the Gwynedd Family! Mercy, an Australian Shepherd and Beagle mix, joins Dr. Debra Chiaradonna in The Catherine Learning Program Center.

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ARE YOU USING THE POWER OF THE

Gwynedd Alumnae Network?

Philadelphia is the largest city in the Commonwealth and the sixth largest in the country (according to the U.S. Census Bureau). But it’s unique with its small hometown vibe and sense of community that you just don’t feel in New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston (and now Phoenix who just bumped Philly out of the Top Five last year).

Contributor KATE TOOLAN MADDEN ‘97 is the president of Fresh Start Careers, a regional, women-owned staffing agency that she co-founded with fellow Gwynedd girl Carrie Fontaine Davis ‘97. The partners also recently launched a new platform, JerseySummerJobs.com, the only online job board for seasonal staffing solutions along the Jersey Shore. She is the Networking Chair of the Gwynedd Alumnae Board. Kate loves all things related to career development, career coaching, and of course networking, as awkward as it is!

When she’s not (net)working, Kate enjoys adventures with her party of five (husband and three young kids), binge watching Netflix shows set in the 80s, or planning her next entrepreneurial venture!

Connect with Kate on LinkedIn, her second home, at www.linkedin.com/in/freshstartresumesllc/

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There are deep roots in the Philadelphia region and it gets granular … right down to the zip code and even neighborhood. When you add in the Catholic school affiliation and what high school you attended … BOOM … instant camaraderie.

The “Six Degrees of Separation” game becomes much easier to play!

One of the first questions I’m asked when meeting someone new is, “What parish did you grow up in?”

It is usually followed by a chuckle and animated discussion about elementary school CYO rivalries from years ago. The occasional “transplant” will observe this jovial conversation quizzically while my new acquaintance and I try to explain our instant big city–small world connection. Then, the conversation inevitable turns to what high school you attended!

>> THE POWER OF NETWORK This basic scenario plays out again and again in social situations across the country. As a small business owner, I attend plenty of business events. My livelihood is grounded in relationships; and networking is the lifeline.

Networking is defined by Merriam-Webster as “the exchange of information or services among individuals, groups, or institutions specifically for the cultivation of productive relationships for employment or business.” Not bad, but there is so much more to it.

It’s not simply an exchange of information. Networking is ALL about relationships—establishing new ones and fostering existing ones. The misconception is that it’s a self-centered, self-serving practice, “What can someone do for me?” But in reality, it’s quite the opposite. It should be focused on the value that YOU bring to your connections that strengthens YOUR relationships. It’s actually altruistic and authentic in nature … very similar to the principles of our Spirit of Mercy!

Relationships are marathons, not sprints! Nurture them.

>> FOR THE JOBSEEKER A common phrase in the career coaching world is “Your network is your net worth!” Don’t underestimate the power of your network’s network either. Your neighbor’s aunt or best friend’s cousin may be the missing link to landing a new job or new client. You’ll never know unless you network!

Did you know that 80% of the job market is hidden and the only way to find these jobs is through good, old-fashioned networking? Did you also know that only two to four percent of jobseekers secure a job using online job boards, but the majority of people spend most of their time on these platforms? There is quite a discrepancy between these statistics that represents an excellent opportunity for the savvy sleuth.

“DO YOUR RESEARCH AND PREPARE. When you reach out to develop a connection, first ask yourself a few key questions.

1. What do I want out of this meeting? What would be the best possible outcome?

2. What role does this person play in making a decision regarding what I want?

3. What is my value added to this person/ business?

4. What don’t I know about this person/ business?

5. What are three questions I have about this person/business?

Thinking through these questions prior to the encounter will help you stay focused, engaged and efficient, something your new connection will deeply appreciate.”

— Maureen Grogan Colburn ‘93

It’s tempting (and comfortable) to sit at home on your computer and blindly apply to every Indeed job posting within 50 miles. But that isn’t going to give you the best return on investment. Not only are you wasting your time, but you are clogging up the inboxes of the hiring team who then sift through a deluge of applications. So get out there and mingle!

>> FOR THE BUSINESS OWNER

MORE THAN 500 EMPLOYEES

According to the Small Business Administration, there are approximately 30 million small businesses (500 or less employees) that employ 47.8% of US workers. ALL have a major impact on the economy through job creation and innovation.

Business owners wear many hats. Networking can help you grow your business, expand your customer base, and generate new referrals.

>> FOR THE ESTABLISHED PROFESSIONAL Networking applies to you too! Here’s your opportunity to mentor, share lessons learned, and #LeanIn. Who better to help navigate this winding and uncertain career path than a fellow Gwynedd Girl?

100 TO 499

20 TO 99

In Pennsylvania, small businesses employ 2.5 million people (46.8% of the private workforce)

FEWER THAN 20

Source: PA Employment by Business Size , US Small Business Administration, 2014

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>> LINKEDIN Social media has elevated the concept of networking to an entirely new level. Now you can supplement traditional face-to-face conversations with your online presence across a variety of platforms.

“BELIEVE THAT YOU ARE ENOUGH. Many people are not successful at networking because they believe they aren’t as successful as everyone else in the room or they aren’t good enough. Everyone in the room started somewhere and remember you ARE good enough and belong there.”

— Dera Lee ‘97

“LISTEN! Resist the urge to talk about yourself right away.

Instead, spend a few minutes listening and then repeat back a key learning that shows you were paying attention. Think less about what you can get from the people you are meeting, and more about what you can do to help them.”

— Giulia Umile ‘98

LinkedIn is THE place to be for professional mingling. It’s the largest professional network, whose mission is “to connect the world’s professionals to make them more productive and successful”— a critical tool to build networks, connect with new people/thought leaders, and boost your online presence!

500+ MILLION USERS WORLDWIDE

2 NEW USERS JOIN EVERY SECOND

106 MILLION

VISITS EACH MONTH

4 MILLION

COMPANY PROFILE PAGES ON LINKEDIN

#1 SOCIAL NETWORK >> 30-DAY LINKEDIN CHALLENGE NEW YEAR. NEW GOALS. MAKE IT HAPPEN. In January, we launched the 30-Day LinkedIn Challenge via our private Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School Alumnae Group (www.linkedin.com/groups/4195645). The weekly posts included small tasks or quick action items that members could do on their own schedule to help them feel more comfortable using the platform—to search for a new job, grow their business, or expand their online professional network.

We added more than 100 new alumnae members just during this time and established many new relationships in the process. I personally connected with an alumna who now lives in UAE—literally halfway around the world—to discuss the unique challenges of “trailing spouses” and international stay-at-home moms looking to return to the workforce!

Join our group! www.linkedin.com/groups/4195645

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FOR PROFESSIONALS

Not only are people you know already on the site, but so are people you SHOULD get to know — new clients, future co-workers.

With so many members, the rate at which your network can expand on LinkedIn is exponential.

LinkedIn allows you to leverage the power of your network — the people you know, and the people that THOSE people know — to help you connect to decision makers. Executives from all Fortune 500 companies are on LinkedIn. This platform allows you to increase visibility, enhance credibility, and promote your brand (professional and personal) in unprecedented ways.

>> WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR GWYNEDD GIRLS? As an alumna of Gwynedd Mercy Academy, you are automatically part of an exclusive network that can provide direct access (and instantaneous, familial connection) to thousands of other women with shared experiences and the same core Mercy values.

We are EVERYWHERE. In every industry, geographic location, life stage, etc. Our roots are deep in the local community, but our branches touch every corner of the world. We want you to join us – strengthen and expand our Monarch network and help your own professional development and personal growth.

How can you get involved? Come to events, follow us on social media, speak to our current students, volunteer for Career Day, join the Alumnae Board.

Reconnect by starting with the Alumnae Office!

TIPS FOR NETWORKING < IN PERSON >

“Find a mentor. I repeat...FIND A MENTOR. Someone that can tell you when you’re making the right move. Someone who won’t put up with your whining. Someone who knows when to give tough love or a hug. Someone that can act as a friend and confidant, and will give you honest and tough feedback on your career decisions. Keep in touch with them and be available to reciprocate when someday another person comes to YOU for advice. “

— Rachael Kennedy ‘07

• Dress appropriately for the occasion.

• Be approachable with a welcoming smile and good posture.

• Make eye contact and have a firm handshake.

• Repeat the person’s name a few times during the conversation to help you remember.

• Have a positive attitude. Keep the conversation light and short.

• Bring plenty of business cards and make a point to exchange them with your new connections.

• Follow up with a short email and/or personalized LinkedIn request within 24 to 48 hours.

• Focus on quality, not quantity. You don’t need to connect with everyone in the room.

TIPS FOR NETWORKING < ONLINE >

< ALUMNAE > Would you like to share your career experience with current students?

Contact Director of Alumnae Engagement Karen Price Benson ’79 at 215-646-8815 x328 or kbenson@gmahs.org

• Update your profile.

• Connect with others—reach out to your network.

• Create valuable content to stay engaged.

• Participate in groups (wink, wink: “Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School Alumnae”).

• Endorse and recommend others.

• Keep your other profiles clean—Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, etc.

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SPOTLIGHT ON

Vincent Dolan

Linda Galante

Brian Hannan

Vincent T. Dolan is a licensed CPA and

a successful senior executive with strong financial and operations credentials in a variety of industries. He was a CPA with Coopers and Lybrand for more than 10 years, and after leaving public accounting, has been a CFO in public, private, venture-backed technology and manufacturing companies. Most recently, he was the Finance Director for a private, nonprofit high school.

Graduating cum laude from Saint Joseph’s University with a bachelor’s degree in accounting, Vince has been a member of Saint Joseph’s University National Alumni Board since 2015.

He is very familiar with Mercy Education. His wife, Suzanne McGeever Dolan is a Gwynedd alumna from the class of 1963. His three daughters are also graduates from Gwynedd. Megan ’89 is currently Assistant Director of Admissions at Merion Mercy Academy and raising her four children in Broomall.

Mauri ’91 is raising her four children in Lansdale and Melissa ’92 is living in Blue Bell and also has four children including triplets.

Vince joined the Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School’s Board of Trustees this year and serves on the Finance Committee.

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THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Sr. Virginia Hasson

Sr. Honora Nicholson

Linda Ann Galante, Esq. ‘72, P ‘08, is not only a proud alumna but also the daughter, sister, cousin and mother of Gwynedd alumnae. Linda is a recently retired partner of the Philadelphia law firm of Stradley Ronon, where she was a recognized leader throughout her almost 40-year career.

A very active community member, Linda was Chair of the Board of Directors of Drueding Center, a nonprofit that provides transitional housing and comprehensive support services to women and their children and was the recipient of its Person of the Year Award.

She was also honored by the Drueding Center with the naming of the “Galante Career Development Center” and given a lifetime achievement award in 2014.

Linda currently serves as Chair of the Drueding Center Advisory Council, as well as Advisory Council Member of M&T Bank, Board Member of Title Alliance LTD, Trustee and Chair of the Executive Compensation Committee of Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, and Real Estate Advisory Council Member of the Sisters of St. Basil the Great. She has also served as Director of Fiber-Line, Inc. and Wissahickon Spring Water, Inc., and as trustee of St. Joseph’s Preparatory School, Gwynedd Mercy University and the Preservation Alliance for Greater Philadelphia, and as co-director of the Philadelphia Forum of Golden Seeds, an angel investment group dedicated to investing in early-stage companies founded and/or led by women. Linda is the recipient of a number of awards including the Helena Devereux Women in Leadership Award and the Margaret Beirn Barger ’35 Distinguished Alumna Award.

Karen Sullivan

Sr. Mary Trainer

Linda and her husband, John J. Colussi, live in Ambler and are the proud parents of John Peter Colussi (St. Joseph’s Prep ’05) and Gwynedd alumna Laura Ann Colussi ’08 Brian Hannan is a partner with PwC’s Assurance services based in the Philadelphia office. He is the market team leader for the firm’s insurance and banking practice in Philadelphia. He has 30 years of experience in the insurance industry.

Brian has assisted several companies in IPOs and SEC and regulatory matters. He also assisted clients in assessing internal control structures in connection with SOX registration. His experience ranges across a broad spectrum of insurance operations including global primary and excess and surplus line insurers, global broker market reinsurers, global health and life, financial guarantee and mortgage insurance. Brian has also served as lead engagement partner on numerous global insurance enterprises serving North America, Europe and Asia.

Brian received a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Notre Dame. Brian is a licensed CPA and serves on BLOCS (Business Leadership Organized for Catholic Schools) and was previously the Chair of the Board of Directors of the Southeastern Pennsylvania March of Dimes.

Brian joined the Gwynedd Board this year and will serve on both the Advancement and Finance Committees.

Sister Virginia Hasson, R.S.M. joined the Sisters of Mercy in 1955. She is a grant writer for the Mid-Atlantic Community of Sisters of Mercy and a mathematics GED tutor at Mercy Neighborhood Ministries in Philadelphia.

Her extensive career includes teaching in elementary and special education schools in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. At Gwynedd Mercy University, Sister Virginia was an Associate Professor of Education, Chair of Undergraduate and Graduate Education and Director of Testing.

At Georgian Court College, she was a Professor of Education and Interim Dean of Graduate School. She served as Vice-President of the Merion Regional Community.

Sister’s impressive global ministry includes serving with Jesuit Refugee Service as Education Coordinator in camps for Cambodian and Vietnamese refugees on Thai-Cambodian Border as well as camps for Sudanese refugees in Northern Uganda. She served as Programs Officer for six countries in Southern Africa and as a consultant on assessment, planning and training in the JRS International Office.

Sister received her doctorate in educational administration from Fordham University and has been a member of the boards of Mercy Catholic Medical Center, Mercy Health System, Project HOME, Walsingham Academy, Conference for Mercy Higher Education and Gwynedd Mercy University.

She is returning to the Gwynedd Board where she had previously served for five years. She will be a member of the Mission and Governance Committee.

Sister Honora M. Nicholson, R.S.M.

has been a Sister of Mercy for more than 50 years. While her primary ministry has been as an educator in elementary, secondary and higher education, she has also ministered as a pastoral assistant at St. Francis Xavier Parish in Manhattan and a Spiritual Director at the School of Applied Theology in Berkeley, CA. Sister also served as a member of the Merion Community Leadership Team and the Sisters of Mercy, Mid-Atlantic Community Leadership Team.

Currently, Sister is a Pastoral Consultant for RENEW International which works to revitalize parishes in the United States and beyond.

Sister’s educational background includes a master’s degree in theological studies from the University of Dayton, and is certified in spiritual direction and also holds certificates in Canon Law for Religious Institutes, Sacred Scripture, and Theological Studies.

Sister Honora has served on various boards including, Mercy Health System, Cranaleith Spiritual Center, Waldron Mercy Academy, and HOPE Partnership for Education. She has also held memberships in the Leadership Conference of Women Religious (LCWR), the Leadership Conference of the Institute of the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas, the National Religious Formation Conference, and Spiritual Directors International.

She joins the Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School Board this year and will serve on the Student Life and Academics Committee.

Dr. Karen Sullivan, M.D. is an Internist affiliated with Abington HospitalJefferson Health and Chestnut Hill Hospital. She received her medical degree from the Medical College of Pennsylvania and has practiced medicine for more than 25 years.

She was named a Top Doctor of 2017

by Philadelphia Magazine.

Dr. Sullivan is an active volunteer.

She was a member of St. Alphonsus Parish Home and School Association and the Parish Finance Council. She served on the Our Lady of Mercy Regional School Advisory Board.

She was a member of the Workforce Investment Board of Montgomery County.

Dr. Sullivan and her husband Tom reside in Maple Glen and are the parents of alumnae Courtney ’13, a graduate of Ursinus College, and Emily ’15, who currently attends Susquehanna University.

Sister Mary Trainer, R.S.M. ’57

entered the Sisters of Mercy in 1957. She has an extensive educational background.

Her resume includes teacher, guidance counselor and Human Relations Coordinator at West Catholic Girls Secondary School. She served in the Mission and Sponsorship office of Eastern Mercy Health System and as the Director of Leadership Development at Catholic Health East. Sr. Mary initiated, as well as directed, the reconstruction of the original House of Mercy and established the Mercy International Center in Dublin, Ireland.

She received her doctorate in social psychology from Boston University in 1980 and a certificate in spiritual direction from Shalem Institute in 1996.

Sr. Mary served on the Board of Directors of Mercy Catholic Medical Center, Mercy Health Corporation, Gwynedd Mercy University and St. Joseph’s Health System (Atlanta, GA). She also served as a Leadership Consultant/Facilitator for Religious Orders of Women in the USA. Although Sr. Mary is semi-retired, she continues to offer leadership retreats focused on the charism of Mercy and engages in the ministry of spiritual direction at Cranaleith Spiritual Center.

Sr. Mary joined the Board in 2017 and is a member of the Student Life and Academic Committee.

Catherine McAuley had a dream “We have the privilege of knowing it, We have the responsibility to understand it, We have the duty to protect it and We have the honor of living it.”

—Maria McGuiness

Honoring the

Sisters of Mercy who have served at Gwynedd Mercy Academy and carried forth the dream of Catherine McAuley

Sisters of Mercy Serving at GMA, 1952 – 2018

During last fall’s installation of the School’s first president and first lay principal, the names of the Sisters of Mercy who have carried forth the dream of Catherine McAuley at Gwynedd Mercy Academy were inscribed on scrolls and placed on the altar during the Mass and installation ceremony. The scrolls now reside in a place of honor within Gwynedd’s Chapel.

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Mother Mary Bernard Sister Ann O’Connell Sister Anne Mary Sister Antoinette Medori Sister Antoinette Zimmerman Sister Barbara Buckley Sister Berenice Marie Sister Bernadette Duross Sister Carol Larkin Sister Carol Tropiano Sister Catherine Coleman Sister Catherine Laboure Sister Charles Marie Sister Charlotte Stanley Sister Denise Colgan Sister Diane McCormick Sister Dorothy Marie Sister Dorothy Zeiser Sister Elaine Williams Sister Eleanor Collins Sister Elizabeth Carroll Sister Elizabeth Marie Sister Elizabeth Scanlon Sister Ethel Sweeney Sister Fran Regan Sister Frances Haddow Sister Gail DeMacedo Sister Gertrude Bonner Sister Grace Marie Sister Jane Collins Sister Jean Marie Sister Jean Streibig Sister Jeannette Goglia

Sister Joan Buckley Sister Joan Gibbons Sister Joanne McDermott Sister Josephine Hynes Sister Kathleen Boyce Sister Kathleen Fox Sister Laetitia Marie Sister Lois McDonough Sister Mary Borromeo Sister Mary Flavia Sister Mary Joanna Sister Mary Julianna Sister Mary Kathleen Sister Mary Leonard Sister Madeleine Marie Sister Margaret Donohue Sister Margaret Mahoney Sister Margaret Taylor Sister Marguerite Pessagno Sister Maria DiBello Sister Maria Gratia Sister Maria Marta Sister Maria Trinitas Sister Marianna Walsh Sister Marianne Hieb Sister Marie Ann Ellmer Sister Marie Clarisse Sister Marie Consuelo Sister Marie Denise Sister Marie Florine Sister Marie Helene Sister Marie Julie Sister Marie Kathleen

Sister Marie Noel Sister Martha Stoudt Sister Mary Alice Sister Mary Antonita Sister Mary Berenice Sister Mary Beth Beretta Sister Mary Cecilia Sister Mary Christine Sister Mary Cleophas Sister Mary Colman Sister Mary Delaney Sister Mary Dolores Sister Mary Edward Sister Mary Emmanuel Sister Mary Florita Sister Mary Gregory Sister Mary Hasson Sister Mary Immaculata Sister Mary Immaculate Sister Mary Jane Stapleton Sister Mary Jean Ritti Sister Mary Joan Sister Mary John Aloyse Sister Mary Lou McFadden Sister Mary Mark Sister Mary Mulholland Sister Mary O’Connell

Sister Mary O’Loughlin Sister Mary Sarah Sister Mary Silverius Sister Mary Virginia Sister Maureen Sister Maureen Christi Sister Patricia Anne Sister Patricia Donlin Sister Patricia Flynn Sister Patricia Mulderick Sister Patricia Roux Sister Rita Powell Sister Rosalie Ferrari Sister Rosemary Powers Sister Ruth Hennessy Sister Sally Condart Sister Sheila Harron Sister Stella Marie Sister Susan Myslinski Sister Susan Walsh Sister Suzanne Marie Sister Suzanne Thompson Sister Therese Marie Sister Thomas Marie Sister Victoria Crescente Sister Virginia Marie

THE NEW CREW

Leading the Monarch Crew team is the Executive Head Crew Coach Bill Ernst. Currently, Mr. Ernst serves as the Assistant Varsity Coach for the LaSalle College High School Crew team. He looks forward to building a strong, leading program here at Gwynedd, along with additional coaching staff to be named and introduced in coming weeks.

Gwynedd has purchased a total of five boats to launch the program in bold Monarch fashion. As you may have seen on the Crew page of our website, Mr. Ernst has identified fall regattas in which the team may potentially compete. View the full schedule at gmahs.org/crew.

Please join us in extending a warm Mercy welcome to Mr. Ernst. His sister is Gwynedd Alumna Christine Ernst Ball ‘79. We are very pleased to bring Crew to the young women of Gwynedd for the first time in its 162 year history. We look forward to the abundant experiences and opportunities this great sport will bring our girls.

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GLOBAL GWYNEDD

MERCY TRAVELS

The students, faculty and staff #MakeMercyReal each and every day in the communities locally, regionally and internationally. Profiled are a few of their travels from the past year.

Haiti Service Trip, Spring 2018

Puerto Rico, Hurricane aid, Spring Break 2018

Ireland, Young Mercy Leaders Pilgrimage and Conference, Summer 2017

STUDENT REFLECTIONS FROM HAITI Over Easter break, for the third consecutive year, Gwynedd students journeyed to Gros Morne, Haiti to work with the “Mercy Focus on Haiti” organization to provide aid and service to the impoverished of the region. Here are a sampling of their reflections: DAY 3: My dad once told me something he thought of after seeing the mountains in Virginia: “How could someone not believe in God?” Here in Haiti the mountains go on forever, creating an endless range of green and brown. During our hike this morning I was able to physically make my way closer to God and take in His creation. Once at the top, we all took a couple minutes of silence to really enjoy the peacefulness and beauty of the view. It was amazing to see how all of us as a group could come together and experience something so serene.

Even though I noticed Mercy during Easter mass in Creole and playing soccer with the locals, I was overwhelmed with Mercy as I gazed over the mountains thinking to myself, “How could anyone not believe in God?”

— Stephanie Ierardi ’19

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DAY 4: Today, we learned just how powerful and resilient women are, and how words are not always needed to convey feelings. The main focus was to visit the women who are part of the Cheyen Lavi Miyo program, a project that helped women to become empowered as they begin to climb up the different levels of poverty.

We traveled a bumpy road outside the city to meet some of the women in the group and to hear their stories. These women were halfway through their 18-month program. The first woman we met was named Angelina, and her smile was incredibly bright as she explained to us that the program changed her. Previously she has been ignored in her community, but with the guidance of the program, she no longer felt useless. Though we had to use a translator to understand each other, the smile on her face conveyed just how powerful and confident she had become in just nine months. We all felt the power of her words and were humbled to learn about how happy she was to have her status begin to advance.

When we asked the larger group of women about their Easter, all of them responded with beaming smiles, explaining that because of Jesus everything was good. The unfailing faith of these women was beyond inspiring. Their gratitude to God was visible and exemplified that faith has no language. God is present everywhere, beyond the language barrier. Haiti has changed our

lives forever and will continue to remind us that nothing God has given us should be taken for granted, no matter what.

— Emma Palermo ’18 and Sarah McLaughlin ’19 DAY 6: Yesterday, we visited Lekol Jezi Mari School and talked to four women in the Fanmlbo Women’s group. These women showed us their devotion and hard work ethic by sharing the history of their embroidery business. Three women started this organization by dedicating four years of their lives to learn the craft and took this skill to share with the 11 other women in the group. For 20 years, they have been working tirelessly making embroidered designs. These are the women who made the embroidered mercy shields that were sold last December at Gwynedd. This day, we gifted these ladies a framed poem written by Emily Dorr ’18 and last years’ Gwynedd girls that captured their story. They thanked us with loving hugs to show their heartfelt appreciation.

We found that these women live their lives guided by Mercy. The countless hours they devoted to making the shields for us demonstrates their love and selflessness.

After telling us about their works, they disclosed that one of their older members had passed away the previous night. Even in their time of suffering, these women still had the heart to take time out of their day for us. This truly shows the compassionate and welcoming nature of the Haitian people.

— Abigail Roberts ’19 and Gabrielle Saxon ’18 DAY 7: As Gwynedd Girls, we have learned that Mercy serves as a foundation of all relationships among the members of the Gwynedd community. What we realized today, however, is that this Mercy connection extends far beyond just Gwynedd Valley. We had the opportunity to meet students from Mercy Beyond Borders, a Mercy High School based in Gros Morne, Haiti. Immediately upon meeting them, we felt drawn to one another in a way that is truly indescribable. Although we didn’t speak the same language, we were able to bond and enjoy one another’s company. As we danced, laughed, and sang, it was as if no language barrier existed. Mercy brought us together, more than any language ever could. As Sister Dale of Mercy Focus on Haiti later noted, we have Catherine McCauley to thank for this worldwide mercy connection.

— Elizabeth Hasson ’18 and Elyse Landry ’19

We realized today that the Mercy connection extends far beyond Gwynedd Valley. Haiti has changed our lives forever and will continue to remind us that nothing God has given us should be taken for granted.

MERCY COMES TO CAMPUS Six rising senior leaders attended the annual Mercy Leadership Conference again this past June at Gwynedd Mercy University. For more than thirty years, this conference has drawn Mercy high school students from across the country and now Ireland. One full day is devoted to an explanation of leadership styles and student sharing of successful event activities that furthered Mercy in their neighborhoods. The second work day, Sister Deirdre Mullan, R.S.M. presented the annual Mercy Girl Effect’s challenge for the coming year. Gwynedd girls have committed to raising funds to build a small medical surgical clinic in Haiti which will benefit medical personnel who volunteer their services with Global Health Ministry. Every challenge is intended to connect Mercy girls in this country with Sisters of Mercy working in developing nations throughout the world.

Top row left to right: Stephanie Ierardi ’18, Allison Pollick ’18, Morgan Zipfel ’18. Bottom row left to right: Sophia Kelly ’18, Katherine Martone ’18, Bridget Day ’18, Sister Deirdre Mullan, R.S.M.

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GWYNEDD CULTIVATES LEADERS Beyond the Classroom In Dublin, Ireland in 1827, a devout Catholic woman named Catherine McAuley decided to build a home where she would educate and give shelter to poor girls. The first Mercy house opened on Baggot Street on September 24 of that year. Catherine eventually took religious vows and began a religious congregation called the Sisters of Mercy which centered on their mission of direct service to the poor. They began to build more homes in order to provide women and children the tools to break the cycle of poverty. Catherine McAuley’s legacy continued to grow after her death and today the Sisters of Mercy have ministries and schools all over the world.

Catherine McAuley envisioned the education of women as a means to spread Christian values and effect social change.

Inspired by her vision, the Sisters of Mercy established a Catholic, independent, college-preparatory, secondary school for young women in 1861 known today as Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School.

Over the summer of 2017, ten Gwynedd students journeyed to Dublin, Ireland for the Young Mercy Leaders Pilgrimage, in the spirit of experiential learning with fellow students from secondary Mercy schools around the world.

In Dublin, the very city where Catherine was born and raised, Gwynedd Alumna Lizzy McGuire ’12 arranged a personal tour of the Trinity College of Dublin, where Can a leader be she currently works. The “Old Library” located on campus holds the both gentle amazing Book of Kells, an illuminated and strong? manuscript Gospel book in Latin, containing the four Gospels of the Can a woman New Testament. be both kind The conference was held at Mercy and bold? The International Centre on Baggot Street, and the keynote speech was answer is yes given in the International Room, as evidenced the original space where Catherine in the life McAuley taught nearly 200 children in the first year of opening the and works first school. of Catherine “Can a leader be both gentle and McAuley. strong? Can a woman be both kind and bold? The answer is yes as evidenced in the life and works of Catherine herself, the true embodiment of a mercy leader. We are called to show leadership through kindness and compassion for the marginalized. We must not forget that this God sent to us Jesus, a baby born in a stable.

This in itself is proof that great leaders come from the most peaceful, compassionate of hearts. Mercy leadership turns this power into love,” reflected a Gwynedd student on her experience.

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A Senior’s SERVICE JOURNEY to PUERTO RICO Over Spring Break, I travelled to San, Juan, Puerto Rico to provide aid for people affected by Hurricane Maria and Hurricane Irma. For 10 days the peaceful neighborhood of Commandante became my home. There, I lived with three nuns: Sister Margarita, Sister Lourdes, and Sister Rose.

The majority of the service I took part in during my trip involved distributing supplies to families whose lives have been affected by the hurricane, visiting a local school and speaking with students, and tutoring children in English. Speaking to members of communities where I was delivering supplies was, by far, the most insightful part of my trip. I was aware that there were many areas still without electricity and homes that were destroyed that have not been rebuilt, but I was unaware of some of the day-to-day losses. The effects that remain most prominent on the island are very small when standing alone but when those small effects are combined the magnitude of the problem is devastating.

Many people lost jobs because of the hurricanes, sale taxes went up (11.5%), food items have to be imported because of lost crops, staples such as eggs are $7 a dozen, medications are scarce, communities dependent on the social structures of a Anya experienced life in Puerto Rico living with Sister church were affected when the church Margarita, Sister Lourdes, and Sister Rose (pictured above). was destroyed, and the suicide rate has increased especially among the elderly.

Students my age shared with me how depressed many young people became immediately after the hurricanes when there was absolutely no electricity. Unable to contact their friends and family electronically, they struggled not knowing whether their loved ones were alive. They could not watch television or listen to music and were unable to attend school and see friends.

The people in Puerto Rico were very open with how their life has changed because of the damage caused

by Hurricane Irma and Maria. I remember feeling powerless walking into an old man’s bedroom covered by a foam roof as he laid in bed paralyzed with flies swarming around him and lizards crawling on the wall.

Since transferring to Gwynedd in my junior year, I have become influenced by the global perspective the school strives to instill in all of its students through the school’s curriculum.

Most importantly, I have become empowered by the excitement my classmates share for the opportunities the world has to offer, especially through my social studies classes.

A Mercy education teaches students to use the information they are learning inside the classroom and apply it towards building a stronger community. My trip to Puerto Rico was an informative and humbling experience. I learned that it is very easy to lose the comforts that I take for granted and be forced to go without. I saw that as a world, we are dependent on each other in more ways than we are often aware and there is a tremendous need to look for solutions instead of building walls to isolate ourselves. The values Gwynedd instilled in me will help me to go forward in life looking for long term solutions to current problems.

Anya Seehusahai ‘18 is passionate about service. She has visited Antigua and Guatemala on service trips, and she spent a year providing ESL classes to a Congolese refugee family through Gwynedd’s Ministry and Service. Anya received acceptances to six colleges and chose to attend Seton Hall University where she is double majoring in International Relations and Diplomacy and Modern Languages, with a focus on Spanish and Arabic, as well as a minor in Economics.

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#GreatGwyneddAlumnaeInstagrams Are you regularly checking Instagram? Love all those postings of your friends’ puppies and babies? Checking the hottest fashion trends? Getting inspired by healthy meals? Looking for travel and restaurant tips?

Recent trends suggest that more consumers are buying goods and services based on what they see in their Instagram feed. Instagram has become a marketing wonderland. On any given day, users harness the platform’s Here are four viral capabilities to sell or endorse products or just use it as a Gwynedd Girls creative outlet. using the power of Instagram for business, wellness and fun!

@bmw_wellnessride

Bridget Welz ’08 has been using Instagram for her Health and Wellness posting for more than three years. She was recently named one of “20 Healthy Philly Instagram Accounts You Should Follow Right Now” by Philadelphia Magazine’s online BeWellPhilly.com.

“Health and Fitness have always been a passion of mine ever since my days at GMA. While I was in college studying exercise science/sports management, my passion grew even deeper specifically focusing on how healthy eating and fitness effect not only your physical wellness, but also your mental health. Instagram was a way for me to stay in touch with clients outside the gym by highlighting exercises, meal prep ideas, and inspiration to keep going!

As I continue to explore my own wellness journey, I now use the platform to highlight that journey which is ‘real world health, fitness, and wellness.’ ”

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@jerseyshoreicecream

Mary Kate Catalino ’12 considers herself an ice cream connoisseur and her more than 11,000 followers would agree. Mary Kate has been traveling up and down the Jersey shoreline showcasing her greatest frosty treat finds and incorporating them with bright colors and eye appealing backgrounds to create irresistible social media postings.

“For as long as I can remember I have loved ice cream and the Jersey Shore! When I graduated college and began a full-time job with L’Oreal, I thought this would be a great creative outlet. What better hobby to have then trying all the ice cream up and down the Jersey Shore. I enjoy using the images to transport followers to their favorite beach town on a warm summer day. As the account has grown over the last year, ice cream shops and businesses have reached out to me to feature their different products which means a lot of ice cream on the house!”

@swagfoodphilly

Four years ago (right out of high school), Gianna Leflar ’14 and friend Megan Dugery (MSJ ’14) were inspired by waffles and ice cream and their love of posting photos of food to co-found what is now one of the most popular food Instagram accounts in the Philadelphia area.

“My friend Megan and I had always posted food on our personal Instagram accounts, and decided we should make a food Instagram account. Our first post was a photo of waffles and ice cream. We joked if we would ever hit 1,000 followers, and now we have almost 85,000! I am so grateful for all the experiences that have come my way because of this. We were able to eat for free all through college and have recently started to monetize. We have been featured

by Cosmopolitan magazine as one of the top 15 food Instagram accounts in the United States. We were also honored as the best food Instagram in Pennsylvania

by Spoon University and were featured in Philly Style Magazine and Philadelphia Magazine. Because of my success, I have now become a social media consultant for restaurants, brands and start-ups in the area.”

@thesevenguide

Brea Mealey ’09 capitalized on a love and familiarity of Avalon and Stone Harbor, or as locals call “Seven Mile Island,” with an Instagram account that guides locals and visitors on where to eat, drink, stay and play at the popular beach resort.

“My passion for Avalon and Stone Harbor, coupled with my business and social media backgrounds, led to me recognize an opportunity in the online space here on Seven Mile Island. There was a need for a central hub that offered both timely and innovative information to inspire people when planning their summer adventures. I also love to include insider tips and suggestions for how to make the most of a stay for my followers. And, I have even created a bespoke ice cream flavor for the iconic Springer’s Homemade Ice Cream, combining two of my favorite things: cake from Maryanne’s Pastry Shoppe and homemade ice cream from Springer’s. It’s a dream come true. You can order it on summer vacation if you’d like, just ask for Brea’s Birthday Cake!”

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Gwynedd Mercy Academy

High School

27th ANNUAL

GOLF CLASSIC and RECEPTION

BLUE BELL COUNTRY CLUB • MONDAY, OCTOBER 8 Hosted by Hansen Properties & Kate Lutz Hansen ’89 and Bud Hansen P ’19, ’19, ’19

“We’re Teeing Up Fore Our Girls!”

1800 Tournament Drive, Blue Bell, PA 11:30 AM Registration and Lunch 12:30 PM Shotgun Start (Scramble Format) 5:30 PM

Open Bar Reception Non-Golfers Welcome!

Proceeds provide immediate support for academic programs and initiatives that directly benefit current and future students.

Questions? Contact Mimi Craig at mcraig@gmahs.org or 215-646-8815 x352

GOLF • LUNCH • PRIZES • OPEN BAR RECEPTION Easy online registration at www.gmahs.org/golf • Discounted Rates for Alumnae 24

THERE IS SO MUCH

HAPPENING @ GMA AND SOCIAL MEDIA IS THE PLACE TO DISCOVER IT!

A morning tea of alumnae, daughters and granddaughters in celebration of Sisters of Mercy Foundress Catherine McAuley and Mercy Day.

Annie O’Dare ‘19 and Coach Heather Norman place Annie’s new school record time of 1:02.14 in the 100 Breaststroke, achieved at PIAA 2A 2018 State Championship Meet. Way to go Annie! #Mercyrulesthepool

The Lady Monarchs of Speech and Debate took flight to Atlanta, Georgia to compete in The Barkley Forum Invitational of Emory University. Maggie Fleuhr ‘20, Sarah McLaughlin ‘19, and Julia Kreutzer ‘18

CSI Day with members of the Montgomery County Detectives Unit, Upper Dublin Police Department, Abington Police Department, and Lower Gwynedd Police Department

Social media keeps us connected! Please join us ... /GMAHighSchool

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ACHIEVEMENTS • ALUMNAE • ATHLETICS • SERVICE • ARTS • ACADEMICS • HONORS • EVENTS

Three Gwynedd musicians were chosen for the 2018 All-Catholic Orchestra.

Congratulations to Paige Merlino ‘18 (trumpet, 1st chair), Chloe Thum ‘20 (violin), and Natalie Dolan’19 (violin) on their achievement and phenomenal performances!

We celebrate award-winning Monarch, Kylie Saloma ‘18, whose synchronized skating team won the Silver Medal in the World Figure Skating Championship in Croatia and is now headed to Junior Worlds.

We couldn’t agree more with Mrs. Conaway who shared, “We are so blessed at Gwynedd to have so many talented young ladies!”

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As a member of The Forum of Executive Women (FOEW), President Denise Marbach ‘72 joined dozens of women from around the state in the State Capitol Rotunda in Harrisburg on March 27 to show support for the passage of Senate Resolution 255, which was sponsored by Senator Judith L. Schwank (D-Berks). The resolution urges privately held and publicly traded companies and nonprofit institutions doing business in Pennsylvania to have a minimum of 30 percent women directors by December 31, 2020 and measure their progress toward equal representation of men and women in leadership positions on an annual basis.

The Executive Women’s Council of Pittsburgh (EWC) was instrumental in bringing Senate Resolution 255 to the forefront. The resolution is modeled after PA House Resolution 273, which was introduced by Alumna and State Rep. Kate Harper ‘74 (R-Montgomery) with support of The Forum of Executive Women, the region’s premier women’s organization, actively working to increase the number of women in leadership roles, expand their impact and influence and position them to drive positive change in the Greater Philadelphia region.

Pictured (L to R) Christine Koebley, President of EWC, Senator Judith L. Schwank, Denise Corkery Marbach ‘72; Gwen Pechan, Executive Women on Boards Committee Chair; Elva Bankins Baxter, FOEW member in the State Capitol Rotunda in Harrisburg

Gwynedd students organized a school-wide Peace Walk entitled, “We Walk With...” in solidarity with the victims of the Parkland, FL shooting and for peace across our country and throughout the world. The morning began with a student-led prayer service, proceeded with the walk for peace throughout the red and gold corridors and concluded with a final prayer as the school community formed a circle of Mercy in the Performing Arts Center.

www.gmahs.org

/gmahs1861

Alumna Marisa DeCandido ’09 was part of the NBC26 Green Bay news team honored with a prestigious Chicago/Midwest Regional Emmy award for the Best Evening Newscast at the 59th annual Chicago/ Midwest Emmy Awards in Chicago.

ACHIEVEMENTS • ALUMNAE • ATHLETICS • SERVICE • ARTS • ACADEMICS • HONORS • EVENTS

Senior Captain, Lizzy Ferguson scored her 100th career lacrosse goal at Gwynedd while helping her team defeat Sacred Heart, 21-11. Pictured are fellow Senior Captains: Paige Angelus, Elizabeth, Kendall Seifert and Courtney Narkoff Senior Kendall Seifert #14 scored her 200th career goal. Kendall becomes only the 2nd Gwynedd Lacrosse player to reach this accomplished milestone, joining Bergan Foley ‘07 in the “200 Club!” Celebrating the occasion are Madeline Mele ’20, Kendall, Hailey Morris ‘21, Hailey Morris ’21, Sophia Giovannone, Caitlyn O’Malley ’21, and Nikkole Van Camp ‘21 Mighty Monarchs…

In recognition of National Catholic Sisters Week, which is held during National Women’s History Month, a week-long celebration honored the nation’s 45,605 religious women and the sisters before them who founded schools and hospitals.

These sisters serve as missionaries, contemplatives, activists, and spiritual leaders. The Sisters of Mercy shared a series of videos, which included a Facebook Live streaming with Gwynedd’s own Theology faculty member, Sister Patricia Donlin, RSM, who answered questions about vocation and consecrated life.

As the world mourned the passing of former First Lady, Barbara Bush, a number of Alumnae recalled her visit to the red and gold corridors, along with members of her family, in 1992 as Gwynedd was named a Blue Ribbon School.

Fondly, one Alumna shares, “In 1993, this great lady came to my high school along with Laura Bush and one of her daughters. The Glee Club sang “You Are My Only One,” to which she replied, “George Bush, YOU are MY only one.” As a Sophomore in high school, I didn’t understand the gravity of that comment...as a wife and mother, I totally get it. What an amazing lady; amazing couple.”

(Photo credit: Meredith Terpeluk Schoeller ‘94) Another Alumna reminisces, “Barbara Bush deeply inspired me when I was in grade school when I read this speech of hers [The commencement address at the all-women Wellesley College in Wellesley, Massachusetts, on June 1, 1990.The speech was ranked No. 47 on a list of the top speeches of the century in 1999.] ... so much so that I choose it to be my speech on the forensics team. I memorized every word and won quite a few awards in competitions reciting it with passion and conviction, but I was most proud of passing on her sweet sentiments. I still to this day love every bit of it.”

We were honored to host her and we are thankful for her inspiration.

/gwynedd-mercy-academy-high-school

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ACHIEVEMENTS • ALUMNAE • ATHLETICS • SERVICE • ARTS • ACADEMICS • HONORS • EVENTS

Addie Olsen ‘18 presented a Senior Cello Recital to conclude her independent music study. Addie performed solo and ensemble works from contrasting historical periods. The program included Johann Sebastian Bach’s 3rd Suite in C major, two movements from Edward Elgar’s Cello Concerto in E minor, the David Popper Requiem for 3 cellos and piano (Op.66), and Franz Schubert’s Trout Quintet in A major, along with talented young musician friends from the Philadelphia area. Congratulations to Addie, who will continue her music studies at The Peabody Institute of The Johns Hopkins University.

The 2018 Student-Faculty basketball game.

Despite the faculty having the basket-sinking Sr. Patty on their team (and having requested that results be recorded as a “mercy win”) the scoreboard showed that the students were the victors!

Gwynedd proudly recognizes the great achievement of two Gwynedd faculty members, Mrs. Karalyn McGrorty Derstine, Ed.D. ‘01 (at left with her husband, daughter, and son) and Mrs. Kylie Steiert, M.S. Dr. Derstine’s degree is an Ed.D. in Education Leadership, and Mrs. Steiert earned a Masters of Education in Curriculum and Instruction.

Three Gwynedd seniors were honored at the Archdiocesan Academic Convocation, representing the top 3% of the Senior class. Pictured left to right: Ms. Kirby, Principal; Maura Toner ‘18; Emma Palermo ’18; Elizabeth Hasson ‘18, Mrs. Marbach ‘72, President; Kylie Purcaro ‘18; and Ms. Casavecchia, Dean of Academics.

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/GMAHighSchool

ACHIEVEMENTS • ALUMNAE • ATHLETICS • SERVICE • ARTS • ACADEMICS • HONORS • EVENTS

Christopher Powell, the father of Fiona Powell ‘18, joined Sir Robert Swan and his son, Barney, on a three-week expedition to the South Pole. The expedition team was known as “2041.” Together, they are working to protect the Antarctic and unite those who seek to protect our world and create a sustainable, clean energy future.

With the help of Fiona, an AP Environmental Science (APES) student, Mrs. Saunders’ APES class was able to blog with the team and ask questions related to their studies. Members of the expedition group sent answers to the questions from the South Pole to the class. This allowed students to actually hear firsthand accounts of the impacts of global climate change, and learn how important it is to develop stewardship of protecting our natural resources.

Mrs. Eileen Carty’s AP Comparative Government & Politics class travelled to the National Constitution Center where they took part in a customized workshop put together by the NCC. They worked in conjunction with the members of an AP Comparative class from Xavier High School in NYC. Using an app designed by the NCC called ‘The Interactive Constitution,’ they compared the constitutions of the core countries (United Kingdom, Russia, Mexico, Iran, & Nigeria) to the United States Constitution. They also viewed a showing of Freedom Rising, ate lunch at Reading Terminal, and showed our NYC visitors the Liberty Bell.

Thank you to Alumna Allison Picco ‘96, MS, CAADC, CCDPD of Recovery Centers of America Devon and to Officer Beth Sanborn of Lower Gwynedd Township Police Department for a pre-Prom assembly to speak with students about healthy, prudent decision making and shared risks and consequences associated with alternate choices.

Students from Mrs. Elaine Bradley’s classes visited SEI Investments in Oaks, PA. Through interactions with their employees they learned about the company and careers at SEI while experiencing first hand their unique culture and open office environment. The girls had lunch and discussions with six SEI executives, which included Gwynedd Alumnae. Most of the day’s activity was held in SEI’s IdeaFarm, a refurbished farmhouse now used as a collaborative workspace. At the end of the day, the students viewed the West Family’s extensive and valuable art collection. The program was organized by Alumna Colleen Stack Stratton ’86, mother to Ryan ‘19 and Erin ’21.

www.gmahs.org

/gmahs1861

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ACHIEVEMENTS • ALUMNAE • ATHLETICS • SERVICE • ARTS • ACADEMICS • HONORS • EVENTS

The Gwynedd Chorale performed the national anthem to open a home game for the Philadelphia Phillies! Check out Gwynedd’s YouTube channel for the full performance.

Junior Ann Sinclair’s hard work paid off at the Montgomery County Science Research Competition. She placed third in the Earth and Space category and received a special award from the Association of Women Geoscientists. Ann’s determination also earned her a spot at the next level of competition.

The Language faculty were pleased to induct 13 students into Congratulations to Gwynedd Basketball, the District 1 Champions! the French Honor Society and the Spanish Honor Society. To be eligible, the girls had to have an honors average in the study of Spanish for three years, or a 93 average for two years in French. Congratulations to Lucy Glover ‘18, Kelsey Van Thuyne ‘19, Julianna Persia ‘20, Kathryn Tereshko ‘20, and Erin Stratton ‘21 for being admitted to the French Honor Society and Victoria Campell ‘20, Kiera Thomas ‘20, Lily Panunto ‘20, Caitlin Fitzpatrick ‘19, Christina Ludwig ‘19, Amy Casas ‘19, Sarah McLaughlin ‘18, Isabella Petrone ‘19, and Michaela Guerin ‘19 for being admitted to the Spanish Honor Society.

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Save-the-Date FRIDAY, MARCH 1, 2019 7 - 11 PM Alumnae, Parents, Faculty, Staff and Friends Invited

$10,000

RAFFLE

Congrats to our 2018 Raffle Winners: Amy Farragut Tyrrell ’91, P’22 and Ryan Tyrrell P’22

ENTER AND RECEIVE FREE MIXER ADMISSION. Need not be present to win!

www.gmahs.org/raffle

MERCY MIXER 2.0 The grown up version of a high school mixer

Raffle Drawing Two Bands Open Bar Great Food Silent Auction

Proceeds from the Raffle and Mixer provide immediate support for academic programs and initiatives that directly benefit current and future students.

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Annual Gathering of Alumnae

60th Reunion: Class of 1958 H

Young Alumnae: Class of 2013

REUNION

The stellar 2018 event on Saturday, April 14, began with a liturgy celebrated by Fr. Jeffrey Rott in the Performing Arts Center. The newly-named winners of the Trocaire Leadership Awards, the new inductees into the Gwynedd Athletic Hall of Fame and the 2018 Margaret Beirn Barger ’35 Distinguished Alumna Award recipient were all honored during a ceremony following the Mass. The evening was capped off with cocktails and light fare for all attendees. Members of reunion classes had the opportunity to gather with their classmates to celebrate their milestone year and together reminisce throughout the red and gold corridors of Gwynedd.

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It’s your Reunion Year!

Classes of 1944, 1949, 1954, 1959, 1964, 1969, 1974, 1979, 1984, 1989, 1994, 1999, 2004, 2009 and 2014 Save the date of

25th Reunion: Class of 1983

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Saturday, October 26, 2019 (YES, October 2019!) for a celebration with your class.

We have totally reformatted the reunion event to be a fall mix and mingle social occasion. Cocktails, light fare and tours of the school are planned.

50th Reunion: Class of 1968 32

If you are interested in helping with the Reunion Committee, please contact Director of Alumnae Engagement Karen Price Benson ’79 at kbenson@gmahs.org or call 215-646-8815 x328.

CLASSES and SALUTING OUR STARS Margaret Beirn Barger ’35 Distinguished Alumna Award } SERVICE TO THE SCHOOL } This annual award is named for Margaret Beirn Barger, a 1935 graduate of the Academy of the Sisters of Mercy, who had a lifelong dedication to the Alumnae Association. Margaret served as the backbone of the organization for more than 50 years. For 19 years, this award was given to graduates who represented commitment to the works of Mercy. As the Alumnae Award program grows, this recognition now will specifically focus on alumnae who epitomize the qualities of loyalty, service, dedication and devotion to the school, all demonstrated by Margaret Beirn Barger ’35.

Cory Clark Shay ’95

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As both a student and alumna, Cory Clark Shay has demonstrated the same qualities of loyalty, service, dedication and devotion to Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School shown by Margaret Beirn Barger ’35. As a student, Cory was very active in the musicals, one-act plays, glee club, chorale, and community service, and devoted countless hours as a member and president of the Forensics Team, now known as Speech and Debate. After her graduation in 1995, Cory went on to study theater at Muhlenberg College.

In 2001, as a dedicated Speech and Debate alumna who understood firsthand the immense value of the program, Cory returned to her alma mater to “assist” with the team, and quickly stepped into a leadership role. For the last 17 years, she has served as head coach or

co-head coach of the team. During her tenure, Gwynedd has become known both regionally and nationally for its incredibly competitive and successful Speech and Debate program.

With Cory’s leadership, Gwynedd has had more than 75 qualifiers to the National Catholic Finals, including 14 National Catholic Top 20 awardees, and more than 25 qualifiers to the NSDA National Finals, the Tournament of Champions, and the NIETOC Championship, including five National Top 20 awardees. Cory has coached three State Champions as well as dozens of State Finalists and Semifinalists. Her students have been named champions and finalists at some of the largest, most prestigious invitational tournaments such as Harvard, Yale, Penn, George Mason and Villiger.

In 2014, the National Speech and Debate Association named Cory a Diamond Coach, and she received an award at last year’s National Finals for her service to the Valley Forge District. Just this year, Cory was elected to the Pennsylvania High School Speech League (PHSSL) Hall of Fame. She is a tournament official at the NSDA National Finals, NCFL National Finals, and the PHSSL State Finals. Cory has served the Philadelphia Catholic Forensics League in numerous capacities from secretary to vice president.

“The unique leadership and sacrifice she has displayed during her career as forensics coach are incredibly rare and surely irreplaceable,” wrote a Gwynedd Alumna and former team member, noting that over the years, Cory has balanced a growing family with the demands of regular evening practices and a rigorous competition travel schedule that includes many weekends away from home. “She was my coach, mentor, weekend mom, therapist, life coach, and friend. She has not only brought this school national recognition, but also forever touched the lives of her students who were shaped by Gwynedd Speech and Debate.”

Cory currently resides in Princeton, NJ with her husband Ray and their five children, Georgia (13), Bronwyn (11), Declan (5), Killian (3), and Cormac (1).

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Award Recipient Cory with past and current speech and debate students.

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Angela Amarhanov

Lisa Heilbronn

Sr. Rosemary Herron

Sr. Susan Walsh

Catherine Wilson

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Trocaire Leadership Awards } SERVICE TO THE WORLD } Trocaire is the Gaelic word for compassion or mercy.

The Trocaire Leaders embody the success and spirit of a Gwynedd education. They inspire and motivate others, exhibit outstanding leadership in their professional lives and throughout the community, and are committed to personal growth, social responsibility and global awareness. During the 150th Anniversary Celebration, eight women from various fields were honored with Trocaire Leadership Awards. This year, we honored women from four of these fields.

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Angela Amarhanov ’08 2018 Trocaire Award Recipient Philanthropy/Nonprofit Angela Amarhanov is a 2012 graduate of Loyola University Maryland.

For the last six years, she has been working at the Travis Manion Foundation in Doylestown. She started in an administrative role, continued to grow professionally in the Development and Special Events departments, and now serves as the Annual Fund Coordinator. Travis Manion Foundation is a character organization that empowers veterans and families of the fallen to develop virtues in future generations. Angela has found the mission, along with 1st Lt. Travis Manion, USMC’s words, “If Not Me, Then Who…,” to be inspiring and a guiding Angela celebrates with her Aunt Mary Moran. principle on how to live life.

Through Angela’s time at Loyola University Maryland, she pursued an academic career in English and Writing. Additionally, Angela dedicated her time to community service with at-risk youth in Baltimore, welcoming new students as an orientation leader and growing her connection between faith and service. As a recognized student leader, Angela was asked to serve as the young alumni representative on Loyola’s Board of Trustees upon graduation. This appointment gave Angela an opportunity for unique professional growth and cultivated a deeper understanding of philanthropy and the value of education.

Angela currently resides in Doylestown. She enjoys keeping up with her best friends from her GMA homeroom, spending time at the shore devouring a good book, and running. In addition to volunteering for the Travis Manion Foundation, Angela enjoys supporting Kevin From Heaven (Keep the Phaith).

Lisa Heilbronn, Ph.D. ’72

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2018 Trocaire Leadership Award Government/Legal

Sr. Rosemary Herron, R.S.M. 2018 Trocaire Leadership Award Religion/Vocation/Volunteer (Religious)

Lisa Miriam Heilbronn entered the Foreign Service in 1993.

Sister Rosemary Herron was appointed Principal of Mercy She has served as a public diplomacy officer in Uganda (twice), Vocational High School in Philadelphia in 1997. In 2007, she South Africa, Ethiopia, Namibia, Moldova and Kuwait. She became the school’s first President. also served as the Officer in Charge of the U.S. Information Under her leadership, several programs were added to the Office in Cluj-Napoca, Romania, the sole United States curriculum, athletics became more competitive, and advancement representative in Transylvania. and marketing programs were expanded.

As the Director of Alumni Affairs for the State Through collaboration with scores of benefactors and quality Department’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural co-op employers, Sister Rosemary has Affairs between 2010 and 2012, she supervised advanced the unique mission of programs for the more than one million alumni of Mercy. She has helped forge State Department exchanges, and created the Alumni partnerships with Universities and Engagement Innovation Fund. She supervised organizations which have enriched the training for cultural attachés as an instructor and quality of education through artistic, course coordinator at the National Foreign Affairs athletic and environmental Training Center. experiences for Mercy students.

She is currently Arabian Peninsula desk officer for In 2016, Mercy’s name changed to public diplomacy in the Arabian Gulf. Lisa holds a Mercy Career and Technical High master’s and doctorate in sociology from the School to more clearly promote its University of California, Berkeley. Her research focus unique mission as the only Catholic, on cultural studies and mass media has continued to co-educational career and technical be useful in her diplomatic career. secondary school in the United States.

She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Within a 21st century environment, sociology (honors) and psychology from Trinity Mercy provides a comprehensive, College in Hartford, Connecticut, in 1976. Prior academic and technical experience to joining the Foreign Service, she taught which prepares students for the communications at Dennison University and workforce and/or post-secondary sociology at St. Lawrence University. education. In the Mercy tradition, Lisa currently lives in Silver Spring, Maryland, and faculty and students alike live the Sister Rosemary Herron (left) and Sister Susan Walsh also owns property in Cape Town, South Africa.

Gospel in word and action, and promote service to others.

During Easter breaks for 13 years, Mercy faculty and student volunteers have brought their skills in the Building Trades and Technology to the survivors of Hurricane Katrina in the Gulf region, Hurricane Sandy along the New Jersey coast, and Hurricane Matthew in North Carolina.

Sister currently serves on the Advisory Boards of St. Malachy School (North Philadelphia) and Cardinal Foley School (Havertown). She is a Trustee of Gwynedd Mercy University.

In 2017 she received the Molyneux-Lilly Award from St. Joseph’s University for her contribution to “innovative and transformational education for the greater service of God.” H Lisa’s 1972 classmates gather to celebrate her much-deserved award.

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Sr. Susan Walsh, R.S.M.

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Catherine Wilson, Ph.D. ’90

2018 Trocaire Leadership Award Religion/Vocation/Volunteer (Religious)

2018 Trocaire Award Recipient Education

Sister Susan Walsh, R.S.M. is a lifelong educator who considers her five years at Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School a true blessing. Her connection to Gwynedd’s Circle of Mercy links the elementary, high school and college (university) as board member, teacher and learner.

Sister Susan has brought her passion for teaching and love for children of all ages to schools in New Jersey, Florida and Pennsylvania: to schools with affluent well-prepared students; to schools with large immigrant populations, and to urban schools with all their challenges, especially St. Malachy School and Mercy Career and Technical High School, where she has spent the bulk of her ministerial life. She has served in both primary and secondary schools as a teacher and as an administrator. She has coached teams and moderated sports clubs and parent clubs. To each of these tasks she has brought her enthusiasm, love of fun, quick wit and clever mind.

One key to Sister Susan’s impact on others is that she herself is a lifelong student. She loves learning and loves sharing her learning with both students and fellow teachers.

She is an enthusiastic supporter and mentor of young teachers. Her current long-term ministry as Principal of Mercy Career and Technical High School is more than a fulltime job, but she still has found the time to share her skills with other schools as a member of the Gwynedd Mercy Academy Elementary Board of Trustees and of the St. Malachy School Education Committee.

Sister Susan is currently a Neubauer Senior Fellow in the Philadelphia Academy of School Leaders. Along with Sister Rosemary, Sister Susan received the Molyneux-Lilly Award from St. Joseph University. She was also inducted into Archbishop Wood’s Hall of Fame for her contribution to education.

Catherine Wilson is Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Public Administration at Villanova University, where she has taught undergraduate and graduate classes since 2005. Catherine received a bachelor’s in philosophy from Villanova University in 1994, a master’s in Latin American studies from the Edmund J. Walsh School of Foreign Service at Georgetown University in 1997, and a doctorate in political science from the University of Pennsylvania in 2003.

Her fields of study include nonprofit management, immigrant integration and cultural competency. Catherine is interested in the role that community and grassroots organizations play in delivering services to minority communities — ethnic, racial, and cultural minorities as well as immigrants — in the United States. She is the author of the book, The Politics of Latino Faith: Religion, Identity, and Urban Community (NYU Press, 2008), which was the first systematic treatment of Latino faith-based organizations in the United States.

Catherine is former Chair (2015-17) of the Community and Grassroots Associations Section for the Association of Nonprofit Organizations and Voluntary Action (ARNOVA), an international organization dedicated to research on nonprofit organizations and civil society. She is a member of the Strategic Planning Committee for Catholic Social Services in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, and is a Nonresident Senior Fellow at the Program for Research on Religion and Urban Civil Society (PRRUCS) at the University of Pennsylvania.

Catherine enjoys the reception with friends.

Sr. Susan Walsh and her table of supporters.

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Are you the girl...?

Athletic Hall of Fame Award To preserve and honor Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School’s successful athletic history, the Alumnae Association along with the Athletic Department honors outstanding athletes, teams and coaches. The Athletic Hall of Fame is designed to maintain memories and inspire young women to compete with perseverance and the utmost Mercy Spirit. This Hall of Fame includes all those previously recognized on the 150th Anniversary Wall of Fame unveiled in September 2010.

The 1995 Volleyball Team The Gwynedd Volleyball Team began in 1994 as a club team. In 1995, the team entered the Bicentennial League. Thanks to the talent, hard work and perseverance of the players and the leadership of Coach Bill Tierney, the team went on to an 8-0 undefeated Bicentennial League Championship. Their overall record was 14-3 with wins over Merion Mercy Academy and Mount St. Joseph Academy. Many of the team members played Division I level volleyball.

Kelly Tierney was named the MVP of the league, and Lori Beth Ryan garnered first-team All-Bicentennial League honors.

Team members Back row (left to right): Lori Beth Ryan Coxey ’97, Lauren Murphy Vanin ’98, Kate Cameron Corson ’99, Coach Bill Tierney; middle row: Kathy Monaghan ’97, Christine Fontaine Krempasky ’98; front row: Christine Lopez ’97, Mary Beth Kohlhepp Roche ’96, Kelly Tierney Kane ’96, Kate Gontarek Timer ’97.

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Coach Bill Tierney, Kelly Tierney Kane ’96 and Christine Fontaine Krempasky ’98 accept the athletic award from President Denise Corkery Marbach ’72, Athletic Director Terri Fasano and Alumnae Board Member Lisa Tierney ’04.

Are you the girl who organizes the gettogethers, stays in touch with everyone and has “friended” nearly the entire class on Facebook? Or, maybe you have just stayed close to a few fellow graduates throughout the years. Whether you fall on one end of the spectrum or the other—or somewhere in between— please consider becoming a Class Agent.

Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School Alumnae are known for sustaining deep and lasting friendships that began during their four years at the school. The Class Agent’s role is fairly simple but extremely important to strengthening this bond and maintaining the vitality of the Gwynedd Alumnae Association. It’s also a wonderful way to get back in touch with your classmates and your Alma Mater.

As a Class Agent, you will work with other agents from your class to contact your classmates informally (by phone, email, mail or social media) a few times a year about upcoming Alumnae events, fundraising or volunteering opportunities and other school-related activities.

Interested? If so, please contact Director of Alumnae Engagement Karen Price Benson ’79 at kbenson@gmahs.org or 215-646-8815 x328.

We hope you’ll join us!

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FOCUS ON ALUMNAE

WE’D LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU!

NEWS AND NOTES Barbara Smith Krause ’57 and her husband Frank celebrated their 54th wedding anniversary in October 2017. In May 2018, she attended the 100-year anniversary of the old Misericordia Hospital School of Nursing, now Mercy Philadelphia Hospital. Barbara and 15 of her classmates from 1960 shared good fun and wonderful memories.

Shirley Yelito Williams ’69 was recently living and overseeing projects on her brother’s farm in Springville, Indiana. She continues her extensive travel to visit friends and research materials in New Zealand and Australia for her continuing children’s book series, “Come Walk with Me,” for ages 8 to 12. All of her current books have received awards and recognition and can be found on her website at www.comewalkwithmeseries.com.

Kathleen Kirk Bellwoar ’81 was named a Woman to Watch 2017 by

PhillyBiz.net. Kathy is president and founder of PPT Consulting and is also the chair of the Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School Board of Trustees. Kathy has managed numerous strategic technology projects for more than 20 years from software selection to implementation, and from establishing IT strategy to optimizing business processes. Her key to project success has always been to ensure the critical components of people, process and technology are addressed in the delivery of all solutions. “Today there are at least more work-friendly programs allowing for flexibility and supporting women in the workplace. Sadly though, very little has changed with regard to the numbers of women holding top executive level and board positions. Honestly most of the time I think of myself as just ‘in business’ and not as a ‘woman in business;’ not sure why it should make a difference,” remarked Kathy when receiving the recognition.

Suzie Pileggi Pawelski ‘87 recently

coauthored a book, “Happy Together: Using the Science of Positive Psychology to Build Love that Lasts” with her husband James.

Suzie is a freelance writer and well-being consultant specializing in the science of happiness and its effects on relationships and health. She has a M.S. of Applied Positive Psychology from the University of Pennsylvania. Her 2010 Scientific American Mind cover story, “The Happy Couple,” was the catalyst for this book. The book has received praise from many reviewers and other award-winning personalities including Larry King. Suzie also blogs for Psychology Today and writes the “Science of Wellbeing” column for Live Happy, where she is also a contributing editor. For details about the book, visit www.buildhappytogether.com.

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After a long career working in corporate legal positions, Melva Exner, Esq. ’77 has opened her own law practice, the Law Office of Melva M. Exner, LLC, in Fort Washington. The primary focus of the practice is on business, contracts, aviation, employment/human resources and compliance matters. In addition, for clients in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, Melva is preparing the full array of life planning documents, guardian appointments, wills, powers of attorney, and advance healthcare directives, and also handling estate administration. Melva can be reached at melva@mexnerlaw.com.

SEND US YOUR NEWS AND PHOTOS! alumnae@gmahs.org

Beatrice McCook Gaynor ’88 is an assistant professor in the School

of Nursing at the University of Delaware. She earned a B.S.N. from the University of Delaware, an M.S.N. in Family Practice from Wilmington University, and a Ph.D. in Nursing Science from the University of Delaware. Beatrice’s research examines the utilization and effect of measurements in primary care. She is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner working in the Nurse Managed Primary Care Center at the University of Delaware and the Occupational Health/Walk-In Clinic at Bayhealth Medical Center.

Lauren Morton ’04 has been named the new head coach for Boston University Lacrosse Team. Lauren was the captain of the undefeated 2004 Gwynedd Lacrosse team and was named in 2013 to GMA’s Athletic Hall of Fame.

Sarah Filippi Dooley, Esq. ’05 is an attorney with Duffy & Partners

and recently was on the team representing “Jane Doe,” a young surviving victim of a fatal food truck explosion in Philadelphia.

With the reported largest pre-verdict settlement in Pennsylvania state court history and the biggest settlement ever for a minor in state court history, the team secured “Jane Doe” $54.35 million to provide for her medical and educational needs.

Emily Fesnak ’13 was selected as a 2017 University Scholar, the highest academic honors, from Syracuse University. She graduated with a dual major in Information and Management Technology and Public Relations. Emily now lives in Phoenix, Arizona where she landed a position as a software engineer at Intel.

Five alumnae from the Class of 2014 recently graduated with high honors from The University of Scranton.

Summa Cum Laude honors were awarded to Jessica Campbell ‘14, Kylie Hartz ‘14 and Theresa Webster ‘14; Magna Cum Laude honors to Lea Zaengle ‘14, and Cum Laude honors to Claire Lacon ‘14.

Natalie Danze ’15 won at both singles and doubles tennis as Gwynedd Mercy University women’s tennis team claimed its fifth-straight Colonial States Athletic Conference (CSAC) championship with a 5-0 victory over Immaculata in April. Danze, a Griffin junior, did not drop a game in winning.

Jessica Clark ’06 is studying for a doctorate in accounting and is

working as a senior auditor at Novak Francella in Philadelphia.

Casey Zipfel ’12 graduated in 2017 from Penn State University with a degree in Biology with a concentration in Vertebrate Physiology and a minor in Health Policy and Adminstration. She is now studying in a doctorate program in Infectious Disease Dynamics at Georgetown University. She received a full scholarship with a teaching assistant position.

The Class of 1988 celebrated their 30th Reunion

Addie Flynn Hocynec ’66 is a member of a plein air painting group, Peace Valley Plein Air Painters. Every Wednesday from April to November, she joins other artists who accept the challenge of painting outdoors in the elements.

Working with oils using brush and palette knife, Addie finds nature provides an endless source for inspiration. Pictured above is Addie’s recent 11 X 14 oil painting “Bridge at Graeme Park.”

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WHAT’S NEW WITH YOU? alumnae@gmahs.org

Members of the Class of 2002 celebrate their 15th reunion.

The 2017 College-Age Christmas Breakfast and Prayer Service brought our

youngest alumnae back on the last day of school before Christmas break.

Faculty, staff and current students enjoyed having the girls back on the red and gold corridors to hear the excitement of college life.

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The Gwynedd community wishes Mrs. Edna Tull, theology faculty (left), and Mrs. Mary Maas, Spanish faculty (right), congratulations and well wishes on their retirements.

Together they have served more than 60 years at the school. We thank them for the dedicated years of service and hope to see them at alumnae events!

WEDDING BELLS Laura Stubbs ‘07 married Andrew Smyth on August 12, 2017. Pictured left to right top are Audrey Meyn Smolik ’03, Vanessa Angelo Goldman ’07, Courtney Ginty ’07, Mary Shotzbarger ’07, Julia Meyn ’07 and Claire Stubbs ’03, bottom left to right Liz Stubbs (staff), Samantha Clark ’07, Brianna Sadowl Hosford ’07, Laura, Marlee Peluso Lampert ’07 and Allie Jorgensen Mayeron ’07.

Kristin Markmann ‘03 married Carl Gravely on April 20, 2018.

Marlee Peluso ‘07 married Tony Lampert on July 30, 2016. Pictured left to right top are Julia

Meyn ’07, Vanessa Angelo Goldman ’07, Samantha Clark ’07, Mary Shotzbarger ’07, Allie Jorgensen Mayeron ’07, Courtney Ginty ’07 Brianna Sadowl Hosford ’07 and Laura Stubbs Smyth ’07, left to right bottom are Liz Stubbs (staff) and Marlee with the flower girl.

Moira McGinn ’08 married Steven Giordano on May 13, 2017 with a

reception at The Manor House at Prophecy Creek in Whitpain. Pictured left to right top row are Anne Casavecchia (staff), Sr. Maureen Christi (faculty), Karen Price Benson ’79 (staff), Patty Rosenberger (staff), Steve Fromhold (staff), Mimi Craig (staff), Debbie Giordano (former staff), Christine May Rafferty ’06, Jeannine Hartz (staff), left to right middle row are Sr. Patricia Flynn (former principal), Mary Belz (staff), Christine Burke ’07 (former staff), Christa Giordano ’14, Moira, Bridget Mahoney ’08, Molly Kristiniak Westen ’08, Judy Edling Morrissey ’79 (staff), and Kara McGrorty Derstine ’01 (faculty), left to right front row are Nicole Barry (former staff), Heather Norman (faculty) and Emily Gregor ’17.

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Elisa Fucich ’05 married Brendan Lyons on May 13, 2017. The wedding party included

classmates Caity Logan ’05 (left) and Daisy Yuhus Andeen ’05 (right).

Colleen Lutes ‘04 married John Michel on October 29, 2016 at Hotel Du Village in New

Hope. The bride’s sisters Beth Anne Lutes ’06 and Laura Lutes ’15 were co-maids of honor and friends Karen Scully ’04 and Jacqui Bonder Woodward ’04 were bridesmaids. Gwynedd girls Jen Lamsback Smith ’04, Alicia Vozzo Milillo ’04, Katie Shay Vida ’04, Lauren Morton ’04, Kelley McGrath ’04, and Monica Bradley ’12 were all in attendance to help the couple celebrate.

Kaitie Ailtmar ‘03 married Thad Kirk on June 16, 2017. Celebrating with Katie

are (pictured left to right) Shannon Mascio Hall ’05, Lauren Ailtmar Ciccarone ’01, Christine Theis Convery ’03 and Bethanne Mascio Connolly ’03.

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Katie Redmond ‘07 married Matt Oberlies on October 6, 2017 with a reception at La Massaria at Bella Vista Golf Club in Gilbertsville. Pictured left to right are Brianna Roth ’04, Meg Stanton Eisenhart ’04, Kate Mullin Logan ’07, Katie, Elisabeth Behr Drew ’02, Micki Keane ’70, Sr. Cathe Shoulberg ’65, Mary Marg Behr ’07, Danielle Mastroieni ’09, Katie Corr ’07, Anna Heleniak ’07, Meredith Behr ’13, Casey Mulhern Cumiskey ’04, and Jessica Behr ’14.

Ashley Benson ’07 married Matt Martino on September 9, 2017 with a reception

at Philander Chase Knox Estate in Valley Forge State Park. Pictured left to right bottom are Christine Burke ’07 (former staff), Kelsey Benson ’10 (Maid of Honor), Ashley, Dorie Ryan Slavin ’07, Mary Marg Behr ’07, Melissa Vivian Robbins ’05, left to right top, Jen Benton Zandier ’96 (staff), Moira McGinn Giordano ’08, Debbie Giordano (former staff), Katie McGrath Gordon ’07, Karen Price Benson ’79 (staff), Jen Lyon Ginnetti ’97, Colleen Belz Frascatore ’89 (staff) and Jeannine Hartz (staff).

Jacqui Bonder ‘04 married Matt Woodward on October 28, 2017 with a reception at the Racquet Club of Philadelphia. Pictured left to right are Jen Lamsback Smith ’04, Alicia Vazzo Millilo ’04, Colleen Lutes Michel ’04, Jacqui, Lauren Morton ’04 (Maid of Honor), Karen Scully ’04 and Katie Shay Vida ’04.

Taylor Grimaldi ’07 married Nathan Fluharty on October 8, 2016 in Cape May.

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NEW ARRIVALS! Jen Creed Rego ’94, a boy, Matteo Creed,

Brenna Donahue

Alice Galvin

born April 2017 Allyson Seiferth Proietto ’95, a boy, Lorenzo Francesco,

born December 2016

Moira Durkin Tozier ’00, a boy, James Connor,

born February 2017

Jacqueline Tronoski DeDominic ’96, a girl, Emersyn Paige,

born January 2018

Jessica DeLisi ’01, a boy, Edison Annunzio Ostrowski,

born March 2017

Cristin Brennan Donahue ’97, a girl, Brenna Mary,

born October 2017

Karalyn McGrorty Derstine ’01, a girl, Emilie Grace,

born March 2018

Meghann Pollock Frazar ‘97, a girl, Charlotte Mae,

Lauren Cassidy Galvin ’01, a girl, Alice Bloom,

born January 2018

born January 2018

Meghan Doll Brennan ’99, a boy, William “Will” Francis,

Kate Devlin Lillicrapp ’01, a boy, Colin James, born March 2017

born January 2018 Jennifer Kin Cottrell ’99, a girl, Ava Rose, born July 2017 Adrienne Adelsberger ’00, a boy, Max Ronald Driscoll,

Beth Merlini Vitucci ‘01, a girl, Anna Sandra,

born August 2017 Kate Tokarski Wills ‘01, a boy, Declan Thomas,

born February 2017

born January 2017

Karleigh Burns ’00, a boy, Colton James McAleer,

Aubrey Medwid Buch ’02, a girl, Aurora “Rory” Anne,

born February 2018

born October 2017

Julia Walsh DeOrzio ’00, a boy, Luke Walsh,

born May 2017

Lauren Palmer Cordrey ’02, a girl, Dylan Harper,

born June 2018

Erin Moore Gillin ’00, a girl, Cecelia Grace,

Mary Kate McNulty Gallo ’02, a girl, Mary Margaret “Maggie,”

born January 2018

born June 2017

Rosemary Moffitt Hess ’00, a girl, Emily Elaine,

born December 2017

Jenna Pasceri Godburn ’02, a boy, George Robert, born June 2017

Jacquelyn Arrow Munda ’00, a girl, Catherine Josephine,

Anna Skoien Lall ’02, a girl, Grace Catherine, born May 2017

born September 2017 Katrina Hartman Silveri ‘00, a boy, Wesley Robert,

born December 2017

Carmen Breen-Lopez Lewis ’02, a girl, Ripley Pacifica,

born August 2017 Caroline Lorusso Logue ’02, a boy, Rory Brian,

born August 2017 Daisy Zoller

Alisha Ferguson Wax ’02, a boy, Carson Patrick,

born January 2018 Nancy Houdek Zoller ’02, a girl, Daisy Evelyn, born May 2017 Bethanne Mascio Connolly ’03, a girl, Mary Claire,

born April 2018 Christine Theis Convery ‘03, a boy, Henry Michael,

born November 2017 Sally McKenney Quinn ‘03, a girl, Noelle Elizabeth,

born September 2017 Jenn Walheim Quinn ’03, a boy, Grady Michael,

Colin Lillicrapp

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born May 2018

Jack Yost Camilla Pergament

Josephine Givnish

Meg Kristiniak Zapata ’03, a girl, Zoey Kate,

Michele Marbach Yost ’05, a boy, Jonathan “Jack” Paul

born September 2017

Yost Jr., born May 2017

Emily Harbaugh Bowen ’04, a girl, Abigail Grace,

Colleen McNulty Benjamin ’06, a boy, James Joseph,

born June 2018

born June 2018

Casey Mulhurn Cumiskey ’04, a boy, Owen Daniel,

Caitlin Ford Braun ’06, a boy, Nolan August, born March 2017

born January 2018 Meaghan Stanton Eisenhart ’04, a girl, Margaret

“Maggie” Claire, born May 2018 Laura Grimsley Kleinman ‘04, a boy, William Grimsley,

born November 2017 Kelly Opdyke Roccasalva ’04, a girl, Caroline Grace,

born July 2016 Annemarie O’Neill Agnew ’05, a girl, Annie Rose,

born March 2017 Krissy Kelly Breslin ‘05, a boy, Eamon Joseph,

born October 2017 Maura Devlin Ciammmetti ’05, a boy, Jude Christian,

born June 2017 Cristina Brenner Cimorelli ’05, a boy, Domenic Anthony,

born February 2017 Christine Meehan Galvin ’05, a girl, Clare Caroline,

born May 2017 Hilary Flanagan Givnish ‘05, a girl, Josephine Mary,

born August 2017 Shannon Mascio Hall ‘05, a boy, Miles Andrew,

born October 2017 Caitlin Nahas Jackson ’05, a girl, Ella Charlotte,

born June 2018 Caitlin Foley Merlini ’05, a girl, Isabelle Maeve,

Maura Gillies Durante ’06, a boy, Christopher John (CJ),

born May 2017 Victoria Genuardi Edwards ’06, a boy, Owen Grayson,

born November 2017 Natalie Angelo Elliott ’06, a boy, Thomas Raymond,

born March 2017 Meg Bostwick Kennedy ’06, a boy, Jack Alan, born May 2018 Jessica Rose Ryan ’06, a boy, Michael Stewart, born July 2017 Kate Pyott Brokans ’07, a boy, Charles Joseph,

born August 2017 Jill Connicelli McDonough ’07, a boy, Joseph Brian,

born May 2017 Lex Palombit ’07, a girl, Riley Jacqueline,

born October 2017 Jennifer Barbara Swierzbinski ’07, a boy, Andrew Michael,

born June 2017 Ashley Whitney Ciammetti ’08, a girl, Elizabeth “Ellie”

Whitney, born July 2017 Laura Colussi ’08, a boy, Jackson Joseph Snyder,

born April 2017 Cristina Kramer ’08, a boy, Jacob Parker, born February 2017

Joseph Colussi

born November 2017 Chrissy Zataveski Norman ‘05, a girl, Elizabeth,

born May 2017 Courtney Hogan Penta ’05, a boy, Reilly Michael,

born December 2017 Cristy Almendrales Pergament ’05, a girl, Camila Val,

born December 2016

Charles Brokans

Colleen Burns Small ’05, a boy, Gavin Thomas,

born February 2018

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James and Thomas Raisch John Laury

Grace Keenan Raisch ’08, twin boys, James Matthew and Thomas John,

born May 2017 Juliana Bellitto Laury ’09, a boy, John Adams,

born November 2017 Rebecca Kellogg Rideao ’09, a girl, Sylvia Hélène,

born January 2018 Emily Irons Reynolds ’10, a boy, Carson Robert,

born October 2017 Megan Barber ’11, a girl, Brooklyn Grace,

born April 2017 Kelsey Steilen Alford ‘11, a boy, Nathan George,

Zachary Cymerman

born September 2017 Mrs. Amy Cymerman, faculty, a boy, Zachary Mark,

born June 2017 Carson Reynolds

The Gwynedd Mercy Academy Alumnae Board, in conjunction with the Advancement Office, plans a variety of events throughout the year to help our Alumnae connect with each other and their Alma Mater.

Alumnae Board 2017-18 Bethanne Mascio Connolly ‘03 President Karen Price Benson ‘79 Director of Alumnae Engagement Katie Ailtmar Kirk ‘03 Class Agent Chair Kate Toolan Madden ‘97 Networking Chair Lisa Tierney ‘04 Communication Chair

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Chris Ernst Ball ‘79 Maureen McGinn Dever ‘92 Melva Exner, Esq. ‘77 Mary Kate McNulty Gallo ‘02 Andrea Geppert ‘05 Jen Cervone Guarnaccia ‘93 Shannon Mascio Hall ‘05 Peg Nowak Kreutzer ‘91 Kathleen Roeder, M.D. ‘60 Jenny Prior Schlegel ‘90

Join the Board and support your Alma Mater!

The Alumnae Association is actively recruiting new Board Members. It is with greater support from our Alumnae that we build a sense of community and foster the legacy of Mercy.

For more information, please contact any Alumnae Board Member or the Director of Alumnae Engagement Karen Price Benson ’79 at kbenson@gmahs.org or call 215-646-8815 x328

Rest in Peace May God’s perpetual light shine upon the souls of these members of the Mercy Family

Alumnae Alberta McGovern Windsor ’39

Maureen Tipping Schorzman ‘54

Marie Dittmar Thomas ’41

Ginny Frank Mackin ’55

Jeanne Dieckhaus Carney ‘44

Linda Smith DeMong ’59,

Maria Lutz McHugh ’46, former faculty

sister of Sharon Smith Gardlund ’57

and mother of Katie McHugh McGreevy ’74, Mary McHugh Pichola ’75, Eileen McHugh Gray ’76, Stacy McHugh Mauer ’77, Joan McHugh Williams ’80 and Beth McHugh Hadayia ’85

Patricia Supplee King ’59

Sr. Madeleine Mary Smith ’46

Patricia McGovern Reigh ’71,

Mary Rodgers ’66 Mary Claire O’Connor McLaughlin ’71

Ellen Moran Bevenour ’48

daughter of Patsy Harkins McGovern ’47 and sister of Rose McGovern McNally ’73, Mary Liz McGovern ’75, Megan McGovern Pacifico ’80 and Tara McGovern Tomeo ’86

Catherine J. Fitzpatrick ’48

Maureen O’Malley DelConte ’72

Mary Nolan Maguire ’48

Karen Volpe ’72

Sr. Mary Jane Stapleton, R.S.M. ’46

Sr. Theresa Monaghan, R.S.M. ’49

Kathy Barnett Campbell ’78,

Sr. Elizabeth Powell, R.S.M. ’49,

sister of Mary Ellen Barnett ’67 and Susie Barnett Bushong ’69

sister of Mary Powell Grahn ’48 and Sr. Rita (Marian Rita) Powell, R.S.M. (former principal)

daughter of Bonnie Romano Kroll ’59 (dec.)

Eileen Esposito Morgan ’50

Tara D’Lutz ’88

Marilyn Gennetti Cabrera ’52,

Mary Gara Straub ’89,

sister of Elizabeth Gennetti Moran ’48 (dec.)

Margie Thim Gotshall ’53

Kelly Kroll Brown ’79,

daughter-in-law of Therese Zapf Straub ’69 and sister-in-law of Christina Straub Venezia ’93

continued on next page

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Rest in Peace, Mercy Family Members Mary Berman, mother of Barbara (Babs) Berman ‘96

Matthew Landherr, brother of Kathleen ‘08

William Boiston, brother of Patricia Boiston Stanton ’78 and uncle of Mary Stanton Miller ’02 and Meaghan Stanton

Dorothy Lange, mother-in-law of Lynn Lange (staff) and grandmother of Victoria ’17 and Elizabeth ‘19

Eisenhart ‘04

John Braca III, brother of Katie Braca Courtney ’07 and Kristin Braca ’09 and son of Gwynedd Musical Producer Mrs. Ann Marie Braca

Eileen Carlin, mother of Lori Carlin Scott ’76 and Daria Carlin Long ’78 and grandmother of Stephanie Scott Glackin ’06 and Meredith Scott ‘09

Anne Carney (former faculty) and mother of MaryPat Carney Bongiovanni ‘71

Joseph Anthony Casacio Jr., brother of Joanne Casacio Regli ‘59 Jim Connolly, husband of Monica Stefanelli Connolly ’65 (former faculty) and brother-in-law of Suzanne Stefanelli Stone ‘68 John Joseph Connor Jr., husband of Marie Hagan Connor ’57 and father of Amy Connor Martin ‘84 James F. Curran, husband of Catherine Teefy Curran ’44, brother-in-law of Marie Teefy deGrouchy ’41 (dec.), Geraldine Teefy Kenny ’41 (dec.) and Joanne Teefy Timmins ‘60 Jean Daniel, mother of Jean Flewelling Daniel ‘64 John Walker Daniels, father of Kate Daniels Imbesi ‘92 Nino C. Del Monte, grandfather of Angela Siegel Lawlor ’07, Christina Siegel ’10 and Laura Siegel ‘17 Francis Devinney, father, and Doris Devinney, mother, of Pat Devinney Komelasky ‘68

Frank DiNapoli, father of Michelle DiNapoli ‘95 Maureen G. Dunst, mother of Mary Dunst Mahaney ‘94 Albert Edling, father of Judy Edling Morrissey ’79, Cindy Edling Wood ’80 and Alison Edling Kelly ’82 and grandfather of Haley Wood ’12, Bridget Morrissey ’15 and Payton Morrissey ‘17 Melva Exner, mother of Melva Exner, Esq. ’77, Susan Exner Sobczak ’80 and Laura Exner Mallon ’83 and grandmother of Caitlyn Moynahan ‘11

Carmen G. Finore, Sr., father of Marie Finore McGibony ’61, Nicolette Miller ’63 and Alice Finore Brogan ’66 and grandfather of Chloe Finore ‘08 Alice V. Flynn, mother of Aileen Flynn Ryan ’70 and Maureen Flynn Morrell ‘73

Rachel Gernerd, sister of Meredith Gernerd Burton ‘98 Lynne Loges Hetrick, mother Pamela Lake Michener ’95 and Debbie Lake ‘97

Allen L. Kanter, father of Stefanie ‘02

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Philip Lembach, husband of Jean Hepburn Lembach ’50, father of Megan Lembach ’79, Allison Lembach Coll ’81, Suzanne ’83 and grandfather of Alexandra Coll ’09 Anne Louise Maas, mother of Mary Maas (faculty) Edward R. Manley, father of Alison ’88 and grandfather of Taylor ‘14

Louis J. McCormick Jr., father of Bethany McCormick Meyer ’92 and Erin McCormick Myers ’94 and grandfather of Cassandra McCormick ‘21 Michael Nunnari, brother of Melyssa Nunnari Bergen ‘99 and Catey Nunnari ‘09 Robert Nyzio, father of Megan Nyzio ‘94 Joseph Panunto, father of Lily ‘20 Mary Theresa Cavanagh Phipps, mother of Evelyn Phipps ‘79 and Mary Beth Phipps Mayhew ‘80 William Robert Regli, husband of Joanne Casacio Regli ’59, father of Theresa Regli Iverson ‘92 and brother of Louise Regli Matt ‘60 Sr. Mary Jean Ritti, former faculty

Mary Reimel, mother of Jennifer Reimel Kronenberg ’79 and Jessica Reimel Nichols ‘85 G. Russell Reiss, Jr., MD, father of Charlene Reiss ‘85 and father-in-law of Susan Gibbons Reiss, Esq. ‘83 Dominico Russo, husband of Kristin O’Malley Russo ’60 Kathleen Bradley Smith, sister of Pat Bradley (staff) Sr. Jean Streibig, R.S.M., former staff

Jean Tobais, mother-in-law, and Fred Tobias, father-in-law, of Kate Tobias (faculty) Paul Tucker, brother of Tiffany Gallagher Mathews ‘95 Austin (Audie) Wackerman, brother of Maria Wackerman Durkin ’73 and uncle of Moira Durkin Tozier ‘00 Joseph Waltrich, father of Patricia Waltrich Mulvihill ‘85 and Lisa Waltrich Janke ‘87 Dr. Michael Whitaker, father of Kirsten ’97 and Maureen ‘98 Albert Francis Widmann, husband of Jane Gerstemeier Widmann ‘51

Joan Zekanis, mother of Jill ’76 and Lynn ’79

We all know Gwynedd is a special place where students are empowered to become bold, competent, compassionate women. We ask all members of our community — alumnae,

parents, colleagues and friends — to consider

making a gift to The Mercy Fund as an

expression of our shared values and ongoing commitment to

the Gwynedd mission.

YOUR GENEROSITY ENSURES…

INNOVATION & TECHNOLOGY

ACADEMIC PROGRAMS

Two New STEM Centers

New Catherine Learning Program

SERVICE & SPIRITUAL LIFE

Expanded Service Opportunities

ATHLETICS

New Multi-Sport Turf Field

…AND MORE. EVERY GIFT MATTERS. 3 WAYS TO GIVE.

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PHONE ONLINE 215-646-8815 x352 www.gmahs.org/give

MAIL Use the envelope provided in this magazine

Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE PAID BELLMAWR, NJ PERMIT NO. 403

1345 Sumneytown Pike P.O. Box 902 Gwynedd Valley, PA 19437 Address Service Requested

Empowering Young Women Rooted in Mercy

OPEN HOUSE

Sunday, October 14 11 am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2 pm

BE BOLD. BE MERCIFUL. BE A GWYNEDD GIRL.