Mercy Magazine Summer 2015

Mercy MAGAZINE SUMMER 2015

“For the Circle of Mercy is timeless: it is Spirit of life itself. Which roots us in Faith, and lifts us in Hope, and holds us in God’s loving care.”

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 Sr. Patricia Flynn, R.S.M. Principal Joanne Wiess Vice Principal of Academic Affairs Advancement Office Tammi E. Lake Advancement Director tlake@gmahs.org ext. 326 Karen Price Benson ‘79 Alumnae Director kbenson@gmahs.org ext. 328 Mimi Craig Advancement and Alumnae Administrator mcraig@gmahs.org ext. 352 Debbie Giordano Auction/Annual Fund Task Force Coordinator dgiordano@gmahs.org ext. 368 Mercy Magazine Editor Karen Price Benson ‘79 Contributors Mimi Craig Moira McGinn ’08 Debbie Giordano Photography Karen Price Benson ‘79 Lee Benson Joseph Bradley Moira McGinn ’08 Peapod Design Kim Dunphy Scott ’84 Allison Zaucha ’10 Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School Mission Statement Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School, a Catholic collegepreparatory 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.

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

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

Focus on the Future Dear Alumnae, Students, Parents, Faculty, Staff and Friends: I welcome this opportunity to update you on news of Gwynedd Mercy Academy and keep you informed on the future plans for our school community. On June 5, after students and faculty left for their summer vacations, deconstruction of our library started in anticipation of renovation during the summer months. The transformed space will now be called the Learning Commons. In order to meet the needs of our 21st-century learners, we have found that our students need more conducive space to study while using their technology and print resources together. The Learning Commons will include additional teaching, quiet study and collaborative spaces in addition to the new location of our Mac Lab. This project is anticipated to be completed this September.

In addition to the Learning Commons, three more classrooms have been renovated as part of a long-term project in which nine classrooms now have new furniture. The faculty and staff lunchroom and lounge spaces have also been improved to better serve our devoted teachers and administration.

The 2014-15 school year was full of enhancements to our curriculum offerings and schedule, including a longer school day, more flexibility for students involved in co-curricular activities, and increased opportunities for learning in extended class periods in two of our 10-day cycle. Students, faculty and staff were very pleased with the first year of these changes and we look forward to making continued improvements in the daily course of our students and faculty.

Many of these projects are made possible by the generosity of our donors to our annual giving campaign which includes donations from alumnae, parents, grandparents, and friends in our Circle of Mercy. I assure you that your investment in Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School will continue to reap positive benefits within our community.

I ask you to please keep our girls in your prayers that they might have their best school year yet at Gwynedd, as they continue their journey as competent and compassionate Christian women.

In Mercy,

Sr. Patricia Flynn, R.S.M. Principal

At School page 10

Alumnae Profiles pages 8 and 28

Mercy MAGAZINE SUMMER 2015

Cover story: Annual Circle of Mercy Luncheon page 6

Stay Connected! Visit our website gmahs.org

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154th Commencement Ninety-four scholars and Mercy women are ready to take on the world

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Circle of Mercy Luncheon Annual Alumnae Gathering Reconnects “Mercy Sprited” Women

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Alumna Profile: Jenna Gellenberg ‘11 Budding filmmaker makes directorial debut at GMA

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At School Updates on activities and accomplishments

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Alumnae Sponsored Events CK5K Run/Walk, College-Age Christmas Social, Florida Alumnae Club Luncheons, Girls Night Out, Quizzo

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Annual Fund Thanks to you, we surpassed our goal!

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Reunion Classes and Salute to the Stars Margaret Beirn Barger ’35 Distinguished Alumna Award, Trocaire Leadership Awards, Athletic Hall of Fame and a time capsule!

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Alumna Profile: Amy Devan ‘01 Fashion designer blends creativity with business acumen

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Advancement and Parent Events Golf Classic, Grandparents Day, Mothers’ Club Fashion Show and Mercy Magic Auction

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Alumnae Notes Class Updates, Wedding Bells, New Arrivals, Rest in Peace

Join us! Send your email address to alumnae@gmahs.org

Commencement 2015

94 Scholars and Mercy Women Ready to Take on the World G

raduation at the Academy is a time for celebration. A formal ceremony that marks the accomplishments and achievements of each graduate. It is also a reminder of the great traditions of Mercy that have been passed down over the years. Ninety-four graduates processed through the Performing Arts Center on May 30 wearing traditional full-length white gown and gloves, carrying a dozen long stem red roses at Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School’s 154th Commencement Ceremony.

The ceremony began with an invocation by Belén Fresno Caturla ‘15, who called the class together in prayer to “celebrate all the gifts, laughter and the tears that we have experienced together.” Belén will attend The University of Scranton in August.

Next, during her speech, Erica Pleskunas ’15 gave the salutatory address, reflecting on the “long, exciting, and sometimes stressful journey called high school.” Erica added that through this journey, “we have matured into strong and independent women of Mercy who are ready to confront the challenges of both college and the real world.”

During the ceremony, the class sang “Wherever I Go” by Miley Cyrus, a song about memories made together, moving forward to the next exciting phase yet knowing that a part of this journey will always be carried in their hearts.

After diplomas and medals were distributed, graduates were awarded for their extraordinary commitments to their education 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, Mother Margaret Mary Gold Medal for Highest General Average, and the Michele Granozio ’86 Gold Medal for Leadership, Loyalty and Example of Christian Womanhood. Gold medals were also awarded for each subject area.

Mary Breen ’15 gave the valedictory address and spoke about the transformation that has occurred from the first morning of freshmen year “as [they] stood in front of the mirror adjusting [their] light blue kilts for the first time” and all that has led up to the morning when they “put on [their] white dresses and looked in the mirror at [their] high school selves for the last time.”

Karen McKeaney ’88, a member of the Board of Trustees of Gwynedd Mercy Academy and Senior Director Marketing and Communications at the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, presided over the ceremony. In her address to the graduates, she reflected on her time as a student and what the Mercy experience means. “Our girls are not just prepared through learning, they are prepared because they experienced a school that embodies love, support, service and faith.”

When recalling the celebrations that the seniors participated in during the last weeks of senior year, McKeaney reflected, “one of the most poignant of all happened just this morning when you put on your graduation gown for both its inaugural – and final – debut.”

Just as many classes before them, the graduates of the Class of 2015 entered Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School as young girls and walked across the stage to receive their diplomas as scholars and Mercy women, ready to take on the world.

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College Choices

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Gwynedd proudly presents the college choices of our Class of 2015. All are attending a four-year college.

Erin Elizabeth Adriaansen Bentley University

Madison Elizabeth Bamberger Temple University

Erin Colleen Barras West Chester University of Pennsylvania

Caroline Cullen Bauer La Salle University

Claire Elizabeth Becker Fordham University–Lincoln Center Campus/Rose Hill Campus

Madeline Frances Bell Temple University

Bridget Marie Benner University of South Florida, Tampa

Chelsea Noel Bergman La Salle University

Paula Borlando Saint Joseph’s University

Stephanie Lee Brady Florida Atlantic University

Kyra Elizabeth Brauckmann Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania

Mary Dolan Breen Georgetown University

Elizabeth Leanne Carrozzino Flagler College

Nicole Mary Catalino Princeton University

Olivia Ann Celoni Drexel University

Katelyn Marie Crane University of Pittsburgh

Cristina Deodati Crivelli Pennsylvania State University, University Park

Mary Kathleen Curley Boston College

Kylie Beatrice Dachowski Pennsylvania State University, University Park

Victoria Lynn D’Angelo La Salle University

Natalie Marie Danze Gwynedd Mercy University

Allison Marie DeAngelis Fordham University–Lincoln Center Campus/Rose Hill Campus

Alissa Catherine DeGeorge La Salle University

Emily Yanxue deGrandpre Carnegie Mellon University

Lauren Elizabeth Dempsey Pennsylvania State University, University Park

Belén Fresno Caturla The University of Scranton

Kayla Marie Gesek Franciscan University of Steubenville

Anna Doris Gillespie Pennsylvania State University, University Park

Kelly Ann Gresh University of Pittsburgh

Madisen Helene Grimaldi Duquesne University

Sydney Anna Hirokawa United States Naval Academy

Amanda Morgan Derstine

Devon Colleen Hogan

University of Pittsburgh

La Salle University

Kellie Ann Domenick DeSales University Center

Cristina Alejandra Donnelly Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania

Abigail Elizabeth Drozd New York University

Erin Anne Jacobs West Chester University of Pennsylvania

Kristina Marie Jones Johns Hopkins University

Margaret Gertrude Jones

Lauren Elisabeth Kasper University of Pittsburgh

Lauren Diane Kelly James Madison University

Caroline Mary Kelm Saint Joseph’s University

Lauren Joan Lehman The University of Alabama

Madalyn Catherine Lenahan University of Pittsburgh

Laura Marie Lutes Pennsylvania State University, University Park

Samantha Florence Masterson University of Colorado at Boulder

Emma Therese McCoy The Catholic University of America

Samantha Margaret McDonald University of South Carolina

Sally Ann McDonough Pennsylvania State University, World Campus

The University of Tampa

Tracey Angelina Ermer King's College

Casey Durkin Flanigan Ithaca College

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Clare Moire McHugh

Graduation Awards

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Class of 2015

Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Schreyer Honors College

Shannon Theresa McLoughlin Syracuse University

Kieragh Elizabeth McMenamin Mother Mary Bernard Gold Medal of Honor Mary Dolan Breen

Karen D’Lauro ’60 Gold Medal for School Spirit Kylie Ann Tomlinson

Sister Mary Loyola Gold Medal for Service Kayla Marie Gesek

Mother Margaret Mary Gold Medal for Highest General Average Clare Moire McHugh Honorable Mention: Mary Dolan Breen

Michele Granozio ’86 Gold Medal for Leadership, Loyalty and Example of Christian Womanhood Clare Moire McHugh

Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania

Bridget Marie McNamara Hofstra University

Megan Lynn McTaggart Ursinus College

Devon Gabrielle Merlino Arcadia University

Joanna Regina Moore Northeastern University

Sarah Ann Morris Ithaca College

Bridget Amelia Morrissey Loyola University Maryland

Gold Medal for Art Cristina Deodati Crivelli Honorable Mention: Shannon Theresa McLoughlin

Gold Medal for English Clare Moire McHugh Honorable Mention: Mary Dolan Breen

Gold Medal for French Paula Borlando Honorable Mention: Belén Fresno Caturla

Gold Medal for History Clare Moire McHugh Honorable Mention: Mary Dolan Breen

Gold Medal for Latin Clare Moire McHugh Honorable Mention: Mary Dolan Breen

Gold Medal for Mathematics Mary Dolan Breen Honorable Mention: Clare Moire McHugh

Gold Medal for Music Joanna Regina Moore Honorable Mention: Joanne Mary Chang Stockert

Gold Medal for Science Kristina Marie Jones Honorable Mention: Claire Elizabeth Becker

Gold Medal for Spanish Erika Ann Pleskunas Honorable Mention: Shannon Theresa McLoughlin and Grace Ann Watko

Gold Medal for Theology Mary Dolan Breen Honorable Mention: Madelyn Marie Nelson

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Madelyn Marie Nelson Pennsylvania State University, University Park

Moira Anne Nolan Temple University

Natalie Lawler Ochs Saint Joseph’s University

Quinn Kathryn Pape Loyola University Maryland

Alexa Christine Paul Quinnipiac University

Lauren Elyse Payton Fairfield University

Corinne Elizabeth Persichetti Fairfield University

Taylor Nicole Pickell Drexel University

Erika Ashley Pileggi Drexel University

Kelly Catherine Pizzirani Fairfield University

Erika Ann Pleskunas Drexel University

Emily Marie Price Pennsylvania State University, World Campus

Elizabeth Spencer Radomski University of Kentucky

Molly Elizabeth Riemenschneider East Carolina University

Kathleen Anne Robertson Duquesne University

Eve Catharine Siconolfi Temple University

Jennifer Maureen Smykal Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania

Ashley Nicole Stefanowicz Rollins College

Megan Catherine Stefanski Providence College

Jenna Eve Stefkovic University of Delaware

Annaca Michelle Stieber Moore College of Art and Design

Joanne Mary Chang Stockert Loyola University Chicago

Anne Claire Stone The University of Scranton

Emily Brooke Sullivan Susquehanna University

Sarah Colleen Sweeney The Ohio State University

Kelley Rose Szamboti Salisbury University

Kathryn Elizabeth Tamaro The Catholic University of America

Kylie Ann Tomlinson University of Dayton

Eve Ann Van Scott Drexel University

Mia Regina Venezia Carnegie Mellon University

Christine Maura Wasylenko The University of Scranton

Grace Ann Watko The University of Scranton

Megan Elizabeth Wissert Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania

Casey Anne Wolk University of Florida

scholarhips and awards 2015 Alumnae Director Karen Price Benson ’79 presents the Eileen Ferrick Whiteside ’45 Award to Megan Stefanski ’15.

Patrick and Marlene Castellano present the Dr. Audrey D. Castellano ’77 Memorial Scholarship to Paige Merlino ’18. The scholarship, funded by the Castellanos to memorialize their daughter, is given to a freshman who is proficient and committed to biology, chemistry or math. Paige’s mother Margie Merlino and science faculty chair Susan Mitchell are pictured at right.

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

Trish Keen (right) presents the Carolyn Keen ’10 Memorial Scholarship to Gabrielle Greene ’17. The scholarship,

named after Trish’s daughter, is presented to a sophomore who has a love of Gwynedd, is involved with Gwynedd athletics and is an overall hard working student. Each fall, the CK5K Run and Walk is held to raise money for the scholarship.

Science faculty members Brad Beckman and Susan Mitchell (right) present the Drs. William and Yvonne Brendley Alchemist Award to Ava Rosati ‘16 for her high achievement in honors chemistry. The award was funded by the Brendleys. Ava’s proud parents, Stephan and Jamie Rosati, also are pictured at left.

Athletic Awards were presented to Nicole Catalino ’15 (left) as the 2015 Senior Athlete, Clare McHugh ‘15

(center) as the 2015 Scholar Athlete and Laura Lutes ’15 (right) as the 2015 John F. Meehan Award recipient.

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.

Kathleen Haley Hunsicker ’81 and Chris Haley (pictured left) present the Mary Ann Harron Haley ’50 Music Scholarship to Clare Reckner ’16.

The award, funded by the Haley family, is in honor of their late mother and her love of music. Joining them are Clare’s parents, John and Carol Reckner, and music faculty member Dr. Kathy Myers (right).

Dolly Trainer Brown ’70 presented Eve Siconolfi ’15 with the art award named after her mother Dorothy Hutton Trainer ’28. The cash

award, funded by the Trainer family, is a purchase of a single piece of artwork that is installed in the Alumnae Art Gallery on the wall of the corridor near the art classroom.

Biology faculty member Joanne Saunders (left) presents the Anna B. Darocha Memorial Scholarship for Biology in honor of her late mother to Celia Martone ’17.

The award, funded by the family, is presented to a sophomore with proficiency in the subject and a Christian attitude among her peers and faculty. Celia’s mother and alumna Jocelyn Lamb Martone ’81 is pictured at right.

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Annual Alumnae Gathering Reconnects “Mercy Spirited” Women Last fall, I had such an enjoyable time at the Circle of Mercy Luncheon. What can be better than spending an afternoon with "Mercy Spirited" women! With only one Circle of Mercy luncheon under my belt, I look forward to adding many notches!

— Nancy Pannepacker McKeaney ’64, Chair

The luncheon was a great way to reconnect with friends from my class, and acquaintances from prior years.

I could not believe that 50 years had past when reminiscing about our wonderful years at “Mercy.” I look forward to the next luncheon. It is a fun day and hope to see more of my friends this year.

— Lynne Williams Carroll ’63

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More than 125 alumnae attended the third annual Circle of Mercy Luncheon at Old York Road Country Club in October 2014. The event is designed for those Alumnae who are 50-year or more graduates of the school. The women were able to visit with classmates and other women who shared school days together at Broad Street and Gwynedd Valley.

Every class was represented from 1946 through 1964. Lynne Williams Carroll ’63 chaired this successful event and has passed the duties on to Nancy Pannepacker McKeaney ’64

for the upcoming event on Friday, October 23, 2015. The committee is excited to welcome the Class of 1965 to this year’s luncheon. Invitations will be mailed in early September.

The Circle of Mercy luncheon has become my favorite Alumnae Event. You can catch up with your “Revered Seniors” or “Lowly Green Freshmen.” We have never been disappointed and always enjoy seeing the Mercy Girls who preceded us and followed us.

— Eileen Cairnes Samtmann ‘60

Photos by Allison Zaucha ‘10

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Budding Alumna Filmmaker Makes Directorial Debut at GMA Pictured above: Maggie Borlando ’12, Jenna Gellenberg ’11 and Allison Zaucha ‘10

Jenna Gellenberg ’11 returned to Gwynedd over the 2014 Thanksgiving break to film her NYU thesis film “Snip.” Jenna took the time to write a little bit about her experience and offers some advice to current students and young college students.

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If someone back in 2007 told my freshman-year, GMA uniformclad self that I’d make my directorial film debut at age 21, I would have backed away very, very slowly. Sure, I was a creative and visual thinker; yes, I loved the arts; of course, I lived for Mr. (Andy) Hopkins’ writing assignments (no sarcasm here)… but film production? That would have been a surprise. Little did I know that just four years later I’d be accepted into New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts, a place where I’d surprise myself time and time again.

At NYU, I was lucky enough to have some phenomenal opportunities. I interned with NBC’s Tonight Show starring Jimmy Fallon and CBS’ Blue Bloods, crewed on more than 30 films, launched a casting company where I have worked on music videos for Atlantic Records’ artists, and, most recently, I produced a commercial for Pepsi. The proudest moment of my college career, however, was the day my professor green-lit my thesis film, Snip. I was one of 10 students in my class to be awarded the allotment, and right from the start I knew it was going to be something special.

Snip follows the story of a newly-dead high school teacher who learns to say goodbye to his loved ones, with the help of a special teenage girl. Most films that deal with death focus on how the living grieve the dead; in contrast, Snip focuses on how the dead grieve the living. Instead of viewing death as a one-sided experience, I explore the possibility of a two-way street.

From a directorial perspective, I have wanted to make this film for a long time. Underneath the adventure, heartbreak and witty banter, there lies a timeless message to appreciate the people around you. Collaborating with a crew of more than 25 filmmakers has made me so appreciative of the talent I get to surround myself with, day in and day out. Three months of pre-production, one week of production, and five months of post-production later, I not only have an incredible film that I’m proud of, but I also have a network of colleagues who are now lifelong friends.

After fundraising more than $7,500, casting professional actors, renting top-of-the-line equipment, obtaining proper insurance, creating schedules and shot-lists, and buying props and wardrobe, my crew traveled to my hometown of Blue Bell.

From the very beginning, I knew I wanted to film at my alma mater Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School because of its sentimental value; I wanted to bring my first film back to the place where I discovered my knack for the arts. What is more, I wanted to utilize my GMA connections. I casted Maggie Borlando ’12 as my lead and brought on Allison Zaucha ‘10 as set photographer; both of whom are phenomenal at what they do. I was also thrilled to bring on approximately 15 student extras from GMA and La Salle, not to mention the A-list talent of Gwynedd faculty members Mr. Tom Waltrich and Mrs. Michelle Gordon.

I can’t put into words how grateful I am to the Gwynedd community for their continuous love and support. Although directing this film was stressful, I truly believe my four years at GMA prepared me to be a competent, compassionate and wellrounded leader. Although film production is a male-skewing field, I made sure my voice was heard and I’m honored to say that I was one of two female directors in my class. As for next steps, I’m currently submitting Snip to festivals nationally and internationally, where producers and distributors search for new films and filmmakers to keep on their radar.

For recently graduated GMA seniors and current students, I understand how scary and confusing it is to open a new life chapter… I’m right there with you. But if you continue to push yourself, continue to raise your bar, and continue to question, “Why not me? Why not today?” I am so confident that you’ll surprise yourself in the best way.

For updates about festival status, screenings and how to watch the trailer, “like” Snip on Facebook: www.facebook.com/SnipFilm.

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At School

Made In Mercy Raising Funds for Mercy Girl Rising For more than 150 years, Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School has been leading girls to challenge themselves in all aspects of their lives and the end result has been an incredible assemblage of well-rounded, passionate and learned women.

These Alumnae understand the power of the Mercy Spirit and how to channel that to make a difference. They are an inspiration for our current students as well as a source of pride for the Sisters of Mercy, whose dedicated service to these girls in the most formative years of their lives is evident in their success.

While “educated women” is second nature at Gwynedd, it is an oxymoron in many parts of the world. So this year it seemed quite obvious to four students that the Gwynedd community should work to bring awareness to the true power of an educated woman, a project that would eventually become known as Made in Mercy.

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Five years ago, Gwynedd teamed up with 15 Mercy schools from across the nation to raise funds to build two schools, one in Cambodia and one in Sudan, forwarding the school mission through involvement with this project. The Sisters of Mercy have been working for years to build and maintain these schools. The evolution that this project has undergone, not only from funds raised but also from awareness among our Gwynedd community, has seen incredible growth. Now that the school buildings have been constructed, Gwynedd has committed to assisting Sponsored students in all ways possible to keep the schools open, in the Sudan having the most positive affect in the communities we are serving. There are many threats to young girls who strive to receive an education in these areas but Gwynedd Girls recognize the importance of providing a safe environment for children to learn and have become fervent advocates for this cause.

During the summer months of 2014, Kylie Tomlinson ’15, Joanna Moore ’15, Molly Brown ’16 and Morgan Hafer ’16 got together in anticipation of the school year and they created a plan on how they hoped to leave their mark on the Gwynedd community before graduation.

When thinking about the planning process Joanna shared that “Gwynedd has instilled in us this obligatory feeling of service to others. We wanted to plan an unique fundraiser for Mercy Girl Rising which is an organization close to our hearts.”

Working with Mercy Girl Rising over the past five years, our students and young alumnae have become globally aware of the unbelievable need for education of young women in our world. Students feel strongly that we must bolster enrollment and defend the schools we have helped to build from their hateful adversaries. Our students understand that the young women we help to educate must remain symbols of the future, because educating girls is the only road to end widespread poverty, disease and violence.

“We thought the year that Malala came to Philadelphia was the perfect opportunity to make an impact here in our community in conjunction with Mercy Girl Rising,” explained Joanna. Both Joanna and Kylie were invited with 12 other Gwynedd Girls to attend the Liberty Medal Ceremony in November and were able to meet Malala before she received the medal. Malala served as a beacon of hope for the Gwynedd Girls, only strengthening the incentive to improve the lives of the girls in Sudan.

Planning this large-scale event was no easy feat but our Fathers’ and Mothers’ Clubs worked alongside our students to make it all come together. Not only did they want to raise more funds to send to our schools in Cambodia and Sudan, but students wanted our school to serve as the source of inspiration for the global movement of women’s education and rights.

After nine months of planning and collaboration with school administrators, teachers, 30 student committee members and influential people in the Philadelphia area, the students were ready to kick off the event of the year. On May 16, Gwynedd hosted an outdoor concert in support of Mercy Girl Rising with nine performers taking the stage throughout the day. More than 700 people came out to enjoy the beautiful weather and support Mercy Girl Rising and to raise $22,350. In knowing that a $50 donation would provide a scholarship for a student for one year, our students were overjoyed with the outcome.

After months of working as a team on Made in Mercy, Molly reflected that “the concert definitely surpassed my expectations.

The amount of people that came out and showed support for this community-wide event was amazing. It is a tribute to how wide and diverse the Gwynedd community really is and how the power of a girl can bring about great change.”

At the Liberty Medal Ceremony with Malala Yousafzai

CHANGE STARTS WITH A GIRL The girl effect is alive. Across the world, girls are finding their voices. If we listen to them, we can do something amazing. We can end global poverty – forever.

Mercy Girl Rising Project Things Can Go One of Two Ways for These Girls:

1 She gets a chance She gets educated, stays healthy and HIV negative, marries when she chooses and raises a healthy family.

She has the opportunity to raise the standard of living for herself and her family.

2 None of these things happen She is illiterate, married off, isolated, pregnant and vulnerable to HIV. She and her family are stuck in a cycle of poverty.

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At School

Freshman Kylie Saloma Loves to Skate Through Life

Tom Lonergan Awarded State Coach of the Year It was an amazing season for the Monarchs on the basketball court. They have worked hard for a winning season earning a 19-2 record and doing so with poise and mercy under the direction of the coaching staff led by Head Coach Tom Lonergan. However, as amazing a season as the Monarchs had, Lonergan achieved some major accomplishments in his own right.

On Saturday, December 20, Gwynedd Mercy Academy played at home against Saint Basil Academy where the Monarchs took the win with a final score of 48-32. The significance of the game had not yet crossed Lonergan’s mind until he saw a few players approaching him with a bucket full of confetti. The confetti went over his head and with that he realized that this was his 600th win as a head coach.

Lonergan began his career at Bishop McDevitt, where he won 270 games from 1984 to 1999. He moved on to Central Bucks East, where he compiled 311 victories from 1999 to 2013. The remaining 19 victories took place over the last two years here at Gwynedd.

Coach Lonergan is not only known for his dedication to his team and the sport of basketball but also his commitment to Catholic education and the Gwynedd community. Most Sundays throughout the season, Coach Lonergan gathers his team together for Sunday mass before going to practice.

“Gwynedd is so pleased that Coach Lonergan and his family have become a part of the Gwynedd Community and it only seems to be common sense in Gwynedd Valley that Coach Lonergan has been awarded the 2014 State Coach of the Year for Girls Basketball for his outstanding service and unselfish devotion to basketball at Gwynedd by the National Federation of State High School Association,” says Athletic Director Terri Fasano. “I was not surprised to hear that Tom had received this award.

His passion is basketball,” shares Fasano. “It is a family thing for the Lonergans. Coach Lonergan is someone who has the ability to see the full potential in each of his players and pushes them to reach that during every minute of each game.”

Come support the Basketball Team during the 2015-16 season!

For the full season schedule, visit gmahs.org/athletic-center.

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While most freshmen students are sleeping, studying or hanging with friends, Kylie Saloma ‘18 is practicing with her team to compete as a synchronized skater across the country. Kylie is a member of the prestigious Team Delaware Synchronized Skating Team based at the University of Delaware, having won a rostered spot on the team in fifth grade.

“I became involved with competitive ice skating when I was five years old and have loved it ever since,” says Saloma.

Kylie has also been busy representing her school. “I am proud to be a member of the Varsity Cross Country team at Gwynedd,” she enthused. “It was such an accomplishment for us to win the AACA League Championship title for the first time [this season]. Our team worked so hard to achieve this goal. It is an honor to be coached by Mr. Larry Wilson, who is a legend in the sport and pushes us to our full potential.”

Lacrosse Team Mixes Service with Sports

Lindsay Norton ‘16, Emily Shields ‘16 and Maddie Meagher ‘16 (left to right)

The Gwynedd Mercy Academy Monarchs started a new tradition last year of voting for Junior Service Leaders to lead the team in service activities during the lacrosse season. The purpose of the position is to promote service and help others even when our student-athletes’ lives are busy during their sports season. The team choose three activities and reached out to the school community and their neighborhood communities. The organizations that the Lacrosse team chose to focus on were Manna on Main Street, the L.E.A.P.S (Lacrosse Education Attitude Perseverance Success) program, and organizing a collection for our troops.

This group of young women give of their time and energy throughout their years at Gwynedd and were recognized this year by the Pennsylvania Area Schoolgirls Lacrosse Association (PASLA) when they were awarded the Team Service Award. Their commitment does not falter during their season where they are more involved in order to illustrate that service is important to Gwynedd Girls throughout the year, even when lives are busy.

At School

Expanding International Student Program at Gwynedd

Miao Han ’17, Elaine Cao ’16 and Belén Fresno Caturla ’15 (left to right)

GMA was thrilled to welcome its first international students this year. Jiaxin “Elaine” Cao ’16 and Miao Han ’17 arrived from China last August and quickly embarked on their adventure as Gwynedd students. They have become an integral part of our community, active in many clubs, making lots of friends and excelling in their studies.

Also this fall, Gwynedd Mercy University welcomed visiting scholars, both professors at Yang-En University in Quanzhou, Fujian, China. They recently joined the Gwynedd community for a special assembly on Chinese culture. The professors gave a presentation about their university and then with the help of Elaine and Miao, taught the students Chinese characters. The presentation finished with a special fashion show celebrating traditional Chinese dresses.

Elaine and Miao both joined Diff’rent Strokes, Gwynedd’s diversity club, where they freely shared their culture with the group. Elaine became a member of Mathletes and enjoys using her excellent math skills in competition. Miao shares her piano talent with our community, much to the delight of Dr. Kathy Myers who was thrilled with Miao’s performance recently in Harrisburg at the Chorale Christmas music concert.

The inclusion of our international students has enriched the school on many levels and the Gwynedd community looks forward to welcoming more international students this coming academic year.

Gwynedd Competes at the Penn Relays Attending the Penn Relays at the historic Franklin Field is an awe-inspiring experience as a spectator but as a runner it is truly unforgettable. The enthusiasm of the crowd and the presence of such talented athletes is a humbling experience. Five Gwynedd girls had the opportunity to run in the Penn Relays and made their school proud.

On April 23, Gwynedd Mercy Academy competed in the High School Girls’ 4X100 Small Schools with runners Rachel Koller ’16, Mary Casey ’16, Madi Grimaldi ’15 and Bridget Casey ’18 placing 17th out of 376 schools with a time of 0:49.28. Later in the day, Bridget Casey ’18, Rachel Koller ’16, Maggie Maguire ’16 and Mary Casey ’16 won the 4x400 race in the Philadelphia Academic heat.

On Saturday, April 25, the student athletes returned to Franklin Field. Bridget Casey ’18, Rachel Koller ’16, Maggie Maguire ’16 and Mary Casey ’16 competed in the High School Girls’ 4x100 Tri-State coming in eighth out of eight with a time of 0:49.66.

In less than four hours, they gathered at the starting line again for the High School Girls’ 4x400 Philadelphia Area where they came in fifth out of 12 with a time of 3:54.29.

Maggie Maguire ’16 uses her speed to catch her opponents in the 4x400 Relay.

Rachel Koller ’16 , Mary Casey ’16 , Bridget Casey ’18 and Maggie Maguire ’16 (left to right)

CPR Certification Course Offered During the Spring semester, 71 sophomores participated in a CPR Certification course through their physical education class under the instruction of Mrs. Kate Tobias and parent volunteer, Mrs. Anne McHugh, mother of Clare McHugh ’15.

Students received a two-year certification at the conclusion of the course after receiving a comprehensive education in adult, child and infant CPR. CPR Certifications enable our students to compete for summer jobs and internships that require this skill.

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At School

Sophomores Serving in the Philadelphia community Through the Mercy community and the roots that Gwynedd Mercy Academy has in the Philadelphia area, the Ministry and Service Team reach out to organizations across the region to share their gifts and Mercy values where a need can be fulfilled throughout the school year.

This April, the team, in conjunction with School Minister Amy Cymerman, arranged a day of service for sophomores that would help enrich their Mercy education and enlighten their minds to the blessings in their lives.

On April 17, the sophomore class volunteered at nine different service sites in and around the Philadelphia area in a day celebrated as “Sophomore Immersion.” The sites included Mercy Neighborhood Ministries, Saint Ignatius School, Our Mother of Sorrows Parish, Saint Malachy School, Saint Charles Senior Center, Face to Face in Germantown, The Elmwood Park Zoo, and St. Ignatius Nursing Home. Students and faculty

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assisted their designated service site in whatever capacity they were asked. A group of 15 sophomores worked diligently to make this retreat unique for the Class of 2017.

When asked about her expectations for spending the day with 20 other Gwynedd Girls at Mercy Neighborhood Ministries on Venango Street, Christina Motz ’17 shared, “I hope to make others happy through our special Mercy connection and make a difference in their day.”

At Saint Ignatius School, Gwynedd Girls and faculty were getting the students up and moving with outdoor activities.

Kellie Ambrose ’17 felt that “hearing them laugh is the best part” as she gave high fives to students running around the playground.

This immersion created a reminder for sophomores that there are needs in the local community just as much as in the global community and how important it is to serve others with Mercy in their hearts.

At School

Addie Olson Earned State Science Competition Honors Freshman Addie Olsen ‘18, an honors biology student at Gwynedd, wowed the judges this spring at regional and state science competitions while travelling across Pennsylvania and bringing home significant recognition for her project.

Under the tutelage of Gwynedd’s math teacher Mrs. Heather Norman and science teacher Mrs. Joanne Saunders, Addie presented a project that studied the mathematical probabilities of landing on specific real estate and the probabilities of getting “Chance Cards” and going to “Jail” in the still-popular game Monopoly. Addie received second-place honors in Ninth Grade Mathematics and special recognition with the University of the Sciences Mathematics Award Addie with faculty members Heather Norman (left) and Joanne Saunders (right) at the Montgomery County Science Fair on March 15, which moved her to the next level of competition on April 1 at the Oaks Convention Center.

She received third place among the division that includes eastern Pennsylvania, southern New Jersey and all of Delaware.

In February, Addie placed first in the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science (PJAS) Regional Science Fair at Souderton Area High School and advanced to the state competition at the Pennsylvania State University competition in mid-May. Approximately 3,000 of the best and brightest science students from Pennsylvania’s 13 separate PJAS regions were represented at State College to present their research where Addie received first-place recognition.

“It was a great experience that will help guide my future in the way of mathematics while also communicating to others what I discovered,” said Addie. “I know those communication skills will help me in the future.”

Addie and friends at the state competition in May

Swim Team Takes Honors in the Pool Congratulations to the Gwynedd Swim Team who competed at Bucknell University for the PIAA State Tournament and was awarded Team Runner-Up. Gwynedd also finished their regular season with eight top finishes at the AACA Championship Meet on February 7 at Upper Dublin High School placing fourth overall in the league.

National Signing Day for GMA Athletes Gwynedd is proud of the student athletes who decided to continue their athletic careers during college. Congratulations to the following students who have signed with Division I and Division II athletic programs, pictured left to right: Alexa Paul ’15 (Quinnipiac University, Lacrosse), Nicole Catalino ’15 (Princeton University, Field Hockey), Corinne Persichetti ’15 (Fairfield University, Field Hockey) and Kelly Pizzirani ’15 (Fairfield University, Lacrosse). Ashley Stefanowicz ‘15 (Rollins College, Lacrosse) signed later in the year.

Steph Szekely ‘17, Alaina Zaki ‘18, Kieragh McMenamin ‘15, Mary Kate Curley ‘15, Molly Riemenshneider ‘15, Hannah Blaser ‘16, and Allie Szekely ‘16 (left to right) 15

New AppoiNtees to the Gywnedd Mercy Academy High School Board of Trustees Trustees are elected in accordance with the bylaws of the school.

Each new Trustee is also approved by the Sisters of Mercy community leadership. There is a requirement for at least three Sisters of Mercy to be on the Board. A term of a Trustee is three years with a limit of three terms. The responsibilities include fiduciary oversight of finances, physical assets and long-range plans to ensure the vitality of Gwynedd. In order to meet that responsibility, the Trustees meet five times a year and also participate in meetings of the Advancement, Facilities, Academic, Student Life, Finance and Governance committees.

The Trustees are also responsible for appointing executive leadership of Gwynedd and monitoring executive performance.

2015-16 Trustees* Denise Corkery Marbach ‘72, Chair Kathleen Kirk Bellwoar ’81 Ann Diehl Casey ‘50 Martin Corcoran Sr. Patricia Flynn, R.S.M. Timothy Gillespie Patrick Hopkins Kathleen Daniels Imbesi, Esq. ‘92 Edward Marandola Del Markward Karen McKeaney ‘88 J. Scott Miller Teresa Araco Rodgers ’91 Joseph Rose Sr. Cathe Shoulberg, R.S.M. ‘65

*At the time of printing, several new Board members are still in the process of being appointed.

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KATHY KIRK BELLWOAR ‘81 Kathy is a 1981 Alumna of Gwynedd Mercy Academy and the President and Founder of PPT Consulting. She has more than 25 years of experience in the industry and as a partner of a major global consulting firm prior to founding PPT Consulting. As an entrepreneur of a successful and growing business, Kathy’s sales and business developing skills are critical to her firm’s success. Kathy has managed numerous strategic technology projects from software selection to implementation, and from establishing IT strategy to optimizing business processes.

Recognitions of Kathy’s and PPT’s success include the 2008 Enterprising Women of the Year Award, one of the five finalists for the 2010 KYW Women’s Achievement Award, and the recipient of the Brava Award by SmartCEO. Kathy has a bachelor’s in business administration from Villanova University and a master’s in dynamics of organizations from the University of Pennsylvania. When not working, Kathy stays active in local community and charitable organizations including serving on the Finance Committee at Gwynedd.

TIMOTHY GILLESPIE Tim joined the Board of Trustees at Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School during the 201415 school year. He has since become the chair of the Finance Committee.

Tim works at Wilmington Trust where he is responsible for providing comprehensive wealth management advice to high-net-worth individuals and families, business owners, entrepreneurs and foundations and endowments. As the Market Executive for Wilmington Trust in Pennsylvania, Southern New Jersey, Delaware and Maryland, he manages a group of professionals with expertise in investment management, fiduciary services, wealth planning, and private banking. He

holds a master’s in finance from Temple University and a bachelor’s in accounting/marketing from La Salle University.

Tim is a member of the Estate Planning Council for Philadelphia, the Central Bucks County Chamber of Commerce and the Union League of Philadelphia. He also serves as a board member for the World Affairs Council of Philadelphia and on the finance committee for Mary Mother of the Redeemer Parish in North Wales. He is active in the Parkinson’s Council of Philadelphia. He resides in North Wales with his wife Susan and their three children, including his daughter Maggie ’14.

TERESA ARACO RODGERS ‘91 Teresa graduated from Gwynedd Mercy Academy in 1991. She received her bachelor’s in finance from Lehigh University in 1995.

Teresa began her business career at SEI, a global financial services company. In her 16 years with SEI, she helped establish businesses in Latin America, Africa, Asia and Europe. In 2001, she was asked to explore philanthropy as part of SEI’s offering. She worked with community foundations on their donor programs, financial advisors on promoting charitable gifting vehicles and families on their personal philanthropy. She also revamped the company’s corporate philanthropy program.

Teresa received her master’s and a certificate in nonprofit administration from the University of Pennsylvania in 2004. In 2010, Teresa founded Harp-Weaver LLC to give donors a better way to add meaning and align their gifting with personal, family and financial goals.

Teresa is an avid supporter of women’s philanthropy. She hosts a dinner series for women called “Night Out With Meaning” and is a partner in two women’s collaborative funds: The Globalislocal Fund and Women for Social Innovation. She brings a strong business background balanced with a solid understanding of the nonprofit world and charitable gifting strategies focused on impact.

Teresa and her husband, Greg, live in Chestnut Hill and are proud parents of three children.

PHoToS By LEE BENSoN

ALUMNAE SPONSORED EVENTS

Seventh Annual CK5K Successfully Raises Funds for Scholarship Saturday, September 27, 2014 The seventh annual CK5K Carolyn Keen ’10 Memorial 5k Run/Walk had a tremendous year with more than 300 runners and walkers. The event raised more than $10,000 for the Carolyn Keen ’10 Memorial Scholarship Fund. Following the race, the crowd gathered to honor longtime track and field coach Larry Wilson as Coach Emeritus. Heartfelt speeches were delivered by Coach Wilson’s family, fellow coaches and Gwynedd Alumnae track and field stars in praise of Gwynedd’s Coaching Legend.

Upcoming Race Date: Saturday, October 3, 2015 Start training now!

College-Age Alumnae Return to Celebrate December 19, 2014 The last day of school before the Christmas break was a great day to celebrate as 125 college-age alumnae came home to Gwynedd.

Everyone gathered for an inspiring prayer service in the chapel, headed to the gym for breakfast and then visited with the faculty and students in the classrooms. It was a wonderful way to celebrate the season and it was heartwarming to have them back at the school sharing stories of their college experiences.

College-Age Alumnae Mark Your Calendar: Tuesday, December 22, 2015 Come back and visit!

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Gathered in Apollo Beach (pictured left to right) are Alumnae Director Karen Price Benson ’79, Beth Simoes ’79, Marketing Director Moira McGinn ’08, Teresa Hooten Kozempel ’70, Suzanne Lasko Duff ’82 and Sandra Straw Hopper ’70.

Florida Alumnae Gather to Share the Mercy Spirit February 27 & 28, 2015 Alumnae Director Karen Price Benson ’79 and Marketing Director Moira McGinn ’08 travelled to Florida to have lunch and share some Mercy Spirit with Alumnae living in the Sunshine State. Gatherings were held in Naples at La Lafayette Restaurant and in the Tampa area at the Apollo Beach home of Sandy Straw Hopper ‘70. This was a great opportunity for Alumnae to get together to share memories, a bit of Mercy Spirit and some fun.

Alumnae Lunching in Naples are (left to right) Maggie McCool Murphy-Jones ’65, Nancy Dillon Maddox ’65, Mary Hardimon Sweeney ’54, Carol Hardimon Getz ’60, Joanne O'Donnell, Carmelita Quain Dillon ’60, Jean Daniel Flewelling ’64, Maggie Sullivan Magee ‘69, Jane Sullivan Gibbons ’66, Alumnae Director Karen Price Benson ’79, Carol Sullivan Boland ’59 and Toots Cattie Fee ’61.

Girls Night Out: The Perfect Mix of Retail Therapy and Networking The GMA Alumnae Association sponsored its first “Girls Night Out: Network, Shop and Learn” evening in November. This new event kicked off the holiday season and was designed with our busy and successful alumnae, families and friends in mind.

Attendees were given opportunities to enhance their professional selves, shop for that special someone, or network with old and new friends while enjoying drinks and light fare provided by sponsor Ristorante San Marco of Springhouse. The evening featured a select mix of merchant “pop-up” shops and “edutainment” sessions on timely holiday topics including stress relief, cooking and networking tips.

Bloomingdale beauty artists provided complimentary consultations and makeovers with experts from Bobbi Brown, Chanel and Clarins.

Pop-up shop vendors included Lilly Pulitzer, Coach Outlet, Barnes Foundation Shop, Philadelphia Independents, Children’s Clothing Patch, Gigi and Bette’s, Rhoads Garden, Boutique Textiles, Suzanne Kent Pottery, Village Pharmacy, Xtra 101 Gifts & Accessories, Alice Bakery & Confectionary, League Collegiate Outfitters, Catholic Bling, ChocAmo Cookie Cups, Grand Finale Designs, Brown Dog Ink and Boutique Street.

Approximately 200 people attended the event that was co-chaired by Alumnae Kristin Risi ’87 and Grace D’Alessandro Samanns ’78.

Ladies, Mark Your Calendars Now for a Night Out: Thursday, November 5, 2015 18

PHoToS By JEN TiERNEy ‘09

November 6, 2014

PHoToS By JoE BRADLEy

Golden Alumnae MVP Statues Awarded Top Theme Table at Quizzo February 7, 2015 Gold Gwynedd MVP statues, Rugrats and “It’s Always Sunny at GMA” were among the themed tables for this year’s Quizzo Trivia Night. This very popular event in its sixth year was sponsored by the Alumnae Association. It was an evening of fun and games enjoyed by a very enthusiastic group of alumnae, current parents, alumnae parents, faculty/staff and their family and friends who dressed up to match the theme they created for their tables. Each team competed to become Quizzo Champs, along with receiving awards for the best decorated table, the class with the most alumnae in attendance and the most parents with daughters from the same class in attendance. A very special thank you to co-chairs, Melva Exner ’77 and Andrea Geppert ’05, who worked very hard to make the event a financial and social success and raised $7,000 in scholarship money for Gwynedd.

Don’t Miss out on Quizzo Next Year: Saturday, February 6, 2016 Get your team together!

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Annual Fund 2014-15

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There are amazing new changes coming to our

Annual Giving Campaign!

We look forward to sharing good news with you in September.

STay Tuned for The Special announcemenT!

Welcome neW advancemenT direcTor

Tammi E. Lake As a student of a Mercy education from St. Helena’s in Center Square, Tammi Lake comes to Gwynedd with more than 10 years of experience in fundraising and development. After spending time at a variety of educational institutions both large and small, Tammi is delighted to join the Gwynedd community and serve in this important role.

Most recently, Tammi was the Associate Head of School for Advancement at The Swain School in Allentown, PA. There, she successfully achieved consecutive record years of giving to the school, increasing the annual fund by 60%, completing two capital projects, and growing the school’s endowment to revenue-producing levels in under two years. She also was the staff chair of the school’s second strategic planning process, and oversaw the rebranding and redesign of the school’s bi-annual magazine. Prior to her time at Swain, Tammi served as the Director of Leadership and Parent Giving at Lafayette College and was the Director of Alumni Relations and The Hill Fund at The Hill School. She believes that giving should be a joyous experience for both the donor and the institution, and is eager to get to know the Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School community.

In her free time, Tammi enjoys running, spending time with her family at the beach, and watching Eagles football. She and her husband, Pat, reside in Pottstown with their three children, Nora, Chloe and Cormac. She holds a bachelor’s in economics from Penn State University, and a master’s from Boston University’s Questrom School of Business.

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R eunionC lasses and S alute to theS tars! ★

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The stellar evening began with a liturgy celebrated in the Performing Arts Center officiated by Fr. John Fisher, OSFS. A reception, catered

by Conroy Catering, followed honoring the classes of 1965 and 1990 and all classes celebrating a reunion year. The newly-named winners of the Trocaire Leadership Awards, the new inductees into the Gwynedd Athletic Hall of Fame and the 2015 Margaret Beirn Barger ’35 Distinguished Alumna Award recipient also were honored.

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 life-long 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.

Cathy Cunneff Seese ’46 is joined by her six children, pictured left to right, Jack Seese, Lisa Seese Sadowl ’78, Siobhan Seese Scaring ’86, Quinn Seese Collins ’79, Ki Seese Monning ’74 and Stacey Seese Kreisler ’81.

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Cathy Cunneff Seese ’46 2015 Margaret Beirn Barger ’35 Distinguished Alumna Cathy was born the youngest child of Elizabeth and Raymond Cunneff, having two siblings Betty and Ray. She graduated from St. Helena’s grade school and the Academy of the Sisters of Mercy at Broad and Columbia streets in 1946. Her first impression upon her entrance into the beautiful brownstone houses that made up Mercy, was that she was where she belonged.

Cathy remembers fondly her senior physics teacher, Mother Mary Bernard whom Cathy describes as the most beautiful, brilliant and dynamic woman she has ever met. Mother Bernard is credited with having the foresight to buy the estate in Gwynedd Valley which now contains the high school and university.

For more than 70 years, Cathy has been involved in supporting GMA and continues to proactively reach out to her network of friends and family on behalf of GMA to attend and support countless social and athletic events. All five of her daughters and four of her granddaughters attended GMA, with the youngest a sophomore.

Cathy has never been far from Mercy. She had served for many years on the Alumnae Board, acting as an officer, committee chair and chair of multiple fund-raising events.

In recent years, Cathy was an active participant in the 150th Anniversary Celebration. She served on the Steering Committee, as a class agent for the 1940’s decade and for the reunion celebration, she and her daughter Lisa Seese Sadowl ’78, created, directed and produced the “150 years of Mercy Fashions,” a highlight of the celebration.

While raising her children and helping care for her aging parents, Cathy managed to dedicate many days annually to working for charities helping the less fortunate, including the Right to Life Foundation and the ALS Association.

Today her efforts are directed to working to raise funds to support the Dreuding Center in Philadelphia, run by the Sisters of Holy Redeemer.

She has been a role model for all her six children, their spouses and her 15 grandchildren. Many call her mother but a Mercy girl she will always be.

trocaire Leadership Awards Service to the World

Jen Creed Rego ’94

Carolyn Fontaine Davis ’97

Joely Esposito, Psy.D. ’88

Andi Land Healy ’80

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.

expanded their success with two original Christmas singles.

Several of Jen’s songs have been featured on radio stations nationwide. A fan favorite on WXPN, Jen has sold out multiple Philadelphia-area venues. Her annual performance schedule includes more than 60 solo concerts, weddings, corporate events, charitable functions and community gatherings. She also is frequently called upon as an anthemist for sports teams, charity events and races.

Jen believes that music is therapy, healing and unifying individuals and the world. She joined forces with the Musicians on Call program, bringing her voice to hospital bedsides in Philadelphia.

She works full-time as the choral director and executive director of musical theater at Merion Mercy Academy. She shares her talent as a vocal coach and regular cantor at Old Saint Joseph’s, Old Saint Mary’s, Our Mother of Consolation, and Saint Alphonsus. Jen is married to Philadelphia 76ers stalwart Scott Rego.

Carolyn Fontaine Davis ’97

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Jen Creed Rego with family and guests

Save the Date Saturday, March 19, 2016 for next year’s Salute to the Stars Event!

We will honor classes ending in “1” and “6.”

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Jen Creed Rego ’94

2015 Trocaire Leadership Award ~ Business/Entrepreneur/Engineer

2015 Trocaire Leadership Award ~ Arts A “born singer,” Jen began her lifelong study of music at the age of five. Awarded full scholarships to both high school and college, she graduated summa cum laude from Catholic University with degrees in voice performance and mathematics.

Throughout her musical career, her spellbinding voice and spirit have wowed both critics and audiences throughout the world.

When a vocal injury in 2003 resulted in surgeries and years of rehabilitation, Jen vowed to help others with similar setbacks.

Uniting her passions for philanthropy and music, she accepted a fellowship in voice medicine by worldrenowned voice surgeon, Dr. Robert Sataloff, and was named executive director of the international nonprofit, the Voice Foundation. Today, Jen continues to serve on the Board of Directors.

Returning to the stage and studio in 2010, Jen released her highly-acclaimed debut album, Goodnight Is Not Goodbye, produced by Grammy-winner, Glenn Barratt. In 2013, she and Barratt

Carrie is a Vice President for the Rotondo-Weirich Companies, a construction company that focuses on the delivery of specialty contracting services in the correctional industry, particulary precast modular building of housing units, detention equipment and security electronic services. The company has built projects throughout the U.S. and internationally. Davis currently chairs recruiting for the firm which has more than 280 employees as well as provides business direction, counsel, oversight and assistance to the company’s operations, estimating, marketing, human resources and accounting departments. She is the only female on the company’s board and reports directly to the CEO, Steven Weirich—her career mentor.

Carrie joined the company directly upon graduation from the University of Scranton in a marketing coordinator role, and was driven to learn other areas of the business. Her love of numbers, competition and developing relationships made construction estimating a perfect career fit. She was promoted to Chief Estimator in 2005. In 2010, she became Vice President. She has worked closely with clients and RW’s teams to develop the most efficient and cost-effective construction solutions for each specific project. Her contribution has translated

Carolyn Fontaine Davis with her husband and parents

to millions of dollars of revenue growth and significant construction savings through value engineering execution. She also works within the company on team building and talent development. Davis has represented RW in more than 30 states, the Caribbean and Australia.

Carrie was a Key Executive member of the Philadelphia chapter of Vistage International, the world’s leading CEO organization from 2010-14. She earned her U.S. Green Building Council LEED AP credential in 2009. She co-produced the high school’s musicals from 2003-06, meeting her husband Tom at GMA! They reside in Ambler with their son Tommy and newborn son James.

Joely Esposito, Psy.D. ’88 2015 Trocaire Leadership Award ~ Healthcare Joely is a true “Mercy Girl” having attended Hobbit House, GMA Elementary and GMA High School. She earned her bachelor of science degree in clinical psychology from Tufts University (1992), her master’s degree in clinical psychology from Widener University (1995) and her doctor of psychology

Joely Esposito with family and guests

Andi Land Healy ’80 2015 Trocaire Leadership Award ~ Religion/Vocation/Volunteer

degree in clinical psychology from Widener University (1997). She is also board certified in neuropsychology, and holds licenses to practice in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

Joely is a neuropsychologist and partner at Clinical Neuropsychology Associates, with offices in Philadelphia, Bucks County and New Jersey. Her job includes providing therapy and evaluation services to individuals with known or suspected neurological conditions causing cognitive and psychological deficits, and to individuals with learning disorders, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, and other developmental disorders.

She also provides consultation services to medical professionals, other mental health professionals, schools and attorneys. In addition, she supervises graduate students as interns and practicum students. Joely also volunteers her time to give presentations about the brain to various audiences, including other professionals, support groups and elementary school children.

In addition, her practice provides concussion screenings to Philadelphia high school athletes at a one-day free event organized by the Athlete Health Organization.

Joely grew up in Lansdale and Gwynedd Valley and she currently lives in Upper Gwynedd. She is married to David Walsh. They have a 10-year-old daughter, Reiley, who is in fourth grade at GMA Elementary School.

In 1967, Andi entered Gwynedd Mercy Academy’s class of 1980. At that time the elementary and the high school were still combined.

Born in North Philadelphia, her family moved to Blue Bell in pursuit of a Mercy education in Gwynedd Valley.

Graduating from GMA, Andi entered Mount Saint Mary’s University and received a bachelor’s degree in elementary education in 1984.

Upon graduation Andi joined her families’ business, Wissahickon Spring Water, Inc. As vice president of marketing, she helped to establish market opportunities during a high growth period. She also worked with local and international communities to address safe and potable drinking water issues. Andi also practiced her love for teaching at Springside School in Chestnut Hill.

Over the years, Andi has served as a consultant or board member for Young Philadelphians for the Homeless, Medicines for Humanity, 22 Reasons, La Puerta Abierta and most recently Focus on Haiti.

Andi actively supports the immersion of Mercy-sponsored high school and university students in the culture of Haiti, particularly the community of Gros Morne, a mountain city of about 7,000.

The involved Mercy students travel there and are working to re-establish a school lunch program for their counterparts in Haiti.

Andi and her husband, AJ, reside in Gwynedd Valley and are the proud parents of Ainsley and Sara.

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Andi Land Healy with her husband and daughters 25

athletic hall of fame Awards

Moira Durkin Tozier ’00

Kate Hosterman Tobias

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.

Moira Durkin Tozier ’00 2015 Athletic Hall of Fame Moira is the oldest of five children of Don and Maria Wackerman Durkin ’73 and attended Gwynedd from 1996-2000.

During that time, she swam for Gwynedd and trained year round with a nearby club team.

At Gwynedd, Moira specialized in the 100 backstroke and 200 individual medley. In 1998, Moira was recognized as being among the top 16 in the nation for women’s 200 backstroke in her age group.

In Moira’s junior-year season, she set the District record for the 100 backstroke and was named District Swimmer of the Year. During Moira’s senior year, Gwynedd won the District and State titles. On that championship team, Moira won the District in the 100 backstroke and 200 IM events, and finishing second in both at States. She was also a member of the 200 medley relay and the 4 x 100 freestyle relay.

After graduating from Gwynedd, Moira continued swimming at Villanova University.

She graduated from Villanova with a liberal arts degree. After working for several years, Moira decided to pursue a career in nursing. She is enrolled in the accelerated nursing program at Marymount University, with the goal to work with the geriatric community once she becomes a registered nurse.

In August 2014, Moira married her husband, Steve Tozier, and they now live in Arlington, Virginia. Moira and Steve are the proud parents of William Donald, born March 29. William’s arrival kept Moira from attending the Salute to the Stars event.

Kate Hosterman Tobias 2015 Athletic Hall of Fame Kate earned a degree in exercise science from Penn State University in 1990 and joined the teaching staff at GMA in 1998.

She quickly fell in love with the school and especially the students. Sr. Rosemary Powers ‘53, Gwynedd’s athletic director at the time, recognized Kate’s talents and selected her to coach both field hockey and lacrosse at the ninth grade and junior varsity level respectively.

In 1999, she took over the varsity field hockey and swimming teams and in 2001 she started coaching varsity lacrosse. Kate has coached a career total of 14 varsity seasons at GMA. In 1999, her field hockey team went 18–1 and in 2000, went to the first round of state’s playoffs after taking second place in district play.

In two years as the swimming coach, Kate’s team won two district titles. In 2000, her team won the state championship while the following year they took second in the state.

As a varsity lacrosse coach, her biggest accomplishment came in 2004 when her team went undefeated in regular play, winning both the Bicentennial and Catholic league titles and made it to the quarter finals in district play. That season, Kate was recognized by “The Reporter” as Coach of the Year. In 14 seasons of coaching at GMA, 11 teams participated in district play and 12 teams amassed winning records. She is proud to have coached four individuals and two teams that have previously been inducted into Gwynedd’s Athletic Hall Fame.

In 2008, Kate resigned from coaching to focus on her teaching and family.

Health and physical education is truly Kate’s passion. She teaches with enthusiasm and compassion and has engaged her students in different ways to achieve their own well-being as well as others. This has included her involvement in Think Tank, SpeakUp, SADD, Health Club, Health Fairs, Kindness Week, Bullying Awareness, Multi-Media Assemblies, United Day – Sixteen Meaningful Minutes and Pre-Prom Assemblies.

Outside of Gwynedd, Kate is an active member of her church and volunteers at Montco Gym where her daughter participates in competitive gymnastics.

Kate enjoys spending time outdoors with her husband, Dave and daughter, Haley.

★ Kate Tobias and Family

To see a complete list of those honored with Alumnae Awards, visit gmahs.org/alumnae.

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1965

reunion celebrations highlighted by the opening of the 1990 Time Capsule ★

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The Class of 1965 (pictured above) celebrated

their 50th reunion and received engraved gold charms from the alumnae association to commemorate the occasion. The Class of 1990 received silver charms and had a great time reminiscing and opening their time capsule that they buried 25 years ago in the quadrangle. The capsule contained a video, uniforms, photos, programs, demerits, a locker key and many other items that brought back memories of their high school time spent together.

1990

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When and why did you decide to study fashion design?

Fashion Designer Amy Devan ’01 Blends Creativity with Business Acumen From New york Fashion Week to the pages of the Wall Street Journal, Gwynedd Alumna Amy Devan ’01 is getting a lot of attention these days in the fashion industry as the owner and creative director the women’s fashion brand NAVEDA. We asked Amy a few questions about her career and business and what aspects of her Gwynedd education impacted her.

I went to Drexel University for undergrad, then went on to earn my MBA in marketing and financial management in 2006. I have always been an entrepreneur and a creative – forever trying to find balance between the two. I worked in the marketing and business development area for several years and finally got to a point in life where I had to do something for myself – I had to take a leap of faith (in myself) and go after a dream. When I finally came to that “now or never decision point,” I applied to worldrenowned, Parsons -The New School for Design, in New York City. I got in…and that was my ticket to chase after this dream. I haven’t looked back since and it’s been the most liberating decision of my life – and I couldn’t have done it without the love and support of my family and close friends. Making a career change so different than the “norm” is an indescribable risk, but for me – I had to do this for ME. I made a promise to get up every time I faced a bump or fail, and just keep moving, growing, and learning. It is said, “The biggest regrets in life are the ones you didn’t take.” That has become my motivator!

Did you work somewhere else before you started your business?

I worked in the marketing and sales arena for several years, among different industries – from the creative world, to real estate, to financial services. I learned what it means to prospect, to build a customer base, to develop working relationships with clients and putting their needs first, operations, product positioning, closing a deal, strategic and financial planning, etc. I thank my lucky stars every single day that I was given those opportunities to truly understand business (and I am still learning). That background allowed me to build a foundation for my business today.

When did you decide to go into business for yourself?

Growing up, I had made an internal goal to start something of my own before I turned 30. I wanted to experience what true entrepreneurship was. Well…I was approaching 30 and to me, that meant I had to make a decision. That’s when I applied to Parsons (without telling anyone but my parents), and that was the beginning of this turning point for me.

How did you name your company?

I’m a first generation American-born Indian and both these cultures define me. The business is creatively and literally a reflection of my East and West identity. If you take my first initial and last name, then flip it backwards (like a reflection) – it spells NAVEDA.

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Where are you located?

My business is based in the Philadelphia area, but I first began the brand while living in New York City. I brought it back home to Philly because I saw a transition in the creative world happening in Philly. Sure, New York and LA are still seen as fashion centers, but there is such art historically built into this city – the kind of creative passion you feel! It’s everywhere – in the architecture, the culture, the street art, and the street style.

Over time, Philly has developed its own vibe, and I wanted to be part of that movement.

Do you do all the designs? Do you handle all of the business aspects?

As any business owner would agree – your business and brand become your baby. I have my hand in everything – from sales and marketing, to strategy and finances, to design and product development, and of course to customer relationships. It started with just me, and overtime has developed to a virtual team model of several team members, each with a different focus or specialization. This doesn’t count all of the unbelievably talented artisans and factory laborers we work with overseas – true credit goes to them.

Tell us about your designs! Who are your customers? What is the cost range of your designs?

The NAVEDA aesthetic is best described as “wanderluxe.” It is a mesh between free-spirited energy, exotica, travel, glamour and luxury. It is a lifestyle – a way of thinking that blends dreamer characteristics with sophistication. The NAVEDA woman is someone who loves the idea that a single piece in her wardrobe tells a story, it took work and time to make, and is now an iconic statement piece she can style in countless ways with items already in her closet. Price points are typically in the $50 to $300 range for ready-to-wear, depending on the amount of hand-embellishment and textiles used. Our Bespoke (custom bridal and couture) start in the range of $1500.

Any advice for the young Gwynedd Girl who wants to “break into the business”?

I would suggest doing some initial homework before jumping in. Research the industry, talk to anyone and everyone in the business, learn and ask questions, and last but not least…dig deep and ask yourself, “will this make ME happy?” If the answer is yes without a doubt, go for it! Be prepared for highs and lows, and be ready to work harder everyday than the last.

Zen Mini Dress

Spring/Summer 2015 Collection: Tulip Dress (left) and Beaded Cover 29

What is your favorite piece that you have designed?

It’s hard to pick a favorite, but I absolutely love our Beaded Pencil Skirt from our Fall/Winter 2014 Collection, which made its first runway appearance during New York Fashion Week. It’s been a piece that even now so many customers remember and request, and I believe it’s because that single piece identifies our brand – it’s a beautiful blend of exotic, free-spirited elegance, or how I personally like to call “wanderluxe.”

Crepe Box Pleat Top and Beaded Pencil Skirt

Beadded Creme Brulee Gown

What recognition, awards or media attention have you received?

In the first year of business, I had the honor of presenting my work during New York Fashion Week and subsequently during London Fashion Week. Those were two opportunities I’m ever grateful for, and most proud of. Aside from that, we have been featured in numerous domestic and international publications from In Touch Magazine, Regard Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, Fit n’ Style Magazine, India.com, Philadelphia Style Magazine, Philly News, The Daily News, etc. We have also had the pleasure of dressing some of Hollywood’s and international starlets – most recently being worn to the Cannes International Film Festival.

Where do you see the future of the business?

There are two segments of the business – ready-to-wear and bespoke (which includes custom couture and bridal-wear). I see the ready-to-wear segment growing more and more amongst luxury retailers across waters (we’re already selling in stores across the country) and the bespoke side growing in-house. We are actually coming out with a Bridal-wear Collection.

What aspects of your Gwynedd education remain with you today?

We were taught how to work with discipline, and most importantly self-respect and self-motivation – those are things I strive for daily, and I hope they never fade. I came to Gwynedd at the beginning of my junior year. Though I only spent two years at GMA, there were so many teachers and courses that were influencers for me. It’s interesting, the class I remember as being the most eye-opening for me was Theology – and I remember being the only minority and the only one believing in a different religion other than Catholicism. I remember wondering on the first day of class how I would relate to what was going to be taught. However, I was never looked at as “different” and I sat there studying theology with interest thinking, “Wow…it doesn’t matter how different one’s upbringing, religion or culture is, morals and core values are the same.” It’s like this universal language that suddenly was clear to me, and that was when I first began thinking about why we as a human race sometimes draw such seemingly defining lines between people, places and thought. That has stuck with me, and I hope that through my work I am able to continue to draw parallels between societies and thinking.

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See more of Amy’s designs at navedacouture.com

ADVANCEMENT AND PARENT EVENTS 23rd Annual Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School

G LF CLASSIC Monday, October 20, 2014 at North Hills Country Club

The 23rd annual Golf Classic teed off at North Hills Country Club on Monday, October 20. Golfers enjoyed the contests and camaraderie and the beautiful weather. Many thanks to the Golf Committee led by co-chairs Jerry Desmond and Joe DeColli and to the Golf Auction Committee led by co-chairs Aida DeColli and Anne Hasson Hyer ’88. The support of our many sponsors and golfers contributed to a financially successful event.

Mark your calendars for the 24th Annual Golf Classic at Whitemarsh Valley Country Club October 19, 2015 BECOME A SPONSOR! For Details, Contact Mimi Craig at mcraig@gmahs.org or call (215) 646-8815, ext. 352

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Grandparents Day Fashion Show – Moira write up and photos

MERCY MAGIC AUCTION XXIV Celebrating Women in the Movies

Grandparents Day October 15, 2014 Gwynedd welcomed the grandparents of the Class of 2018 to the third-annual Grandparents Day which was a great success!

Grandparents enjoyed a brief program followed by lunch and a tour of the school, lead by their very special granddaughters.

What a memorable day for everyone and one that added new members to our Circle of Mercy.

Mothers’ Club Fashion Show January 25, 2015 Mothers, daughters and alumnae gathered for the annual Fashion Show held at Presidential Caterers in East Norriton on Sunday, January 25. More than 35 Gwynedd Girls traded their kilts for the latest in Nicole Miller fashions with hair and makeup services provided by Rapunzel’s Salon and Spa. Bridget Morrissey ’15, daughter of Judy Edling Morrissey ’79, and Ashley Stefanowicz ’15 complete the look just before the show begins.

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Strong, successful women are a hallmark of GMA and the Mercy Magic Auction Committee celebrated this with this year’s auction theme, “Gwyneddwood, Celebrating Women in the Movies.” The March Auction party was filled with the glamour of Hollywood and the energy of approximately 200 Gwynedd celebrities, our parents, alumnae and friends, in attendance that evening.

The co-chairs, Anne and Tom McHugh and Cate (Lafferty ’84) and Mike Stefanksi, left nothing to the imagination from the building of movie marquees to one-of-a-kind centerpieces that showcased female movie stars across the decades.

Decorating co-chairs, Mary Catalino and Lisa Salamone, created the drama needed for the evening with a larger-than-life “filmstrip” of our favorite women from the movies and created a star-studded filmstrip reel of our students.

The talented Gwynedd theater and music students entertained during the evening from singing show tunes to performing movie themes on the piano and the harp for guests to enjoy while bidding on items. The hors d’ouevres, meal and dessert bar, served by parents John and Beth Conroy of Conroy Catering, were one of the many highlights of the evening. The committee of volunteers planned a fantastic evening for all of our guests. The evening was a financial success and will provide support to all the programs that benefit our students.

Auction

Mark your calendars now for the 25th annual Mercy Magic Auction on Saturday, March 5, 2016!

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The Circle of Mercy is Timeless...

An invitation from Toots Cattie Fee ’61, Chairwoman of the Catherine McAuley Legacy Society: Please join the members of the Catherine McAuley Legacy Society in leaving a bequest to Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School.

The Catherine McAuley Legacy Society honors the Foundress of the Sisters of Mercy. Membership in the Society recognizes the generosity and special foresight of those who contribute to the future of Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School. By naming us a beneficiary in your will and estate plans, you can make a positive and lasting impact on the future of Gwynedd by enabling us to fulfill our mission to educate young girls to become competent and compassionate Christian women.

Service and giving is a Mercy tradition. For more than 150 years, a countless number of alumnae, friends and parents have made substantial contributions to the school.

You are invited to join our long line of Mercy supporters by becoming a member of the Catherine McAuley Legacy Society by including a bequest in your will that names Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School as a beneficiary of your estate. A bequest is a flexible, time-honored way to establish a lasting legacy. After providing for loved ones, you may decide to make a charitable contribution of a specific amount, a percentage of your estate, or all or part of what remains after all others have been remembered.

m

“Each day is a step we make towards eternity and we shall continue thus to step from day to day until we take the last step, which will bring us into the presence of God” ~Catherine McAuley

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Charter Members Karen Price Benson ’79 Berenice Trainor Brophy ’42 Ann Diehl Casey ’50 Carol Chiodo ’75 Patricia Donnelly ’54 Kathleen (Toots) Fee ’61 Tina Wahl Glanzmann ’93 Joanne Taylor Kostos ’54 Barbara J. Karry Lund ’57 Denise Corkery Marbach ’72 Mr. and Mrs. James Morris Mary Jane Morrow ’70 Alicia Mundy ’71 Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Rose Eileen Cairnes Samtmann ’60 Roseanne Nagle Ziff ’53 Mary Kane Zimmerman ’61 Members Eileen Corkery Farrell Marie Michel Naples ’48 Kathleen Dougherty Niles ’55 Joseph C. Romano Nancy Strong ’41 Verna McCafferty Walters ’64

For more infomation, contact Advancement Director Tammi E. Lake at (215) 646-8815, ext. 326 or tlake@gmahs.org

ALUMNAE NOTES THE

’30S

THE

SEND US YoUR NEWS AND PhotoS! alumnae@gmahs.org

’90S

Alberta McGovern Windsor ’39 writes proudly that a Los Angeles

Karin Risi ’90 has been with The Vanguard Group, Inc. for 18

producer has purchased the rights to her daughter Andrea’s screenplay “As the God’s Slept.” She is equally proud of her son, Russell, an orthopedic surgeon at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York, her granddaughter, Gillian, a fashion buyer for GAP, her grandson, Russell, who speaks Chinese fluently and is a banker for Bank of Tokyo and lastly, grandson, Eric, a pre-med student at Temple Medical School.

years. Her leadership skills and deep experience are essential in her position as principal and head of Vanguard’s largest division, a $1.26 trillion retail investor group, which encompasses Personal Advisor Services. Karin, her husband Sean McHale, daughter and son live in Malvern, PA.

THE

’50S

Artist Margaret Walsh Huddy ’57 retired from the studio at the

Torpedo Factory Art Center but continues to paint “en plein air.”

Next winter she and hubby Norman are moving to an over 55 retirement community in Frederick, Maryland.

THE

’60S

Ginni Groves Sackett ’67 is the Director of Primary Training at

Montessori Northwest in Portland. She is passionate about advancing the international Montessori movement and bringing the benefits of Montessori education to children worldwide. Ginni lives in southeast Portland with her husband, Jon, where they raised five children. In addition, Ginni is a third-degree black belt in the Indonesian martial art of Poekoelan Tjimindie Tulen, which she has practiced for 22 years. She is also a certified self-defense instructor, specializing in women’s and children’s self-defense programs.

Michelle Danella ’92 graduated from Villanova University with a bachelor’s and earned a master’s in nutrition education from Immaculata University. Following her internship at Albert Einstein Medical Center, she became a Registered Dietitian.

After working as a clinical dietitian, Michelle’s love for helping others continued to grow and she decided to open MDWellness.

MDWellness provides personalized nutrition and lifestyle counseling and services that address weight management, corporate wellness, emotional eating, eating disorders and medical nutritional therapy. Michelle has been a Licensed Dietitian/Nutritionist in the state of Pennsylvania since 2004.

She is a member of the American Dietetic Association as well as the Sports, Cardiovascular and Wellness Nutritionists, Weight Management, and Nutrition Entrepreneur dietetic practice groups.

Jennifer Cervone Guarnaccia ’93 lives in Blue Bell with her husband David and three children; Olvia, (11), Bella, (9) and David, Jr. (5). For the past 15 years, she has been the operations director of JCR Physical Medicine Group.

Members of the Class of 1979 gathered in January for dinner at the Blue Bell inn. Pictured from left to right are Chris Dougherty Tadros ’79, Maribeth Maddonni Huber ’79, Judy Edling Morrissey ’79, Joan Scanlon Alicea ’79, Donna Proietto Phillips ’79, Regina Graham Maioriello ’79, Hope Mammana Graham ’79 and Quinn Seese Collins ’79.

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THE

’00S

Alex Malatesta McMahan, Esq. ’05

Jillian Mele ’01 can be seen daily on the Comcast Network, as one of the hosts of a new morning sports talk show, called Breakfast on Broad. The show airs from 6 to 8 a.m. and features opinion and discussion of the performances and lives of local athletes and sports teams.

Caitlin McManus Burkey ’05 married Garrett Burkey on September 20, 2014. Pictured with the bride (top left to right) are Ann Sacchetti Pagano ’71, Kerianne Losier ’04, Jillian Chiarantona Jayson ’02, Megan Morris Bollard ’04, Caitlin McManus Burkey ’05, Lexy Chiarantona ’06, Morgan Bettinger ’05, Maid of Honor and Christy Losier ’07.

Also pictured (bottom left to right) are Madeline Heck Scherwitzky '05, Patricia Blust Morris ’73, Nancy Blust Chiarantona ’70, Kathy Blust McManus ’71, Megan Blust Losier ’76, Kristin Santarone ‘06.

Ann Good ’06 has relocated to Seattle, Washington to accept

is the new Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School field hockey coach. In addition, she is the owner and head coach of the Main Line Field Hockey Club. The MLFHC is the first field hockey club to offer advanced level skill development in the heart of the mainline of Philadelphia. After graduating from Gwynedd, Alex went to Division I, University of Richmond on a full athletic scholarship. While at Richmond, Alex was the captain of the field hockey team and received numerous awards for athletic and academic excellence. To learn more about MLFHC check out the website www.mainlinefieldhockey.com.

Mary Bridget Bocchino ’06 received the Graduate Achievement Award and a master’s degree from La Salle University’s School of Education. Mary is a certified reading specialist (grades K-12) and teaches in the Abington School District. She is looking forward to beginning doctoral studies.

Christy Losier ’07 worked in New York City for Credit Suisse for two years and then ESPN for two years after graduating from Georgetown University in 2011 with a degree in Finance. Christy will be taking some time off for travel this summer and then begin working on her graduate business degree at Harvard Business School this August.

a position with the Social Security Adminstration.

Jaclyn Kustra ’06 married Christopher Pescatore on

November 1, 2014.

BE SURE YoU ARE coNNEctED! Social media communications are a primary source of spreading the word to Alumnae. Many invitations to events and special class news are sent through email, Facebook and linkedIn.

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After graduating from Villanova with a bachelor’s, Maddie Meade ’08 earned her master’s in clinical psychology from Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. In addition to working as an outpatient therapist, she is also writes an advice column for Disabled Magazine called “Ask Maddie?”

THE

’10S

After graduating from the University of Notre Dame, in May of 2014, Grace Foster ’10 moved back to the area and is working in Valley Forge for Lockheed Martin as a software engineer. She is looking forward to being a part of future GMA functions!

WEDDING BELLS

Jessica Rose ‘06 married Stewart Ryan on June 14, 2014. Jessica’s sister, Kellie Rose ’11 and sister-in-law, Dorothy Ryan ’07 were part of her bridal

party. Jess is a speech-language pathologist with the Delaware County Intermediate Unit and resides in Ardmore.

Alison McGrorty ’04

married Russell Crotts on October 4, 2014. The bride is pictured with her sister Karalyn McGrorty Derstine ’01 at left. Alison is also pictured with friends including Gwynedd Girls (pictured from left of bride) Jennifer Pyott ’04, Margaret Reilly Jenks ’04 and Casey Mulhern Cumiskey ’04.

Kelly Gallen ’07 married

Mike Briganti on Oct. 11, 2014. Gwynedd girls (left to right) Jenna Bourdow ’07, Kellie Gazak ‘07, Kate Ritinski ’07, Jen Bach Reilly ’07, Kelly Gallen Briganti ’07, Chelle Rose Buscarino ’07, Colleen Foley ’07, Kacie Gallen ’09, Carolyn DeLisi ’07 and Meghan Payton ‘07.

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NEW ARRIVALS! Carolyn Fontaine Davis ’97, a son, James Conrad, born

May 19, 2015 Rebekah Ferguson Bernard ’97, a daughter,

Olivia Grace, born February 23, 2015 Mandy McKeogh Notaristefano ’97 and Alex (GMA Volleyball Coach 2001-2013),

a son, Adam James, born March 2014 Cassandra Tronoski Maloney ’98, a son,

Ryan Thomas, born December 2, 2014 Michelle Barbera Shipe ’98, a daughter, Caroline Mary, born on June 19, 2015 Kate Kuttler White ’98, a daughter, Alexandra (Lexie) Mae, born January 29, 2015

Adam James Notaristefano

Laura Czulada Zaveri ’98, a daughter, Audrey Beth, born April 2015 Krista Reis Lynch ’99, twin daughters, Aileen Grace and

Catherine Rose, born June 28, 2015 Ashlee Janiszewski Biondo ’00, a son, Joseph John, born

December 10, 2014 Moira Durkin Tozier ’00, a son, William Donald, born

March 29, 2015 Beth Merlini Vitucci ’01, a daughter, Isabelle Olivia, born

February 27, 2015 Anna Skoien Lall '02, a son, Peter Joseph, born March 19, 2015.

Kara Boland Mangat ’02, a son, Brayden Mayer, born

January 7, 2015 Sarah Exley Ozimek ’04, a

daughter, Elin Astrid, born March 12, 2015 Christine Meehan Galvin ’05,

a daughter, Maeve Evelyn, born November 20, 2014 Jennifer Barbera Swierzbinski ’07,

a daughter, Clare Michelle, born May 11, 2015 Grace Keenan Raisch ’08, a son, Daniel Patrick Thomas, born May 20, 2015

Allison Zaucha ’10 has started Dreams That Could Be, a photo/video project, in collaboration with Andrew Bilindabagabo alongside Givology, Abaarso, Cercle Social, and Aid India to meet driven students who are pushing past extreme barriers to go to school, to get their education, and to change the world. Starting in February 2016, Allison and Andrew will be traveling to India, West Africa and throughout the United States to meet a select group of students as they tell their stories, creating advocacy for better education. The entire project will culminate in galleries in different cities throughout the United States and a final photo book that will be for sale. For more information, please visit www.dreamsthatcouldbe.com.

Jim and Sandy Bumgardner, the parents of Jamie Bumgardner ’11, are grateful to Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School for the supportive learning and athletic experience she had while a student at the academy. They feel that was the foundation of her very successful career in the classroom and on the lacrosse field while at George Washington University. As a Division I lacrosse player in the Atlantic 10 Conference, Jamie has continued to excel, garner awards and break records in the NCAA Division and the highly competitive A-10 Conference. One of the latest bullet points on her impressive athletic resume is that of George Washington’s “All-Time Assists Leader” with 102 as of April 18, 2015. Jamie graduated in May and will be traveling through Europe this summer!

Amanda D’Orazio ’11 has been accepted into Arcadia University’s Master of Science in Forensic Science (MSFS) program. The program is nationally accredited by the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC) of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS). Arcadia University’s Graduate Forensic Science curriculum is one of only a select few in the country to hold this accreditation. The MSFS degree is offered by Arcadia University in partnership with the Center for Forensic Science Research & Education.

Elin Astrid Ozimek

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WhAt’S NEW WIth YoU? alumnae@gmahs.org

Katherin Sibel ’11 has been very active in and out of the classroom during her college experience. In her freshman year, she made reusable containers mandatory in her university’s cafeteria, thus reducing pointless waste. By her sophomore year, she was coordinator of the “Green Eagles” an environmental educators’ group. That year the “Green Eagles” implemented composting campus-wide. Katherin also interned with the Inter-cooperation Development Bank, Sierra Club and the Environmental Protection Agency.

During her junior year, Katherin studied in Copenhagen with the European Sustainable Development Program. As a senior, she served as President of the Delta Phi Epsilon Foreign Service Sorority and is looking forward to beginning her work as a Peace Corps volunteer in Paraguay where she will use her fluency in Spanish as an environmental educator.

Kathleen Sinnott ’12 will be a senior at Susquehanna University and will be interning with Vault Communications, a PR firm in Plymouth Meeting, this summer.

Shannon Alexander ‘13 was crowned Philadelphia Mary Dungloe 2015 at the Commodore Barry Club “The Irish Center” on November 30, 2014. Shannon succeeded Kelly Devine ’08, the Philadelphia Mary Dungloe 2014.

Shannon competed in Dungloe, County Donegal, in July 2015 at the 48th annual pageant, part of a week-long festival, which draws women of Irish descent from all over the world.

It will be the first trip to Ireland for Shannon, whose grandmother and grandfather were born in Donegal and in Galway respectively.

Are you the girl...?

Are you the girl who organizes the get-togethers, 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 Alumnae Class Agent Chair Katie Ailtmar ‘03 at ailtmark2@gmail.com or Alumnae Director Karen Price Benson ’79 at kbenson@gmahs.org or (215) 646-8815, ext. 328. We hope you’ll join us!

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. Please contact the Alumnae Director or a Board Member for more information.

Alumnae Board 2015-16

Shannon Alexander ‘13, Philadelphia Mary Dungloe 2015 (right) with Kelly Devine ’08, Philadelphia Mary Dungloe 2014.

Andrea Geppert ’05, President Deborah Fox Walsh ’80, Past President Katie Ailtmar ’03, Class Agent Chair Lisa Tierney ’04, Communications Chair Karen Price Benson ’79, Alumnae Director Christina Ernst Ball ’79 Ashley Benson ’07 Bethanne Mascio Connelly ’03 Maureen McGinn Dever ’92 Melva Exner, Esq. ’77 Mary Kate McNulty Gallo ’02 Jennifer Cervone Guarnaccia ’93 Peg Nowak Kreutzer ’91 Shannon Mascio ’05 Kathleen Roeder, M.D. ’60 Grace D'Alessandro Samanns ’78 Emma Thompson ’10 Jennifer Tierney ’09

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

Alumnae Rosemary McCarron Flannery, Esq. ’39,

mother of Mary Flannery ’71 and Kate Flannery ’73, sister of Frances McCarron Harper ’44 (dec.), aunt of Pat Harper Petrozza, M.D. ’70, Sallyanne Harper ’72, Kate Harper Kelly, Esq. ’74 and Beth Harper Briglia ’76 Mary Elizabeth “Betty” Green ‘41 Joan Taber Symcak ‘41

Mercy Family Members James (Jay) Anderson, husband of Gena Recigno Anderson ’80 and father of Holly Anderson ‘12 Robert Bolger, Sr., father of Rose Bolger Binstead ‘78 John W. Brady, father of Mary Brady ’79, Alex Brady Matcham ’90 and grandfather of Stephanie Brady ‘15 Christopher Britt, son of Kathryn McDonald Britt ’43 (dec.), sister of Eileen Britt Milnes ’73, nephew of Eileen McDonald Bolsover ’49, Peggy Campbell McDonald ’49, Pat McDonald Kearns ’54, Deborah Britt ’55 (dec.) and Janet McDonald Williams ‘56

Joseph A. Carona, husband of Carolyn Lacher Carona ‘50 Peter A. Galante, Esq., husband of Frances Sisca Galante ’48 (dec.), father of Linda Galante, Esq. ’72, Lisa Galante, M.D. ’74, Frances Galante ’75 (dec.) and grandfather of Laura Colussi ‘08 Joan Giordano, grandmother of Christa Giordano ’14 and mother-inlaw of Mrs. Debbie Giordano, Gwynedd staff member Joanne Gibbons, mother of Teresa “Dee” Gibbons Lafon ’81, Susan Gibbons Reiss ’83, mother-in-law of Mary Beth Burgoyne Gibbons ’81, aunt of Emily Goepfrich ’11 and Krista Goepfrich ’13 Brian Good, brother of Ann Good ‘06 William Gregory, Sr., father of Lisa Gregory Wolper ‘79 and Kelly Gregory Capobianco ’81, grandfather of Virginia Wolper ‘12 Sr. Josephine Hynes, R.S.M. past faculty

Frances McCarron Harper ’44,

mother of Pat Harper Petrozza, M.D. ’70, Sallyanne Harper ’72, Kate Harper Kelly, Esq. ’74 and Beth Harper Briglia ’76, sister of Rosemary McCarron Flannery, Esq. ’39 (dec.), the aunt of Mary Flannery ’71 and Kate Flannery ’73 Teresa Bodalski Pipe ‘48 Anne Barry Haines ‘49 Beatrice “Bebe” Hennessey Mehagen ‘50 Justine Tunitis McGeehan ‘51 Clarise Clark Smith ‘52 Patricia Ludlam Blaine ‘53

Roger Kirk, father of Jennifer Kirk ’08 and Diana Kirk ‘10 Charles Markward, father of Del Markward, Board of Trustee and grandfather of Cara Markward ‘12 Sean McDowell, father of Shay McDowell ’07 and uncle of Liz McDowell ’02 and Maggie McDowell ’04 Margaret “Peg” Meehan, mother of Janice Meehan Callahan ’65 and Margaret Mary Meehan Arbogast ’68, mother-in-law of Lynn Cairnes Meehan ‘64, and grandmother of Colleen Meehan O’Connor ‘91, Brynn Callahan Hooper ‘93, Katie Arbogast Williamson ‘94, Kerry Callahan Leidal ‘95, Meghan Arbogast Balsamo ‘98 and Maureen Arbogast Balsamo ‘01

James Monastero, father of Lisa Monastero ‘08 Furman “Pud” Nagle, brother of Mary Nagle Bell ’50 and Roseanne Nagle Ziff ‘53

Joanne Taylor Kostos ’54,

sister of Kathryn Taylor Webb ’60 Susan McGonigle Klenk ’67,

sister of Mary Joan McGonigle Hoffman ’59 Alexis McKinney Echols ‘72 Frances Galante ’75,

daughter of Frances Sisca Galante ’48 (dec.), sister of Linda Galante, Esq. ’72 and Lisa Galante, M.D. ’74, aunt of Laura Colussi ’08 Dawn Tropiano Wagner ‘90

Jerry Naples, M.D. husband of Marie (Mitzi) Michel Naples ‘48 Lucy Notora, grandmother of Ann Good ‘06 Joseph Quinn, father of Patty Quinn McAuley ’01, brother of Mary Therese Quinn Powell ’64, Claire Quinn Crum ’66 and Denise Quinn O’Connell ’68 and uncle of Meghan Quinn, Gwynedd faculty member Myrtle Roeder, mother of Kathleen Roeder, M.D. ’60, grandmother of Amy Roeder Wolfe ’92, Katherine Roeder ’92 and great-grandmother of Alicia Roeder ‘14 James Schaffer, husband of Sally Applegate Schaffer ‘50 Caroline Sturm, stepmother of Melissa Sturm ‘99 John Sullivan, husband of Barbara Boyle Sullivan ‘54

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William “Bill” Torpey, brother of Diane Torpey Bach ’77 and Denise Torpey Whelan ‘80 and uncle of Jennifer Bach Reilly ’07

Frank Barbera, Susan Keen ‘07

Carolyn Keen ’10 Memorial 5K Run/Walk

Proceeds benefit the Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School

Saturday, Oct. 3, 2015 Race starts at 9 a.m.

Carolyn Keen ’10 Memorial Scholarship Fund

Registration:

The CK5K 5K Run/Walk welcomes runners and walkers of all levels and ages. The all-terrain course follows the paved and grass paths on the bucolic Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School and adjacent 150-acre university campus. The 5K Run is professionally timed. Awards given for 1st and 2nd place Male and Female Overall, as well as 1st Place Male and Female in seven different divisions: 14 and under, 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59 and 60 and older.

Gwynedd Mercy Academy

Registration begins at 7 a.m. on Race Day

$25 if you register by September 20.

You will receive a CK5K T-Shirt! $30 if you register after September 20 through Race Day. T-Shirts given while supply lasts.

Register online at www.pretzelcitysports.com Details online at www.gmahs.org/ck5k Questions? Call (215) 646-8815, ext. 328 or email kbenson@gmahs.org

High School

Mark your calendars for the 24th Annual

GOLF CLASSIC Whitemarsh Valley Country Club October 19, 2015 GOLF • LUNCH • PRIZES • DINNER • OPEN BAR • AUCTION

Mark your calendars now for another great day on the links. Enjoy the fun, competition and camaraderie while supporting our Mercy girls.

Golf Registration and Lunch Shotgun Start (Scramble Format) Aprés Golf Non-Golfers Welcome Open Bar and Buffet Fabulous Live and Silent Auction

BECOME A SPONSOR! For details, contact Mimi Craig at mcraig@gmahs.org or call (215) 646-8815, ext. 352

Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE PAID LANGHORNE, PA PERMIT NO. 118

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

oPEN hoUSE Sunday, October 11, 2015 12 – 3 pm

”Gwynedd is my first choice!”

Invite friends and family to learn more about us

oPEN hoUSE Sunday, october 11, 2015

ENtRANcE/ ScholARShIP ExAM Saturday, October 24 or Sunday, October 25, 2015 9 am – 12:30 pm

VISItAtIoN DAYS October through December • Open to all 8th grade students

Contact the Admissions Office for more information 215/646-8815 x306

Register online today at

gmahs.org