WINTER 2022
• 60th Anniversary Reflections • Campus News
Connelly Contact
Inside
• Alumnae Updates • Annual Report CONNELLY CONTACT | WINTER ‘22
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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Rotimi Abimbola ’06, Catherine Albornoz ’98, Maureen Appel, Jillian Bastow ’02, Samantha Boccia ’16, Madie Bromiley, Norah Brotons ’23, Jordan Quinn Canter ’08, Renee Carlson ’23, Julie Connelly, Sr. Connie Craig,Karen Craig, Christine Crilley ’22, Dale Cummings, Meghan Everngam ’00, Cece Garner ’15, Alexis Gentile ’23, Meghan George ’24, Sofia Gonzalez ’23, Maureen Grant P’17, P’18, Liz Guevara ’91, Mary Hopkins, Claire Jorgensen ’24, Reese Kim ’23, O’Malley McGinn ’24, Suzi Montes de Oca ’74, Jean Plummer, Elizabeth Rothenberger ’22, Caitlyn Topercer ’22, Faith Uko ’23, Jen Urgo ’88, Pamela Grace von Seelen ’22, Nicola Whitman ’91 CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: Madie Bromiley, Linnea Farnsworth, Stone Photography, Kitty Wayland ’22 EDITORS: Dani DeWitt, Dr. Shannon Gomez, Ben Hatton, Kristen Koehler, Suzi Montes de Oca ’74, Katie Moylan, Zac Petersen, Jennifer Riehl, Gabi Santos, Kelly Sullivan COMMUNICATIONS DEPARTMENT: Madie Bromiley, Ashley Hill, Kristen Koehler
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TABLE OF CONTENTS 4
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By the Numbers
Letter from the Head
Student Contributors
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Campus News
Fa c u l t y News
N e w Fa c u l t y & Staff
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Fa c u l t y & Staff Awards
6 0 Ye a r s of Holy Child
Letter from the Board
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20-21 A n n u a l Re p o r t
Alumnae Council Letter
Alumnae We e k
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Alumnae Spotlight
Alumnae Small Business
Class Notes
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Alumnae M e e t- U p s CONNELLY CONTACT | WINTER ‘22
Class Re p s
In Memoriam 3
By the NUMBERS 6:1 STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO
72% OF STUDENTS PARTICIPATE IN PERFORMING ARTS
100% COLLEGE ACCEPTANCE
15 AVERAGE CLASS SIZE
70% OF STUDENTS PARTICIPATE ON AN ATHLETIC TEAM
350 STUDENT BODY
$2 MILLION IN ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIP
8,800 HOURS OF COMMUNITY SERVICE COMPLETED EACH YEAR
$7.1 MILLION IN SCHOLARSHIPS OFFERED TO RECENT GRADUATES
30 NETWORK SCHOOLS WORLDWIDE
3,000+ ALUMNAE NETWORK
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34 HONORS AND AP COURSES OFFERED
65% OF FACULTY/STAFF WITH ADVANCED DEGREES
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60
years of Holy Child
A Year of Celebration, Reflection, and Tribute For most of us, the New Year is a time of reflection on the last year while welcoming the feeling of hope for the next. In thinking about this past year, among the many challenges that the education sector is faced with today, I find myself especially connected to the past – Holy Child’s history – as we commemorate our 60th Anniversary. Spending time with my thoughts and honoring our founder, Cornelia Connelly, reminds me of the strength of our community and the inspiring ways that we have grown over the past six decades living out our founding Sisters’ Leadership, Mission and Guiding Principles.
I am honored to be part of this momentous year at Holy Child as we celebrate, not only our 60th Anniversary, but also the 175th Anniversary of the Society of the Holy Child Jesus. The Society, which now spans over four continents, continues to live the mission “to rejoice in God’s presence and to help people believe that God lives and acts in them and in our world.” With efforts in educational, spiritual, pastoral, social, and healthcare ministries, the Holy Child Sisters are following Cornelia’s call globally to “To Love and Serve.” I am reminded of these efforts and the historic moments that the founding sisters endured as they embarked on this mission which eventually led to establishing a network of schools, including our very own, Connelly School of the Holy Child. There is no doubt that Holy Child looks different today than it did in 1961, when the Sisters first started a Holy Child School in Potomac, Maryland. Originally led by Sister Helen Doherty (also known as Reverend Mother Celestine) and a sisterhood of three nuns, Holy Child opened its doors with 16 female students at the high school level. In 1989, Holy Child added a middle school and today has an enrollment of 350 students and 95 dedicated faculty and staff. Our alumnae are more than 3,000 strong, and they help guide our growing community and shape the school for future generations. Holy Child has come a long way, and we remain steadfast in our mission to educate and raise wellrounded women of faith and action. As I have said in previous letters, never before has Cornelia Connelly’s instructions for her schools to “meet the wants of the age” been more relevant. Holy Child pushes to be forward thinking and is continually making enhancements to our academic programs, athletic facilities, visual arts spaces, religious and service opportunities, and virtual platforms that allow our students to become the very best versions of themselves. Throughout this issue, we celebrate 60 years of Holy Child! You’ll hear from many different voices – both past and present – but all significant in making Holy Child what it is today. You’ll also notice our “Seven Goals” highlighted within the pages and stories. These principles are what our girls are taught and what our school lives by in order to further the mission of our founding Sisters. I hope you enjoy this walk down memory lane as much as I have. It has been a beautiful reminder to reflect on the past and continue to honor those that came before us. I look forward to seeing what the next 60 years holds for Holy Child! God Bless, Dr. Shannon Gomez Head of School
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Student Contributors Norah Brotons ’23
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Renee Carlson ’23
Christine Crilley ’22
Alexis Gentile ’23
Meghan George ’24
Sofia Gonzalez ’23
Claire Jorgensen ’24
Reese Kim ’23
O’Malley McGinn ’24
Elizabeth Rothenberger ’22
Caitlyn Topercer ’22
Faith Uko ’23
Pamela Grace von Seelen ’22 CONNELLY CONTACT | WINTER ‘22
Campus News Summer Enrichment Program Over the summer, Holy Child offered virtual Summer Enrichment programs such as beginning and advanced Dance, Ceramics, English, Algebra, Geometry, Precalculus, Fitness, Service, College Bootcamp, and resources within our Writing Center and Math Lab.
Tiger Tuesday with Staff & Faculty Friday Our social media highlighted many of our amazing faculty and staff to give our community the opportunity to learn more outside of the classroom! See our Instagram for our features throughout the fall.
Experiential Learning Days Experiential Learning Days provide crosscurricular grade level events that provide a deeper understanding of content and experience. For our first Experiential Learning Day of the year, 9th grade students participated in an on-campus exploration of a “Journey to the Center of the Earth.” Students completed three labs looking at different phenomena associated with Earth’s interior as well as a movie with discussion afterward.
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Student Orientation
First Day of School Our Class of 2022 kicked off the year by decorating the campus PURPLE. They showed off their first-day jerseys and performed a dance presented virtually to the whole community!
Students had the opportunity to get their class schedules, meet their classmates, set up their Surfaces, take their portraits, and tour the campus during Orientation!
Hispanic Heritage Month
Our community celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month with guest speakers and activities. Mr. Dominic hosted a special Salsa Dance Class where students and teachers had fun together while learning new dance moves and the history behind them!
Student Receives Recognition from Congressman Jamie Raskin Senior Marisol M. was recognized by Congressman Jamie Raskin for demonstrating a high level of commitment to service, leadership, and academic excellence. This amazing achievement was in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month as Congressman Raskin recognized Latinx students who contribute greatly to their communities.
Potomac Community Resources’ Outstanding Community Partner Award This year, Dr. Gomez accepted the Potomac Community Resources’ Outstanding Community Partner Award on behalf of our partnership with PCR. Holy Child students have participated in this partnership for the last 25 years and have formed relationships with PCR members through our on-campus parties, programs, and, most recently, virtual community-building events. Thank you for the amazing honor, PCR!
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CAMPUS NEWS Blue/Gold Games
Students showed their blue and gold pride at the annual Blue/Gold Games on the Turf! Students, parents, and faculty all showed up to enjoy a soccer game with the middle school and a powder puff football game between upper school students. Blue took the win for the night but the competition continues throughout the year – who will win?? See our Instagram highlights for more.
Student-Directed Production of Little Women
Upper school students and our Visual and Performing Arts Department put on three exceptional student-directed performances of Little Women. Congratulations to all involved!
Tiger Trot 5K Holy Child celebrated its 11th annual Tiger Trot 5k on campus this year! All members of our community – within Holy Child and beyond – joined together for a great community event on a beautiful Sunday morning in October. Attendees also enjoyed a beautiful Mass on the Turf to wrap up the fun event. See our Instagram highlights for more.
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The Early Honor Roll of Donors kicked-off this year’s Fund for Holy Child. We love to see those signs popping up on campus!
Art Teacher Works on Mural with Students
Middle School Team Building Middle school students helped Holy Child Art Teacher, Mrs. Ott, work on a mural for a local business in downtown Bethesda! Make sure to check it out next time you’re in Bethesda!
Our middle school students and teachers enjoyed a day of team building, leadership, and problem-solving at Terrapin Adventures in the fall!
Founder’s Day Mass
Freshman Retreat
Freshmen enjoyed their retreat with the theme of “Believe. Belong. Become.” Students considered ways to invite God into their high school journey, discern hopes and goals, and come together as a class.
Early Honor Roll of Donors
It was a special day when our community welcomed His Eminence Cardinal Wilton Gregory to celebrate our Founders’ Day Mass and the 175th anniversary of the Society of Holy Child Jesus on October 15th.
Virtual Exchange Program
Holy Child Spanish IV Honors students and 11th grade St. Andrew’s Scots School students in Argentina had their first bilingual virtual exchange in October! St. Andrew’s students introduced themselves in English, and HC students asked and answered questions in Spanish. Students will continue to participate in the virtual exchange program with St. Andrew’s Scots School throughout the 2021-22 school year!
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CAMPUS NEWS Fall Senior Games Seniors on our tennis, field hockey, volleyball, soccer, and crosscountry teams celebrated their senior nights with their families, coaches, and teams.
Admissions Open House
Our Admissions department hosted a wonderful Open House on campus on October 24th. Photo taken that morning by Corinne E. ’22.
Community Time with Msgr. John Enzler Msgr. John Enzler joined us for a Community Time in November to talk about Catholic Social Teaching Theme 1: The Life and Dignity of the Human Person.
Kairos Retreat The junior class enjoyed their Kairos retreat, a beloved overnight retreat meant to strengthen students’ relationship with God, one another, and themselves.
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8th Grade Retreat
The 8th graders enjoyed their retreat, which allowed for community-building, prayer, reflection, and fun!
All Saints Day Mass Today we celebrated All Saints’ Day with a special Mass led by Board member Fr. Stephen Planning, who, in his homily, encouraged our community to remember the “Hall of Fame of Saints” daily through our faith.
MOAS Students participated in the 40th Model Organization of American States, representing Antigua, Barbuda, and Venezuela.
Head of School Dinner On October 20th, we recognized our Head of School award recipients for their dedication and service to our community. Congratulations to Brett MacInnes (P ’08) for receiving The Mother Mary Xavier Award and to Suzi Norris Montes de Oca ’74 (P ’05) for receiving The Ignatia Award. Scan the QR code to read more about the awards and learn more about why our recipients deserve these awards.
Middle School Production of Ma t i lda Jr. The middle school and Visual and Performing Arts department put on two amazing performances of Matilda Jr. in November. Congratulations to all involved!
Mayfield Market Our 2021 Mayfield Market was so wonderful! With 50+ vendors selling a variety of items, there was something for everyone on your Christmas list. Save the date for the 2022 Mayfield Market, coming on November 18-20.
Fathers’ Club Tulip Planting Families spent a Saturday in November planting beautiful tulips on our campus to bloom in time for the spring! Thank you to the Fathers’ Club for organizing this annual event!
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CAMPUS NEWS Thanksgiving Service
Students continued our tradition of collecting non-perishable items to benefit the Father McKenna Center. Students collected over 70 bags and helped distribute turkeys and bags to families in need during the Thanksgiving holiday break.
Holly Ball
Upper school students enjoyed a fun, joyful Holly Ball, a longstanding tradition at Holy Child, under the tent to kick off the Christmas season!
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Deck the Halls! Our Parents’ Association brought Christmas cheer to campus with beautiful festive decorations throughout the school.
Mass of the Immaculate Conception In early December, our community celebrated the Mass of the Immaculate Conception with Fr. Boxie from Howard University.
Christmas Sweater Fun Students and faculty participated in a Christmas sweater contest before break! Congratulations to our winners (pictured here).
Middle School Winter Dance Middle school students and their special guests had fun kicking off the winter season at the annual middle school Winter Dance!
Christmas Toy Drive Our community participated in our annual Christmas toy drive. Students donated to purchase the gifts and volunteered to help wrap and deliver the presents to the students of Sacred Heart School in DC.
Lessons & Carols The last day before Christmas break, our community celebrated the Advent season with our tradition of Lessons and Carols.
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Faculty News
Congrats!
to our faculty and staff on their exciting life events and impressive accomplishments! We are so happy to welcome some new Tigers and congratulate those who fulfilled their goals!
English Teacher Paul Huey-Burns welcomed his first grandchild, baby boy Otto, on September 1st.
Art Teacher Kasey O’Boyle married Tim Ott in Washington, DC, on October 2nd.
Department chairs completed leadership training through Independent School Management.
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Learning Specialist Lisa Sessions welcomed her first grandchild, baby boy Ebi, on November 29th.
Math Teacher Nawil Jama married Perham Gorji in Middleburg, VA, on September 30th. Staff Accountant Ange Api welcomed baby girl Miracle Emmaneulle, on December 27th. Science Teacher and Department Chair Kelly Tomon and Spanish Teacher Andrea Castelluccio completed the Transitioning to Administration course through Independent School Management.
Art Teacher Sonya Payne became a US citizen in December!
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Welcome to Holy Child
Welcome to our newest faculty and staff! Thank you for making our Holy Child community even better!
RAVEN BOUVIER Theatre Tech Teacher
JENNIE CLAIBORNE Head of Diversity
JUSTIN DOMINIC Dance Teacher
DAPHNE FORDHUNTER Junior Staff Accountant
CECE GARNER ’15 Middle School Counselor
MICHELE HARRISON Science Teacher
DAWN HENDERSON English Teacher
MAURA HOFFMAN Math Teacher
RONAJAH HOLMES Athletic Trainer
TERESA HORTIN Executive Assistant to the Heads of Upper School and Middle School
GABBY HUTHOEFER Learning Specialist
KELLY KELLEY ’97 Director of Constituent Engagement
SUSAN KLAUDA Learning Specialist
KRISTEN KOEHLER Head of Communications
BECKY MULHOLLAND Fund for Holy Child Manager
CARYN SOLOMON Learning Specialist
CECI SPRINCKMOLLER Spanish Teacher
STACY STOYANOFF Head of Upper School
KELLY SULLIVAN Executive Assistant to the Head of School
VERONICA VENCE Spanish Teacher
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FACULTY & STAFF AWARDS
District Athletic Director of the Year Congratulations to Jamie Ready, Athletic Director, for receiving the Maryland State Athletic Directors Association’s 2021 District Athletic Director of the Year Award for District 2A. The MSADA District Athletic Director of the Year Award is presented to Athletic Administrators who have made a significant impact on the lives of students and used athletics to achieve progress in the social and cultural environments of the school and the community.
CCHD’s Cardinal Bernardin New Leadership Award Congratulations to Ogechi Akalegbere, Christian Service Coordinator, for receiving the CCHD’s Cardinal Bernardin New Leadership Award. The award recognizes a young adult between ages 18 and 40 “who demonstrates leadership in fighting poverty and injustice in the U.S. through communitybased solutions.”
Read more about this award on our website!
Head of School Ignatia Award
Congratulations to Suzi Norris Montes de Oca ’74 (mother of Krista Montes de Oca Kelly ’05), Director of Development & Alumnae Relations, for receiving the Head of School Ignatia Award in the fall. The Ignatia Award is merited to a Connelly School of the Holy Child member of the community who has furthered the mission of the Society throughout their tenure. Suzi has been serving the Holy Child mission since 1999. Pictured: Suzi Montes de Oca, recipient of the Ignatia Award, and Brett MacInness (father of Hillary MacInness Galey ’08), recipient of the Mother Mary Xavier Award at the Head of School Dinner on October 20th.
Archdiocese of Washington Teachers of the Year Congratulations to our two recipients of the Archdiocese of Washington Teacher of the Year awards! Chrisy Jelen, English Teacher, won the Veteran Teacher of the Year award. Tara Tanasovich, Math Teacher, won the Novice Teacher of the Year award.
Chrisy Jelen CONNELLY CONTACT | WINTER ‘22
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60 ye of Actions
By Sister Connie Craig Society of the Holy Child Jesus
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he Sisters of the Holy Child first arrived in the northwest DC area in 1954. They came to staff Annunciation, a newly opening parish school. For many years, they worked at Annunciation with the assistance of four lay teachers, always with an eye to finding a place for their own high school. That place was ultimately found in Potomac, with two adjoining houses. One house became a convent for the nuns. A smaller one became a library and a couple of classrooms. The original school was completed and ready to open when the first class entered. It contained five classrooms, a science lab, and a cafeteria. There was no gym, but rather a field with high grass and a basketball court. Gym, as it was then called, was basketball every day. When it was too cold outside, they would lay gym mats on the bottom floor of the house and the students would do somersaults. Sixteen girls entered (of which thirteen graduated) and these were the ones who began the traditions. There were class plays, Carol Night, and Prophesies and Predictions in a formal ceremony at the end of the year. On Carol Night, the girls started at the end of the driveway and walked up to the convent singing carols. The nuns were waiting, standing on their upper deck. As the girls sang, the nuns threw pennies. They all joined together in the convent for eggnog and cookies. All students arrived at school in perfect uniform, wearing a bolero jacket. Upon reaching their lockers, they took off the bolero jacket and put on a brown sweater, which they wore through the day. At dismissal, it was back to the locker to return the brown sweater and wear the bolero home. There are many stories of those early years. We marvel at the sixteen girls who entered a brand new school. They really were important in establishing the future traditions of the school. We are grateful for their risk and their contributions in forming the early traditions of Holy Child.
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ears Not Words By Karen Craig Social Studies Teacher I have had the privilege of working on the past three Mission Effectiveness Steering Committees, and most recently, I have been Connelly School of the Holy Child’s representative to the Network Mission Effectiveness Committee. These experiences have been so valuable in understanding the big picture of Holy Child. I wanted to share this with the students, whom I believe sometimes only have a very general understanding of what it means to be a Holy Child school. While they know our Holy Child as well as any of us, the fact that there are dozens of other Network schools with the same Goals and Mission can be overlooked – and I believe that is part of the gift of Mission Effectiveness. That is why I launched a Student
Mission Effectiveness Council this year. SMEC (as it’s affectionately known) is made up of representatives from the sophomore, junior, and senior classes. Students had to apply to be on the Council and, already this year, have presented to a Board of Trustees meeting and led prayer services on the first three Goals: Faith, Community, and Learning. In the following pages, you can see that they have also reflected on what each of the Goals means to them. Others have reached out to interview alumnae about a particular Goal and how that Goal has impacted them after graduation. It is my hope that SMEC will encourage all Holy Child students to feel the connections within our school and within the Network.
“First to bear adversities with endurance— then with willingness—then with joy.” -Cornelia Connelly
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Faith Goal One:
“...as you step on through the muddy streets, love God with your feet; and when your hands toil; and when you teach the children, love God with his little ones.” -Cornelia Connelly
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By Jean Plummer US Campus Minister, 1994-2017 Each year at Holy Child, a display of one particular crèche captivated my heart. Monochromatic and formed from clay, the characters in the scene, from Mary and Joseph to shepherds and magi, all showed facial expressions and gestures that exuded one prevailing characteristic: joy. One of the magi looked as if he would fall off his camel for sheer excitement. What a fitting response to the good news that God chooses to dwell among us!
addressing the challenges of the world” seems natural. After all, if God chooses to be present, then surely God must want to be involved in our lives and in the world we inhabit. And God’s presence in us, in all people, and in all of creation sparks our desire to love one another with reverence and tender, dedicated care for the well-being of all, and especially of the people and places where the need is greatest.
The Society of the Holy Child Jesus lives this spirit in their mission: to rejoice in God’s presence and to help people believe that God lives and acts in them and in our world.
Cornelia Connelly said, “In each place, at all times and in every action...consider God as present within you.” The more we learn to know and love God’s presence in ourselves and in all people, and respond in loving relationship, the more we will discover true joy. This is the heart of Goal One and the Holy Child charism for me.
When we believe or even dare to hope that God lives and acts in us and in our world, then our Goal One call to grow in a “joyous personal relationship with God in
By Alexis Gentile | Class of 2023 Goal One is Faith, meaning to foster a faith commitment that “engenders a joyous, personal relationship with God in addressing the challenges of the world.” I was asked to explain what faith means to me and my Holy Child experience. I have never actually taken the time to think about this. I have attended Catholic school all my life and I have always had a relationship with God. I attend Mass quite regularly, although I have never truly recognized and appreciated the personal relationship that I have with Him. Over the years, I have learned that He doesn’t stop bad things from happening, so don’t question “Why God? Why me?” Instead, use those struggles to strengthen your relationship with God. My faith journey has taught me that your relationship with God is a two-way street, just as any other friendship. Of course, He will always be there, looking over you, and He will always be there to listen. Your relationship only strengthens and grows when you put in more effort than just asking for help when you need it most. I have most definitely done this in the past, most of us have, but being committed to your faith means being committed to God, building a personal relationship with Him, and using that relationship to get through the challenges that life throws at you. CONNELLY CONTACT | WINTER ‘22
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Goal One: Faith By Rotimi Abimbola | Class of 2006
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In each place, at all times and in every action... consider God as present within you.”
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- Cornelia Connelly As I reflect upon my spiritual growth and experience while I was at Holy Child, I cherish the moments of worship, fellowship, study, and the constant emphasis on seeking God in all things and at all times. I am grateful to God for the opportunity to be raised and nurtured in a Christian home and for the early knowledge I received about Christ and His love for me. When I came to Holy Child for high school, I had a peace and joy in my spirit about learning in an environment that encouraged me to love and know Christ more. No matter how busy or stressful my days were, I enjoyed and looked forward to the opportunities for fellowship with the Lord and to hear the word of God. I remember there would be moments where I was troubled about a situation or anxious about an upcoming event. As soon as we began singing during Mass or praying during Religion class, I would sense the peace and presence of God. What I realize now is that the presence of the Lord was and is always with us. I can confidently say that the presence of God brought joy, strength, and hope even on the most challenging days. I think back on the times I was given the opportunity to read scripture during Mass. Singing “Come to Living Stone” with so much joy and full of the spirit of God during Mass. Loudly replying to Father Austin’s opening greeting, “God is Good. All the Time. All the Time, God is Good.” Serving at Martha’s Table and on McKenna’s Wagon. The intense debates and discussions surrounding current world events during Religion class. The sweet fellowship and friendships I created during Foundations class. I am now more conscious and aware of the powerful presence of God that was present during my time at Holy Child. In Psalm 16:11, the Psalmist confidently says of the Lord, “you will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” The presence of God has been and will always be with the Holy Child community. In spite of the many challenges in our world today, God’s presence brings light, joy, peace, and hope.
Interview: Caitlyn Topercer ‘22 interviewed current teacher and Holy Child alumna Jen Urgo ‘88 to learn what Goal One means to her and how Holy Child has fostered her faith.
What does faith mean to you and what role does it play in your life? Faith, to me, means trust in God, trust He is always there for me and that He has a plan for me. Faith plays a big role in my life. I have gone through some challenging times where I turned to my faith to get me through. I strongly believe my faith guided me to the wonderful place I am now. How did your time at Holy Child allow you to grow in your personal faith? My time at Holy Child fostered my growth in my faith. All my Religion classes were enlightening, and the teachers made learning about Religion so interesting. As a student at Holy Child, I loved the service aspect. My experiences helped me grow and realize how much I enjoy helping others in need. How has your faith grown since your time at Holy Child? Through experiences, I have realized that having faith in God is essential. Since attending Holy Child, I got a job as the middle school religion teacher 4.5 years ago. Being back at my alma mater and educating young ladies every day about the importance of Catholicism in their lives is so fulfilling. I couldn’t dream of a better job!
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Goal Two:
Community “I’m a cosmopolitan, the whole world is my country and heaven is my home.” -Cornelia Connelly
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Goal Two: Community
By Dale Cummings MS Campus Minister, 1996-2012 Holy Child schools live, learn, and worship as a dynamic community. As I reflect on Goal Two and how it played out in my time at Holy Child, I remember some of the programs that brought the students, faculty, staff, and administration together. Some examples of this were:
• Weekly prayer blocks— the students and I planned and participated together, sharing our joys and concerns. I love that they would pray for one another’s families, friends, the sick and the dying, peace in the world, and of course, for themselves.
• Liturgies— all took part to plan and worship the
liturgies. I loved that non-Catholics were invited to receive a blessing at Communion time.
• Homeroom in the gym— where we celebrated on a
weekly basis the accomplishments of the students and faculty.
• Retreats— planned by the seniors for all the students
to reflect on their spiritual gifts. During the 8th grade retreat, the middle school students would create a beautiful banner that would hang in the chapel during their closing liturgy.
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Holy Child helped in our wider community. The students and I visited Martha’s Table in Washington, DC. They brought sandwiches they had made, they helped organize the sandwiches that would be delivered to McKenna’s Wagon and distributed to those experiencing homeless. While they were visiting Martha’s Table, the students would also help in the nursery school. I loved taking a group of students (Service Buddies) on a weekly basis to the Manor Care Nursing Home and to Victory Terrace, an elderly community in Potomac, MD. The students would plan activities like playing games, singing, dancing for and with the elderly, creating arts and crafts, laughing and telling jokes. They also decided to create a beautiful quilt that still hangs in Victory Terrace. “Be yourself, only make that self all God wants it to be.” This was the quote from Cornelia Connelly that the 8th graders chose as their theme for the 2008-2009 school year. The students reflected on this quote during their school year, and they were attentive to living out just who God wanted them to be. I loved my 16 years at Holy Child. It is my sincere hope that the Holy Child community will continue to live by Cornelia Connelly’s quote, “Be yourself, only make that self all God wants it to be.”
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By Christine Crilley | Class of 2022 As I reflect on the community at Holy Child, I can recall certain events where I have felt overwhelmingly welcomed by the students and teachers. These include each Mass where all students gather to sing and pray, every retreat where I built lasting bonds with my classmates, and all sports games where students and faculty gather to cheer on our athletes. A community is a safety net, a place where you feel heard and respected. At Holy Child, each individual plays a crucial and unique role that builds the community that makes the school so special.
Interview: Claire Jorgensen ’24 interviewed alumna and Holy Child Middle School Counselor, Cece Garner ’15, about how the Holy Child community has carried on throughout her life. How has Holy Child impacted you after graduation? Academically, I felt that Holy Child prepared me for the rigor of the College of the Holy Cross and equipped me with the skills needed to succeed. Specifically, I remember my freshman year of college: my English professor was shocked at how well I could write a thesis and structure an essay. Holy Child also provided a network of support, including both peers and adults. Holy Child has always felt like a home and a place where I can return (and I did, as soon as I could!). How do you stay in touch with other alumnae? My high school group chat is still very active! Although we live up and down the East Coast, we try to get together as often as possible. I am involved in the Alumnae Council and serve as a class representative for the Class of 2015. I love that I get to know alums from various years who share the same passion for Holy Child. What was your favorite Holy Child tradition? My favorite Holy Child tradition is definitely Spirit Week. It was always so exciting to work with the whole grade on coming up with themes and costumes. I remember my junior year, we did “Color Day” as our group day costume. While I don’t think we won many points for this, it was hilarious to dress up as teachers and as students from other grades. How has Goal Two impacted you personally? The Holy Child community has been fundamental to my individual growth. Since graduating, I have continued to seek out similar, tight-knit communities. In my opinion, one of Holy Child’s greatest strengths is the unconditional support provided by teachers, coaches, and administrators. This support continued throughout my time in college; I knew the Holy Child community was always behind me, and I could turn to previous teachers for advice and guidance long after graduation. In coming back to HC as a faculty member, my goal is to cultivate and continue for my students the same sense of community I experienced.
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Goal Three:
Curriculum
“Remember that it is not sufficient to have begun well; you must also persevere with courage and finish with resolution.” -Cornelia Connelly 22
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By Mary Hopkins Assistant Head of School 1993-2017 The first time I read The Book of the Order of Studies I was astounded by its progressiveness. This document, written in 1863 by Cornelia Connelly, details her blueprint for the curriculum for her new school. Perhaps because she was a mother herself, Connelly exhibits in this directive a commitment not just to education, but to the personal development of each individual student in her care. She emphasized that subjects taught at her school must “meet the wants of the age” (Constitutions of the Society of the Holy Child Jesus, 1887) to prepare students for fulfillment and success as adults. As such, she developed a curriculum that insisted that students speak French at recess so they understood its real world usefulness, study art so that students learned the power of observation, produce plays so that students experienced the essential nature of group work and cooperation, and hold impromptu dance parties (still a favorite at Holy Child schools today) so that students experienced the joy of being together in community. Over 150 years later, Holy Child schools still publish a Book of Studies each year, detailing curriculum that responds to the needs of the students as they prepare for college and beyond. Following the example of Cornelia Connelly, school administration and faculty imbue lessons with real world usefulness, creativity, challenge, and always, a splash of joy. My 24 years as a faculty member and administrator at Holy Child were formative in my career as an educator. During my time at the school, I was encouraged to explore and create. A robust professional development fund allowed me to continue to learn myself, so that in turn I could inspire my students. It was a trip to Richmond in 2015 to a National Coalition of Girls Schools Conference that introduced me to the idea that careful design of a school environment could enhance student learning. It was through lessons learned there and at the Harvard School of Education that I helped develop the Innovate the Space initiative at Holy Child, allowing teachers to have a role in creating their classroom environment to better serve their students. This program is but one example of how Holy Child has continued the work started so many years ago by Cornelia Connelly. Connelly herself was committed to having her schools feel like “home” to her students, convinced that, when students feel comfortable, they respond to challenges more eagerly. By keeping students’ needs first, Holy Child demonstrates a true commitment to supporting their growth. As a parent of an alumna, I am so proud of the work I see Holy Child graduates doing in the world. They are doctors, mothers, teachers, wives, social workers, entrepreneurs, politicians, researchers, and lawyers. A quick glance through Alumnae Notes demonstrates how they challenge the status quo and work to devise solutions to difficulties they see in the world. Thanks to innovative curriculum design, they are creative and compassionate women who continue the legacy of Cornelia Connelly.
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Goal Three: Curriculum By Elizabeth Rothenberger | Class of 2022 Learning at Holy Child means expanding my knowledge and curiosity. When I learn, I create a relationship with my teachers where I ask questions and promote discussion. My teachers support me, either making sure I understand a topic in the classroom, or checking up about a grade in a class in which I may be struggling. Learning gives me opportunities to become the best version of myself. It allows me to grow and improve while discovering my strengths, weaknesses, and interests. Holy Child has helped me appreciate learning and grow to love it.
Interview: Faith Uko ‘23 interviewed alumna Jillian Bastow ‘02 about her Holy Child education and what advice she has for current students. How has having an education at Holy Child impacted you? My time at Holy Child continues to both shape and guide me in many ways. At Holy Child, I felt at home, but I also felt challenged and known. I loved going to school every day to be with friends and practice for athletics, but also to see what we would be doing in our classes. I now see as an adult and an educator the work and thought which went into each and every one of those classes. Working in groups, demonstrating our knowledge in creative, thoughtful ways, and thinking critically. Watching a telenovela in Spanish class to practice our vocabulary or writing raps to define symbolic language, we were always doing something to push our knowledge and understanding. This lesson, that learning can be at once challenging and interactive, is one which has guided my own philosophy and career in education. Another huge impact Holy Child had on me as an educator is a Cornelia Connelly quote which I use in my signature block, “Trust the children and never let your confidence waiver; confidence begets confidence.” She was a woman ahead of her time, and she was onto something special. Was there someone, faculty or staff, who contributed to your learning experience at Holy Child? Mrs. Tobey was my honors English teacher, AP Language teacher and homeroom advisor for all four years. The lessons I learned from her are still fresh in my mind, 24
and I still use them today in my professional life. She had a quiet but firm and consistent confidence in me and always encouraged me to voice my opinions (while citing evidence, of course). Mrs. Tobey inspired a love of literature in me, a love which led me to teach English for many years. Mr. Woodard was my AP U.S. History teacher and I remember his class being lively and exciting. We did so many challenging but interactive assignments. We had to create a board game to explain Hamilton’s bank plans and secondly, we visited the National Archives to find primary sources for the documentaries we produced. Mr. Woodard and Mrs. Tobey sparked in me the idea of thinking critically; that learning is not stagnant but everchanging; and that learning is ongoing. What advice would you give to girls currently at or coming to Holy Child? Try everything! Be involved! I can point to an experience or an interaction at Holy Child that made me appreciate, or recognize, or understand most aspects of my adult life. A Holy Child education does not stop at graduation because the knowledge, tools, and confidence gained will stay with you through your adult life. When I come back to campus, I always feel a certain happiness and peace, and I think that says it all.
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Justice Goal Four:
“Give me, O Lord, a love full of action.” -Cornelia Connelly CONNELLY CONTACT | WINTER ‘22
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Goal Four: Justice
“ Actions, not Words. “
-Cornelia Connelly
By Maureen Appel Headmistress, 1994-2014
During the 60th anniversary year of Connelly School of the Holy Child, I am reminded of the many ways the school exemplified justice, peace, and compassion in both small and large ways. Holy Child students learn early on about the importance of helping others. A Holy Child student’s lifelong commitment to social responsibility is professed by the school’s founder Cornelia Connelly’s most famous quote, “Actions, not Words.” During my 20 years at Holy Child, I witnessed how both the faculty and students exhibited this commitment in the local community and on a global basis. Middle School Service Buddies continued the tradition of collecting food for Thanksgiving bags that were delivered to McKenna’s Wagon for distribution to families experiencing homelessness. One of the oldest clubs at Holy Child, Best Buddies hosted social events, such as the annual Halloween Costume Party and Winter Beach Party for children with intellectual and developmental differences.
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It always warmed my heart to witness alumnae return to campus to share their stories about the impact Holy Child had on them and to encourage students’ participation in service activities. One example is when alumna Wooly Devine ’79, her daughter Becky Ward ’14, and students Annie ’15 and Maggie ’13 Donatelli and their families traveled to Jamaica in February of 2011 on a homebuilding mission trip. Another is alumna Christie Anne Short ’96, whose work with impoverished Haitian children spurred the middle school students into action to help her with the “Butterflies for Haiti” project. The girls with their butterfly posters rallied their friends to collect toiletries and clothing for the children in Haiti. The Holy Child community has always been a joyful, caring environment where students, faculty, and staff model the principles of justice, peace, and compassion in their daily lives. It was a blessing and a privilege to have served as Head of School.
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By Samantha Boccia | Class of 2016 Holy Child schools work for Christian principles of justice, peace, and compassion in every facet of life. In fulfilling this goal, Holy Child inspired me and all its students to pursue a life committed to social responsibility manifested through “Actions, not Words.” This motto transformed into a springboard for action when I started volunteering with the Georgetown University Prisons and Justice Initiative as an undergraduate. Through this program, I visited and learned alongside residents of the DC jail every week. While this experience exposed me to shocking material about the U.S. prison system, it more poignantly opened my eyes to the incredibly valuable people residing inside our prisons. These individuals are living testaments to the tragedy of mass incarceration, who treated me with the utmost respect and care, demonstrated rehabilitation, and deserved a second chance at freedom. Galvanized by the motto ingrained in me at Holy Child, I felt compelled to not only speak out in support of criminal justice reform, but also to dedicate my life’s work to it. As a volunteer with the Frederick Douglass Project for Justice, I engage in conversations with residents of jails and prisons across the U.S. to inspire mutual compassion and empathy and spark personal and systemic transformation. With the Vera Institute of Justice’s Unlocking Potential Initiative, I also work to provide high-quality postsecondary education to prisoners by managing aspects of Vera’s accreditation projects. Studies show the transformative power of postsecondary education for prisoners, their loved ones, and their communities. Participation in postsecondary education decreases violence in prisons, increases post-release employability and earnings, and reduces recidivism. This ultimately enhances public safety, reduces criminal legal system expenditure, and encourages economic growth. In Matthew 25:37-40, the righteous ask Jesus, “When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?” and the Lord replies, “Truly, I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” As the ultimate embodiment of compassion, Jesus calls us to serve the most vulnerable among us: prisoners. Motivated by Holy Child’s call to “Actions, not Words” and Cornelia Connelly’s example to “not hide the gifts God has given, but use them in His service,” my work encourages a compassionate criminal justice system that honors the humanity of prisoners, whom we should love with the same unconditional fervor with which God loves each of us.
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Interview: Norah Brotons ’23 interviewed alumna Nicola Whitman ’91 about how Holy Child defined Justice for her and how it still plays an important role in her life today. What was your interpretation of Justice and how has it changed since you graduated Holy Child? I have always believed that representation is key to justice. This means diversity in all aspects of our judicial system including, for example, law enforcement, judges, prosecutors, and defense attorneys. Since Holy Child, I have a greater appreciation of the importance of diversity and inclusion among legislators, their staffers, and lobbyists, as well. It is just as important to have representation among those making laws and impacting their development. Do you use what you have learned about Justice in your everyday life? I have been a big proponent of diversifying the lobbying and legal profession. It matters when there are diverse voices at the table. Was there a particular moment where you witnessed injustice? How did you respond? In the professional context, it is important to speak up when someone is being treated differently based on their race and/or gender. This is particularly important when one is in a supervisor role. Do you have any advice for the current students (or other alumnae) of Holy Child about how they can act justly in the real world outside of Holy Child? Each of you has a voice that can and should be used to speak up against injustice in any form. You are all role models and can lead by example in how you live your lives, interact with others, or advocate on behalf of those whose voices might be temporarily muted.
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Goal Five:
Dignity “Trust the children and never let your confidence in them be easily shaken. Confidence begets confidence.” -Cornelia Connelly 28
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By Catherine Albornoz ‘98 Head of Mission & Campus Minister Holy Child Network’s Goal Five is Dignity – to create a learning climate based on trust and reverence for the dignity and uniqueness of each person. From my perspective as both a Holy Child alumna and now in my role as Head of Mission & Campus Minister this has been my experience. Our school values each member; teachers treat students with respect and honor, really knowing each individual and her strengths and gifts well. Students value each classmate, her background and experiences, learning style, musical, artistic, academic and athletic gifts, and how they contribute to the community. I witness students celebrating college acceptances, sports victories, family happenings, and play try-outs together. I also see how students are aware of the challenges and setbacks of those around them and offer support. These, I believe, are examples where they honor each others’ dignity and show their support. This year, in my new role as Head of Mission, the word dignity has taken on added meaning for my work, as we have framed our Catholic Mission and the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion work of the school around the uniting theme, “Human Dignity First and for Everyone,” as a guiding principle. We strive, as leaders, to continue to advance Holy Child as an institution that welcomes each of our community members in a way that allows all to bring their true, authentic selves to school every day to learn and grow together, and that embraces our racial, ethnic, religious, and neurodiversity, among others, fully. Holy Child has had successes and challenges over the years, and we are committed to continual growth and improvement around this goal of dignity. Each person is created in God’s image and likeness, and we need to ensure dignity for all, from our hallways to those we serve and partner with for our many community service efforts. This Goal, along with the other six, helps guide our practice so that Holy Child can be the place we strive for it to be for all of our community members.
By Meghan George | Class of 2024 The Goal that I will be reflecting on is Goal Five: Dignity. Holy Child creates a learning environment based on trust and reverence for the dignity and uniqueness of each person. Holy Child has helped me to discover my own uniqueness and gifts. Furthermore, Holy Child uncovers and celebrates each person’s individual gifts and accepts us for who we are. I have grown to respect myself and my worth. I think dignity means being respected and accepted for who you are, as well as respecting yourself. This means to be kind, respectful, and encouraging to everyone. We should treat others the way we would want to be treated. Furthermore, respect and dignity build trust, comfort, and happiness. Be someone who makes everyone feel worthy, respected, and important. CONNELLY CONTACT | WINTER ‘22
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Goal Five: Dignity
Interview: O’Malley McGinn ’24 interviewed alumna Liz Guevara ’91 to learn about what Goal Five, Dignity, means to her and how dignity plays a role in her everyday life. The Fifth Goal of the seven Goals of the Holy Child: Dignity. This Goal pledges to “create a learning climate based on trust and reverence for the dignity and uniqueness of each person.” Are there any traditions or memories that are recalled as you read this definition? If so, what are they? Did each of the 43 girls in our class feel like they had dignity, trust, and an ability to be her full self while at Holy Child? Maybe each girl didn’t find that sense of belonging in the holistic class. However, I would not doubt that each girl found it within the more trusted circles of friendships that emerged within our class. That said, underlying the many insecurities and self-discovery process that each girl went through over our four years together, there still was a sense of sisterhood and respect that bonded us. It was very evident during our overnight senior retreat weekend. That senior retreat was special, as it was one of the few times I can remember each member of the class feeling dignity and trust as a whole, and where each person’s unique self was able to emerge and be embraced. Holy Child persistently attempts to do their best in including people of all interests, beliefs, etc. How did this effort allow you to flourish in the real world in accordance with those with interests and beliefs differing from your own? The World Religions class was a favorite of mine and one of the most impressionable courses I had the opportunity to take at Holy Child. It provided understanding of the historic roots of our Faith, but also offered perspective on other religions – and it made it clear that people of all religions share a commonality in striving for a higher way of being – call it being more Godlike, more holy, or more Zen. The teachings from that class really helped me to assimilate into a large non-denominational university, to find belonging in a sorority that was known to be dominantly a Jewish sisterhood, to be open to dating outside of the faith, and to eventually finding my way in a career that is focused on inclusion and belonging. Learning to be open, for me, is centered in a place of being spiritually centered on trust in God and to be receptive to different perspectives and ways of operating. Having a strong educational foundation that is rooted in Christ’s teachings of acceptance, humility, forgiveness, and love, has enabled me to have the empathy and openness to create meaningful relationships in my personal and professional life. The acceptance of uniqueness at Holy Child not only allows for inclusivity, but also for individuals to accept what makes them unique. How did your time at Holy Child allow for the dignity and self-worth held within yourself to grow? I do think our teachers challenged us to delve deep within ourselves, to work outside of our comfort zone and to bring forth our unique thoughts on paper, in writing, projects, or in art. Having a good ratio of teachers to students also helped to build rapport and get individualized learning and support. Additionally, I was a recipient of financial support from Holy Child, which actually motivated me to get involved in as much as I could – putting me in a position to be a part of building belonging and getting involved with a diverse set of experiences. I participated in every club, I played my flute in masses and volunteered to be a lector, I played sports and participated in the school plays, I was editor-in-chief of our yearbook (learning what to do along the way), I joined MOAS and activities that could allow me to interact with other schools, and I worked hard to earn good grades and get into a great college. I did it all to feel worthy and to show gratitude for the financial support provided to remain at Holy Child. In a way, I felt lost in that persona because my actions were more rooted in what I thought I needed to do rather than what I really wanted to do. I maintained the approach of doing as much as I could in college but changed my motivational approach – choosing based on my personal interests instead of what I thought others expected of me. I was still focused on building a path that was gratifying through a sense of giving – of tapping into the gifts God gave me to position myself to be more helpful to others and to find ways to lift others up along the way. Professionally, I get to focus on building inclusive and diverse workforce environments, to shape talent development, and create social impact. My work is centered on building trust, supportive relationships, creating meaningful work opportunities and a culture of belonging in the workplace. I continue to bring forth the lessons from Holy Child in my work every day.
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Goal Six:
Personal Growth “Be yourself but make that self just what Our Lord wants it to be.” -Cornelia Connelly CONNELLY CONTACT | WINTER ‘22
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“
Goal Six: Personal Growth
I have seen our students pick each other up, celebrate the everyday small victories with each other, and grow in faith with each other.
“
-Julie Connelly
By Julie Connelly Associate Director of Development & Special Assistant to the Head of School As I reflect on my eight years at Holy Child, I have witnessed Goal Six lived out by all who participate in the life of the school. I have the unique perspective of someone who went from delivering the mission in my previous role as Dean of Students to supporting the mission in my current role as Associate Director of Development. To me, this is one of our most important goals to fulfill.
As the Dean of Students, I was able to experience this goal firsthand in my relationship with our students, faculty, and staff. This goal not only speaks to academic growth, but also to the personal growth for all members of our community. The activities that students participate in as part of Student Life, such as athletics, the arts, clubs or student government, are important to our students’ development. There are important lessons to be gained on the field or stage, during Spirit Week or Blue/ Gold. Perhaps the most impactful way I have witnessed this goal come to life is through the relationships between our students, faculty, and staff. I have seen
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students grow to fulfill their potential, with faculty and staff supporting and guiding them. I have seen my colleagues grow in their profession, learning how to teach virtually, and leaning on each other for support. I have seen our college counselors spend countless hours with our students to ensure they have all the support they need to take that next step. I have seen our counselors spend time with our students, supporting their social and emotional well-being. And finally, I have seen our students pick each other up, celebrate the everyday small victories, and grow in faith with each other. As the Associate Director of Development, I have learned how integral our team is in supporting the mission of the school. We share the commitment to personal growth of all members of the school. It is our goal to support that growth by finding opportunities to invest in the current and future needs of our students, faculty, and staff, and the greater Holy Child family makes that possible. The continued generosity of our community enables us to fulfill our mission and support the personal growth of all who participate in the life of the school.
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By Pamela Grace von Seelen | Class of 2024 I entered Holy Child as a timid, broken, and dependent fourteen year-old. Now, as a senior, when I reflect on my last four years, it is undeniable that I am an entirely different person in the best way possible; now, at 18, I am a confident, secure, and innovative young woman. My personal growth journey has been chaotic and long, but as I start to draw nearer to my close of high school, it is evident how far I have come and how much I have grown. Personal Growth is one of the Seven Goals that Holy Child fosters here in our community. I am grateful for everything Holy Child has taught me, and I don’t just mean in the academic sense. Over the past four years, I have learned more about myself and my faith, and I have matured greatly. Through Holy Child retreats, I have fostered a close relationship with God. When I first started at Holy Child, I did not consider myself all that religious, and I did not prioritize my faith. But as I have gotten older, I have finally started to understand God and grow closer with Him and truly love Him as I know He loves me. For this, I can thank the retreats I did every year at Holy Child. While my relationship has grown with God, this has also translated into my emotional and mental growth. I no longer waste time on petty and unnecessary drama, and I have learned to focus my energies on academics and athletics. Over the years, I have become more of an intellectual thinker, which has paid off in my studies, and I have devoted myself to my sports, growing as an athlete. I have seen the progress, maturity, and growth as I hear back from colleges this year. I am grateful to Holy Child for not only encouraging and promoting this growth, but also because I can say that I am proud of the woman I have become.
Interview: Reese Kim ’23 interviewed alumna Jordan Quinn Canter ’08 about what Goal Six means to her and how she has continued to grow since her time at Holy Child. In what ways has Holy Child helped you grow? There are so many examples I can look back on that remind me how Holy Child has helped shape who I am as a person. I think for young women, lack of confidence and self doubt can be an ongoing struggle. I am so grateful for the environment Holy Child has created – one that builds confidence, prioritizes faith, and teaches leadership skills. Most importantly, Holy Child brought me lifelong friendships. My best friends from the 7th grade are my best friends today and have been with me through every milestone in my life. How do you see the effects of that in your life after graduating? The impact Holy Child has had on my life only grows more apparent with time. While my experience at Holy Child from 6th to 12th grade was overwhelmingly positive, each new challenge and opportunity in my life connects back to my time at Holy Child. I specifically recall starting college and entering my first semester as a freshman. I sat in the front, I did not hesitate to raise my hand, I sought public speaking opportunities, and I built genuine relationships with my professors. This was not the norm across my class. I developed these characteristics at Holy Child, where the community is built to facilitate confidence in young women. These qualities served me through four years as a college athlete and today in my professional career. How did your relationships at Holy Child with other students and teachers encourage you to grow to your fullest potential? The list goes on and on. I owe a tremendous amount of thanks to my teachers and coaches at Holy Child who pushed me out of my comfort zone time and time again. In 7th grade, my teacher encouraged me to try out for lacrosse despite having never played. My fondest memories at Holy Child were on the lacrosse field. Without that push from my teachers and coaches, I may have never pursued the sport. That experience led me to Franklin & Marshall College where I played four years of Division III lacrosse and was selected as captain my senior year. From an education perspective, without my experience taking Government 101 with Ms. Kenny, I may not have found my passion for politics and the US government. That very class at Holy Child drove me to major in Political Science at Franklin & Marshall and build a career in Government Relations. These are just two examples of teachers and coaches pushing me to reach my full potential and directly impacting significant decisions in my life. How did you feel supported by Holy Child? I always felt supported by Holy Child, as a student and now as an alumna. I think what has become most apparent to me is that to be a successful leader, you must be willing to take risks. Holy Child created a supportive environment for me to take those risks and not fear change. This is a lesson that has served me well over the years. At the core of the Holy Child community is faith; this foundation has been instrumental to me during challenging times in life. I always have the stability of my faith, which is a principle of the Holy Child community. As a member of Holy Child’s Alumnae Council, I hope to provide that same support to the Holy Child community.
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Future Goal Seven:
“You must not hide the gifts God has given, but use them in His service.” -Cornelia Connelly 34
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By Maureen Grant ’87, P’17, P’18 Trustee Goal Seven of the Holy Child Mission: Future, reads “to ensure the continuation and growth of the Holy Child mission and philosophy in the school.” While I reflect on this goal, I do so from several perspectives. As a member of the Board of Trustees, I am dedicated to this mission. A Holy Child education goes well beyond an academic experience. As defined in the Mission Statement of the school, a Holy Child education incorporates a commitment to intellectual, spiritual, artistic, physical and social development of young women. Also referenced, Holy Child values the uniqueness of each individual. I believe these are the core values of the school and of a Holy Child education. These values, and the philosophy behind them, continue to elevate Holy Child to the forefront of middle and upper school education now and will do so well into the future.
the rigorous pursuit of knowledge, and the passion to explore new interests successfully allow them to be critical thinkers and meaningful and long-lasting contributing members to society. In addition, Holy Child imparts a tradition of fostering empathy, encouraging self-reflection, and ultimately, fostering a community whereby treating one another with kindness, regardless of race, gender, and socioeconomic status, is imperative. This is something I am especially proud of with regards to a Holy Child legacy. In part thanks to a Holy Child education, my daughters (Caitlin ‘17, Molly ‘18) and I possess a keen ability to selfadvocate and a strong lifelong commitment to learning and personal growth, all with the goal of bettering society through our thoughtful actions. We strive to live out the Cornelia Connelly motto of “Actions, not Words,” and by doing so, carry forward the Holy Child mission.
As a proud parent of two Holy Child graduates, I am grateful to Holy Child for providing them with a wellrounded educational and social experience that will guide them throughout their lives. The academic and learning skills provided to them, such as the ability to comprehensively debate from both sides of a problem,
As a Holy Child alumna, I often reflect on the legacy of Holy Child. I would like to see the same opportunities provided to me and my daughters carried forward and available to young women for generations to come. I take to heart the mission of the school and am grateful, proud, and excited for the opportunities each and every future graduate will have as they progress forward in their lives.
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Goal Seven: Future
Interview: Sofia Gonzalez ’23 interviewed alumna Meghan Everngam ’00 about how her time at Holy Child prepared her for her future and how she continues to live “Actions, not Words.” How do you use “Actions, not Words” in your everyday life? It is important to not only read and speak the word of the Lord but to also demonstrate His word in our daily actions. I believe that the most important way to do this is by showing kindness to others. I try to give back to my community as often as possible and to show kindness to others every day. I’ve had the fortunate opportunity to be able to work with the Washington School for Girls (WSG) by being a member of the WSG Auxiliary Board for the past eight years. I love being able to work with the wonderful students and faculty. Did you feel as if Holy Child prepared you for the next steps in your life after Holy Child? Yes, absolutely, Holy Child helped prepare me for life after graduation. Holy Child has given me a wonderful foundation for life. My Holy Child education, the friendships I made, and the values I learned have all helped me navigate college, my career and everyday life. My time at Holy Child taught me how to have confidence in myself and how to be compassionate to those around me. These skills have given me the tools I need to take on tough situations and persevere during hard times.
By Renee Carlson | Class of 2023 The word “future” has one meaning: a time that has yet to come. But for any different person, it can be seen through a different lens. The Holy Child community has given the students and alumnae positive relationships between students and teachers, providing support through healthy attitudes, behaviors, and emotional health. After all, this is the school’s goal: to prepare students for whatever is next in their lives! Some examples of positive student-teacher relationships that I have witnessed are the kind and honest feedback on my papers and classwork, teachers trying to meet with me during their busy schedules, and teachers making class lessons fun and exciting but still learning the material. This will translate to college and my future career as well. In college I will prioritize introducing myself to all my college professors and taking their feedback. In my career I will be able to focus on my relationships with my coworkers by providing honest and open feedback when necessary without disrespecting anyone’s opinions and getting along with my supervisor, even when they push me to work harder. I constantly stress about school, friendships, and what I would do with my life. Holy Child has provided a caring and supportive environment that I will take in my next steps. Holy Child’s future is bright, and it will bring many generations of new Tigers. In the next 60 years, new Tigers will be born and they will have shared time with their sisters, teachers, and families. This time together will allow each student to grow as a young woman and as a learner. Holy Child is an international network of schools that produces alumnae all over the world. All the graduates share a few things, but most importantly, they share the same joy, community, and the importance of staying connected with God and classmates. We will always have something in common, whether it’s the classes we take or the laughs that we share.
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From the Board Dear Holy Child Community, Thank you. Your support during the 2020-21 fiscal year was record breaking! Despite the challenges that the school has faced from this pandemic, Holy Child and its students have been blessed to feel the love and support of our community. Your generosity with your time, your talents, and your treasure has been a testament to Cornelia Connelly’s motto “Actions, not Words.” Your action ensured that last year, whether in person or hybrid, our students continued to have access to a high-quality education and experience beloved traditions. Your action empowered a faculty and staff that never stopped doing their very best to meet the individual needs of students. Each of your actions combined to reaffirm that when we come together and BELIEVE, as a community, we can achieve anything. We thank you, the community, for your annual contributions, which allow us to continually meet the “wants of the age.” As always, it must be a good partnership. We are particularly grateful for your partnership in a year when COVID added new considerations and additional demands to the financial planning process. I am pleased to report that, together, we raised over $1.3 million dollars in support of Holy Child. Each year, tuition alone does not cover the full cost of educating our students. Unrestricted gifts provide the highest level of financial flexibility for Holy Child, enabling school leadership to make strategic investments in the people and programs that bring the full Holy Child experience to life. In the last year, $900K in unrestricted gifts were donated to the Fund for Holy Child, a 5% increase over the previous fiscal year which allowed us to eventually bring all our students back on campus safely. Our faculty and staff led by example with 100% participation in annual giving, along with 73% of our parents and 18% of our alumnae. To all our parents, alumnae, faculty, staff, past parents, grandparents, and friends who have let us share in their generosity, I offer my sincere thanks. I hope every donor listed in the report senses the immeasurable impact of their generosity. Thank you for inspiring us and joining us in educating women of “Actions, not Words!” With gratitude, Jeanne Shriver Board of Trustees Chair
The complete 2020-21 Annual Report and Honor Roll of Donors can be viewed online by scanning the QR code: 38
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2020-2021
FUND FOR HOLY CHILD Thanks to the generosity of the entire Holy Child community, the 2020-21 Fund for Holy Child was the most successful ever! Annual gifts to this important Fund enable the highest level of financial flexibility for the school and ensure that every student now and in the future experiences the joyous learning that is the Holy Child experience.
2020-2021 EXPENSES
$909,000+ total raised $49,000 more than in 2019-20
19% increase in leadership gifts! (gifts over $1,500)
2020-2021 REVENUE
1006 donors 164 first-time donors!
491 alumnae donors Highest number of alumnae donors!
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From the Alumnae Council Presidents Dear Holy Child Alumnae Community, Happy New Year! None of us expected another year of COVID, yet here we are. As Alumnae Council Presidents, we’ve had the opportunity to watch the school gracefully balance students’ health and safety while working hard to give the girls some normalcy. Through this difficult period in our world, the faculty and staff have been working tirelessly to meet the needs and expectations of the community. As a Council that is heavily event focused, we’ve also faced the challenge of engaging alums in a virtual capacity, which has opened many new doors for us as a community. In 2020, we introduced an app, The Holy Child Network, to better engage and interact with other alums. The goal of this app is to easily keep up with alums as people move, change jobs, or have a life event! The app is growing thanks to more of you, our alumnae, signing up. We need your help spreading the word! The app is not only a directory of alumnae, but it can also serve as a place for mentorship, sharing job opportunities, and a resource to stay informed about Holy Child events! If you’re one of the many alums whose parents are still receiving your mail from Holy Child (yes, we know you!), sign up for the app today and get connected with the alumnae community! In October, we celebrated National Entrepreneurship Month by highlighting several alums who have started their own businesses. We have so many independent, creative, and intelligent leaders to recognize! These women have started businesses like waterless nail salons, catering companies, medical practices, consulting firms, and so many more. Please follow @holychildmd on Instagram to learn more about trailblazing alums in the future! A huge accomplishment for the Council in the fall was hosting our very first State of the School. Being part of the Alumnae Council has given us the opportunity to hear what’s happening at Holy Child, from the day-to-day to the long and short-term goals for the school. We wanted to give everyone a chance to hear these updates directly from school leadership! We loved seeing the questions people submitted in advance and understanding what alums are interested in learning from the school. You can expect to see this event next fall! Mark your calendars! We are so excited to celebrate the alumnae community throughout the week of April 25! The Council is currently working hard to plan a variety of events that will take place both virtually and in person. Don’t worry, Trivia Night is coming back! Throughout the week, we will give special recognition to the milestone reunions of the 2s and 7s. Please keep an eye out for additional communications around Alumnae Week! We can’t thank Mrs. Montes de Oca and all of the Council members enough for their involvement and dedication in creating alumnae events and connections. We are so thankful for the opportunity to represent the amazing women in our community and look forward to more occasions to gather, connect, and celebrate, hopefully, in person in 2022. Warm Regards, Lindsay Edgerley Gleason ’10 & Brynn Mayo Jones ‘ 10 Alumnae Council Co-Presidents lgleason9029@gmail.com brynnmayo@gmail.com
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Alumnae Week 2022
April 25-May 1
Monday, April 25 Dr. Shannon Gomez, Head of School Welcome to Alumnae Week! Tuesday, April 26 Trivia Night! Test your knowledge of random topics and join us to win prizes! Wednesday, April 27 Evening of the Arts! Our students will be showing their favorite artwork, singing in a chorus, and performing a dance routine! Thursday, April 28 It’s Throwback Thursday! We’ll be showing lots of photos from our archives, while you share your photos with us!
Friday, April 29 GIRLS NIGHT OUT for ALL ALUMNAE. In person and on campus! Reconnect with your classmates and perhaps a former teacher, tour the school, and reminisce about your years at Holy Child! Saturday, April 30 GOLDEN YEARS LUNCHEON at 12noon for alumnae who graduated between 1965–1972 in McShain Library! Sunday, May 1 Mass (Time TBD) in the Sr. Connie Craig Chapel and Service Project. All alumnae and their family members are welcome. Actions, not Words.
For more information and to register: holychild.org/alumweek Questions? Contact Suzi Norris Montes de Oca, smontes@holychild.org
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Alumnae Spotlight
Sarah Siciliano Wragge Class of 2000
Sarah Siciliano Wragge ‘00 has turned a personal health crisis into a career. For many years, chronic digestive and health issues plagued her. In her late 20’s, Sarah met with an acupuncturist and holistic nutritionist, and it was a life-changing experience. By changing her diet, the digestive tract issues, ear infections, and swollen joint problems disappeared. Read more about the woman who puts together wellness programs for all types of clients, from new moms to busy executives. Sarah teaches you how to optimize how your body burns fat each day while living a normal social life. Read Sarah’s interview online by scanning the QR code.
Andrea Brunhart Donalty Class of 1989 A high school apprenticeship at the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR) sparked Capt. Andrea Donalty’s interest in a career in military medicine. “Working as a laboratory technician, assisting an Army psychiatrist, Army cardiologist, and a civilian exercise physiologist with their research projects was my introduction to military medicine. I was later drawn to the Navy for the diversity of opportunities that exist on land, on the sea, and in the air. The Navy seemed to have it all!”
Read Andrea’s interview online by scanning the QR code.
Andrea thus began her career in the Navy in 1989 as a Navy Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) midshipman on scholarship for college. She subsequently continued her medical studies under the Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP) and then started her active duty service at Naval Hospital Portsmouth, completing her residency in pediatrics.
Do you know of a Holy Child alumna with an interesting career, service project, or hobby that we should spotlight? Send suggestions to alumnews@holychild.org 42
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Alumnae Small Business
The month of October was Women’s Small Business Month. Over the course of 31 days, alumnae entrepreneurs who live both inside and outside the DMV were showcased. Their common bond - using what they learned at Holy Child to create their successful businesses.
Apple Seeds Antiques Nancie Groff Mackintosh ‘74
Megan Schiattareggia ‘15
Connie Coakley Caulfield ‘82
"My shop offers antiques, vintage finds and decorative items. Located in Adamstown, MD at the foothills of Sugarloaf Mt. just south of the city of Frederick.” Find us on Facebook: Apple Seeds Antiques
"Babe Shade is all about spreading positivity and selfconfidence in a sassy way.” shopbabeshade.com
"Caulfield Provision Company offers hot sauces full of healthy flavor, that compliments your food, not overpowers it.”
CaulfieldProvisionCompany.com
Jenny Chung ‘90
Christine Finch Oleynick ‘80 “Helping families buy, sell and invest in real estate.” christinefincholeynick.com
“Jenny is a partner associate with Domaine and would love to assist you with buying or selling your next home in the DMV.” DOMAINE-GROUP.COM
Cheryl Lynn Boland ‘03 "Doyle Interiors offers a fresh, modern take on traditional style.” doyleinteriors.com
Sarah Novak Nesbitt ‘00 Emily Seay Hayes ‘02 “We are a residential real estate company based in Salt Lake City, UT, and our main focus is helping our clients create wealth through real estate!” emilyhayeshomes.com
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“We are a boutique law firm representing children and families in a variety of matters.” flagfamilylaw.com
Fenella Morriss Cunningham ‘05 "A variety of elegant and preppy, vintage finds for the home!” Instagram @fenellas_finds
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Flavia Scalzitti ‘93 "Cooking classes teaching authentic and traditional Italian recipes” flaviasflavors.com
Alicia Easby-Smith Barton ‘04 "Franklin Floral Design is a full service event floral design business that specializes in creating custom floral décor.”
Sonia Hounsell ‘89 & Joelle Slye Flynn ‘89 "FunkkOFF!® Inc. is a fun lifestyle brand disrupting personal care & beauty industries with multi-patented, innovative on-the-go products!” funkkoff.com
Juliana Slye Valentine ‘88 Heather Crosby ‘93 "GFCS makes healthy eating easier by providing self-paced, online cooking and baking courses.” goodfoodcookingschool.com
"Government Business Results is a Go-To-Market agency that helps technology companies more effectively market and sell to government agencies.” gotogbr.com
Johanna Bayly Howe ‘99 "Howe Interiors a full service interior design firm. I specialize in making homes both livable and refined.” howeinteriors.com
Jennifer Slye Aniskovich ‘83 Samantha Marsh ‘08 "Life and health insurance brokerage finding the coverage you need to protect yourself and your loved ones.”
"Consulting services for nonprofit organizations, including governance, strategic planning, and fund development.” aniskovich.com
facebook.com/ InsuranceInnovationsllc
"A virtual, concierge medical practice specializing in weight loss and management.” lifestylechangesllc.com
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"Lauren Heller Art Consultant is a full service art advisory business.” lhfineartconsultant.com
Tannaz Etebarian Bahnam ’99 Janine Snetter Darby, MD ‘91
Lauren Straus Heller ‘03
"Lost in a City is a lifestyle discovery and experiential platform that lets locals fall in love with their city.” lostinacity.com
Margaret Culotta-Norton ‘71 "I am a general restorative and cosmetic dentist. I treat all ages, from toddlers to seniors in assisted living and nursing homes.” drculottanorton.com CONNELLY CONTACT | WINTER ‘22
Ashley Williams Dunn ‘08
Martine Bernard ‘86 "I design one-of-a-kind, unique tableware, from small condiment vessels and dinner plates to large serving platters and bowls.” younourish.com
"Nuggets of Knowledge provides virtual tutoring and consultation services to students and families in the local DMV area.” nuggetsofknowledgellc.com
Paulina Wright Art
Pamela Burns ‘85 "Pamshops4you is a personal shopping, styling and closet editing company.” Pamshops4you.com
Paulina Hill Wright ‘05 Patsy Lynch ‘71 "Photography — primarily shooting news, editorial, portraits, and weddings.” patsylynchphotography.com
Beth Spencer Collins ‘80 "Gourmet Market specializing in fresh seafood, meats, and prepared foods. Made to order salad, sandwiches & pizzas. ” potomacgrocer.com
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"Creating colorful and happy art to spread hope, love, and joy!” Instagram @paulinawright_art
Elizabeth Stiles McNevin ‘04 "Boutique social media advertising agency; supporting eCommerce small businesses grow using Facebook and Instagram advertising.” socialeconsulting.com
Dani DiPirro ‘01 "Positively Present supports positive personal development through words and illustrations in the form of inspirational books, art, and online content.” positivelypresent.com
Elise Sluger Ravenscroft ‘82 “Spot On Events provides management and production services which achieve our client’s goals.” spotonevents.biz
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Ryann Stefanou ‘03 "Stefanou CPA Group PC provides a wide range of personal and professional tax and business services.” mycpatax.com
Marie Tigani Stiles ‘79
Veruska Veiga ‘97
"We are a dental practice dedicated to extraordinary service and beautiful smiles.” stilesdentistry.com
"We provide non-medical, inhome health care services to aging loved ones.” talemhomecarenorthernvirginia.com
Catherine Nguyen ‘97
Elizabeth Boland ‘01
"At Wild Willett Food, our mission is to create the best high-protein snacks while creating a positive impact on our customers.” wildwillettfood.com
"Full Service Interior Design Firm with a Design Studio in Bethesda, Maryland.” wilsonboland.com
Runs in the family!
On the first day of school the senior class decorated the school in Purple, then greeted and welcomed everyone back to campus. What a special, bittersweet morning it was for our alumnae whose daughters began their last year at Holy Child!
Ginger King Shaw ‘94 and Abigail ‘22 46
Jennifer Bigelow Urgo ‘88 and Ella ‘22
Kathy McCarthy McMahon ‘89 Cathyann Hanley Shreves ‘89 and Molly ‘22 and Peyton ‘22 CONNELLY CONTACT | WINTER ‘22
Class Notes ’67 55th REUNION YEAR It’s time to start planning your April 30th class reunion!
’72 50th REUNION YEAR It’s time to start planning your April 30th class reunion! Mary Ann Mangold Veirs (1) is so excited about the 50th Reunion! She and Kathy Kohler have already made reservations for the class dinner to take place at Holy Child Saturday, April 30 at 6pm. For more information, contact Mary Ann: mmmkv@aol.com and Kathy: kkohler2854@gmail.com.
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At the October 2021 German Shepherd Dog Club of America National Championships in St. Louis, MO, Cynthian Wilhelmy’s dog, Kaleef’s Mercedes, went Futurity Victrix, Best in Futurity, beating all other German Shepherds age 2 years and younger. In the Best of Breed competition for all German Shepherd champions, she earned one of ten Select awards out of 75 entries.
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Suzie Stinson (2) was recently awarded the “2021 NIH Director’s award” from Dr. Frances Collins, National Institutes of Health (NIH) Director, for her part on the SARSCoV-2 BSL-3 Lab Stand-Up Team. Her team set up bio safety level 3 laboratories on the NIH campus to test COVID therapeutics. Suzie is a Senior Contracting Officer and currently Head of the Policy Office for the Office of Acquisitions at NIDA/ NIH. She has been at NIH since 2001. Congratulations, Suzie!
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45th REUNION YEAR It’s time to start planning your April 30th class reunion! Shana Gaultney Elliott wrote, ”Donna Thome (3) and I try to get together 1-2 times a year, usually in Highlands, NC with our husbands. My hubby is Rick and hers is Charley (far right). We enjoy hiking, talking, eating, and reminiscing about our Holy Child days with much fondness. I retired from my dental practice after the COVID crisis and so far am enjoying my life of leisure! Still figuring out what my third act will be!”
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If you happen to be in San Luis Obispo, California, enjoy wine country dining at Patricia Driscoll Koberl’s restaurant, Koberl at Blue. Check out the menu: epkoberl.com
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40th REUNION YEAR
30th REUNION YEAR
It’s time to start planning your April 30th class reunion!
It’s time to start planning your April 30th class reunion!
Maggie Duncan-Augustt (7) is a Realty Specialist at the Federal Highway Administration Headquarters’ Office of Real Estate Services. Her offices provide stewardship and oversight to State Department of Transportation offices as they deliver various highway projects throughout the nation. Maggie had the opportunity to visit fellow classmate Pauline Ottley McFarlin (7) at her very own bakery shop, The Dessert Fork, in Huntsville, AL this past December. Maggie said, “It was so good to see her. We hadn’t seen each other in years. I am so proud of her accomplishments—and her lemon bars were to die for!!” Dr. Suzie Peters and her partner of 11 35th REUNION YEAR years, Dr. Cristy Perdue, got married It’s time to start planning your on 12/31/20. In 2016 they moved April 30th class reunion! from their apartment in downtown Brooklyn, NY to a wonderful beach community called Arverne By the Sea, in Rockaway Beach, Queens, New York. Suzie completed her PhD in developmental cognitive neuroscience in 2017, and her wife Judith Ostronic (6) recently works with a private practice as launched her newest endeavor, an anesthesiologist. They hope to @redferncoaching. Judith helps clients focus on what is next and how participate in the reunion this year! to get there, whether it’s a career move, change of surroundings, or finding the motivation to try something new. Please check out her website and follow along on Elizabeth Guevara has joined Instagram @redferncoaching.com General Dynamics Information Technology (GDIT) as Senior Manager for Inclusion, Diversity and Giving. Noreen S. Miyake-Char (8 & 9) was awarded The 2021 Five Star Wealth Manager award for Don’t miss Andrea Brunhart the Washington, D.C. area and was Donalty’s Alumnae Spotlight in featured in the October 2021 issue this issue! of The Washington Post Magazine. She is a five-time recipient of this prestigious honor (2016, 2018-2021). The award is based on ten objective eligibility and evaluation criteria. 2,091 candidates were considered for the award, and 129 were selected as Nicola Whiteman has joined 2021 Five Star Wealth Managers. Mercedes-Benz AG as General Stephanie Young Mitchell writes that she has been a practicing LPN for 30 years, working with Adventist Health in the Germantown Urgent Care Center. Her son (4) is 20 years old and is studying communications at The University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown. Clara Daza Stanton and Susan McCarthy Fitzgerald (5) got together for some Christmas cheer in December, 2021.
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Manager, Public Policy & External Affairs.
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Ginger King Shaw was invited to speak to the sophomores about her deployment to Afghanistan, as well as current developments in that region. She provided the students with background context while they are reading The Kite Runner.
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EB Forst (10) recently wrote an article titled, “The Adventurer Leading the Government’s Research” in the January issue of New Mobility, the member publication of United Spinal Association, which is dedicated to empowering people with spinal cord injuries and related disabilities to live successful and fulfilling lives. Scan the QR code to read the article. 10 Hon. Tania Saylor is the first African American female Circuit Court Judge in Northern Virginia. Her term began July 1, 2021, as a judge of the Nineteenth Judicial Circuit in Virginia for a term of eight years.
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25th REUNION YEAR It’s time to start planning your April 30th class reunion! In January, Jean Zachariasiewicz (11) started as a Trial Attorney with the Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division, Special Litigation Unit. She is part of the Police Practices Group, which works to protect the rights of people who interact with state or local police or sheriffs’ departments. She lives in Baltimore with her husband and two sons. Congratulations to Kim Lembo Abrams (12) for the launch of her incredible new company, Petra. This is a robotics company that has invented a completely new way to excavate rock through gas and heat. Gina Petrucelli Whitney is a
Pre Kidney Transplant Coordinator at Walter Reed Army Hospital in Bethesda, MD. Gina and her sister Lisa chaired Holy Child’s Tiger Trot in October, making it the first in-person all community event of the 2021-2022 year. She is also the proud parent of Giana ‘25, who is a freshman at Holy Child!
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Jaci Appel (13) married Eli Peterson in a “COVID wedding” on February 14, 2021, and they were able to celebrate with a larger group of family and friends at their wedding reception on September 11, 2021. As a realtor with Washington Fine Properties, Jaci was recognized on the Best of Washingtonian 2021 List as a Platinum Producer and on Bethesda Magazine’s Top Producer list in 2021! Since March 2020, Jessica Dillon Bieligk has helped build Paceline, the first unified wellness platform connecting and incentivizing physical, mental, and financial health all in the spirit of enabling a healthier society. The company’s app offers rewards in exchange for physical activity—more simply, you get paid to work out! The Paceline community has grown to over 700k users and from 5 to 50 employees in the last year and are continuing to grow. To download the Paceline app, go the Apple app store and use JESSPACELINE as your referral code. Their job postings can be found on www.Pacelinefit.com. Feel free to email Jessica (jess@paceline. fit) if interested! Pierce Resler Coffee (14), President of Transurban North America, was recognized in the 2021 Virginia 500 Power List by Virginia Business as an influential #transportation leader. Pierce was interviewed by The Washington Post on December 30, 2021, about transformative ways her company can help alleviate traffic congestion in DMV region. She has been with Transurban since 2009. Have you read how Sarah Siciliano Wragge became an entrepreneur? Check out her Alumnae Spotlight in this magazine.
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’02 25th REUNION YEAR It’s time to start planning your April 30th class reunion!
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Victoria Lynch Draper (15) shared the following wonderful news! “In April 2021, my husband and I welcomed our second son into the world, Logan Christopher Draper, and in August, I accepted a new position as Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Manager for Wiley Rein LLP, one of the largest law firms in DC.”
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Johanna Hancock Pettit (2, with mother Suzie Stinson ‘76) married her husband Tim on June 18, 2020. Johanna is a charge nurse working in Labor and Delivery at Bon Secours St. Francis Hospital in Charleston, South Caroline. Katherine Cantrell was married December 19, 2021 in an intimate ceremony at the Barnsley resort outside of Atlanta. Ali Allen Kistler (16), her husband Kevin and son Jack (age 2) welcomed baby boy Beau December 8, 2021.
’07 15th REUNION YEAR It’s time to start planning your April 30th class reunion!
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Isabel Wallisch Klingshirn (17) has a lot of news to share! “My family and I moved to Satellite Beach, FL in early January 2021 when I accepted a position in the Air Force Reserves as the Director of Logistics for a Pararescue Squadron at Patrick Space Force Base. I was also promoted to the rank of Major in November 2020. We also welcomed a new addition, William John Klingshirn, on June 8th 2020. I have also been given the honor of being Carter Speelmans’ (Ashley Benson Speelmans’ (18) son’s) godmother. Carter was born January 22, 2021 and was baptized May 23,
2021 at the National Cathedral.” In September of 2021, Meredith Hickman (19) was announced as a 2020-2021 Maryland School Librarian of the Year! She is currently loving her work as a School Library Media Specialist and Webmaster at Seven Locks Elementary School in Bethesda, Maryland.
’12 10th REUNION YEAR It’s time to start planning your April 30th class reunion! Jasmine Squire (20) and Isa Johnson (20) celebrated Isa’s birthday in Cancun, Mexico last summer.
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Sarah Horan lives in Atlanta and works in enterprise cybersecurity at Microsoft. She keeps up with her HC classmates and remembers her time at Holy Child fondly. Lauren Keeley is getting her PhD in English at University of Illinois in Chicago. She also tutors AP French. Maddy Hopkins is pursuing an MBA at Creighton University while working in Admissions at Creighton. Amy Watkins started a new role working on the Corporate Reputation team at Edelman, a leading global public relations firm.
’17 5th REUNION YEAR It’s time to start planning your April 30th class reunion!
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Congratulations to Jada Dapaa (21) who achieved a milestone 500th rebound playing for St. Francis Women’s Basketball team in the 3rd quarter of their game against Fairleigh Dickinson on December 31st! Jada and fellow classmates Jada Welbon and Tori Yantsos practiced with Holy Child’s varsity basketball team at their last practice of 2021.
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Piper Martin (22) is George Washington University’s UNICEF Advocacy Committee Chair. In this role, she guides a sub-committee of the club to host large educational events for UNICEF club members and the GW community to help support and raise awareness to UNICEF’s mission. Piper is a Public Health Major at George Washington University’s Milken Institute of Public Health.
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Sarah Hortin worked out with our varsity basketball team over Christmas break. She is an Environmental Science major with a minor in Data Science at Mercyhurst University.
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ALUMNAE MEET-UPS
DON’T MISS THESE EXCITING EVENTS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR! A number of alumnae from the classes of 1970 and 1971 attended a belated 50th Reunion luncheon on November 20 in McShain Library. They were treated to a delicious luncheon provided by Potomac Grocer owner Beth Spencer Collins ’80 and enjoyed a slideshow, a school update from Head of School Dr. Shannon Gomez, a talk from senior Bergin Russell about her years at Holy Child, and tours of the school. They are looking forward to the Golden Years Luncheon on April 30 during Alumnae Week 2022! We had so many alumnae and their families join us for our annual Holy Child Tiger Trot 5k on October 3, 2021. It was an exciting day, seeing members of our community come together for one of our favorite traditions! Please join us for the 2022 Tiger Trot on Sunday, October 2, 2022.
2021 Tiger Trot 5k winner Joanna Smith-Ramani ‘94
Krista Kelly ‘05, Brynn Jones ‘10, Caroline Dennin ‘10, Jordan Canter ‘08, Shelby Lacerte ‘08, and Mary Kate Gilligan ‘10.
Jessica Colburn ’94, Maddie Highfill ’27, Sofia Beltran ’27, Abigail ’22, and Ginger Shaw ’94
On Friday, November 19, 2021 we hosted our second Alum Sip & Shop Night for Mayfield Market. This night gave our alumnae a sneak peak at our wonderful vendors and let them get started on their holiday shopping while reconnecting with old friends. Mark your calendar for Mayfield Market 2022 on November 18-20. Check our website and social media for details on the Alumnae Sip & Shop.
Jenna Fairbanks ’14 and Jori Contee Staton ’14
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Ryann Stefanou, Jenny Fitzpatrick, Katie Mangan, Caitlin James, Sarah Reese, Neda Ghassabeh, Minoo Razavi, Caitlyn Pollack. All graduated in 2003.
Susan Koenig Freericks ’83 and mother.
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Class Representatives 1965 Cathy Caspar Delahay
1987 Jennifer Abbey Johnson
1966 Deborah Kissinger Carol Pender Sinwell
1988 Margi Vechery Braun
1967 | Class Rep Needed 1968 | Class Rep Needed 1969 Margaret Colbert Keegan Suzanne Hodson MacDaniels Kate Burke Walsh 1970 Nancy Forbes Ephraim 1971 Margaret Culotta-Norton 1972 Mary Ann Mangold Veirs 1973 Missy Asbill Attridge 1974 | Class Rep Needed 1975 Karen Denison Clark Cheryl Becker Grand Ann Cassidy Principe 1976 Daniele Cronin-Tewes Suzanne Stinson Mary Hornish Kempf 1977 Shana Gaultney Elliot 1978 | Class Rep Needed 1979 Stephanie Joyce Farrell 1980 Jennifer Girardi McCloskey 1981 Carla Pappalardo 1982 | Class Rep Needed 1983 Jennifer Slye Aniskovich Suzanne Matan 1984 Amy Baldwin Doherty Ann Bouchard Kerrigan Jill Slye King 1985 Pamela Burns 1986 Coleen McDonald Thompson CONNELLY CONTACT | WINTER ‘22
1989 Jessica Metz Barrett Laura McCarthy McGuinn 1990 Ingrid Ortega Froehner Maria Ximena Rubin 1991 Missy Plaia Von Stauffenberg Lisa Knight Steele 1992 | Class Rep Needed 1993 Elizabeth Guevara Alicia O’Hare Henneberry Noreen Miyake-Char 1994 Ginger King Shaw Joanna Smith-Ramani 1995 Martha Nguyen 1996 | Class Rep Needed 1997 Kerry Parker Katharine Seay LeCheminant Veruska Veiga 1998 Kathryn Smits Desiree Gavilan Speicher 1999 Susan Decker Raff 2000 Jessica Dillon Bieligk 2001 Anjanette Cottingim Bizzarro 2002 Shannon FitzGerald Grant Beatrice Freire-Frey Kristin Liverman 2003 Jenny Fitzpatrick Caitlin James 2004 | Class Rep Needed 2005 Irene Firippis Meagan Fitzgerald Romero Caitlin McCarthy
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2006 Rotimi Abimbola Catherine Buckingham Elaine Stefanou
2012 Katie Kress Kaelynn Serena Christine Troiano
2007 Shea Fitzgerald Grant Isabel Wallisch Klingshirn Samantha Cooper McIntee Allie Williams Slocum
2013 Fannie Benziger Heather Lamb Alex Phifer
2008 Kim Dolmuz 2009 Rebecca Railey Cauffman Lizzy Frank Kelsey Albanese Jones 2010 Katherine Thomas 2011 Charlotte Barry Meagan Glynn
2014 Maddy Hopkins Marissa MacDonald Katie Rose Marvin 2015 Allison Bloss Caitlyn O’Berry 2016 Samantha Boccia Lilly Paro Isabelle Tyshing
2017 Caitlin Grant Maddy Moore Layo Ojo Elsa Wetten 2018 Molly Grant Chesney Lynch Olivia Welsh 2019 Charlotte Bell Gigi McBride Rachel Russell 2020 Keely McGowan Kayla Smith 2021 Claire Duffy Julia Grisius Kiki Nyoh Nora Rembold
the
Mayfield Society Named after Cornelia Connelly’s oldest school location, the Mayfield Society serves as the cornerstone of financial support for Holy Child. Mayfield Society members lead the community with annual gifts to the Fund for Holy Child of $5,000 and above. These leaders help inspire a culture of philanthropy, representing over 50% of unrestricted funding, and their contributions make a significant impact on student experience. The generosity, insight, and partnership of our Mayfield Society make it possible to fulfill our mission year after year. Members of the Mayfield Society are recognized for their contributions personally in various ways throughout the year. Young alumnae within 20 years of graduation may join the Society with gifts of $1,500 and above.
Learn how to become a member by visiting HolyChild.org/mayfield-society/ 54
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IN MEMORIAM Darby Backes, nephew of Head of School, Dr. Shannon Gomez and her husband, Art Gomez Dr. Milton D. Bernard, father of Michelle Bernard, and grandfather of Avery Johns ’24 Faith Lydia Guiffre, niece of former Board Chair Patrick Caulfield and Connie Coakley Caulfield ’82 and cousin of Tierney Caulfield ’10 Kathleen Williams Farley, sister of former Board Chair and Trustee Mike Williams and aunt of former Trustee Jessi Williams Frend ’01 and Allie Williams Slocum ’07 Michael Glynn, father of current Holy Child Trustee Sean Glynn and grandfather of Meagan ’11 and Kate ’15 Glynn Delores Henry, mother of Shannon Henry Kleiber ’87 Patricia “Trish” Hohman, mother of Suzanne Hohman Matan ’83 and current parent Tom Hohman, and grandmother of Meghan Carroll ’13 and Maggie Hohman ’23 Entsar Jama, sister of faculty member Nawil Jama Robert Johnson, father of Sue Whitaker, father-in-law of former Trustee Bill Whitaker, and grandfather of Maya Whitaker ’17, Dorothy “Pam” Key, mother of Marianne Key O’Grady ’71 Gere Lynch, mother of Patsy Lynch ’71 and grandmother of former staff member Meghan Barry McKee Patricia Marshall, grandmother of Meagan ’11 and Kate ’15 Glynn, mother of Kim Glynn, and mother-in-law of current Holy Child Trustee Sean Glynn Marion Mattingly, mother of Jane Mattingly Blackwell ’82 Maureen Pender ’67, sister of former Holy Child Trustees Carol Pender Sinwell ’66, Mary Beth Pender ’69, and Janet Pender ’74 H. Russell “Russ” Potts, Jr., father of current parent Katie Driscoll and grandfather of Lulu Driscoll ’24 Alice Sandifer, grandmother of Caroline Ambrosi ’19 and mother of Paul Ambrosi Margaret Mary “Peggy” Stanton, mother of Bridget Stanton Rascher ’90 and current parent Michael J. Stanton, mother-in-law of Clara Daza Stanton ’82, and grandmother of Victoria Stanton ’25 and Casserly Stanton ’27 Sylvia Stinson, mother of former Holy Child Alumnae Association President Suzie Stinson ’76 and grandmother of Johanna Hancock ’06 Edwin Sutton and Salley Sutton, father-in-law and mother-in-law of Holy Child Administrator, Terri Sutton Winifred Svikhart, mother of former Holy Child Trustee Liz Garner and grandmother of Holy Child Middle School Counselor Cece Garner ’15 Luanne Thomas, aunt of Head of School Dr. Shannon Gomez Heidi Titus, wife of Frank Titus, mother of Abbey ’18 and Maggie ’21 Titus Robert Wallace, father of Eileen Wallace ’83 Rosemary Zugel, mother of Rosemary Zugel ’77 and Jeanmarie Zugel Smith ’79 and grandmother of Courtney Smith Gaffney ’07
CONNELLY SCHOOL OF THE HOLY CHILD 9029 Bradley Blvd. Potomac, MD 20854
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