The Impact of a Holy Child Education Stories of Our Young Alumni Leaders
The full cast of our 2024 Spring Play, “Finding Nemo, Jr.,” performs on
On the Cover: The Class of 2028 performs a song as part of their Continents Project, a hallmark of the fourth grade year that encompasses multidisciplinary learning about our world’s continents and cultures through social studies, creative writing, and music.
As I reflect on my first year at Holy Child School at Rosemont, I am filled with gratitude for our remarkable community, which has warmly welcomed me and made me feel unconditionally supported. This was a busy year for the school — and for me, as I experienced every event and tradition for the first time. What I love about all our school events is that they all reinforce our Holy Child values and the strength of our community, and most importantly, that they are student focused, providing opportunities for participation and growth.
As a result, it is no surprise that our eighth graders do exceptionally well in the high school placement process. Our students are in high demand because they are academically prepared, possess outstanding leadership ability, and embody a strong moral compass and integrity that have been nurtured by our Catholic identity and Holy Child Goals. Having interviewed scores of Holy Child eighth graders while working at an area independent school, I can attest to the poise, presence, and eloquence of Holy Child graduates, and now I understand that the transformation is not by chance — from a young age, our students have countless speaking and leadership opportunities to develop their confidence, allowing them to excel in many different settings.
In this issue of “Cachet,” you will read about some remarkable alumni whose leadership skills and character were nurtured at Holy Child, and now they are achieving and leading in high school and beyond. Meeting an array of alumni this year has confirmed for me that we must engage this talented group of people in more intentional and impactful ways, and one of my goals for the upcoming year is to meet more alumni both in and beyond our region.
While our past and traditions give us much to reflect on, it is also important to look forward with a strategic vision to enhance and improve the school while staying grounded in our mission, Holy Child identity, and vision of “Nurturing Excellence in a Joyful Catholic Community.”
Our strategic planning process, which began this spring, will ideally bring our community closer together around a common purpose and with a clear strategy that everyone understands and supports. To learn more about the yearlong strategic planning process, visit HolyChildRosemont.org/StrategicPlan. The development of the strategic plan involves opportunities for community input, and I look forward to having each and every one of you be part of this essential process that is shaping the future of our school.
Sincerely,
Brian McBride Head of School
A Holy Child education is holistic in its approach, preparing students for any path they choose to take in high school, college, and beyond. This is evidenced by the broad range of high schools that our students choose to attend — members of the Class of 2024 will head off to 10 different area high schools this fall — and underscored by the variety of disciplines that our alumni study in college and the fields they pursue as professionals. While these are significant measures, the value of a Holy Child education is best exemplified by our alumni who step into leadership roles in their respective communities, proudly living Cornelia Connelly’s motto: “Actions, Not Words.”
Drive a few miles in any direction away from Holy Child School at Rosemont, and you will easily find a high school campus where Holy Child graduates are serving as student-leaders. Nick Gianoukos ’20, a recent graduate of St. Joseph’s Preparatory School, served as the student body president during his senior year, an opportunity that he earned after years of getting involved in the community, particularly with Student Council; making friends across the school; and having the courage to campaign. As a leader of his peers who is also responsible for working with the administration on student-life and community-building experiences, Nick explains, “An important part of my approach to leadership is making sure that people know they’re being heard and that they feel respected.” Reflecting on how his time at Holy Child laid the foundation for his high school experience, Nick shares, “Holy Child prepared me academically and socially, teaching me the value of accountability, which has carried over into my leadership style in high school.”
At Episcopal Academy (EA), our alumni Hannah Neilly ’20, I’jaaz Abdul-Malik ’20, and Gabe Ketchum ’20 had the extraordinary honor of serving as three of 10 total student-leaders in Esse Quam Videri (EQV) during their senior year. Named after the school’s motto, which translates to say “To be rather than to seem,” the leadership group is composed of 10 to 12 seniors each year who best represent and demonstrate the school’s values. After being nominated by their peers and faculty at EA and undergoing a multistage interview process, Hannah, I’jaaz, and Gabe were chosen to be part of EQV and tasked with “cultivating a positive and inclusive culture in the school community” while also growing as leaders themselves. On the subject of growth, a leadership lesson that comes to mind for Gabe connects to some of the lessons that Holy Child teaches its youngest students: “I’ve learned that oftentimes, leadership is as simple as holding the door for someone, saying hi in the hallway,
Gabe Ketchum ’20 Episcopal Academy, Class of 2024 — Washington and Lee University
I’jaaz Abdul-Malik ’20 Episcopal Academy, Class of 2024 — West Chester University
or showing respect to a teacher. Leaders are meant to stand out, but not always in big ways; it’s about having integrity when no one is watching and leading by your character.” Reflecting on how Holy Child prepared them as leaders, I’jaaz shares, “What stuck out to me during my time at Holy Child was the motto, ‘Actions, Not Words,’ and because of this guiding message, I learned how to lead by example for my peers. As a leader, you have to hold yourself to a certain standard because other people are looking up to you and watching what you do.” Building on the discussion of our school’s motto, Hannah emphasizes, “Being a good leader means being a good listener. You show others that you care by your actions, and there’s value in listening to other people’s points of view.” Gabe adds, “At Holy Child, I learned that it is necessary to go out of your way to meet people, which is valuable because it allows you to learn from other people’s experiences and gain perspective.”
As student-athletes who will continue their athletic pursuits at the respective colleges, Hannah, I’jaaz, and Gabe understand the importance of balancing cocurricular pursuits with their studies as well as the meaningful connections that arise out of involvement. “I learned the importance of participation and trying different activities at Holy Child, which was further cultivated during my time at EA,” Gabe shares. “Being part of handbells and the Spring Play at Holy Child, and joining an improv club and the track team as a pole-vaulter at EA, allowed me to explore and discover my interests. I put myself out there, which gave me the opportunity to lead and for others to see me acting as a leader.” Echoing his classmates’ emphasis on the significance of getting involved, I’jaaz describes, “Holy Child taught us how to fulfill our potential in many areas of school, including athletics, the performing arts, and academics. Through trying different things, I not only made connections with other people, but I also discovered that I had a talent for photography.” By investing in this interest discovered at Holy Child, I’jaaz was awarded two Silver Key awards and an honorable mention for his photography submissions as a high school junior in the Scholastic Art and Writing awards. Hannah remarks that cocurriculars at Holy Child “kick-started my drive to join more groups and foster relationships within my school community,” crediting our service-learning opportunities as “experiences that taught us humility and gratitude.” She shares, “Growing up in this area, it’s easy to get caught up in ‘The Main Line,’ but Holy Child is a special school because it places an emphasis on character development and giving back to others.”
“Leaders are meant to stand out, but not always in big ways; it’s about having integrity when no one is watching and leading by your character.”
— Gabe Ketchum
’20
Hannah Neilly ’20
Nick Gianoukos ’20
St. Joseph’s Preparatory School, Class of 2024 — Williams College
College campuses throughout the U.S. welcome our Holy Child alumni each fall, including liberal arts colleges, midsized institutions, and large state universities, reflecting the versatile and foundational education offered by our school. Lauren Gunn ’16, a recent graduate of Northwestern University, exemplified what it means to be a multifaceted student by studying theater, business institutions, and integrated marketing communications during her time in Chicago, IL. As a freshman in college, Lauren found and enrolled in a three-course leadership program with Northwestern’s Center for Leadership, which she credits with being “a fulfilling experience that offered interdisciplinary applications and allowed me to meet a lot of new people outside of my areas of study.” She was then chosen as one of four undergraduate leadership ambassadors for Northwestern’s Center for Leadership, and served in this role for three consecutive years, discovering ways to engage with, uplift, and educate others on their unique leadership personas. “I was proud to be the only theater major on the ambassador team because I brought a different point of view to the table, amplifying creative-minded applications of what we learn and teach at the center,” she explains. In her ambassador role, Lauren was responsible for coordinating and hosting discussions, panels, and summits to engage students across the university in leadership-based dialogues. An event that she delighted in moderating this spring was a panel of artistic directors from famous Chicago-area theaters, which they marketed to a broad range of creative voices in the Northwestern community, as it focused on the intersection of professional leadership and the artistic world. “I attribute a great deal of my personal identity and drive to the foundation I was given at Holy Child. It propelled me forth, bolstering my confidence, which I have channeled into driving change and making an impact on Northwestern’s campus in my own unique way,” she reflects. Further connecting her Holy Child experience to the way she leads her life today, Lauren describes, “I felt a sense of community and belonging so deeply throughout my time at Holy Child. I now live my life in a much larger circle of people, and I strive to establish and harvest communities for myself and others. A lesson from Holy Child that I will always carry with me is that you can be a nurturing force and provide someone with a sense of belonging, regardless of your similarities or differences.”
Lauren Gunn ’16 Northwestern University, Class of 2024
Laura Wallon ’18
Widener University, Class of 2026
’18 and her Holy Child classmate Aidan Boyle ’18 lead the class in a discussion during their eighth grade year.
On a campus closer to Holy Child, Laura Wallon ’18 is a rising junior at Widener University, studying psychology, biology, and Spanish, while also earning a certificate in Latin American and Caribbean studies. Her campus involvement spans a variety of her strengths and interests: she is an Apogee Scholar, receiving recognition for her excellence in leadership and granting her membership in the Apogee Leadership Scholars Program; a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.; the social media chair for both Latinos Unidos and the Black Student Union; a researcher with Widener’s Summer Undergraduate Research and Creative Activities program; and a mentor to incoming freshman students. Most notably, Laura was elected as the Student Government Association (SGA) president for the 2024–2025 academic year, making her the youngest student body president that Widener has ever had. The moment she set foot on campus as a freshman, Laura got involved with the SGA, deftly working her way up through the ranks to be eligible to run for and earn this role.
As a link between the students and the faculty and administration, Laura brings a unique, trail-blazing leadership style to the SGA, striving to be a visible and active leader. Creating new campus events like a gala, reinventing the process for town halls, and attending more club events have been part of her approach; she wants to bring the SGA’s work to the forefront so that the campus community better knows, understands, and feels supported by the organization. Underscoring her approach to leadership, Laura shares two essential qualities that make up a great leader, explaining, “Empathy and active listening are incredibly important. People feel heard and understood when you actively listen to them.” Thinking back to her time at Holy Child and its impact on her, Laura reflects, “I feel that my Holy Child education is the reason why I am who I am today. I was introverted when I started at Holy Child in sixth grade. Mentorship from faculty and opportunities to try new things allowed me to grow in my confidence. My teachers made me feel like I was known and that I mattered to the community. I found joy in trying new things at Holy Child, connected with my faith, and learned valuable skills and lessons that provided me with a holistic well-rounded education.”
Pictured are (from left) Tina Abate (20 years), Harold Simmons (15 years), and Helen Gambescia (35 years).
Pictured are (back row from left) Kyle Dunn (10 years), Jessica Travaglini (5 years), Steve Clarke ’73 (45 years), Patrick Mangan (5 years), Megan Trost (10 years), and (front row from left) Joanne McGee (15 years), MaryBeth Weir (5 years), Kit Tosti (20 years), Robin Beaver (25 years), Jillian Gabel (5 years), Mollie Manno Miller ’99 (5 years).
On March 3, 2024, at our annual Family Mass and Breakfast, we honored 14 members of our faculty and staff who celebrated milestone anniversaries for their years of service at our school. The Family Mass and Breakfast is a beloved community event, bringing together current and former families, faculty, and staff for a morning of faith and fellowship. As we reflect on the origins of beloved school traditions during our 75th anniversary year, we discovered that the Family Mass and Breakfast had its roots in the mid-1970s — and was originally celebrated in the cafeteria!
In his opening remarks, Head of School Brian McBride reflected on the meaningful milestones that our faculty and staff honorees had reached this school year, sharing, “It is a testament to our school and community that we have 14 individuals who we will honor today, and some have worked here for two, three, and four decades. I am grateful for their service to this wonderful school and all the ways that they have dedicated themselves, their talents, and their time to our students.”
Members of the Class of 2025 take us on a journey around the globe during their Walk Around the World presentations and performances.
1. The arts are a vital part of a Holy Child education, and the Class of 2035 members make many wonderful creations, like this colorful craft for Valentine’s Day!
2. Students in the Class of 2033 serve a refreshing cup of lemonade to members of the Class of 2028 in support of our annual Alex’s Lemonade Stand fundraiser.
3. In preparation for Easter, students in the Class of 2032 recount the narrative of Jesus’ resurrection in a performance for their loved ones.
4. Students in the Class of 2031 take the stage to perform “The Little Red Hen,” a play that emphasizes the importance of friendship and caring for one another.
5. The Class of 2029 students proudly showcase their attire for the annual Biography Bash, where each student represents and reports on a historical figure’s accomplishments and contributions.
6. The Class of 2027’s students teach us about major events preceding the American Revolution at their annual Colonial Festival.
7. Students in the Class of 2026 proudly display their handmade, festive piñatas, created for the annual Piñata Contest!
8. The Class of 2024 members expand our knowledge of notable Black creators, scientists, activists, and athletes while hosting the Black History Month assembly.
As part of our commitment to nurture children in the early years of their education and partner with parents in this effort, Holy Child School at Rosemont formed a parent education series at the start of the 2023-2024 school year to offer our community opportunities to learn from nationally renowned experts about how best to support children’s growth, development, and wellbeing. During the inaugural year of Holy Child Values in Action: A Practical Parenting Series, we welcomed three expert guest speakers for in-person presentations and participated in six virtual sessions through a series hosted by the Pennsylvania Association of Independent Schools (PAIS) and the Independent Schools Association of the Central States (ISACS).
Understanding that today’s children are faced with different influences and challenges, especially while growing up in a digitally saturated world, Holy Child continually seeks to understand and address what the latest research is telling us about adolescent mental, emotional, and spiritual health. These intentions led us to participate in the PAIS/ISACS virtual sessions, knowing that we would be able to access a broader network of experts with the help of technology, and to intentionally invite select experts to speak in person. Across all nine presentations, the experts covered an array of timely topics for parents and educators of all ages.
Our in-person presentations focused on the role of technology and social media in children’s lives, strategies to foster and promote resilience in children, and digital citizenship in an ever-changing online landscape. Experts who presented at our school this spring included Dr. Ken Ginsburg, an adolescent medicine practitioner at
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) and professor of pediatrics at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, and Ben Tracy, founder of Safe Social Network and a leading keynote speaker on digital citizenship, online safety, and responsible social media use. In addition to speaking with our parent community, Ben also gave ageappropriate presentations to students across Grades 3-8, sharing thought-provoking statistics about social media use that prompted discussion and reflection among our students.
Recognizing the need to supplement our academic program with resources, lessons, and experiences to support children’s wellbeing, Holy Child has established a Wellbeing Program that will begin in earnest this fall and has been made possible by generous support from our community, as the program was this year’s Raise Your Paddle cause at our spring Auction. We look forward to continuing to develop our parent-education series in tandem with our Wellbeing Program, ultimately benefiting our students as they experience immense personal growth during their years at Holy Child. Learn more and access free resources on our website at HolyChildRosemont.org/HC-ValuesInAction.
Fifteen years ago, Joanne McGee joined the Holy Child School at Rosemont community as a PreKindergarten teacher and parent. While her teaching career has spanned 23 total years and she taught in a variety of classrooms before coming to Holy Child, Joanne feels most passionate about teaching Early Childhood students because she loves being part of the early years in a child’s education, when she can help them build a love of learning. To mark this important milestone in her Holy Child career, Joanne shared her reflections on the importance of teaching values, leadership skills, and “the power of yet.”
How does the mission of Holy Child influence your role as an educator?
The philosophy of embracing the whole child and loving the whole child for exactly who they are is what I appreciate the most about our school and its mission. I want the children to feel loved and valued for exactly
who they are, which shows them that they are each contributors to our community in their own ways. My most important job each fall is to build rapport with the new class of PreKindergarteners so that they learn to trust me and feel comfortable in the classroom. When they feel loved and welcomed, they can take chances, make mistakes, and become engaged learners. We are so blessed to be able to make this school feel like “a home away from home” for our students. Raising good people who will be kind, loving, and accepting, especially beyond the halls of Holy Child, is the most important part of our job next to educating them.
How do you approach teaching leadership skills to some of our youngest students?
From the earliest years in Early Childhood, our children have opportunities to lead prayer services and assemblies and host performances for their families. Providing children with experiences singing, speaking, and performing in front of an audience are some ways to begin establishing their confidence as leaders. Outside of these experiences, leadership-skill development is woven into our day-to-day practices; play is an essential teaching ground for our students. We are guiding the children to collaborate and be open to other people’s ideas, such as the give-and-take of cooperative play, and modeling how to strategize and problem solve with others. The Alex’s Lemonade Stand fundraiser that PreKindergarten hosts every year also teaches the children about leadership and making a difference in our community. We weave age-appropriate lessons into our curriculum that relate to this service-learning opportunity, teaching the
Favorite Food: Pasta!
Hobbies: Reading, exercising, and shopping.
Bucket List: Traveling to new places, especially islands with beaches and warm weather!
children about communities and community helpers, like first responders and doctors; how advertising amplifies the message of our fundraiser; customer service basics, such as thanking every customer individually; and an introduction to coins since the children will help us sort the money we collect. Year after year, our students feel good about the outcome of this service project.
Tell us about “the power of yet” and how this helps build children’s confidence. In children’s literature, you will often find lessons about perseverance and overcoming challenges. We discuss these types of messages with the PreKindergarten students, reflecting on how a character “can’t do this yet,” but eventually tries, learns, and succeeds. At this age, children are often less willing to attempt things because there’s an apprehension about the unfamiliar. Many of them have a perception that making a mistake is a bad thing. “The power of yet” is a message to help children acknowledge a mistake and say, “That’s okay, let’s try again. You don’t know it yet, but we’re going to get there.” I tell them that I learn the most when I make a mistake, pointing out when I do and saying that everyone makes mistakes — even adults. The students learn from modeling, messaging, and encouragement, and we have seen growth and improvement in their confidence because of these intentional approaches. Ultimately, we want them to have an open mindset and feel excited about trying and experiencing new things.
On Saturday, April 27, 2024, our community gathered to support 36 members of the Class of 2030 as they received the Sacrament of First Holy Communion at St. Thomas of Villanova Rosemont Chapel. Each of the students participated in the Mass by fulfilling their roles, including serving as lectors for readings and prayers of the faithful, and carrying the offertory gifts. Preceding this joyful event, the class received the Sacrament of Reconciliation on Thursday, December 7, 2023, at Rosemont College’s Chapel of the Immaculate Conception.
Overall, the 2023-2024 school year was a joyous time for Grade 2 students as they prepared to receive the sacraments. Prayer services provided moments of reflection and learning for students as they prepared for their roles in the Mass and the church as a whole. The celebration of both sacraments is significant to our Grade 2 class every year, and witnessing these faith commitments within our community reminds us how we may continue to grow in our faith.
Our Commencement Mass and graduation ceremony were held at St. Thomas of Villanova Rosemont Chapel to celebrate the achievements of the members of the Class of 2024 and welcome them as the newest alumni of Holy Child School at Rosemont. On Thursday, May 30, 27 Grade 8 students received their diplomas while their families and our faculty and staff were in attendance. The joyful celebration included speeches from our Student Council Co-Presidents Margo Abboud ’24 and Charlie Jones ’24, who spoke about their favorite Holy Child traditions and memories, and joyful songs performed by our Grade 8 cantors, including George Barton ’24, Bailey Farrell ’24, Aubrey Gallman ’24, Elaina Schlich ’24, Chloe Tomaszewski ’24, Margo Abboud ’24, Caroline Kain ’24, Isabella Scott ’24, and Julia South ’24. In addition, 10 students were recognized as scholarship recipients to area high schools for their academic excellence. Our community is immensely proud of the hard work, leadership, and growth shown by the Class of 2024, and we wish them well on their next steps in education.
The Academy of Notre Dame (6)
The Agnes Irwin School (8)
Archbishop Carroll High School (1)
Episcopal Academy (1)
The Haverford School (3)
Malvern Preparatory School (1)
Mount Saint Joseph Academy (1)
Radnor High School (1)
Sacred Heart Academy Bryn Mawr (1)
St. Joseph’s Preparatory School (3)
Holy Child School at Rosemont’s 75th anniversary year provided our community with inspiration to reflect on — and find the origins of — many of our beloved traditions. As a Catholic school providing students with a faith education, we know that faith traditions have been part of the tapestry of our school’s history. Exploring the journals of our former heads of school has provided us with new insights into the early days of our school’s faith traditions and how they took shape through the guidance of the Sisters of the Holy Child Jesus who were among the first educators at our school.
Students and faculty visited New Sharon’s chapel every day except, as noted by our first Head of School Mother Mary Elizabeth, on rainy days. As seen in many early photos, visiting the fountain on the grounds of New Sharon was something that the children enjoyed.
May 20, 1950
The first second graders at School of the Holy Child Jesus received the Sacrament of First Holy Communion.
December 8, 1950
On this date, the earliest documented group of students from the School of the Holy Child Jesus, which is the original name of our school, received the Sacrament of Confirmation in New Sharon’s chapel.
May 16, 1951
The earliest documented May Crowning Ceremony of the school, with parents in attendance and prayers at the grotto.
December 8, 1952
An all-community morning Mass was celebrated for the Feast of the Immaculate Conception.
October 14, 1959
St. Teresa’s Day, which is regarded as the founding day for the Society of the Holy Child Jesus, was celebrated by the school. This is the earliest documented celebration where the eldest children led lessons for the younger students, a St. Teresa’s Day tradition that continues to this day. 3.
1. First Holy Communion in 1950 and 1964, respectively.
2. May Processions in the 1950s.
3. Holy Child students in the 1950s stop to enjoy the fountain at New Sharon during their walk to chapel.
On Friday, May 3, 2024, we opened our classroom doors to welcome grandparents and loved ones to Holy Child for a beloved and enduring school tradition: Grandparents’ and Special Friends’ Day. The morning began in the Fitzgerald Performing Arts and Athletic Center with a welcome from Head of School Brian McBride, followed by a three-song preview of our Spring Play, “Finding Nemo, Jr.,” and a performance by Canta, our Lower School Choir. Among the pillars of Cornelia Connelly’s educational philosophy are the performing arts, and this showcase of our talented students across Lower and Middle School exemplified the value of collaboration as everyone’s voices came together in a beautiful harmony.
With this special event falling during the month of May, it was only fitting that our students led a prayer service focused on the crowning of the Blessed Mother. Children led the songs, prayers, and crowning
of Mary, showing their loved ones how we take on active roles in our faith at Holy Child. Armed with inspiration and excitement from our morning program, grandparents and special friends then joined their students in the classroom for fun-filled learning that spanned all subjects. Students and their guests created family crests in art class, learned ukelele in music, potted plants in science class, and reflected on memories prompted by interview-style questions written in language arts.
Parent volunteers were essential to the event, guiding guests to different parts of the school to ensure that they could spend meaningful time with all of the children and grandchildren who had invited them. With nearly 300 loved ones in attendance, the sense of community was palpable, and our students were eager to introduce their peers and teachers to the people who matter most to them.
Parents Elizabeth and Michael Palazzi and their three sons have an eight-year history with Holy Child School at Rosemont, beginning when they enrolled their eldest son, Michael ’24, in first grade. However, they have a unique Holy Child legacy that extends beyond the walls of our school: Elizabeth attended and graduated from Oak Knoll School of the Holy Child in Summit, NJ, a fellow school in the Holy Child Network that educates students from preschool through 12th grade. “During our first visit to Holy Child School at Rosemont, I walked into the Tudor Building and instantly felt at home because it had the exact same feel as my alma mater,” Elizabeth reflects. “I was very happy to know that our sons would be able to benefit from a Holy Child education just like I did.”
When asked what they value most about our school, the Palazzi family lists our teachers, who stand out as a primary reason why they continue to choose our school, as well as our faith education, values, and community. Michael shares, “We wanted our children to be learning the same values and expectations at school as we teach them at home. We have always felt that the teachers are supportive, know our children, and look out for them. It’s a network of care.” Building on this, Elizabeth explains, “It is important for our sons to see their teachers as role models living the faith, and in turn, for the teachers to support our sons’ faith development. Being able to express their faith at school and with their classmates, especially through events like First Holy Communion, is a wonderful bonding experience for our children.”
“I have really come to appreciate the prayer services because the faculty are teaching and instilling values in our children through these experiences. The messages of the prayer services are guiding our children to become good people and contributing community members.”
Grade-level prayer services and the annual Family Mass are other faith-centered traditions that the Palazzi family values. To them, the celebration of the Family Mass with the greater Holy Child community is a reflection that “you are part of something bigger.” Michael adds, “I have really come to appreciate the prayer services because the faculty are teaching and instilling values in our children through these experiences. The messages of the prayer services are guiding our children to become good people and contributing community members.” In addition, the Palazzi family’s experience of community at Holy Child has been one of great support and joy. Elizabeth describes her children’s friend’s parents as “extended family,” explaining, “We rely on each other and support one another in times of need; this is something our community excels at. We recognize that we truly need each other’s support while raising children because it is no easy task.”
Because their sons, Michael ’24, Nicholas ’26, and Joseph ’28, have a wide range of interests, the Palazzis have experienced many sports seasons, performances, and activities at Holy Child. Michael shares, “We have three very different sons, and the school really allows each of them to choose their own path based on what they are interested in. They have all enjoyed their Holy Child experience, and it speaks to the versatility of this school and the variety of opportunities available to students.” Reflecting on the past eight years as a Holy Child family and Michael’s ’24 recent graduation, Elizabeth expresses, “We could not be more thankful for the foundation that Holy Child provided him, encouraging his love of learning to continue. His confidence has grown immensely, allowing him to feel confident in the choices that he makes.” Michael adds, “We made the best decision for our family by enrolling our children here.”
Thursday, April 25, 2024
This spring, we celebrated the Festival of the Arts as an in-person event with our Holy Child families after a four-year stint as a virtual event due to the pandemic. The highly anticipated event showcased works of art by every student, Young Falcons through Grade 8, in our hallways and included several music performances by our talented choirs, ensembles, and bands. Our dedicated art teachers, Tina Riviello and Kevin Coyle, and music teachers, Erin Toscani and Jillian Gabel, curated this special evening for families and students to appreciate the fine and performing arts that are an essential part of our curriculum as well as Cornelia Connelly’s vision for education.
“For the Poetry of the Art, we must provide various occasions to allow every grade in the school to cultivate their fancy and taste.”
—Cornelia Connelly’s “Book of Studies”
At this year’s Holy Child Auction, Diamonds & Decades: Celebrating 75 Years of Brilliance, we were joined by over 240 parents, faculty, staff, and friends for a night of great conversation and eager bidding! Hosted at Union League Liberty Hill for the first time in our school’s history, attendees dined on delicious dishes made by Holy Child parent and Executive Chef Denny Santiago P’27’30 and his team. In partnership with Holy Child’s Advancement team, our Auction Chairs, Nicole Schlich P’22’24, Heather Boylan Ruggiero ’86 P’22’25, Renata Casey P’18’20’22’25, Sharon Gaffney P’21’25, and Cinde Hark P’18’21’24, and members of the Auction Committees created an atmosphere that fostered community and inspired generosity. Nearly $450,000 was raised to benefit our school — a recordbreaking number! — and $111,000 of these funds were donated to our Raise Your Paddle cause: Holy Child’s Wellbeing Program. Learn more about the Wellbeing Program on page 12. Thank you to everyone who generously participated in this year’s Auction, leading it to become a historic fundraiser for our school’s 75th anniversary year!
On July 1, 2024, Mark McConnon joined the Holy Child School at Rosemont community as our new Director of Middle School. As a middle school educator with a career spanning over two decades in Catholic and independent schools, Mark’s experiences in curriculum development, mentoring students and teachers alike, and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration are essential to his role at Holy Child as we look to strengthen our Middle School curriculum and enhance the student experience across the school. Before his first day, Mark sat down for an interview to share how his career has shaped his philosophy on leadership and how to best care for and educate today’s adolescents.
What’s your educational philosophy?
My educational philosophy has been shaped over the course of my career through experiences in and beyond the classroom. I have been challenged, supported, and inspired by my experiences as an educator, mentor, and coach, and I recognize that having support is essential for students and faculty as they learn and grow. As a leader, I have seen the impact of being present for my students and our teachers: greeting students in the hallways between classes, running alongside the cross-country team members who I coach, and simply sharing what goes on in each other’s lives is what builds relationships and trust. In learning about Cornelia Connelly, one of her quotes struck me because it reflects my approach to teaching: “In training and teaching children, it is absolutely necessary to walk step by step, to teach line by line, to practice virtue little by little, in act after act.” This reminds me that students and faculty are walking the journey of education together, and how it is important for us to continually reflect on how we need to be aware of our students’ needs, slow down, walk alongside them, and meet them where they are at this stage of their lives.
Why is Catholic education important for children’s development?
Working at Catholic schools during my career has shown me the value of a Catholic education. One of my first experiences celebrating Mass with students and colleagues was incredibly joyful because I saw my students expressing themselves through music and meaningful worship. While I provided them with one facet of
their education through teaching language arts, I was reminded that when they left my classroom, they were going off to develop other parts of themselves, including their spirituality. My experience as an educator has given me the perspective to appreciate a holistic education that focuses on development and learning beyond the traditional subjects, such as life skills and the importance of service. It feels fitting that I am joining a Catholic community where Cornelia’s teachings about holistic education are guiding our work.
What excites you about joining the community at Holy Child School at Rosemont?
I am excited to be part of Holy Child because the mission is focused and defined. This leads to clarity of purpose, meaning everyone in this community knows what the end goals are, which include a great education, fostering respect and kindness, and living our faith. Our faculty, staff, and parents are all essential to making this happen, and continuing to strengthen that partnership around our mission is essential. I feel a sense of responsibility to continue our traditions around faith and service, and I also look forward to bringing new meaning to these experiences for our students.
Friday, March 15, 2024
A tradition started by former Director of Alumni Relations Bonnie Algeo P’83’85’90’95 in the 1980s, the Alumni Career Panel for our seventh and eighth grade students serves as an important source of inspiration for our eldest students as they begin to consider what their lives will look like beyond Holy Child. This, coupled with the opportunity for our alumni to return home to Rosemont, resulted in a meaningful and reflective afternoon for everyone involved.
This spring, we welcomed five panelists, including (pictured below, left to right) Paul Mancano ’09, sports audience engagement editor at The Baltimore Banner; Olivia Calamia ’09, panel moderator and past president of the Alumni Council; Alison Tufano ’06, collections assistant for modern and contemporary art at the Philadelphia Museum of Art; Casey O’Rourke ’01 P’32, co-founder of Posterity, a company that owns and operates schools in Montgomery County, PA; Megan Nichols ’00, an ophthalmologist and vitreoretinal surgeon; and Danielle Fraider Furey ’01 P’35, physical education department chair at The Baldwin School. Our students listened to stories about resilience, trial and error, and embracing your strengths that led these alumni to discover careers that they are passionate about.
“My time at Holy Child was encouraging because it provided me with opportunities to explore different subjects and topics. It prepared me academically, and I felt ready to jump into the next phase of my education. Lean into the experiences at Holy Child because they create great memories.”
— Alison Tufano ’06
“In this community, you share the same values and learn about the importance of leadership and relationship building. Treat everyone with respect, whether that’s motivating your teammates on the field now or taking care of the employees entrusted to your care in the future.”
—Casey O’Rourke ’01 P’32
Barbara Clarke was inducted into the inaugural class of Merion Mercy Academy’s (MMA) Athletic Hall of Fame in May 2024. Barbara was MMA’s first athletic director in 1975, and dedicated 45 years to the academy.
▲ Cathy Helfrich Amsterdam is the proud grandmother of Mackenzie Grace, born in December 2023 to Catie Amsterdam Miller and Dan Miller, and Kimberly Ostermann, a rising Grade 6 Holy Child School at Rosemont student.
Peter Franconi lives in Atlanta, GA with his wife and three children. He works for Fulcrum Equity Partners.
Nicholas Franconi recently moved to Austin, TX where he is a computer engineer for NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center.
Nicole Marchetto, M.D., M.P.H., F.A.C.O.G., is a reproductive endocrinology and infertility specialist with Shady Grove Fertility in
Newark, DE. Nicole was featured in a recent issue of “Suburban Life” magazine, which highlighted her work in reproductive medicine.
▲ William Woody, S.J., a professor and Ph.D. candidate in philosophy at Boston College, is one of 14 seminary students chosen for the 2024 Fellowships at Auschwitz for the Study of Professional Ethics Seminary Program. Bill will join other graduate students for a two-week program in Germany and Poland that uses the conduct of professionals in Nazi-occupied Europe as an initial framework for approaching ethical responsibility in professionals today.
Erringer Helbling was featured in a CBS morning news segment in November 2023 for her work with Command Purpose, a foundation serving veteran women that she co-founded, and Sisters of Service. Errin is a retired Army airborne officer and serves as the vice president of federal programs with Altana Technologies in Washington, DC.
▲ Mary Anne Woody Mollica and Francesco Mollica were married on Saturday, November 11, 2023, in New York City, NY. Mary Anne’s brother, Fr. William Woody, S.J., ’03, officiated at the ceremony. Left to right: Francesco Mollica, Patrick Woody ’06, Mary Anne Woody Mollica, William Woody, S.J., ’03, Mary Lourdes Woody P’01’03’04’06, Adrienne Miller, and Daniel Woody ’01
▼ John Arena married Mary Robins on November 4, 2023, at St. John the Evangelist Roman Catholic Church in Philadelphia, PA. Left to right: Garrett McDonald ’22, Lauren Arena Gribben ’01, Mary Robins, John Arena, Diane and Mario Arena, and Josh Gribben.
▲ Erica Leigh Gosnell married Timothy Jackson on November 11, 2023. Left to right are Lindsay Gosnell Green ’00, Erica Gosnell Jackson, Tim Jackson, Tory Gosnell ’02, and Christopher Gosnell ’05
▲ Emily Tucci launched her new small business, Fox & Willow Design Studio, in November 2023, focusing on wedding stationery and lifestyle-product design. She creates custom wedding stationery suites, and her hand-drawn or hand-painted art and patterns can be found on pillows, fabric, tech accessories, and more. Check out and learn more about Emily’s creations at foxandwillowdesign.com.
▲ Bobby Loftus married Alyson Makous on March 23, 2024, at the Church of the Gesu in Philadelphia, PA. It was the rainiest day in Philadelphia’s history, but that didn’t diminish the fantastic day! Groomsmen included lifelong Holy Child School at Rosemont friends Matt Magargee (best man) and Ryan Neff
Harry Bellwoar spent the last two-and-ahalf years working in private equity in San Francisco after completing two years at Goldman Sachs. He moved back to the East Coast in March and is now working at his alma mater, Georgetown University, in its investment office, helping manage its $3 billion endowment. Harry is living in DuPont Circle, Washington, DC.
▲ Jane Gallagher is engaged to Shane Baker, of Southington, CT. A late-summer 2024 wedding in Block Island, RI, is planned.
▼ Laura Dallara got engaged to Dylan Mannion in Naples, FL, surrounded by both the Dallara and Mannion families, including Marissa ’09, Elizabeth ’13, Becky, and Charles Dallara. Their wedding is planned for May 2026.
▲ Emily Siegfried married Michael Davis on November 18, 2023, in Palm Beach, FL. Members of the bridal party included Holy Child classmates Siobhan Kelly and Nicole Stefan
▲ Sophia Tornetta stopped by her alma mater last fall to visit with Director of Athletics and Coach Maribeth McCallion. Sophia is head coach for Merion Mercy Academy’s field hockey team and is currently working at LFT Realty Group.
▲ Chip Gallagher graduated cum laude with Honors Society Distinctions from Saint Joseph’s University in May 2022 with a degree in computer science. Chip is employed as an IT analyst at Vanguard.
▲ Kelly Shaughnessy married Tyler Fisher on November 25, 2023, in the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception at Rosemont College. Kelly is a medical student at the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine in Lewisburg, WV.
▼ Sydney Wolfington earned a master of arts degree in education with a concentration in counseling and a certificate in restorative justice practice and trauma-informed care from San Diego State University in 2023.
While there, she was a member of the varsity women’s lacrosse team at the university.
▲ Holy Child classmates Jamie Clark, Tommy McHugh, John Sullivan, and Owen Preston reunited at a 2023 Christmastime gathering.
▼ David Pomeroy and Julie Mongeluzi meet up in Toronto, Canada, where they are both working and studying.
Lauren Gunn graduated from Northwestern University in May, completing her studies in theater, business institutions, and integrated marketing communications. Lauren is featured in a story on young alumni beginning on page 4.
Will Keane has actively participated in the fundraising efforts of Penn State’s Dance Marathon over the past four years. Will served as the president of his organization, Ohana, and had the privilege of being selected to dance last year.
▲ Andrew Tornetta (right) and his cofounder started SAFErgy, an app that uses the first two-pronged approach to reduce accidental allergic reactions. The app provides users with SAFErgy’s proprietary location-aware AI scanning service that can assess the risk of a potential allergic reaction when eating a prepared meal. Simultaneously, by implementing their interface at restaurants, they also incorporate their allergen-specific training and meal production protocol. Andrew got the chance to represent Wake Forest University in Tallahassee, FL, at this year’s ACC InVenture Prize competition, which aired live on local ACC PBS networks. SAFErgy also won second place last year at Wake Forest’s Center for Entrepreneurship DeacTank, and this year, they got the chance to pitch during the largest Wake Forest entrepreneurship event, Entrepalooza Demo Day. Their website, safergyapp.com, is live, and they are currently testing out a rudimentary version of their food-scanning technology.
▲ Luke Wolfington is captain of the College of the Holy Cross rugby team and is pictured (center) with his teammates. Luke is a rising senior at Holy Cross and is majoring in psychology.
Grace Wolter was elected captain of the lightweight rowing team as a junior at Georgetown University. She has been selected as a nurse extern at Main Line Health, where she is working this summer in the Labor and Delivery Unit.
Emma Woodcock was one of six people chosen out of 500 applicants to intern for the Philadelphia Eagles this summer. She will also be working for the Eagles Youth Football Academy. Emma is a rising senior at St. John’s University in New York, where she is majoring in sports management.
Laura Wallon, a rising junior at Widener University, has been elected president of the Student Government Association. She is also a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Tau Alpha Chapter; serves as the social media chair for Latinos Unidos and Black Student Union; and is a mentor for freshmen students in the Pride Mentoring Program. Laura is involved in the Summer Undergraduate Research and Creative Activities Program, researching chemical and cognitive behavior in flies. She is the recipient of an Apogee Scholarship and attended NACA Live 2024 as a member of the National Association for Campus Activities,
representing Widener University. Laura is featured in a story on young alumni beginning on page 4.
Courtney Wolfington recently completed her sophomore year at Denison University, where she is a health and exercise major and plays lacrosse.
Teddy Fenlin, a graduate of St. Joseph’s Preparatory School, will attend Hobart College in the fall to study economics and to pursue his goal of playing Division 1 lacrosse for the Statesmen.
Mariel O’Leary is a rising sophomore at Saint Joseph’s University, majoring in political science. This spring, she participated in an internship with the Maguire Art Museum, curating the exhibition “Virgins, Goddesses, and Barbie: The Intersection of Female Beauty with Art, Culture, and Industry.” Mariel also received a full scholarship to The Washington Center’s weeklong National Security Seminar in May 2024, in Washington, D.C.
Matthew Wolfington is a postgraduate student at TrinityPawling School in Pawling, NY, and is committed to play lacrosse at Towson University this fall.
Isabella Casey was named Inter-Academic Athletic League’s Most Valuable Player for basketball in February 2024. She is a threetime, all-league selection. Isabella graduated from Germantown Academy and will play basketball at Bucknell University beginning this fall.
Jack Gallagher, a recent graduate of Harriton High School, is the recipient of the Morehead-Cain Scholarship at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, a four-year undergraduate scholarship awarded to “a community of dynamic, purpose-driven leaders.” During his time at Harriton, Jack was the president of both the Ronald McDonald Charity Club and the Investments Club. Additionally, he served as the director of tutoring at Main Line Math Project, an organization committed to offering complimentary tutoring services to students at various academic levels. Jack served as captain of the varsity lacrosse and golf teams, earning numerous all-league awards. At UNC Chapel Hill, Jack plans to study economics and business administration.
Nick Gianoukos recently graduated from St. Joseph’s Preparatory School and was the Student Council president in his senior year. He was recognized as a commended student by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. Nick is featured in a story on young alumni beginning on page 4.
Gabe Ketchum was elected to the student leadership group Esse Quam Videri (EQV) Society at the Episcopal Academy in May 2023. This honor allowed him to serve as a leader for his peers while seeking “to cultivate a positive and inclusive culture in the school community” by planning and executing initiatives that foster “a sense of unity, positivity, and pride.” He received Washington and Lee University’s Johnson Scholarship, which recognizes and rewards students on the basis of academic achievement and demonstrated leadership and integrity. The Johnson Scholarship is one of the premier merit-based scholarship programs in the country. Gabe is featured in a story on young alumni beginning on page 4.
Claire Lingle, a recent graduate of the Agnes Irwin School, will attend the University of Virginia (UVA) this fall and has committed to rowing for UVA.
Caroline Parillo was named a National Merit Commended Student last fall and recently graduated from the Baldwin School. She was presented with The Baldwin School Class of 2003 Award for her academics and leadership and the Escritoras del Mundo Hispano Award for her work in Spanish. Caroline will attend the University of Notre Dame this fall as part of the Glynn Family Honors Program, majoring in neuroscience.
▲ Milly Fenlin (center) and two of her Academy of Notre Dame classmates led “Team Stronger for a Cause,” benefiting the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS), and exceeded their goal by raising just over $63,000. The total raised by the teams was more than $471,000. Their efforts were celebrated at the LLS 2024 Greater Philadelphia Student Visionary Grand Finale at Brooklyn Bowl in Philadelphia, PA, in March 2024.
Gwen Miller, having just completed her freshman year at the Academy of Notre Dame, joined the Arts Scholars Program with a proficiency in writing. She also was in Devon Preparatory School’s production of “The SpongeBob Musical” in March 2024.
Eight alumni parents, whose Grade 2 children celebrated their First Holy Communion on April 27, 2024, pose for a photo with their children and former second grade teacher Mrs. Cassidy. Back row left to right: Paul Nolen ’95, Persia Ali ’96, Joanne Pettit Robinson ’94, Lauren Keleher Lashinger ’93, Mollie Manno Miller ’99, Katie Manno Pagliaro ’94, Anne Schoemaker Vazquez ’95, and Mike Finelli ’89. Middle row left to right: Christopher Nolen, London Ali, Mia Lashinger, Luca Pagliaro, Reagan Vazquez, and Devon Finelli. Front row left to right: Allie Robinson, Judy Wankmiller Cassidy ’59 P’85’86’90’93, and Maddie Miller.
Kevin George Crenny April 2024
Kevin Crenny ’03 and Helen Marie Berg
Ruby Ann Miller
March 2024
Andrew Miller ’04 and Margaret Jones Miller
Claire Penelope Brennan
December 2023
Ted Brennan ’07 and Pina Bueti Brennan
Louise Indie Lawrence
October 2023
Brendan Lawrence ’04 and Nicole Kelly
Austin Francis Devine with big brother Pearse Devine
November 2023
Patrick Devine ’01 and Suzie Devine
William Mark Jesse
December 2023
Allegra O’Neill Jesse ’03 and Mark Jesse
Natalie Zechman
December 2023
Jean Adelberger Zechman ’05 and Harry Zechman
Each year, we reach out to our community and ask for their support of The Holy Child Fund. As is the case for most nonprofit organizations, our annual appeal is the backbone of our philanthropic efforts and benefits every student, teacher, and staff member. These donations provide us with the necessary resources needed to continue Cornelia Connelly’s vision for education. In addition to supporting the operating budget of the school, these gifts help us offer a curriculum that is responsive to the needs of our children; attract and retain stellar educators; maintain a modern, safe campus; and support our tuition assistance program for families who would otherwise be unable to attend.
Thank you to the current and past parents, alumni, grandparents, and friends who contributed toward our goal of $300,000! Your continued commitment to this wonderful school “pays it forward,” benefitting our students who will become tomorrow’s leaders and who we are raising in this “Joyful Catholic Community.”
All gifts made prior to the end of the fiscal year (June 30, 2024) will be recognized in the Annual Report of Gifts published in the fall. To make a gift online, visit HolyChildRosemont.org/OnlineGiving or donate via Venmo @HolyChildRosemont
EITC/OSTC: Turning your tax dollars into donations for Holy Child School at Rosemont!
If you pay Pennsylvania state taxes, the Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) and Opportunity Scholarship Tax Credit (OSTC) programs enable you to redirect a portion of your tax liability to support students who qualify for financial assistance at Holy Child. The process is easy and the benefits are life-changing! Each year there is an increased demand for tuition assistance from families who desire a Holy Child education for their children. The EITC/OSTC program provides an opportunity for donors to make a significant gift to the school with very little out-of-pocket cost. For more information, visit our website at HolyChildRosemont.org/EITC
For more information on The Holy Child Fund or the EITC/OSTC program, please contact Director of Advancement Jill Gregori at jgregori@HolyChildRosemont.org
Diane Shepaniak Base ’77 — December 18, 2023 — sister of Carol Shepaniak Smith ’74
Thomas Meeks ’57 — December 18, 2023 — brother of Carol Meeks ’58, Helen Meeks Horstmann ’59, and Mary Meeks Kessler ’61
Nina Murphy ’56 — September 22, 2023 — sister of Wm. Mark Murphy ’58
Frank Porter ’65 — May 17, 2024 — brother of Anne ’67, Andrew ’70, Beth ’73, Claire ’74, Patsy, and Sheila Porter
Alice Baumgartner — February 1, 2024 — grandmother of Julie Mongeluzi ’15
Mildred Breck — January 1, 2024 — grandmother of Lauren ’16 and Nicole ’18 Gunn
William Campbell — November 19, 2023 — grandfather of Brian ’97 and Bill ’00 Tierney
Mary Clare Cooper — April 28, 2024 — former faculty member
Mary Corrigan — May 25, 2024 — grandmother of Rocky ’24 and Dwyer ’23 Corrigan
Daniel Curran — April 14, 2024 — grandfather of Anne ’15, Daniel ’17, Grace ’19, and Sean ’22 Curran
Regina Feeney — May 16, 2024 — grandmother of Nicholas Mensack ’12
Katherine Keenan — February 6, 2024 — grandmother of Patrick Keenan ’14
Joseph Lynch — March 31, 2024 — husband of Trish Horstmann Lynch ’56
Matthew McCloskey — January 3, 2024 — father of Colleen McCloskey von Ohlen ’78, Patrick McCloskey ’80, Kathy McCloskey Neff ’82, Andrew McCloskey ’84, Brian McCloskey ’87, and Sean McCloskey ’95, and grandfather of Ryan ’10, Keenan ’11, and MaryKate ’13 Neff
Frank Moran — May 2, 2024 — grandfather of John ’20, Frankie ’24, and Mary ’26 Rouse
Peter Olson — March 29, 2024 — husband of Mary Templeton ’60
Head of School
Brian McBride
Director of Admissions and Enrollment
Kathy Barton
Director of Communications and Marketing
Kelsey Poholsky Coogan
Communications and Marketing Associate
Victoria Boland
Director of Institutional Advancement
Jill Gregori
Director of Alumni and Constituent Relations
Tina Abate
Parents’ Liaison
Allison Emery
Advancement Assistant
Sarah Stirzel Cuzzolina
Save the Date!
Please mark your calendars for the following events in the first half of the 2024-2025 school year.
Contributors
Kelsey Poholsky Coogan, Victoria Boland, Tina Abate
Photographers
Victoria Boland, Kelsey Poholsky Coogan, Tessa Marie Images, Hunter Nichols
Productions
Graphic Design
Kelsh Wilson Design
Homecoming Field Hockey Games Friday, October 18, 2024
Homecoming and Fall Festival Saturday, October 19, 2024
All-Class Alumni Reunion Saturday, October 19, 2024
All Souls Mass Monday, November 4, 2024
Golden Alumni Reunion Luncheon for the Classes of 1956-1975 Friday, December 6, 2024
Christmas Concert Thursday, December 19, 2024
1344 Montgomery Avenue
Rosemont, PA 19010
610-922-1000
Parents of Alumni
If this issue is addressed to your son or daughter who no longer maintains a permanent address in your home, please send their new address to:
Office of Advancement, Holy Child School at Rosemont 1344 Montgomery Avenue, Rosemont, PA 19010 or send it by email to: alumni@HolyChildRosemont.org
