Cachet Magazine: Fall 2021

Cachet

Holy Child School at Rosemont Magazine | Fall 2021

Growing Our Campus A Vision Fulfilled

Pictured: A 1960s squad of Holy Child football players receiving a pep talk from Coach Paul Bowersock On The Cover: Will Kelly ’22 and Jayden Nelson ’22, our Student Council Co-Presidents, symbolically opened our new Fitzgerald Performing Arts and Athletic Center at our ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, October 15, 2021.

Contents Departments

Features

A Message from Tom Lengel 2

Growing Our Campus 4

Around School 4

Milestone Moments 12

Alumni 19

A Conversation with Helen Gambescia 16 Introducing the SuperKids Reading Program 17 Alumni Updates 19

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Around School

A Message From Tom Lengel Dear Friends and Supporters, In a conversation I had this summer with our Board chair, Arnie Schneider P’10’12’15, he said essentially that “Holy Child has always been a great school; it’s gratifying that people are now more aware of that reputation. Clearly, we are no longer ‘the hidden gem’ on the Main Line.”

I couldn’t agree more with that assessment. The school and the Holy Child brand and reputation have never been stronger. Ours is clearly a school that is growing and expanding: • Physically, with our campus expansion. This project will double the size of our campus and add much-needed space for outdoor education, with the creation of the N.E.S.T. (Nature, Exploration, and Science Territory); for the performing arts, with a new stage and acoustically designed space for plays and performances; and for athletics, with a regulation-size, multi-sport turf field.

• In enrollment, which was at an all-time high of 351 children at the start of the school year. (We have, at most, a handful of spaces available.) That is a testimony to the strength of our program and the outstanding “word of mouth” from you and our other constituents that encourages families to consider us for their child’s education.

• In terms of racial and ethnic diversity. Since I became head of school in 2013, the proportion of students who self-identify as people of color has doubled, from 13% to 26%. I am quite proud of that increase.

You will read more about the school’s growth in this edition of Cachet magazine. And in these pages, you will also learn broadly about the personal growth that our students experience in day-to-day interactions with one another, with our teachers, and by way of the traditions that help define a Holy Child School at Rosemont education.

Finally, as proud as I am of the strong position that the school is in currently, I remind myself of Cornelia Connelly’s exhortation, “Let us never think we have done enough.” With your continued support and God’s grace, let us continue to be a school that honors and lives our Holy Child mission.

Sincerely,

Thomas G. Lengel P’12 Head of School

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Around School

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Around School

Growing Our Campus A Vision Fulfilled

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Cornelia Connelly emboldened us to “meet the wants of the age,” and we strive to fulfill her vision, and the words of our school’s mission statement, through growth in many forms. As is evident in the physical pages of this publication, our classrooms, and our campus, we are evolving as a school community to best serve, nurture, and teach the students entrusted to our care. Expanding our physical campus presence is one example of growth that is immediately noticeable when you visit campus. At the same time, there is forward-thinking change happening within our curriculum through the adoption of an evidence-based literacy program and the introduction of new, outdoor learning experiences. These forms of growth, among others, are points of pride for Holy Child School at Rosemont, particularly for the faculty who have been with our school through the years. “Although the school has grown in size and enrollment, we adhere to the hallmarks of a Holy Child education that Cornelia Connelly set forth for us,” reflects Jeanne Marie Blair P’96’99’04, director of Lower School and a past parent herself.

“Every physical campus expansion that the school has experienced affords us newfound ways to gather, learn, and play as a community.”

Around School

New Opportunities for All Students Expanding our campus is no small feat. Through the Campus Expansion project, we will double the footprint of our campus. This growth benefits all our learners, from Early Childhood to Middle School, by offering new opportunities for exploration and collaboration. Already complete are the largest additions to the campus, both in size and impact — the Fitzgerald Performing Arts and Athletic Center (Fitz PAAC) and Falcon Field, a regulation-sized, multi-sport turf field. The Fitz PAAC realizes an important need: providing our school with a comfortable gathering space for the entire school community — 351 students plus all faculty and staff — for performances, prayer services, and assemblies. With community being at the heart of our school, bringing everyone together in one space is an admirable achievement made possible by this expansion. “The beauty of growing our campus is the way that it benefits every child in our school community,” shares Rita Smith P’06’08, our director of Early Childhood and a prekindergarten teacher. “The Campus Expansion is yet another example of our intentionality, as it provides logistical solutions for gatherings and for classes, and offers new resources to learners of all ages.”

Design and function were top of mind during the planning for these new spaces on campus. The design of the Fitz PAAC makes it well-suited for creative endeavors: The space marries natural light and airiness with state-of-the-art sound-absorbing technology to offer a proper performance space for our Spring Play. Outside of all-school gatherings and performances, the Fitz PAAC will serve as an auxiliary recreation space for sports and physical education. Falcon Field is the largest turf field in the Catholic Academy League, and allows our field hockey and football teams to host home games for the first time in the school’s history. Both spaces hosted notable school traditions shortly after their completion: Homecoming athletic games and festivities occurred on Falcon Field (October 30) and the Fitz PAAC hosted our annual Thanksgiving prayer service (November 23).

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Around School

Beyond these additions, the Campus Expansion benefitted the school community at the beginning of the 2020–2021 school year with the creation of the Early Childhood Learning Suite and the relocation of the Schneider Library. The renovated kindergarten classrooms, as part of the Early Childhood Learning Suite, offer our youngest learners larger spaces that are best-suited for play and connectivity to the outdoors. With convenient playground access, abundant natural light, and close proximity to other Early Childhood classes, the location is both intentional and ideal for our kindergarten students. Due to this renovation, our Schneider Library relocated to its new home on the Lower School floor, where it is easily accessible for Lower and Middle School students. The space maintains its bright, open-concept design for children of any age to explore literary works and hone research skills.

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Experiencing Learning in New Ways At the same time that our campus is experiencing change, we also understand that developments are happening within the way that students learn; as a result, our student-centered approach to teaching must adapt to fit these needs. The newest scientific findings on brain development inform the approach offered by the SuperKids Reading Program, which we have adopted for students in kindergarten through Grade 2, beginning this year. SuperKids employs evidence-based practices, following a Science of Reading model, to develop the parts of the brain that are used for efficient and effective reading, while capturing the interest of young readers with adventurous stories and characters. “I am excited about the new SuperKids Reading Program because it meets children where they are and takes into account how the brain learns to read,” says Mollie Miller P’29’30’33, our Middle School Learning Specialist and a current parent of Early Childhood and Lower School students herself. “SuperKids is systematically structured to teach reading skills in a hierarchy that consistently builds upon previously mastered skills. Through this, we are teaching students how to read efficiently and creating successful readers.”

Read more about the SuperKids Reading Program on page 17.

Around School

“Design and function were top of mind on campus when planning for these new spaces.”

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Around School

Feeding Curious Minds

Building a stronger foundation for knowledge and skill acquisition is a benefit of experiential learning that Kate Logan, science teacher for Grades 1–5, sees in her classroom each school year. “Experiential learning makes the learning process more meaningful and memorable for students because they are actively engaged,” shares Kate. “Year after year, I see students recalling concepts that they have previously learned and relating them to the topic of our current lesson. Watching them make these connections for themselves is evidence of the impact that hands-on learning can have.” The upcoming creation of the Nature, Exploration, and Science Territory (N.E.S.T.) connects two essential elements of education in this age: experiential and outdoor learning. The N.E.S.T. will be outfitted with a pond, native plant species, and an accessible walkway, making it an optimal outdoor learning facility for Early Childhood and Lower School students. To cultivate curious and engaged learners, this outdoor learning space will provide young students with hands-on experiences engaging all the senses.

A Blossoming Community Together with our evolving campus and curriculum, our community has grown too: Entering the 2021–2022 academic year, we reached an enrollment record of 351 total students. We welcomed new children and families across all divisions, reinforcing the health of our school in the midst of a pandemic. Yet, our mission to deliver an engaging curriculum in a joyful, affirming community remains the same. Small class sizes, collaborative projects, the Buddy Program, and Middle School Advisory Groups create close connections between and among students and teachers.

As we enter this new age of our school’s history, we remain focused on and committed to the core tenets of the Holy Child Goals that guide us — especially community. Whether it be celebrating an aha moment in the classroom, gathering together as a school for prayer, or applauding a performance by our peers, our recent growth has already provided us with so many new and joyful experiences, and we look forward to more of these moments together.

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Nourishing our students is an important part of each school day, as healthy and fresh meal and snack options fuel their focus and playtime. We have furthered our commitment to nourishing young learners through the introduction of an all-new dining experience, provided by CulinArt Group.

They offer efficient preorder and payment systems, which allow children more time to relax, enjoy their meals, and play with friends at recess. CulinArt enlists the help of registered dieticians to ensure that menus meet state USDA guidelines for nutritious meals, including vegetarian and vegan options, to support the growing minds and bodies of our students.

Around School

Looking Back at Cachet

1999

This issue of Cachet ushers the magazine into a new era of design; however, at this juncture, it is equally relevant to reflect on the publication’s origin and how it has grown over the years. The first issue of Cachet debuted in 1997 as The RSHC Cachet, incorporating the acronym that represented the school’s original name, Rosemont School of the Holy Child. The inside front cover of the first issue shared the meaning of the publication’s name: Cachet is a French word meaning ticket; the Merriam-

Webster definition is “an indication of approval or a characteristic feature conferring prestige.” To the Holy Child family, a cachet is the interim report on a student’s progress. Our publication, Cachet, will give you a report on the events of the school and its graduates.

1997

Our newly redesigned publication will continue to live out the mission of Cachet, and we hope that these pages full of our joyful students and successful alumni give you a sense of our community’s health and progress.

2001

2003 2012

2008

2021

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Around School

Hallmarks of

Holy Child

Grade 2 concludes their year of sacramental milestones with a closing mass for their parents at the end of the 2020–2021 academic year.

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Around AroundSchool School

1. Grade 1 encourages us to be more sustainable during their Earth Day Play.

2. Grade 4 participates in a game of tug-of-war during Field Day. 3. Grade 5 leaves for Camp Mason, their first Middle School overnight trip.

4. Students in Grade 6 perform a song during their prayer service.

5. Ms. Hunt helps Kindergarteners as they release their butterflies after observing their growth from chrysalises.

2.

6. Grade 7 takes us on a journey around the globe through song and dance during their Walk Around the World presentation.

7. Each year, PreKindergarten hosts a lemonade stand to raise money for Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation.

8. Students in Grade 8 perform The Little Mermaid Jr. during our annual Middle School Spring Play.

9. Two Falcons students giggle while blowing bubbles during Early Childhood’s Bubble Party.

1.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

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Around School

Milestone Mom

Celebrating Our Faith On Saturday, April 24, 2021, our community gathered to support thirty-two members of the Class of 2027 as they received the Sacrament of First Holy Communion at St. Thomas of Villanova Rosemont Chapel. Each of the students participated in the Mass, 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 Wednesday, January 13, 2021, at St. Thomas of Villanova Rosemont Chapel.

Overall, the 2020–2021 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 students every year, and witnessing these faith commitments within our community reminds us how we may continue to grow in our faith.

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ments

Around School

Celebrating Our Achievements Our Commencement Mass and graduation ceremony were held at St. Thomas of Villanova Rosemont Chapel to celebrate the achievements of the Class of 2021 and welcome them as the newest alumni of Holy Child School at Rosemont. On Thursday, June 3, twenty-three Grade 8 students received their diplomas with their families and our faculty and staff in attendance. The joyful celebration included speeches from our Student Council Co-Presidents, Meg South ’21 and Matthew Hark ’21, who spoke about their favorite Holy Child traditions and memories; a Gospel Acclamation song performed by Anya Berlanska ’21 and Cara McGowan ’21; and the Communion Meditation, played on the piano

by Liam Shields ’21. In addition, five students were recognized as scholarship recipients to area high schools for their academic excellence. Our community is immensely proud of the leadership and grace shown through the actions of the Class of 2021, and we wish them well on their next steps in education.

A noteworthy moment at the graduation ceremony brought together members of the Shields family. Our former Board Chair, Bob Shields P’83’86’89’93 GP’19’19’21, attended in support of his grandson, Liam Shields ’21, and had the honor of awarding Liam his diploma.

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Around School

A Day in the Life

of a Holy Child Student

2.

Let’s begin the day

with some arts and crafts

1.

Welcome back

to Holy Child School at Rosemont!

1. Carline — Grade 1 2. Center Time — Falcons 3. Language Arts — Grade 5 4. Library — Grade 3 5. Science — Grade 1 6. Recess — Lower & Middle School 7. Music — Kindergarten

Shhh… time for quiet reading

in library class

8. Religion — Grade 4 9. Sports Practice — Varsity Football

3.

Off to learn

in language arts

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Around School

Testing our hypotheses

in science class

5.

7.

Expressing ourselves

through song and rhythm

in music class

6.

After lunch,

it’s time to play!

8.

Gathering as a community

to celebrate our faith 4.

9.

Athletics and clubs keep us active

beyond the school day

See you tomorrow!

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Around School

A Conversation with

Helen Gambescia

Little About A Helen Gambescia Favorite Food: Fresh grilled tuna with a side of asparagus

Hobbies: Swimming, biking, exercising, spending time at the shore, and watching baseball Fun Fact: She enjoys snowboarding Bucket List: She would love to visit Alaska and watch the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, and to visit Hawaii Favorite Cornelia Connelly Quote: “Trust the children and never let your confidence in them be easily shaken.

Confidence begets confidence.”

The most rewarding part about teaching third graders, especially at Holy Child, is watching the children grow and develop into young learners. I develop a program to best meet the needs of the children, and I hope to instill in them a love of learning and reading.

I encourage them to apply strategies and concepts learned in previous grades that will aid them in accomplishing tasks and assignments in our class. I love when they have an aha moment and realize how it all relates — it’s priceless.

Helen Gambescia P’94 ’98

What brings you joy about teaching Grade 3?

I have taught a range of grades — PreKindergarten to Kindergarten to Middle School — and as much as I enjoyed those opportunities and learned a lot, Grade 3 is my favorite. Third graders come in with an insatiable curiosity and eagerness to learn, and they make me smile! I am blessed to see the benefits of all they learned in previous grades, and the teachers that they had before they reached Grade 3 are rock stars to me. In my classroom, the students are beginning to discover new ideas for themselves, and they are ready to be independent learners.

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How else have you been involved with the Holy Child community?

I was a field hockey coach at Holy Child for 20 years — and we had a few championships during my time as a coach!

Since the beginning of my time here, I have helped with the Middle School Spring Play, alongside Judy Cassidy, in many capacities.

Both opportunities have allowed me to see children that I have taught over the years as they grow and become involved in new activities, and blossom into doing what they love. It has been a joy to see how these activities provide students with a sense of camaraderie as they work toward a common goal, which builds community among the team or cast. In addition, I have taken part in the technology program here because I have wanted to learn as much as possible to bring new information to our students, and I have been a member of the Mission Effectiveness Committee (MEC) for the Holy Child Network of Schools.

What was your experience serving on the Mission Effectiveness Committee for the Holy Child Network of Schools?

The Mission Effectiveness Committee team is usually a three-year commitment, and I have been a member now for eight years, including this past year when we hosted the first-ever virtual MEC team! The Mission Effectiveness process allows each school in the Holy Child Network of Schools to conduct a self-study and evaluation surrounding the Goals of Holy Child schools. Through this process, the MEC team is composed of people from different Holy Child schools, and it has been wonderful to be part of the MEC team because we have the chance to visit other schools and meet fellow teachers in the Holy Child Network.

When you walk into any of the Holy Child schools, you feel that same connection that you do with your own school because we are all bound together by the same mission and goals. I especially enjoy the recommitment ceremony, which marks the end of a MEC team visit, because it’s a time to reflect, to celebrate the school’s accomplishments, and to highlight areas of opportunity for the school community to focus on.

Around School

Developing Our Approach: Introducing the SuperKids Reading Program Resources to learn more about the Science of Reading Cultivating curiosity in the minds of young learners is part of the educational philosophy at Holy Child School at Rosemont, and our faculty mirror this inquisitiveness by exploring the latest research on teaching methods. In 2019, this curiosity turned toward current research about teaching literacy, which has significantly shifted in the past decades. Holy Child had used the same reading program for several years, and, with the goal of identifying an evidence-based reading program to benefit our students, our Lower School faculty and administrators formed the Reading Task Force. Brooke Choate P’23’26, our Lower School Learning Specialist, was a member of the task force and eagerly dove into the research on reading and the brain. “We spent over a year researching and educating ourselves on how students learn to read,” shared Brooke. “We found that learning to read is not a natural process, like learning to speak. Therefore, choosing a new reading program that supported this brain research was of utmost importance.”

Neuroscience and psychology research has found that the critical developmental years, when foundational reading skills need to be taught and learned, are from kindergarten through second grade.

The Reading Task Force prioritized implementing a new reading program in these grades that would apply the best approach to literacy instruction. Scientific findings about brain regions associated with language, speaking, and reading have shifted literacy instruction models. The previous model of instruction, Balanced Literacy, favored independent reading and memorizing sight words. However, a new model called Structured Literacy emerged that emphasized explicit and systematic instruction of phonics, and sequential literacy skill development. The SuperKids Reading Program is founded on the evidence-based methods of Structured Literacy and is beneficial for all levels of readers. For these reasons, the program stood out among the available options.

“The approach offered by SuperKids is intentional because they recognize the importance of phonics instruction at a time when

• The Reading League, “a national education nonprofit led by educators and reading experts dedicated to... the future of literacy education,” offers articles, newsletters, and podcast suggestions on their website at thereadingleague.org • Science of Reading: The Podcast can be found on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts

children’s neural circuitry is still developing,” explained Brooke.

“By third grade, the groundwork for reading has been laid, and children continue building upon their skills while also reading to learn other subjects.”

Beyond its benefits as an evidence-based program, SuperKids provides young learners with a motivating framework, captivating their attention with fun, relatable characters. The boys and girls of SuperKids have unique personalities, interests, and traits.

Characters are introduced in kindergarten and then become models for new skills and concepts in Grades 1 and 2. An additional benefit is the SuperKids Catholic Crosswalk, which authentically integrates Catholic virtues, values, and scripture verses into reading and language arts coursework at Holy Child.

The 2021–2022 academic year marks the launch of the SuperKids Reading Program in kindergarten through Grade 2 at Holy Child.

Additionally, the Reading Task Force has been reimagined as a professional development working group called Mind Brain Education. As a group member, Brooke shared that they “read and discuss the practices of teaching in order to appeal to the age and brain development of the students in their classrooms.”

This continued investment in the latest research on teaching and instruction is evidence of our faculty’s commitment to delivering an effective curriculum. Speaking on the topic of growth, Brooke reflected on how the program will broadly serve students beyond their early education. “SuperKids offers so much to our students, and because of its intentional approach, it creates an accessible avenue for children to open up any book and dive right in.”

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Around School

The Ferreira Family:

“intention to keep children as children,” which they both see as a benefit of the Preschool through Grade 8 academic experience offered by Holy Child. “We had looked forward to joining a faith-based community that valued a strong education, both personally and academically, for young minds,” remarked David. As current parents, Beth described the amazing feeling accompanying the realization that “the teachers know your children well” because they speak knowledgeably about each child’s strengths.

Why We Are a Holy Child Family For the Ferreira family, one of their earliest memories of Holy Child School at Rosemont was an experience of joy, for their eldest son and for them as proud parents, at the annual Talent Show. “As a first grader, John was up on stage, smiling and playing away on the drums,” Beth remembered. “Seeing him feel so comfortable, despite the large audience, said a lot about the confidence and independence the school instills in our children.” This is one of many memories that came to mind as the family fondly reflected on what Holy Child has meant to them, including two of their three sons, John and Michael. “It was an easy transition for Michael when he joined Holy Child in kindergarten. It felt wonderful to see him be so excited and comfortable when he started here,” recalled David.

The Ferreira family discovered Holy Child School at Rosemont following a move from Center City to the Main Line in 2016.

The family sought a private, Catholic, coeducational school for their children, and while Holy Child met all of those criteria, they credit their on-campus experience with having a significant impact on their decision. During their admissions visit, the Ferreira family sensed the joyful affirming environment at Holy Child and described it as a familial, home-like atmosphere. “We wanted to find a community,” shared David.

“Our visit showed us that Holy Child was the clear choice. We spoke with admissions, teachers, and administrators, who all took the time to answer our questions.” With two of their three sons enrolled, they look forward to enrolling their third son, Brian, next year as a kindergartener.

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The Ferreira Family (clockwise): David, Beth, Michael ’29, Brian, and John ’27.

Looking ahead, the family eagerly awaits all the traditions and memories that they will make at Holy Child. “The boys already cannot wait to do so many activities in the future, like chess club, Camp Mason in fifth grade, and football,” Beth said.

Ever since John’s debut as a drummer in the talent show two years ago, they look forward to the possibility of seeing all three of their sons participate someday. As Beth explained, “It gives us mixed feelings of sadness, knowing that they are growing older, and excitement as they have all of these new experiences at Holy Child.”

Their family is grateful for what it means to be part of the Holy Child community, especially during times of change both intentional and unintentional. As parents, they feel fortunate that they are “in a time when all three children will enjoy the benefits of the Campus Expansion throughout grade school.” The intentionality of the expansion is apparent, and as Beth described, “Holy Child accounted for the whole community when making these plans by covering so many educational elements. They nailed it.” At the same time, unexpected change came with the onset of the global pandemic in 2020. Beth and David reflected on how the school “stepped up to the plate” to continue providing a quality academic experience and how appreciative they are of the school’s leadership, including the Pandemic Advisory Council. David shared, “We are grateful to the community that has been prioritizing safety so that we may all stay in school. It’s a true testament to what can be achieved when everyone shares the same goal.”

Beth agreed. “Holy Child gave us bright, uplifting moments during the pandemic.

The school preserved a sense of community by reimagining many traditions.”

“ We had looked forward to joining a faith-based community that valued a strong education, both personally and academically, for young minds.”

For many reasons, Holy Child was the right fit for the Ferreira family. What resonated with David initially was the school’s

As a first grader, John ’27 played the drums at the talent show in February 2020.

Alumni

Why We Continue to Support Holy Child The Fitzgerald Family

“ Holy Child School at Rosemont is far more than a school; it’s a family.” overarching mission, Ward added, “Shared values keep people together, that is a source of strength in a community.

Holy Child is a place where you can find families, teachers, faculty, and staff who share and work toward the same values.” As Ward and Kathy recounted stories of their children’s friends and teammates, supportive teachers, and the home-like environment offered by the school, a common thread emerged. Kathy best summed up these memories when she said, “Holy Child School at Rosemont is far more than a school; it’s a family.”

Francie ’08, Maggie ’10, Teddy ’12, Kathy, and Ward Fitzgerald.

At Holy Child School at Rosemont, we believe that happy children learn better, and based on the experiences of the Fitzgerald family, parents Ward and Kathy affirmed that Holy Child was a happy, joyful, and faith-filled place for their three children as well. “Holy Child made this a really special place for our children where they were happy to go to school,” reflected Ward with fondness.

“It was important to us that the school provided a nurturing environment for children and did not ask them to grow up too fast. Holy Child allows children to be children.” The Fitzgerald children, Francie, Maggie, and Teddy, all attended Holy Child, and through their involvement in the performing arts, athletics, and annual traditions, the family grew closer to the community and the mission of our school. Ward recalled the impact that the school had on his children, “Holy Child was influential in allowing them to pursue their own interests and gifts. The community supports all children in developing their talents by creating a loving, affirming environment where they can thrive.”

Community was a memorable and important part of their family’s experience at Holy Child. “We created so many friendships there,” shared Kathy. It is evident that they are still in touch with close friends from the community too, as she continued, “We are so proud of all the pursuits our children’s peers from Holy Child are focused on now.” Reflecting on the school’s commitment to fostering community through celebrations, events, and the

One of the most important aspects of the school that resonated with the Fitzgerald family is its Catholic foundation. Spiritual life at the school was “a catalyst” for the way their children grew in their faith, and the family warmly remembers many faith-filled traditions. From celebrating masses and the Sacrament of Holy Communion to spending time with the Sisters of the Holy Child Jesus at New Sharon, these meaningful moments at Holy Child stood out to Ward and Kathy in their experience as parents. Ward emphasized, “The Sisters of the Holy Child Jesus are the roots in the foundation of this school. We felt a great level of gratitude to them because they are such an important part of the community.”

These experiences — of tradition, community, and faith — were influential in Ward and Kathy’s decision to give a transformational gift to the school’s Campus Expansion Project. The new Fitzgerald Performing Arts and Athletic Center will be home to performances, athletics, and celebrations of faith for years to come. It is a gathering space for the community, especially families, to enjoy.

“We were the beneficiaries, and our children were the beneficiaries, of the charity and generosity of everyone who came before us,” reflected Ward. “We feel it is important that we make it possible for the next generations to have the same type of institution, one that is linked to the Catholic mission and centered on helping children excel by using their gifts to their greatest ability.” Kathy added, “You can search high and low, and you will never find a better Catholic school than Holy Child. We believe deeply in Catholic education, and I can’t think of a better school to give to.”

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Alumni

Alumni Events

Our Alumni and Past Parent Beach Party took place on August 7, 2021, at The Princeton in Avalon, NJ. STANDING (left to right): Bob Mitchell P’16’21, Lauren Yeagley ’10, Meghan Brennan ’10, Kate Finegan Moser ’98 P’28’29, TR Moser P’28’29, Chris Shields ’83 P’19’21, Wenda Brennan P’04’07’10, Ed Brennan P’04’07’10, Megan Trost P’22’24, Keith Trost P’22’24, Helen Gambescia P’94’98, Tina Abate P’07’11, Mary K Shields P’83’86’89’93 GP’19’19’21, and Bob Shields P’83’86’89’93 GP’19’19’21.

SEATED (left to right): Nancy Mitchell P’16’21, Teri Shields P’19’21, Kathleen Shields Anderson ’93, and Mary Rafferty Petroni ’98 P’24’27.

On Thursday, October 14, 2021, select members of the Holy Child at Rosemont community gathered in the Fitzgerald Performing Arts and Athletic Center to celebrate and kick off the public phase of The Campaign for Holy Child: Inspiring Joyful Excellence.

Learn more about the campaign on the inside back cover.

Reveling in the excitement of seeing the new Fitzgerald Performing Arts and Athletic Center for the first time are (from left to right) Jim Barrett P’89’92’98’00, former trustee and past parent; Tara Hayden Buchakjian ‘97, alumni, trustee, and the Campaign for Holy Child co-vice chair, and Jeff Buchakjian P’26’27’29.

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Alumni

Alumni Panels

In May 2021, four college-aged Holy Child alumni joined us virtually to speak to the Class of 2021 about their educational experiences and how Holy Child School at Rosemont impacted their lives. Olivia Calamia ’09, president of our Alumni Association, served as the moderator and shared her insights as well.

This past September, four high school-aged alumni shared their experiences about moving on to high school with our current Grade 8 students. Thank you to the alumni who participated in both panels.

“Be confident. Holy Child will lead

you on the right path.”

Olivia Calamia ’09 Panel Moderator May 2021 President, Holy Child School at Rosemont Alumni Association Loyola University of Maryland

College Panelists / May 2021

Marion Boyd ’13 Academy of Notre Dame de Namur University of Southern California Communication major from the Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism, and a minor in music industry from the Thornton School of Music

Operations Analyst at Moody’s Analytics

Widener University Delaware Law School

Mary Grace Miller ’15

Andrew Schreder ’13

Danny Taylor ’14

Agnes Irwin School

St. Joseph’s Preparatory School

Malvern Preparatory School

Georgetown University

Economics and psychology majors

University of Notre Dame Finance and Spanish majors with a minor in real estate

“You are going to be really prepared

for high school.”

Science, technology, and international affairs major

Boston College

High School Panelists / September 2021

Max Barton ‘19

Davis Peterson ‘19

Julia Youakim ‘19

Claudia McHugh ‘18

St. Joseph’s Preparatory School

St. Joseph’s Preparatory School

Academy of Notre Dame de Namur

Academy of Notre Dame de Namur

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Alumni

Class Notes 1983

1960 Members of the Class of 1960 Sandra Anderson, Nance DiRocco, Mary Jane DuRoss Bingham, Joanna Hopkinson, and Joan Lowery have been keeping in touch via regular Zoom meetings. All had gone on to attend the Senior School, across the street from Holy Child Junior School, and were members of the Class of 1964. If there are classmates who want to join us, please get in touch by contacting Tina Abate, Director of Alumni and Constituent Relations, at 610-922-1023.

P22 CACHET | Fall 2021

Mary Jane DuRoss Bingham lives in Avon, CT, with her husband, Al. He was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic melanoma in January 2019. After undergoing 23 immunotherapy treatments and two surgeries, Al was pronounced cancer-free in March 2021! Mary Jane and Al are truly grateful for the prayers of friends and family, and feel blessed to have had the incredible medical team supporting him at Hartford Hospital. They enjoyed visiting family over the summer.

Frances Temple-West is an AIA assistant teaching professor at Drexel University in the Department of Architecture, Design, and Urbanism. She teaches studio and seminar courses.

1986 Members of the Class of 1986 and friends gathered together to remember and honor their classmate Chris Joy at a Philadelphia Phillies game in September 2021.

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Alumni

1992

devoted much of her research to studying outcomes in systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (sJIA), a condition that has high morbidity and mortality compared with other subtypes of JIA.

2009

2004

Ian Westerfer and his band, Rod Tuffcurls & the Bench Press, released an album in September 2021 titled “Start Again,” and played their album release show at Chicago’s historic Riviera Theater. The band is very happy to share the songs they wrote throughout the pandemic year, including stories of hope and struggle, and a healthy dose of silliness and humor.

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1993 Lindsey Carson has joined the U.S. Department of Justice as a trial attorney in the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section.

She was previously a senior associate in the White Collar Defense & Investigations group in Arnold & Porter’s Washington, DC office.

Liz Carnall Cupo and her husband Patrick welcomed their son, Patrick Sean Cupo III, on March 19, 2021.

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2008 Members of the Class of 2008, Katherine Clark, Julian O’Neill, Hugh Phelan, Alexandra Sullivan, Stephanie Pino, and Robert Roulston got together for a Philadelphia Eagles home game in September 2021.

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Aaryn Turner recently moved back to Philadelphia after spending four years in Maryland working in educational sales.

Aaryn is happy to be back in her hometown, where she is an entrepreneur running two businesses. She is a stylist for her boutique, The Pretty Shop, and is an interior designer for her design firm, Studio Moxie by Aaryn.

Creativity has been Aaryn’s passion ever since Mrs. Ellen Monahan’s art classes at Holy Child. Aaryn is thankful for the exposure and experience, which shaped her creative businesses today!

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1999 Patrick Temple-West is a journalist with The Financial Times in New York City. He and his wife Lindsay have a one-year-old son named George.

2002 Rosemary Peterson, MD, MSCE, is a pediatric rheumatologist at Dell Children’s Medical Center of Central Texas, Austin.

She was featured in the December 2020 issue of The Rheumatologist as an ACR Distinguished Fellow in 2020. Rosemary has

P23 | Holy Child School at Rosemont

Alumni

Class Notes Andrew Wiener is currently a first-year medical student at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM). He recently graduated with his master’s degree in biomedical sciences from PCOM in the neurobehavioral science concentration.

2010 Jimmy Larkin graduated from The George Washington University (GW) in 2018 with a degree in finance and statistics. While at GW, he was also on the varsity sailing team.

After college, Jimmy moved to Manhattan and started working at Macy’s as a financial planning and analytics analyst. In the past year, he accepted a job at Cantor Fitzgerald as a treasury analyst. Outside work, Jimmy has been studying for the Chartered Financial Analyst exam. He has been sailing at various regattas, golfing, and running.

Last year, Jimmy completed his second half marathon, and he hopes to start training for another soon.

participated in the Holy Child Alumni Panel for our Grade 8 students and spoke about his high school and college experiences.

Julianna Tornetta has been named to the U.S. Women’s National Field Hockey Team. Julianna graduated from Princeton University last spring and is currently pursuing her graduate degree in business at the University of Maryland. She’ll play her fourth year of NCAA eligibility at Maryland.

2014

2012 Barbara Boylan is working for The Art League located in The Torpedo Factory in Old Town Alexandria, VA, as their gallery associate and membership coordinator.

Barbara installed her first monthly and soloartist exhibits for The Art League, and looks forward to future shows and exhibitions.

2013 Michael Larkin graduated from Boston College’s Carroll School of Management in May 2021. He is currently living in Manhattan and working for an insurtech startup company, Buckle Rideshare Insurance (Buckleup.com).

Andrew Schreder graduated last spring from Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service, where he majored in science, technology, and international affairs. Andrew lives in New York and works at Credit Suisse, where he is an investment banking analyst within the Financial Institutions Group. In May of 2021, Andrew

P24 CACHET | Fall 2021

Sarah Jane Quigley, a senior field hockey midfielder at Syracuse University, was named Atlantic Coast Conference Defensive Player of the Week in September 2021.

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Grace Weise was named National Offensive Player of the Week last April by the National Field Hockey Coaches Association. She was also named Field Hockey Player of the Week by the Old Dominion Athletic Conference last spring. Grace is currently a senior at Washington & Lee University.

Support and Outreach Committee (ICSO), which is part of the Black Action Society (BAS). ICSO is responsible for facilitating communication between BAS and other Pittsburgh schools’ Black Student Unions, as well as the Black Student Unions at other Pitt campuses. They also conduct outreach in the greater Pittsburgh community.

2016 Kyla Edmonds was featured in the June 2021 issue of Philadelphia Magazine. The article highlighted stories about people who dealt with adversity throughout the pandemic by means of music. Her resilience is underscored by her achievement of a 3.2 GPA through a year when her mom was hospitalized with COVID-19 during her first semester at Temple University and when she lost her paternal grandmother in the spring during finals. Kyla is currently a sophomore at Temple University, where she is majoring in music.

Meghan Mitchell was named Play Safe Turf & Track Division I Offensive Player of the Week last March during her freshman year at Villanova University as a member of the field hockey team. Last year, she was also named Big East Offensive Player of the Week.

Meghan was one of 50 Villanova studentathletes who earned a 4.0 GPA for the spring semester.

Joseph Wilbur has been selected by the Intercollegiate Rowing Coaches Association to be a member of its First Team All-Americans for lightweight rowing.

Joseph is a sophomore at the University of Pennsylvania.

2015 Tommy McHugh is a junior at Fordham University majoring in economics. He is captain of Fordham’s Club Lacrosse Team and a starting goaltender.

Kayla Pierre is a junior at the University of Pittsburgh, where she is majoring in political science and economics. She is an intern with the Pittsburgh City Council. Kayla is also the co-chair of the Intercollegiate Community

continued on page 26

Alumni

Bill Woody 2003

1. Bill Woody ’03 during his Ordination Liturgy on June 12, 2021, at Fordham University Church.

2. Patrick Woody ’06; Mary Ann Woody ’04; Bishop James Massa, Auxiliary Bishop of the Diocese of Brooklyn; Bill Woody ’03; Mary Lourdes Woody P’01’03’04’06; and Dan Woody ’01.

3. Bill’s first, second, and third grade Holy Child teachers were present as he celebrated his First Mass of Thanksgiving at his home parish, St. John Vianney in Gladwyne.

Judy Wankmiller Cassidy ’59 P’85’86’90’93, Bill Woody ’03, Lynn Gosnell P’00’02’05’06, and Helen Gambescia P’94’98.

1.

Fr. William C. Woody, S.J., a Jesuit in the USA East Province of the Society of Jesus was ordained to the priesthood on Saturday, June 12, 2021, at the Fordham University Church in the Bronx, NY. Fr. Woody was born and raised in Bryn Mawr, PA, to a loving and devout family.

Along with his siblings, he attended Rosemont School of the Holy Child (now Holy Child School at Rosemont) and was an altar server at St. John Vianney Parish. After attending St. Joseph’s Preparatory School in Philadelphia, Fr. Woody graduated summa cum laude from the University of Scranton. It was at St. Joe’s and at Scranton where Fr. Woody came to know the Jesuits well and was inspired by their ministries and vocations.

As a novice, Fr. Woody ministered as a hospice orderly, a teacher, and a chaplain, and later, he studied at Fordham University. He went on to teach philosophy at Saint Peter’s University, and at the College of the Holy Cross. One of the highlights of Fr. Woody’s scholastic ministry was teaching in the Montserrat Program at Holy Cross and directing adaptations of the Spiritual Exercises. Fr. Woody has presented and published on contemporary philosophy of religion and serves as an editor for the International Network of Philosophy of Religion. Following his regency, Fr. Woody moved to Boston College, where he completed a Master of Divinity degree and a Licentiate in Sacred Theology. He is grateful to the many students, friends, and Jesuits along the way — and especially to the parishioners and staff at St. Ignatius, Chestnut Hill, where he served as a deacon. He is most grateful to his family for nurturing his vocation — and to God, through whom this blessed life is possible. Fr. Woody will serve for a year at Holy Trinity Parish in Washington, D.C.

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2.

3.

Courtesy of Mike Gabriele, The USA East Province of the Society of Jesus

P25 | Holy Child School at Rosemont

Alumni

Class Notes

2017

Tristan D’Elia is pursuing his goal to play NCAA Ice Hockey. He is currently playing junior hockey for the Rockets Hockey Club in Bridgewater., NJ. Tristan finished his high school career playing for his district team, West Chester East, where they won the Ches-Mont league, the Flyers Cup title, and the State Championship in a first-ever undefeated season during his senior year.

Tristan was named the All-Area Player of the Year for his senior year performance. He was also named MVP and Best Offensive Player for the second year in a row.

this fall, and then in Costa Rica for the spring, before starting at the University of Miami in August 2022.

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Emma Woodcock graduated from Villa Maria Academy High School last spring and is currently a freshman at Elon University.

Emma is majoring in sports management and is throwing for the women’s track and field team.

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Brendan McGinn graduated from LaSalle College High School in June 2021. He was one of nine students from LaSalle recognized at the 41st Academic Honors Convocation of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. Brendan is currently a freshman at the University of Notre Dame.

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Jasmine Vega graduated from Archbishop Carroll High School last June, and is now a freshman at Ithaca College, where she is pursuing a degree in clinical health studies/ physical therapy, BS/DPT in a five-year program. She received a four-year partial academic scholarship from Ithaca and was recently awarded another scholarship from the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Pennsylvania Chapter.

Grace Wolter graduated from the Academy of Notre Dame de Namur last spring. Grace was a speaker at the Holy Child Grade 8 retreat last June. She is currently a freshman at Georgetown University majoring in human science and is a member of the women’s rowing team.

Garett Kelly and Jack Cooney graduated from The Shipley School last June. Garett is currently a freshman at the University of Rhode Island. Jack is taking a very exciting gap year that will put him in the South Pacific

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P26 CACHET | Fall 2021

Former Holy Child classmates from the Class of 2017 pose together at The Agnes Irwin School’s Prom last spring: Ciara Dasher, Rory Donahue, Finn Nolen, and Perry Cosgrave.

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Alumni

2018

Student Ambassadors, Varsity Mathletes, Environment Club, and Spanish Club.

Nicole Gunn completed a fashion merchandising pre-college course at Marist College this past summer. Nicole also started a fashion club at the Academy of Notre Dame de Namur this year, where she is a senior. She continues to be the costumer for the school musical.

Julia Youakim completed her sophomore year at the Academy of Notre Dame de Namur last spring. She earned Distinguished Honor Roll in the spring of 2021, and she won a silver medal in the 2021 National Spanish Exam. Julia has been designated a Notre Dame STEM Scholar of Excellence and an Arts Scholar; she is one of the first students at her school to qualify for and pursue both tracks. Julia’s artwork appears in the 2021 issue of Notre Dame’s literary magazine, Tournesol, and she is proud to be a member of Notre Dame’s crew team, where she is a coxswain. In summer 2021, Julia was also a coxswain and a member of the Fairmount Rowing Association, competing in local and national regattas in the U19 category. In 2020, Julia started her own business selling her hand-crafted jewelry, accessories, and original oil paintings. In September of 2021, Julia participated in the Holy Child Alumni Panel for our current Grade 8 students and spoke about her high school experience.

Bobby Parillo, a senior at The Haverford School, was recently recognized by the National Merit Scholarship Program as a Commended Student and is captain of the robotics and mock trial teams. Bobby is also working on research related to developing treatments for rare diseases through the Castleman Foundation.

Nicholas Schreder was named captain of the men’s varsity cross country team at The Episcopal Academy, where he is currently a senior. Nicholas was also featured in Episcopal Academy’s Scholium publication for his sports photography work. Nicholas runs his own media and photography business, Schreder Photo.

Lucy Shannon was recognized by the National Merit Scholarship Program as a Commended Student. Lucy is a senior at The Agnes Irwin School.

2020

Preparatory School). SEATED: Liv Barton (Academy of Notre Dam de Namur); Isabella Casey (Germantown Academy); and Gabe Ketchum (The Episcopal Academy).

(Academy of Notre Dame); Isabella Casey (Germantown Academy); and Gabe Ketchum (The Episcopal Academy).

Brady Conlon and Tote Wilson faced off in a baseball game between Radnor High School and Conestoga High School last April.

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Jonathan Wilbur is in the competition band at LaSalle College High School, where he is a sophomore. Jonathan earned academic honors and participated in LaSalle’s Honors Convocation ceremony in October 2021.

2021

2019 Maia Salas completed tenth grade by landing in the Distinguished Honor Roll for the fall and spring semesters at the Academy of Notre Dame de Namur. She was recently accepted into the Accelerated Science Program and is currently a STEM Scholar of Excellence. Maia participated in the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science Regional Science Competition and earned First Award as well as the Judges’ Award for her project, “Nitrogen-fixing Bacteria: The Cheaper Way to Grow.” She moved on to participate in the PJAS State Science Competition, where she received Second Award. Maia was also awarded the bronze medal in the 2021 National Spanish exam.

She keeps herself active with indoor track and leads the Diversity Club, serving as the vice president. Maia is also a member of

Nick Gianoukos finished his freshman year at St. Joseph’s Preparatory School last spring where he earned First Honors for the academic year, as well as magna cum laude on the National Latin Exam. He was elected sophomore class student council representative and enjoyed rowing on the Prep’s crew team.

Members of the Class of 2020 represented their high schools at Holy Child’s High School Night in October 2021. STANDING: Grace Klenn (Archbishop John Carroll High School); Avery Hinckle (Academy of Notre Dame); Claire Lingle (The Agnes Irwin School); Jake Manion (The Episcopal Academy); and Greg Phillips (St. Joseph’s

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▲ Brothers and camp counselors, Liam ’21 and Patrick ’19 Shields are pictured here with Maribeth McCallion P’07’09, Holy Child’s Director of Athletics and Summer Camps, on the last day of Holy Child’s Summer Fun Camp 2021.

P27 | Holy Child School at Rosemont

Alumni

Births

Patrick Sean March 19, 2021 Elizabeth Carnall Cupo ’04 and Patrick

Evelyn Bruna September 28, 2020

Chloe Kathryn March 23, 2021

Brian O’Neill ’00 and Jenn

Katie Boova Craven ’02 and Matt

Evan Thomas April 10, 2021 Whitney Deas Bordogna ’96 and Ray

Gregory Lawrence May 5, 2021 Caroline Keating Gilroy ’05 and Greg

Shannon Rylan August 23, 2021 Beth Martin Dempsey ’00 and Kyle

Bodhi Joseph September 23, 2021 Brian Gambescia ’98 and Alicia

P28 CACHET | Fall 2021

Alumni

Classes of 2016 and 2017 College Destinations Boston College (4)

Texas Christian University

Boston University

The George Washington University

Bucknell University (2)

Trinity College

Clemson University

Tufts University

College of the Holy Cross

Tulane University

Elon University (2)

University of Delaware

Fairfield University (3)

University of Limerick

Fordham University

University of Miami

Georgetown University (4)

University of Notre Dame (2)

Ithaca College

University of Pennsylvania (2)

Kutztown University

University of Rhode Island

New York University

University of Texas at Austin

Northwestern University

Villanova University (2)

Pace University

Wake Forest University

Penn State University (2)

West Chester University

Purdue University

Widener University

San Diego State College Scotland Campus Sports Syracuse University (2) Temple University

Congratulations!

P29 | Holy Child School at Rosemont

Condolences

Mary Ann McConnell Knewstub ’64 — September 21, 2021 — sister of John McConnell ’66,

Kate McConnell ’68, and the late Jane McConnell Greenspun ’72 Anne Leahy ’76 — June 10, 2021 — sister of Dan ’64 and Tom ’67 Leahy Timothy Taylor ’68 — October(4) 3, 2021 — brother of Bill Taylor Texas ’67, Marge Taylor Dolan ’70, Boston College Christian University

Ann Marie Taylor McShea ’73, Jeanne Taylor Vinovich ’77, and Matt Taylor ’78, and uncle of

Danny Taylor ’14 and Brendan Taylor ’16 Boston University The George Washington University Judith Amadio — September 13, 2021(2) — mother of Julia Amadio ’70 and Carol Amadio Heller ’73 Bucknell University Trinity College Raymond Breck — September 28, 2021 — grandfather of LaurenTufts ’16 andUniversity Nicole ’18 Gunn Clemson University Edwina Brennan — June 9 , 2020 — mother of Jeff Brennan ’80

College of the Holy Cross

Tulane University

Francis Butler — June 6, 2021 — grandfather of Abby Butler ’16

Elon University (2)

David Comey — August 10, 2021 — father of Bryan Comey ’99

University of Delaware

Fairfield University (3)

University of Limerick

Fordham University

University of Miami

Patricia Cooney — July 4, 2021 — mother of Gordon Cooney ’73 and grandmother of Jack Cooney ’17 Eileen Dagit — May 11, 2021 — mother of Eileen Dagit Loughran ’71, Bob Dagit ’73, Martha Dagit ’76, and

the late Al Dagit ’70, and grandmother Tom ’02 Loughran Georgetown University (4) of Packy ’98 and University of Notre Dame (2) John Doyle — August 19, 2021 — grandfather of Bridget Ayers University DiCristofaro ’99 Jackie Ayers ’02(2) Ithaca College ofand Pennsylvania Jon Dubs — October 10, 2021 — grandfather of Lucas ’18, Brady ’20, Henry ’24, and Tessa ’26 Conlon

Kutztown University

University of Rhode Island

Robert Farley — September 28, 2021 — father of Erin Farley Friday ’81 and Robin Farley ’83, and New York University University of Texas at Austin

grandfather of Nick ’20 and Luke ’22 Gianoukos

Northwestern University University (2) ’02, Rosemary Gosnell — March 29, 2021 — grandmother of LindsayVillanova Gosnell Green ’00, Tory Gosnell

Chris Gosnell ’05, and Erica Gosnell ’06 Pace University

Wake Forest University

Frances Hubicki — July 3, 2021 — grandmother of Denise Fraider Compton ’98 and Penn (2) West Chester University

Danny State Fraider University Furey ’01

University Joseph Purdue Livesey — June 28, 2021 — grandfather of Michael ’05, Widener Sean ’05, andUniversity Caitlin ’11 Livesey John Madsen — July 15,State 2021 —College father of Joe Madsen ’06 San Diego Joseph Scotland McLaughlin —Campus August 19, 2021 — grandfather of Joe ’08, Alex ’10, and Eric ’14 McLaughlin Sports BarbaraSyracuse Milan — August 12, 2021 — grandmother of Marion Boyd ’12 University (2) Joan Quinn - June 3, 2021 — mother of Patricia Quinn Drollinger ’71 and Joanie Quinn Milhous ’83

Temple University

Arnold Schneider, Jr. — August 2, 2021 — grandfather of Katie ’10, Mikayla ’12, and Jessica ’15 Schneider Joseph Seltzer — October 9, 2021 — father of Wendy Seltzer Weller ’87, Joe Seltzer ’88, Greg Seltzer ’89, and Erica Seltzer Gaffney ’93 Augustus Sigismondi — March 22, 2021 — father of John Sigismondi ’70

P30 CACHET | Fall 2021

The Society of the Holy Child Jesus

Celebrating 175 Years 1846-2021 Holy Child School at Rosemont joins the Holy Child Network of Schools in commemorating the 175th anniversary of the Society of Holy Child Jesus. Our founder, Cornelia Connelly, formed the Society in Derby, England, on October 15, 1846. Since that time, the Society has grown to become an international community focused on several ministries, especially education.

A reflection of the Society’s mission, Holy Child School at Rosemont was founded in 1949 in Rosemont, PA, situated across Montgomery Avenue from the Society’s headquarters for the American Province.

Our school is the modern articulation of the timeless teachings of Cornelia Connelly as we continue to “meet the wants of the age” and grow as a community.

We are blessed with the opportunity to bring together our students and the Sisters of the Holy Child Jesus at New Sharon for annual traditions, and we are inspired by their dedication to Love & Serve.

It is a beloved tradition that our students visit the sisters of the Society of the Holy Child at New Sharon for holidays and celebrations.

We look forward to safely resuming this tradition in the future.

P31 | Holy Child School at Rosemont

Cachet

Holy Child School at Rosemont Magazine

Head of School Thomas G. Lengel Associate Head of School, Director of Middle School Diane Hren Director of Admissions and Enrollment Christine Dymek Manager of Communications and Marketing Kelsey Poholsky

All members of our community are asked to participate in our annual fund giving program. The Holy Child Fund supports the school’s operating expenses and is part of our annual budget. Gifts to the Holy Child Fund impact every single student and enable us to offer an exceptional educational experience to each child.

Assistant Manager of Communications and Marketing Jessica Ferrarelli Director of Institutional Advancement Jill Gregori Director of Alumni and Constituent Relations Tina Abate Director of Annual and Leadership Giving Lauren Ainsworth

Financial aid provides access to the best and brightest students from all backgrounds.

Experiential learning opportunities appeal to curious, young learners and promote collaboration among students.

Director of Leadership and Planned Giving Sr. Mary Broderick, SHCJ Parents’ Liaison Katie Storrer Advancement Assistant Mary Rafferty Petroni ’98

Collaborative classrooms and interdisciplinary experiences promote student engagement in the learning process.

Contributors, Tina Abate, Jessica Ferrarelli, Kelsey Poholsky

Faith-filled experiences deepen the connection to our Catholic foundation.

Photographers Jessica Ferrarelli, Jordan Hayman, Kelsey Poholsky, Mark Tassoni Graphic Design Kelsh Wilson Design

For more information about the Holy State-of-the-art facilities are well-maintained to provide a safe learning environment.

Child Fund, contact Lauren Ainsworth, Director of the Holy Child Fund, at 610-922-1030 or visit our website at holychildrosemont.org/support.

P32 CACHET | Fall 2021

Alumni

A capital campaign supports larger expenses usually associated with new buildings or renovations that typically are spread over a number of years. Since 1949, Holy Child School at Rosemont has conducted four capital campaigns. Each campaign provided an opportunity for the school to enhance existing buildings or construct new buildings that have been used for generations of students.

Three years ago, the Board of Trustees embarked on an ambitious plan to identify areas of need for our current campus, which would enhance the experiences of current and future Falcons. We are pleased that the majority of these elements are completed and will be used by our students this year.

The Goal The goal of The Campaign for Holy Child: Inspiring Joyful Excellence is to raise $8 million. Naming opportunities are still available, and pledges may be paid over a period of three to five years. All gifts over $1,000 will be listed on the donor board located inside of the Fitzgerald Arts and Athletic Center. For more

• The Fitzgerald Performing Arts and Athletic Center enables the entire student body to comfortably assemble in one space for celebrations, performances, prayer services, and sports games.

• Falcon Field, our new regulation-size turf field, provides the opportunity for Holy Child sports teams to host games on campus and eliminates the need for off-site rentals.

• The N.E.S.T. (Nature, Exploration, and Science Territory) offers experiential, science-based learning opportunities for young curious minds.

• The Grotto offers a quiet space for prayer and reflection, centered around a statue of the Holy Child Jesus.

• Expanded parking and a new campus entranceway improve the flow of traffic at morning carline.

information, contact Jill Gregori,

Since our founding in 1949, Holy Child School at Rosemont has been supported by a

Director of Institutional Advancement,

faith-filled community that, in the words of our foundress Cornelia Connelly, has been

at 610-922-1021 or visit our website at

“ready, foreseeing and active” in their philanthropy. The students of today at Holy Child

holychildrosemont.org/support.

are benefitting from the generosity of parents and friends of the school who have gone before them. Our school depends on each generation of parents, grandparents, alumni, and friends — not just for support in the present, but to look to the future with generosity.

1344 Montgomery Avenue Rosemont, PA 19010 610-922-1000

HolyChildRosemont.org

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 the new address to: Office of Advancement, Holy Child School at Rosemont 1344 Montgomery Avenue, Rosemont, PA 19010 or send by email to: alumni@HolyChildRosemont.org