FALL 2024 2023-2024 IMPACT REPORT
LACORDAIRE
LACORDAIRE MAGAZINE
FALL 2024 The Lacordaire Academy Magazine is published biannually by the Academy’s Marketing Office.
Head of School Megan Mannato
Associate Head of School Suzanne Bilicska
Board Chair Christine James, OPA ’83, ’87
Editor Kelly Reilly McCarthy ’11 Director of Marketing
Advancement Editor Marissa Klapwald Director of Advancement
Photography Lacordaire Faculty & Staff New Moon Photography NJ Studio B
Mission Empowering students to grow into confident decision makers and responsible leaders in a community of belonging, rooted in the Catholic Dominican tradition
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Lacordaire Academy
Magazine
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“We believe in an education that has at its center integrity, honesty, and grace; an education by teachers who are devoted to social justice and the Dominican mission.” -Mary Anne von Schaumburg Burns ‘79
From Our Board Chair application across all our subject areas. And we continue to look for resources to expand our offerings, so every student finds their unique passion. You will also hear how personalized our approach to high school and college counseling is truly a differentiator for us. The Board has also supported ongoing professional development for our dedicated faculty, ensuring that they have the resources and training to continue offering the rigorous education that Lacordaire is known for. Their tireless work in nurturing our students’ potential is the foundation of everything we do. Teachers leave an indelible mark on our lives, and we all remember the teachers that pushed us the hardest. We may not have liked it at the time, but what a difference it really made for us later in life. Our students today know how much their teachers care about them.
Dear Lacordaire Academy Community, As Chair of the Board of Trustees and an alumna, it fills me with pride to reflect on the many accomplishments and everything we are doing today. So much happens inside and outside our hallowed halls! We are blessed by an incredibly dedicated administration, faculty and staff who have an unwavering commitment to the mission, vision, and values that have made Lacordaire more than just a school for over a century. Strengthening Our Mission and Vision At the core of everything we do is our shared mission to empower students to grow into confident decision makers and responsible leaders in a community of belonging, rooted in the Catholic Dominican tradition. This year, we have continued to enhance our academic offerings and spiritual formation, ensuring that our students are prepared to meet the challenges of the world with confidence, compassion, and integrity. Our commitment to diversity and inclusion remains at the forefront of our efforts, ensuring that Lacordaire Academy is a place where all students feel valued, respected, and empowered. We are building the next generation of leaders. Our vision is that Lacordaire Academy is a place where everyone succeeds, inspired to confidently learn and lead through prayer, study, ministry, and our community of belonging to make the world a better place. In the pages ahead you will see how that vision comes to life every day. Academic Excellence We are particularly proud of the strides made in enhancing our academic programming. This year, we invested in expanding our STEAM initiatives, strengthening our commitment to science, technology, arts, and mathematics. You will hear more about our new Advanced Science Academy, which was developed thanks to the ideas and generosity of our own alumni. So many of our graduates have gone on to major in the sciences and engineering. Our English programs continue to engage and inspire creativity and literary expression, and our arts and theater programs bring those to life. Additionally, our partnership with local organizations has opened doors for students to engage in real-world learning experiences that bridge the gap between classroom theory and practical
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Community Engagement and Support One of the highlights of this year has been the deepened sense of community within Lacordaire Academy. Thanks to the generosity of our donors, alumni, and families, we have been able to invest in Lacordaire for now and future generations. The continued support of our community enables us to offer scholarships, enhance campus facilities, and provide a holistic education that prepares our students for leadership and service. Our alumni network has also proven to be an invaluable resource, offering mentorship and career development opportunities to our students and recent graduates. The connection between Lacordaire’s past and present is stronger than ever, and we look forward to further strengthening these ties in the years ahead. Looking Ahead While we celebrate the many accomplishments of the past year, we remain focused on the future. Our plans for Lacordaire Academy include investing in our faculty and our campus, increasing scholarships, and developing new programs that respond to the evolving needs of our students and the world around us. The Board is committed to ensuring that Lacordaire Academy remains a place where young women and men are equipped not just for high school and college, but for lives of purpose and service. I am energized by the infectious spirit of every student and how engaged they are inside and outside the building. They really look out for each other and share their joy and spirit with everyone that enters. Every year at graduation, I am profoundly moved by the reflections of our students and how much they embody the spirit of Lacordaire. The stories told through these pages help you to see how much goes on daily at Lacordaire, but I really encourage you to come back and see for yourself. In closing, I want to express my deepest gratitude to each member of our community—students, families, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends. Your dedication to Lacordaire Academy’s vision and your continued support are what make all of our achievements possible. I am confident that, together, we will continue to build on this strong foundation and create an even brighter future for the next generation of Lacordaire graduates. Thank you for your continued faith in Lacordaire Academy. We look forward to another year of growth, success, and impact.
Warmly,
Christine James, OPA ’83 ‘87 Chair, Board of Trustees Lacordaire Academy
FALL 2024
Campus Life 08 At Park & Lorraine
32
12 An Interview with
Mary Kate Coleman ’10
17 The Lessons of Lacordaire
Spotlight on Commencement
The Class of 2024 Celebrating Our Upper School, Middle School, and Kindergarten Graduates
18 Art Exhibition 48 Meet Our New P.A.
Program Highlights 22 Advanced Science Academy 26 Upper School Travel
Spotlight on College Counseling 20 The Lacordaire Advantage: Demystifying our Process
Giving 66 Join the Veritas Society
42
Sports Roundup
50
From the Advancement Office
The 2023-2024 Impact Report
28
Learning from Each Other
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Head of School’s Note In September, we warmly welcomed both new and returning students into our halls for another exciting year of growth, learning, friendship, and collaboration. As we celebrate our 104th anniversary, I am confident that, much like the 103 years that preceded it, we will continue to be inspired by the achievements of our students and alumni. At Lacordaire, I firmly believe that the foundation of our success is owed to the authentic vibrancy of our community. This past spring, Lacordaire underwent its accreditation process, which occurs once a decade, through both the New Jersey Association of Independent Schools (NJAIS) and our current accrediting board, Middle States. As part of this process, a distinguished team of educators and leaders from other NJAIS schools spent a week with us, making observations and offering recommendations. “The Visiting Team observed the diversity, warmth, inclusion, and joy that shines through each encounter with students, faculty, staff and parents,” they summarized. “Belonging is felt, seen, and heard within and outside the walls of Lacordaire Academy.” During our 8th-grade graduation ceremony in June, Kate Gallop ’24, ’28, Salutatorian, shared that among her graduating class of seventeen remarkable young men and women, students speak six different languages, participate in ten different sports, and have traveled to nearly forty countries. In her speech, Upper School Salutatorian Milanya Navani ’24 reminisced, “From the moment we all met in freshman year, it was like magic how our individual stories and backgrounds culminated into the beautiful mosaic that is our class.” Ms. Gallop’s and Ms. Navani’s remarks prove that our educational experience becomes significantly richer when we take the time to simply listen to each others’ stories. Belonging means that each student’s voice is heard at the same volume. Sometimes we refer to our school as a "joyful bubble." In this safe space, children are encouraged to explore, experience both successes and failures, and feel supported and heard. While we recognize that the "real world" can be less equitable, a Lacordaire education prepares students to step confidently into that world with strong listening skills and flexible, analytical thinking.
I firmly believe that the foundation of our success is owed to the authentic vibrancy of our community. Our alumni will use their Lacordaire education to become innovative problem solvers and responsible leaders who engage thoughtfully with diverse perspectives. This is made possible by our dedicated teachers and administrators, who practice active listening, as well as the parents and guardians who partner with us to instill fundamental respect in their children. “Students were overwhelmingly friendly and welcoming,” the accreditation team also shared after their visit. “They rushed to wave and greet the Visiting Team and any faculty member that we encountered. Students demonstrated a sense of ownership and security in the buildings and their relationships with their teachers and administrators.” As we advance through our 104th year, I extend my sincere appreciation to everyone for their contributions to the vibrancy of our community. This unique quality is what sets us apart. Very truly yours,
Megan Mannato Head of School
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“The Visiting Team observed the diversity, warmth, inclusion, and joy that shines through each encounter with students, faculty, staff and parents. Belonging is felt, seen, and heard within and outside the walls of Lacordaire Academy.”
At Park & Lorraine
CULTURAL SHARING Spanish teacher Señora Abreu, along with the Upper School Spanish Culture class, hosted this year’s annual Hispanic Heritage celebration. During this programming, students were treated to an array of foods from Spanish-speaking countries, raffles, music, and, of course, dancing. Pictured above: The Feliciano sisters, ’25 and ’27, dance in their traditional costume.
LITTLE READ AT BELLEVUE LIBRARY This fall, Pre-K and Kindergarten students took a quick morning walk to see our neighbors at the Bellevue branch of the Montclair Public Library for a “Little Read” session! Our students especially enjoyed “The Book with No Pictures” by BJ Novak. 08 LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 AT PARK & LORRAINE
BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS In October, we hosted our annual Feast of St. Francis of Assisi Blessing of the Animals prayer service. Students and their families brought their beloved companions (this year we had chickens, birds, snakes, cats, dogs, and even a few stuffed animals). We prayed for God to protect all of the earth’s innocent creatures for another year.
INVESTIGATING THE PROPERTIES OF METALS Students in Mr. Chester’s 8th grade science class investigate the properties of metals and nonmetals based on the way they are used in everyday situations, analyze their data and form conclusions.
#1 ALL GIRLS HIGH SCHOOL IN ESSEX COUNTY & #6 ALL GIRLS HIGH SCHOOL IN THE STATE Lacordaire's Upper School has recently been ranked #1 in private all girls schools in Essex County and #6 in the whole state on Niche: the country’s leading college and school search platform. This prestigious recognition is a testament to the hard work, dedication and positive student outcomes that define our school community. Our ranking reflects our outstanding performance in academic achievements, student support, and college placement. We are incredibly proud of this achievement and grateful for the continued support from our students, parents, faculty, and alumni. This ranking not only honors our past successes, but also motivates us to continue striving for excellence in everything we do.
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From the Editor
In a recent meeting with my colleagues on the leadership team,
I have had the privilege of wearing the same class ring as the many
we spoke about Lacordaire’s vision and shared some of the school traditions that are important to us. White gowns at graduation, our French history, the Dominican sisters,
remarkable women who came before me. It is the enduring school traditions that make me feel the most proud of my Lacordaire education.
commitment to service, and prayers before mealtime were named. These may seem like small details, but they are meaningful pieces of the stories we tell; an integral part of the
As administrators and educators—many of whom are alumni ourselves—our responsibility is to ensure the continuity of
heritage we share as members of the Lacordaire community.
cherished traditions while also guiding the school as we progress forward. While it is true that times change, our heritage unifies us
From my current vantage point, and as an alumna, I am hit with a wave of nostalgia at the beginning of the school year when I see the students arrive in their plaid and red ties and penny loafers. Le temps passe si vite. There are things that I never anticipated I would miss: playing tennis with my doubles partner amidst the fallen leaves at Brookdale Park, the excitement surrounding prom, graduation, and college, field trips into Manhattan, and the quiet, peaceful atmosphere here on campus. When I browse our school’s archives, I come across photographs from the 1920s and 1930s of students with their tennis racquets, taking a field trip into the city, and celebrating at the ring ceremony, a school dance, or big and little sister events, and they evoke such a sense of familiarity.
across more than a century of graduates. Next year, Lacordaire will celebrate its 105th anniversary. Today’s students will soon transition from their plaid skirts and ties into the next stages of their lives. What stories will they share? What values will they carry forward from their Lacordaire experience? What elements of this brief yet formative time will they hold dear? This season has a distinctly collegiate feel, reminiscent of beloved literature and films set against the backdrop of old campuses with bright autumn foliage and ivy. For our alumni, it is a wonderful time to return for a visit. There is so much to see and experience, and plenty to remind you of home. All good wishes,
Kelly Reilly McCarthy ’11 Director of Marketing
FROM THE EDITOR LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 11
Mary Kate Coleman’10, English Teacher and Theatre Director, Takes Home 2024 Key Award The recipient of this year's Key Award is Ms. Mary Kate Coleman ’10. Ms. Coleman is a Middle School English teacher, our Mainstage Theatre Director, and our very own Gryffin-puff (part Gryffindor, part Hufflepuff).Whether Ms. Coleman is directing a stage production, submitting her students’ writing to be published, taking students to Woodloch Resort for some friendly competition, or chaperoning a trip through Lacordaire’s International Travel Program, Ms. Coleman gives everything her all. She is an excellent teacher whose dedication to providing a stellar, well-rounded education shines in everything she does.
What is something that defines your teaching style?
The Key Award is an annual, peer-voted award given to one faculty member who goes above and beyond in his or her position here at the Academy. Because we want you to get to know her, too, we sat down to ask Ms. Coleman for a Q&A.
If I could live inside of a piece of literature for a day, it would be the Lord of the Rings Universe. I feel like being a Hobbit in Hobbiton would be a lovely vacation: stay in a cozy little hobbit hole, eat 7 meals a day, enjoy the beautiful scenery, maybe get lucky enough to see some of Gandalf's fireworks!
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My teaching style revolves around a few things but I aim for creativity and fun. Yes, we are going to take notes and we are going to have tests, and quizzes, and days where we have to be serious, BUT we can practice in a way that is fun: escape rooms, "trips" to far off countries, games, prizes, competition, etc.! If you are having fun while you learn, it's much more likely that you will remember it.
If you could live inside of a piece of literature for a day, which one would you choose and why?
What are you reading right now? I am always reading whatever my classes are reading, but personally I am finishing up If We Were Villains by M.L. Rio.
Was there a teacher who had a profound impact on your life? If so, describe. I always think about an English teacher I had during my freshman year of high school, before I came to Lacordaire. Her name was Mrs. Geraghty. She instilled a lot of lessons in me, and I find myself sounding like her a lot in the classroom. She LOVED Shakespeare (and started my love too) and would always throw a birthday party for him in April. She also took the time to connect the literature to our lives as best she could. It felt so comfortable to be in her room and I really learned a lot from her!
If you could teach a different subject for a day, what would it be and why? English is truly the only thing I want to teach, BUT, if I had to choose one, I would probably pick history. It's the story of all humanity. Who tells it? Why do we keep repeating the same patterns? What can we do to leave our mark and change future stories? I know it is much more complicated than that, but it could be a good time just for the day!
Theatre question: why are there "no people like show people"? Oh, theatre people... theatre people are some of the nicest, most creative, entertaining, and smartest people in the world, no matter if they are in tech or on stage. As an actor, you can live a thousand lives that connect you to humanity and to your audience in ways that nothing else can. It makes you a very empathetic human. As a tech or a creative, you see words and turn it into reality like a full-blown, real life magician! How do I create a whole new world on stage and then how do I actually make it so it works? It's amazing the amount of teamwork and problem solving involved and what kind of connections and community is built from that. We love a theatre nerd!
You're known to be a fearless eater when you travel. What's the most adventurous thing you've tried so far, and why should people be less afraid to try new foods? By far, the most adventurous thing I have eaten was fermented shark in Iceland with Ms. Bilicska. She tried it, too! I ate it fast, so I didn't taste it too much, but it was potent, to say the least...Anyway, the reason I think people should be less afraid to try new cuisine is because you never know what you are going to fall in love with! You might think you won't like it or that it will be gross or a disappointment, but will you really ever know if you don't try? Taste is one of our strongest memory triggers. If it was delicious, you will never forget it (pineapple in Nicaragua, cullen skink in Scotland, and rye bread in Iceland) or you will have a fantastic story about some less tasty but more intriguing treats (haggis and the shark!). Either way, you have made some memories!
I'm on a trip and you're my tour guide! You choose the destination and plan one day for me! Welcome to Ms. Coleman's tour of Edinburgh! We start the morning with a delicious, full Scottish breakfast. You are going to want to fuel up as we are going to make our way to Edinburgh Castle and do some shopping on the Royal Mile. Then, we are going to go to the Mussel Inn for some delicious seafood (Ms. Bilicska and I HIGHLY recommend). But don't fill up just yet! We will spend the day tasting our way through Edinburgh as we find some bakery fresh shortbread and tablet, some of the most delicious ice cream ever, a little bit of Scottish pie with a flaky, buttery crust, and some Iron Bru (one of the most popular soda drinks)! Finally, as twilight approaches, we will do our little Harry Potter tour stopping at Greyfriars Kirkyard to see where many of the names of the characters come from, Victoria Street (aka the real life Diagon Alley), and the National Museum of Scotland for the inspiration behind the Wizard's Chess pieces!
THANK YOU, MS. COLEMAN! INTERVIEW WITH MARY KATE COLEMAN LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 13
Campus Life
ALUMNI ON CAMPUS
PHOTO STUDENTS EXPLORE THE HISTORY OF PHOTOGRAPHY THROUGH HANDS-ON ALTERNATIVE PROCESSES
COFFEE BAR This year, we partnered with our friends and neighbors at Java Love in Upper Montclair to bring visitors a fall coffee cart to enjoy during our annual Open House.
Mrs. Birnbaum's photography students in the Middle and Upper divisions took advantage of the distinct sunshine in September and created their own cyanotypes! Cyanotypes are one of the earliest forms of photographic image-making. Paper is sensitized using a combination of potassium ferracyanide and ferric ammonium citrate. Then, students created compositions over the sensitized paper. Finally, the photograms were exposed to sunlight and developed first in a bath of water and then in a bath of hydrogen peroxide, which helps emphasize the blue tones.
MIXING AND MINGLING AT THE NEW PARENT RECEPTION Beginning your family's next chapter at a new school shouldn't be daunting. That's why the faculty and administration at Lacordaire invite all new parents and guardians to a reception right before the first day of school. At this reception, they get to chat with all of their child's future teachers and administrators, meet the Parent Association, and socialize with other incoming parents and guardians. As we congratulated our new families one last time on their children's acceptances to Lacordaire, we enjoyed the kind of late summer weather that foreshadowed the golden, crisp fall days to come.
STUDENT CLUBS AT THE ANNUAL OUTDOOR CLUB CARNIVAL This year’s Club Carnival was so much fun! Lower & Middle School students participated in carnival games and purchased food, face painting, and more, to support the Upper School’s 24-25 student clubs and organizations. Students represented the Environmental Club, Black Student Union, Fashion Club, Culture Club, Cooking Club, Mu Alpha Theta Math Honor Society, and more! CAMPUS LIFE LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 15
ALUMNI ON CAMPUS
STUDENT AMBASSADORS PROGRAM
In Ms. Ballantyne's 5th grade theatre class, students were given just 30 seconds to create a costume of their choice. This exercise not only allows students to dabble in costume design and props, but also encourages teamwork and collaboration.
Mr. De Toustain's 6th and 8th grade French classes got a special guest visit all the way from France this month! Mademoiselle Kyllia is an au pair with a Lacordaire family, and she agreed to come in and speak about her hometown of Lyon. The class discussed cultural differences and similarities, and even got to try some homemade crêpes. Merci beaucoup, Kyllia!
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Saydi Callahan Keefe, Director of Admissions, leads one of Lacordaire’s most popular student clubs: the Student Ambassadors program. In this program, students volunteer their time to serve as tour guides and shadow day hosts for prospective Lacordaire students. Ambassadors must be in good academic standing and their participation must be approved by their teachers. Currently, we have over 50 students who actively participate in the Student Ambassadors program. This program helps students exercise their public speaking and confidence skills.
“Are you ready to feast on the food of your friends’ recent reads?” asks Ms. Coleman. “Join us for the grand opening of Chez Lacordaire as the 5th grade hosts the 2nd annual book buffet!” Students recently created food displays that doubled as book reports and traveled around the room “tasting” their classmates’ recent independent reads.
The Lessons of Lacordaire As told by Joshua Chiaravalotti ‘24
Josh was Lacordaire’s 2024 Middle School Valedictorian. He is currently attending St. Peter’s Preparatory School and is a recipient of the prestigious Sheehan Award: A full, meritbased, four year academic scholarship. During Josh’s time at Lacordaire, he was a member of the Forensics team for four years and made captain in 8th grade. He won many awards during his time on the team and was an excellent captain always encouraging the younger students and offering good feedback. As a Big Brother in the Bigs and Littles program, Josh was a standout, handling his mentorship with maturity and demonstrating tremendous nurturing skills for his young age. “The children thought he was the coolest Big Brother and looked forward to seeing him and spending time together,” says Mrs. Thornton, who oversees the program. Outside of school, Josh took violin lessons at Lacordaire and was involved with a traveling baseball program, but always managed the demands of his busy schedule effortlessly. He remained committed to the Forensics team and other extracurricular activities while maintaining an impressive academic record. Mrs. Thornton also notes that Josh did everything with a smile and without a complaint. While Josh was the last of three Chiaravallotti brothers to matriculate through Lacordaire’s PK-8 program, we know that his legacy will live on through his peers and in the younger students that he mentored.
applause after a performance or speech. And as a result, we cheer for others and want all the younger students to feel that rush as well. “
1. Present Yourself Properly and Well
5. Take Responsibility for Yourself
“Having attended Laco since PreK, I feel like I have worn that uniform forever! I am pretty sure that everyone here can agree that the uniforms and dress-down [tag] day dress code are annoying. But, it was not clear to me until recently - that it was not about the specific pants, tie and sweater. The uniform has been a way to teach us the importance of presenting ourselves properly. I think we all eventually realized that the uniform and dress-code (even on tag days) teach us that how you carry yourself impacts your ability to learn and how people perceive you.”
“Taking responsibility for yourself and everything you do is an essential lesson taught to us by so many of our teachers. As we all know, teachers assigned a lot of work and we had to learn to submit high quality work on time. This was an important lesson to learn and we all learned the hard way - many times. We all had grades lowered due to lateness and points deducted for misspellings or sloppy work.”
3. Offer a Helping Hand “After special events, the Middle and Upper school are expected to put away the chairs. While such a task may seem monotonous or annoying, we learned through these experiences. We not only learned the importance of contributing to your community, but we also learned that we could have fun while doing anything together.”
6. Live by the Golden Rule 4. Unapologetically Be Yourself 2. Always Support One Another “Lacordaire holds many schoolwide events–we present and perform for the school all the time. The students genuinely support all of the other students and we love cheering each other on. We have all felt the rush of
“So many teachers have encouraged us to be ourselves over the years, but it was Sister Pat that really drove this lesson home for me. She allowed us to laugh and make jokes as long as we were learning what we needed to. Her ability to teach that 7th-grade honors math class without quitting halfway through the year is a miracle.”
“Whether you started in pre-K or 8th grade, Lacordaire has tried to instill in all of us the golden rule – treat others as you want to be treated. It sounds so simple, but we all know it is not.
Lacordaire has enabled all of us to learn these lessons while simultaneously forming enough memories to last a lifetime. We should carry these lessons and memories into the future.”
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In this series, Elin Smith-Freitag ’25 imagines a world where extraterrestrial life exists in our familiar spaces and landscapes.
LACORDAIRE ART EXHIBITION SELECTED WORKS
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Felicity Esguerra ’25 created paintings from the perspective of a car passenger.
Ava Balian ’24, now a freshman and Northeastern University majoring in Business Administration and Law, experimented with painting portraits in greyscale.
ART EXHIBITION LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 19
Seniors and their families celebrate the completion of their college applications at Ms. Tashjian’s annual Day of the Deadline celebration on November 1st.
THE LACORDAIRE ADVANTAGE
How We Help Our Students Land at Their Dream Schools
It sounds like a crazy statistic, we know: 100% of Lacordaire’s graduates are accepted into at least one of their top 3 college choices. As admission to colleges and universities becomes increasingly competitive, many wonder what the key is to securing a spot. What makes the ideal applicant to a student’s top choice school? How can parents support their children in achieving their dreams? The truth is, there is no single "perfect" applicant. The American college application process is, undoubtedly, shrouded in mystery. Colleges may be looking for a particular type of candidate one year and not the next, or a student who will participate in a sport or activity or even a major with seats to fill at that particular time. However, attending a smaller school like Lacordaire offers an advantage. Graduates from smaller classes have a better chance of moving forward in the application process because they aren't competing with as many peers for the same spot. Yet, even with this advantage, students must ensure that their applications stand out. The process of helping our students enhance their college applications begins in their freshman year. To shed some light on our tried-and-true process, we spoke with Ms. Kaitlyn Tashjian, the Dean of Student Affairs.
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When does the college counseling process officially begin for a student at Lacordaire? The college counseling process begins as soon as students begin their freshman year of high school. Because of the small class sizes, I, in conjunction with the staff and faculty, am able to work individually with each student to curate a transcript and high school experience that will prepare them for a successful college admissions process. Conversations are held individually and through Guidance classes where students are made aware of the importance of not only strong grades, but also showing that they continually challenge themselves academically, that they take on responsibilities and leadership roles, and that they are involved in a wide variety of extracurricular activities inside and outside of school.
How is the application process different at Lacordaire than it is at other schools? In a student’s junior year of high school, the application processes officially start. I reach out to roughly 50 college and university admission representatives, based on the schools that our students have expressed interest in applying to, and I set up a bunch of appointments for representatives from those schools to visit Lacordaire.
During these visits, our students get the opportunity to learn more about many different college options. Unlike the experience at larger schools or college fairs, the admissions representatives that visit Lacordaire are able to meet and interact with a small group–no more than 20 students–and have personal conversations with the girls. That ability to interact with college admissions representatives in an intimate setting is so important.
How do you prepare students’ families for the college application process? In the winter of students’ junior year, the Academy hosts a Junior Family College Information Night in which families of 11th-graders are provided with general information about the college admission process and the timeline ahead of them, and we speak about the services offered through the Lacordaire Guidance Office. There is also a guest speaker at each event, usually a Director of Admissions from a college or university, to represent the college and university’s perspective of the admissions process. These group meetings are followed up by individual family meetings in the spring of the students’ 11th grade year, where we are able to put together an individualized college plan for the girls, which includes input from their parents. In this meeting, the following are discussed: Current transcript and projected senior year courses Extracurriculars and potential leadership opportunities Areas where the student can challenge themselves going into senior year Potential college list and potential college profile (location, size, major, etc.). From this point, Juniors and their families have full access to the Dean of Student Affairs as they explore high school and college options.
Once these meetings happen, what is next for the students? Throughout the remainder of the year, the juniors participate in writing workshops with local college writing professors who start to prepare the students for writing their college essays and supplements. In August, prior to Senior year, the Academy holds a Common Application Camp where the senior class works together to complete the majority of their Common Application before they start senior year classes. Each day of the camp is focused on a different part of the application. The last day of the camp is dedicated to writing their personal statement and supplemental essays. A guest speaker is brought in to run a writing workshop to help the seniors start to develop their personal statements.
Can you talk about our test prep programs? Test preparation is worked into the Lacordaire curriculum and is cotaught by members of the Math and English departments. Test prep in math and language arts are offered once every six-day cycle. Students work on test-taking strategies such as whether to eliminate and guess or predict and match as well as common math and English questions. This practice helps students develop strategies to tackle the SAT, practice concepts they may have forgotten, and practice time management for the test. A recent adjustment to the test prep program was discussing how the online testing will be different from the traditional paper-and-pencil testing and what electronic tools they can take advantage of while testing. Test prep classes are part of both the Middle and Upper school curriculums.
What happens, in the process, as students enter their senior year? Between September and December of senior year, students are provided a timeline to send out as many early applications as possible, specifically early application. The goal is for the seniors to be finished applying to colleges by the time they go on Thanksgiving Break. Again, because of the small size of the classes, our team is able to individually check up on and meet with students weekly, if not more, as they go through their application season. I write in-depth and personalized letters of recommendation to accompany each student’s application, I review each application before submission, and I make personal phone calls to the admissions representatives at the top three schools to which each senior applied after they submit their application.
How do you guide students when it comes to choosing a major? A central part of the college application process is discussing possible major and career choices with each student, which I start focusing seriously on in a student’s junior year. Based on the student’s hobbies, passions, academic strengths and interests, the Academy helps students explore areas they may want to major in and helps them create a well-rounded transcript based on those areas. Furthermore, part of the college and career exploration process is the Junior Internship Program. In the winter of junior year, the students take off a week from school to intern in fields that interest them. This opportunity has led our students to networking in professional fields in the local community as well as across the US and abroad, and has even resulted in summer internship and paid job opportunities for our students. Additionally, throughout their four years in the Upper School, students regularly hear from alumni, guest speakers, and professionals in a wide variety of areas to learn about career options and trajectories, and hear stories from women in all types of fields to expand their knowledge of, and exposure to, a world of possibilities. THE LACORDAIRE ADVANTAGE LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 21
Advanced Science Academy A Partnership Between Alumna Kaitlin Noyes ’02 and Dr. Jennifer Zinman
T
he bell rings at 3:15 pm on Wednesdays, and the 11 students who were selected to study in this year’s inaugural Advanced Science Academy (ASA) program head down to Dr. Zinman’s laboratory on the lower floor of Lacordaire Hall. In the lab, students are gaining hands-on experience in the study of marine and ocean sciences: the focus of this year’s ASA program, which is the brainchild of Kaitlin Noyes, an alumna from the Upper School class of 2002, and Dr. Jennifer Zinman, our Science and Math Department Chair. This year-long, after school course will provide opportunities for Upper School students to explore a variety of STEM subject areas in-depth and gain early exposure to STEM careers. Over the course of the ASA program, students will apply their learning, meet with professionals, and complete a capstone project. The students’ 2025 capstone project will conclude with a 6-day program at the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences (BIOS), led by Ms. Noyes, who is the BIOS Education Director. Dr. Zinman is teaching the full, year-long academic program on Lacordaire’s campus.
22 LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 ADVANCED SCIENCE ACADEMY
One of the hallmarks of marine systems is their salinity. ASA students explored the relationship between temperature and the amount of Instant Ocean salt solution that could be dissolved.
rogram Leaders
Dr. Jennifer Zinman received a BA in Biochemistry from Columbia University, a Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences from Mt. Sinai School of Medicine, and an MAT in Biology from Montclair State University. Prior to joining Lacordaire, where she is the Science and Math Department Chair and Director of inclusion, Dr. Zinman served as a postdoctoral fellow with Dr. Emanuel Goldman at the University of Medicine and Dentistry, an adjunct lecturer in Cell Biology at Columbia University, and as the lead stem educator for Extended Workshops at the Liberty Science Center.
Kaitlin Noyes '02 received her Master’s in Conservation Biology from Columbia University. Kaitlin holds a BSc. (Hons) in Marine Biology from Roger Williams University and is a graduate of the Duke Environmental Leadership Program. She is currently enrolled in the Nonprofit Management certificate at Oregon State University College of Business. Before joining the BIOS team in 2010, where she currently serves as Director Of Education and Community Engagement, Kaitlin was a coordinator and instructor for the Earth Institute Center for Environmental Sustainability at Columbia University.
ADVANCED SCIENCE ACADEMY LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 23
Spotlight on Math & Science
ALUMNI ON CAMPUS
BIOLOGIST SAMARA ZINMAN VISITS TO DISCUSS BEING A WOMAN IN SCIENCE Dr. Zinman's daughter, biologist Samara Zinman, visited the Upper School biology classes and the Advanced Science Academy this fall. Samara spoke to the students about being a woman in science and shared information about her research & extensive field work with coral reefs.
Mr. Chester’s 12th grade physics honors students observed objects moving at a constant speed and objects moving with changing speed. The students recorded their data and then created (and interpreted) graphs relating distance and time for the moving objects in order to form their conclusions.
Samara became fascinated with aquatic and marine systems at the age of 5 when learning about invasive zebra mussels in Lake George, NY. After receiving a Bachelors of Science degree in Marine Biology and a Bachelors of Science degree in Marine Conservation from the Florida Institute of Technology, she worked in the Mote Marine Laboratory Coral Health and Disease program studying coral ecology for a year before starting her Masters. She is now a Master of Marine Science Student at Nova Southeastern University studying coral species traits in Florida and the Persian Gulf under the supervision of Dr. Andrew Bauman.
STUDENTS SKETCH REAL-LIFE GEOMETRIC CONSTRUCTS Mr. Orso’s 5th grade Math students went outside to create sketches and explanations about real-life geometric constructs! Students found examples of parallel and perpendicular lines, as well as learning about the radius of a circle! Mr. Orso's chickens also made a guest appearance while they prepared for their club carnival showing! 24
LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 SPOTLIGHT ON MATH & SCIENCE
STUDENTS IN MRS. GOLDSTEIN’S UPPER SCHOOL BIOLOGY CLASS CREATED ECO COLUMNS: SELFSUSTAINING, SMALL-SCALE MODELS OF ECOSYSTEMS THAT INCLUDE A TERRESTRIAL HABITAT, A COMPOST UNIT, AND AN AQUATIC HABITAT. A CRICKET EVEN MADE ITS HOME IN ONE OF THE COLUMNS!
ALUMNI ON CAMPUS
DR. ZINMAN'S SENIOR AP BIOLOGY STUDENTS, AS PART OF THEIR GREATER STUDY ON CELL STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION, DESIGNED A LAB TO TEST THE LIMITS OF CELL SIZE AND VOLUME BY USING GELATIN WITH AN INDICATOR DYE. PICTURED HERE IS THE AFTERMATH OF TESTING THE GELATIN.
Mr. Wight’s 9th grade biology students explored the 7 properties of water that make it an essential component of life on Earth; Cohesion, Adhesion, Surface Tension, Heat Capacity, Relative Density, Capillary Action, and the reasons why we call water the "Universal Solvent". This was an inquiry-driven lab, with students making observations and describing these properties in their own words. Students discussed their observations and the underlying molecular interactions in class.
Pictured right: 6th-graders in Mr. Chester's earth & space science class used data in a table to convert astronomical units into centimeters. Then, they needed to figure out a scale that allowed them to draw a model of the solar system, which needed to fit in the space available on a sheet of paper. Finally, they analyzed their models and formed conclusions.
SPOTLIGHT ON MATH & SCIENCE LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 25
Onward to See the World
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International + Domestic Travel are Staples in Lacordaire’s Historic Upper School acordaire ensures a highly personalized and enriching liberal arts education including ample opportunity to see the world. Through the Academy's International Travel Program, students have visited destinations such as New Zealand, Iceland, and Scotland. This summer, students will travel to the Mediterranean, spending time in countries such as Switzerland, Italy, France, and Spain. In 2026, the Upper School students will journey together to Japan. Through the Campus Ministry program, students recently traveled to the Texas-Mexico border, the Blackfeet Reservation in Browning, Montana, and a camp for the children of migrant workers in Florida, providing compassionate assistance wherever it is needed most.
Traveling broadens perspectives and ignites curiosity, imagination, and a sense of adventure in teenagers. Every student in Lacordaire’s Upper School can travel internationally and throughout the United States during her time at the Academy, whether through the International Travel Program or on mission trips with the Campus Ministry program.
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LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 ONWARD TO SEE THE WORLD
THIS SUMMER, A GROUP OF UPPER SCHOOL STUDENTS, THROUGH THE CAMPUS MINISTRY PROGRAM, TRAVELED TO FLORIDA AND ASSISTED IN THE WORK OF THE LA SALLE EDUCATIONAL CENTER IN HOMESTEAD, WHICH SERVES THE FAMILIES OF MIGRANT WORKERS.
Aside from getting to work with the children, highlights of our students' trip were trying fresh coconut water and exploring the Florida Everglades.
OUR UPPER SCHOOL STUDENTS ASSISTED WITH A SUMMER DAY CAMP PROGRAM FOR AGES K-4, TEACHING THE CHILDREN OF MIGRANT WORKERS LESSONS ABOUT SEA LIFE, PLAYING GAMES LIKE CHESS, AND RUNNING IN THE SUN.
SPOTLIGHT ON TRAVEL LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 27
Learning From Each Other
ALUMNI ON CAMPUS
THE DIVERSITY OF THE FIRST AMERICANS Mrs. Almasi P’28, '32 visited our two first grade classes to teach students about Rosh Hashanah. Mrs. Almasi and the students decorated and baked their own personal challah breads. After the breads went into the oven, students enjoyed a traditional holiday treat of apples and honey. They talked about the ten days of repentance and the importance of introspection and forgiveness.
A VISIT FROM OUR PARISIAN FRIEND In 2022, Moise (now 7th grade), traveled from Paris to spend a semester with us as a 5thgrader. This week, Moise returned to Montclair with his sister, Marie (5th grade), and his family. The siblings attended classes at Lacordaire for 3 days in October. We look forward to our next reunion! À bientôt! 28
LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 LEARNING FROM EACH OTHER
Mr. Eichmann’s 7th grade classes hosted the 11th Annual Native American Fair, where they presented their research on Native American cultures to the entire school. The project each year highlights the diversity of Native American cultures in North America and gives the 7th-graders a chance to work on their public speaking skills.
STANDING UP TO BULLYING THE MIDDLE AND LOWER SCHOOL STUDENTS MET UP WITH THEIR "BIG & LITTLE SIBLINGS" DURING AN ADVISEMENT PERIOD. TOGETHER, BIGS AND LITTLES WATCHED A SHORT VIDEO ON BULLYING AND WORKED TOGETHER TO WRITE DOWN WHY THEY STAND UP TO BULLYING. IN THE END, EACH PIECE OF PAPER WAS TURNED INTO A LOOP AND GLUED (INTO A CHAIN FORMATION) TO ALL THE OTHER PIECES OF PAPER.
Out & About
ALUMNI ON CAMPUS
EXPERIENCING A ZINC MINE To complement their geology studies, Ms. Clarrett's and Mr. O'Muirithe's 3rd and 4th grade students traveled to the Sterling Hill Mining Museum in October. The museum is a former zinc mine in Ogdensburg, Sussex County. The students enjoyed putting on their helmets and headlamps to get a closer look at the mine and its elements.
The Upper School Class of 2025 gathered at Eagle Rock Reservation - on the first Sunday morning after the first day of school - to watch the sun rise over the city skyline and to commemorate their last "first day" of high school. At a small school like Lacordaire, we've gotten to know each of these young women so very well. It will bring happiness with a twinge of heartache to watch them soar through their final year at the Upper School.
WOMAN’S CLUB OF UPPER MONTCLAIR
Francis '25 and Mia '25 joined Ms. Tashjian at the Woman's Club of Upper Montclair for their first 20242025 season event at their clubhouse. "Highlights of the day included a presentation by Girls Career Institute (GCI) Delegates from Lacordaire Academy, who shared their experiences at GCI," a member of the Woman's Club reported.
Students in our Upper School National Honor Society hosted a service trip to Fresh Root Farm in Mahwah this month. The farm is owned and operated by the Mahwah Environmental Volunteers Organization (MEVO) and they promote organic, environmentally friendly farming. Our students worked on the farm and learned how to sustain nutrient-rich soil, generate healthy compost, and pick farm crops! They also got to enjoy the fruits (or perhaps "veggies") of their labor!
OUT & ABOUT LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 29
CLASS OF 2024
On Saturday, June 8th, Lacordaire held its 103rd commencement ceremony on the front lawn of James Hall (the former convent). The procession of graduates was led by highland bagpiper Julianne Brown, followed by our distinguished faculty and staff, Sisters of St. Dominic, Board members, 4 young women from the junior class, and finally, the graduates in their white gowns. Graduates will attend American University, Boston University, Caldwell University, Drexel University, Indiana University - Bloomington, Johnson and Wales University, Mount Holyoke College, Northeastern University, Rutgers University (2 students), Syracuse University (2 students), University of Connecticut, University of Michigan, and University of Vermont. Valedictorian Stephanie Mutuku ’24, who will major in Biomedical Engineering at Boston University this fall, spoke to her classmates: “Despite how vastly different I am now from who I was in my Freshman year, I am still connected to that 14-year old girl…I hope you have realized that who you are presently is not separate from who you were when you started your journey here, or who you surrounded yourself with when you got here. I see how the Lacordaire experience has shaped each of us in its own unique ways, and how we have transformed each others’ perspectives on life as a whole.” Salutatorian Milanya Navani ’24 began her speech with a short prayer from her Hindu religion and shared: “Although Lacordaire is a Catholic Institution, I am so honored that this school acknowledges all of our beliefs.” Navani then addressed her teachers, saying “At Lacordaire, our education was tailored to our interests and we were able to explore concepts that went beyond the curriculum. From service trips to engaging in conversations about current events, you have helped us thrive and grow into individual thinkers that can enter any situation with an open mind. You have created future leaders who will hopefully change hearts and minds in the world around us.”
32 LACORDAIRE FALL 2024
COMMENCEMENT
“I see how the Lacordaire experience has shaped each of us in its own unique ways, and how we have transformed each others’ perspectives on life as a whole.”
“At Lacordaire, our education was tailored to our interests and we were able to explore concepts that went beyond the curriculum. From service trips to engaging in conversations about current events, you have helped us thrive and grow into individual thinkers that can enter any situation with an open mind. You have created future leaders who will hopefully change hearts and minds in the world around us.” Lacordaire alumna Elizabeth Shehata ‘17 was this year’s commencement speaker. Shehata, currently a fourth-year medical school student with plans to specialize in psychiatry, shared her personal experiences of success and setbacks. “In your journey ahead, you will face obstacles and setbacks,” Shehata noted. “But it is your ability to bounce back that will define your success. Try, and if it doesn’t work, try again. Understand that no one can truly lift you up and provide you with a deep sense of strength besides yourself. Embrace discontentment and unhappiness as catalysts for growth, but remember - motivation driven by dissatisfaction is fleeting. When that fades away, it is your inner strength and determination that will keep you moving forward.” She encouraged the graduating students to seek out challenging experiences in order to achieve personal growth.“Remember,” Shehata urged the graduates, “something is only impossible...until you do it.”
Pictured bottom right: Middle and Upper School alumna Juliana Tapia ‘15, ‘19, (Barnard College, Columbia University ‘23) presented a diploma to her sister, Valeria Tapia ‘20, ‘24, (Mount Holyoke College ‘28). Valeria was also presented with a very special “Laco Lifer” award, given to students who have been at Lacordaire since pre-Kindergarten. UPPER SCHOOL COMMENCEMENT LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 33
“It is your ability to bounce back that will define your success. Try, and if it doesn’t work, try again...embrace discontentment and unhappiness as catalysts for growth, but remember - motivation driven by dissatisfaction is fleeting. When that fades away, it is your inner strength and determination that will keep you moving forward.”
34 LACORDAIRE FALL 2024
COMMENCEMENT
UPPER SCHOOL COMMENCEMENT LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 35
“Whether you started in pre-K or 8th grade, Lacordaire has tried to instill in all of us the golden rule – treat others as you want to be treated. It sounds so simple, but we all know it is not.’” -Joshua Chiaravallotti ’24, Valedictorian
Middle School Class of 2024
“Although my life will change in many ways as I begin the high school experience, one thing that will stay the same for me is Lacordaire. My decision to stay at Lacordaire for high school is grounded in many different things...I have been able to make friends with many of the high-schoolers and have gotten to experience the safety, happiness, and comfort the school provides...[My teachers] have nurtured me academically and spiritually, and I feel that Lacordaire is a place where I can be myself. I am incredibly thankful to everybody here today for creating that environment.” - Kate Gallop ‘24, ’28, Salutatorian
36 LACORDAIRE FALL 2024
COMMENCEMENT
Students from the Middle School Class of 2024 will attend the following high schools: Lacordaire Academy’s Upper School (5 students), Dominican Academy, Immaculate Heart Academy (2 students), Kent Place School, Newark Academy, Montclair High School (2 students), Mount St. Dominic Academy, Seton Hall Prep, Solebury School, St. Peter’s Prep (2 students, both Sheehan Scholars), and the West Orange High School Honors Program.
“Throughout the years at Laco, we learned the importance of supporting one another. Lacordaire holds many school-wide events talent shows, plays such as “the three trees” and “Shakespeare", and even presentations at morning assembly every day. We present and perform for the school community all the time. The students genuinely support all of the other students - and we love cheering each other on. We have all felt the rush of loud applause after a performance or speech. And as a result, we cheer for others and want all of the younger students to feel that rush as well. One of the best traditions at Laco is the littles program - where older students “adopt” younger students. We spend time with them at events, like helping them to shop at the Mission Bazaar. We also play games with them at littles events. This has helped us get to know the younger students and support them in all they are doing at Laco.” - Joshua Chiaravallotti ’24, Valedictorian
MIDDLE SCHOOL COMMENCEMENT LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 37
Upper School alumna Maura Harrington Logue, Ph.D. ’97, P’32, and Eilish Harrington ’04, and family, celebrate Maura’s son, Ruari ’32, at Kindergarten graduation
40 LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 KINDERGARTEN GRADUATION
The Kindergarten class of 2024 performed the song “One Step at a Time.” After the song, each student got up to the microphone and shared one thing she or he loved about their Kindergarten experience.
KINDERGARTEN GRADUATION LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 41
FALL CYO ROUND-UP
Checking in on Lacordaire Fall Sports
LACORDAIRE 5TH & 6TH AND 7TH & 8TH GRADE VOLLEYBALL TEAMS MAKE PLAYOFFS Our 5/6 and 7/8th grade Volleyball teams both had huge wins over Our Lady of Sorrows on 10/30. They will make a run in the playoffs in midNovember.
Our CYO Cross Country team participated in two successful meets this Fall season. They ran in the Saint Thomas Race at Brookdale park on October 19th and the SJA Championship meet on November 3rd in Clark, NJ.
ANNUAL DIG PINK VOLLEYBALL GAME The Upper School JV and Varsity Volleyball teams had another successful Dig Pink game, which raised money for the Side Out Foundation in support of a clinical trial for patients with stage 4 breast cancer.
42 LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 SPORTS ROUNDUP
Bunyan ‘25, setter and Varsity Volleyball Gabrielle Occeas '25, Varsity Soccer goalie, liked Celebrating Our Reyna Captain, shared that her favorite Laco Volleyball “playing against Trinity Christian Academy and memory was “game nights and team bondings where scaring/surprising our coach, showing our thanks.” Senior Athletes we enjoyed fun activities and games, growing a Katherine Fan ‘25, Varsity Volleyball stronger bond with each other.”
outside hitter (and our Student Government President), says that winning on Senior Night was her favorite fall sports memory.
SPORTS ROUNDUP LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 43
Admissions How to Apply
Student Interview
We look forward to meeting you and reviewing your application. You may begin your application by navigating to LacordaireAcademy.com/Apply.
All applicants are asked to participate in an academic assessment and/or shadow day, depending on the year applying for. Students applying for the Upper School must complete a student interview, which can be done prior to dismissal during a shadow day. Please call 973-744-1156 x12 to request a meeting and/or assessment with the Admissions Office.
Transcripts Applicants must submit three years of academic transcripts. Applicants for Pre-K and Kindergarten should submit any report of performance or behavior from their chid’s current school/ day care. Applicants to first grade must submit 1 year of transcripts.
Recommendations Teachers must fill out our comprehensive online teacher recommendation form. See LacordaireAcademy.com/Apply for details and for a link to the digital teacher recommendation forms. Note: Only 1 teacher recommendation is required for applications to Pre-K, Kindergarten, and 1st grade.
Test Scores Upper Division: SSAT Preferred. Terra Nova/NJ Ask/COOP-HSPT Exam/Parcc/ISEE are also accepted Middle Division: Terra Nova / NJ ASK / PARCC / SSAT / ISEE Grades 2-4: Submit your student’s most recent standardized test scores.
Parent Interview The parent, parents, or guardian(s) of all applicants in grades PK-12 are required to participate in a brief parent interview with the admissions office. In lieu of a formal parent interview, parents/guardians may attend a private school tour.
Important Dates The deadline to apply for admission to the Upper School is 11:59 pm on Tuesday, December 10, 2024. All materials, including supplemental materials, must be submitted by this priority deadline. Upper School applicants will receive notification of their admissions decision in January, 2025. Lower & Middle School applications are due by 11:59 pm on Monday, January 20th, 2025. The supplemental material deadline is Monday, February 24th, 2025. The Lower & Middle School admissions notification date is Monday, March 17th, 2025.
Browse Through Our Admissions Viewbook ADMISSIONS LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 45
Spreading the Gospel of Love
PACKING 100+BACKPACKS OF ESSENTIAL SUPPLIES In October, the entire campus community donated thousands of essential items; toothbrushes and toothpaste, razors, body lotion, sanitary products, and non-perishable food items, to the Campus Ministry program. Then, students in grades 512 volunteered after school to assemble over a hundred backpacks that were later donated to a local program that serves people who are experiencing homelessness.
THE POWER OF A HANDWRITTEN NOTE In each donated backpack, students included a handwritten note. Students know that a personal note to say “I’m thinking of you” or “I’m praying for you” can make a big difference. 46 LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 SPREADING THE GOSPEL OF LOVE
ANNUAL CHALK THE WALK The evening before the first day of school, the Parent Association hosted their annual “Chalk the Walk” get-together. During this event, students decorate the sidewalks with pictures and messages that radiate positivity, wishing their classmates a great school year and welcoming new students to Lacordaire.
BIG AND LITTLE SIBLING READ-ALONG Students in Ms. Alexander’s and Mr. O’Muirithe’s Pre-K and 3rd grade classes enjoyed some sunshine while participating in a “bigs and littles” read-along where the older students read aloud to the younger students.
PRE-K AND KINDERGARTEN MEET & GREET Our teachers know that entering a new school year is a big adjustment for our youngest learners and their families. Every year, the morning before the first day of school, the Pre-K and Kindergarten teaching teams invite new students and their families to Lacordaire for a brief meet and greet. During this event, students participate in a mock Morning Ceremony, hear the bell ring that signals them to proceed into class, see where they’ll be sitting in the classroom, and socialize a little bit with their new peers.
PREACHERS SPEAK AT ALL-SCHOOL MASS Upper and Middle School students who are members of the Preachers club speak at the podium during each mass and/or prayer service that is held at the Academy.
SPREADING THE GOSPEL OF LOVE LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 47
Meet Our New
Parent Association Board
Diana Mikula Co-President
Maggie Oledzki Co-President
We have been a Lacordaire family since 2018. Our daughter, Lucy, is a rising 6th grader who is on the Lacordaire track team, rowing team, and plays piano through the after school music program. She is a Middle School Ambassador, a member of the Lacordaire Forensics team, and can often be found singing and dancing in the theater performances. Outside of school, she loves horseback riding, cheer, and learning French. Lucy has made such great friends at Lacordaire, and so have we. We are extraordinarily grateful to be a part of the Lacordaire family.
We joined the Laco Family when our son Olivier entered Pre-k 4. It is hard to believe, but he is now entering 6th grade. His younger brother Julian will follow in his footsteps next year. We love Lacordaire Academy and consider ourselves very fortunate to have discovered such a prodigious school that offers an excellent education and loving atmosphere for the children. Last year Olivier was a member of the basketball team, track team and cross-country team. He also was enrolled in private guitar lessons at Laco, which he enjoyed tremendously. I have been a member of Laco PA since we joined the school. First as Class Parent and then as a Treasurer. I am super excited for the upcoming year and I am looking forward to sharing with you all the many memorable events planned for this coming year.
Nathalie Rabasca Secretary My name is Nathalie Rabasca and I am the Parent Association Secretary. My daughters have attended Lacordaire since Pre-K. Charlotte (10) is going into 5th grade, Gabrielle (8) is starting 3rd grade, and Vivian (5) will be a Kindergartner. We are very grateful to be a part of the wonderful Lacordaire community, and I look forward to serving on the PA Board this year. I have served as class parent in the past and volunteer as much as possible for various events.
48 LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 MEET OUR NEW PA BOARD
Sabrina and Jamil Allen Treasurer Co-Chairs
Hi there! Allow us to introduce ourselves, we are Sabrina and Jamil Allen, parents to Liam and Levi Allen, who are currently enjoying their time as pre-K and secondgrade students here at Lacordaire Academy. Although we've only been part of this wonderful school community for a year, we've eagerly embraced all that it has to offer. Our sons have enthusiastically participated in various activities including the track team, soccer both in and outside of school, yoga sessions, and the Lego club. At home, their favorite pastimes include playing chess and solving puzzles. We are delighted to see how much they have thrived and are looking forward to many more enriching years ahead at Lacordaire. In our short time here, Sabrina has successfully served as a class parent co-chair, while Jamil has taken on the role of track coach for the inaugural track team at Lacordaire.
Jacqueline Caroprese Events Coordinator We joined the Lacordaire family in 2018 when our oldest daughter, Giavanna, entered PreK. Two years later her brother, Gianluca, followed in her footsteps and joined Pre-K as well. We welcomed a new member of our family in the fall, Raffaella, who will be wearing a Lacordaire uniform in no time! I have been a class parent and member of the Parent Association board for a few years. I began coaching the 4th and 5th grade Lacordaire volleyball team which my daughter joined during this fall and spring season. Giavanna is a member of the debate team which proudly won a firstplace trophy in the spring! As a family we love to travel, from skiing in the mountains to surfing in the oceans, only when we aren’t traveling to our children’s sports games every weekend- we are always on the go! We look forward to a fun and exciting year.
Christina Collucci Events Coordinator This is my first year at Lacordaire. My daughter Sophia will be beginning Pre-K and is four years old. I fell in love with Laco after my friend invited me to Casino Night. I had a blast, while seeing first-hand how everyone at the school treats each other like family. I am looking forward to a great year, and many more to come!
Jaclyn Walker Events Coordinator I currently have two daughters enrolled at Lacordaire Academy. Catherine is four years old and will be starting her first year of PreK. Madeline is six years old, and will be starting first grade, which is her second year at the academy. Last year I helped my husband to coach the cross-country team, which was the best experience! My daughter Madeline loved her teachers and enjoyed every minute of learning while in school. Madeline was on the cross-country team, lego club, Yoga club, and dance club. Since joining this wonderful school in September of 2023, I have made many gracious new friends, not only with parents of students, but also with the teachers and staff. I love the school so much that I decided to join the Parent Association Board (PA). I am currently an events coordinator, and my role will be helping to plan, organize and compose the wonderful, and FUN parties/events Laco holds throughout the year.
Renée Powell Volunteer CoChair
Greetings! We have been part of the Lacordaire Community for almost 4 years, since our SONshine Chance thrived in Pre-K, and is now a rising 2nd grader. Chance participates in many of the initiatives of the Lower School, including track, soccer and enrichment programs. Outside of school, he loves swimming, tennis, gaming and coding/video game design. As a family we are true wanderlusts and are always looking for the next adventure! I’ve been a class parent since 2021 and most recently coached the inaugural 2024 spring track and field program. I genuinely enjoy being of service and look forward to contributing in any way that I can.
Gina Imperato Volunteer Co-Chair We have been at Lacordaire since 2022. Our daughter, Adeline (Addy), is a rising 8th grader. Addy has participated in five productions at the school including The Tempest, Sister Act Jr., Willy Wonka, and The Christmas Carol. She is also on Student Government, a Middle School Ambassador, on the Forensics team and a founding member of the LACO Ski & Board Club. Since joining the Lacordaire community, I have served as class parent and on the Gala committee as well as worked on the annual Used Book Sale. For the past 16 years, I’ve run my own event consulting firm, The Imperato Group, which specializes in creating content-driven events and award programs for clients such as Out of Home Advertising Association of America (OAAA), Fast Company, Covering Climate Now, Fortune, Bloomberg, Ad Age, and The Points Guy, I’m excited to be joining the Parent Association Board and to work closely with the other members of the Board, the administration, and the parents and guardians to foster and engage that community that makes the Academy special.
Jennifer Crowley-Barnett Upper School Parent Liaison We joined the Lacordaire family in 2021 when our daughter Adriana entered as a Freshman to the Upper School. I have had the pleasure of acting as the class parent of Adriana’s class since that time. Adriana is now a rising senior who loves traveling with the Preachers Club on their annual service trip every summer, participating in the annual school musical, and playing on the school's volleyball and softball teams! Our son Logan is a rising Junior at Seton Hall Prep. We live in South Orange. I work full time at NYU Langone Health in Manhattan as a Nursing Professional Development Specialist for the Operating Rooms. We could not be happier with the education and experience Adriana has had at LACO and I am looking forward to acting as the Upper School Liaison during Adriana’s final year at LACO!
MEET OUR NEW PA BOARD LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 49
Development 2023-2024 Impact Report Lacordaire Academy wishes to extend its gratitude to all the parents, alumnae/i, parents of alumnae/i, grandparents, Sisters of Saint Dominic, friends, corporations and foundations who supported us during the fiscal year. July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024 Our donors are partners in our work. 50 LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 DEVELOPMENT
Pictured: Lower School students receive their diplomas at the end of the school year in 1926
Help us reach our $350,000 fundraising goal before June 30, 2025.
Make a Donation to the Annual Fund. DEVELOPMENT LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 51
OUR DONORS ALUMNI/AE 33% FACULTY & STAFF 12% PARENTS & GRANDPARENTS OF ALUMNI 11% CURRENT PARENTS 27% TRUSTEES 5% ORGANIZATIONS 1% CORPORATIONS 4% GRANDPARENTS OF CURRENT STUDENTS 2% FOUNDATIONS 5%
52 LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 DEVELOPMENT
FUNDRAISING REVENUE $636,456.00
ANNUAL FUND 39% FOUNDATION GRANTS 11% EVENTS 23% RESTRICTED DONATIONS 23% TUITION ANGEL 1% 50/50 RAFFLE 3%
FUNDRAISING EXPENSES $73,408.00
DEVELOPMENT LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 53
Snapshots from campus
54 LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 DEVELOPMENT
THE ANNUAL FUND Many of our supporters make a difference by supporting the Annual Fund. Tuition alone does not cover the total cost of educating a student at Lacordaire. Donations supplement tuition and help us to meet our operating budget.
FOUNDATIONS In the past fiscal year, Lacordaire secured grants from the following charitable foundations: Blanche M. Walsh Charity Trust Cestone Family Foundation Deborah Lee Wachsman Trust Investors Foundation James A. Pinaire III Foundation Inc. John L. & Grace P. Soldoveri Foundation, Inc. Lewis M. Gabbe Foundation McMullen Family Foundation Monte Sacro Foundation Nicholas Martini Foundation The New York Community Trust The Theresa & Edward O'Toole Foundation Waldele Family Foundation
MELISSA MARTINEZ MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP Andrea Hurt '03 Oscar & Bertha Martinez P'03 Katherine Tully '02
DENNIS AND CYNTHIA MIKULA SCHOLARSHIP FUND Christine James, OPA, '83, '87 James Kosch Dennis & Diana Mikula P'27 Drew & Nancy Mikula
TUITION ANGELS The following donors gave the gift of a Lacordaire education to deserving students through tuition support: Anonymous Blanche M. Walsh Charity Trust Dr. Denise Brown-Allen Cestone Family Foundation James A. Pinaire III Foundation Inc. Monte Sacro Foundation Waldele Family Foundation Elaine Bauer Zabriskie '69
Lucy Mikula '27 Denise & Paul Nebesni Sebastian & Nancy Pandolfo G'27 Barry Roy & Angela Pandolfo Roy Catherine Sogorka George & Susan Turner Stephanie Brock Wasvary '93 Ed & Jeanmarie Wieczerzak
ADVANCED SCIENCE ACADEMY CherylAnne Piegaro Amendola '02 Brian & Therese Baird P'02, '05 Rob & Laura Gawley P'15, '02 Mary Patricia Kelly
VERONICA E. JAMES SCHOLARSHIP
Kaitlin Baird Noyes '02
Christine James, OPA, '83, '87 Norman James P'83, '87 ♰
Katherine Tully '02
Darlene Rasmusson Natalia Sardo '02 & Juan Zuluaga
DEVELOPMENT LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 55
The 2023-2024 Donor Leadership Circle Dinner Halcyon, Upper Montclair 56 LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 DEVELOPMENT
1920 CIRCLE $20,000 and Above:
TRUSTEES CIRCLE $2,500 and Above
Mary Anne von Schaumburg Burns '79
Anonymous
Mary Elizabeth Gleason Dannemiller '72
Blanche M. Walsh Charity Trust
Christine James, OPA, '83, '87
Douglas & Marcela Crossman P'29
Norman James P'83, '87 ♰
Deborah Lee Wachsman Trust
The Theresa & Edward O'Toole Foundation
Louise Snider Dunn '60 on behalf of the The Dunn Family Charitable Foundation
LUMEN CIRCLE $15,000 and Above Brandon & Jacqueline Caroprese P'28, '30
Michael Fleming & GiGi Paralkar P'29 Caryn Johnson G'29 Jon Leslie & Michelle Kehily P'32 Monte Sacro Foundation Mosi & Toni Nadal P'30, '33
SISTERS OF ST. DOMINIC CIRCLE $10,000 and Above Lisa and Joseph Amato The New York Community Trust
HEAD OF SCHOOL'S CIRCLE $5,000 and Above Cestone Family Foundation Mary Anne Ford Andrea Hurt '03 Investors Foundation James A. Pinaire III Foundation Inc. McMullen Family Foundation Dennis & Diana Mikula P'27 Victoria J. Perkins Simply Gourmet LLC Sean Strasburg & Jennifer Frazier P'25, '28
Monika & Kurt Robertson P'24 Tommy Hilfiger School Uniforms Waldele Family Foundation Jaclyn & Michael Walker P'32, '34
BENEFACTORS CIRCLE $1,000 and Above Laura & Peter Almasi P'28, '32 Anonymous Assisted Living Locators of Essex County & NW New Jersey Adonia & Dora Ayebare P'23, '26 Mary Birmingham '72 Paul & Melody Brown Dr. Denise Brown-Allen Mary Cay Menk Cancelosi '70 Joan Cavalero '72 Jill & William Corrigan P'24 Fred & Allyson Crespo P'33 Dr. Lesly D'Ambola '74 Joseph D'Arco & Louise Palagano P'05, '10 Marianne Hyzak Ehinger '76 Assemblyman Thomas Giblin Marie Grover P'25 Margaret Hanratty '65 William & Joan Hearst John L. & Grace P. Soldoveri Foundation, Inc. Katherine Mallon Johnson '65 Aricelle Inigo & Marc Johnson P'30 Lewis M. Gabbe Foundation Fernando Maddock '88 Benefactors Circle continued on next page
DEVELOPMENT LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 57
A selection of photos of volunteers from the 2023-2024 school year
58 LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 DEVELOPMENT
BENEFACTORS CIRCLE (CONT’D) $1,000 and Above: Seth & Tara Mankin P'21 Megan & Justin Mannato Bertha & Oscar Martinez P'03 Jane Morgan P'83, '85, '87, '91 Nicholas Martini Foundation Sister Luella Ramm, OP Christopher & Lu-Ann Reilly P'11 Eugene & Mary Ryan Thornton P'08 John & Ming Ryan P'26 Mary Anne Conti Salmon '64 Ryan Salvi Sisters of Saint Dominic Carol O'Connor Toolan '60 Stephen & Anne Utley P'12 Stephan Vallillo & Maryann Chach P'01, '05 Stephanie Brock Wasvary '93 Natalia Sardo '02 & Juan Zuluaga
SCHOLARS CIRCLE $500 and Above 1G Vending Patricia Keegan Abels '69 Murray Aitken & Cynthia Corhan-Aitken Hugh Arthurs & Carla Anderson-Arthurs P'20 Earl & Marisol Beecham P'27 Suzanne Bilicska Marybeth Boger P'24 Drs. Nicholas & Nancy Chiaravalloti P'18, '19, '24 Megan Connolly '89 Nick De Toustain Valerie DePiro '79 Nancy Frohling '74, '78 Deidre Hollywood '97 The Jubilee Family P'26 Saydi Callahan-Keefe & David Keefe P'30, '33 Peter Kelly & Ruth Morris Sarah Lacz '99 Joseph McAllister G'25
Carol Shulver McDougall '52, '56 Janet Megna Sarah O'Neill Meyer '62 Drew & Nancy Mikula Carol Monroe Brian F. Morgan Hugh Moriarty, III Jessica Muro Anna Navatta, OPA Kaitlin Baird Noyes '02 Sebastian & Nancy Pandolfo G'27 Noreen Morgan Petraitis '83 Barry Roy & Angela Pandolfo Roy Matthew Slowinski & Sally Atkins P'13, '17, '19 Ann Marie Tomassoni McCabe '75, '79 Katherine Tully '02 Carolyn von Schaumburg '89 Denise & Ira Wagner Elaine Bauer Zabriskie '69
DEVELOPMENT LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 59
A selection of photos of volunteers from the 2023-2024 school year
60 LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 DEVELOPMENT
FRIENDS CIRCLE $250 and Above: Tama Barsh Andres '76 Mark & Leslie Beck Stephanie Bilinski '94 Rawn & Ayana Brown P'22 Champion Waste Removal Mark & Debbie Cohen G'28, '30 Patricia Bruinooge Conaton '64 Tiffany & Anton Cunningham P'31 Nancy Dicristo P'27 LeeAnn Easterlin Ann Costello Gaudreaux '67 Jan Cozzolino Gavzy '60 Mona Gerdes Megan Griffin Ximena Brittan Gunusen & Cem Gunusen Mohini & Ashish Jaiswal P'26 William Jarrett & Gina Imperato P'25 Denise Burke & Matt Jenkins P'24, '27 Joy Chia & Rebecca Martin P'29 Marissa & Alex Klapwald Janet & Daniel Kornstein G'28, '32 Kurt & Tania Levins P'28 Donna & Kevin McMonagle P'24 Robert & Gail Meighan '60 The Mercier Club Charles & Phyllis Nouhan G'09, '11 Mark Nouhan P'09, '11 Sean Orso James Ott & Elizabeth Thoms-Ott P'19 Richard Pitera Renee Reso Al Rhodeman & Hope Bailey-Rhodeman P'13, '19 Rider Transportation Joanne Spallone Staats '64 Kaitlyn Tashjian Jeffrey & Amanda Turcotte P'14, '26, '28, '32 Elizabeth M. Van Houten '68, '72 Virginia Woo & Bertrand Dulac
SUPPORTER Anonymous CherylAnne Piegaro Amendola '02 John Anderson & Donna McMahon Anderson '65 Georgette & Brian Anderson P'32 Bryan & Gina Andes P'26, '30 Tyler Andreula Kellie & James Atkins P'24 Brian & Therese Baird P'02, '05 Anne Shami Bakas '00 Jennifer Crowley-Barnett & Corrie Barnett P'25 Andrea Birnbaum Desiree Boone
Deborah Brown Samantha Syblis & Peter Brown P'29 Delanya Dubinson & Romal Bullock P'30 Sofia Ceballo '23 Allison Linfante Christian '94 Jenna Utkewicz Cianci '74, '78
Ashley King James Kosch Julie Lau Louise Lawless Delaney '54, '58 Harold Leibovitz & Suzanne Chollet P'10 Margaret Lavery Leo '60
Michele H. Ciment '69, '73 Mike Colon Patricia Conheeney & Michelle DeWitt P'20 Blake Cook '99
Leslie McDevitt Lewis '69 Irma Obal Lucca '81 Eleanor Mintz Malone '48, '52 Margot L. Mann '64
Deborah V.H. Cook P'99 Thomas W. Corbo Kathleen Crann '62, '66 Lisa Della Volpe Dennin '75, '79
Margaret Conti Manna '71 Eleanor Mariano & Victorino Hernandez P'26 Milos & Biljana Marinkovic P'25 Leonard Marinzulich & Linda Spinella Marinzulich
Margarita DeSantos Ken Staats & Teresa Di Staso '74, '78 Charles & Ann Marie DiLorenzo '60, P'88 John Eichmann Shane Faber & Elizabeth Burkland P'15 Beth Clemens Faherty '80 Eunice Schubert Fallon '48 Edward Fanning '64 Patricia Feola & Juan Febrero P'27 Ramonita & Noel Feliciano P'25, '27 Nadege & Farah Felisbret P'28 Sameeda Ali & Jaime Fernandez P'33 Bernadette Ferraro '70 Sara Ferry Cynthia Griffin Flackman '72 Robert Flanagan & Elizabeth O'Brien Flanagan '77 Rose Fenelon Frola '67 Louise & Andrew Gallop P'24, '28 Jane Foulkrod Galvin '64 Catherine Garrabrant '90, '94 Rob & Laura Gawley P'15, '02 Theresa & Michael Giarrusso P'25 Dr. Victoria DeSantos & Kirk Gibbons P'28, '31, '34 Gileen Wambua & Charles Muinde P'24 Susan Goldstein Julio Gonzalez & Veronica Christopoulos P'25 Richard A. Guarino P'93 Janet Macaluso Hanasik '82, '86 Jennifer & Joshua Hancher P'30, 32 Lyn Headley-Deavours Mary Beth Hennessy-Shotter '91 Erika Herrera P'25 Andrew & Laura Heyman P'15, '18 Onika Higa P'27, '29 Deborah & Peter Hirsch Zebradedra Hunter '12 Rachael Jarosz Jay & Catherine Reyes P'24 Amy Eileen Jerbasi Duggan '84 Chanelle Johnson Karine Kasbarian P'33 Sister Mary John Kearney, OP Sean & Marjorie Keating P'27 Michael & Elizabeth Keefe G'30, '33 Mary Patricia Kelly Patricia Kenny '72
'77, '81, P'08, '12, '14 Marie Monte Matri '63 Brittany McFarlane Andreula Mary Ann McKenna G'10 Mary Alice Boylan '84 Richard & Margaret Melore P'22, '26 Lucy Mikula '27 Kara Thayer & Winston Miller P'33 Pauline Powell-Mills & Dennis D. Mills G'31 Aston Minto G'29 Kelly Stevens Mock '83 Allison & Staci Moore P'32 Kathleen Mortenson Mosesian '66 Sister Marie Mueller, OP Vikas & Sherrina Navani P'24, '27 Denise & Paul Nebesni Ethan Nouhan '11 John O'Connell '55 John T. O'Donnell ♰ Craig Ogelby Michael O'Melia & Elizabeth Collins O'Melia '83 Florence O'Sullivan Elizabeth Owen, OPA '11 Mary Wilson Owen '72, P'11 Anne Palermo Veronica Alcon & Ray Panday P'26 John Peck Sister Lena Picillo, OP Carlos Pomares Michael & Nathalie Rabasca P '28, '30, '33 Darlene Rasmusson Julia Rearden '22 Dallas Reed Tracey Reed Kelly Reilly McCarthy '11 Keisha Reives Carlos Reyes & Dannievi Castillon-Reyes P'26, '29, '31 Sidorela Risto P'24, P'27 Natalie Roche P'09 Thomas & Sharon Rondinella P'05, '07, '09 Alexandra Schmidl Rosenthal '90 Agnes Sauser P'04, '08 Jessica Schomaker Brenda Roscoe Shire '76 Margaret Shultz P'98, '01
DEVELOPMENT LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 61
Photos from the 2023 Gala honoring the Book Sale Team Il Tulipano • Cedar Grove, NJ 62 LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 DEVELOPMENT
Renée Powell-Simmonds P'31 Edward J. Skillin
Jennifer & Steven Gabel P'30 The George
Alexander Smolar Alexandra Smolarova Rosemary Rimmele Snow '62, '66 Catherine Sogorka Bart Stankiewicz P'29
Theresa & Michael Giarrusso P'25 Hardbodyz Fitness Christine James, OPA, '83, '87 William Jarrett & Gina Imperato P'25 Jenkinson's Aquarium
Sister Pat Stringer, OP Nicole & Brian Strope P'25 Alice Sturzinger G'11, '17 Geraldine & Robert Tavares P'83 Sister Patricia Tavis, OP Linda Telesco Kristina TenEyck
Jim Dandy's Jon Leslie & Michelle Kehily P'32 Elise Brandenburg & Ahmed Kassim P'32 Kidville Montclair Liberty Science Center Delaney Lima
Garry Vass Lidia & John Vira G'28 Patricia Wagner '03 Jane M. Wallace
Megan & Justin Mannato Mayo Performing Arts Center Medieval Times Steve Meserlian P'27
Anita Hinchliffe Weiss '54, '58 Drs. Jeffrey & Rosaline Whitworth P'16, '18, '19, '23 Ed & Jeanmarie Wieczerzak Dean Wight Spencer Wight Cymone & Anthony Williamson P'23, 27 Dr. Jennifer Zinman
Dennis & Diana Mikula P'27 Montclair Art Museum Montclair Culinary Academy Montclair Film Montclair State University Ice Arena Morey's Piers Waterpark William & Joanne Morton P'25, '29 Mr. Cupcakes New Moon Photography Chris & Jade Newkirk P'27 Lilah & Marcus Nicolaidis P'25 NY Red Bulls Daniel & Magdalena Oledzki P'27 Pan American Coffee Co. Paper Mill Playhouse Piazza Della Sole Providence Fencing Academy Christopher & Lu-Ann Reilly P'11 Santokh Yoga & Wellness Scream Truck Simply Gourmet LLC Curtis Sittenfeld Julieta Alvarez & Bart Stankiewicz P'30 State Theatre of New Jersey Steve & Kate's Camp Stumpy's Hatchet House Tommy Hilfiger School Uniforms Urban Air Trampoline & Adventure Park Rick & Lisa Vermeulen P'25, '27 Andre Watts & Alexandra GarciaWatts, Esq. P'24, '25 Whole Foods Susan Worth P'11, '17 Yarnia
IN KIND DONATIONS Donations of Goods & Services Acme Markets Foundation American Dream Juan Arias & Kristi Mishler P'26 Athleta Steven & Kristin Beckler P'24 Suzanne Bilicska Brookdale Shoprite Brandon & Jacqueline Caroprese P'28, '30 Cedar Grove Garden Center Drs. Nicholas & Nancy Chiaravalloti P'18, '19, '24 Chocolate Fantasia Daniel & Rachele Cohen P'28, '30 Evelyn Colbert Crayola Experience Sahwa Diaz Defrank & Joseph Defrank P'25, '26 Ken Staats & Teresa Di Staso '74, '78 Doherty Enterprises Enzo Pizzeria & Restaurant Faubourg Montclair Joseph Fazio & Stephanie Russo Fazio '83, '87, P'13, '17, '19 First Serve Tennis Fleet Feet Michael Fleming & GiGi Paralkar P'29 Fred Astaire Dance Studio Frederic's Fine Jewelers
EVENT SUPPORTERS Gala Fernando & Julie Acevedo P'28 Sameeda Ali & Jaime Fernandez P'33 Sabrina & Jamil Allen P'31, '33 Will Williams & Mary Allensworth-Williams P'24, P'28 Laura & Peter Almasi P'28, '32 Bryan & Gina Andes P'26, '30 Juan Arias & Kristi Mishler P'26 Balady Productions Mark & Leslie Beck Earl & Marisol Beecham P'27 Kate Bielitz Suzanne Bilicska Marybeth Boger P'24 Mollie Boylan '86 Jennifer & Bradley Colwell P'29, '30 Ximena Brittan Gunusen Denise Burke & Matt Jenkins P'24, '27 Shane Faber & Elizabeth Burkland P'15 Kathleen Burns '86 Amy Canning & Michael Dell P'33 Brandon & Jacqueline Caroprese P'28, '30 Nicholas & Nancy Chiaravalloti P'18, '19, '24 Mariann Cavallaro Harold Leibovitz & Suzanne Chollet P'10 Daniel & Rachele Cohen P'28, '30 Fred & Allyson Crespo P'33 Douglas & Marcela Crossman P'29 Connie Crowell Jennifer Crowley-Barnett & Corrie Barnett P'25 Lesly D'Ambola '74 Beverly Davison & Dr. Philip Walden 'P27 Dr. Victoria DeSantos & Kirk Gibbons P'28, '31, '34 Robert & Lauren DeSopo P'18, '25 Terri DeLucia '74, '78 Valerie DePiro '79 Nancy Dicristo P'27 Ken Staats & Teresa Di Staso '74, '78 Delanya Dubinson & Romal Bullock P'30 Maria Ferrara P'26 Sara Ferry Mary Anne Ford Jennifer & Steven Gabel P'30 Louise & Andrew Gallop P'24 Assemblyman Thomas Giblin Theresa & Michael Giarrusso P'25 Alexandra Giorgio Megan Griffin Gikas Painting & Contracting Guymar Construction Straight Edge Construction, Inc. William & Joan Hearst William Jarrett & Gina Imperato P'25 Aricelle Inigo & Marc Johnson P'30 Christine James, OPA, '83, '87 J.W. Pierson Co.
DEVELOPMENT LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 63
Snapshots from campus
64 LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 DEVELOPMENT
EVENT SUPPORTERS Gala (continued)
EVENT SUPPORTERS Casino Night
Sean & Marjorie Keating P'27 Saydi Callahan-Keefe & David Keefe P'30, '33 Marissa & Alex Klapwald Ellen Lafferty & Joseph Morrissey P'26, '29, '31 Kristen Haack LaPorta '86 Anna Lee
Leonard Marinzulich & Linda Spinella Marinzulich '77, '81, P'08, '12, '14 McCormack Plumbing and Heating
Sameeda Ali & Jaime Fernandez P'33 Sabrina & Jamil Allen P'31, '33 Juan Arias & Kristi Mishler P'26 Maryjo Anzaldi-Foster Melissa Ballard & Ron Bauer P'25, '28 Suzanne Bilicska Marybeth Boger P'24 Virna & Keith Brandofino P'26 Selena Brogan '99 Donna Bruno G'28, G'30 Brandon & Jacqueline Caroprese P'28, '30 Drs. Nicholas & Nancy Chiaravalloti P'18, '19, '24 Daniel & Rachele Cohen P'28, '30 Jennifer & Bradley Colwell P'29, '30
Brittany McFarlane Andreula Kathy McFarlane
Baden Copeland P'26 Fred & Allyson Crespo P'33
Mary Ann McKenna Donna & Kevin McMonagle P'24
Douglas & Marcela Crossman P'29 Jennifer Crowley-Barnett & Corrie Barnett P'25
Frances Leon P'30 Michael Leonardis David Eskew & Keira LoBreglio P'26 Elliott-Lewis Megan & Justin Mannato Marcel Kitchen & Bakery
Dennis & Diana Mikula P'27 Hugh Moriarty, III Mosi & Toni Nadal P '30, '33 Anna Navatta, OPA Rita & Joseph Naviello P'27 Mark Nouhan P'09, '11 Sean Orso Joseph D'Arco & Louise Palagano P'05, '10 Michael Fleming & GiGi Paralkar P'29 Protective Measures
Beverly Davison & Dr. Philip Walden 'P27 Jill Del Pozzo '05 Dr. Victoria De Santos & Kirk Gibbons P'28, '31, '34 Robert & Lauren DeSopo P'18, '25 Jason Dias Susan Dominguez P'28 Susan Drew
Michael Rains Christopher & Lu-Ann Reilly P'11
Delanya Dubinson & Romal Bullock P'30 Janine Evans Ramonita & Noel Feliciano P'25, '27
Renee Reso Diana Riccioli
Maria Ferrara P'26 Sara Ferry
Monika & Kurt Robertson P'24 Carlos Gonzalez & Ana Rombola Gonzalez P'24 Eugene & Mary Ryan Thornton Lisa Schweitzer Sisters of St. Dominic of Caldwell, NJ, Inc. Montserrat Soler P'27 Stobbs Printing Sean Strasburg & Jennifer Frazier P'25, '28 Nicole & Brian Strope P'25 Kaitlyn Tashjian Daria & Orest Temnycky P'11 Kara Thayer & Winston Miller P'33 Amanda Turcotte P'14, '26, '28, '32 Steve & Anne Utley P'12 Jaclyn & Michael Walker P'32, '34 Carolyn von Schaumburg-Brickner '89 Cymone & Anthony Williamson P'23, 27 Dr. Jennifer Zinman
Ruth Frazier Jennifer & Steven Gabel P'30 Michael & Whitney Gallagher P'26 Louise & Andrew Gallop P'24 Kate Garrabrant '90, '94 Allison Gecik Isabel & Carlos Guerra P'27 Hatfield Schwartz Law Group Maureen Hester P'16 William Jarrett & Gina Imperato P'25 Mohini & Ashish Jaiswal P'26 Christine James, OPA, '83, '87 Kamal & Salam Jbeili P'17, '24 Karine Kasbarian P'33 Marissa & Alex Klapwald Susan Kobylarz '99 John Kopchak Sarah Lacz '99 Ellen Lafferty & Joseph Morrissey P'26, '29, '31 Anna Lee Frances Leon P'30
Kurt & Tania Levins P'28 Jessica Lutz Barbara & Anthony Macina P'26 Teresa Mancuso '90 Megan & Justin Mannato Mary Marinelli Leonard Marinzulich & Linda Spinella Marinzulich '77, '81, P'08, '12, '14 Daniel Marzabal Donna & Kevin McMonagle P'24 Steve Meserlian P'27 Hugh Moriarty, III William & Joanne Morton P'25, '29 Mosi & Toni Nadal P'30, '33 Nanina's In The Park Rita & Joseph Naviello P'27 Elizabeth Owen, OPA '11 Joseph D'Arco & Louise Palagano P'05, '10 Suvasini & Anup Patel P'32 Myrial & Ole Pedersen, P'25 Talia & Ernest Pope P'32 Michael & Nathalie Rabasca P '28, '30, '33 Monika & Kurt Robertson P'24 Dara Sanderson P'27 Lee Schilare Lisa Schweitzer Jennifer Sepulveda & Alcibiades Montas P'32 Catherine Sneyers Amanda Turcotte P'14, '26, '28, '32 Steve & Anne Utley P'12 Denise & Ira Wagner Jaclyn & Michael Walker P'32 Cymone & Anthony Williamson P'23, 27
VOLUNTEERS Volunteers support our mission by sharing their time, talent and expertise. We thank all who volunteered for Lacordaire during the 2023-2024 school year.
Every effort has been made to assure accurate reporting of contributions. ♰ Deceased
DEVELOPMENT LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 65
Create a Legacy for Lacordaire Students: Make a Planned Gift Lacordaire Academy has been important to you in your life, and your planned, or estate, gift will have a lasting impact on future generations of Lacordaire students. All donors who make planned gifts will become members of The Veritas Society at Lacordaire Academy.
For questions on making a planned gift to Lacordaire, please contact Denise Wagner, Director of Major Gifts. dwagner@lacordaire.net; 973-494-7678.
66 LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 DEVELOPMENT
Planned gifts to Lacordaire can save taxes for you and your estate, and certain planned gifts can provide income to you or your heirs. The main types of planned gifts include: Bequest to Lacordaire in your Will. Naming Lacordaire a beneficiary of your IRA/other retirement fund/insurance policy.
VERITAS SOCIETY
Lacordaire Academy
For people 70 ½ years and over, a qualified charitable distribution (QCD) from your IRA to Lacordaire. Donating appreciated securities to Lacordaire. Charitable trusts (lead or remainder) that include Lacordaire. Gifts of homes, art, or personal property to Lacordaire.
DEVELOPMENT LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 67
WHO WE ARE
68 LACORDAIRE FALL 2024
WHO WE ARE LACORDAIRE FALL 2024 69
ADMINISTRATION
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Megan Mannato
July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025
Head of School
Suzanne Bilicska, M.Ed. Associate Head of School
Karen Arnone Director of Finance and HR Mark Beck Registrar
OFFICERS Chair Christine James, OPA ’83, ‘87 Vice-Chair Elaine Bauer Zabriskie ‘69 Secretary Anne Utley, OPA P’12
Nick DeToustain Director of Development;
Treasurer
World Language Department Chair
Carol Monroe
Saydi Callahan Keefe
Institutional Advancement Committee Chair
Director of Admissions
Marissa P. Klapwald Director of Advancement
Kelly Reilly McCarthy ’11
Louise Palagano Caldwell Dominican Council Sponsorship Director Sr. Patricia Tavis, OP
Director of Marketing;
MEMBERS AT LARGE
Assistant Director of Admissions
Marybeth Boger, PhD, P’24 Paul M. Brown
Elizabeth Owen, OPA ’11
William S. Hearst
Director of Operations
Sr. Mary John Kearney, OP
Kaitlyn Tashjian, OPA Director of Guidance
Mary Ryan Thornton P’08 Director of Curriculum Enhancement
Megan Mannato, Ex-officio, Head of School Hugh M. Moriarty, III Anna P. Navatta, OPA Sr. Lena Picillo, OP Carolyn von Schaumburg Brickner ‘89
Spencer Vining
Trustees Emeriti
Director of Technology
Sr. Bertrand Austin, OP ♰ Sr. Mary Immaculate McGovern, OP
Denise Wagner Director of Major Gifts
Jennifer Zinman, PhD Director of Inclusion
70 LACORDAIRE FALL 2024
Brian F. Morgan, Head of School Emeritus
The Power of Partnership
ANNUAL FUND SUPPORT All the things you love about Lacordaire are supported by the Annual Fund!
Professional development and resources for our faculty
Service-learning opportunities and field trips
TRAVEL
Technology upgrades
Campus maintenance and improvements
Enhancements for performing and visual arts programs
Increased extracurricular athletic programming
TRADITION
Donors Make an Impact Every Day. The support and generosity of our community – parents, alumni, friends, foundations, faculty, board and staff – allow students to enjoy a rigorous curriculum in a nurturing and empowering environment. Giving at any level propels Lacordaire forward and makes all the things you love about Lacordaire possible.
Tuition does not cover the total cost of educating a student at Lacordaire. Your donation enhances educational experience we can offer our students. This yeartheour Annual Fund Goal that is $350,000.
Donate today at ilovelaco.com
Visit ilovelaco.com and partner with us through Annual Fund support. For more information, please contact Marissa Klapwald, Director of Advancement Call or email the Lacordaire Advancement Office (973-744-1156, ext. 33; development@lacordaire.net) [mklapwald@lacordaire.net / 973-744-1156, ext. 33]. for information on recurring donations, matching gifts, planned giving options, or to donate stock.
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Lacordaire Academy
Magazine
Lacordaire Academy 155 Lorraine Avenue Upper Montclair, NJ 07043
“At Lacordaire, our education was tailored to our interests and we were able to explore concepts that went beyond the curriculum. From service trips to engaging in conversations about current events, you have helped us thrive and grow into individual thinkers that can enter any situation with an open mind.
You have created future leaders who will hopefully change hearts and minds in the world around us.” – Milanya Navani ’24, Upper School Salutatorian