Lauralton HALLMARKS MAGAZINE
THE ACADEMY OF OUR LADY OF MERCY, LAURALTON HALL
SPRING 2017
FORGING THE CAMPUS OF THE 21 ST CENTURY A TRIBUTE TO DR. TONI IADAROLA
L AUR ALTON H A LL
Since her appointment, Dr. Toni has been a catalyst for Lauralton Hall—enriching academic and athletics programs, enhancing teaching and guidance environments, and elevating support for the performing arts. We will deeply miss our pint-sized powerhouse.
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—Trudy A. Dickneider, Ph.D., ’64, Chair, Board of Trustees
CONTENTS F E AT U R E S 2 4
Q & A WITH THE PRESIDENT A T R I B U T E TO TO N I I A DA R O L A
Lauralton Hallmarks Spring 2017
President and Head of School Dr. Toni Iadarola Principal Cynthia Gallant Director of Enrollment Management Kathleen O. Shine Director of Institutional Advancement Lisa M. Hottin
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B E C AU S E W E B E L I E V E ... T H E C A M PA I G N F O R L AU R A LTO N H A L L S PA R K L E S G A L A
Director of Finance and Administration Vincent L. Vigliotti Director of Alumnae Relations Mikayla Tatigian ’09 Director of Annual Giving Casey Wright
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F O R T H E 21 ST C E N T U RY
Lauralton is positioned to thrive in this 21 st Century, to adapt
and excel in a rapidly changing educational environment.
The features in this issue describe Lauralton’s response to
learning and teaching in the 21 st century.
Editor Diane Siroky Contributing Writers Lisa Hottin Barb Ruppert Diane Siroky Mikayla Tatigian ’09 Photography Peter Baker Studios Photography by Lisa Garcia Michelle Babyak Photography On the Cover Science teacher April Kelley ’85 works with students in the Innovation Lab. Photography by Peter Baker Studios, Fairfield, Conn.
Lauralton Hallmarks is published twice a year for alumnae, parents, faculty, staff and friends of the Lauralton community. © 2017 Please send address changes to: Lauralton Hall 200 High Street Milford, Connecticut 06460 Attention: Lauralton Hallmarks
D E PA R T M E N TS 20
IN THE NEWS
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D E A R LY D E PA RT E D
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C L A SS N OT E S
Letters to the editor can be sent to the above address or by email to Hallmarks@lauraltonhall.org. Alumnae are encouraged to submit articles, information and photographs to Alumnae Relations at the above address or by email to alumnaerelations@lauraltonhall.org.
A T R I B U T E T O T O N I I A DA R O L A
Q & A WI T H T H E PR E S I D E N T We recently spoke with President and Head of School Antoinette (Toni) Iadarola, Ph.D., asking her to share her thoughts on her legacy and Lauralton’s future as she prepares to retire.
future. We asked ourselves questions like: Staying faithful to the Mercy tradition, what would we like Lauralton to become 10 years from now? What transformations must take place in empowering young women and instilling in them the skill set they will need for success in college and the workplace in the 21st century?
L AUR ALTON H A LL
Q: Dr. Iadarola, we know that you came out of retirement to become president of Lauralton Hall in July 2009. What attracted you to the position? A: I’d heard of Lauralton’s outstanding reputation. I was impressed that for over 100 years, rooted in the spirit of the Sisters of Mercy, the school had championed the power of an all-girls learning environment and had been true to its original mission: educating young women to be independent, globally responsible and prepared to meet the challenges in creating a more just society. The values were very much in keeping with my own background and experiences, particularly the education of women. I became passionate and excited about making a contribution!
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Q: What, in your estimation, is your greatest achievement during your time at Lauralton Hall? A: I believe I have only one talent, and that is bringing out the talent in others. Lauralton has an extraordinarily gifted faculty, staff and students. Working closely with our Board of Trustees, together we harnessed the passion and enthusiasm of the Lauralton community to collaboratively create a shared vision for the school’s
Out of that strategic vision came action plans. Einhorn, Yaffee and Prescott worked with us to create a campus plan. The campus community gathered to hammer out a re-statement of the mission. The Board launched a capital campaign in 2012 with a working goal of $3 million, a target goal that was changed to $6 million when the campaign went public in 2015. We have surpassed our goal, the largest amount ever raised for Lauralton Hall and in the shortest period of time!
Some of the successes of the campaign include the construction of the Flavia P. Finucane Center for College Planning and Guidance, the Internet Café, an artificial turf field and practice track, the Innovation Lab, increased funds for financial assistance and professional development, classroom and technology enhancements and new curricular additions such as Chinese, robotics, engineering, coding and women’s studies. Fundraising continues for converting the historic carriage barn to become our new Center for the Visual and Performing Arts.
Q: In the years ahead, how does Lauralton remain faithful to its Catholic roots and tradition yet continue to be open to students of all faiths?
into science, technology and engineering fields, where women are underrepresented. Lauralton’s arts programs will continue to grow as well, as we transform our carriage barn into the Center for the Visual and Performing Arts.
A: Inclusivity is a hallmark of a Mercy education. I’ve talked to a lot of alumnae over the years, and Lauralton has always been unabashedly a Catholic school—but it has never been a school only for Catholics. Right from its inception, it has opened its doors to girls of all faiths. I liked Pope Francis’s highly inclusive terminology in declaring that everyone is redeemed through Jesus, not just Catholics. Q: Given Lauralton’s 112 years as a Milford institution, what do you see as the school’s role in the community going forward? A: While we attract students from 35 towns, we have been very involved in our hometown of Milford. Community service is an integral part of the student experience, and as members of the Chamber of Commerce, our faculty, staff and students participate in their community service projects. We work with the United Way of Milford, local churches, the Milford Senior Center, Milford Garden Club, Milford Young Women’s Club and the Kiwanis Club, to name a few organizations. We have been designated as an Audubon campus and have been certified by the National Wildlife Federation as a Wildlife Habitat. We are also members of the Green Alliance. All of these recognitions coincide with Milford’s growing interest in going green. We have a good partnership with Milford, which I am sure will continue.
Q: What’s your next reinvention? A: Personally, I don’t see retirement as an end. It’s another journey of becoming and being. Actually, one of my worries is that I’m going to do too many things! I’d like to become more involved in my town of Clinton. I’d like to continue my research and writing in educational areas and spend more time with my growing family and friends. Travel will be important to me in connecting with family and worldwide friends. When I leave, I know I will take Lauralton with me. It will always remain in my heart!
S P R I N G 2017
Q: What else do you see ahead for Lauralton? A: We will continue to send more and more alumnae
Q: What will you miss most about Lauralton? A: The community—the manner in which we care for each other and celebrate our Catholic and Mercy core values. And, most of all, the students! I am inspired by their love of learning and their idealism. I was very impressed with their participation in both political parties this past year. They are the future, and I feel hopeful about our country’s future because of this group of young women.
H A L L M A R K S M AG A Z I N E
Overall, we have positioned Lauralton to thrive in this 21st century. The teaching/learning environment will adapt to changing technologies and the growth of blended learning, a mix of online and teacher-led instruction. Our students will be in charge of their own education. Classes in the traditional sense will most likely not exist. Teachers will be spending more time connecting with students as individuals. The senior year will have more options, including internships and career exploration. And there will be more than one Innovation Lab on campus! Campus Ministry will continue to assist the spiritual formation of our students, both individually and in community.
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A T R I B U T E T O T O N I I A DA R O L A
Dr. Toni was clearly the right person at the right time for Lauralton Hall. She honored and enhanced the legacy that Lauralton has fostered for 112 years and has worked tirelessly to provide an environment that prepares future leaders. —Sharon Brennan ’65
2009
September 2011
Transitioned from seven-period schedule to “extended period” 90-minute classes, eliminating the traditional bell
Sr. Deirdre Mullen, RSM, Director of Mercy Global Concern at the United Nations, named Lauralton’s first Scholar in Residence
September 2011
First international student from People’s Republic of China matriculates at Lauralton; by 2016 there are 24 international students
September 2011
Lauralton campus named to the State and National Register of Historic Places
November 2010
Emily Dickinson Scholar Jonnie Guera, Ph.D., of Cabrini College named Lauralton’s second Scholar in Residence
December 2010
NFL coach and commentator Tony Dungy visits Lauralton and presents a one-on-one with Dan Patrick, host of The Dan Patrick Show
October 2011
Created Global Learning Opportunities for Women (GLOW), a clearinghouse for local, national and international learning experiences for students
October 2011
Introduced President’s Initiative for Emerging Technologies, providing competitive grants to faculty to explore new ways to employ technologies in the classroom
January 2012
Initiated Student Ambassador Program in which select students serve as visible representatives of Lauralton, giving tours and publishing The Insider
February 2012
Official opening of the new Center for Guidance and College Planning and the Internet Café, funded by the Flavia P. Finucane Charitable Trust
February 2012
Darryl Mace, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of History and Political Science at Cabrini College, named fourth Scholar in Residence
September 2009
Dr. Toni opens the Mansion to all students
January 2010
Barns Grant awarded by the Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation
June 2010
Summer@Lauralton camp for children enrolls first campers
October 2010
A hallmark of Toni’s life has been the betterment of education. She has been a pure gift to Lauralton. Thank you, Toni, for all you have done, and blessings on the well-earned years ahead.
L AUR ALTON H A LL
—Peggy Rooney, RSM, ’51, Trustee Emerita
March 2011
World-renowned poet, activist and educator Giovanni, University Distinguished Professor at Virginia Tech, named Lauralton’s third Scholar in Residence
March 2012
Phase I of the new Center for Visual and Performing Arts launched with a grant from the CT State Dept. of Economic and Community Development to restore the slate roof
June 2011
Architects and engineers from Boston firm Einhorn Yaffee and Prescot review campus facilities and present a long-term Comprehensive Campus Master Plan to guide growth
April 2012
Partnered with Online School for Girls, expanding Lauralton’s curriculum beyond the traditional classroom
July 2011
Lauralton’s award-winning interactive viewbook launched on the App Store, optimizing new technologies to reach and engage prospective students and families
May 2012
Held first bi-annual Athletic Hall of Fame, recognizing alumnae and friends for their exceptional athletic endeavors and contributions to Lauralton’s athletic program
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THAN K YOU, DR.TONI IADAROLA, F O R YOUR INSPIRIN G LEAD ERSH IP
H A L L M A R K S M AG A Z I N E S P R I N G 2017
Antoinette Iadarola, Ph.D. Lauralton Hall President and Head of School 2009–17
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A T R I B U T E T O T O N I I A DA R O L A
April 2013
First Game Changers Day welcomes a cadre of women who broke the glass ceiling in their professions; keynote delivered by Teresa Younger, Connecticut General Assembly’s Permanent Commission on the Status of Women
July 2013
The Edward E. Ford Foundation awards Lauralton a competitive challenge grant of $50,000 to complete Phase I of the carriage barn restoration
August 2013
Freshman class numbering 133 enrolls, making Class of 2017 the largest in Lauralton’s history
September 2013
Increased financial aid by $200,000
L AUR ALTON H A LL
Dr. Toni’s focus on improving the Lauralton Hall experience for current and future generations was evident every day. She is a natural fighter and leader; her personal journey over the last several years exhibited courage and strength that were perhaps her greatest lesson for Lauralton students. —Daniel McCarthy, P ’10, ’12, ’17
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November 2013
With a grant from the Connecticut Department of Education, began a two-year safety improvement initiative including emergency “blue phones” and classroom alert buttons
May 2014
Lauralton becomes a member of the Green Schools Alliance
September 2014
Second bi-annual MPA Golf Tournament held at Great River Golf Club, raising $37,117 for student scholarships
November 2014
Phase II of the carriage barn restoration completed, including all exterior work
March 2015
Lauralton becomes Platinum CRS Global High School Partner with Catholic Relief Services, one of only 12 Catholic high schools nationally
April 2015
Connecticut State Senator Gayle Slossberg presents keynote at the second Lauralton Game Changers Day
April 2015
Lauralton is beneficiary of planned gift of $600,000—the largest in the school’s history—from the estate of Mildred Mooney Davey ’50
May 2015
Public kickoff celebration of the Because We Believe campaign—announcing the campaign’s $6 million goal with $4.5 million already raised
Toni always looks for more, expects more, and encourages others to do the same! —Theresa Napolitano, Science Teacher, P ’11, ’13
The innovation and progress that Dr. Toni has brought to Lauralton Hall during her tenure have been amazing. It has been a joy for me to see the direct results of her energy on the growth of the Lauralton community. In particular, Dr. Toni’s commitment to global awareness has had a remarkable impact on our student learning and service opportunities beyond the classroom. —Courtney Dwyer, History Department Chair
It has been our honor and privilege to work with Dr. Toni during her tenure at Lauralton Hall, and we are so thankful for her visionary leadership and commitment to the Mercy values. Her legacy will be seen for years to come through the successes of the many graduates she has so beautifully inspired. —Anthony Guzzi and Trustee Michelle Guzzi, P ’14
Toni is a true educator, a gifted administrator and a committed standard-bearer of Mercy values. The most beautiful part of Toni’s legacy is the great love she has given to so many Lauralton students and how they have loved her back. —Shaileen Sullivan Kopec ’64, Trustee
Dr. Toni’s leadership and optimism inspired the Board of Trustees to embark on a long-term master plan and a comprehensive capital campaign that have been transformative to Lauralton Hall. Without her enthusiasm, guidance and commitment, the Trustees and entire Lauralton community would not have known what was really possible. —Michael Dean Amato, P ’11, Vice Chair, Board of Trustees
August 2015
Phase III initial interior structural supports completed on the carriage barn restoration
September 2015
Jean Santopatre appointed Lauralton’s first full-time campus minister and chaplain
September 2015
Lauralton’s Internship Program formalized under the direction of Internship Coordinator Jill Waldron, math faculty
October 2015
Parent Ambassador Program created to reach out to prospective and new families
May 2016
Ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new turf field and practice track
June 2016
Annual Giving through the Lauralton Fund reaches milestone of $435,000 in FY15-16, the most raised in annual gifts in a single year
June 2016
Summer@Lauralton camp hosts more than 500 campers
July 2016
Endowment grows more than 200% since 2009 to $2.9 million
July 2016
Dr. Toni appears on WTNH News 8 for a segment about strategies for helping reduce student stress
September 2016
Lauralton dedicates Merwin Water Tower, in honor of Alyce Merwin ’43, as a centerpiece of the projected outdoor classroom
October 2016
Dr. Toni and Tara Boyd ’16 appear on Fox 61 Good Day program for a segment about planning a successful gap year
December 2016
Phase IV of the carriage barn restoration begins, installing mechanicals, electrical and HVAC
January 2017
Because We Believe campaign passes its $6 million goal, making it the largest campaign in Lauralton’s history
January 2017
Construction completed on the Flavia P. Finucane Innovation Lab in Mercy Hall
2017
February 2017
Dr. Darryl Mace returns to Lauralton during Black History Month as part of Lauralton’s Scholar in Residence program
S P R I N G 2017
—Christiana Cottrell ’17
H A L L M A R K S M AG A Z I N E
Dr. Toni’s smile is contagious, and I love running into her in the hallways and hearing her empowering words at assemblies. She is an excellent example of a strong, kind and compassionate leader.
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C A M PA I G N E X T E N D E D TO CO MPLE TE C A R R I AG E BA R N R E STO R AT I ON
Transforming the Carriage Barn 2008 Petition to Save The Lauralton Barn—signed by more than 200 alumnae and friends 2009 Grant to secure the perimeter of the barn 2010 Funding received to create bid-ready engineering specs to begin restoration 2011 Lauralton campus listed on the National and State Registers of Historic Places 2012 Quiet phase of Because We Believe campaign begins 2012 State grant and private match to replace the slate roof 2013 Phase I: Slate roof replaced 2014 Phase II: Exterior brick, gutters, windows and doors restored and replaced 2014 Class of 2014 presents their Class Gift of a new barn cupola and weathervane 2015 Campaign begins public phase 2015 Phase III: Interior construction secures the walls and floors; elevator shaft created 2016 Phase IV begins Winter 2016-17 to install mechanicals 2017 Phase V scheduled to begin Spring 2017 to complete interior build-out
L AUR ALTON H A LL
2018 Anticipated completion in Spring 2018
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The Because We Believe campaign has been extended to June 30 to raise funding to complete work on the carriage barn, transforming it into the new Center for the Visual and Performing Arts. The campaign has exceeded its original target goal of $6 million, an unprecedented milestone in the history of the school, the largest amount ever raised in the shortest period of time. While much has been accomplished in this campaign, the work on the carriage barn continues. Phase IV (installation of HVAC, mechanicals, electrical and plumbing) is funded and underway, and support for the final Phase V of the interior build-out will bring the campaign to a close. If you would like more information about how you can be part of this successful initiative, contact Director of Institutional Advancement Lisa Hottin at lhottin@lauraltonhall.org or 203-877-2786 x129.
“Lauralton’s new Center for the Visual and Performing Arts is near and dear to my heart. It will provide our students with the environment to stretch their creativity. It will be the ‘jewel in the crown’ of our historic campus.” —President Toni Iadarola
SPARKLES GA LA AND AU CT I ON R A I S E S TH E PADDL E FOR T HE BAR N
No fooling! April 1 netted more than $20,000 for the new Center for the Visual and Performing Arts at Lauralton Hall. The inaugural event was sponsored by the McAuley Parents Association and brought together alumnae, parents and friends for a glittering evening of fun and fundraising benefiting Lauralton students today and for future generations. Thank you to all who participated!
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1: Alumnae pose for a photo
5: Auctioneer David Smith
2: Sheila Sargent ’59, Colleen Murphy, Tricia Donovan
6: Sr. Irene Holowesko
4: Sr. Lilyan Fraher ’55, Sr. Joan Flynn ’51, Sr. Cheryl Driscoll, Sr. Eileen Boffa ’62
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S P R I N G 2017
3: Patrick and Sally McNeela, Stacy (Gala CoChair) and Paul Fama, Stephanie LaPointe (Gala Co-Chair)
7: Brian and Ellen Arsenault and Brett and Karol Matkins
H A L L M A R K S M AG A Z I N E
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For the st 21 Century T H R O U G H D R. TO N I’ S V I S I O N A N D L E A D E R S H I P, L AU R A LTO N H A L L H A S F O R G E D A H E A D I N B U I L D I N G A 21 ST C E N T U RY C A M P U S P O S I T I O N E D TO E D U C AT E A N D I N S P I R E. I N T H E F O L LO W I N G PAG E S W E L O O K AT O U R C A M P U S , O U R T E AC H I N G A N D O U R L E A R N I N G A N D H O W E AC H CO N T R I B U T E S TO P R E PA R I N G N E W G E N E R AT I O N S O F L A U R A LTO N W O M E N.
A 21 ST CEN TU RY CAMPUS With the help of the entire Lauralton Hall community—generous alumnae, parents and other supporters, dedicated faculty, motivated students—Lauralton constantly adapts to better prepare young women to forge careers and lives of achievement, service and compassion. These past few years saw many exciting advances throughout campus made possible by the Because We Believe campaign. “The Sisters of Mercy and Catherine McAuley have been very clear that we must respond to the needs of the time,” says Lauralton Hall president Dr. Toni Iadarola. “Adapting and responding to change in our world today, locally and globally, is part of our founders’ core values, and very much in their DNA.” Lauralton faculty continue to make innovative, forward-thinking changes in teaching based on what we now know about learning—with new facilities, technology and programs to support their efforts.
Innovation Lab
S P R I N G 2017
Gone are the days of lecturing to silent rows of students. To allow space and flexibility for students to collaborate on projects, break into discussion groups and use digital technologies, four renovated classrooms were opened last fall, adding to the four classrooms in Mercy Hall remodeled in 2014 and 2015. Each includes new desks and chairs that are easier to move into different group configurations, and that have larger desk surfaces to accommodate both laptops and textbooks. Class sizes have also been reduced to allow freer movement for increased interactive activities.
H A L L M A R K S M AG A Z I N E
To prepare tomorrow’s inventors, engineers and problemsolvers, our new Innovation Lab opened this winter. It is equipped so students and faculty can work on projects involving wearable technologies, 3D printing, 3D laser cutting, robotics and more. Students are also being trained to become certified innovation ambassadors, able to operate and troubleshoot the technologies. They will assist teachers with class projects in the lab as well as create and lead workshops of their own.
Classrooms for Collaboration
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F O R T H E 2 1 S T C E N T U RY
A Living Lesson in History and Sustainability
Revitalizing and renewing the old to prepare for the new has been an essential part of recent campus plans. Our vision is to create an outdoor classroom using Lauralton’s historic 1864 water tower, which will become the focus of a model STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) curriculum.
The tower complements the transformation of Lauralton’s iconic carriage barn into the Center for the Visual and Performing Arts. Phase IV was recently begun and includes mechanical and electrical work; Phase V, the final interior build-out, will complete the project (see p. 8).
“Lauralton’s carriage barn is unique and the only one of its kind in Connecticut,” explains Dr. Iadarola. “And the water tower is among a select few in North America.”
L AUR ALTON H A LL
The Merwin Water Tower was named last fall for Alyce Merwin ’43, an alumna who earned her bachelor’s degree in chemistry and went on to supervise the laboratory at Milford Hospital at a time when it was unusual to see women in the sciences. Her gift has jumpstarted the restoration of the tower to its original use of supplying water to campus buildings. Exterior renovations were completed last year.
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Notes Dr. Iadarola, “Faculty and staff are developing a plan to use the tower for teaching and modeling sustainability. STEAM projects will explore architecture; the physics of providing energy resources, water collection and irrigation; and environmental benefits.”
Extending the green space around the carriage barn will complete the plans for a full outdoor classroom. With continued donor support, the goal is to complete all projects by the spring of 2018.
H A L L M A R K S M AG A Z I N E
“When all is ready, we will have created a 21 st century campus that joins academics, the arts, athletics and environmental stewardship,� says Dr. Iadarola.
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F O R T H E 2 1 S T C E N T U RY
21 ST CEN TURY T EACHI NG
Our students and their goals and dreams are as individual as the works of mercy. And innovative teaching that challenges and inspires the best in each one is at the forefront of our mission and vision at Lauralton Hall.
L AUR ALTON H A LL
Along with changes to the physical environment and new technological resources, the Because We Believe campaign has enabled us to invest significantly in faculty professional development. Teachers spend summers and breaks gaining new information and ideas to implement in their classes and share with their colleagues. From studying research on the adolescent brain to exploring techniques in problembased and mastery learning, Lauralton faculty bring a dynamic approach highly focused on optimal student learning and engagement.
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“Without professional development, we would simply keep teaching the way we learned, which is by memorizing. And that is meaningless today,” says Principal Cynthia Gallant. “The paradigm has shifted because the amount of information out there has more than doubled. Students don’t need to remember as much because they can simply look something up. But they do need to understand why the information is important and how you can use it.”
The excitement in the classroom energizes everyone. Notes Cynthia, “I have learned so much from what our faculty have brought back from their seminars and conferences.” Another aspect of empowering students to achieve their highest potential is providing more opportunity for teachers to get to know students outside of class, and for all to work together as a community. Last fall, Lauralton replaced the traditional homeroom model with advisory groups. Small groups of 12 to 13 students meet with their advisory faculty member once a week, following an informal curriculum and creating a forum to ensure all students are able to make the most of their Lauralton experience. Also last fall, in response to students’ desire for more community spirit, Lauralton created “houses” that engage in friendly competition throughout the year. Each of four houses is a community of approximately 100 students, staff and faculty across all grades. Look for news on what each house has accomplished in upcoming issues.
A H O M E F O R I N N OVAT I O N The range of topics faculty explored last summer alone hints at the range of ideas that enrich teaching at Lauralton.
Summer 2016 Faculty Professional Development
Q: April, as a science teacher and the point person on the Innovation Lab, what is most exciting to you about this new space? A: I am hopeful that the programs offered through the lab will encourage students to explore their diverse interests, tackle authentic “real-world” issues and engage in the design process—all without the fear of failure that so often pervades our educational system. What’s most exciting to me is watching students achieve that “aha moment” as they wrestle with a problem that is meaningful to them. Also, the lab will be partnered with a TV/radio studio, with the end goal of having a student-directed weekly broadcast up and running next year. Q: What are some of the best examples of how Lauralton is using technology well in teaching and learning? A: Where to start? I see so many excellent examples of technology use across all departments that it is hard to pick just a few. In world languages, teachers are having students take photos related to unit vocabulary and integrate the images and vocabulary words into a shared picture-dictionary. In history, students create interactive notebooks and timelines to highlight key historical events and concepts. In business, students use finance simulations to understand budgeting constraints. In science, students use virtual labs, GIS technology and probe-ware to better understand how the world around them works. In all cases, technology at Lauralton is used to further the student experience and make learning more personally meaningful. Q: Can you describe some of the patterns taking place at Lauralton to make use of new technology?
S P R I N G 2017
A: All faculty are actively involved in promoting effective and engaging use of emerging technologies by attending conferences, workshops and seminars. Not only do faculty attend these types of professional development, but they critically examine the tools and pedagogies presented in order to bring back the best to Lauralton. Faculty share what they have learned during in-house meetings and teaching sessions. In addition, I write a weekly blog sharing an “app of the week” and host once-a-quarter mini-workshops on technology integration. Overall, the patterns seen at Lauralton reflect an eagerness to embrace new technologies that enhance the teacher-student relationship and improve learning situations for the students.
H A L L M A R K S M AG A Z I N E
• Annual International Society of Technology in Education Convention & Expo; Denver, CO • AP Calculus, AP Computer Science and “Archives for Our School” Workshops; Taft Educational Center, Workshops for Teachers, Taft School, Middlebury, CT • Building Learning Communities Education Conference; Boston, MA • Catalyst Learning Workshop, Catalyst Learning Curricula; Ashford, NC • Connecticut Core Mathematics Future and Current Users Conference; Central CT State University, New Britain, CT • Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History Teacher Seminar; Stanford University, CA • Gregorian Chant Retreat; Community of Jesus Benedictine Monastery, Rock Harbor, MA • “Incorporating Design Thinking into Problem Solving,” CT Association of Independent Schools Conference; Loomis Chaffe School, Windsor, CT • “Maker Movement: A Constructionist Approach to Inspiring Innovation and STEAM Learning”; Pine Crest Innovation Institute, Fort Lauderdale, FL • Workshop for Visiting Teams, New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Commission on Independent Schools; Farmington, CT • New England Association for College Admission Counseling Conference; New Orleans, LA • Notre Dame Vision Conference; University of Notre Dame, South Bend, IN • “An Organizational Skills Bootcamp”; American School Counselor Association online workshop • “Responding to a Crisis in Your Community,” Grief Education Resources; Mt. Ida College, Boston, MA • Summer STEAM Workshop for Teachers; Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art, Hartford, CT • “Teaching Excellence II, Developing Your Faculty Culture,” Institute for School Management Conference; Wilmington, DE
Innovation goes on all over campus but, with the opening this winter of the new Flavia P. Finucane Innovation Lab, Lauralton has a fully dedicated, fully equipped space for it. We interviewed Science Teacher and Academic Technology Coordinator April Kelley recently about the new lab and technology use at Lauralton.
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F O R T H E 2 1 S T C E N T U RY
Beyond Memorization: So what will you see in Lauralton classrooms today?
Courtney Dwyer’s AP U.S. History Class To learn about American immigration, Courtney’s students went right to the source: they searched the Ellis Island online database for information on immigrants they had read about, as well as their own ancestors. Courtney explains, “I have changed from lecture-based lessons to student-centered lessons. Education is making an exciting shift to focus on the skills students need across all different subjects. We need to prepare students for careers that do not exist yet. Not only are my students learning the content, they are now learning to think like historians—to sift through and synthesize primary and secondary sources.”
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What H av
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Courtney’s students often write historical “tweets” (140-character summaries based on Twitter messaging limits) as one way to internalize concepts they’re learning. “We want to make students understand they are affected by these topics—they are not just facts and dates that they need to memorize and can forget after the test.”
Erin Pinsince’s Anatomy and Physiology Class This spring Erin’s students undertook college-level research by exploring nutrition in lab rats. They researched the effects of a diet high in saturated fat and trans-fats on weight gain, cognitive ability and other performance-based criteria in order to investigate possible connections between a “junk food” supplement and slower cognitive responses. Erin attended the UCONN Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee classroom training session so her students could abide by the same federal guidelines required in university research. She taught them how to design a valid experiment, conduct it ethically using live vertebrates, and collect valid data upon which to base statistically significant conclusions. Students designed every aspect of the experiment. Erin says, “The learning taking place just in the training process alone was amazing to watch. However, the most exciting aspect to me is that live vertebrate animal studies are rarely conducted at the secondary school level.”
e Learned? W e
2 Hours is the optimal amount of time high school students should spend on homework each night.
[Image of John’s classroom]
Jen Shea’s Honors Chemistry Class You might find Jen’s students in the chemistry lab designing, synthesizing and producing a new makeup or perfume—or in the Innovation Lab writing, filming and editing a public service video on the Zika virus. Whatever the topic, her students don’t want to miss a single class because she gives them real problems to solve.
Sue Cavar’s Honors Biology Class One student is reviewing protein structure, while another small group models enzyme function. You will rarely see Sue’s entire class doing the same thing because each girl works until she has mastered a topic. In fact, Lauralton’s entire science department has integrated aspects of mastery learning into all of their courses.
“Problem-based learning challenges students to move out of their comfort zone,” notes Jen. “They have to be active and direct the process; it really prepares them to be 21st century workers.”
“Mastery learning brings traditional graduate school techniques to high school,” explains Sue. “The class is modeled more as a mentor/student relationship. I speak with every student every class period, so I have a good handle on what they are struggling with and can help them work through it immediately. As in grad school, I also try to incorporate more real-world problems so the students can understand how the concepts actually affect them.”
As one of Lauralton’s leaders in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) programming, Jen has been inspired to employ problem-based and virtual learning techniques by attending conferences such as the International Society for Technology in Education.
What H av
“It’s about the thought process. You can look up the composition of an element, but to try to synthesize a compound with it—you can’t just Google that!” e Learned? W e
Traditional Lecturing does not correlate with content retention and student engagement.
“The Crucible,” while speakers at Lauralton, including Lauralton’s own technology specialist April Kelley, have made him more aware of how to use technology efficiently and effectively during class time. Even the winter weather doesn’t stop his students from working together. “If we have a snow day, I’ll start a chat room to help me replicate online what we may have done in class,” notes John.
S P R I N G 2017
Like many Lauralton faculty, John uses several sources for teaching ideas. Attending a seminar led by an Arthur Miller scholar inspired the activities he developed for studying
Says Sue, “I continually get feedback, advice and edits for my work—and chances to fix it—so why don’t students? If a student doesn’t do well on a test, we go over her mistakes together to make sure she understands what she was confused about. A week later, she takes an equivalent test to prove she understands all of the concepts. Students are here to learn—and learning from our mistakes is the most important lesson of all.”
H A L L M A R K S M AG A Z I N E
John Blahnik’s American Literature Class Whether it’s acting out the same dialogue in different scenarios to understand how performance conveys meaning, or using a blogging platform to review each other’s thesis statements, students in John’s class are active collaborators.
Principal Cynthia Gallant notes, “Students don’t just spit something back, but stay with it until they learn it. The process requires a great deal from faculty.”
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F O R T H E 2 1 S T C E N T U RY
21 ST CENTURY LE AR NI NG
One of the most effective ways to learn is by doing—and Lauralton students go above and beyond in what they do. A College-Level Internship with Spine Wave
Last summer, Allison Haynes ’17 interned in the R&D Engineering Group at Spine Wave, Inc., a developer of medical devices for the treatment of spinal disorders. Gaining an internship position normally reserved for college students, Allison was able to train on Solidworks, a widely used 3D engineering design program. “The Spine Wave internship gave me more insight into medical devices and prosthetics. I like the idea of doing something that could impact somebody’s life in so many good ways.” Allison plans to major in mechanical engineering with a minor in biology.
Scientist or Doctor?
Namandje Wali ’17 interned for five weeks last summer at the Stanley Division of Developmental Neurovirology at the Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland. She and five other interns conducted lab-based research to study the link between a specific virus and psychiatric disorders. They also facilitated floor meetings, shadowed psychiatrists during teaching rounds with newly admitted patients, and concluded their internships by presenting their research projects to a crowd of 600 at a symposium. She says the experience helped her understand different career paths within the medical field and determine that would like to become a physician assistant.
“What Community Volunteering Means to Me” That is the name of Kate Canavan’s ’17 award-winning essay on public service. Last fall, Kate earned first prize in a statewide essay contest sponsored by Volunteer Square in partnership with Hearst Connecticut Media. Rather than soup kitchens or summer camps, Kate has volunteered on political campaigns for several years. In her essay, she explains, “I was 15 when I walked into my first campaign meeting. My age turned out to work in our favor—I eagerly pitched the importance of a strong social media presence to the other volunteers and later spearheaded this effort.”
Pursuing an Interest in Engineering
Natasha Saavedra ’18 took part in the 2016 Resident Scholar Program at the Duracell North American Headquarters and Global Innovation Center. Says Natasha, “Ms. Melmed, my chemistry teacher, recommended this program. I was one of sixteen students selected from all over Connecticut.” Natasha met engineers, learned step-by-step how a battery is made, toured all of Duracell’s labs and worked with advertising staff. This summer, Natasha will participate in the Introduction to Engineering Program at the University of Notre Dame in Indiana.
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Research at Yale
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Last summer, Marissa Pocevic ’17 participated in the Yale School of Medicine’s Discovery to Cure high school internship program. During eight weeks in the lab, Marissa worked full time in research on a possible treatment for ovarian cancer. Says Marissa, “I’m beyond thankful for the pioneer of this program, Dr. Gil Mor, who let me truly be a member of his lab for eight weeks. Also, I could not have gotten into this program if it weren’t for my science teacher, Ms. Pinsince, who has always believed in me and encouraged me.”
PICTURED LEFT TO RIGHT: Marissa Pocevic ’17 Natasha Saavedra ’18 Allison Haynes ’17 Namandje Wali ’17 Kate Canavan ’17
When a plane mechanism breaks, you might expect engineers to go into MacGyver mode, dreaming up unconventional ways to fix it just as the TV action hero would. But you might not expect these engineers to be high school students. In its 2016-17 Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Challenge for High School Students, Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation has challenged selected teams of Connecticut high school students to improve the function of a wing flap in its Corsair plane. Lauralton is the first independent school, and the first all-girls school, chosen to compete in the statewide competition. “To fix the mechanism, the girls have to research everything about it and develop several designs to fine-tune one that will really work while being subjected to conditions in flight,” says science teacher Theresa Napolitano, who, along with math teacher Danielle Kratter, supervises Lauralton’s Engineering Club. “They’re replacing the manual movement with a computer-controlled servo arm.” Sikorsky engineer Ashley Carrigan ’10 is the mentor for Lauralton’s 27-member team that is competing in the ninemonth STEM Challenge competition. The team is led by senior Maddie Monahan and meets before or after school three days a week to work on the project.
“One of the most exciting parts was taking the girls to the kickoff at Chester Airfield, where they got into the hangar and talked with the engineers,” says Theresa. “You could see it dawn on them that they were actually working on something real.” Teams submit videos of their work as they meet objectives throughout the year. In their final presentation, Lauralton’s team will use an Arduino microcontroller to demonstrate the linkage control mechanism they will design and produce using Lauralton’s 3D printer. The Lauralton team is part of the school’s Engineering Club, which has grown to more than 60 students since it originated in 2012. Other club members are working in robotics, with the goal to head to a robotics competition in the near future. As for the STEM Challenge, the top few teams are invited to the Innovation Center in Hartford in late spring to present their solutions in person to a panel of Sikorsky engineers. Stay tuned for the results!
What H av
Real-Life MacGyvers
e Learned? W e
Mastery Learning improves students’ retention of ideas and analytical skills.
Editor’s Note: At press time, Lauralton is among the top three teams to compete in the final Sikorsky STEM Challenge event to be held May 20.
S P R I N G 2017
—Maddie Monahan ’17, Lauralton’s Sikorsky STEM Challenge team leader and the president and cofounder of Lauralton’s Engineering Club. She has committed to Lehigh University on a DI field hockey scholarship.
H A L L M A R K S M AG A Z I N E
“Working with Sikorsky employees as mentors, reading and analyzing now declassified documents, listening in on presentations, and learning how in depth the engineering process is have allowed the entire team to get a look at what this industry is actually like. And Ms. Napolitano and Ms. Kratter have dedicated so much time to our team—they truly want us to expand our horizons. I now have the courage to go for an engineering degree.”
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I N TH E N E WS
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Dr. Mace Challenges Students to Consider the Power of the Press
Dr. Darryl Mace, chair of history and political science at Cabrini University, spoke to students on February 13 at a school-wide assembly in observance of Black History Month. Dr. Mace, who earned his PhD in history from Temple University, is the author of In Remembrance of Emmett Till: Regional Stories and Media Responses to the Black Freedom Struggle. In his talk, Dr. Mace challenged students to consider the impact of the media on the shaping of their own opinions and beliefs. As a framework for the discussion, he offered perspective on how the definition of news has changed since America’s founding to today’s celebrity-obsessed news culture. Dr. Mace concluded with a look at the viral nature of fake news today. Asked by a student for his thoughts on what can be done about the spread of fake news, he responded, “Don’t click. Consider your news sources and be intentional about what you select as news. The more we click—which is what allows these outlets to thrive—the more fake news perpetuates.” But Dr. Mace acknowledged that “just don’t click” is easier said than done. “We can all fall prey to it,” he added.
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Students Showcase their Musical and Acting Talents
Lauralton’s annual student performances continue to wow audiences. This year’s shows have included the Broadway smash hit, Shrek, The Musical; the studentdirected comedic play, The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged); and the long-running tradition, Christmas In Song, featuring Lauralton’s entire choral and instrumental music students.
3
Lauralton Dedicates Alyce Merwin Tower
On September 23, President Antoinette (Toni) Iadarola, Ph.D., announced the naming of the campus’ water tower in honor of alumna and scientist Alyce Merwin ’43. Dr. Iadarola also unveiled Merwin Tower’s new use as an outdoor classroom and model for Lauralton’s STEAM curriculum. Merwin, who said she was inspired at Lauralton to pursue science, went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in chemistry and pursue a career in medical laboratory technology specializing in histology. “We are so grateful to Alyce for funding the transformation of the tower into an outdoor classroom,” said Dr. Iadarola. “Her generous gift will help propel our STEAM curriculum, which is sure to inspire many more Lauralton students to pursue the sciences,” she added. Built in 1864, the tower used to pump water to Lauralton Hall’s mansion and carriage house. Historians from the Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation have reported that the water tower is the only one of its kind, in terms of both architecture and engineering, in North America. Merwin Tower is a true marvel, as is its namesake.
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@lauraltoncrusaders H A L L M A R K S M AG A Z I N E S P R I N G 2017
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The Lauralton Cheerleading Team placed 1st in their division this past weekend at the New England Cheerleaders Association, Inc. (NECA) at East Haven High School. Good luck at States this weekend, girls! #lhproud
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IN THE NEWS
4 Lauralton Hall | March 6 at 10:26 am
Juniors in Ms. Miller’s U.S. History class took on the personas of early 20th century influencers, from Amelia Earhart to Babe Ruth. An impressed Ms. Miller said the students had a blast in the past and learned a lot about their characters’ impact on society and the time period in our nation’s history. #lhproud
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@Lauraltonhall | January 30 at 5:14 pm
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Last week we participated in the #greatkindnesschallenge! Students wrote a kind note to someone special at our #kindnessstation! #lhproud
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LH Launches New Website
Lauralton Hall rang in 2017 with a new website! We encourage you to visit www.lauraltonhall.org and take a look around. We think that you’ll like the change. It reflects what it’s like to be a student at Lauralton: the excitement, the energy and the Mercy spirit. The new site is getting noticed! Lauralton, along with website provider Finalsite, has received the 2017 IAC Outstanding Website Award from The Web Marketing Association (WMA).
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Lauralton Recognized with CIAC Michaels Achievement Cup for Exemplary Athletics Programs
S P R I N G 2017
The Connecticut Association of Schools – CIAC Executive Director Karissa Niehoff noted, “These schools have made an impressive commitment to supporting a well-rounded, education-based athletics program and consistently demonstrate the value those programs have to students and the entire school community.”
H A L L M A R K S M AG A Z I N E
Lauralton is among 15 high school athletic programs selected as CIAC (Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference) Michaels Achievement Cup exemplary programs, recognizing their outstanding achievement as overall athletics programs for the 2015-16 academic year. The 15 schools, which were selected from among 81 participating schools, are evaluated based on achievement in sportsmanship, participation, athletic scholarship, athletic personnel, equity, chemical-free initiatives and athletic achievement. The CIAC Michaels Achievement Cup Committee reviews statistical data and discusses the merits of each potential award recipient based on written criteria, the submitted information, and CIAC compliance.
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IN THE NEWS
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Four Student Athletes Awarded Division 1 Scholarships
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In a ceremony on November 9 in Claven Auditorium, four Lauralton students formally signed D1 Scholarship offers. The students are:
The National Wildlife Federation (NWF), America’s largest wildlife conservation and education organization, recognized Lauralton’s Monarch Recovery Garden as a Certified Wildlife Habitat® through NWF’s Garden for Wildlife program. Certification makes Lauralton’s habitat part of the Million Pollinator Garden Challenge, a national effort to restore critical habitat for pollinators.
• Christiana Cottrell – “CC” is the daughter of Richard Cottrell and Georgia Cottrell of Redding and will play softball at Colgate University. • Elyse Darcy – Elyse is the daughter of Matthew and Marybeth Darcy of East Norwalk and will play lacrosse at Iona College. • Madelyn Monahan – Maddie is the daughter of Matt and Veronica Monahan of Fairfield and will play field hockey at Lehigh University. • Nicole Zaccaro – Nikki is the daughter of Michael and Joan Zaccaro of Newtown and will play lacrosse at the University of California, Berkeley.
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“We all congratulate these outstanding students on their amazing accomplishments and wish them great success as they continue their sports careers at the collegiate level,” said Ms. Cooper. “Our mission is to provide a comprehensive, diverse, and dynamic athletic program that makes a significant contribution to the overall personal growth and development of each student. Clearly, Maddie, Nikki, CC and Elyse have seized these opportunities. We are all so proud of them.”
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National Wildlife Federation Certifies Lauralton Hall as New Wildlife Habitat
The Environmental Club began pursuing certification from NWF when they learned of the current decline in the Monarch butterfly population. Not only does this garden benefit monarch butterflies; it benefits local pollinators and other species as well. The Environmental Club is committed to maintaining the garden and continuing to educate members of the Lauralton community about local and global environmental issues.
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Volunteer Square Recognizes Student Volunteers
Two Lauralton students in November were named winners in the Volunteer Square 2016 High School Essay Contest. The contest, on the topic of “What Community Volunteering Means to Me,” was sponsored by Volunteer Square in partnership with Hearst Connecticut Media. First place was awarded to senior Kate Canavan. Kate’s essay describes her experience volunteering on political campaigns and the reasons she believes young people should get engaged in the political process. Third place was awarded to sophomore Cristina Ludwig. Cristina’s essay describes the community service project she founded, inspired by her greatgrandmother. Called “Cristina’s Cookies, Cards, and Cocoa,” the service project brings cheer to the elderly.
6 7 Lauralton Hall | February 27 at 7:29 am
#ServingOthers National Honor Society @Lauraltonhall collected nearly 100 packages of diapers ...
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S P R I N G 2017
Moms at Mercy Learning Center in Bridgeport Receive Special Gift, Thanks to Lauralton Students
H A L L M A R K S M AG A Z I N E
“At Lauralton, service is a path we walk each day. This path leads us to commit meaningful amounts of time to helping others during all four years at Lauralton.� #lhproud
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Mary McElroy Nevins ’42 announces the birth of her first great-grandson Jack Liam Nevins. Caitlin Nevins ’13 is his aunt and Roisin McGuirk ’19 is his cousin.
1950’s
Millicent Friedberg Zolan ’43 celebrated her 90th birthday in the Mansion. She is the creator and judge of a Creative Writing Contest open to all students. Last year’s winner was Coleen Ilano ’16. The contest is being repeated again this year. Suzanne Shay Travers ’51 recently quit her job at Smilow/St. Francis Cancer Center laboratory to spend more time with her two grandsons, Michael and James, who live just blocks away from her in West Hartford, CT. Joanne Silva McCarty ’54 is able to spend the winters with her husband, John, on Saba, Dutch Caribbean. She is thrilled that her grandchildren are settling down, graduating from college, and getting jobs. She shared a day in NYC with Teresa Downs Cresci ’54.
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Catherine Koletsky ’58 attends Church at the Paulist Center in downtown Boston, MA. “My favorite thing is going to Colonial Williamsburg, VA. I also continue to attend Old Meeting House Events on local history. I will miss seeing and listening to Dr. Toni Iadarola when the LH staff comes to meet with the alumnae of the area.”
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Millicent Friedberg Zolan ’43
Kateri Bennett Walsh ’63
1960’s
1940’s
CLASS NOTES
Shirley Horvath Anderson ’61 relocated from Georgetown, SC, to Pawleys Island, SC. Eleanor Russo Benefico ’61 donated her 1958, 1959 and 1960 Lauralton yearbooks to the library, along with some original post cards of the campus. Lauralton’s Library is always looking for donations. Kateri Bennett Walsh ’63 gathered with her two cousins, Rory Woods ’19, and Mary Bennett O’Brien ’75, in Springfield, MA to celebrate her son, Lieutenant Colonel Bennett Walsh’s, retirement from the Marine Corp. Barbara Garamella Frankel ’66, says, “It was so special to gather with so many of my classmates to celebrate our 50th reunion at Homecoming 2016. The campus looked amazing. So many wonderful memories came flooding back to us. I look forward to seeing my fellow Golden Girls once again this fall.” Eileen Peschel Smith ’68 and her husband, Tom, have been married for 35 years and live in Montgomery Village, MD. Their three children are married: Bridget and husband, Scott, have identical twin girls in kindergarten; Brendan and wife, Flor, have a girl (3); and Helen and husband, Mike, have a son (7). Eileen has worked in education as a teacher and administrator for almost 45 years. She is not ready to retire just yet.
Amy Lesko Manfredi ’94
Anne-Marie Nolin ’71 has relocated to coastal Belfast, ME with her husband, Robert, since retiring in 2014. They were able to catch up with Isabel DiDomenico King ’71 and her husband, Richard, when they passed through after a vacation in Bar Harbor this past summer. She would love to hear from other classmates. Mary Money ’76 is now the Director of Global Commercialization for PepsiCo in Purchase, NY. Mary and her husband, Matt Leonard, reside in Fairfield, CT. Mary has two adult “children,” Matthew and Liza. Mary participated in this year’s Game Changers Day. As a proud aluma, Elizabeth Simonetti ’77 is grateful for the spiritual foundation she received at Lauralton Hall. After serving as a missionary with the Canossian sisters in Togo, she founded Assi le Assime: The Togo
1980’s
Development Partnership, which works to bring clean water and nutritious food to villagers. She asks the Lauralton community to pray for His guidance as she works in partnership with the Togolese.
1990’s
1970’s
Carol Barbarito Durant ’70 and Sharon Benoit ’70 enjoyed a tour Lauralton Hall. They enjoyed meeting all the friendly people who work hard to preserve the integrity of their Alma Mater, explored new additions that have been made to the school, and were thrilled to know that the philosophy of empowering young women has remained a constant at Lauralton Hall. They both agree that they would not be the women they are today without having been part of the Lauralton Hall experience. “Thank you, and best wishes to you and the Lauralton family!”
Marilyn Jamison Langdon ’80 lives in the Seattle area with her husband, Scott. Their youngest graduated college in May 2016. Marilyn was in Connecticut in September for her sister’s wedding and was able to reconnect with some old friends living in Milford. Donna Castracane Kapsinow ’93 is the Finance Director for the town of Westbrook, CT. Amy Lesko Manfredi ’94 and Joseph Manfredi were married in the Lauralton Hall Chapel on August 13, 2016. Carla Framularo Becerra ’96 and her husband, Dave, recently relocated to Barcelona, Spain. Carla will be leading Healing and Detox Retreats and acting as Resident Masseuse and Reiki Master. Her Spanish language skills from Lauralton will certainly come in handy as she continues to work toward fluency in her husband’s native tongue. Jenn Muller McMullen ’96 helped to celebrate at the “Going Away Party!” Kristen Lisk Mathews ’99 and her husband, Ryan, welcomed their daughter, Lily Charlotte, on June 9, 2016. Lily joins big sisters Grace and Ava. All are doing well.
H A L L M A R K S M AG A Z I N E S P R I N G 2017
Carla Framularo Becerra ’96
Ashley Rader Coxe ’00
Chelsea Davidson Duarte ’01 27
2000’s
CLASS NOTES
Ashley Rader Coxe ’00 and her husband, Matson Coxe, welcomed their first daughter, Emerson Anne Coxe, on January 4, 2016.
Tiffany Auerbach Cavanagh ’06 married Steven Cavanagh on July 9, 2016, in the Lauralton Hall Chapel. Lauren Corsano Averna ’06 was the Matron of Honor.
Lisa Baglini ’00, assistant coach to the Lauralton Cheerleaders, is engaged to John Gurr. An October 8, 2017, wedding is planned.
Alisha DeBenedetto LaDore ’06 and her husband, Thomas LaDore, welcomed their daughter, Sadie James LaDore, into the world on August 23, 2016.
Chelsea Davidson Duarte ’01 and her husband, Guy Duarte, announce the birth of their third daughter, Brynn Hall Duarte, born on November 1, 2015. Claire (9) and Evelyn (3) are thrilled to have another sister!
Nina Demeter ’07 is engaged as of last October to fiancé Greg Tsialas. They are very excited to be settling into their new home in East Haven, CT, with their adorable puppy, Scrappy.
Jennifer Schlechtweg Phostole ’01 married Seth Phostole on June 24, 2016. Her sister, Sarah Schlechtweg ’99, was her Maid of Honor. Katie Cunningham Healy ’01, Kari Nestor ’00, and Amy Kelly Roberts ’01 were her bridesmaids. Jenn is an assistant principal at Ridgefield High School in Ridgefield, CT.
Casey Farricielli ’07 opened Couture Fitness in December 2012. She recently partnered with Kristen Adanti Pedersen ’89 to open the newest location at Walnut Beach. Several alumnae work out at Couture Fitness. “I truly care about each member and I want them to be the best version of themselves,” says Casey, “I believe this is how the faculty and staff felt about me when I was at Lauralton Hall and I wanted to continue caring for others in the same way.”
Ashley Mossa Lindeman ’03, and her husband welcomed their son Aksel Owen Lindeman to the world on November 1, 2016.
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Shannon Phillips ’05 announces her engagement to Ian Kukulka of Ridgefield, CT. A ceremony in the Lauralton Hall Chapel is planned for September 2017. Shannon is a Nurse Practitioner at Yale New Haven.
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Jennifer Schlechtweg Phostole ’01
Tiffany Auerbach Cavanaugh ’06
Thelma Santiago Cote ’08 and Nicholas Cote were marred in Miami, FL, in January 2017. Thelma graduated from The Ohio State University in May 2016 with her Masters in Higher Education and Student Affairs and now works at New College of Florida as their Health Education Coordinator.
Alisha DeBenedetto LaDore ’06
Carly Lind ’08 attended Berklee College of Music for voice and is pursuing a writing career in pop music in Los Angeles, CA. Referring to her time at Lauralton Hall, she says, “I don’t think we all understand when we are there how special that place is.” She is looking forward to a mission trip to Uganda where she will be teaching donation-based yoga classes, the proceeds of which will go to the Reach Up Reach Out organization.
current research focuses on the impacts of the tourism industry on host communities in developed nations that are engaged in media-tourism.”
Alexandra Coppolo ’08 graduated from the University of Connecticut in 2012 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. She then obtained her real estate license and made a voice-based dating app called SpeakToMe. SpeakToMe aired on the Discovery Channel as part of NewsWatch TV’s “App Watch” segment on October 7th, 2016. “I fondly remember my days at Lauralton Hall and will cherish those memories for a lifetime,” she says.
Marianne Boyd Whorton ’09 and her husband Tyler Whorton welcomed a baby girl, Grace Marianne Whorton, on February 17, 2017.
Anne LoPiccolo D’Ambrisi ’08 married Stephen D’Ambrisi on October 15, 2016, in the Lauralton Hall Chapel. Kelly D’Ambrisi ’08, Mary Kate LoPiccolo ’09, Margaret Morrissey ’09, Mary O’Connell ’08, and Jenna Salandra ’08 were bridesmaids. Liselle Milazzo ’08, says “After I sailed around the world with Semester at Sea, taught English in Korea and completed my Master’s degree in the Anthropology of Travel, Tourism and Pilgrimage, I was accepted into a PhD program at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign! My
Jenny Fitzmaurice Nicolosi ’09 married Stephen Nicolosi on October 15, 2016, in Scranton, PA. Marianne Boyd Whorton ’09 and Samantha Haberman ’09 were bridesmaids.
Erin Maguire ’09 is engaged to Thomas Lynch. They will be married in the Lauralton Hall Chapel this summer. Amie Fracker ’09 is an RN in the Operating Room at Yale New Haven Hospital – Saint Raphael Campus. She became an aunt on February 3, 2017, when her big sister, Amanda Fracker Dempsey and husband, Matt, welcomed their first child, Tyler Matthew Dempsey. Susan Fracker, Guidance Counselor, is a proud grandmother. Laura Wooley ’09 is engaged to Michael Pasqua. A summer wedding is planned. Gina DeFeo ’10 has created a Lauralton Scholarship through GoFundMe in honor of Michele Broadley ’10,
H A L L M A R K S M AG A Z I N E S P R I N G 2017
Carly Lind ’08
Anne LoPiccolo D’Ambrisi ’08
Jenny Fitzmaurice Nicolosi ’09 29
CLASS NOTES
who lost her battle with metastatic Alveolar Rhabdomyosarcoma, a pediatric cancer. Kristina McCarthy ’10 is excited to announce that she got engaged at Longwood Gardens in December 2015 to her fiancé, Kevin Henry. They will be married at the beautiful St. Mary’s Church in Newport, RI. Hannah Feldman ’11 is pleased to announce her engagement to Mr. Chastin Hunt. Hannah and Chastin will be married on July 3, 2017. Hannah recently worked at the State Department, managing major events for the President and Secretary of State. Hannah currently works for the Department of Defense as a Communications Specialist. Kathleen Morton ’12 recently graduated from St. Joseph’s University in Philadelphia with a double major in Economic and Pharmaceutical Marketing. She was a member of Omicron delta Epsilon, the International Honor Society for Economics, and earned the SJU Law Endowment Award. This fall she is attending Syracuse University College of Law.
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Abbey Guerino ’12 received the award for highest academic record in creative writing during commencement from Providence College in the spring of 2016. She graduated summa cum laude and will be teaching English in Spain as a Fulbright teaching assistant post-graduation.
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Marianne Boyd Whorton ’09
Hannah Feldman ’11
Vincenza Bartholomew ’12 graduated magna cum laude with a double major in Elementary Education and Special Education along with a minor in Faith Justice Studies from Saint Joseph’s University. She is earning her Master’s of Education in Curriculum and Instruction at Boston College with a full scholarship from the Urban Catholic Teacher Corps. She notes, “Lauralton prepared me so well for college and graduate school.” Michelle Martire ’13 a senior English major at Dickinson College in Carlisle, PA, has been named to the dean’s list for the fall 2016 semester. Last year she studied abroad at Oxford University in England. In addition, she has been accepted into a Publishing MA at both Emerson College and NYU. Elizabeth Sargent ’16, who is enjoying her freshman year as a varsity swimmer at Seton Hall University, was named to the Dean’s List. Elizabeth swam in three events as a finalist helping the Pirates to their third place best finish ever. She is the daughter of Margy Sargent (Lauralton’s Music Director), sister to Caroline Sargent ’18, and granddaughter to Kathleen Spencer Sargent ’58. Jamiah Bennett ’16 is a freshman at the University of Connecticut. She is serving as an intern on the communications/organization team for a nonprofit called BRAVE Girls Leadership, Inc., which is giving her insight into a prospective communications career.
Vincenza Bartholomew ’12
DE A R LY DE PA R T E D
We recognize the following alumnae, family, and friends: Lorraine Warren Trueman ’43 Shirley Grady Conway ’47 Mary Jachimczyk Bankowski ’48 Sister to Bernadette Jachimcyzk ’57
Lauralton Fund Make a gift in memory of a loved one or in honor of a teacher or alumna
December 26, 2016 April 6, 2016
Joanne Buckley Hartmann ’54
June 15, 2016 November 13, 2015
Sally Kerrigan Gerrity ’55
July 27, 2016
Martha Pelton Hansen ’55
February 22, 2017
Frances Teodosio DeSanty ’60 Owen Black, Jr. Father of Susan Black ’70
August 16, 2016 February 10, 2017
Catherine Patricia Harkins Daly Huebner ’70 February 12, 2017 Dawn Russo Crotty ’70 Sister to Robin Russo Valle ’74
February 11, 2017
Margaret (“Peggy”) Corcoran Giblin ’71
December 9, 2016
Amy Ambrosina ’71 Sister to Angela Ambrosino Falk ’75
February 15, 2017
Robert Slavin, father of Patricia Slavin ’76, Pamela Slavin Ward ’77, and Jacqueline Slavin Williams ’84
October 21, 2016
Andrea Rolzhausen Pringle ’84
February 1, 2017
Paul Gardecki Husband to Ann Marie Picone Gardecki ’90
December 28, 2016
Mary Phelan Raccuia Mother to Caroline Raccuia ’08
September 13, 2016
Patricia Ambrisco Lind Mother to Carly Lind ’08 Michele Broadley ’10
Susan Trovarelli Librarian/ Media Specialist at Lauralton Hall
January 24, 2017 September 28, 2016 February 25, 2017
September 28, 2016
March 11, 2017
S P R I N G 2017
Editor’s Note: As this issue went to press, we learned that our trustee and friend, Sister Mary Etta Higgins ’58, passed away on April 24. We join her family, including her sisters Ann Higgins Porter ’52 and Elizabeth Higgins Gladfelter ’64, in mourning her passing. In the next issue of Hallmarks, we will pay special tribute to the life of a truly wonderful Sister of Mercy.
H A L L M A R K S M AG A Z I N E
Angelina Wood Mother of Elena Wood ’16 and Christina Wood ’20 Sister Marita Charles Murphy, RSM, A Sister of Mercy for 76 years, professed her vows in 1943, and Director of Guidance at Lauralton Hall
Give online at www.lauraltonhall.org/give
March 7, 2017
Claire Zielinkski Girardini ’54
Sandra Pekar Schweighoffer ’55
Michele Broadley ’10 lost her battle with a rare form of pediatric cancer on September 28, 2016. She graduated magna cum laude in 2015 with a BA in Psychology and minor in Women’s Studies from UConn. Michele began pursuing her Master’s in Psychology in Social Work at Southern Connecticut State University. She wanted one day to help children and young adults battling cancer. While undergoing rigorous treatments for more than three years, Michele strived to excel in everything she did.
February 10, 2017
31
NON-PROFIT ORG.
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
PERMIT NO. 1090
NEW HAVEN, CT
200 High Street • Milford, CT 06460
Customize your child’s camp experience! Choose from a wide range of NEW and exciting programs available this summer at Lauralton Hall! Sessions include Musical Engineering, Cupcake Creator, Kids with Canvas, The Amazing Race, Flag Football, Photography, Escape the Room, Robotics, DIY Designs, Mad Scientists, Trash the Runway, Coding and Computer Programming, Innovation Station and so much more!
Camp sessions run June 26 – August 11 We look forward to spending another summer with your children, fostering their interests and creativity!
Register now at www.seforkids.com. 200 High Street ~ Milford, CT summer@lauraltonhall.org 203.877.2786 x175