Highlights is published by Laurel School for alumnae, parents and friends
Submit address changes to the Development Office at 216 455 3096 or bGreen@LaurelSchool org
Laurel School is an independent day school for girls, Kindergarten through Grade 12, with coeducational programs for 18 months–four-yearolds We are proud to be an inclusive and equitable school community, and we actively seek a diverse student body and faculty without regard to race, color, sex, national origin, handicap or disability or sexual orientation
LAUREL VALUES STATEMENT: Committed to building a just and inclusive world, Laurel girls are courageous, creative, ethical and compassionate
Dream. Dare. Do.
ANNUAL REPORT
A MESSAGE OF GRATITUDE FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL
Dear Laurel Community,
As I settle into my role as Head of School, I'm filled with excitement about the opportunity to lead this incredible institution Over the past several months, my initial impressions of Laurel School have been nothing short of inspiring From the vibrant energy in the classrooms to the palpable dedication of our long-tenured faculty and staff, it's clear that this is a community truly committed to fostering an environment where girls can thrive, learn, and lead
This issue of Highlights, our annual report, serves as a testament to the incredible generosity of our donors and the unwavering support of our entire community Because of you—our alumnae, parents, grandparents, faculty, staff, and friends— Laurel continues to provide an unparalleled educational experience Your belief in our mission empowers us to innovate, expand opportunities, and ensure that every girl who walks through our doors is able to "fulfill her promise and better the world ”
The fruits of that generosity are evident today In August, our student athletes took the field on our new state-of-the-art turf at the Butler Campus, an investment that will support teamwork, competition, and joy for years to come Just a few months away, in January, we will open the doors to the 11,000-square-foot Ruhlman Family Center which will become our primary academic space at Butler and will provide dynamic spaces to foster even more exploration, collaboration, and connection in every student’s learning While these projects will be celebrated during my tenure, they are possible only because of the dedication and gifts from this community in years past
I thank the Laurel community for the warm welcome I've received I look forward to shepherding the school through this next chapter and working alongside all of you to support our girls
From a very grateful Gator,
Christina Breen Head of School
A MESSAGE FROM THE BOARD CHAIR
Dear Laurel Community,
I can think of no better way to start my tenure as Chair of the Board of Trustees than by recognizing the generosity and support of our Laurel Community during the past fiscal year Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for all you do to make our school truly extraordinary Your commitment to our mission to inspire each girl to fulfill her promise and to better the world is as vital as ever, as we boldly step into an exciting next chapter under the leadership of Christina Breen!
This past year was a time of reflection and excitement, as we celebrated all that makes Laurel so special, while also undertaking a search for a new Head of School who could unleash an exciting future with fresh ideas and perspective The Board of Trustees was beyond thrilled to find Ms Breen, whose experiences, expertise, vision and values make her a perfect 11th Head of Laurel School Now that she has officially begun, we are even more confident in our choice Christina is not only a highly respected academic leader with a deep commitment to student-centered education, she is passionate about developing strong, resilient women who will impact Laurel, their communities, and the world around them—for a lifetime
And just like that, we are already in the midst of a wonderful new school year! Convocation saw the traditional gerbera daisies passed from our Seniors to incoming Kindergarteners (and to Ms Breen!) Our Laurel Gators are piling up athletic victories, including Varsity Field Hockey bringing home a win in their first game on the new Linsalata Turf Field Halls and classrooms are buzzing, Laurel thespians are rehearsing in the Chapel, Laurel artists are throwing clay and painting on the Third Floor, and music and laughter is omnipresent across both of our amazing campuses—and we’ll have even more space to Dream, Dare and Do when the Ruhlman Family Center opens its doors in January
I am filled with optimism and anticipation for what’s to come, and can’t wait to partner with Christina, the Board of Trustees, Laurel’s extraordinary faculty and staff, and all of you to take our beloved school forward into the exciting future before us
With great appreciation,
Carey Jaros '96 Chair, Board of Trustees P’28, P’30, P’33
Laurel School Board of Trustees
Laurel welcomes our 2025-2026 incoming Board Members
Alexa Sweeney Blackann
occupation: Interim CEO of Lake to River Economic Development and Consultant, Cochran Auto Group
laurel ties: Daughters Finley ‘29, Eleanor ‘32
college/degrees: Youngstown State University
Alexa Sweeney Blackann is the Interim CEO of Lake to River Economic Development, a newly established JobsOhio regional partner serving Ashtabula, Trumbull, Mahoning, and Columbiana counties
Before joining Lake to River, Alexa served as President of Sweeney Chevrolet and Buick GMC in Youngstown During her tenure, the dealerships received multiple General Motors Mark of Excellence Awards, the company’s top honor for customer service and sales performance She also advanced a generations-long Sweeney family tradition of corporate philanthropy, supporting causes including Akron Children’s Hospital and Youngstown State University
Alexa is deeply involved in regional leadership, serving on the boards of the Youngstown Warren Regional Chamber, BRITE Energy Innovators, YSU Foundation, Akron Children’s Hospital Foundation, and the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County She lives in Youngstown with her husband, Josh, and their four children, including Finley ’29 and Eleanor ’32
laurel ties: Daughters Courtney ‘02, Stephanie ‘04, and Emma ‘27; granddaughter Amelia Morrison ‘38; grandson Theo Morrison (EL) college/degrees: University of Notre Dame, BA; Case Western Reserve University School of Law, JD
Mara Cushwa joined the Board after many years of Laurel service as a parent and grandparent She serves on the Development and Buildings and Grounds Committees She was the 2024–2025 President of the Laurel School Parents Association (LSPA)
Mara’s Laurel ties run deep She has three Laurel daughters: Dr Courtney Batt Morrison ’02, Stephanie Batt ’04, and Emma Batt ’27, and is the grandmother of Amelia Morrison ’38 and Theo Morrison (EL) Her husband, Jack Batt, is an Emeritus Trustee of the school
Mara is an attorney with Calfee, Halter, and Griswold A graduate of University of Notre Dame and Case Western Reserve University School of Law, she is active in professional and community service, serving on the boards of CCH Development Corporation and College Now Greater Cleveland She mentors law students and advises two private scholarship foundations She is past president of the CWRU Law Alumni Board and a former Recovery Resources board member
Pamela Smith Viscione ’79
occupation: CEO and President of Leadership and Change Consulting, LLC
Pamela Smith Viscione ’79 is the CEO and President of Leadership and Change Consulting, LLC, specializing in executive and life coaching, organizational consulting, teaching, mentoring, and public speaking A credentialed coach with the International Coaching Federation, she focuses on leadership, change, and executive coaching, and helping leaders build self-awareness, lead through transition, and achieve personal and professional growth
Pam spent 35 years at Procter & Gamble, holding senior leadership roles in global supply chain management across the United States and Western Europe
She serves on the boards of the Girl Scouts of Western Ohio and Every Child Succeeds in Cincinnati She holds a B A in Civil Engineering and Architecture from Princeton University, an M S in Executive Leadership and Organization Change from Northern Kentucky University, an M A in Leadership and Change, and a Ph D in Leadership and Change from Antioch University, where her research focused on the career advancement experiences of Black women executives in Fortune 1000 companies
Todd Stein
occupation: CEO Brunswick Companies
laurel ties: Granddaughter Shaina ‘33
college/degrees: Ohio State University Fisher College of Business, BS
Todd Stein is the Chief Executive Officer of Brunswick Companies, a national leader in insurance and risk manageme nt
Since joining Brunswick in 1979 and becoming CEO in 1987, Todd has scaled the company into a trusted industry leader, executing strategic initiatives that expanded market share and strengthened its competitive position He also founded TransGlobal Adjusting, addressing a critical market need and delivering measurable impact A respected advisor, Todd has provided risk management guidance to organizations including the Greater Cleveland Jewish Federation and the LeBron James Family Foundation
A dedicated civic leader, Todd serves on the board of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland and is a founding board member of the LeBron James Family Foundation He established the Todd & Carmie Stein Family Innovation Fund at University Hospitals’ Cutler Center for Men and created the Brunswick Match for the Jewish Federation’s Annual Campaign
Todd holds a B S in Business Administration from The Ohio State University L
RUHLMAN FAMILY CENTER CONSTRUCTION
ON TIME AND ALMOST READY!
The Ruhlman Family Center (RFC) is an exciting addition to Laurel School’s Butler Campus, designed as an 11,000-square-foot multi-use classroom and gathering space to support students, faculty, and the broader school community. Slated to open in January 2026, with a grand opening celebration planned for Spring 2026, the RFC will become the primary academic building on the Butler Campus.
What the Center Includes
The RFC is built with flexible, light-filled spaces to support a variety of learning, community, and sustainability-oriented functions Key features include:
● Four flexible classrooms
● A dining room and full kitchen capable of serving over 100 people, which will double as an event space
● A central meeting room for collaboration among faculty, parents, and students
● Office and flexible staff spaces intended to bring administrators and teachers into closer daily proximity to the Butler academic environment
● Outdoor and gathering-oriented amenities: a 150-seat outdoor amphitheater, a covered patio for weatherprotected outdoor learning, and a landscaped rain garden connected to walkways and community use
● Practical infrastructure for ease of arrival and exit: a turnaround drive, benches, bike racks to promote active arrival, and sustainability features
Progress to Date
Construction is nearly complete, and the building will come online in January 2026, when it becomes the classroom space for girls in Grades 3 and 5 Laurel is preparing to transition into the space in early 2026 and coordinating design, scheduling, and programming adjustments to take full advantage of the new facility
The Ruhlman Family Center marks a significant investment in learning, sustainability, and connection at Laurel Once open, it will serve not only as a place to hold classes but as a hub for community events, experiential learning and engagement with the natural world L
A NEW ERA FOR LAUREL FIELD HOCKEY & LACROSSE: LINSALATA FIELD
TURF DEBUT
It was truly an exciting day for the Laurel community as we celebrated the unveiling of the state-of-theart Linsalata Turf Field and honored the illustrious history of field hockey, one of Laurel's first sports. This $1.7 million project, the largest field upgrade since the Butler Campus opened, marks a crucial step in achieving Strategic Athletic Excellence by providing a premier, industry-standard surface for both field hockey and lacrosse.
Fundraising and Recognition
The successful completion of this transformational project was made possible entirely through the generous commitment of the Laurel School community The field retains the Linsalata Field name, honoring the original support from Frank and Jocelyne Linsalata in the early 2000s, with additional gifts from Frank and Jocelyne and their daughter, Natalie Linsalata Greene '06
The project was guided by the vision and leadership of the Board, with crucial support from current families, devoted alumnae, and lead gifts from the Rowley Family Foundation, Shook Construction, KeyBank, the Laurel School Parents Association, and the Laurel Athletic Boosters
Special recognition goes to the Turf Host Committee, whose tireless work drove engagement and excitement throughout the fundraising campaign:
● Lynnette Jackson Crenshaw '93
● Meredith Stewart Reimer '95
● Neeti Sundaresh '95
● Carey Jaros '96
● Gwen Gillespie Herman '00
● Rosemary Mudry '02
● Natalie Linsalata Greene '06
● Mara Cushwa
Varsity Triumph and Future Competition
The dedication culminated in the 3rd annual Alumnae vs Varsity Scrimmage, the first to be played on the new turf The speed of play, which Head Coach Meghan Daly noted is significantly faster on the new surface, proved to be an instant advantage for the current student athletes, who captured their first win against the Alumnae team
With the new field moving Laurel from one of the last remaining schools in Ohio to play on grass to a facility praised by referees as "the best field we have ever walked on," the varsity program is now perfectly positioned for longterm dominance The turf eliminates the previous competitive disadvantage and acts as an incredible recruiting tool The alumnae competitors, feeling the immediate difference in play, will certainly need to gear up with some dedicated turf time practice if they have any hope in recapturing the title next year! The future of Laurel field hockey is bright and fast!
Laurel School unveiled recently state-of-the-art turf at its Butler campus in Russell Township, representing the largest upgrade to its fields since the Fairmount Road campus opened in 2002 Pictured alongside varsity field hockey players, who captured their first win of the season Saturday, are (from left) Christina Breen, head of school, David Meyer, athletic director, and Meghan Daly, head coach
Home Field Advantage
Laurel opens field hockey season on all-new battleground
By SUE PINKERTON
Saturday’s win over Bishop Hartley in the opening game of Laurel’s field hockey season wasn’t the only cause for celebration at the Butler campus in Russell Township
There, the 22-member roster enjoyed under foot a premier surface for competition, with the first-ever turf field unveiled recently and making clear the school’s commitment to overall excellence
“It provides such a great surface for our current athletes, but is also an incredible recruiting tool,” new
head of school Christina Breen said “We are excited to raise the level of all our programs and attract elite athletes who want to play in college ”
Spanning 77,000 square feet and representing at $1 7 million the largest upgrade to the fields since the 150-acre Butler campus opened on Fairmount Road in 2002, the Linsalata Turf Field, which will also support lacrosse this spring, will surely elevate the program for athletes, Coach Meghan Daly continued
“The speed of play is so much faster,” said Ms Daly,
a former Division 1 field hockey player in her fourth year as Laurel’s head field hockey coach
Throughout the process of its installation beginning earlier this summer, Ms Daly would check on the field every day, she said
“The second the first piece of turf was laid, I started fielding around a small area, and it was perfect ”
She, along with Athletic Director David Meyer, traveled the country researching fields before landing on the maintenance-free gold series turf by FieldTurf, a company considered a world leader in the artificial turf industry
“It’s absolutely incredible,”
Mr Meyer, athletic director since 2006, said “We’ve gotten amazing feedback so far ”
Environmentally responsible in design, with no rubber infill and a fully recyclable surface, the field was even better and more beautiful than she expected, senior defender Brooke Lawrence, 17, of Bainbridge, said prior to Saturday’s match-up
Midfielder Miako Dallas, 18, of Auburn, who has been playing the sport since grade school, said as a senior, the skills she has learned can now be showcased on such a premier field
The new surface serves as a motivator for her this season, added senior midfielder and captain Maddie Gurbach, 16, of Shaker Heights The new turf also means her school is taking field hockey more seriously, she added
The sport, of which the first official team was established on the back fields at Laurel’s Lyman Campus in the 1930s, has enjoyed its fair share of accolades throughout the school’s history That included participation in four state finals beginning in the 1980s
“We are sort of the little engine that could,” Ms Breen said of a smaller school and smaller program “To represent at that state level is extraordinary ”
“When I first arrived (at the school), it was the premier sport and had just come off a state trip with state semifinalists,” Mr Meyer continued “It has a long, proud history of success ”
As a result, a couple of years ago, the push began from the school’s board of trustees for a turf field, with athletes formerly playing on grass and unable to host in the post-season as a result
“We had to go to competitor schools to play, and that kind of sank in to our board of trustees and everyone else,” Mr Meyer explained “We give them such a great experience here, and so we wanted to give them home field advantage ”
The turf upgrade to Linsalata Field, named for the family of 2006 graduate Natalie Linsalata and also representing the name of the original field created in the early 2000s, was made possible through numerous contributions from the Laurel School community Credited was the vision and leadership of Board Chair Carey Jaros and her husband Brett Farmery, along with support of current families and devoted alumnae, whose lives were shaped by Laurel athletics, including field hockey and lacrosse
Also guiding the project was a Turf Committee composed of alumnae and parents, with the transformational project the result of numerous lead gifts, including from the Rowley Family Foundation, Shook Construction, KeyBank, the Laurel School Parents Association and the Laurel Athletic Boosters
“Everyone has been extremely excited to get on the turf,” Ms Daly said, adding that athletes want to stay on after practice and see the turf as a commitment from their school
“They are excited to have that support,” she said
Earlier this month, the field was dedicated during a game of the Alumnae and current varsity team
“The referees said ‘this is the best
field we have ever walked on,’” Mr Meyer said, adding that statewide, rules have changed to post-season field hockey games only being allowed to be played on turf
“Everyone has transitioned to turf,” he said “The ball just rolls incredibly smooth ”
Moving forward, the turf will draw tournament play, Ms Breen said, as well as rentals, with John Carroll University already reaching out
“This will be a great lacrosse field as well,” added Ms Breen, a former division three player and private school high school lacrosse coach for 30 years who came to Laurel this year from Phillips Exeter Academy in New Hampshire
Ms Breen noted that in addition to the new turf field, the school’s grass fields for soccer are so popular that they are being considered as a FIFA training site for the World Cup next summer
Although their locker rooms may not be large enough, Ms Breen said they are hoping to engage They will also be hosting a large lacrosse tournament in April, she said
A member of the Northeast Ohio Conference for Field Hockey, Laurel has experienced a shift in focus to what the team’s overall culture is, Ms Daly added of her leadership style, exploring everything it takes to win, including dedication and effort beyond skills and tactics
She has also begun a field hockey program with Laurel’s third to fifth graders, whose classes are housed at Butler
“The earlier they start, the more they are prepared,” she said, adding “everything that has to do with culture has to do with winning ”
“Right now we are not sending 10 girls to D1 schools,” Ms Daly said, “but we are focusing on what this program gives them later in life, too ” L
Laurel Girls Today . . .Leaders Tomorrow: A Conversation with Leslie K Segal ’95
Director of Community & Global Leadership
Co-Director of
Laurel's Center for Research on Girls
Q: When you were a Laurel student you were president of student government, and more recently you spent over a decade in leadership in our Middle School. Tell us what excites you about your new role as Director of Community and Global Leadership?
A: As I enter my 13th year at Laurel, I feel incredibly energized by the exciting momentum we have and the chance to connect and align leadership development across the school It’s always been an important component of a Laurel education but the focus of this role highlights the intentionality of it Whether through service learning, Project Adventure, or our Dreamers & Doers speaker series, we help students understand that leadership isn’t a title, it’s a practice And at Laurel, practice starts early and lasts a lifetime Every girl at Laurel has the chance to step into meaningful roles where she learns to collaborate, reflect, and grow
Q: There’s an age-old conversation about whether leaders are born or made. The evidence certainly suggests that it is the latter. So how does Laurel make leadership development intentional across all divisions?
A: Over the past year, we created a Leadership Skills Continuum that maps out what leadership looks like from Early Childhood through Grade 12 Each year, students practice and build on skills from the year before— communication, collaboration, empathy, problem-solving Leadership happens in classrooms, yes, but also in cocurricular spaces where girls get to test themselves in realworld contexts We coach them on the skills they need to succeed and support them through feedback and reflection
Clarity and consistency are important in developing the capacity to lead
Q: As you’ve acknowledged, service has always been important at Laurel going back to our earliest days. What’s new about our approach in 2025?
A: We’ve been transforming traditional “community service” into Community and Civic Engagement experiences that align with Laurel’s mission to better the world These aren’t onetime or one-and-done projects—they connect with academic learning and respond to real community needs For example:
● Eighth Graders launched an online public health campaign
● Second Graders practiced literacy skills with elder pen pals
● Science students identified invasive plants and contributed data as citizen scientists
The key is reflection: students don’t just log hours— they ask why their work matters and how they can grow as changemakers
Q: What are some ways Laurel students are leading outside the classroom?
A: Leadership takes many forms Our Project Adventure curriculum at our Butler Campus challenges girls to test their integrity, motivation, and teamwork We’ve expanded opportunities for student facilitators to lead activities This year, we also launched Service Preseason with over 50 students volunteering with nonprofits before the school year began Some are already stepping into service leadership
roles with partner organizations One new Ninth Grader who volunteered for the first time in August with Youth Challenge helped host a volunteer training at the School leading up to serving as a Youth Challenge service captain for our Sarah Lyman Day of Service in early October
We’re also piloting new student-led concentrations in Entrepreneurship, Sustainability & Changemaking, and Writing, Rhetoric & Artistic Expression These give students voice, choice, and the chance to tell their leadership story in ways that feel authentic to them
Q: What about opportunities at school?
A: We’re growing on-campus service pathways so that leadership development starts close to home Younger students benefit when older peers help them—whether it’s getting Early Learners dressed for outdoor play, supporting PE classes, assisting in science labs, or serving as academic buddies We also see potential for athletes and musicians to mentor younger students It’s about creating a culture where leadership is woven into daily life
Q: You mentioned the Dreamers & Doers speaker series. What’s ahead for that?
A: Last year, our students hosted women leaders in healthcare, STEM, entrepreneurship, and women’s empowerment This year, we’re adding voices on conflict resolution These panels are student-facilitated, which means girls aren’t just listening—they’re actively shaping the conversation
Q: How can the Laurel community support this work?
A: Leadership at Laurel thrives when our whole community is involved Trustees, alumnae, parents, and community partners can:
● Speak on a Dreamers & Doers panel
● Connect us with inspiring leaders in their networks
● Mentor a Protégé student
● Suggest new community partnerships
Every connection expands what our students can imagine for themselves as leaders
Q: How does your work with Laurel’s Center for Research on Girls (LCRG) dovetail with leadership development in education?
A: As Co-Director of LCRG, I also support strategic partnerships and help lead our LCRG On the Road workshops Last year, LCRG launched a cohort of new educators into their teaching careers—and this fall, we’re mentoring two second-year teachers as they apply the best research on how girls learn to their classroom practices at Laurel every day
We’re also deepening Laurel’s leadership impact as teacherleaders in NEO: this fall, we’ve placed six pre-service education students from John Carroll with master teachers at Lyman and Butler Laurel is not just preparing students to lead—we’re also helping new educators learn how to do the same for their future students
Q: What’s the big picture? What do you hope every Laurel student carries with her?
A: Leadership rooted in purpose We want every Laurel girl to graduate with the skills, confidence, and sense of responsibility to better the world That means being willing to step up, listen deeply, collaborate, and create change At Laurel, those aren’t abstract ideals—they’re lived, practiced, and refined every day
Faculty-Funded Grants Foster Innovation and Professional Growth
Each year, Laurel reaffirms its commitment to fostering the professional growth, expertise, and creativity of its faculty. Through generous grant opportunities, educators are empowered to explore the world in ways that expand their knowledge, enrich the curriculum, and bring transformative learning experiences back to the classroom. These grants extend the reach of Laurel teaching both within and beyond our walls.
The Apple Seed Grant
Thanks to the incredible generosity of Anne Conway Juster '80 and Joe Juster, Laurel is able to award annual travel fellowships through the Apple Seed Grant Designed to support faculty in pursuing distinctive, once-in-a-lifetime professional development opportunities, the grant encourages educators to explore the world in ways that will meaningfully enhance their return to the classroom
For 2025, recipients Faina Polt, Kimberley Butler, and Emily Felderman each pursued immersive experiences that will directly enrich their teaching and inspire their students
Faina Polt and Kimberley Butler participated in Poland Personally, a Classrooms Without Borders study seminar on Holocaust history and education The program offered a profound exploration of how history and modern life intertwine, revealing both contrasts and connections that remain strikingly relevant today
Faina reflected that the journey “truly cemented my appreciation for the country and my sense of awe at how history and modernity coexist and interact ” She described the powerful juxtaposition of “sites of atrocity, former concentration camps like Auschwitz or Majdanek, by geographic necessity existing alongside glittering, contemporary cities ” While the heaviness of the trip was undeniable, she called its “greatest gift… a reaffirmation of contrast, of trying to see both the pain and the beauty ”
Kimberley shared that the experience profoundly deepened her “understanding of the Holocaust and Jewish life in Europe
Emily Felderman traveled to North Carolina to attend an intensive course in reductive screenprinting taught by artist J Leigh Garcia at the renowned Penland School of Crafts The program offered hands-on training in printmaking fundamentals such as ink mixing, layering, paper preparation, and editing techniques, all within Penland’s famously immersive and collaborative environment
Reflecting on her experience, Emily shared, “I know I will be processing my time at the Penland School of Crafts for a long time to come I feel so grateful and thrilled to have had the opportunity to spend a week immersed in a reductive silkscreening course with remarkable teachers They went above and beyond sharing not only technical knowledge and compositional strategies, but also professional practices and their own personal journeys as artists ”
The campus itself was transformative “The studios were open 24/7, and I found myself working 14 to 17 hours each day, completely absorbed by the rhythm of the process—layering, color mixing, and watching each design evolve ”
Emily returned deeply inspired both as a textile artist and as a teacher “This experience has left me with renewed confidence to bring more printmaking into both my teaching and my own studio practice I am returning with new ideas, renewed energy, and profound gratitude for the opportunity ”
Her expanded skills will allow her to enrich Laurel’s Grades 3 - 5 art curriculum, especially interdisciplinary projects such as
before, during, and after World War II ” Visiting museums, memorials, ghettos, and former concentration camps illuminated “courageous efforts of resistance and the triumph of humanity, alongside relics of unimaginable cruelty ” She found “the spectrum of human capability astounding” and stressed that this history remains “unfortunately relevant to world events of today,” underscoring how “crucial it is to explore this history with students as they strive to better the world ”
Fourth Grade’s Colonial broadsides, and to guide her students through more advanced, hands-on printing processes In doing so, she will give them new ways to explore creativity, problem-solving, and self-expression
By engaging in these programs, Faina, Kimberley, and Emily have strengthened their ability to lead students through meaningful learning experiences, whether through exploring history, cultivating empathy, or mastering new artistic techniques Each will return to the classroom with fresh knowledge, renewed inspiration, and the tools to help students think critically, create boldly, and strive toward a more just and imaginative future
Jaros Transformational Learning Fellowships Celebrate a Greener Future Literally!
Laurel School is delighted to recognize the recipients of the 2025–26 Susan and Stanley Jaros Transformational Learning Fellowships. Now in its second year, the Fellowship celebrates Laurel’s belief that when our teachers are inspired learners, our students thrive. Thanks to the generosity of the Jaros-Farmery family, faculty have the opportunity to pursue big ideas that ignite their passions and ripple out to benefit the entire Laurel community.
This year’s Fellows are planting seeds for a greener, more resilient future—quite literally!
Middle School Science teacher Abbie Bole received a fellowship for her project entitled Wings of Change: Cultivating Resilience through Birding and Nature With years of experience caring for Laurel’s outdoor spaces, she will deepen her expertise by becoming an Ohio Certified Volunteer Naturalist specializing in ornithology Her project will introduce students to birding through new bird-feeding stations, a student ornithology club, and seasonal nature walks Girls will also engage in citizen science projects that contribute to global conservation efforts The project not only brings joy and wonder into the school day but also highlights how time in nature can build resilience, purpose, and environmental stewardship
Laurel’s Sustainability Committee will advance A SustainablyFocused Future for Laurel School Committee members will visit model programs to learn how other schools integrate sustainability into curriculum and daily life Inspired by what they discover, Laurel will roll out new initiatives such as a sustainability-focused speaker series, student and faculty mini-grants for green projects, and fresh opportunities for hands-on learning, from hydroponic gardening to native plant landscaping Efforts to build a native plant garden in the Whidden Memorial Gardens are already underway, spearheaded by Art Department Chair Lori Kella; Latin teacher Dr. John Paul Aldrup-MacDonald, and Director of Capstone Howard Schott, all of whom maintain native gardens at their own homes and are eager to introduce this process to Lyman Circle These efforts will help weave sustainability into Laurel’s
culture and create opportunities for girls to lead in shaping a more sustainable future
Both projects embody the vision of the Jaros Fellowship: to encourage Laurel faculty to take bold risks, follow their passions, and bring their discoveries back to inspire our students We look forward to watching these initiatives come to life in the coming year and to the lasting impact they will have on Laurel girls
Ohio Tax Credit offers the opportunity to support a Laurel student
In 2021, Ohio created the new Ohio Tax Credit Scholarship Program, which allows people to provide scholarship support to Laurel students and receive a dollar-for-dollar tax credit for your gift!
Your donation is made through a Scholarship Granting Organization (SGO) directly and you will receive a tax credit up to $750 on your Ohio income tax returns Married couples filing jointly may claim up to $1500 As long as your Ohio state tax obligation is equal to or greater than your gift amount, your donation costs you nothing extra to make your gift, go directly to the OAIS website at https://oais.gosgo.co/donations/new When prompted, select “Laurel School – Shaker Heights ” Gifts may be made by check, credit card or ACH As with any charitable donation, please contact your tax advisor to see if this opportunity makes sense for you and your family
Laurel is a member of the Ohio Association of Independent Schools (OAIS), which has created its own SGO for donations.
Alumnae-Funded Grants Open New Doors for Laurel Students
Each year, Laurel students are encouraged to think boldly about how they want to grow. Thanks to three generous grant opportunities funded by members of the Laurel community, they are given the means to do just that. From exploring creative passions to taking action through public service and civic engagement, these grants provide students with the chance to expand their impact beyond the classroom. Here’s a look at this year’s recipients and the meaningful experiences they have pursued.
The Joan D. and John T. Scott Fund
The Joan D and John T Scott Fund was established in memory of John Thomson Scott, Jr , father of three Laurel alumnae: Julie Scott Lovell ’74, Katherine Marjorie Scott ’78, and Amy Scott Gilchrist ’81 The fund supports Laurel students with a passion for civic engagement, human rights, and social justice This year’s recipient, Claire Witalec ’25, participated in the AMP Global Youth Scholars Extension Program in Washington, D C , which brings together high school students from around the world to explore advocacy, leadership, and the responsibilities of global citizenship
This summer’s program focused on trust and the social fabric in relation to political polarization and leadership Claire attended speaker sessions, workshops, and field experiences in Washington, D C , including visits to Capitol Hill and conversations with international education leaders She began work on the State of the Global Youth Report, a collaborative research project designed to capture the perspectives of young people on pressing international issues
Reflecting on her experience, Claire shared that she gained not only valuable knowledge but also a network of peers equally passionate about creating meaningful change
She expressed gratitude for the Scott Fund, which she said inspired her to continue her journey in democracy and civic engagement
The Katherine S. B. Mills Photography Grant
The Mills Photography Grant provides an enrichment opportunity for an Upper School student with a strong interest in photography Established in loving memory of Katherine "Katie" Mills, a talented and vibrant member of the Class of 1997, the grant supports aspiring photography students by helping them attend a summer photography program or class The experience mirrors Katie’s own path and encourages students to explore their creativity in meaningful ways
This year’s recipient, Asalé Jones ’26, attended a pre-college photography course at the Cleveland Institute of Art Through the program, she not only gained technical knowledge from skilled photographers but also developed a deeper appreciation for the art form Asalé expanded her range by experimenting with lighting, composition, and angles, transforming everyday scenes into compelling images She reflected that she now enjoys the entire creative process, from finding a subject to bringing a vision to life Passionate about social justice, Asalé hopes to use her artistic skills to “translate a story through photography and share with others the complexities of life as families of color ”
The Emily Pomeranz '85 Prize for Public Service
The Emily Pomeranz Prize for Public Service, created in memory of Emily, Class of 1985, is awarded annually to support a Sophomore or Junior who proposes a meaningful public service project to be carried out over spring or summer break The $1,500 prize helps offset a portion of the costs associated with bringing their idea to life
This year, two students were honored with the Pomeranz Prize for their ambitious efforts to make a difference in their communities
Julia Duong ’26 launched Flourish, a nonprofit youth group created in response to local Vietnamese community members who wanted to help future generations stay connected to their cultural identity Flourish aims to connect, inspire, and support Vietnamese-American youth in Cleveland by offering mentorship, opportunities for collaboration, and space to pursue projects rooted in their passions Julia envisions Flourish as a hub that not only nurtures individual dreams but also honors and uplifts the legacy of past generations Through community programs and outreach, her goal is to help young people build confidence in their futures while remaining grounded in their heritage
Claire Leland ’26 is the founder of the Celiac Support Collective (CSC), a nonprofit that addresses food insecurity for individuals who must follow a gluten-free diet Recognizing the challenges and costs associated with maintaining a medically necessary gluten-free lifestyle, Claire created CSC to provide resources, education, and support for those navigating these dietary restrictions, particularly in underserved communities With the support of the Pomeranz Prize, she is expanding the reach of CSC and working to ensure that no one has to choose between their health and access to food
Both students are turning passion into action, and their work reflects the values of service, leadership, and advocacy that this prize seeks to inspire
These grants are more than just funding — they are an investment in the voices, visions, and values of Laurel girls as they prepare to lead with purpose. L
LAUREL SCHOOL‘S DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT
HIGH FIVES & HEARTFELT THANKS
As we embark on another year and another chapter of Laurel’s illustrious story, I must first pause to reflect, with profound gratitude, on the generosity and spirit of our Laurel community. Together, over the past year, we met ambitious goals and continued to propel our mission forward in ways that will have a lasting impact for generations to come.
Your support of the Laurel Fund provides immediate and essential resources that elevate every student’s experience. From classroom innovations to faculty development to student opportunities beyond "these dear walls," your gifts make a difference every single day.
We celebrated the remarkable 21-year tenure of Ann V. Klotz as Head of School. Our community came together throughout the year and across the country to honor Ann and her leadership. We were proud to add nearly $100,000 to the Ann V. Klotz Endowed Scholarship Fund, a tribute to Ann’s steadfast commitment to access and belonging, which helps ensure that girls benefit from the transformative power of a Laurel education, regardless of financial circumstance.
With great excitement, we broke ground and re-dedicated Linsalata Field, our new turf field that expands athletic opportunities for students of all ages. The enthusiastic support for this project reflects our shared belief in the importance of wellness, teamwork, competition, and joyful play.
The Class of 2025’s Senior Class Gift, funding native landscaping around the soon-to-open Ruhlman Family Center, is both thoughtful and lasting. It’s a wonderful reflection of their class’s passion and commitment to sustainability and land stewardship. Please keep an eye out for a save the date this coming spring, when our community will gather to officially dedicate the Ruhlman Family Center and celebrate meaningful contributions like the Class of 2025’s gift that helped bring this incredible project to life.
To celebrate the milestone of their 50th Reunion, the Class of 1975 graciously raised funds in support of Helping Hands, a program that helps cover additional school expenses for students receiving financial assistance. Whether it’s for a yearbook, additional art supplies, or a Passport trip, Helping Hands ensures that every Laurel girl can fully participate in the life of our school.
These are just a few highlights from a year filled with generosity and care. We are deeply grateful to you, our donors. Thank you for every gift, in every form, and for how you continue to support and enrich Laurel School through your philanthropic generosity.
Each gift, large or small, is a gesture of belief in our students, our mission, and the enduring strength of this community. Thank you for your dedicated and loyal generosity!
All my best,
Maegan Ruhlman Cross ‘03 Director of Development
Laurel Board Members
2024-2025 Laurel School Board of Trustees
Members
Megan Lum Mehalko ‘83, Chair v Carey Jaros ‘96, Vice Chair v Susan Shons Luria ‘85, Secretary v Bethany Bryant, Treasurer v
Susan Opatrny Althans ‘80 v Zahrah Azhar
Gausia Chowdhury ‘02
Vincent Coley
Michael Conway
Alisa Taylor Cowen ‘72
Anne Dalton ‘63
Erica Markum Dennings ‘81 v
Karen McCartan DeSantis ‘79
Taylor Goodman ‘05
April Hawkins ‘83 v Margaret Schumann-Ippolito
Kathleen Jeavons ‘81 v Aaron Kamat
Matthew Krug
Anita Lee ‘88
David Markowitz
Lynne Sheffler Megerian
Chaundra King Monday ‘95 v Elizabeth Sheeler
Kim Simpson ‘90
Neeti Sundaresh ‘95
Suzanne Schulze Taylor ‘81 v Tracy Vigh
Emeriti
Victoria Anderson ‘82
John Batt
Susan Walter Cargile ‘60
Christine Cowan Smith ‘70
Lynnette Jackson Crenshaw ‘93
Louise Pomeroy Dempsey ‘62
Sr. Maureen Doyle, O.S.U.
Elizabeth Embrescia ‘88
Heather Roulston Ettinger ‘79
Ann Wible Gillespie
Lee Hoffman
Anne Conway Juster ‘80
Frank Linsalata
Nancy Breckenridge McCormack ‘48
Kenneth Moore
Douglas Preiser
Donna Reid
Nancy Phelps Seitz ‘68
George Sherwin
Jeffrey Sinclair
Ex-officio
Ann V. Klotz, Head of School
Meredith Stewart Reimer ‘95, President, LSAA
Mara Cushwa, President, LSPA
2024-2025 Alumnae Association Board (LSAA)
Meredith Stewart Reimer ‘95, President
Rosemary Mudry ‘02, Vice President
Laurie Wilde Oswald ‘87, Secretary
Sara Ismail-Beigi Bartlett ‘03
Erin Adelman Court ‘00
Morgan Curtiss ‘10
Mindy Safran Davidson ‘77
Amber Davis Dumas ‘02
Shanika Ranasinghe Esparaz ‘05
Marlana Strange Harris ‘97
Cheryl Jackson Johnson ‘95
Alison Leddy ‘11
Arnetta Dean Matthews ‘02
Lila Jezierski Mills ‘92
Chelsea Robbins ‘11
Jacquelyn Daugherty Sanborn ‘10
Sara Hollabaugh Serbanoiu ‘13
Keli Zehnder ‘83
2024-2025 Laurel School Parents Association (LSPA) Executive Board
Mara Cushwa, President
Katie Fox, President-Elect
Pamela Provan Barragate ‘90, Treasurer
Jen Halapy, Gator Lane Treasurer
Amy Dolzine, Recording Secretary
Courtney Conway, Fundraising Coordinator
2024-25 Division Coordinators
Christine Lee-Poturalski, Early Childhood Coordinator
Katie Klimek, Grades K-2 Coordinator
Christopher Ramos, Grades 3-5 Coordinator
Melissa Cooper, Grades 6-8 Coordinator
Erika Leiken, Grades 9-12 Coordinator
v Executive Committee Member List of trustees as of 7/1/2024
D Deceased
2024-2025 Contributed Income
2024-2025 Laurel Fund Breakdown
LEGACY for LAUREL
A LEGACY that LASTS
“What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others.”
—Pericles
Including Laurel School in your estate plans is a powerful way to leave a legacy that uplifts future generations of girls. For more than 125 years, Laurel has been a beacon of excellence in girls’ education, empowering students to discover their strengths, pursue their passions, and become leaders who make a difference in the world. By making a planned gift to Laurel, you ensure this transformative education continues for decades to come.
CURIOUS IF YOU’RE A GOOD FIT FOR LEGACY FOR LAUREL MEMBERSHIP? LEGACY FOR LAUREL DONORS ARE OFTEN WOMEN WHO:
• Are committed to ensuring the sustainability, growth, and success of Laurel for future generations.
• Are motivated by a desire to help others and leave the world a better place.
• Believe their values and contributions can make a lasting difference beyond their lifetime.
• Understand the transformational power of philanthropy, no matter the size of the gift.
• Are thoughtful in planning their estates, balancing personal needs with charitable giving.
An ideal estate donor recognizes the power of planned giving to create a ripple effect of positive change that aligns with their values and priorities. With a planned gift to Laurel, you ensure that the life-changing experience of a Laurel education continues to empower young women for years to come.
Have questions or want to learn more? Contact Maegan Ruhlman Cross '03, Director of Development, at 216.455.3031 or mCross@LaurelSchool.org.
