Mater Matters Fall 2023

Mater Matters FA L L 2 02 3

Board of Trustees

MESSAGE FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL

Mrs. Marianne Grace P ’04 Head of School

Marianne Grace

Mrs. Ellen Byrnes Willcox ’80, P ’12 Chair Sister Marybeth Beretta, RSM Mr. Mark Bullock, Secretary Mrs. Elsie Goss Caldwell, P ’96 Mrs. Diane Johnson DiCicco ’97 Mr. Robert Dunne, P ’07, ’12

Welcome to the Fall 2023 issue of Mater Matters. As we begin an exciting new school year, I appreciate the time to reflect on 2022-2023—my first full year as Merion Mercy Academy’s Head of School. The journey has been nothing short of inspiring, and I am honored to share in the accomplishments and growth we have achieved together.

Mrs. Megan Grady, P ’19, ’20 Mrs. Megan Knott, P ’21 Vice-Chair Mrs. Beth Howley Krieger ’76

HOME

Sister Christine McCann, RSM Mrs. Catharine McGeever, P ’16 Mr. Brian O’Neill, P ’07, ’09, ’16* Mrs. Alexandra Parson, P ’22 Mr. James Pizzi, P ’16, ’18* Mr. Dennis Riley, P ’20 Dr. Laura Stubbs ’75 Mrs. Theresa Tensuan-Eli, P ’22 Dr. Michelle Williams ’96 *New trustees since last issue. Their bios may be found on our website.

Over the past year, we have embarked on a collective mission to foster a vibrant and nurturing learning environment that empowers young women to excel academically, socially, and personally. It’s heartening to witness the enthusiasm with which our students have embraced new challenges, the dedication of our faculty in guiding them, and the unwavering support of parents in nurturing their daughter’s dreams.

27 &

As a community, we have not only maintained the traditions that define us but also embraced innovation and change to prepare our students for a dynamic world. From adopting cutting-edge teaching methodologies to enhancing our commitment to mission, ministry and belonging, we have consistently aimed for and achieved excellence. The outcomes for our graduating class, as well as our accomplishments from the classroom to the stage and playing field, stand as testaments to the spirit of courage, collaboration, and creativity that thrive here.

With a firm foundation in place, we will continue to advance the priorities of our strategic plan: ● Academic Excellence and Transformative Learning ● Principled Leadership ● Dynamic Learning Environments ● Institutional Resilience and Accessibility ● Faith, Cultural Fluency, and Community Our progress to date has been significant and I am proud of what has been accomplished and what we’ve set our sights on.

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each one of you—students, parents, alumnae, faculty, and staff—for your unwavering support and belief in our mission to empower young women to lead, learn, and serve. Together, we will continue to inspire curiosity, uncover passions, and shape the leaders of tomorrow. Looking ahead, I am excited about the limitless potential that our future holds.

Warm regards,

Marianne Grace Head of School

T H E

M A G A Z I N E

O F

M E R I O N

M E R C Y

IN THIS ISSUE

A C A D E M Y

Mater Matters

Fall 2023

HEAD OF SCHOOL Marianne Grace MAGAZINE EDITOR Kimberly Shimer LAYOUT AND DESIGN Biddle Design CONTRIBUTORS Kristina Stanton Cawley ’90 Barbara Colantuono Harrison ’82 PHOTOGRAPHY Kristen Harrison ‘16 Christina Feo Penezic ’80 Lifetouch Photography DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT Stacy Gallagher ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT Kristina Stanton Cawley ’90 DIRECTOR OF ALUMNAE RELATIONS Barbara Colantuono Harrison ’82

Mater Matters is a publication of Merion Mercy Academy 511 Montgomery Ave. Merion Station, PA 19066 610-664-6655 • www.merion-mercy.com

Letters to the editor are welcomed and should include the author’s name, address, email address, and daytime phone number. Please send correspondence to Editor, Mater Matters, Merion Mercy Academy, 511 Montgomery Avenue, Merion Station, PA 19066, or email kshimer@merion-mercy.com. Printed letters may be edited for length, content and style.

Mater Matters is an annual magazine for the Merion Mercy Academy community and is published by the Marketing and Communications Office in collaboration with the Development Office.

Zipporah Sills ’23 marks a milestone on graduation day.

F E AT U R E S

2

Celebrating the Class of 2023

12 A 4,700 Mile Journey 14 The Circle of Mercy 15 Sip ‘n Bid 16 Fashion Show 17 Academic Innovation and Transformative Learning

20 Their Stories Continue:

ON THE COVER Hailey Kenefick ’26, Madeline Ratner ’25 and Nydia Kannah ’26 share a moment with the Golden Bear.

Class of 2019 D E PA R T M E N T S 4: BLUE & GOLD UPDATES 22: REUNION 24: CLASS NOTES

PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE

FALL 2023 |

1

CLASS OF 2023 107

GRADUATES

$25,429,436

IN SCHOLARSHIP MONEY

51

97%

30%

PLANNING TO MA JOR IN STEM

The Irish Claddagh is a symbol befitting the cultural heritage, corporal works, and spiritual legacy of Catherine McAuley, foundress of the Sisters of Mercy.

Depicting a pair of hands holding a heart topped by a regal crown, the claddagh’s three elements form a kind of trinity. The heart represents hospitality and compassion. The hands—service and care. The crown—leadership and fidelity to one’s cause.

5 COLLEGIATE ATHLETES FROM THE CLASS OF 2023

2 | Mater Matters

674

LETTERS OF ACCEPTANCES TO 177 COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES

CLADDAGH AWARDS

In recognition of her outstanding academic and athletic achievements, the Excellence Medal for Highest Cumulative Achievement and the Scholar Athlete Award were presented to Marianne Cheely.

Caitlyn Gregitis Rowing Fairfield University

Caroline Szlachta Rowing Boston University

330

MERIT SCHOLARSHIPS (OF STUDENTS REPORTING)

ACADEMIC AND ATHLETIC EXCELLENCE

Mary Kate Gray Rowing Cornell University

5

GRADUATES COMMITTED TO COLLEGIATE ATHLETICS

COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES HAPPY OR VERY HAPPY WITH IN 19 STATES AND 1 FOREIGN COUNTRY THEIR COLLEGE CHOICE

Kerry McCormick Field Hockey Old Dominion University

Simone Waheed Track and Field Colby College

Merion Mercy Academy celebrates the ways in which these features similarly embody its students’ exceptional character and achievement.

The Heart of Mercy Award:

The Service Award:

Autumn Drake

Annemarie Conway

The Loyalty Award:

Kathryn Wert

COLLEGE CHOICES CLASS OF 2023 Mickayla Adams Drexel University

Grace Evelyn Flood Saint Joseph’s University

“It is only when we work together, with each

Isabel Anne Alemayehu University of Delaware

McKenna Leagh Foody University of Tennessee

other, and for each other that our true light

Raphaella Maura Autieri Drexel University

Olivia Wechsler Foran Fairfield University

Nora Keating Aylmer West Chester University of Pennsylvania

Annelise Elizabeth Fresta The Pennsylvania State University

Layoni Baldwin Drexel University Sylvia Jackson Barnes Mount Holyoke College Nyrie Zarouhie Bouloutian The Pennsylvania State University Jessica Nicole Brunetti West Chester University of Pennsylvania Frances Kelly Byrne West Virginia University Mackenzie Lee Rose Cassidy College of Charleston Marianne Patricia Cheely Princeton University Ashley Rose Ciampitti Loyola University Maryland Elizabeth McCall Ciminero The Pennsylvania State University Cara Catherine Comey The Catholic University of America Annemarie Grace Conway Auburn University Orlagh Marie Corr The University of Tampa

—from Cara Comey’s Graduation address

Holly Elizabeth Fusaro Saint Joseph’s University

Catherine Ashley McDonald Syracuse University

Grace Josephine Siorek University of Rhode Island

Ryan Katharine Grant East Carolina University

Anne Elizabeth McGovern The Catholic University of America

Chloe Cruice Steinman Fairfield University

Mary Katherine Gray Cornell University

Lily Patricia McMahon The Pennsylvania State University

Bree Olivia Stevenson Florida Atlantic University

Caitlyn Elizabeth Gregitis Fairfield University

Marin Elizabeth McPhillips The Pennsylvania State University

Skylar Ann Hagan University of Dayton

Annabelle Theresa Mirra St. John’s University

Helene Frances Stranick West Chester University of Pennsylvania

Onora Claire Healey College of the Holy Cross

Simone Dolores Neal Howard University

Margaret Ann Iannone University of Maryland

Mariel Elizabeth O’Leary Saint Joseph’s University

Makayla Johnson Arcadia University

Caroline Grace Olender The Pennsylvania State University

Katherine Helen Kaufmann West Chester University of Pennsylvania

Grace Olivia Owens The Pennsylvania State University

Charanpreet Kaur Drexel University Kamani Kiera Kegler University of Pittsburgh Dominique Keough The Pennsylvania State University

Caroline Joan Curcio Elon University

Kaia Jordan Keough West Chester University of Pennsylvania

Olivia Kitty Currier Villanova University

Jade Anyá Kirby Howard University

Olivia Rose DeLucca Loyola Marymount University

Kathryn Margaret Knapp Delaware County Community College

Lily Catherine Denn Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

shows.”

Cecilia Mai Lam University of Pennsylvania

Sophia Bei-Jiao DiRentis Drexel University

Joi Christina Lewis Undisclosed

Deirdre Kathleen Donaher Boston College

Dior Jabai Lucas St. John’s University

Ella Rose Donnelly The Catholic University of America

Mackenzie Tod Lyons The Pennsylvania State University

Emma Rita Dougherty Loyola University Maryland

Sarah Marie Maloney Dublin City University

Autumn Jaidyn Drake University of Michigan

Brynne Christine McBryan Elon University

Ti’Yan Marie Driggins Neumann University

Anna Clare McCabe Susquehanna University

Tess Catherine Ewing The Pennsylvania State University

Patricia Kathryn McCarthy The Pennsylvania State University

Rebecca Grace Fanelli Saint Joseph’s University

Kerry Elizabeth McCormick Old Dominion University

Audrey Michelle Ferdinand University of Pittsburgh

Madison Hurley McCormick Northeastern University

Madison Lena Owens Gwynedd Mercy University Shannon Mary Pagan The University of the Arts Evelyn Mary Paller Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts Malika M. Parmar Saint Joseph’s University Kelsey Marie Pearson Mississippi State University Brigid Ciarrai Pooler The University of Scranton Frances Kathryn Porreca Syracuse University Tessa Grace Purcell Drexel University Julia Grace Pyles Drexel University Kylie Elizabeth Rex The Pennsylvania State University Julia Maria Richardson College of Charleston Ava Rudi The Pennsylvania State University Akhirah Bint Sabree The Pennsylvania State University Hannah Grace Saraceno University of South Carolina Jessica Grace Schmidt Florida Atlantic University Zipporah Nasira Sills Neumann University

Mary Katherine Elizabeth Sullivan The Pennsylvania State University Caroline Anna Szlachta Boston University Mackenzie Taggart Florida Atlantic University Brynne Elyse Tomaszewski The Pennsylvania State University Mackenzie Maria Towers Fairfield University Charlie Trimbur West Chester University of Pennsylvania Isabella Grace Valenti The University of Tampa Nadia Solana Vaquer The Pennsylvania State University Abigail Joan Veasey Immaculata University Isabella Marie Hennessey Velazco Loyola University Maryland Giada Christina Viola The Pennsylvania State University Alicia Runa Nishimura Vong University of Miami Diana Thuy Vy Vu Case Western Reserve University Simone Alexandria Waheed Colby College Kathryn Diane Wert Villanova University Morgan Elizabeth Williamson University of South Carolina Sara Ann Wimmer The Pennsylvania State University Morgan Jean Wolfe The Pennsylvania State University Lehan Yuan Colby College Zhangaibei Zou University of Delaware

FALL 2023 |

3

BLUE AND GOLD UPDATES ACADEMICS MMA Impresses at STEM Competition Merion Mercy took first and second place at a High School SAP Simulation at West Chester University. The STEM competition simulates a virtual market and uses SAP software to manage a supply chain. Each participant took on a particular role in the company throughout the simulation.

A proud STEAM club team won an SAP competition at West Chester University.

All 15 students from MMA performed exceptionally, including first place winners (members of the Class of 2025 Abigail Adamczyk, Siena Sandoz, Emily Powel, and Maggie Dowd), and second place winners (Lauren McCormick ’25, Lindsey Lyons ’25, Ryan Master ’24, and Sameeha Ershad ’24). Math teacher Deanna Crawford and Science teacher and STEAM Club moderator Benjamin York accompanied the girls, who competed against teams from Academy of Notre Dame de Namur and String Theory.

College Board Recognizes Five Merion Mercy Students Five Merion Mercy Academy students were among the 62,000 students from across the country to earn academic honors from the College Board’s 2022 National Recognition Programs. Ashley Gomes ’24, Hailey Hendricks ’24, Jonae Thomas ’24 and Layoni Baldwin ’23 received the National African American Recognition Award, and Sophia Taberne ’24 earned the National Hispanic Recognition Award.

These young women excelled on their standardized tests or AP exams and in their classroom performance. Eligible students are invited to apply during their sophomore or junior year, and are awarded at the beginning of the next school year.

Diocesan Scholars Program Selects Four Merion Mercy Students Sponsored by the Archdiocese of Philadelphia’s Office of Catholic Education, the Diocesan Scholars Program honors high school students who excel academically and who would benefit from beginning college work during their senior year.

In the spring of junior year, a select number of high-performing students at Merion Mercy Academy are nominated by the school to participate in the program. Each scholar selected is permitted to take, free of charge, two college courses each semester of their senior year on the campus of one of 12 local Catholic colleges or universities. Scholars complete the remainder of their roster with regular courses at MMA. For the 2023-24 school year, the following Merion Mercy students were accepted into the program: • Hailey Hendricks, Chestnut Hill College • Molly Romano, Villanova University

4 | Mater Matters

Kylie Rex and Mary Kate Gray, pictured with Head of School Marianne Grace, were recognized at the Archdiocese’s Academic Honors Convocation. Not pictured: Marianne Cheely.

Archdiocese of Philadelphia Honors Three MMA Seniors

Front to back: Molly Romano, Hailey Hendricks, Maria Shapson and Audrey Miraglia were named Diocesan Scholars.

• Maria Shapson, Saint Joseph’s University • Audrey Miraglia, Cabrini University

Each May, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia honors distinguished scholars from 30 Archdiocesan and private Catholic secondary schools throughout the five-county region during its annual Academic Honors Convocation. In 2023, three Merion Mercy Academy seniors were among the 130 recipients: Marianne Cheely, Mary Kate Gray, and Kylie Rex. The students all rank in the top 3% of their senior class according to their cumulative ranking at the end of the first semester of their senior year.

BLUE AND GOLD UPDATES ACADEMICS Faculty and Staff Recognition and Accomplishments Caitlin Mattera ’10, an alumna and English teacher at Merion Mercy, received a University of Chicago Outstanding Educator Award.

A Merion Mercy educator since 2015, Mattera received a commemorative award, certificate, and letter that includes details of her nomination by Mira Tensuan-Eli ’22, a student at UChicago. In response to the recognition, Mattera said, "I feel honored to receive the award and to be recognized for my work by my students. At its best, teaching is a collaborative effort: I love working with students who encourage me to learn more, work harder, and dream bigger. In my eight years at Merion, I’ve been lucky to work with many thoughtful, engaged students who have made me a better teacher."

Each year, newly admitted UChicago students have the opportunity to reflect on their time in school and nominate an educator who played a significant role in their education, made a positive impact in their lives, and whose influence has brought them to where they are today.

Philip Vinogradov, Merion Mercy Academy’s Director of Innovation, Teaching and Learning, was selected for Horn Entrepreneurship’s Accelerating Innovation in Education Fellowship for the 2023-2024 academic year. Designed for school leaders, this one-year program through the University of Delaware is aimed at promoting a culture of innovation and experimentation in K-12 education. As a small, diverse cohort, fellows focus on how to utilize foundational building blocks to establish a school culture that encourages persistent challenges to the status quo and enables experimentation to discover increasingly better ways to serve the needs of students.

Vinogradov was also selected for the prestigious Google Champion Symposium, which continues his journey as a Google Certified Innovator. These symposiums aim to reignite global education leadership cohorts, providing a platform to explore innovative approaches to teaching and learning.

Congratulations to Merion Mercy Science teacher Dr. Lizzie Oakley who earned her PhD in Anthropology from the University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Oakley also holds a BA and MS in Anthropology and Classical Studies from Indiana University Bloomington.

DID YOU KNOW? 80% of Merion Mercy faculty hold an advanced degree.

Paul Clementi Named Dean of Students Recognizing his exceptional leadership, Merion Mercy Academy named Paul Clementi, JD, P ’16 as Dean of Students. Head of School Marianne Grace said, “With his experience, demeanor, and dedication to MMA, Paul has been a tremendous asset and we are blessed to have him in this role.”

Clementi began teaching social studies at Merion Mercy in 2008 and previously led the school’s signature Mock Trial team and Rho Kappa National Social Studies Honor Society Chapter. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Villanova University, earned his J.D. from Seton Hall Law School and began his Ed.D. at Gwynedd Mercy University last fall.

Expressing gratitude for the opportunity, Clementi said, “Merion Mercy has been an integral part of my professional and personal life over the past 15 years. I look forward to preserving beloved Merion Mercy traditions while preparing our students for the future."

Gold Medalist Rating for MMA’s Literary Magazine The 2022 issue of Merion Mercy Academy’s Image Explosion was recognized with the Pennsylvania School Press Association’s Gold Medalist rating—the highest award for literary magazines outside of the All-State Awards. Produced every year since 1996, Image Explosion elicits a wide variety of student talent, from the written word to art, and represents all grade levels. It is compiled by students who review each submission individually without knowing the artist or writer’s identity. The work is compiled entirely during after-school sessions.

Image Explosion had previously received a Gold Medalist rating from 2016-2019 and last won the AllState Award in 2013.

English teachers Caitlin Mattera and Katie Cho served as staff moderators for last year’s publication on which a dozen students were involved.

FALL 2023 |

5

BLUE AND GOLD UPDATES STUDENT LIFE ACADEMICS CONTINUED

Beloved Traditions: A Photo Gallery

It’s not Weenie Roast without a couple hot dogs: Abigail Habteslase ’25 and Eve Laurito ’25.

Seniors celebrate Carol Night in the Convent Chapel.

Front row: Dean of Students Paul Clementi, Mairead McGill '25, Eve Laurito '25, Sylvia Barnes '23, Justine Weng '25 Middle row: Olivia Foran '23, Cara Comey '23, Simone Waheed '23 Back row: Ashley Ciampitti '23, Catherine McDonald '23, Morgan Wolfe '23 Not pictured: Kiera Everly '24, Hailey Hendricks '24, Makayla Johnson '23

Mock Trial Team Continues its Winning Ways

Front: Mickayla Adams, Brynne Tomaszewski, Bree Stevenson, Kylie Rex, and Hannah Saraceno pose with their fathers at the Father/Father-Figure Dinner Dance.

Merion Mercy Academy’s Gold Mock Trial team again won the Delaware County District Championship. In the annual competition run by the Pennsylvania Bar Association, the team went undefeated in the preliminary rounds and advanced to district playoffs, where they beat the Academy of Notre Dame de Namur. This is the 10th year in a row that Merion Mercy has been either co-champion or champion of Delaware County.

Earlier in the season, the Gold team competed at the University of Pennsylvania Mock Trial competition where Sylvia Barnes ’23 won a top attorney award and Hailey Hendricks ’24 won a best witness award. Out of over 420 competitors, only 12 attorney and witness awards were presented.

6 | Mater Matters

Chloe Steinman ’23, Catherine McDonald ’23, and Patricia McCarthy ’23 represent on college Ella Cait Lisowski ’24, Natalie Ferdinand ’24, and skirt day when seniors paint their uniform skirts with the name or logo Emily Oliver ’24 pose with historical figures in the of their chosen college or university. Constitution Center during Junior/Senior Prom.

BLUE AND GOLD UPDATES STUDENT LIFE

Red, Green and Jingle Day is a beloved tradition for welcoming in the Christmas season.

Sarah Maloney ’23, Tess Purcell ’23, Jada Boose ’24, and Casey Fosbenner ’24 celebrate Mission Week.

The Women for Life and Love Club led the May Processions to honor Mary.

Angela McCarthy and Patricia McCarthy ’23 share a moment during the Senior Mother/Mother-Figure Tea

Brains and beauty at the Junior/Senior prom: Christine Link ’24, Jacklyn Dang ’24, Katrina Dominiski ’24, Kaitlyn Quinn ’24, Cecilia Lam ’23, Shannon Pagan ’23, and Autumn Drake ’23.

FALL 2023 |

7

BLUE AND GOLD UPDATES MISSION, MINISTRY, AND BELONGING

Sister Danielle Gagnon, RSM

Sister Mandy Carrier, RSM

Sisters in Mission and Ministry This past school year saw Sister Danielle Gagnon, RSM, formerly Campus Minister, promoted to Director of Mission, Ministry, and Belonging.

Joining her department as the new Campus Minister is Sister Mandy Carrier, RSM.

Hair ribbons are a time-honored tradition on Mercy Day.

Celebrating Mercy Day 2022 Alumna Named New DEIB Director In fall 2023, Maya Johnson ’12 returned to her alma mater as the school's new Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging.

The DEIB director is part of the Mission, Ministry, and Belonging team.

Each year, on September 24, Mercy schools around the globe recognize Mercy Day, the opening of Catherine McAuley’s first "House of Mercy" in 1827 in Dublin, Ireland. This year, Mercy Education—of which Merion Mercy is a member—marked Mercy Day and its milestone five-year anniversary by inviting Mercy schools to “celebrate with service” and accrue, collectively, five years of service across its 55 schools—43,800 hours altogether.

After service activities, Mass and a special luncheon, Mercy Day at Merion Mercy concluded with nine alumnae speakers whose careers relate to the Sisters of Mercy’s Critical Concerns: Earth, Immigration, Nonviolence, Racism and Women. See page 28 for more about our alumnae participants.

MMA Gains Two New Mercy Associates In May, at a covenant ceremony during Mass, Head of School Mrs. Marianne Grace and Academic Success Coordinator Ms. Alison Kelly ’99 were officially recognized as Mercy Associates.

According to the Sisters of Mercy website, “Mercy Associates are women and men who respond to the Gospel invitation of Jesus, and the example of Catherine McAuley, to minister to God’s children who are experiencing poverty, illness, or lack of education by living out the spiritual and corporal works of Mercy.” While connected to the Sisters of Mercy, Associates come from many different faith traditions. They do not take vows, but work to extend the presence of Mercy through prayer, solidarity, and volunteer projects.

There are more than 3,000 Mercy Associates and the process is generally about a year.

Throughout the years there have been several faculty and staff members at Merion Mercy who have been Associates. Currently, they include Dean of Students, Mr. Paul Clementi, and Mary Ann Danovich, Master Schedule and Data Manager.

Sister Danielle Gagnon, RSM served as a sponsor and mentor for Alison Kelly ’99, while Marianne Grace was sponsored and mentored

by Sister Anna Saltzman, RSM.

8 | Mater Matters

BLUE AND GOLD UPDATES MISSION, MINISTRY, AND BELONGING Student Diversity Leadership Conference Participants Bring Lessons Home to MMA Sponsored by the National Association of Independent Schools, the Student Diversity Leadership Conference is a multiracial, multicultural gathering of high school student leaders from across the U.S. and abroad that focuses on self-reflecting, forming allies, and building community. Participating students develop cross-cultural communication skills, design effective strategies for social justice practice through dialogue and the arts, and learn the foundations of allyship and networking principles. Held in San Antonio, TX, with the theme “We the People: Leveraging Our Community to Preserve our Humanity,” the November 2022 conference included Merion Mercy Academy students Ti’Yan Driggins ’23, Sylvia Barnes ’23, Jonae Thomas ’24, Lauren Lindsay ’24, Autumn Drake ’23, and Shannon Pagan ’23.

SDLC participants Ti’Yan Driggins ’23, Sylvia Barnes ’23, Jonae Thomas ’24, During a Weekly Reset in January, MMA’s SDLC participants shared Lauren Lindsay ’24, Autumn Drake ’23, and Shannon Pagan ’23. the experience with their classmates. Sylvia Barnes noted that SDLC is ultimately about “coming together to make the world a better place, and supporting each other.” Lauren Lindsay added, “Everyday we are living our lives from the ’I’ perspective. SDLC helped us to focus on what I can do as an individual that can contribute to our community.”

Mission Week Supports MGEP Organized by Student Council, Merion Mercy’s annual Mission Week is one of the school’s largest fundraising opportunities for the Mercy Girl Effect Project (MGEP). This year’s “School in a Box” provided school supplies to students and teachers in the Mukuru slums in Nairobi, Kenya. StuCo President Kathryn Wert ’23 explained, “Through fun, mission-driven events and activities we educate the student body about MGEP, raise money for the project, and boost school spirit all while living out our school’s motto to ’live mercy and seek justice.’”

Onora Healey ’23, Kerry McCormick ’23, Kathryn Wert ’23 and Head of School Marianne Grace present the Mercy Girl Effect Project with a check for $11,000.

Throughout the year, in addition to Mission Week, the MGEP was supported by proceeds from the Back to School Mixer, Harvest Moon dance, Christmas and Galentine’s movie nights, Pack the Cave, Freddy’s Food Night Out, and Candy Grams sale. This year, $11,000 was raised for the project.

Women for Life and Love Participate in Fall Respect Life Rally In October 2022, 18 students from Merion Mercy’s Women for Life and Love Club attended the Fall Respect Life Rally, run by the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. A Mass was celebrated with 200 students from Archdiocesan and private Catholic secondary schools throughout the five-county region. Prior to Mass, students participated in a keynote and related breakout sessions.

Women for Life & Love is MMA’s pro-life club, grounded in our Catholic belief in the sanctity of all human life and our Mercy core value of “being a voice for dignity and respect.”

During Mass at the Fall Respect Life Rally, Simone Waheed ’23 had the honor of being part of the homily with Archbishop Pérez.

FALL 2023 |

9

BLUE AND GOLD UPDATES ARTS Arts Festival Honors Alumna and Celebrates Students’ Talent and Creativity Each spring, the Annual Showcase of the Fine Arts and Performing Arts honors and appreciates the extraordinary talent and creativity that exists within the Merion Mercy community. This year, on what would have marked her 70th reunion, Merion Mercy honored one esteemed alumna in particular: the late Mrs. Frances M. Maguire ’53. A generous donation from Mrs. Maguire and her husband Jim was instrumental in establishing MMA’s Art & Design Center, which bears her name. They also fund the Maguire Scholars program, which has made a Merion education possible for many students through the years.

Raquel Sampson ’25 proudly displays her art during the 2023 Arts Festival.

With Mrs. Maguire’s daughter Megan Maguire in attendance, Betsy Joyce Bracken ’53, a loyal alumna and classmate of Mrs. Maguire, made remarks in recognition of her friend “Frannie.” She said, “Through her unwavering dedication to the arts and her commitment to empowering students, she has created a lasting legacy, and we are fortunate to count her as ’one of ours.’”

In addition to recognizing Mrs. Maguire, the Arts Festival provided an opportunity to view MMA students’ fine arts work throughout the building. The annual event also featured the official induction of 56 girls into the National Art and/or Tri-M Music Honor Societies.

The evening concluded with a showcase featuring 12 performing arts students.

Seen with Lucy Hatfield ’24 and Shannon Pagan ’23, Betsy Joyce Bracken ’53 and Megan Maguire were honored guests at this year’s Arts Festival.

MMMT Brings Convent Stage to Life

Currier Advances to States in Poetry Out Loud In November, Merion Mercy Music Theater returned to the Convent Auditorium for its fall production of Peter and the Starcatcher. Exploring how a young orphan with no name ultimately became Peter Pan. this wildly imaginative show burst at the seams with delightful characters, witty dialogue and ingenious use of stage magic.

Based on Roald Dahl’s book of the same name, James and the Giant Peach—MMMT’s spring production—was a whimsical and magical journey of one boy out to change his life and find a real family. A giant peach and human-sized insects delighted the show’s audience.

Fosbenner Places 2nd in Philadelphia Shakespeare Competition Casey Fosbenner ’24 placed 2nd and was awarded a $1,000 scholarship in the Philadelphia Shakespeare Competition. The competition included participants from nine area schools.

10 | Mater Matters

For the second year in a row, senior Olivia “Ollie” Currier took first place in Philadelphia’s Poetry Out Loud 2023 regional competition, besting participants from seven high schools across southeastern PA. This is the third year that she has represented Merion Mercy Academy in the competition.

Poetry Out Loud is a national poetry recitation contest for high school students sponsored by the National Endowment for the Arts and the Poetry Foundation.

BLUE AND GOLD UPDATES ATHLETICS 2022-2023 School Year in Review: • A successful fall sports season culminated in nine AACA All Stars, three league medals, two district medals, and a state championship.

• All Star recognition was granted to Cross Country (First Team - Marianne Cheely ’23), Field Hockey (First Team: Grace Flood ’23, Kerry McCormick ’23; Second Team: Molly Mangano ’24, Molly Romano ’24), Soccer (Second Team: Lily Denn ’23), Tennis (Ashley Gomes ’24, Sofiia Berestetska ’24), and Volleyball (First Team: Molly Mishinkash ’24).

• Our crew team finished 35th at the Head of the Charles in October, in the top five of the scholastic teams.

• Marianne Cheely ’23 placed second at the Cross Country AACA league meet, earning an AACA All Star spot and recognition in being the highest Merion finisher at AACA Champs in 20 years.

• Several swimmers qualified for the PIAA state swim meet. Mia Longo ’24 won a silver medal at the AACA league swim meet in the 100 back.

• At the AACA league track meet, the team finished fourth out of seven teams, bringing home a combined 17 medals and ribbons.

• A V4+ boat competed at Youth Nationals in Sarasota, FL. The same boat with Caroline Cawley ’25, Maggie Judge ’25, Elle Kilgannon ’24, Sam Hendrzak ’25, and Jane Staples ’25 took third place at the USRowing Mid-Atlantic Youth Championship.

Gray Recognized for Athletic and Academic Achievements

Mary Kate Gray ’23 was honored by the Catholic Philopatrian Literary Institute (The Philo) with its Outstanding Achievement Award. The organization provides the winner with a $1,000 scholarship and a plaque for the awardee and their school.

Mary Kate was selected from among rowing team members from Catholic high schools in and around the Philadelphia area who participated in the 2022 Stotesbury Cup Regatta. Students of Catholic faith, who have excelled in rowing, scholastics, and demonstrate a spirit of service, were eligible to apply.

Director of Athletics Shannon Fisher and Head of School Marianne Grace pose with State Tennis Champions Sofiia Berestetska ’24 and Ashley Gomes ’24.

Tennis Team Enjoys Exceptional Season Merion Mercy Academy’s tennis team (a.k.a. “Mennis”) qualified for the PIAA District 1 2A team tournament as the second seed. In the opening round they bested Delaware County Christian School, sending MMA to the finals where they ultimately dropped 2-3 to Lower Moreland. Merion’s last visit to the team tournament was 1997—25 years ago!

While the team as a whole performed well this year, Sofiia Berestetska ’24 and Ashley Gomes ’24 pulled out all the stops to bring Merion Mercy Academy its first PIAA 2A state doubles tournament title. After winning District 1 2A, the girls won all four of their matches at the state tournament in straight sets. Gomes and Berestetska both played singles throughout the regular season, and were undefeated at first singles and second singles, respectively.

In addition to The Philo award, Mary Kate— who also played varsity basketball—was presented with Merion Mercy’s Senior Athlete Award for demonstrating unwavering dedication and leadership throughout her time at MMA. She was also inducted into the exclusive Blue and Gold Club, reserved for elite MMA athletes who have made an indelible mark on their respective sports.

Mary Kate is now rowing at Cornell University.

FALL 2023 |

11

4,700 Mile Journey LEADS TO PODIUM AT PIAA STATE TENNIS TOURNAMENT On February, 24, 2022, Americans looked on in horror as Russia invaded Ukraine in a major escalation of the ongoing RussoUkrainian War. Our television and computer screens were filled with images of destroyed hospitals and schools, fleeing refugees at the borders, and Ukrainian soldiers defending their country from Russian assaults. While scenes from the conflict were painful to watch, for most of us the war remained far removed from our daily lives.

Sixteen-year-old Sofiia Berestetska ’24 was not so lucky. Living near the capital of Kyiv with her parents Alex and Halyna, she recalls “sheltering in the basement and listening to the explosions while trying to sleep and praying that nothing would happen to us.” A missile strike on the street in front of their building convinced her mother it was time to leave the country.

12 | Mater Matters

On March 1, Sofiia and Halyna fled to Poland, where more than five million other Ukranians sought refuge. It was a journey she’ll never forget. “There were so many people running and screaming.

It was chaos as everyone tried to push their way onto the train. At one point my mother and I became separated. She was on the train while I was stuck outside. I saw fierce determination in her eyes to get me inside with her.” Having no time to tell her father goodbye, Sofia remembers seeing him in tears on the platform watching them leave.

The train ride to Poland would take eight hours with a mass of people fighting for limited space. “There were eight of us in a tiny room with two small beds. We sat four to a bed, while dozens of people stood in the corridors. There was nowhere to sleep and we had nothing to eat.” After the train ride and two long bus trips,

Sofiia and her mother eventually arrived in Warsaw where they stayed for three months while waiting for the paperwork that would allow them to join her sister in the United States. She says, “The day I received my visa, I cried with happiness.”

It was early June 2022 when Sofiia and Halyna arrived in Philadelphia where they were welcomed with open arms by Sofiia’s sister Ksenia and Ksenia’s husband Michael Power. “It had been my dream to have Sofiia in America with me,” says Ksenia, who first came to the U.S. to play tennis as an undergraduate at the University of Akron. She and Michael met during their doctoral studies at Temple University, where Ksenia is an assistant professor of Kinesiology.

As a new school year approached for Sofiia, her family considered the options. Concerned for her adjustment to an American education, they decided on a private school where she would receive more personalized attention. As Michael’s sister Meghan was a 2005 Merion Mercy Academy graduate, MMA rose to the top of the list.

In addition to an impressive education, what Sofiia has found here is kindness among her classmates. “Everyone shares their smiles and they help you. It is easy to make friends.”

The teachers have been equally welcoming. Sofiia believes, “Every teacher is the best!” She notes how different school is here as compared to Ukraine. “There, it was only learning. There were none of the experiences I’ve had at Merion Mercy. There were no sports or other activities.”

Welcoming the opportunity to become involved outside of the classroom, Sofiia sought out Merion Mercy’s tennis team.

Unbeknownst to then-coach Bob Campbell or Director of Athletics Shannon Fisher, this new Ukrainian student was not your average player. Fisher says, “Sofiia was definitely a surprise and has made a significant impact on our tennis program. She is an incredibly skilled and naturally talented competitor. We are so glad to have her here as a part of the Merion community.”

Ashley Gomes and Sofiia Berestetska take the podium at the State Tennis Championship.

When asked what’s next for her, Sofiia explains that she intends to stay in the United States. “I want to compete in tennis at the Division I level in college,” she says, adding, “American students have both sports and studies. It’s wonderful.”

Director of External Relations and former Director of Admissions Eileen Daly Killeen ’68 knows she will be quite welcome wherever she goes. “Sofiia’s been a gift every moment since she’s been here.”

For Sofiia, the greatest gift has been her family. “I wouldn’t be here without them, and I am forever grateful for the sacrifices they have made.”

Having played since she was five years old, upon arriving in this country, one of the first things Sofiia did was to find a place to train so that when fall sports began she was wellprepared to join the Merion Mercy team. After a successful regular season, in late October 2022, Sofiia and her doubles partner Ashley Gomes ’24 won the District 1 2A championship. The PIAA 2A state doubles tournament followed and the duo won all four of their matches in straight sets, bringing home the state title for the first time in Merion Mercy’s history.

In addition to her talents on the tennis court, Sofiia is an accomplished pianist.

FALL 2023 |

13

A TIMELESS AND ETERNAL CIRCLE OF MERCY Through the Years While we don’t know the year that Mater Misericordiae Academy’s class ring was first introduced, we do know that as early as 1950, news of its arrival was printed in the Ricordia. Back then, the ring was given to seniors with a reminder of all that it stood for: “One who wears the ring pledges herself to cherish the school’s ideals, uphold her standards and prove worthy of her fair name.”

CLASS OF 1955

“A Senior looks at her gold ring and sees the Mercy shield that will remind her that her most important role in life is to give mercy. She is to be a soldier of mercy to conquer the hearts of all who meet her. Behind the shield, the Blessed Mother rests as an image for her to imitate in every way.” CLASS OF 1963

Julia Richter, Emma Pallante, and Maggie Weidenborner

According to the Meriannal, in 1955, each ring was tied to a blue and gold ribbon. All the ribbon ends were placed in the hand of the Child Jesus in the Madonna statue at the main entrance. As Sister Gertrude Marie read the name on a ribbon, that senior came forward to have her class ring placed on the fourth finger of her right hand. “Throughout the day, the seniors were besieged by underclassmen who claimed the privilege of turning the new rings and making a wish.” The class year dictated the number of turns required.

In 1961, a new tradition began with a Ring Dinner on the day of the Maternity of Our Lady in October, which was chosen so that “Mary could bless the seniors throughout their lives.” Records show that the ring was also slightly changed that year. “The familiar blue stone with the school shield remains, but the words Mater Misericordiae Academy were inscribed around the stone.”

At some point in the decades that followed, the Blessing of the Rings became an occasion for Merion Mercy juniors with Mass and a ceremony held in the spring. The tradition of turning the rings called for three wishes: one for the person turning the ring, one for the classmate wearing the ring, and one wish for our school.

2023’s Junior Retreat and Ring Night In her remarks at 2023’s Junior Retreat on the morning of Ring Night, Sally McGovern ’89, assistant to Counseling and Summer Programs, recalled as a Merion Mercy student feeling part of something bigger than herself. She told the girls: “You are a part of something we call sisterhood.

Sometimes that word is hard to understand or feel, but what it means is that you are an integral part of a community that celebrates each and every one of its members and whose members support and build each other up. The sisterhood works together for good, and for helping each of you to be your best self. This sisterhood unites us when times are difficult and creates time for celebration when times are good. ”

Dillan Grimes, Emma McLaughlin, Emily Kallmeyere, Elle Kilgannon, Jessica Glancey, and Keira Vaughan.

Also sharing remarks at the Junior Retreat was Tasia Brice ’24 who spoke of the many women in her life. As the oldest of four girls, she “appreciated the nurturing environment and is grateful to be raised looking up to these women.” At Merion Mercy, she has found a sisterhood that provides that same type of joy and support: “This sisterhood means so much to me because it was chosen. We chose each other. After graduating we will always be reminded that we have sisters who love us all across the world and can look down at our ring fingers to remember this connection.”

During the Ring Mass, Emily Oliver ’24 shared a reflection in which she recalled the mystery of the Circle of Mercy, which she now understands more fully: “The Circle of Mercy isn’t a ’what,’ it’s a ’who.’ And we are the who. We created our very own Circle of Mercy, united by our sisterhood and the unique experiences we all share together.”

The Ring Mass ceremony concluded with this blessing: These class rings symbolize the connection each student has to the Merion Mercy Academy sisterhood, and the commitment to living mercy and seeking justice that the class of 2024 has cultivated.

14 | Mater Matters

SIP ’N BID: BELIEVE IN THE MAGIC WE APPRECIATE OUR 2022 SPONSORS: Diamond Merion Mercy Academy Board of Trustees Sapphire The Connelly Foundation Nicole ’91 and Jake Elguicze, P’22, ’24 Miriam ’78 and Brian O’Neill, P’07, ’09, ’16 Platinum Bryan and Joan Carter, P’25 and The Gesu School Jim and Debbie Gaffney, P’00, ’02, ’04 and Goshen Mechanical Scott and Margaret Avellino, P’22 and Revivalist Spirits Leslie ’78 and Pat Ryan, P’05 and Ryan’s Pub

James Finney, P’20, Josele Finney, P’20, Mary Zsembik, P’20, Event Chairs Jake and Nicole Perretta Marissa Finney ’20, Barbara Zsembik ’20, and Bill Zsembik, P’20 Elguicze ’91, P’22, ’24

On November 19, 2022, Merion Mercy Academy celebrated its 46th annual Sip ’n Bid, the school’s largest social fundraiser of the year. With the theme “Believe in the Magic,” the evening featured catering by “Feast Your Eyes,” led by Female Chef of the Year Lynn Buono; entertainment by the Merion Handbell Choir; the emcee talents of alumna and PHL17 meteorologist Monica Tassoni Cryan ’06; plus hundreds of silent and live auction items including Merion Mercy spirit gear, home items, golf experiences, sports packages and memorabilia, and much more.

Gold Francis and Renee Scullin P’22 and Event Strategy Group Marianne and Ron Grace, P’04 Christopher and Linda Hillman, P’23 and Hillman Consulting Jane Massey Licata, P’08 Love Money Purpose Lou and Lisa Marchese, P’14, ’15 and Marchese Opticians MMA Alumnae Family 2020 Shannon and Ishan Hall, P’24, ’26 and Quellus Sisters of Mercy Silver Jessica Andrews ’02 Real Estate Balfour Benari Jewelers Lisa and John Figge, P’25 Lambert & Associates Licata & Tyrrell, PC Madden & Tufano Neumann University Steadfast Entities, LCC Waldron Mercy Academy

Nearly 230 alumnae, current and former parents, faculty, staff and friends enjoyed the festivities, which raised over $100,000. Merion Mercy students and teachers are the direct beneficiaries of the evening as all funds raised are put to immediate use to support important updates and improvements throughout the school.

Recognizing the generosity of the MMA community, Head of School Marianne Grace thanked the event’s many volunteers. “It takes countless hours of hard work and extraordinary effort to accomplish the goals of this spectacular evening. The commitment of our volunteers does not go unnoticed and is greatly appreciated,” she said.

PARENT COMMITTEE CHAIRS EVENT CHAIRS:

Jake and Nicole Perretta Elguicze ’91, P’22, ’24

SILENT AUCTION:

Mary Zsembik, P’20

SPONSORSHIPS:

Ann Tufano, P’26

DECOR:

Maggie Grimes, P’21, ’24

STAGING:

Shannon Hall, P’24, ’26

STUDENT RAFFLE:

Eileen Kallmeyer, P’24, ’26

SPORTS BASKETS:

Stella Denn, P’21, ’23

NEIGHBORHOOD BASKETS:

Marie Pat Romano, P’20, ’24

RESERVATIONS:

Linda Dowd, P’25, Lisa Figge, P’25

MOBILE AUCTION DATA:

Meg Grady, P’19, ’20

Family and Friends Lisa ’78 and Michael Farrell, P’13 Louis and Tanya Grandizio, P’25 Jones Turf Management Eileen and Chris Kallmeyer, P’24, ’26 T.J. and Amy Lynch, P ’25 McCloskey Financial Norman Carpet One Al and Erin Schmidt, P’25 Shamrock Food Distribution

S AV E T H E DAT E

S P’nBID 2023

Merion Mercy Academy

November 18, 2023 FALL 2023 |

15

FASHION SHOW ENTERTAINS AND RAISES FUNDS In April, 350 students, mothers, mother figures, alumnae and friends of Merion Mercy attended the school’s Fashion Show and Dinner at Springfield Country Club. With the theme “Starry Night,” the annual event’s main attraction was a runway show with seniors modeling fashions by Faherty, La Bella Moda, Lilly Pulitzer, and Louella. Margaret Getty Spross ’08, Senior Associate of Textile and Trim Research and Innovation at Lilly Pulitzer, served as emcee.

Approximately $10,000 was raised through event tickets and raffle sales. The proceeds directly benefit Merion girls, enhancing the entire student experience, from academics to extracurriculars to sisterhood days.

Mary Miller Fresta ’87, P’16, ’19, ’23 and Amy Steinman, P’23 served as chairs with committee members Mary Zsembik P’20, Annabelle Mirra P’23, and Jenn Marshall Valenti ’87, P’23.

Dior Lucas ’23, Jade Kirby ’23, and Kamani Kegler ’23

Save the Date

Ashley Ciampitti ’23 and Isabella Hennessey Velazco ’23

Plan to join us for next year’s fashion show: March 10, 2024

A group of models from the Class of 2023 take a final bow.

16 | Mater Matters

Fashion Show Chairs Mary Miller Fresta ’87, P’16, ’19, ’23 and Amy Steinman, P’23

Isabella Valenti ’23, Simone Waheed ’23 and Mary Kate Sullivan ’23

FEATURE STORY

Academic Excellence and Transformative Learning Academic Excellence and Transformative Learning is one of the pillars of Merion Mercy Academy’s strategic plan. In it, we are called to: Build upon MMA’s strong academic foundation to further expand our leading, innovative, and studentcentered academic program.

Further defined, these indicators will ensure Merion Mercy Academy’s academic success for years to come: • Leading: Nurturing a culture of lifelong learning through the exploration of best instructional practices, and the development of a relevant and responsive curriculum.

• Innovative: A vigorous academic experience that develops educational courage through the real world application of critical thinking, collaboration, and creation of products or solutions for an authentic audience.

• Student-Centered: A program that develops the learners capacity for self advocacy and agency, to make important decisions in guiding their learning. This includes nurturing emotional intelligence, personal accountability, and a holistic approach that supports a healthy synergy between mind, body, and spirit.’

A great deal of progress has been made in the past year, including, most notably, the launch of our Diploma with Distinction program.

Diploma with Distinction The Diploma with Distinction “supports and recognizes transformative, personalized learning,” explains Head of School Marianne Grace. The program encourages students to build confidence by scaffolding and coordinating the skills they develop in core courses (e.g., writing, speaking, organization, analysis) into specific, interdisciplinary concentrations. These concentrations bridge classroom learning with authentic, purposeful actions within Merion and as part of our larger community.

Those pursuing the Diploma with Distinction are given flexibility and choices to uncover their passions while requiring them to relate their projects to the mission of the school: living mercy and seeking justice as young people who create change in our school and the world. Leading the efforts behind the program is Philip Vinogradov, MMA’s Director of Innovation, Teaching and Learning. He explains how the elective program will work for the inaugural group of 65 juniors and seniors in fall 2023: “To pursue a Diploma with Distinction, students will first choose a concentration: Sustainability, Leadership and Communication, Law and Justice, or Arts and Culture. They will then complete program requirements, which include a selection of specific courses, co-curricular activities, service requirements, and a capstone project or internship, followed by participation in a symposium.”

Philip Vinogradov, Director of Innovation, Teaching and Learning and coordinator of the Diploma with Distinction program.

AN INVITATION TO ALUMNAE There are a number of opportunities throughout the year to offer career support for our current students, including being a mentor for the Diploma of Distinction. If you are interested in being included in a list of alumnae resources for our students, please join our Alumnae Career Connection found at merion-mercy.com/alumnae and remember to join the Merion Mercy Alumnae group on LinkedIn.

FALL 2023 |

17

Academic Excellence and Transformative Learning An outcome of the Diploma with Distinction will be the curation of a digital portfolio with exemplar pieces of work or evidence for each requirement, and a reflection on how that piece of work or experience exemplifies one or more of the Mercy core values: Educational Courage, Principled Leadership, Compelled by Mercy, Inspired by Faith, and A Voice for Dignity and Respect.

“We are really excited about this signature program,” says Vinogradov, who led a team of faculty from all content areas through a seven-month research and design process. “It builds upon Merion Mercy’s value proposition, puts mission in action, and delivers lasting student impact.”

Josephine Doherty ’25 is in the inaugural class of Diploma with Distinction candidates.

In the dynamic world of education, teachers and school administrators are constantly seeking opportunities to enhance their skills and knowledge. Professional Learning Communities are one such way to accomplish this goal.

Professional Learning Communities Vinogradov is particularly passionate about ensuring Merion Mercy faculty are the very best they can be. With the goal of building on MMA’s already strong foundation, in fall 2022, he introduced teachers to Professional Learning Communities (PLCs). He explains, “PLCs allow faculty to dive deeply into action research on an instructional practice related to the school’s mission and educational philosophy.”

Design

Explore

Teach

Reflect

Share

The 2022 topics all focused on partnering with students to understand where they are, and provide each learner with the resources and tools to succeed. Teachers were invited to choose the topic that most resonated with them: • Making Thinking Visible: Empowering Student Engagement and Ownership of the Learning Process.

• Psychologically Safe Classroom: Building Complex and Conscious Spaces in Our Classrooms.

• Scaffolding and Differentiation of Assignments and Assessments - Learning Accommodation Design and Implementation.

After the first year, Vinogradov led faculty in reflecting on the PLC experiences as they prepared and shared their learning journeys with each other. Faculty articulated that they appreciated the time to focus deeply on a specific topic, and that the process of peer observation and feedback was inspiring and affirming. The faculty asked for more frequent touchpoints for their PLC groups in the coming year, and that has been worked into monthly schedules.

Refine

Faculty development doesn’t end with professional learning communities. Timely conversations are another important aspect of ensuring Merion Mercy Academy remains on the cutting edge of education.

18 | Mater Matters

FEATURE STORY AI in Education A timely session last year included “Teaching and Learning in the Age of AI.” Artificial intelligence, which works by mimicking the cognitive processes and decision-making abilities of the human brain, has many implications for education.

Programs like Chat GPT and Midjourney can be used to create new content, including audio, code, images, text, simulations, and videos.

While some schools are shutting down access to AI in the classroom, Vingradov believes, “Students deserve schools that prepare them to engage with the world that is, not the world that was.”

With that in mind, he hosted a session for teachers on this topic that included: • A vision for teaching and learning in a post AI world • Creating a framework for prompting AI • Learning to use AI as a partner, so that teachers can model the skill with students • Exploring and refining a theoretical lesson Interestingly, Chat GPT recognizes its influence on education.

When Spanish teacher Daniel Crossland asked the platform how it will impact his classroom, Chat GPT replied, “It is important for teachers to carefully consider the benefits and potential limitations of using AI in their classrooms, and to ensure that it is used in a way that enhances, rather than replaces, human teaching and learning."

That is exactly what Vinogradov is encouraging MMA faculty to do. He says, “The technology is only going to get more sophisticated. There’s no going back.”

Merion Mercy Academy engages students through reflection and transformational learning experiences that develop critical thinking skills, cultivate student agency, unleash creativity, harness the power of collaboration, and build community.

GOING BEYOND THE DIPLOMA WITH DISTINCTION, THE FOLLOWING SIGNATURE PROGRAMS AND LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES ROUND OUT THE MMA EXPERIENCE. NEW! Economics & Entrepreneurship Dual Enrollment Course Through the University of Delaware, Merion Mercy Academy offers a dual enrollment course in Economics and Entrepreneurship.

The goal is to equip high school students to thrive amidst rapid change by cultivating agile thinking and developing creative problem solving skill sets. Students in the course can also earn college credit.

STEM at MMA In 2023, more than 30% of Merion Mercy Academy graduates planned to pursue a STEM major in college. We prepare young women for the careers of the future with advanced math and science courses and offerings in coding, robotics, media design, forensics and environmental sustainability.

Our Discovery and Design Studio is a hub for innovation and creativity.

Arts & Music Scholars In addition to tuition scholarships in the fine arts and music, dedicated students can choose to major in the visual or performing arts beginning their sophomore year. Art graduates garner important skills that will last their entire lives.

Diocesan Scholars In junior year, a select number of high-performing students at Merion Mercy Academy are nominated to participate in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia’s Diocesan Scholars program. Each scholar selected is permitted to take, free of charge, two college courses each semester of their senior year on the campus of one of 12 local Catholic colleges or universities.

Experiential Learning Serving others is just one example of how Mercy girls learn by doing.

Our Mercy Mission Corps partners with organizations in and around the Delaware Valley to provide monthly opportunities. Each summer, Mercy Immersions take rising seniors to Appalachia and the Philadelphia area for weeklong service programs.

In addition, our young women grow in global awareness and cultural competency through extended trips to places like Costa Rica, Italy, and Ireland.

FALL 2023 |

19

CLASS OF 2019: THEIR STORIES CONTINUE....

Many alumnae from the Class of 2019 graduated from college this year. We talked with a few of them to learn more about the chapters that followed their MMA stories.

HOW DID MMA PREPARE YOU FOR COLLEGE AND BEYOND? MMA ignited in me a love for

STEM. Through Merion I became confident that I could translate my passion for nature into an academic and professional future.

ADVICE FOR CURRENT MMA STUDENTS:

Samantha Pasciullo Boychuck GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ENVIRONMENTAL BIOLOGY

Don’t make spur of the moment decisions.

Take time to consider the pros and cons of big choices. Talk to people you trust, but also trust and know yourself. As an MMA graduate, you are equipped for success in any environment!

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Hope Johnson LOYOLA UNIVERSITY MARYLAND INTERDISCIPLINARY BACHELOR OF ARTS IN PSYCHOLOGY AND WRITING, MINOR IN MARKETING

COLLEGE POINTS OF PRIDE:

• Selected for a trip to Spain to go on a pilgrimage in the footsteps of Saint Ignatius • Chosen from over 70 applicants to join an environmental policy class professor and nine other students to travel to the Alaskan arctic • Conducted fieldwork with Rutgers University’s Center for Vector Biology and published a related paper ESSENTIAL FACTORS FOR COLLEGE SUCCESS:

Being an active student and getting to know your professors can be beneficial to your performance in a class, but also they can be wonderful mentors for questions beyond academics.

COLLEGE POINTS OF PRIDE:

Michelle Giannini THE PENNSYLVANIA STATE UNIVERSITY BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT; MINORS IN SPANISH AND INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS

ESSENTIAL FACTORS FOR COLLEGE SUCCESS:

Trying new things has led me to many amazing opportunities and forming some invaluable relationships.

20

MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: Take a

break when you feel like you need one, even if you have work to do. Prioritizing personal wellness is important. Assignments will always get done and if you need to ask for an extension, professors will often grant you one. If I’m feeling overwhelmed, it’s okay to take a step back… honestly, it’s better for me to reset rather than keep pushing myself.

COLLEGE POINTS OF PRIDE:

• Director of Finance and THON Finance Chair for Pi Beta Phi Sorority • Studied abroad for a semester in Seville, Spain, and lived with with a Spanish family for four months

FUTURE PLANS: I will be a Social Media

Marketing Intern at EVOLVE

HOW DID MMA PREPARE YOU FOR COLLEGE AND BEYOND? MMA helped to deeply instill

in me a sense of confidence in myself and in my work.

MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: Meet as

ADVICE FOR CURRENT MMA STUDENTS:

many people as you can and be open to as many new experiences as possible. Being uncomfortable can only make you grow as a person.

Remember to be present in the moment and enjoy the journey.

FUTURE PLANS: I am beginning a master’s

FUTURE PLANS: A technology consulting job

program at Duke University for Environmental Management

with PricewaterhouseCoopers in New York City.

HOW DID MMA PREPARE YOU FOR COLLEGE AND BEYOND? MMA taught me how to be

20 | Mater Matters

• Worked at Loyola’s radio station all four years and senior year became the PR and Promotions Director • Won a full scholarship to study abroad at Queen Mary University of London • Competed in rowing and attended the Black Student Athlete Summer in Houston.

driven in whatever activities or studies I take on.

CLASS OF 2019: THEIR STORIES CONTINUE....

HOW DID MMA PREPARE YOU FOR COLLEGE AND BEYOND? Learning in an all-girls school

gave me a boost of confidence that has made a noticeable difference in my willingness to engage in my studies and extracurricular activities. Because my teachers at MMA listened openly to my ideas and encouraged open discussion, I have confidence in myself and my abilities and rely on this confidence when I work with my male peers and classmates at a co-ed school.

Claire Miller

ADVICE FOR CURRENT MMA STUDENTS: Do not be afraid to step out of your comfort zone, and pay attention in all your English classes! Ms. Sack helped me beyond belief with the writing assignments and critical thinking.

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

UNIVERSITY OF NOTRE DAME BACHELOR OF ARTS IN POLITICAL SCIENCE; MINOR IN INNOVATION & ENTREPRENEURSHIP COLLEGE POINTS OF PRIDE:

• Led the grand prize-winning team for the 2022 McCloskey New Venture Competition—Notre Dame’s annual business plan competition—placing first out of over 150 startup companies. Her startup took home a grand prize of $60,000 in cash and is still in operation.

• Worked closely with Notre Dame’s IDEA Center as an analyst and managed a portfolio of 15 student-led startup companies.

• Participated in Notre Dame's Washington Program, in which a semester was spent working as an investigative intern in the prestigious Criminal Law Internship Program for the Public Defender Service for the District of Columbia (PDSDC).

ESSENTIAL FACTORS FOR COLLEGE SUCCESS:

Ask for a seat at the table, even if you don’t think you deserve one. I’ve had meals with Supreme Court Justices, talked to CEOs of multi-million dollar companies, and attended a show at New York fashion week, all because I wasn’t afraid to reach out and ask. Remember you are smart enough, capable enough, and more than worthy of every opportunity that presents itself.

Erin Welch VILLANOVA UNIVERSITY BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN BIOLOGY; MINOR IN GLOBAL HEALTH

Erin Murray UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN SPORT AND ENTERTAINMENT MANAGEMENT; MINOR IN EVENT MANAGEMENT COLLEGE POINTS OF PRIDE:

• Raised over $3,500 for the local Children’s Miracle Network Hospital as a three-year member of USC Dance Marathon • Served as Vice President of Service for the College Panhellenic Association where she led their philanthropy, Circle of Sisterhood • Selected to work the Masters Tournament, the most elite event in golf, as a freshman

19 MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED:

Stay connected to the people who have gotten you to where you are today; there is no such thing as being too grateful for their support.

FUTURE PLANS: A consulting role with

Deloitte in their Government and Policy Services practice. Later, I plan to obtain my J.D. and/or MBA.

ESSENTIAL FACTORS FOR COLLEGE SUCCESS:

Get involved right away to meet new people who have similar mindsets as you. Also, take any and every possible work experience related to your career. I would not be headed where I am today without all the internships I have done.

FUTURE PLANS: I will be joining the PGA Tour

as a Tournament Services Intern for the Dominion Energy Charity Classic!

COLLEGE POINTS OF PRIDE:

• Rowed for four years at the Division I level for Villanova University • Coached for Merion Rowing ESSENTIAL FACTORS FOR COLLEGE SUCCESS:

College comes with a lot of freedom, so time management skills are essential for success.

MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: College

taught me to stay focused and patiently work towards my goals. Each semester has its own challenges, but it is important to take the experience one exam at a time and enjoy the journey.

FUTURE PLANS: After graduation, I am taking

a gap year and applying to medical school.

HOW DID MMA PREPARE YOU FOR COLLEGE AND BEYOND? The courses and teachers at

Merion ignited my passion for the sciences and gave me the confidence to pursue it as a career.

ADVICE FOR CURRENT MMA STUDENTS:

Move forward confidently. Take advantage of all opportunities to learn to lead with courage and mercy.

HOW DID MMA PREPARE YOU FOR COLLEGE AND BEYOND? MMA nurtured my love for

service, and its writing program made me stand out in class. Every one of my professors was impressed with the writing I submitted.

FALL 2023 |

21

REUNION WEEKEND Reunion Weekend Gathers Friends, Recognizes Achievements Merion Mercy Academy classes ending in 3 and 8 celebrated their milestone reunions in spring 2023, beginning with an open house and awards assembly. The first annual awards assembly recognized four alumnae who have distinguished themselves professionally and within the school community. This year’s recipients were:

Bridget Kelly ’73 DISTINGUISHED ALUMNAE AWARD

••••• Given to an alumna who has reached the highest level in her field and has demonstrated exceptional talent within her career, the Distinguished Alumnae Award recognizes an individual who exemplifies the ideals of a Mercy education and has used the visibility, power, or leadership of her position to better the community and serve the greater good.

After earning her bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in education from Penn State University, Bridget Kelly dedicated 30 years of her career to public education with a focus on secondary education. Following that incredibly successful career, her Mercy spirit called her to new humanitarian roles.

During the assembly, Bridget referred to her Distinguished Alumnae Award as “the honor of a lifetime.” She then proceeded to reference her volunteer experiences in Haiti and reminded the audience of students, alumnae, family and friends to experience “moments that challenge our core values.”

Lisa Nicolella Farrell ’78 and Leslie Drialo Ryan ’78 SPIRIT OF MERCY AWARD

••••• This award honors an alumna who has given of her time and talent for the benefit of Merion Mercy Academy. The awardee serves as an ambassador for MMA and has demonstrated extraordinary dedication to the school. She has a passion for Merion Mercy’s mission to educate young women in academics and faith.

The Spirit of Mercy Award was presented to 1978 classmates Lisa Nicolella Farrell and Leslie Drialo Ryan. According to Coordinator of Alumnae Relations Barbara Harrison ’82, “In the world of Merion Mercy, it is hard to imagine one without the other. Both women stand out as faithful volunteers, loyal donors, and women who have tirelessly advocated for and advanced the legacy of Merion Mercy.” Their list of contributions is impressive.

During the awards assembly, Lisa spoke for both herself and Leslie when she said, “A Mercy education is a gift to be treasured. Mercy is a way of life and calls us to a heart of service.”

NOMINATE A DESERVING ALUMNAE We are now accepting nominations for alumnae from the reunion classes ending in 4 and 9. Honorees will be recognized at a school-wide assembly on the Friday of reunion weekend, April 26-27. We are thrilled to honor Merion Mercy alumnae who have made significant contributions to Merion Mercy, their professional fields, and their communities.

Go go www.merion-mercy.com/alumnae for more information and submit a nomination.

22 | Mater Matters

Bridget Kelly ’73, Marianne Grace, Lisa Nicolella Farrell ’78, Leslie Drialo Ryan ’78 and Jillian Mariutti-Nieder ’03 with Patricia “Pat” Carbine ’48 (center)

Jillian Mariutti-Nieder ’03 YOUNG ALUMNAE AWARD

••••• Recognizing established and future leaders among Merion Mercy alumnae who have graduated in the past 20 years, the Young Alumnae Awardee has shown great promise and accomplishment in her chosen profession and/or in community, public or humanitarian service, demonstrating leadership and substantial commitment to the mission of Merion Mercy.

After graduating summa cum laude from the University of Pennsylvania with a degree in Mathematics, Jillian Mariutti-Nieder launched an impressive career filled with professional honors and recognition. Today she is a Senior Director on JLL’s Debt and Equity Financing team in New York where she arranges and structures real estate capital on an exclusive basis for the nation’s premier owners, investors, and developers.

In her remarks, Jillian offered the students three pieces of advice to help them become strong, confident, compassionate leaders: 1. Limitations exist only in your head so change your thinking accordingly.

2. Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% about how you react. Remember, your attitude is everything.

3. Have an attitude of gratitude.

RECOGNIZING PATRICIA CARBINE ’48 During the awards assembly we were delighted to recognize alumna Patricia Carbine ’48, who was in attendance for her 75th reunion. Patricia is a prominent American journalist. Among her many professional credits, she was executive editor of Look, which was the highest position held by a woman at a general interest magazine at the time, the vice president and editor-inchief of McCall’s, and the co-founder of Ms.

REUNION WEEKEND Meri-Union

INTERESTED IN GETTING MORE INVOLVED? We are looking for Reunion Liaisons (classes 4 and 9) to work with your milestone year.

Class of 1998 Front: Kelly O'Neill Kishel and Marybeth Wechsler Boyle Back: Lauren Oleckna, Monica Musto Hetrick, Paige Summers, Kara Devers, Lizann Gallagher McLaughlin, Ellen Hand Favazza, Courtney Wootten Gliwa, Nora Kelly, Jeannine DelPizzo Kissko, Nancy Burnett Acri, Aidan Barlow Vega, Janine Desiderio, and Allison DiBonaventura Austin

Class of 1983: Stephanie Grims Barnes, Susan Byrne McLelland, Sister Honora Nicholson, Colleen Fitzpatrick Markey, Melinda Howell,Lisa Schiavello, Ann Kelly King, Colleen Mooney Gallagher

For more information, contact Barbara Colantuono Harrison ’82, Alumnae Relations Coordinator, bharrison@merion-mercy.com or 610-664-6655 Ext. 120

Pegg Graves Ewing '48 celebrated her 75th reunion and Helen McEwen Gleason, Rosemary Glielmi Camponova, and Marilyn Reisman Fitzgerald all from the class of '53 celebrated their 70th reunion.

The Class of 1973 celebrated their 50th reunion and were inducted into the Golden Circle of Mercy.

Back: Paula Fitzpatrick, Rosina Rucci, Maureen Patton Reis, Kathleen Boczar Van Pelt, Kathy Bandos Flatley, Dottie Mantini Daniel, Marianne Drueding Cornley Middle: Catherine Crimi Shea, Maureen Griffin, Vanessa Thompson-Russell, Michelle Difidelto Dickerman, Rosemary Origlio Koss, Deborah Baratti Dennis, Bridget Kelly Front: Mary Ellen Jacobs Giordano, Helen Williamson Pritchard, Kathi Lewis, Peggy Griffith, Judith Hardy Fluellen, Kate Hill Kunda FALL 2023 |

23

CLASS NOTES Share Your News! Merion Mercy Academy encourages all alumnae to share news in the Class Notes section of Mater Matters.

To contribute, send your news to kshimer@merion-mercy.com or write to Kim Shimer, Alumnae News, 511 Montgomery Ave., Merion Station, PA 19066.

(Class Notes may be edited for length, grammar, and content.)

The Fifties Martie Wolfington Gillin ’55 threw out the first pitch at a Phillies game in September. Martie is the founder of SpeakUp.org, which helps teens talk openly and without judgment about difficult topics and to find support within their homes and schools. 6

SPOTLIGHT In March 2023, Susan Lopusniak Jurevics ’85, was celebrated by Variety in its annual recognition of women who make New York’s entertainment industry thrive. As Chief Brand and International Officer at Audible, the leading creator and provider of premium audiobooks and podcasts, Susan has responsibility for Audible’s business outside of the US and Photo credit Tim Bauer oversees global brand strategy in service of the company’s growing international customer base.

Under Susan’s leadership, Audible productions have racked up recognitions across the world, including winning the 2022 Media Diversity Australia Award, earning Gold in Audio Entertainment at the 61st annual Rose d'Or Awards, and receiving the first nomination of a Peabody award for an Audible Original.

In addition to her day-to-day duties, she also serves as Executive Sponsor of Women@ Audible, the company’s largest employee Impact Group, which has provided her the opportunity to foster female leadership at Audible through increasing gender parity, allyship and supporting career advancement across all job functions.

Previously, Susan served as Global President of bareMinerals for Shiseido, and spent four years in London as CEO of J.K. Rowling’s Pottermore, building the author’s digital publishing business for the Harry Potter franchise.

The Sixties Susan Berry Eberhardt ’62 published her third novel, Misso. In this novel, a young Pennsylvania woman has inherited property in Virginia. She travels there intending to sell the plantation and free the slaves, but her uncle’s debts stand in her way. The son of a neighboring planter complicates the matter further, leading to a difficult choice.

24 | Mater Matters

Susan held numerous roles at Sony over the course of her 13-year tenure, pioneering Sony’s cross-company entertainment marketing function. She earned an MBA in Marketing and International Business from NYU’s Leonard N. Stern School of Business and the Australian Graduate School of Management, and a BA in Visual Arts from the College of the Holy Cross and University of London.

Susan was deeply influenced by Merion Mercy’s commitment to community service and empowering young women to better the world.

She says, “I learned a lot about the concept of grace. MMA taught me that grace means a polite or thoughtful way of behaving, goodwill towards others, a showing of kindness, compassion and love that’s freely given, with no expectation of anything in return.”

Susan serves on the NYU Alumni Association Board, the Stern Executive Board and Brooklyn-based BRIC Arts & Media, and is a creative judge for the FWA, a daily digital awards site. She and her family reside in Brooklyn, New York.

CLASS NOTES The Seventies Sharon Kelly Hake '74 has published Great Dames: Women Sharing Their Power, a collection of 52 true stories about women in the Great Dames community. The authors range in age from 17 to 87 and come from six different countries and all backgrounds and experiences. 3

The Nineties Kathleen Cunniffe-Pena ’98 accepted a tenure-track position at Muskingum University in New Concord, Ohio. She was hired to teach Spanish and to re-imagine the university’s World Languages program. She says, “I am in the process of helping MU to design and implement a brand new program in Global Studies, which will contextualize languagelearning within career tracks such as International Business and Global Health.”6

buying and merchandising. After working for companies like Urban Outfitters, Terrain, and Surya, she decided to go back to school to pursue a career in interior design.

She attended Moore College of Art in Philadelphia. After a several years in the interior design field, Caroline decided to create her own firm, and so began Hendren House Interior Design in June of 2020. Named after the street of her childhood home, Hendren House is rooted in a love for home. Caroline lives in Havertown with her husband and two young sons. She hosted a lovely evening in February at Hendren House for Merion Mercy alumane. 6

The Eighties Maureen Brennan Kozak ’82, managing director of the McCloskey Financial Group, spoke to an MMA Alumni Association gathering about “Financial Confidence for Women from College to Retirement.” 6

The 00s

Georgene Smith Goodin ’88 wrote a piece for the Boston Globe about her and her husband’s experience adopting four siblings (pictured below) out of foster care. She has also written extensively about their foster care journey for The Washington Post. 6

Monica Tassoni Cryan ’06, a meteorologist at PHL17, served as Sip ’n Bid auction emcee. In August she was among 50 Women in Advertising and Media featured in Philly Ad News. Diane Johnson DiCicco ’97 was also featured. 6

Caroline Gallagher Finnegan ’06 is the Owner & Principal Designer of Hendren House. Hendren House has always been a dream for Caroline. After graduating college she started her career in retail

Victoria Gordon McCarthy ’07 has returned with her family of four to Pennsylvania. She finished her sports medicine fellowship and is starting a new job in Princeton as a Primary Sports Medicine physician.

Molly Mita McEndy ’07, Senior Director of Communications for the Philadelphia 76ers, spoke during one of the school’s Weekly Resets. She reflected on how Merion Mercy provided her with a community that supported, encouraged, and uplifted her, giving her the confidence to pursue her career dreams. She shared the importance of faith formation and of thanking God each day “in the place where you are.”

FALL 2023 |

25

CLASS NOTES The Tens Elizabeth MacNeal Donahue ’10, Head of International Engagement for Mercy International Association in Dublin, Ireland, presented at the United Nations’ 67th Commission on the State of Women Parallel Event “Digital Engagement as Key to Women’s Empowerment & Feminist Leadership.”

Elizabeth is a Mercy Global Action Emerging Leaders Fellow. 4 Meghan Pierce ’10 was selected as The Forum of Executive Women’s first president and chief executive officer. A lifelong champion of women’s rights and gender equity, Pierce was most recently Executive Director of the League of Women Voters of Pennsylvania.

This fall, Narberth native Gianna Yanelli ’10 starred as Adrian in "Rocky" at the Walnut Street Theatre. She also recently starred in “Mean Girls” on Broadway. 6

Samantha Ricchiuti ’11 is a professional actress and this past winter she starred as Mother Superior in “Sister Act” at the Candlelight Theatre in Wilmington, Delaware. A large group of Mercy Sisters came to see one of her performances, including Samantha’s former Waldron Mercy teacher Sister Carmel, and Sister Carmella. 4

SPOTLIGHT

Giovanna with members of the Alumnae Association Executive Board at the 2023 Senior Assembly: Angela DiCocco Donnelly '04, Taylor McClain '16, Giovanna Crozier-Fitzgerald '13, Head of School Marianne Grace, and Colleen FitzPatrick Markey '83

Giovanna Crozier–Fitzgerald ’13, was the alumna speaker at the 2023 senior assembly. A cum laude graduate from Widener University Delaware Law School, she is living and working in Wilmington where she is a judicial law clerk in the Family Court of Delaware.

Giovanna graduated from Columbia University in 2017 with a B.A. in Sustainable Development. After working for CDP, an environmental nonprofit in New York City, she decided to apply to law school with the intention of working in environmental law.

She has since gained legal experience in the fields of medical malpractice defense, environmental law, personal injury, and family law. While remaining committed to addressing environmental issues, she is also exploring legal issues that disproportionately affect women, specifically in the area of family law. In her third year at Delaware Law School, she worked as a certified legal intern in the Delaware Civil Law Clinic, which provided free legal services to members of the community. There, she focused on trial advocacy representing survivors of domestic violence in matters seeking protection from abuse.

Drawn to several areas of law related to public interest, Giovanna believes in using legal tools to solve problems for those most affected in her community. Her current path was shaped by two fundamental principles of a Merion education: seeking justice and a commitment to women’s issues. Relying on the values of service, acceptance, and love, she continues to cultivate her legal career by answering calls to service and recognizing beauty in all people.

26 | Mater Matters

CLASS NOTES The Hegarty sisters enjoyed their visit to the Mercy International Centre in Dublin on their family trip to Ireland! Pictured are Teresa ’19, Marygrace ’13, Maeve ’22, and Clare ’15. 6

Deanna Javage ’13 is an executive at Sourcemap, a company that offers supply change traceability and transparency solutions. In November she spoke at MMA’s 51st annual National Honor Society Induction about applying the four pillars of NHS to their lives: character, leadership, scholarship and service.

Alumnae Allie Toal ’14 and Meghan Rafter ’14 have established Facebook and LinkedIn pages for Merion Mercy alumnae pursuing careers in law. Join them in this opportunity to connect and network. The handle for both is “Merion Mercy Academy Law Association.”

Erica Murphy ’15 returned to Merion Mercy to speak to members of the National Math Honor Society about her journey into engineering.

Her career started at Boeing, and she is currently a Product Safety Engineer for Brightdrop. Erica graduated from Penn State’s Schreyer Honors College where she earned a degree in Electrical Engineering.

Dr. Kate Maurer-Song ’15 recently completed her DPhil (PhD) in the physics department at Oxford University. Her thesis was on the physics of the Antarctic circumpolar current with applications to climate modeling.

Rebecca “Becky” Dolan ’16 graduated with a Master’s degree in International Relations from Corvinus University in Budapest, with the equivalent Hungarian distinction to magna cum laude.

In September, Gianna Penezic ’17 was the alumna speaker at MMA's Wine and Cheese reception for new families. Gianna is a third year student at Drexel University's Kline School of Law where she is studying intellectual property law.

Julia Swahl ’16 was featured in The Philadelphia Inquirer as the founder of One Thread, her side hustle turned embroidery business. She says, “As a 2020 graduate from Saint Joseph’s University in the most unbalanced of times, I was determined to use my creativity and little did I know, a dream of

In 2019, Jada J. Smith ’17 established her nonprofit S.W.A.G.—Scholars with Athletic/Academic/Artistic Goals, and in 2023, she launched a scholarship program in her name at Merion Mercy Academy. The $500 scholarship is awarded to an

mine was slowly coming to life. I have always been a creative person, but embroidery was something I had taught myself throughout the pandemic.

September 2021, I made the decision to leave my ‘dream’ corporate job to pursue a dream of my own.” 4

African American Merion Mercy senior who is “excelling in academics, an active member of the community, and living out the mantra ‘Live Mercy. Seek Justice,’ as well as committing to the ideals of the MMA sisterhood.” The scholarship’s first recipient was Autumn Drake ’23, who is attending the University of Michigan with plans to major in psychology with an eye toward a career as a child development psychologist. 6

Nadia Carlino ’17 published her first book: The Carlino Family Cookbook: Recipes and Stories of Growing Up in a Family Where Food Brought Us Together. In this captivating memoir spanning three generations of the renowned Carlino family, Nadia unveils a tapestry of previously untold stories and closely guarded family recipes. Prepare to be transported through time as cherished childhood memories intertwine with the legacy of the acclaimed Carlino Markets. 4

Brijette K. Brown ’18 was a Questbridge Scholarship Finalist.

She graduated from Emory University with honors with a degree in International Studies.

At Emory, she also received the John Fenton Prize (high honor for Emory University’s religion department) for her undergraduate FALL 2023 |

27

CLASS NOTES thesis. Today, Brijette is pursuing a master’s in International Affairs from Columbia University School of International and Public Affairs.6

Katie Lynch ’18 graduated in 2022 from Saint Joseph’s University as a Math major and McNulty Scholar (an academic scholarship/program for women pursuing STEM careers at SJU). She is now a Data Analyst with Liberty Mutual in Boston.

Katie spoke to over 30 students in the National Math Honor Society about careers in math and developing skills in problem solving, critical thinking, and effective solution communication.

Taylor Gregitis ’19 graduated with a degree in Public Relations from the Hussman School of Media and Journalism at University of North Carolina Chapel Hill. At UNC she was an active member of UNC Tri Delta, rowed for the D1 UNC crew team for two years and trained/ raised money for the 2023 NYC Marathon in honor of her dad battling prostate cancer and the American Cancer Society.

The Twenties As the Philadelphia Eagles advanced to the Super Bowl in Phoenix in 2023, Grace DelPizzo ’21, who attends college there, became a viral sensation when she made a video tour of the city's light poles...“juuust in case.”

28 | Mater Matters

Mercy Day 2022 Involves Alumnae whose Careers Reflect the Sisters of Mercy’s Critical Concerns

From bottom row, L to R: Taylor McClain ’16, Keeley Berry Seymour ’02, Melissa Lucchesi ’99, Meaghan Killeen Fishbone ’99, Erin O’Brien ’14, Caitlin Harrison ’14, Allison Walker ’89, Clare McCabe ’16, Tahirah Thea Stevens-Gaillard ’08

On September 24, 2022, Mercy Day concluded with nine alumnae speakers whose careers relate to the Sisters of Mercy’s Critical Concerns: Earth, Immigration, Nonviolence, Racism and Women.

Meaghan Killeen Fishbone ’99 Erin O’Brien ’14 Senior Director of Sales, Lifestyle Legal Advocate, HIAS Brands Division of SC Johnson Pennsylvania’s Immigrant Youth Advocacy Program Caitlin Harrison ’14 Field Support Coordinator, U.S. Keeley Berry Seymour ’02 Conference of Catholic Bishops, Licensed Clinical Social Worker Migration and Refugee Services and co-founder, Evolve Counseling Services Melissa Lucchesi ’99 Trauma-Informed Doula, Moon Tahirah Thea Stevens-Gaillard ’08 Sage Mama Director of Student Engagement & Leadership, Neumann Clare McCabe ’16 University Doctoral student and museum educator, Museum of the Allison Walker ’89 American Revolution Director of Event Sales and Operations, Philadelphia Zoo Taylor McClain ’16 Development Coordinator, Riverbend Environmental Education Center

CLASS NOTES Alumnae Return for Career Day In October, NBC10 television anchor Tracy Davidson spoke to the entire Merion Mercy Academy student body as part of the school’s Career Day program. Davidson shared her career path and offered insights and advice for pursuing your passion. She also spoke of being called to deepen her faith, which led her to earn a master’s degree in Spirituality. Asked about that decision, Davidson said, "I wanted to talk to people about God’s love, because God’s love is the only explanation for why I am here before you today."

Davidson’s keynote was followed by panel presentations from 16 Merion Mercy alumnae in the fields of: • Arts, Culture & Entertainment and Communications/English • Business and Criminal Justice/Law • Education and Social Services • STEM Commonly heard advice from the graduates included, “Say yes to every opportunity;” “Have faith you’ll end up where you’re meant to be;” and “Make the most out of whatever situation you find yourself in.”

PARTICIPANTS INCLUDED: Jennifer Baldino Bonett ’87 Editorial Leader

Diane Duffy Hankee ’88 Director of Liturgy and Music

Jeannie McGill ’17 Software Engineer

CHRISTIANACARE

SAINT JOSEPH UNIVERSITY

eMONEY ADVISOR

Emily Crawford ’17 Owner

Kristen Harrison ’16 Freelance Photographer and Video Editor

Christina Nunno ’15 Neuropsychology Coordinator

Lauren Reilly Hopkins ’99 Supervisor of Secondary Humanities

Tara Keohane Scherf ’94 Registered Nurse

LOWER MERION SCHOOL DISTRICT

DCMH

Mayla Henderson Jackson ’02 Director of Family Planning

Ava Sullivan ’16 Producer

ACCESS MATTERS

PARAMOUNT GLOBAL

Elizabeth Loftus ’14 Senior Client Associate

Christina Marconi Walker ’05 Director of Planning and Design

NAUTILUS LABS

THE HANKIN GROUP

EMILY ROSE DANCE CREATIONS

Kellianne Nicholas DeBlase ’06 Vice President of Marketing & Communications

UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA

WELCOME AMERICA, INC.

Angela DiCocco Donnelly ’04 Former Faculty Member MERION MERCY ACADEMY/ MOUNT ST. JOSEPH ACADEMY

Amanda Dunning ’05 Assistant Vice President of Global Supply Chain KIEHL’S, L’ORÉAL

Athletic Hall of Fame

n Mercy Merio ATHLETIC

HALL of FAME

The Merion Mercy Academy Alumnae Association proudly announces that we are establishing an Athletic Hall of Fame that will recognize and preserve the deep tradition of success of our athletes, teams, coaches and athletic administrators.

The inaugural induction will be held on May 3, 2024 at 7 p.m.

Nomination forms and event details are available now at www.merion-mercy.com/halloffame.

Event registration will be available in March 2024.

FALL 2023 |

29

CLASS NOTES WEDDINGS Kristin DiSipio ’02 to Brandan Njagu on April 1, 2023 6

Erica Tini ’05 to David Branco on January 7, 2022 6

Front row: Lauren Moran Kleinz '03, Sabrina Perry Murray '02, Kristin DiSipio Njagu '02, Brandan Njagu, Kristen Keating Weeks '02, Ann Pelicata Muth '02, Melissa DiSipio '91, and Monica DiSipio '04; Back row: Megan Ruane Rice '02, Kristin Thomas '02, Maura Murphy Powell '02, Lindsey McClennen Silva '02, Kathleen Murtha Dickman '02, Kate McCreight '02, Kacy Moran Powers '02, Kate DiSipio Avitabile '99, and Mary Teresa DiSipio '07.

Caitlin Steele ’09 to Rob Fisher on October 1, 20226

Jackie Ostick ’04 to Matthew Maurer on December 11, 2022 6

From left to right- Carolyn Sciblo ’09, Lizzie McManus Streit ’09, Michelle Gerace ’09, Amanda Montie ’09, Angela Monaco ’09, Meghan Githens Scannapieco ’09, Eileen Browne Bogue ’09, Katie Steele Fisher ’09, Melissa Light Dougherty ’94, Barbara Light Steele ’80, Ellen Barton Shayesteh ’88, Julia Light Fischer ’88, and Jennifer Light Lyons

Bridget Gaffney Anderson '04, Mairead Conley Salmon ’03, Mrs. McDonald, Allison Amole ’04 and Alisa Bigelow Lo Castro ’04.

Not pictured are Jenna Smith Meads ’05 and Cristina Spinogatti DeBartolomeo ’04.

Lauren Grimley ’10 to Perry Barse in May 2022 6

Stephanie Schallenhammer ’12 to Jim Spingler on September 10, 2022 6

Irene Moretto ’08 to Christopher McGee on October 1, 2022 6

Pictured from left to right are Laura Buongiorno ’10, Grace Rothrock ’12, Shannon Saldutti ’12, Stephanie (Schallenhammer) Spingler ’12, Lana Sikahema Corbitt ’12, Emily Buongiorno ’12, and Santina Pescatore Liciardello ’12

30 | Mater Matters

CLASS NOTES ARRIVALS Joe and Allison Sedor Banks ’03, a daughter, Edie Jo Joseph and Kelly Nicholas DeBlase ’06, a son, Santino Vincent Alex and Regina Ciavardini Ditch ’08, a son, Vincent Michael Edie Jo

Santino Vincent

Vincent Michael

Mary

Maggie and Caleb

Tad

John Theodore

Beatrice Jane “Birdie”

Henry

Clara Rose

Juliana McClain

Sloane Marie

Felix

Mya McKenzie

Sofia Rose

Margo

August “Augie” Lee

Dan and Jacqueline Gaval Fitzpatrick ’08, a daughter, Mary Ben and Julia Gallagher Jackson ’12, a daughter, Maggie, and son, Caleb Richard and Helen Brazitis Kuhn ’99, a son, Tad Jack Metza and Evan McClennen ’03, a son, John Theodore Hunter Hillerich and Mary Kathryn McCreight ’02, a daughter, Beatrice Jane “Birdie” Vanessa Walker and Marie Robson ’05, a son Henry Andrew and Megan Lindsay Sabia ’10, a daughter, Clara Rose Matthew and Kellyann McClain Silk ’02, a daughter, Juliana McClain Dustin and Christine Sweeney Steerman ’06, a daughter, Sloane Marie Brian Kroener and Raquel Toledo ’06, a son, Felix Robert Townes and Erica Gibson ’03, a daughter, Mya McKenzie Jason and Michelle Gatta Wall ’08, a daughter, Sofia Rose Bailey and Sara Siegfried Warfield ’10, a daughter, Margo Jake and Meghan Gaffney Wells ’02, a son, August “Augie” Lee

FALL 2023 |

31

CLASS NOTES

In Memoriam Loved ones submitted the names of Merion Mercy Academy alumnae, parents, and faculty/staff.

The MMA community extends its sincere condolences to their families and friends.

Kenneth Abney, P’03

Mary “Judy” McNamara McAnally ’62

Lynn Missonis Aherns ’97

Elizabeth McCarron ’62

Ghada Ayoub, P’00, ’05

Margaret McFillin, P’14

Jerry Blavat, P’79, ’81, ’82

Ann Hesch McIntyre ’65

Maria Pierce Bowe, P’80

Timothy McGarver, P’83

Nancy Hunt Brogan ’57

Margaret Stoudt McKenna ’45, P’68, ’76, ’89

Sister Jean Burns, RSM, ’47 a

Kathleen Minutella, P’82, ’84, ’88

Susan Byrne ’78

Kevin Mulrain, P’07

Gloria Chester, P’79, ’81

Joanne Press, P’98

Helen Devine Coen ’51

Anne Mansfield Quinn ’59

GraceAnn Coleman, P’20

Marie Quinn, P’96

Marie Colihan a

Karen Drueding Rinaldi ’69

Sister Emily Therese Connor, RSM a

Nicholas Robak, P’85, GP’14

Adair Ritte Considine ’48

John Rooney, GP’10, ’12, ’14

Nicholas Constantino, P’04, ’11

Rita Quigley Ryan ’44

Laura Drinkhouse Dell ’53

Marian C. Schneider, P’78, ’80

Mary Baxter Donnelly ’49

Catherine Haenn Shannon ’61

Margaret Mary Kienlen Edge ’48, P’71

Matthew Simon, P’05, ’08

Joseph Martin Falcone, P’87

Robert Soper, P’09, ’13

Tony Fiume, P’06 a

William Swayngim, P’96, ’97

Mary Ann Bruder Flanigan ’55

Sister Ethel Sweeney, RSM a

Nancy Hope, P’14

Ann Taylor, P’77

Robert Iannucci, P’99

Dr. David Weston, P’88, ’90, ’95, ’98

Joan Mirabile Judge '53

Janet Williamson, P’71, ’77, ’82, GP’97, ’02, ’04, ’07

Patricia Lawler Komsa ’67

Donna Daley Wilson ’61

Evelyn McCabe Lewis ’80

Timothy Woestman, P’94

Prayer for The Eternal Rest Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May the souls of all the faithful departed, through the Mercy of God, rest in peace.

Key: ’ followed by year is alumna P=Parent GP=Grandparent a=Former Faculty/Faculty Names cannot be included without the prior approval of the family of the deceased.

32 | Mater Matters

SAVE THE DATES FOR UPCOMING EVENTS FOR 2023-24!

MMMT Fall Production of Twelve Angry Women

November 3-5

Sip ’n Bid

November 18

Thanksgiving Liturgy

November 21

Advent Evening of Reflection

December 7

Alumnae Evening with Santa

December 8

Carol Night

December 12

College Alumnae Day

January 4

Martin Luther King, Jr. Alumnae Day of Service

January 15

Designer Bag Bingo

February 23

MMMT Spring Production of Newsies

February 24-25, March 1-3

Fashion Show

March 10

Reunion Weekend - Classes ending in 4 or 9

April 26-27

Merion Mercy Athletic Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony

May 3

T H E

M A G A Z I N E

O F

M E R I O N

M E R C Y

A C A D E M Y

Mater Matters MERION MERCY ACADEMY 511 Montgomery Avenue Merion Station, PA 19066

Reunion Weekend 2024: Friday, April 26 and Saturday, April 27 We have expanded our traditional reunion to now include an opportunity for reunion classes to spend the day with us Friday, April 26.

Saturday, April 27 will be Meri-Union—all-class, faculty, and staff are invited to a Mass and reception.

Classes ending in 4 and 9, this is your year! If you are interested in helping plan the reunion for your class, please email Barbara Colantuono Harrison ’82, Alumnae Relations Coordinator, at bharrison@merion-mercy.com.