2023-24
Howley Scholars of Distinction
Dear Nick, Lorie, and Meg, We are thrilled to express our deepest gratitude for your incredible generosity in so many areas, which is propelling Merion Mercy to new heights. Specifically, your support in the realm of scholarship, particularly through the Howley Scholars of Distinction, is instrumental in attracting some of the region’s brightest young women.
Class of 2026 Emily Beggs Cecilia Corr Chiarra Mazza Hannah Turek
Together, we are rewriting the narrative for the women of tomorrow.
Class of 2027 Claire Casey Mary Gallagher Hana Nguyen Maggie White Nicolette Whitehawk
It brings us immense pleasure to showcase the remarkable individuals who embody the spirit of the 2023-24 Howley Scholars of Distinction. These young women find themselves at the intersection of gratitude and opportunity, recognizing that their journey has been paved by the unwavering support of The Howley Foundation. Engaged in a diverse array of studies, these students are more than just scholars—they are agents of change. With unwavering dedication, they delve into their academic pursuits, extending their influence beyond the classroom. Whether in the community, on the athletic field, on the stage, or in leadership roles, they contribute tirelessly while fostering a sisterhood that is both loving and supportive—a unique hallmark of Merion Mercy. As you learn more about these exceptional scholars, you will witness a collective certainty among them that they are on a transformative journey. They are growing from girls with dreams to women of passion and purpose, thanks to your invaluable support. Thank you for making a lasting impact on the lives of these young women and the entire Merion Mercy community. With gratitude for your ongoing support,
Marianne Grace
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2023-24 Howley Scholars of Distinction Name: Emily Beggs ’26 Activities: Stage Crew, Mathletes Best Part about School Year: Becoming really close with some upperclassmen through my activities What are You Thankful for in Relation to Your Merion Mercy Education and being a Howley Scholar of Distinction: I feel blessed to have knowledgeable, flexible teachers who are really willing to help. I am grateful to The Howley Foundation for helping set me up for success and happiness!
Name: Cecilia Corr ’26 Activities: Student Council, National Art Honor Society, Mercy Mission Corps, Field Hockey Best Part about School Year: My favorite class has been my Effective Writing Class. I was allowed to write about topics I felt passionate about, and that made me love writing the four essays I did for that class. My personal narrative was about field hockey, my expository essay (my favorite one) was about my favorite song, my persuasive letter was directed at college admission boards, and my research essay was about music’s effects on the brain and how it can be beneficial to depression. What are You Thankful for in Relation to Your Merion Mercy Education and being a Howley Scholar of Distinction: I am most thankful for the sisterhood at Merion. If I did not come here I would’ve missed out on meeting so many amazing people who continue to inspire me and keep me going when I have a bad day. There is no school with a sisterhood quite like Merion, and I appreciate this opportunity more than words could express. Thanks, Howley Foundation!
Name: Chiarra Mazza ’26 Activities: Student Council, Ministry Team, Mercy Mission Corps Best Part about School Year: I have been so blessed by my involvement in so many service opportunities. This work includes feeding those in need, distributing Christmas presents to kids, and more. Every opportunity so far has been incredibly rewarding, and I will continue to participate in them in the future! What are You Thankful for in Relation to Your Merion Mercy Education and being a Howley Scholar of Distinction: I am most thankful for the support that I get from teachers, staff, and everyone in the MMA community. Without the endless support and care, the education simply would not be as enriching or impactful. Along with this, having an education that goes beyond textbooks and classroom is a transformative experience. The approach to education in the MMA community not only focuses on academic excellence, but also shines light on character development and life skills. Thank you, Howleys, for helping to provide me with this incredible education!
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2023-24 Howley Scholars of Distinction Name: Hannah Turek ’26 Activities: Orchestra, Chorale, Flute Trio, Woodwind Trio, Strings of Mercy Best Part about School Year: The best part of my school year so far has been Strings of Mercy, or ukulele band. It’s a new club that two seniors started up this year and that meets up almost every Friday after school in order to prepare to play for the school at the Christmas concert. I enjoyed the club a lot because it’s relaxing and a nice and fun way to end each week with friends. One of my favorite memories was when we walked through the hallways in a line after school playing Mele Kalikimaka for everyone who was still at school. What are You Thankful for in Relation to Your Merion Mercy Education and being a Howley Scholar of Distinction: I’m most thankful for the friendships I’ve made at Merion, as well as the opportunities Merion has given me to challenge myself academically. The friends I’ve made here are some of the best people I’ve ever met and every single girl at Merion is willing to help you, even if they don’t know you. Additionally, Merion has allowed me to challenge myself in many ways, such as becoming more independent and taking the initiative in applying myself to new things. Because of The Howley Foundation, I have been able to become a part of the Merion Merion community and experience all the amazing opportunities that otherwise I would not have. I am very grateful for your support.
Name: Claire Casey ’27 Activities: Soccer, Student Council, National Art Honor Society, Mercy Mission Corps Best Part about School Year: I enjoyed meeting new people, especially the girls from the soccer team. It was really an awesome experience being on varsity as a freshman and having the opportunity to play and become friends with older girls. What are You Thankful for in Relation to Your Merion Mercy Education and being a Howley Scholar of Distinction: I am thankful for my teachers’ willingness to help whenever it is needed. I do not know another school that has the type of support I receive at Merion Mercy. Thank you, Howley family!
Name: Mary Gallagher ’27 Activities: Volleyball, Merion Mercy Music Theater, Conservative Women and Freethinkers Club, Women for Life and Love, National Art Honor Society, Chorale Best Part about School Year: Playing volleyball for Merion was a great experience. I learned a lot and am excited to continue improving at MMA! What are You Thankful for in Relation to Your Merion Mercy Education and being a Howley Scholar of Distinction: I’m most grateful for the supportive environment at Merion Mercy and for the incredible opportunity to attend Merion Mercy thanks to the generosity of The Howley Foundation. 4
2023-24 Howley Scholars of Distinction Name: Hana Nguyen ’27 Activities: Orchestra, Soccer, Track & Field, Handbells Best Part about School Year: It has been so fulfilling getting to meet people through the activities I participate in. What are You Thankful for in Relation to Your Merion Mercy Education and being a Howley Scholar of Distinction: My amazing teachers who guide me through my work, make sure I understand material, and challenge me. I am very grateful for the support of The Howley Foundation, which enables me to have these terrific classroom experiences.
Name: Maggie White ’27 Activities: Soccer, Mercy Mission Corps, Liturgical Dancers, Student Council, Handbells, Environmental Club Best Part about School Year: One of the most memorable parts of my year thus far was when my friends and I got to go on a service trip to the convent to make wreaths. What are You Thankful for in Relation to Your Merion Mercy Education and being a Howley Scholar of Distinction: At Merion Mercy, my classes are truly an open environment for discussion, and I feel so comfortable asking questions. Merion Mercy is such a welcoming place, and I am grateful to The Howley Foundation for the opportunity to attend Merion Mercy!
Name: Nicolette Whitehawk ’27 Activities: Orchestra, Mercy Mission Corps, Mock Trial Best Part about School Year: The best part about my year so far has been the Christmas concert. It was so much fun to come together with everyone else in our music programs to celebrate the holiday season before Christmas break. What are You Thankful for in Relation to Your Merion Mercy Education and being a Howley Scholar of Distinction: Because of The Howley Foundation, I have been able to become a part of the Merion Mercy community and experience amazing opportunities that otherwise I would not have.
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Thank You!
511 Montgomery Avenue, Merion Station, PA 19066 phone: (610) 664-6655 web: merion-mercy.com