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News from Mother McAuley High School

SUMMER 2026

years

of MIGHTY on 99th St.

Contents | Summer 2026 Feature Stories. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Led by Mercy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Alumnae Initiatives & Events. . . . . . . . . . 22 Alumnae Notes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 School News. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Ways to Give. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Upcoming Events.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Carey Temple Harrington ‘86 President president@mothermcauley.org Dr. Kathryn Baal, PhD Principal

Principal Dr. Katie Baal, PhD (left) and president Carey Temple Harrington ‘86 (right) with 2025 Catherine McAuley Award recipients, Emily Mangin ‘26 and faculty member Jamie Portal Guardi ‘95.

Mission Statement Mother McAuley Liberal Arts High School, established in 1846 in the Catholic tradition of Catherine McAuley and the Sisters of Mercy, empowers young women to grow in faith, excel academically and lead with confidence, compassion and courage.

Meredith Obiala Simpson ‘03 Director of Marketing & Communications msimpson1@mothermcauley.org

THE ORIGINS OF “INSCAPE”

Maura Moran Vaughan ‘07 Assistant Director of Marketing and Communications mvaughan@mothermcauley.org

The 1964 yearbook first coined the term “Inscape,” beginning a 60+ year tradition that has now carried over to this publication and our student-run magazine. For six decades, the word “Inscape” has been synonymous with compelling storytelling and the meticulous recording of our history, providing snapshots of our students’ lived experiences.

Rachel Howard ‘17 Marketing Content Manager rhoward@mothermcauley.org

“Inscape” was inspired by a quote from Gerard Manley Hopkins: “Beauty of inscape is unknown and buried away yet how near at hand for those with eyes to see it and to call it out again.”

Peggy Evans Rourke ‘76 Vice President of Institutional Advancement prourke@mothermcauley.org

As the 1964 yearbook reflects, “Inscape is a pattern formed by its people - each a unique person, each a part of the unified whole. Its classrooms - alive, the atmosphere charged with the electricity of learning. Its activities - magnetically drawing like interests together. Its apostolate - reaching beyond the school, extending McAuley enthusiasm, living in Christ.

Mary Larkin Cunningham ‘08 Director of Development and Alumnae Relations mcunningham@mothermcauley.org Maria McCormack Lappe ‘16 Associate Director of Alumnae Relations mlappe@mothermcauley.org

“Inscape synthesizes these bits of colored glass which make up the patterned mosaic that we know at McAuley. Turning its pages, kaleidoscopic, fragments fall into place and there before you - tangible expression of the intangible essence that is McAuley.”

Mother

McAuley Liberal Arts High School The world needs more Mighty.

FROM THE

PRESIDENT

Dear McAuley Community, For 70 years, Mother McAuley has stood proudly on 99th Street – a constant presence on Chicago’s southwest side and a place where generations of young women have discovered who they are and what they are capable of becoming. But our story began long before 99th Street. For 180 years, the Sisters of Mercy have helped shape the history of Chicago through their bold vision for educating and empowering young women. Long before many of the city’s most recognizable landmarks and institutions existed, the Sisters of Mercy were creating opportunities for women to learn, lead and thrive. When McAuley opened its doors on 99th Street in 1956, the surrounding community grew alongside us. Everything around us – from Tally’s Corner to Brother Rice to Southwest School – became part of a neighborhood shaped by generations of McAuley students, families, alumnae, faculty and staff. For seven decades, our community has helped strengthen the southwest side through faith, service, leadership and connection. Today, our students continue to experience an education built for her – built for her to learn, built for her to lead and built for her to thrive. In our classrooms, on our stages and athletic fields, through ministry, service and everyday moments of friendship and support, our students learn that leadership is the default. They learn that their voice matters. They learn to show up fully as themselves. In a world that too often asks young women to shrink, McAuley girls learn to claim their space with confidence, compassion and Mercy. As you turn the pages of this edition of Inscape, we invite you to celebrate the many ways the McAuley legacy continues to thrive through our students, alumnae and the community that has grown with us for generations. Thank you for being part of 70 years of MIGHTY on 99th Street and for helping us continue the legacy of the Sisters of Mercy for generations to come.

In Mercy,

Carey Temple Harrington ‘86 President IN SCAPE M AG A Z I NE

70 Years of McAuley Magic

Community. Sisterhood. Empowerment. Leadership. Service. Legacy. Tradition. Mercy. Compassion. Faith. We use these words as we talk about Mother McAuley, and for good reason. These are the words that come up over and over as our alumnae reflect on their experiences at McAuley. We offer a robust, rigorous, liberal arts education that prepares students to think critically and solve problems through creativity and perseverance, and we offer an environment that fosters community and sisterhood. An environment that empowers young women and proves to them that they are worthy, just as they are. This environment has nurtured McAuley girls for 180 years, 70 of which have been in our building on 99th Street on Chicago’s South Side. Things have undeniably changed since 1846, but the essence of McAuley - the magic that draws people together, and the mission of educating young women in a space designed for them to rise - has only grown stronger through the years.

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In 1956, Mother McAuley opened its doors for the first time. Before then, the school had been known as Saint Xavier Academy for Females and was originally located on Wabash Avenue between Madison and Monroe Streets. When the Chicago Fire in 1871 destroyed the original building, St. Xavier Academy relocated to 29th and Wabash for a short time, then to a larger site at 49th and Cottage Grove in 1900 before moving to 99th Street.

Judy Kosloskus Scully, PhD ‘58 was part of McAuley’s second graduating class; she attended St. Xavier Academy for her first two years, and transitioned to McAuley when the campus opened in 1956. Judy has an undergraduate degree in nursing from Loyola University Chicago, a master's degree in nursing from St. Xavier University, and a PhD in Public Health from the University of Illinois. She has led a long career as a professor in the Loyola University Chicago Niehoff School of Nursing, where she mentored generations of nursing students; published numerous articles and books; played a role in the advancement of school-based health centers; wrote grants; and served on advisory committees, policy committees, and was a member of the Board of Trustees of Loyola University for over nine years. She has received numerous awards for her accomplishments. She and her husband, Joe shared a passion for social justice, devoting much of their time to community service through mentorship and scholarships for the Austin Career Center, Link Unlimited, and Arupe College and the Niehoff School of Nursing at Loyola University, to name a few. They also purchased a small independent movie theater in Michigan, where once a month, they would screen movies about the social and political issues of the day and invite guest speakers to lead moviegoers in discussions. This passion for service has been passed down to their five children and grandchildren, who all worked shifts at the movie theater, and continues to this day as they have become leaders in their communities. On Mercy Values and Service “While I am proud of my accomplishments, the bigger picture is that I accomplished them at a time when our society was changing,” Judy shares. She likens the Mercy values to those of the Jesuits, who sponsored Loyola University, and credits her education at these two schools for developing a desire to be a person for others.

FEATURE STORIES

1950s

“And on the first day of school, Sr. Genevieve told us that we were not in this school to graduate from high school. We were in this school to graduate from college, and they were preparing us for college. Obviously that had an incredible impact on me.” “The McAuley/Loyola values gave me the nudge to be different and work with others to bring about change. The bigger picture of questioning societal norms on race and women’s roles was paramount not only in my career but in my personal life.” On Empowerment “My homeroom teacher was Sr. Genevieve,” Judy shares. “And on the first day of school, Sr. Genevieve told us that we were not in this school to graduate from high school. We were in this school to graduate from college, and they were preparing us for college. Obviously that had an incredible impact on me.” “I went and got my Ph.D.,” she continues. “I do think that the emphasis about going on to school, of learning, was definitely given to me in those four years of high school.” On Leadership When Judy attended St. Xavier Academy and Mother McAuley, there were two sororities, Epsilon and Delta. When Judy became the president of Epsilon as a senior, she had the opportunity to go to City Hall to request permits for dances in the city parks. “I’ll never forget this experience, because here we are, 16 and 17-year-old kids, responsible for ensuring that our group complies with city policies and park regulations. And of course, they gave the permits to us because we had all of the necessary paperwork together,” Judy laughs. Opportunities like this were foundational for Judy, helping her develop leadership skills at a young age, skills that were able to grow and support her through college and beyond. “I think that developing leadership skills when you’re young is very important because your lifelong habits, values and confidence levels begin to form at this time and certainly followed me to Loyola.” On Friendship and Sisterhood “In junior year, we spent one whole week at Sunset Point, Wisconsin, skating, sledding, and tobogganing. And that was just the highlight of our year, a chance to bond with our friends,” Judy remembers. “In high school, friendships are very important, and these were just wonderful, wonderful people who really helped you during some hard times in life. The McAuley alumnae association does a good job of hosting alumnae reunions regularly, where I get to see my classmates and reminisce about our time at McAuley.”

INSCAPE MAG A Z I NE

1960s

At Mother McAuley, Sandra Kenrick Lee ‘66 was a member of the Future Nurses of America Club and Drama Club, worked on the yearbook, and had a part in the senior play, Ladies in Retirement. She holds a bachelor’s degree in both biology and chemistry from Southern Illinois University in Edwardsville, a doctorate in biochemistry from Northwestern University, and a master’s degree in higher education administration from Loyola University Chicago. Through the years, she has pursued multiple careers in science, building on her previous skills and experiences. She has worked as a research scientist at Harvard Medical School and the National Institutes of Health designing and conducting experiments in orthopedic research; a biochemistry teacher at Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine and then at Midwestern University; an education specialist at the University of Chicago and then as a university administrator in Northwestern University’s School of Professional Studies and Feinberg School of Medicine; an instructor in continuing education programs for health professionals; and in her current role, as a medical writer and safety scientist in the pharmaceutical and medical industries. She has dedicated her time to community service, serving on the National Institutes of Health Women’s Advisory Committee, the Faculty Advisory Committee of the Illinois Board of Higher Education, the treasurer on the PTO at her children’s elementary school, as a member of the Board of Directors of De LaSalle (DLS) Institute and as a mentor for fellow PhD scientists who are entering the pharmaceutical and medical device industries. On Empowerment “Sister Mary Placide, my homeroom teacher, talked to each student about our plans after McAuley. She encouraged me to try to find a way to find the money for college, to be courageous and persevere because I ‘have a fine mind,’” Sandra shares. “She’s the first person who ever told me that. Hearing someone who I thought was courageous and persevered in their chosen vocation tell me that I, too, could be courageous, that I could persevere, that I could do the hard work, and I have a fine mind - that was so inspiring and I’ve been able to take that with me. It’s important to learn to persevere. Anything worth acquiring or developing is going to involve some hard work.” On Compassion “I have a sister who was two years younger than me, and when I started at McAuley, my mom told me that she couldn’t afford to pay the whole tuition, so I worked as one of the cashiers in the cafeteria… it was a wonderful experience, and I realized that tuition is hard for a lot of families, and the sisters were very generous to my family.” “I think one value that you take away from that experience is gratitude. Being so grateful for someone taking your education seriously and wanting you to have the chance to just focus on you and become who you’re going to become in your life.”

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1970s

Nancy Myers ‘75 holds a bachelor’s degree from Illinois State University and a master’s degree in forest recreation management from West Virginia University. After spending nearly ten years in the stock market in Chicago and San Francisco, she felt drained and ready for a change. Finding joy and comfort while hiking on the trails in California, Nancy felt drawn to pursuing a career in the forest service. With a sense of hope and determination, she applied for a seasonal position - the start of a 32-year long career that brought her across the country in service to the National Forests. Nancy has had a hand in preserving and serving in Lassen National Forest in California; the Dolly Sods Wilderness within the Monongahela National Forest in the

1980s

After graduating from Mother McAuley, April Armstead Greer ‘84 received a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. As she began applying for law school, she picked up a part-time job substituting at the Academy of St. Benedict the African, and fell in love with teaching. She shifted gears and earned a master’s degree in early childhood education from St. Xavier University. After homeschooling her children, she pursued a master’s in reading from Loyola University Chicago and a PhD in educational leadership from DePaul University. She has served as an educator and interim principal at Francis Xavier Warde School, dean of students at DePaul College Prep, and has been the principal at Old St. Mary’s School in the South Loop of Chicago for the past four years. On Community and Compassion “I graduated in 1984, and my sister would have graduated in 1986, but she was diagnosed with Lupus at the tail end of her elementary school. That brought a series of health challenges, including a stroke, but she was able to start school at McAuley

FEATURE STORIES

“The classes at McAuley were challenging, and they prepared me for the discipline I needed in college and my career.” Seneca Creek Backcountry in West Virginia; the Tonto National Forest in Arizona; and the Hoosier National Forest in Indiana. Through the years, she has maintained trails, managed campgrounds, created new trailheads, and through it all, strove to make the forest better than she found it. She retired in 2024 and moved to Arizona, where she is still called to the forest service, volunteering her time through the organization Friends of the Tonto National Forest. On Friendship and Sisterhood “My grade school friends all went to Queen of Peace, and that’s where I really wanted to go so I could be with my

while her symptoms were under control,” April shares. “Her entire time at McAuley, from when she was asymptomatic, through her stroke and the loss of her voice and her ability to walk, she was able to have tutoring services from CPS, and received curriculum materials from Mother McAuley. This allowed her to graduate from McAuley. They held a special graduation ceremony for her in Mercy Chapel at the end of May in 1986. She passed away from complications of Lupus several hours after the ceremony.” “The way the community carried our family in prayer and in love is one of my most all time favorite memories. My sister, Karen, my mom, and our family were so loved by Mother McAuley… that aspect of care, that communal, family-oriented warmth that I received, that my sister received throughout her illness, that I received throughout my encounters, has carried me, and is something I’m able to bring into my leadership.”

friends,” Nancy admits. “But my parents knew McAuley was a better fit for me… I’m so glad I went. I met so many people who are still my friends to this day.” She celebrated her 50th reunion at McAuley with her friends in the fall! On Empowerment and Leadership As Nancy moved around the country to service the National Forests, she worked her way up until she achieved a permanent appointment in recreation at the Hoosier National Forest. There, she led the developed and dispersed recreation as well as trails on the Tell City Ranger District. She managed a team, prioritized projects, and got creative with the budget in order to maintain and preserve the recreation areas in her care. “The classes at McAuley were challenging, and they prepared me for the discipline I needed in college and my career,” Nancy shares.

manage, teach, and support my school community. Working outside of the Catholic community is non-negotiable.” On Leadership “My leadership style really has a lot to do with the theme of my dissertation topic, which is Othermothering,” April shares. “Its important for the school community to see a Black female principal. It makes a huge difference in curriculum, discipline, and instruction. It’s not a transactional environment, it’s a relational space, and my topic around Othermothering is rooted in an ethic of care and communal practice. I want the students and faculty to witness distributive leadership and that building relationships is critical; we are responsible for each other. My practice of building a culture of care and community extends from St. Margaret of Scotland and Mother McAuley. Those two institutions took really good care of me.”

On Faith “Early on in my career, I was asked why I did not pursue a career in public education. I intentionally decided to remain in a Catholic school environment because it was a safe space: spiritually, emotionally, and psychologically. I am immersed in an environment where I can receive understanding, grace, forgiveness, and have endless conversations about the power of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. At the start of the day and as the day concludes, I lean on my faith to guide,

“There’s something about a Catholic school education - the comfort, the understanding, the intimacy that I get from being in these Catholic spaces.”

IN SCAPE M AG A Z I NE

1990s

“One of the greatest gifts McAuley gave me was the unwavering belief that my voice mattered.”

Betsy Ross Ready ‘94 was an active student at McAuley, participating in student council, the National Art Honor Society, and the soccer team. Betsy holds a bachelor’s degree in advertising and marketing from Marquette University. She has worked in the advertising industry for 27 years at some of Chicago’s largest and most prominent agency networks as well as several independent agencies. Betsy now serves as Chief Client Officer at Manifest, where she helps lead integrated client partnerships towards growth in a rapidly changing marketplace.

of having been educated in a space where I never felt the need to defer to the male voice in the room. My school taught me to think on my feet, to speak up, to ask questions, and to trust my instincts and ideas. Looking back now, I see just how formative and empowering that experience was. It shaped not only my confidence, but also my expectation that I deserved a seat and a voice at the table. Ms. Kathy Gordon Davis showed me that creativity belongs in every situation, and that it’s what makes your thinking truly distinctive.”

On Empowerment

On Leadership

“One of the greatest gifts McAuley gave me was the unwavering belief that my voice mattered,” Betsy shares. “Our opinions were sought after, our perspectives were valued, and we were expected to contribute thoughtfully and confidently. At the time, I didn’t realize what a rare and powerful environment that was!”

“Being a leader was a default at McAuley. When I entered Marquette University in 1994, I already knew that showing up meant raising my hand, it meant participating and it meant driving forward with a relentless curiosity. I was never the best student, or the best athlete, or the most popular - but that never mattered, it wasn’t about that - it was figuring out how you contributed to the larger community. When I think back on years

“It wasn’t until I entered the business world that I fully understood the privilege

2000s

Elizabeth Guerrero Fonseca ‘09 is a government affairs leader with experience advancing public policy, stakeholder engagement, and organizational priorities across government and advocacy sectors. Currently serving as Director of External Affairs & Community Engagement at the Illinois Department of Labor, she oversees communications and manages department-wide strategic initiatives. Previously, she has served as Manager of Board Relations at Chicago Public Schools, as Deputy Director of Government Affairs for the Office of the Mayor for the City of Chicago, and in grassroots work at the Brighton Park Neighborhood Council. She holds a bachelor’s degree in sociology with a minor in French from DePauw University.

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of leading teams for impact, I think wow, they were showing us that back then.” On Mercy, Service, and Giving Back “The Mercy values, later emphasized by the Jesuit mission of Marquette, showed me what it means to show up. I have always been called to service, my instant reaction has always been to help, to empathize, to champion those that perhaps can’t lift themselves up or out of their situation.” “Mental health advocacy, particularly for women, is deeply important to me. In 2022, following the tragic loss of five NCAA women athletes to suicide, I partnered with a close friend, the Chief Marketing Officer of the Chicago Sky, to help create The Net — a mental health support network for women in sports. Now in its fourth year, the initiative is focused on addressing the growing impact of online hate and harassment that athletes face across social platforms. Through advocacy, awareness, and community support, The Net works to create safer, healthier environments for women competing at every level of sport.”

On Service and Giving Back “McAuley really instilled in me that there is power in the community, and that’s something that really stuck with me. In college, I tutored through one of the local charities, and I loved the opportunity to help out the next generation of leaders. The opportunities to give back were there, you just had to seek them out.” On Empowerment “Overall, I felt more confident coming out of McAuley. I’ve never necessarily been shy, but I was unafraid to raise my hand in college and to step out of my comfort zone and try new things. I just feel like women are so powerful. It really speaks to McAuley’s culture in that we get so many opportunities while we’re surrounded by women and everyone’s in your corner.”

Mary Hart Wood ‘10 was a member of the Mighty Mac soccer team and an avid artist. She has a bachelor’s in nursing from the University of Iowa, and has worked at the Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago for the past 13 years in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Lurie’s offers a level 4 NICU, catering to children under the age of one who need ICU care. Mary has cared for children from all over the world whose families seek out the expertise, specialities, and community of support that Lurie’s medical staff offers - a demanding but rewarding career. On Legacy and Tradition “My whole entire family went to McAuley - my dad’s three sisters, my sisters, my cousins - I think there are 18 of us. It’s like a rite of passage on my dad’s side of the family,” Mary jokes. On Compassion “My career has taught me that everyone is dealing with issues behind the scenes, and it’s so important to be a compassionate person. I have a greater appreciation for how difficult it can be to have a child in the NICU after experiencing it for myself with my first kid. He was born early and spent 27 days in the NICU, and I am so grateful for the compassion and care we were shown. We learned that at McAuley, too, the impact of helping someone, and doing anything you can to make it a little bit better.” On Sisterhood and Community “High school can be a difficult time, but at McAuley, no one would ever judge you. You have so many opportunities and different avenues to take, and it’s easy to branch out and learn new things. It felt like a home away from home, surrounded by your best friends.”

“My whole entire family went to McAuley - my dad’s three sisters, my sisters, my cousins - I think there are 18 of us. It’s like a rite of passage..."

FEATURE STORIES

2010s

2020s

Ady Urbina ‘27 will begin her senior year at McAuley in the fall. She’s a journalism student and a member of Action Reaction, Eco Macs, Model UN, the National Art Honor Society, and Student Ambassadors. She shares her perspective on what being a Mighty Mac means today. What does being a Mighty Mac mean to you? To me, being a Mighty Mac means being a part of something larger than myself – that the M’s on our shirts mean something truly mighty to our community. When I first started at McAuley I never would’ve guessed that wearing McAuley merch out in public would be so significant. One afternoon, I was grocery shopping with my mom when a stranger stopped dead in her tracks and exclaimed, “McAuley!” while pointing down at my sweatshirt. I was taken aback to say the least: why was this woman so excited to see me wearing merch from my high school? She then proceeded to gush over her time at McAuley and how she loved it so very much. I nodded along as we both bonded over both having attended McAuley. This wasn’t the first interaction I’ve had with a McAuley alum in public, however. One day, my friend Emmi and I were out and about at Hobby Lobby when an older woman stopped us after noticing our McAuley sweatshirts and began to excitedly ask us about our experiences. We chatted for a while, informing her about the changes and updates to our school, but also the traditions we share as members of the McAuley family. Similarly, a group of my friends and I, once again all proudly wearing McAuley gear, were having lunch when a group of off-duty paramedics happily told us to “keep doing what you’re doing!” Because of these positive interactions, I started holding all my McAuley merch with such high regard since I believed it possessed some sort of magic. Of course, this wasn’t the case. I had eventually come to the realization that I am truly a part of something bigger than myself. A common denominator about every interaction I’ve ever had with someone who had gone to McAuley or was familiar with our school is that they have all been excited. Excited to see Catherine McAuley’s Mission of Mercy – one that they’ve heard so much about – come to fruition through each and every one of us. Being a Mighty Mac has never been just a title, but a connection amongst generations of women all embodying Catherine McAuley’s mission to leave the world a better place than what it was before. In other words, we are all connected to each other: in a circle that will never end, as long as the fire of Mercy burns within us.

INSCAPE M AG A Z I NE

Things We LOVE About McAuley

ME MO R A B LE E V E N TS 1 All-School Musical

4 Hallelujah Chorus / Christmas Concerts Nothing sets the tone for the Christmas season like our trio of Christmas concerts featuring our choral groups, orchestra, and Brother Rice and Mother McAuley Band. Former members are invited to join for the Hallelujah Chorus -

Kairos

This overnight senior retreat now spanning Thursday - Sunday has been a transformative experience for thousands of McAuley girls since the 90s over the course of 167 retreats. Live the Fourth.

a tradition more than 40 years in the making!

8 MERCY DAY A beloved holiday celebrating Catherine McAuley and the Sisters of Mercy. Whether you sang Song of the Soul or Why We Tell the Story, it’s one

22% of the student body participates in the all-

of the best days of the year.

school musicals as performers; members of the stage, lighting, sound, costume, and make-up crews; or in the orchestra. Many hours are spent in the auditorium and D wing to make these productions shine - built not just on talent and dedication, but support, friendship, laughter, and the formation of life-long memories!

Art Fair - now Artapalooza

This student art exhibit showcases the award-winning talent of our students and celebrates our vibrant visual arts and technology department.

FATHER DAUGHTER DANCES Bookends of students’ high school careers, our freshman and senior father daughter dances are wonderful memories!

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5 Halloween at McAuley From costume contests to our Not-So-Haunted House run by all 50+ clubs and organizations, Halloween has always been fun at McAuley.

6 UPPERCLASSWOMAN RETREATS Retreats have always provided our upperclasswomen with a time for reflection, and for more than a decade, the McAuley junior retreat has given the entire class a chance to volunteer and serve in our community, putting Mercy into action.

9 NHS Fall Festival and

Ice Cream Social Fundraisers

These annual activities have provided years of fun and memories as the student body, led by the National Honor Society, raised money in support of cerebral palsy research, Misericorida, and more!

FEATURE STORIES

13 Senior Academy Awards / End-of-Year Celebration The end of the school year is full of celebrations for the senior class, including an awards ceremony to recognize and celebrate the class with fun awards like the student who “brightened my day,” kindest, heaviest backpack, the one most likely to show up to class with coffee, and the saddest to leave McAuley. Lots of laughs, cheers, and tears to send the seniors on their way.

10 ONE ACT FESTIVAL Senior theatre students produce and direct their peers in these short plays, giving them a chance to put their leadership skills into action.

15 Sports Banquets

A chance to celebrate our student athletes and their families at the end of each season and honor the teams’ most valuable player and most improved player.

PROM

16 STATE TOURNAMENTS 14

Who still has their dance cards

SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES

and remembers their theme?

Students complete 12,000+ hours of service each year McAuley girls learn what it means to be of Mercy, and serve their community.

With 50+ team and individual state appearances, including 21 state championships in volleyball, water polo, and basketball, Mighty Macs are no strangers to cheering on our student athletes at state tournaments! The fan section is electric, and our student athletes are fierce competitors.

17 SUMMER CAMPS

There’s nothing like the air conditioned auditorium or the sound of sneakers in the gym as thousands of grammar school students come through McAuley during the summer months. Many Mighty Macs grew up attending our camps, creating memories at McAuley and starting their MMc t-shirt collection - early!

Underclasswoman Retreats

School Masses

Whether in the auditorium, east gym, or main gym, our school Masses provide a time for our

A chance for freshmen and sophomores to reflect, grow in faith, and connect with peers.

community to come together in celebration of our faith. Students have played a role in these Masses through the years as peer ministers, Eucharistic ministers, lectors, musicians, and liturgical dancers. IN SCAPE M AG A Z I NE

A STO R I E D HI STORY & T H E PEOP LE W H O SH AP E US 19 The Venerable Mother Catherine McAuley

Catherine saw a need, and responded. With her inheritance and strong will, she was unafraid to advocate for those in need, sheltering women and girls at the first House of Mercy on Baggot Street and inspiring thousands of women with her clear mission, her steadfast faith, and her unbridled determination to make a difference.

20 The Sisters of Mercy

Generations of McAuley girls have been shaped by the Sisters of Mercy - encouraged, challenged, supported, and truly seen as individuals with a potential to change the world.

23 Faculty, Staff, and Coaches We are grateful to the dedicated faculty, staff, and coaches through the years who have encouraged, challenged, and supported students - who made an impact on YOU? "I have the most humble heart to be one of two alum (my sister Elizabeth '82) whose mother was leadership faculty in the 1970s-late 1980s until her passing in 1989 at age 50. My mother Alice Savicz oversaw the McAuley Business Department and was instrumental in ensuring every one of us was proficient typers, be it manual or later computer... probably one of the most useful educational tools we have all come to know. Love you mom!" - Allison Savicz ‘80 "My four older sisters graduated from Mother McAuley and I was proud to follow after them. I returned to Mother McAuley as a Spanish teacher from 1992-2004. My son and daughter both attended Little School as well. I had the best time teaching and being the sponsor of Action Reaction. I sadly moved out of town and had to leave the McAuley community. My biggest regret in life is that my daughter was not able to be a part of the loving McAuley experience. I am so thankful for my McAuley education. It has made me a stronger and kinder woman who has succeeded in life to the fullest." - Nancy Weckel ‘85

24 PARENT CLUBS left to right: Sr. Ruth Mutchler, Sr. Kathleen McClelland, Sr. Lois Graver, Sr. Maryann Bergfeld at a celebration of the Sisters of Mercy at Holy Name Catherdral in 1981

21 180 Years in Chicago For 180 years, the Sisters of Mercy have shaped the story of Chicago. When they arrived, inspired by Catherine McAuley’s bold conviction that educating young women would transform the world, they simply said “yes.” That yes took root. And it flourished, taking us from the first location on Wabash Avenue between Madison and Monroe Streets, to Cottage Grove, and now to 99th Street, empowering thousands of Chicago’s young women.

22 LEGACY OF VISIONARIES Catherine McAuley and the Sisters of Mercy were before their time, encouraging young women to pursue higher education and careers in a time when that was not the norm for women. They have always been at the forefront of education, and we carry on their tradition of providing equitable access to challenging curriculum, facilities, and opportunities for students.

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Our Mothers' and Fathers' Clubs support our students and school, holding fundraisers and events to promote community and provide resources for students. They have helped fund a new short bus, a garage to house outdoor athletic equipment, and so much more!

ME MOR I E S A N D N OSTALG I A

teacher and same classmates with no responsibilities but to “listen” to the announcements and catch up with friends.

25 "Are you an M?" Cheer

Are you an M-I-G-H-T-Y M-A-C?!

33 Graduation / White Dresses Our longest tradition is graduation, when our senior class wears white gowns.

“My favorite memory of McAuley is the graduation ceremony. It’s such a special and unique tradition that we were able to wear the beautiful white gowns in unison. What a perfect way to culminate an amazing four year experience at the best high school on the southside.”

CART RIDES

- Lauren Bozzi Miller ‘03

34 GYM UNIFORMS 26

While students today have matching t-shirts and shorts, there was once a time that gym

Big Sister / Little Sister Program A MIGHTY way to welcome our newest class of Mighty Macs - from a Halloween Party to picnics to roller skating, our big sisters made their freshmen little sisters feel part of the McAuley community from the start.

uniforms included bloomers and polished white keds, and if your uniform wasn’t pressed, you wouldn’t pass the uniform check.

Students line the hallway to cheer on their peers as they head to state or win awards a time-honored tradition.

27 BIRTHDAY DECORATIONS Whether your friends hung ribbons full of candy on your locker or plastered it with pictures, signs, and magazine cut-outs for your birthday, you never felt more loved!

35 MacNation / Fan Section You can count on our students to go all-out in the fan section.

Class Rings These mementos celebrate tradition and honor the legacy of Mother McAuley.

36 The plaid skirts / different skirts per level Whether you wore a kilt or a skirt, having a different skirt for each level is a unique McAuley unifier!

COOKIES 28 Calendar Drive

How many calendars did you sell to try and win a car - Colleen Quinn ‘88 is pictured here with the car she won in 1987!

Comfort food in the form of a McAuley chocolate chip cookie!

37 Senior Girl Cheer

“There’s a girl I’d like to know, she’s got the old McAuley pep and go, pep and go! Senior Girl is quite a treat, hard to beat, Senior Girl! Hey!” INSCAPE MAG A Z I NE

FEATURE STORIES

32 Homeroom Four years of homeroom with the same

A HOME AWAY F ROM H OM E

Turf Field & Softball Diamond

41 Chem Labs Students excel in chemistry at McAuley whether in the old labs in the east wing, or the LEED-certified labs added in 2012!

These outdoor spaces provide our flag football, lacrosse, soccer, and softball student athletes with facilities to succeed. The turf field has also hosted student events and activities, providing a safe and state-of-the-art space for fun!

B WING

Our art hallway is always bursting with creativity, vibrant color, music, and laughter.

BENNY HALL Their lockers may have been the farthest from class, but freshmen once ruled the east wing and Benny Hall.

D Wing Built in 1965, D Wing is the home of the nationally recognized theatre program! These halls hold the magic and memories for many.

Learning Resource Center

This quiet space is home to the Costello Learning Resource Program, which was established in 2002 to meet the individual needs of students who face learning obstacles during their high school years. Students have found support and success within its walls.

43 DINING HALL / CAFETERIA The lunch room is one of everyone’s favorite places! Lunch tables created lifelong friendships not to mention the favorite foods students look forward to: bosco sticks, the pizza combo, soft serve ice cream, sandwiches from the sandwich cart… what was your favorite lunch?

46 Sister Brian Costello

Student Life Center / Library This room off the main hallway has served students as a space for learning and collaboration.

The Chapels

Our chapel on the second floor, and the Mercy Chapel which is now part of Mercy Circle, are favorite places for quiet and reflection. “My favorite spot on campus is Mercy Chapel. It is such a beautiful spot to sit and reflect, pray and give thanks for all your blessings. I was in chorus and I specifically recall a time when we were singing ‘Canon’ in the Chapel and it was so moving. I still think about how that moment affected me and brought me closer to not only God, but the McAuley community.” - Jennifer LaVan Kukulka ‘92

44 MAIN GYM In January 1993, the Main Gym officially opened, and has been a main hub of the school since - these walls have sent Mighty Macs to state championships, welcomed news broadcasts featuring MacNation, hosted thousands of young girls in summer camps, provided a cool space for gym classes, dances, school Masses, pep rallies, and so much more.

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48 STUDENT LOUNGE

Whether you were there in the era of the pay phones or the Kitty Mac Cafe, the Student Lounge has always been a space for student development and connection.

McAuley’s storied athletic tradition and unparalleled success has spanned throughout the state of Illinois and across the nation for decades. By offering 16 different sports with multiple levels, Mother McAuley is able to provide our student athletes with an extraordinary opportunity for growth and competition at the highest levels. In 2024, our volleyball program was recognized as #1 in the state in celebration of the 50th edition of the IHSA Girls Volleyball State Series - a testament to our strength and tradition.

Award-Winning Art Program Our visual arts and technology department fosters creativity and prepares students for future academic and career opportunities, with $943,000 in tuition scholarships for college and universities awarded in the last year alone.

50 Clubs & Organizations From honor societies to hobbies, sororities in the 50s to usherettes in the 70s to Varsity Club today, students have explored their passions and fostered friendships by participating in these MIGHTY opportunities.

Powerhouse Athletics

54 PREMIER PERFORMING ARTS EDUCATION McAuley’s performing arts program - our Brother Rice McAuley Band, choral groups, orchestra, and theatre - has been wellregarded for decades, educating young women - and men from surrounding schools who have gone on to successful careers in

Inscape Newspaper / Yearbook “With my childhood friend Peg White (both of us growing up at St. John Fisher) we were selected to be editors of the Inscape newspaper staff for our senior year. We were sent to Eastern Illinois University (Charleston) for the Illinois high school newspaper competition the summer

the arts. This year, McAuley has been named a Premier Community for Theatre Education, a national distinction presented by the Educational Theatre Association (EdTA) to schools that demonstrate exceptional achievement in providing meaningful, high quality theatre education and access for all students.

(1986) before our senior year in which we brought home many awards. This was an incredible honor and leadership opportunity. I eventually worked at the Daily Illini as a U of Illinois student and was a healthcare journalist at Crains Chicago. I am so grateful for many reasons for this amazing memory in my life!” - Joan Fitzgerald Clopton ‘87 pictured, left

52 LITTLE SCHOOL For more than 40 years, seniors have been offered a Developmental Psychology Honors course - Little School - where they learn critical child development concepts and master teaching skills that they immediately put into practice in the preschool or kindergarten classroom. In 2016, we moved from an in-house preschool program to partnering with area Catholic grammar schools!

55 Rigorous Academics

McAuley’s academic strength comes from how personal it is. With teachers who actually know the students - their strengths and their gaps - and help them move forward; the range of course offerings that allow students to find their passions and lean into what they love; and the resources and support provided by their peers, our students graduate well-prepared for college and beyond.

56 School-Sponsored Trips Learning is not confined to the classroom at McAuley - students have traveled internationally to Austria, Canada, the Caribbean, Costa Rica, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, and across the country to cities in California, Florida, Hawaii, New York, Tennessee, Texas, Wisconsin, and more to enrich their appreciation of art, science, service, theatre, and world languages while being exposed to new places and people.

INSCAPE MAG A Z I NE

FEATURE STORIES

PROGR A M S & OPPORT U N I T I E S

T HE M AGI C O F McAU L E Y

AN ENVIRONMENT WHERE THE DEFAULT IS LEADERSHIP

57 Being a Mighty Mac is a lifelong identity Mighty Macs are all over the world - in all 50 states and 22 countries. And no matter where you run into a Mighty Mac, you will know because McAuley is not just a memory, it’s an identity. McAuley girls are proud to be part of this legacy.

Opportunity to do it all There is no limit to what McAuley girls can try as they learn about themselves and are encouraged to lean into their passions! Sports, arts, student council our students are encouraged to do it all!

We believe girls deserve spaces where confidence is assumed, not earned - where they learn to lead without apology and show up fully as themselves. We’re raising the bar on what the world expects from leaders by changing when and how young women begin to see themselves as one.

Diverse Community

We welcome students from 77 zip codes throughout Chicagoland and celebrate all of our students, honoring the different cultures and perspectives that make up our MIGHTY student body.

LEGACY AND TRADITION

61 Supportive and Welcoming Environment Girls thrive when they feel both seen for who they are and expected to rise. Every McAuley girl is known. Every McAuley girl is nurtured.

An environment that fosters sisterhood and friendship The McAuley sisterhood is a network of women you can rely on throughout your lifetime, wherever your ambitions take you. The friendships made within these halls are sacred, and will carry you through life - the highs, the lows, and everything in between.

We have a lasting legacy and tradition of raising the next generation of women called to lead. This mission continues to draw in young women throughout Chicagoland, including generations of families who continue to choose McAuley.

“I had such a great experience at McAuley! I made many

“I love absolutely everything about McAuley! So grateful

of my lifelong friends. McAuley is such an encouraging and

for the time spent in those halls, the friendships made and lessons learned. I am the woman I am today because of that great institution and I can’t wait for my daughter to be a future Mighty Mac in 12 years!” - Victoria Acevedo Barrett ‘04

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An environment that infuses Mercy values and promotes a life of service

confident-building place for young ladies to learn in a welcoming atmosphere. McAuley really installed values in me to help others. I have worked at nonprofits all of my life and my school background from McAuley made that possible.” - Jeanne Delaney ‘94 pictured with friends at graduation

“My time at McAuley gave me a bold, unshakeable confidence in myself. Because of the strong, supportive women around me, I never questioned whether I was capable of excelling in the classroom or stepping into leadership. I felt encouraged to take up space, use my voice, and pursue every part of who I was. From music to softball to Math Macs, I was able to explore a wide range of interests and learned that I did not have to limit myself to just one path. I still carry that with me every day. As an engineer working in a male dominated field, I often think about how important it is for young women to see what is possible for themselves. That perspective comes directly from my time at McAuley. It shaped not only what I believe I can achieve, but also how I show up for others. I actively look for ways to build meaningful connections with other women and create the kind of supportive community that once had such a lasting impact on me. I am deeply grateful for my McAuley education and for the confidence, curiosity, and sense of responsibility it continues to give me. McAuley taught me not just to succeed, but to lead with confidence and bring others with me.” - Grace Trippiedi ‘18 pictured, left “Overall, what I took away from McAuley was something Sister Corinne said. Paraphrasing, she said that no matter what field you go into, McAuley is going to give you the confidence and education to be able to compete at any level. This has stuck with me over the 34 years since graduation. Working in a older, male dominated field at a very young age, I never felt lacking or unable to hang and now, many years later, I still pull from the confidence that was established due to being a part of McAuley. Unfortunately, I never had a daughter to be able to share such an amazing experience. I am so thankful for the privilege of attending McAuley.” - Jennifer LaVan Kukulka ‘92

66 An environment that embraces a liberal arts education A liberal arts education goes beyond memorizing facts to teaching students to make connections in the world around them, building critical thinking, problem-solving and communication skills that prepare them to succeed in all aspects of life.

An environment that leads to an unshakeable sense of self 67

An all-girls environment that prioritizes women’s empowerment

McAuley girls carry themselves with confidence and lead with compassion. They know that their voice matters, and they don’t wait to be invited to the table they pull up a chair. You’ll know a McAuley girl when you meet her, because she possesses the mightiest power of all:

FEATURE STORIES

65 An environment that instills confidence

The M The M mascot represents all McAuley girls - and this spring, we unveiled an updated version. The refreshed look honors our history while embracing the present moment. Much like our young women, it carries forward what is essential while stepping confidently into what is next. “I was the first mascot and it was one of the best memories I have from my high school experience. Being the mascot taught me about unity. I was a thespian in high school (shout out to the late Mrs. Haynes), and I enjoyed performing on stage, so to perform as the mascot was a natural transition for me. I was not an athlete and didn't really know much about sports, except how to cheer on the teams that I liked. Once I became the mascot, I realized that the students had more in common than the things that separated us. It didn't matter if I liked theatre and the person sitting next to me liked playing in the band, it didn't matter what our ethnicities were or what our different walks of life looked like. What did matter was that we were able to find common ground for a purpose. Sure, we liked to cheer on our Volleyball and Basketball teams to victory, and I had lots of fun doing that in the big "M", but there was a more important purpose I felt I was helping with...and that purpose was to create sisterhood and a life-long bond as Mighty Macs!” - Terri Davis ‘94 pictured below, right

she’s proud to be exactly who she is.

Part of the McAuley magic is giving girls the space to be their confident selves. An all-girls environment lets them experience a world where every group leader, coach, and class voice is a girl, so they never question whether they belong, but learn to claim their space. INSCAPE MAG A ZINE

YOU!

We are a community made up of alumnae, students, faculty, staff, parents, and friends who believe in the mission of Mother McAuley. Together, we are empowering the next generation of women who are called to lead - and we are MIGHTIER together!

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A Preview of What’s Ahead at Mother McAuley For nearly 180 years, Mother McAuley has created an educational environment Built for Her – built for young women to learn, lead and thrive. That mission remains as strong today as ever. Every day, Mighty Macs are empowered to discover their strengths, find their voice and grow into confident leaders grounded in Mercy values. As we look toward the future, Mother McAuley is preparing to invest in important campus and facilities improvements that will strengthen the student experience for generations to come. These efforts will modernize critical infrastructure, enhance learning environments and ensure our campus continues to reflect the excellence of a McAuley education. This work is about more than buildings. It is about sustaining a mission that has shaped generations of women across Chicago and beyond. Today, more than 29,000 alumnae carry their Mercy education into the world as leaders, advocates, professionals and changemakers. Their impact is the legacy of McAuley—and the inspiration for what comes next, ensuring the school that nurtured their development can continue giving young women all they need to grow into capable, compassionate leaders. In the months ahead, we look forward to sharing more about this vision for the future of Mother McAuley.

If you would like to learn more or explore ways to help advance this important work, please reach out to Carey Temple Harrington ‘86, President of Mother McAuley, at president@mothermcauley.org.

The Spark

You’ll start to notice a new icon infused in our graphics and marketing - The Spark. This symbol is the first sign of becoming – the inner drive, passion and determination that lives within every McAuley Girl. It symbolizes the moment she discovers her voice, recognizes her strength and begins to shape the world with confidence and compassion. Rooted in the values of Mercy, The Spark represents possibility in motion. It is a reflection of the ambition, resilience and heart that connect generations of alumnae and continue long after graduation. The Spark stands as a symbol of purpose awakened and potential set into action.

IN SCAPE MAG A Z I NE

LED BY

Mercy

A Mother McAuley education is infused with the charism and Mercy values of Catherine McAuley and the Sisters of Mercy. Students don’t just learn about justice, faith, and service, they learn how to embody them. As they are encouraged to speak up, show up, experiment, and lead, they develop into young women who are called to be compassionate and courageous leaders. We are proud to carry on this tradition, and celebrate our alumnae, students, and members of our community who live their lives devoted to these Mercy values.

A Voice for Others with the Veterans MS Alliance I have a super supportive family and Mary Youpel ‘08 is a policy advisor tons of people that are in my corner, for the American Petroleum Institute but many veterans are not in that (API) and the founder and executive same position. So what about the director of the Veterans MS Alliance. veterans who are struggling, and She holds a bachelor’s degree in they have no one to help them? I natural resources and environmental looked around to see if there's an science from the University of Illinois organization that acted as a one-stop at Urbana-Champaign, a master of shop to assist these veterans and it science in oceanography and coastal did not exist. science and a master of public administration in public policy So I created it. Now, should a veteran analysis from Louisiana State ever have an issue, they would be able University, and a master of business Principal Dr. Katie Baal with Mary Youpel ‘08 (center) and to come to our organization and have administration from The Wharton Mary’s niece, Saoirse Redmond '28, at our Veteran’s Day someone that would hold their hand ceremony in November 2025. School. She served as a member in the process. Not only once, not only of the National Oceanic and twice, but considering that MS is a disease that has yet to be Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), completing six months in cured, this would be someone who's with them for the duration the US Coast Guard Academy officer candidate school (OCS). of their life. What led you to create the Veterans MS Alliance? I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS), and at the time, I didn't realize there was a connection between veterans and MS. When it became clear there was one, I realized there's a major disconnect between veterans with MS and specific government resources that exist for them. I realized kind of quickly that I had been missing years of benefits and that there were more resources out there than I knew, but it was very hard for me to figure it all out. The more I thought about that, the more it bothered me, because when you're looking for a resource, it's probably because you're not doing well, because you need help, but the disease is cognitively challenging and exhausting. So we're asking veterans to take on another task when they’re already suffering from a disease that they got because they were in the service. 20

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What has been the impact in the two years since you founded the Veterans MS Alliance? For the past 20 years or so, there has been specific funding in the federal government that was going to MS research. In 2024, the funds were cut, stopping all of the incredible research and projects. We created a partnership between the National MS Society, the Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) and ourselves, and led our groups in coalition to voice the importance of the research that was being done and advocate for the funding, and it worked. The research is back up and running, which was a huge win for the MS world. I feel like with only two years of experience, we were crucially important in the story of eventually curing MS.

Marissa Warren recently served as Director of Corporate Partnerships with Feeding America. Its network consists of 250 partner food banks and affiliate partners, as well as 60,000 agency members. Marissa holds a bachelor of arts in journalism from DePaul University and a Baumhart Scholars MBA from Loyola University Chicago Quinlan School of Business. She’s the mother of current McAuley student, Noah Warren ‘28. What drew you and your daughter, Noah, to Mother McAuley when you were looking for the best high school fit, and what has been your experience as part of the McAuley community? I connected with the Mother McAuley Liberal Arts High School admissions team at a high school fair, and I was immediately drawn to its core values. The opportunity to further invest in my daughter by surrounding her with women and young leaders who are encouraged to use their voice, position, and resources to create impact and serve others was especially compelling. I knew that there was no need to look further! I value being part of a larger ecosystem where women are coached, celebrated, developed, trusted and inspired by one another, and empowered to take on any challenge. I intentionally partner with the staff at McAuley and appreciate the opportunities to share my background during annual career days. Why does the mission of Feeding America feel important? Our nation is witnessing rising food insecurity across the United States, persistent homelessness, and ongoing global conflicts. These realities underscore the urgency of our collective work.

LED BY MERCY

Caring for the Community through Social Impact

Mercy in Action Every summer, McAuley offers service immersion trips for rising seniors, providing an opportunity to act in the spirit of Mercy for communities in need throughout our country. Students return with a greater understanding of the issues people face and the ways in which they can serve and support those in need. “Going on the summer service trip was an opportunity of a lifetime. Being able to serve alongside my McAuley peers in a new environment was transforming; being forced outside my comfort zone where I was able to embrace the presences of daily life that I don’t always think about. I learned that an ordinary person like myself can have a big impact on someone else’s life when working for the good of all. The principles of prayer, service, community, and solidarity that I practiced there I try to incorporate more of into my everyday life. I saw how working on those values within a community made me feel then, and am inspired to continue growing in them at home and with other people. Reflecting on the meaning of service and the rippling effect it can have on the world around us has fostered a new passion of beliefs and values inside of me that I will carry on with me for my life.” - Kelly Quirk ‘26 Jerusalem Farm, Kansas City, MO

What has your work with Feeding America taught you? During my tenure at Feeding America and through the Baumhart Scholars program, I learned that this work requires unwavering cross-sector partnership. No single sector can operate in isolation to effectively address complex, deeply intertwined social issues. Where do you find joy in your work?

Hear from more participants in our digital issue of Inscape.

With more than a decade in social impact, I have had the privilege of working alongside some of the field’s most talented, committed, and innovative leaders. I am continually inspired by their fearlessness, creativity, and conviction, as well as by the next generation of leaders bringing new ideas, partnerships, and approaches to these challenges. I find joy in knowing I am playing my part in the larger story of life.

INSCAPE MAG A Z I NE

ENGAGING

Alumnae WITH EVENTS

There’s always a place for our alumnae on 99th Street! We continue to create opportunities for alumnae to reconnect, network, and strengthen their ties to the McAuley community. Learn more below, and scan the QR code to see a full list of events on our website.

2025 Decades Reunion

Celebrating the classes of 1985, 1995, 2005 and 2015

We had a great year welcoming nearly 1,000 alumnae back to McAuley for 12 events celebrating connection, community and the enduring spirit of our Mighty Macs. From reunions and networking gatherings to celebrations honoring leadership, legacy and service, each event created opportunities for alumnae across generations to reconnect, share memories and strengthen the McAuley sisterhood. Full of great conversation and meaningful connections, our attendees had a MIGHTY time all year long.

We saw alumnae from across all eight decades at events this year! 200 150 100 50 0

NUMBER OF ALUMNAE

250

50s

60s

70s

80s

90s

00s

10s

20s

Class of 1975 - 50th Reunion

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2026 Decades Reunion

Celebrating the classes of 1986, 1996, 2006 and 2016

2026 Celebration

ALUMNAE EVENTS

2025 McAuley Hall of Honor

Celebrating inductees (from left): Kellie O’Connell ‘94, Dr. Carrie Richardson ‘02, Hon. Gloria G. Coco ‘68, Laura Snow Gawlik, Patty Nedved, and Abbey Murphy ‘20*

Honoring Katie Schumacher-Cawley ‘97 with the 2026 Catherine McAuley Leadership Award

*pictured here is Abbey's mom, Lynne Murphy, who accepted the award on her behalf

2026 Women in Law Happy Hour

2025 Mercy Day of Giving

2026 Black Student Union Breakfast Thank you to Tyler Bentley ‘17, our keynote alumnae speaker!

Macs on the Road in Florida

2026 Career Day 40+ industries represented 90% of participants were alumnae 11% of participants are current or past parents 35 graduating classes were represented

2026 Legacy Luncheon Honoring classes 50+ years, with special recognition of the Class of 1966 on their 60th anniversary!

IN SCAPE MAG A Z I NE

ALUMNAE NOTES

1960s

1 Hon. Gloria G. Coco '68, ret. was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Italian American Political Coalition on March 12. Gloria Coco is the retired Supervising Judge of the Domestic Violence Section, of the First Municipal District of the Circuit Court of Cook County in Chicago, Illinois. Judge Coco was the first woman to become President of the Justinian Society of Lawyers, the Italian American Bar Association, which was chartered in 1921. She was also the first woman of full Italian American descent to ascend to the bench in the Circuit Court of Cook County in 1991.

1970s

2 Diane Twickler, M.D. ‘72 recently retired from Parkland Hospital and UT Southwestern Medical Center, where she served as a teaching professor in Radiology and Obstetrics & Gynecology. She was named Professor Emeritus of Radiology at UT Southwestern, an honorary title recognizing her distinguished career and contributions to the field. Dr. Twickler earned her undergraduate degree from University of Illinois Chicago and her medical degree from UT Southwestern.

In Loving Memory 24

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1980s

3 Kelly Blake Karstrand ‘86 was named the 2025-2026 Illinois World Language Teacher of the Year by the Illinois Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages. She was also a finalist for Central States WL Teacher of the Year. In addition, Kelly was chosen to be 1 of 4 representatives from Illinois to travel to Washington DC and participate in the 2026 Language Advocacy Days with the Joint National Committee for Languages & the National Council for Languages and International Studies. There she met with our state senators and representatives to advocate for continued support for language programs in our schools and Fulbright funding (Kelly is a Fulbright alumna).

1990s

Molly Maloney Kelly ‘91, Vice President of Operations at SPS Commerce, rang the closing bell at the Nasdaq in celebration of SPS Commerce's 100th consecutive quarter growth. 4 Meghan Morgan O'Kelley '95 is the Executive Director of the nonprofit, Girls in the Game, which provides sports, health and leadership programs in partnership with schools, parks and community centers in Chicago. She was featured on The Kelly Clarkson Show in April 2026, where she had the chance to share more about the organization.

We hold close the memory of the beloved alumnae, family, and friends who we have lost over the past year. As a community, we pray for those in mourning and join together to carry on the spirit of our loved ones.

5 Lisa Robinson LoBianco '01 was selected as the new President and CEO of Pillars Community Health. Pillars Community Health's mission is to improve the health of their communities and empower individuals through compassionate, whole-person care.

2010s

6 Mary Kate Kilroy Gehret ‘13 successfully defended her doctoral dissertation on the interplay between HER3 and mutant KRAS in colorectal cancer in July 2025 and was granted her PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences by the University of Cincinnati. As of October 2025, she began a new position as a staff scientist for the non-profit Wood Hudson Cancer Research Laboratory in Newport, Kentucky, where she aims to continue her work on researching drug resistance in gastrointestinal cancers.

GATHERINGS

ALUMNAE NOTES

2000s

10 Our group of Mighty Macs celebrated our 40th birthdays in Denver with an unforgettable white water rafting adventure. The group included: Shannon O’Malley Scanlan, Deirdre Sheahan Boudreau, Kara Roberts McKenna, Jackie Petrosius Wilcox, Nora Lyons, Colleen Byrne McMillan, Ashley McInerney Hansen, Meredith Obiala Simpson, Caroline Hart Skender, Beth O'Reilly Theisen, Lori Krull O'Grady, Maggie Funk Lyman, Barb Stumpf Warszalek (not pictured Nora Hickey Rhein, Meghan Quinn, Moira McClowry Garza), all from the Class of 2003! 11 We got together in Singapore to celebrate Melody Byrd’s 60th birthday. Included in the celebration were fellow class of 1983 alumnae Onjalique Clark, Tammy Herring, Yolanda Petty and Kimberly Price. On the far right is Melody’s sister Renee Byrd, class of 1984. 12 (from left) Karen Kubilius Washack ‘74, Nancy Roy, Maddie Singler Kelly ‘74, Julie McGrath Ryan ‘74, Laurie Waite Kokaisl ‘74, Sue Hanley Nicholson ‘74, Jenny Khym Pavilonis ‘74, and Sue Kerrigan Wilson ‘74 celebrated their 70th birthday by taking a cruise together!

7 Brenna Smith West ’13 was appointed as the Chief Executive Officer of Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan this spring. 8 Erin Larkin '17 was selected as the 2026 South Side Irish Parade Queen. Erin graduated from Augustana College with a BA in Music and Psychology and from Southern New Hampshire University with a MA in Mental Health Counseling and currently is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor.

2020s

9 For the first time in our school’s history, we have an Olympic Gold Medalist, Abbey Murphy '20. Representing Team USA Women’s Hockey, Abbey competed at the highest level with resilience and fearless determination, inspiring us all.

Read more MIGHTY updates from alumnae by scanning the QR code!

Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. You can view a listing of those we have lost by scanning the QR code.

INSCAPE MAG A Z I NE

ALUMNAE MARRIAGES

6 1 Aimee Jarzembowski ‘09 married Anthony Labriola on December 31, 2025.

2 Jessica Murray ‘09 married Jack Roach in London, UK, where they currently live, on October 11th, 2025. They were lucky to have a large group of friends and family travel across the pond from Chicago to celebrate with them. Fellow 2009 Mighty Macs in attendance include Caitlin Witry, Colleen Dixon Renardo, Britt Kawa Keffer, and Mary Kobiernicki Dohrmann. 3 Kathryn McCarthy ‘16 married Jack Landis on September 6, 2025 in Milwaukee, where they met at Marquette University. Her bridal party included Kara Hynes ‘16, Joy Rogers ‘16, Gabrielle Marback-Pehler ‘16, Allie Pater ‘16, Kelly McCasland ‘16, and her maid of honor, her sister, Lizzie McCarthy ‘15.

4 Asia Ester ‘16 married Travis Washington on May 5, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. Alumnae from both the Mother McAuley Class of 2016 and Brother Rice Class of 2016 were in attendance.

5 Mary Kate Kilroy ‘13 married Ryan Gehret on July 26, 2025 at St. Jerome Croatian Catholic Church in Chicago, where Mary Kate attended Croatian School on Saturday mornings from kindergarten through 8th grade and participated in their Croatian folk dance group on Wednesday nights during high school. 6 Erin Donovan ‘17 married Ryan Winkle, a 2017 grad of Brother Rice, on September 13, 2025. Erin shared: "My favorite thing about McAuley is the lifelong friendships I made during my time as a Mighty Mac. I was reminded of just how special these friendships are as I had six fellow Macs standing by my side on my wedding day last year - Colette Kennedy ‘17, Katie Carey ‘17, Julia McGivern ‘17, Clare Donovan ‘20, Mary Kate Boyle ‘18 and Emily Frost Kutt ‘17. We met walking the halls, and now we have the opportunity to watch each other walk down the aisle. I am so grateful that my time at Mother McAuley blessed me with the group of amazing women I call my best friends." Not pictured

SUM M E R 20 2 6

Amy Kobel ‘00 married Bob Schultz on June 21, 2024.

ALUMNAE NEWS

ALUMNAE BIRTHS & ADOPTIONS

1 Lizzie Chaps Green ‘08 and husband Ryan Green welcomed home baby Charlotte Green on October 22, 2025. Lizzie’s sister, Julie Chaps ‘11, is excited to be an aunt! 2 Victoria Martello Look ‘10, husband Robert Look, and big sister Francesca welcomed home baby Alessandra Irene Look on June 10, 2025. 3 Kate Murnane Korte ‘10, husband Matt Korte, and big sister Wren Korte welcomed home baby Eve Korte on July 27, 2025. 4 Marlee Tumpich Puljic ‘10, husband Tommy Puljic, and big sister Avalina (2) welcomed home twin girls, Matea and Lucia, on April 28, 2025. 5 Katie Corley Doeseckle ‘05 and husband Chris Doeseckle welcomed home baby Hunter Doeseckle on May 7, 2025. 3 These marriage, birth, and adoption notices were shared with McAuley between July 1, 2025 - May 31, 2026. All notices received after this date will be included in the 2027 issue of Inscape.

6 Caitlin Boline ‘04, husband Patrick Dospoy, and older sister Cahill welcomed home baby Chloe Nora Dospoy on October 4, 2024. 7 Beth Meyers Shibata '03, husband Sabu Shibata and big sister Brynn welcomed baby Samuel Joseph on February 24, 2025.

INSCAPE MAG A Z I NE

Class of 2026 100% accepted into college $72 million+ in scholarships and grants 195 graduates 28 Illinois State Scholars Accepted into 275 colleges and universities and attending 75 different institutions in the fall 33% of the graduating class are legacy students: 60 graduates have mothers, 16 have grandmothers and 1 has a great grandmother who graduated from Mother McAuley or Saint Xavier Academy

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2025-2026 SCHOOL YEAR HIGHLIGHTS

School NEWS Named to College Board's 2025 AP® School Honor Roll, earning Platinum distinction

Partnered with Young Hearts for Life to provide free electrocardiogram screenings (EKGs) for students

Cloaks of Compassion school-wide service project during Mercy Week Donated dozens of blankets to local nonprofit organizations serving immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers

2026 NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM National Merit Finalist Phoebe Mueller ‘26 Commended Students Magen Connolly ‘26, Maeve Emmons ‘26, Lucy Maloney ‘26, and Emily Mangin ‘26

Proudly offered the Sacrament of Confirmation to seven Mother McAuley students

Music/Theatre All-State Selections Gabi Mendez '26, Kruz Smith '27, Maddie Bernard '27 and Abby Hilburger '28 were selected to participate in the All-State Show Choir through the ACDA (American Choir Directors Association) Ryann O’Sullivan ‘27 and Grace Regalado ‘27 were selected for the 2026 All-State Production of Newsies at the 50th Annual Illinois High School Theater Festival; Ryan - Assistant Director; Grace - Cast Member Emily Dooey '26 and Ava Soukup '27 were selected to participate in the ILMEA All State Choir

Macs LEAD Club participated in the Polar Plunge with Brother Rice raising over $13,000 - the second highest amount raised by any high school!

SCHOOL NEWS

Hosted our inaugural Fine Arts Signing Celebration in honor of seven senior students who committed to pursuing fine arts in college

14 student athletes signed letters of intent to compete collegiately 19 students represented Mother McAuley at the 2026 Illinois High School Art Exhibition (IHSAE) hosted by Art ConnectED Mariachi Herencia de Mexico performed with Mother McAuley's very own Mariachi club during our Hispanic Heritage Month Prayer Service

Featured on WGN’s Drive Thru Toy Drive during the holiday season

GCAC CONFERENCE PLAYER OF THE YEAR Cayla Prohaska ‘26 Volleyball Quinn Arundel ‘26 Basketball

10 visual art students were named 2025 Regional Scholastic Art and Writing Award recipients

Wyndel Ellis ‘26 Water Polo

Competitive Cheer competed in the IHSA State Competition for the second year in a row

Regional Championships GOLF | VOLLEYBALL | BASKETBALL | SOCCER | SOFTBALL Sold-out weekend of Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

Olympics Watch Party - Mighty Macs cheered on Abbey Murphy ‘20 during the 2026 Olympic Women’s Hockey gold medal game in the student lounge

Math Macs competed in the State Math Contest INSCAPE MAG A Z I NE

WAYS TO

Give Join us in

EMPOWERING the next generation of MIGHTY LEADERS: mighty smart, mighty ambitious, and mighty compassionate.

Mighty Macs graduate with unshakeable confidence and strong Catholic, Mercy values. Your gift will support our students and the environment that encourages them to learn, explore, lead, and become their authentic selves. Unrestricted Gift to the McAuley Fund A gift to the McAuley Fund is used where it is needed the most and helps enrich academic, art, music, technology, athletic, and ministry programs; financial aid; and operational expenses.

Scholarship and Financial Aid A gift will have a direct impact on a student’s ability to attend McAuley.

Event Sponsorship and Participation Our Fore the Mac Golf Outing, McAuley Hall, Celebration, and Mercy Day of Giving are just a few of the events open to sponsorship and attendance. Scan the QR code for more information on upcoming events!

Catherine’s Garden Commemorative Bricks are a beautiful way to honor or remember a special person, family, team, or event. Three sizes are available: Standard $200 (8x7), Large $300 (8x14), and Seating Stone $500 (14x8)

Planned Giving The opportunity to ensure McAuley’s mission remains strong through deferred gifts, such as life insurance, IRAs, wills, and trusts.

Matching Gift Program Check with your employer about their Giving Program. There may be an opportunity to multiply the impact of your gift.

Let us help tailor a giving experience that is right for you. Please contact: Mary Larkin Cunningham '08 mcunningham@mothermcauley.org (773) 881-6557 Make a gift today by scanning the QR code!

30 SU M M E R 20 2 6

Join us at McAuley! All events are located at McAuley unless otherwise noted.

2026 Tuesday

MacTails at Tiny Tapp

July 21

Location: Tiny Tapp, 55 W Riverwalk, Chicago, IL 60601

Fore the Macs Golf Outing

Honoring the Danny Did Foundation with the 2026 Caring Heart Award Location: Ridge Country Club 10522 S California Ave, Chicago, IL 60655

Thursday

August 20

Thursday

September 24

Friday

October 16

Class of 1976 50th Reunion

Thursday

October 29

Not-So-Haunted House

Thursday

December 10

Mercy Day of Giving

McAuley Hall of Honor Induction

2027 Friday

January 29

Career Day Black Student Union Breakfast

Tuesday

February 23

This breakfast is a MIGHTY celebration of Black History Month, hosted by our Black Student Union

Celebration 2027

Thursday

March 4

Location: Union League Club Chicago 65 W Jackson Blvd, Chicago, IL 60604

Decades Reunion

Friday

April 30

Classes of 1987, 1997, 2007, and 2017 Get ready to celebrate!

Events are subject to change, and more events may be added to the calendar. Be sure to check our website for all up-to-date information and registration! Get involved at McAuley! Join us as we expand our Women in Law network, and as we build a Young Professionals group that would focus on networking, social opportunities, mentorship, and ways to stay engaged with McAuley. Sign up and learn more by scanning the QR code!

INSCAPE MAG A Z I NE

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70 years and beyond.

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