View from the Cupola - Winter 2020

Cupola VIE W F RO M TH E

MOUNT DE SALES ACADEMY MA RCH 2020 | WIN TER View from the Cupola | 1

Board of Trustees Executive Board Brian P. MacLean P’14 | President Thomas Campbell P’14 | Vice President Kate Ohlmacher McAuliffe ’02 | Treasurer Elizabeth Gibbons Jennings ’80 P’12 ’19 | Secretary Sister Mary Raymond Thye, O.P. | Principal General Board Thomas Brinker P’16 ’20 ’22 Christopher P. Brown, Esq. P’04 ’08 Larraine Clark P’02 Reverend Michael DeAscanis Ronald C. Diegelman P’00 Timothy Dignan P’12 ’14 Paul M. Finamore, Esq. P’11 ’16 William Glover P’15 Kim Martel P’00 ’02 ’08 ’15 Lynda Geier Mules ’77 P’05 ’13 Peggy Stromberg Pasquarella ’81 Jackie Seboda Pfeiler ’86 P’23 Reverend Michael J.P. Roach John Teixeira James Zalucki, M.D. P’12 ’15 ’20

Advancement Team Elizabeth Saverino ’87 | Director of Advancement Karen von Lange P’09 ’16 | Director of Communications Claire M. Cohagan ’78 P’07 ’11 | Director of Development Virginia Shenk | Development Coordinator Denise Zambotti P’15 ’17 ’19 | Development Assistant Elizabeth Mahon ’07 | Director of Alumnae Relations Kim Dignan P’12 ’14 | Volunteer Coordinator Rachel Sweeney | Graphic Designer

Cover Photo: Naomi Brinker'20

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greetings From our Principal Dear Friends of Mount de Sales Academy, Within our community of faith and learning, the importance of relationships distinguishes how we live out our mission. We are made by God who is love and exists in an eternal relationship of love; therefore, we find true happiness when our relationships are primary. Let me begin by thanking you for your friendship with Mount de Sales.

Because we value your partnership and wish to deepen our relationship with you, we want to share with you glimpses of the life and hope experienced day to day at Mount de Sales.

Communication is foundational for communion.

God desires a profound relationship with us, so much so that "the Word became flesh and dwelt among us" (John 1:14). God wants to connect with us, and this requires the most powerful form of communication: presence. Just as we learn how to be present to others by encountering God in prayer, we learn how to be with God by engaging with one another.

Here at Mount de Sales we constantly strive to foster meaningful relationships. Whether through a student club, an athletic team, a special school event, or an integrated use of technology, our goal is to communicate our faith, values, and virtues to help our students experience life to the full. This defining value led us to our current Middle States Accreditation research project, studying how to integrate technology while maintaining quality personal interactions in the classroom.

Since integrating our 1:1 technology program, the past five years have been a time of great learning, creativity, challenges, and successes. As we look forward to our project’s culminating Middle States Colloquium on March 30, 2020, we find the insights gained benefit not only our own students, but also our families and the larger community.

If we want to deepen our capacities for personal growth and authentic communication, simple changes can have a great impact. Intentional practices such as not letting technology interrupt conversations, turning off all technology during meals, and setting a time to shut down devices each evening can be transformative. Our students are often relieved not to carry cell phones at school as they experience how this enables meaningful conversations throughout the day. May I suggest that you try this with your families? If so, you may be surprised by the results!

We are excited to share our findings with the wider community at the Colloquium and hope that our efforts will bless the Baltimore region and beyond.

For, as we enrich our capacities to communicate with one another and build stronger relationships, we likewise grow in wonder and gratitude for the relationship God desires to have with each of us.

Sincerely in Christ,

Sister Mary Raymond, O.P.

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Academics Love of wisdom One of Mount de Sales Academy’s distinctive marks is a constant openness to the best means of helping young women grow to meet the challenges of life with depth and strength. Among our new initiatives is the development of a philosophy program to enable our students to gain wisdom and insight, empowering them to navigate life and choices with clarity.

In this first year of the new philosophy program, students are studying the Philosophy of the Human Person. This course is rooted in the classical tradition of thought from great philosophers such as Aristotle and Saint Thomas Aquinas. In keeping with Socrates’ famous insight that “Wisdom begins in wonder,” classes begin with quotes from famous thinkers and reflection questions.

While building a new vocabulary and way of thinking takes time and study, the students have quickly grown in appreciation of foundational concepts. In class we viewed and discussed the documentary, The Human Experience. One student reflected about those suffering from disease, “They perceived their situation as an obstacle in their lives, but not as detrimental to their human dignity…

They discovered their human dignity through people who treated them with respect and love.” Discussing how the film study affected her thinking, another student stated, “I feel more humble and thankful for everything I have…. especially my loving family and friends… No matter who a person is on the outside, we are all united by our humanity and are equal in dignity.”

Throughout the semester the students have been building a Human Dignity Portfolio by analyzing cultural artifacts through the lens of common themes. These

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themes include body/soul unity, human dignity at all stages of life, and the uniqueness of the rational soul. Their artifacts have included songs, poems, film clips, videos, poems, and advertisements.

The students have worked in pairs or groups to apply their philosophical understanding to the messages presented in our culture. Contrasting an ad that implied the lack of human dignity and rights of unborn children with an ad that positively portrayed care for the elderly, one group wrote, “Human dignity is not based on how much one performs or produces but on the fact that God gave each of us an immortal soul that establishes our true human dignity, beyond consideration of age.” The students will present their portfolios of artifacts and analyses with their own creative projects as a culminating experience.

As the philosophy program grows and develops, we look forward to the ways it will shape our students' thinking and the culture of our school. Deacon Jim Tittinger P '22 wrote, regarding the impact of the program on his daughter, “I appreciate you fostering her desire for God and challenging her to use her intellect and reason in that search. She finds pleasure in the material—especially the new philosophy material, as she grasps how it will underlie and be used to study, discuss and formulate arguments about the person and contemporary issues. What a great idea for MDSA to teach philosophy to our young ladies!”

By: Sister Mary Madeline, O.P. '90 Religion Department Chair

Strategies to Strengthen Our Young People in Today's Technological World Keynote Speaker:

Sister Marysia Weber, R.S.M, D.O., M.A. Sister Marysia is a Religious Sister of Mercy and board certified physician in psychiatry. She trained at the Mayo Clinic and also holds a master’s degree in theology from Notre Dame University. She offers workshops on various topics, including social media and its effects on the brain. Sister is the author of “Screen Addiction: Why You Can’t Put that Phone Down.”

All are welcome! Join us for an evening of learning.

MONDAY, MARCH 30, 2020

6:30 p.m.

RSVP by March 24, 2020 to reception@mountdesales.org

Constance and Samuel Pistorio Sports Complex

"Where did the Conversation Go?" Middle States Sustaining Excellence Colloquium View8:30 from the Cupola |5 A day of exploration at MDSA for educators and distinguished guests on Monday, March 30, 2020, from a.m.–3:00 p.m.

Patrick with his sisters – all MDSA graduates!

Meg '15, Sarah '02, Patrick, Elizabeth '00, and Katie '08

meet Patrick Martel Our New Sacred Heart Program Director What is your educational background?

My undergraduate degree is in English, communications and technology from University of Maryland, Baltimore County (with a pre-dental certificate). I have two master’s degrees, one in liberal arts from Johns Hopkins University, and the other is in secondary education, English and special education, dual certification from Notre Dame of Maryland University.

What are your goals and aspirations for MDSA students and your new leadership role?

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My goal with every student I teach is to help her reach her full potential. Teaching kids is, in one respect, easy, because I see so much in them that they don’t seem to realize they have.

The apex of a teacher’s career is what I call the “dawning moment of comprehension,” that moment when a student suddenly connects the dots, gets something, really realizes what he or she is capable of. It doesn’t take long to realize how much knowledge, thought, and love the incredible MDSA faculty puts into their instruction. I am hoping to be a faculty resource to help them best convey content to each student.

What do you think are the biggest obstacles facing young adults with learning disabilities?

One hurdle we have is addressing the stigma that hangs like a ghost around disability services. People often have the deep misconception that it is for people who are not smart. In reality, the goal of disability services is to address gaps that appear between a student’s intelligence and her grades, which are caused by a specific set of neurological conditions. The idea is that if we can address those areas directly, just like corrective lenses adjust for irregularities on the cornea, then the student will be able to “see” things clearly, and then she will also be able to be seen more clearly.

Do you have any interesting hobbies?

I have too many. I coach varsity tennis at Mount Saint Joseph High School. I am a songwriter and enjoy sound production and digital audio workstations. I mountain bike and love reading philosophy.

G.I.R.L. Club One of Mount de Sales’ newest clubs is the G.I.R.L. Club (Girls’ Initiative for Rising Leaders). The G.I.R.L. Club focuses on fostering leadership qualities through interactive workshops and encountering strong, empowered women within various professions through guest speakers.

Founded in 2018 by myself, Maggie Dressman '20, and my fellow senior classmates, Abby Lamm, Hope Keller, and Paige Rivers, we all knew we wanted to make an impact at our school before graduating. So, we formed a club that would give the members tools to succeed after leaving Mount de Sales. We seek to teach club members to utilize their talents and reach their ultimate potential, and that they all can be leaders in their own way, no matter their future endeavors. Abby Lamm '20 reflects that she is “proud to have founded a club that promotes female leadership.”

The club brings in many guest speakers, including alumna Elise Crawford Gallagher '09, a business and non-profit organization founder; Hope Keller’s mother Kerri Keller P’20, a health coach; and alumna Kelly Cardall '93, a current MDSA drama and physical education teacher. They covered topics such as balancing life priorities, communication skills, body language, and public speaking. Paige Rivers '20 states, “The G.I.R.L. Club has taught me to never doubt yourself when you want to achieve something. It can be as small as working to improve on public speaking skills or as big as creating a club that will benefit younger students with confidence, wisdom, and humility.”

Left to right: Hope Keller '20, Maggie Dressman '20, Abby Lamm '20, Paige Rivers '20

Above all, the G.I.R.L. Club wants each member to know that she represents a unique puzzle piece in this world. When our pieces come together, we can make real change.

By: Maggie Dressman '20 View from the Cupola | 7

Faith

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An opportunity to grow A Reflection on Service The phrase “service hours” is usually accompanied by groans and sighs. There is a stigma that surrounds service; it’s considered boring, burdensome, and time-consuming.

However, service is so much more than just an assignment to complete: service is an opportunity to grow. I have come to understand the benefits of service through my Mount de Sales service hours, which have helped me come out of my comfort zone for the well-being of others.

Over the past three years at Mount de Sales, I have found myself attending more service opportunities, such as walking to the Hillcrest Abortion Clinic or making lunches for a nearby homeless shelter, just for the sake of it. This year as a junior, I am now required to go to the same service location every quarter, which honestly seemed a bit scary at first. However, I discovered The Therapeutic and Recreational Riding Center in Glenwood, Maryland, and my experience has been the opposite of scary.

I wanted my service this year to match my interests, and the riding center coincided with my experience with horses. Once I started volunteering, I felt at peace. When I volunteer, I take care of the horses by making sure they have enough water and hay, clean stalls, and, if the horses are scheduled for a lesson, I tack them up to be ridden.

During the lessons I assist in every shift. I either lead the horse or physically support the rider if he or she has trouble staying in position on the horse. Though my arms may become tired or I may feel as though I’ve been walking in circles forever, I love seeing the riders grow in skill and strength. When they smile or accomplish a difficult task, I can see Christ through their joy and effort.

Even when I get dirty and tired, I find peace and happiness in my work and obtaining service hours becomes just an additional perk. I’m glad Mount de Sales has given me a nudge out of my comfort zone; I’ve received so much by giving to others.

By: Grace Gunther ’21 View from the Cupola | 9

Welcome, Madison Bolesta '13 A Conversation With Our New Campus Minister

What was your path to campus ministry?

My time at Mount de Sales Academy changed my life and played a significant role in my relationship with Christ. I loved my religion classes, but the things I learned took on an even deeper meaning when I saw my teachers living what they taught. Their witnesses strongly impacted me and my walk with the Lord.

When it came time to decide on a college and major, I wanted to dedicate my life to helping people encounter Christ in the same way my teachers helped me.

I went to Franciscan University of Steubenville to study theology and catechetics, and while there I became very involved in women’s ministry. I loved facilitating retreats and events where women could grow deeper in their relationship with Christ and learn about their unique identity as beloved daughters of God. After graduating I spent two years working in parish youth ministry. Those few years helped me grow professionally, introduced me to amazing people, and ultimately led me back to Mount de Sales.

What do you hope to bring to the MDSA campus ministry program?

I hope to offer a welcoming and joyful space where our girls know they are wanted, they are necessary, and they are loved.

Our students learn many incredible things in their classes, and my hope is to support what they are already learning and help bring it to life. Campus ministry facilitates many opportunities such as retreats, service projects, liturgies, and even simple days where girls hang out in the campus ministry office after school.

I hope that both the simple and the profound times constantly remind our girls what Pope St. John Paul II once said, that “life with Christ is a wonderful adventure.” My prayer is that through campus ministry offerings, our girls will see that welcoming Christ into their lives will bring them more joy, more peace, and more abundant life than they could ever imagine.

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How has your work as campus minister impacted your own faith?

Alumnae

Speaker Series

In more ways than I can count! Most of all, I want to be a witness to our girls of a life well-lived for Christ. My prayer every day is that the girls will see Jesus in me, and my life can be a witness of the joy and peace that come from giving yourself to Christ every day. If ever I’m tempted to mediocrity in my own spiritual life, I think of this ministry and these girls and am inspired once again to pursue Christ with everything I have.

What is it like ministering at your alma mater?

It is wonderful! I have always loved Mount de Sales, so it is a gift to work in the place that changed my life. It has also proven helpful in ministry because I know where the girls are coming from. I personally experienced much of what they are experiencing now, which I think has helped me connect with them in a unique way. I participated in the rich traditions of our school; I felt the weight of the academic challenges; and I even had some of the same teachers the girls have now!

I didn’t think it was possible to love Mount de Sales more than I did as a student, but in these past few months I have grown to appreciate this school more than ever. It is incredibly humbling to work alongside our amazing faculty and staff to support the mission of Mount de Sales. Everyone who works here cares deeply about our students and about each other. I’ve seen firsthand how much effort they put into helping these girls flourish.

Do you have any interesting hobbies or interests?

In my free time, I enjoy practicing hand lettering and modern calligraphy. Many of our students share that interest, so I’ve started teaching calligraphy in my office after school once a week. It’s so fun to share that with our girls.

The Alumnae Relations Department at Mount de Sales hosted its first installment of the Speaker Series on Thursday, January 30. Our Campus Minister Madison Bolesta '13, gave a poignant talk titled Come and Abide with Me, which was centered on the Gospel of John 15. She spoke of her personal challenges and articulated various ways to remain close to Christ in spite of the busyness of life. In discussion afterward, the multi-generational group of women in attendance agreed that it was refreshing to come back to Mount de Sales, a place where they spent such formative years, for more spiritual enrichment and community.

The second Speaker Series in 2020 is scheduled for Friday, June 5, at 7 p.m. Director of Alumnae Relations Elizabeth Mahon '07 will give a presentation on the History and Heritage of Mount de Sales Academy.

To register, go to https://www. mountdesalesacademy.org/alumnae.

The Speaker Series is geared to alumnae, but open to the entire Mount de Sales community. We hope that you will join us for this engaging evening!

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Arts capturing the essence of life in Pen and ink Each year, all Portfolio students complete the Mount de Sales pen and ink assignment where they capture some aspect of life at MDSA in ink. The students learn what goes into making art for publication, as many of their pieces are used for various promotions throughout the school year. This year the students were challenged to make their pictures more compelling by “peopling� them.

Adding the human figure into any artwork helps to make the picture tell a story. I am so proud of how many students included the human figure in their work. They have captured the essence of life at Mount de Sales in a beautiful and meaningful way.

Lindsay Small '22

By: Eileen Clements | Fine Arts Chair

Ella Jendrick '22

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Annamarie Walther '22

Emily Oh '22

Anna Gibbons '20

Avery Griesbach '21

Elizabeth Dodd '22

Abby Goodman '20

Maria Ramos '20

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Matilda

the musical The Mount de Sales annual winter musical beautifully depicted the themes of hope, forgiveness, and the dignity of the human person. Based on Roald Dahl’s award-winning novel, Matilda is the story of a bright little girl who rises above her difficult circumstances, discovering along the way the power of education and the miracle of life.

The audience was treated to an incredible performance by Naomi Brinker '20 in the leading role.

Naomi showed Matilda's bravery, resilience, and bold spirit along with her beautiful voice and expert dance skills. Maya Nellum '20 played the sweet and kind Miss Honey who helps rescue Matilda through her love of books (aided by Olivia Rees '20 playing the role of librarian Mrs. Phelps) and her gentleness. Theresa Kirby '20 was amazing as the evil, hammer-throwing Miss Trunchbull. Ana Novotny '20, Cynthia Vazquez '20, and Katerina Balick '21 all gave outstanding performances as Matilda's friends, Bruce, Nigel, and Lavender.

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Playing the villainous Mrs. Wormwood was Isabelle Somma '21, who wowed the crowd with her "Loud" number, accompanied by the hilarious Rudolpho (Patrick Scott MSJ '21). Rounding out the family was Austin Wisniewski MSJ '20 as the awful, green-haired Mr. Wormwood, and Sean Hurley MSJ '20 providing comic relief as Michael Wormwood. The large cast of high school students took on roles as small school children and adults alike.

The Mount de Sales theatre arts class, taught by Kelly Cardall '93, designed and created much of the whimsical set, including 3D letters covered in book pages and a rolling library. Led by music teacher Jeff Hosier, the pit band did a fantastic job with the exciting score, bringing the audience to their feet after the rollicking "Revolting Children." From a magical blackboard, to a flying student, to "the most dangerous feat ever known to man," Matilda the Musical was truly a spectacular show!

By: Angela Romeo ’94 P’18 Producer/Choreographer/Dance Teacher

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Athletics Volleyball Team Rallies the Win! It did not take long in my first year of coaching to learn Mount de Sales volleyball is more than volleyball: it is a family. As I met the players and parents, I learned how true it was. Volunteer Nancy Foster caught me up on the many traditions at MDSA. From sleepovers, to pool parties, to a trip to watch a Johns Hopkins’ match, much of volleyball at MDSA

revolves around having fun as a team. The players also study hard and involve themselves within the community. Seven teammates are National Honor Society members.

Varsity and junior varsity took time to paint mugs for cancer patients, and players and parents donated articles and raised money for Little Sisters of the Poor. Parent and fan support is above anything I have seen. Not only do parents support their student-athletes, but fans also include past studentathletes, their parents, and supporters of the school.

From the first practice, the team’s potential was evident.

Players worked hard and supported each other. Preseason scrimmages gave a preview of future success.

Our first loss of the season was to a very good Broadneck High School 4A finalist for

the State of Maryland. Our players came away with a renewed confidence knowing they could compete with the top teams in the state.

MDSA went on to win every 5-set match until they lost in the last match against a competitive Maryvale team.

MDSA won Conference Regular Season with a 13-1 record, playing and defeating Maryvale in a 5-set championship match.

MDSA won the first two sets, losing sets 3 and 4 to set up a dramatic 5th set. After trailing 2-8, 4-9, 6-11, MDSA came back to win 15-13 on a match-ending kill by Mary Grace Goyena, her 410th kill of the season.

By: Coach Gary Troy

Lacrosse Founders Celebrated In 1890, the first women’s lacrosse game was played at the St. Leonard’s School in Scotland and came to the United States in 1926 when the Bryn Mawr School in Baltimore established its first team. It took more than 50 years and two driven coaches to bring the sport to Mount de Sales Academy.

In 1977, Bill Held P'89 and Warren Gemmill P’77 ‘79 approached the principal and proposed starting a women’s lacrosse team at Mount de Sales Academy. With approval, MDSA ushered in its first lacrosse season in the spring of 1978, and by 1979 the Sailors won their first Catholic League Championship.

The coaching team was commonly referred to as the “Dynamic Duo” throughout the years.

On Saturday, October 13, a moving tribute and legacy lacrosse game was held to celebrate founder Bill Held and the memory of his longtime friend and assistant coach, Warren Gemmill. We are grateful to Eric Pfeiler P'23, in his fifth year as MDSA lacrosse coach, for spearheading this event. Alumnae and current students gathered for the game.

It was especially meaningful to Warren Gemmill’s daughters Reenie Gemmill Johnson '79 and Kathy Gemmill Stromberg '77 and the Held family.

The keynote speaker was former MDSA Hall of Fame lacrosse player and Board of Trustee member Jackie Seboda Pfeiler '86 P'23. Jackie shared, “For all of us here, sports are such an important part of our lives. We spend a lot of time with teammates and coaches. Bill is one of those coaches that you never forget.

His love and passion for the game is second to none. He turned athletes into lacrosse players.” Regarding Mr. Gimmel, she added, “As Bill has said, if God were to come down to earth, I would envision him as Warren Gemmill—a truly amazing, loving and kind person. All of us who knew him are better people because of him.”

Bill’s daughter, Jenny Held Miller '89, followed in his footsteps and also coached at MDSA with Bill as her assistant. The Held legacy is still very much alive at MDSA. Look for Bill Held on his bench this spring!

1978 Lacrosse Team

Commemorative plaque on coaches' bench

Back Row: Amy Burdette '90 P'21, Amy Donahue '95, Therese Alagna '82, Susan Pugh '81, Lisa Vogel '95, Christy Baronas '96. Middle Row: Alleesha Dandson '85, Lynda Majerowicz '87, Beth Saverino '87, Linda Teodosio '79, Peggy Pasquerella '81, Jackie Pfeiler '86 P'23, Jenny Miller '89. Front Row: Kathy Stromberg '77, Maureen Johnson '79, Luba Held P'89, Bill Held P'89.

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Athlete recognition event On November 13, 2019, Mount de Sales celebrated the seniors who will play collegiate sports at the Athlete Recognition Event. We are proud of our Sailor athletes and all their accomplishments.

Field Hockey Kathryn Ringstad – Mercy University Hope Keller – Roanoke College Lacrosse Mackenzie Bell – Robert Morris University Sloane Skalstad – Fresno State University Mary Kate Allen – Mercer University Ella Spears – Monmouth University Samantha Zalucki – Messiah College Track/Cross Country Bella Whittaker – University of Pennsylvania

Left to right: Hope Keller, Samantha Zalucki, Mackenzie Bell, Sloane Skalstad, Ella Spears, Mary Kate Allen, Bella Whittaker, and Kathryn Ringstad

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The Athlete Recognition Event was held in the Constance and Samuel Pistorio Sports Complex on the Mount de Sales Academy campus.

Student athletes were joined by their parents, coaches, members of the MDSA administration, faculty, and staff, as well as their peers. A brief reception followed.

this sailor’s on fire!

Juliette Whittaker ’22 Juliette Whittaker began her indoor track season late this year. On December 14, she traveled to San Diego to compete in the Footlocker National Cross Country Championship. She is the first Sailor ever to compete in this championship, and she placed 13th among the top 40 runners in the nation. The top 15 are designated All American.

After a brief rest, she next ran the 800 meters on December 30, at the Frostbite Invitational, where her time of 2:07.54 was number two in the United States (U.S.). January 4 found her in New York where, at the Armory in the Bronx, she won the mile in 4:44.75 at the Hispanic Games, making her number one in the U.S. in that event. Along the way she became U.S. number one in the 1500 meters with a time of 4:26.59. January 11 brought her to the Montgomery Invitational in Landover, MD, where she ran 10:23.14 for the 3200 meters, also a U.S. number one performance. This remarkable stretch of running gained her an automatic invitation to compete in the High School Girls’ Mile at the prestigious Millrose Games in New York. At the Millrose Games Juliette improved on her best mile time, lowering it to 4:43.89. She placed second overall.

Juliette’s calm focus as she runs has come to the notice of track commentators everywhere.

By: Coach Steve Weber

Gatorade Maryland Athletes of the Year Cross Country: Juliette Whittaker ’22 Volleyball: Mary Grace Goyena ’21

Photo credit to Brandon Miles at MileSplit.com

“Juliette Whittaker embodies the Sailor spirit: she is morally grounded, empathetic, and respectful. She remains humble with her successes, looks out for her teammates, and always has a smile on her face.

As an Athletic Director, I am grateful to have hardworking, knowledgeable, and dedicated coaches for the indoor/ outdoor track and cross country programs, including Suzanna Ribblett P'21, Dennis Maher P'15, Mathew Riggins and, of course, Steve Weber.”

Eric Dummann | Athletic Director

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Advancement

president of the board updates Dear Friends of Mount de Sales Academy: With spring in the air and the Center for Performing Arts and Student Life (CPASL) rising from the ground, we look forward to exciting new beginnings. At Mount de Sales Academy, we remember the challenges faced in the 1970s and 1980s. We continue to admire the sacrifices and perseverance of so many, and we reach this point in time with tremendous gratitude. So, as we begin a new decade, we also reflect on accomplishments of Mount de Sales Academy over the last 20 years.

This new millennium saw blossoming enrollment that provided the strong foundation to consider expanding our facilities. The timeline below helps us all appreciate how far we have come in such a short period of time. Very importantly, MDSA is currently debt free because of our benefactors’ selfless generosity in supporting all the capital improvements.

With CPASL construction in full gear, we depend on financial support from within and outside our community to complete this project with as little debt as possible. We strive to raise a minimum of $6M for this project, currently at $5.37M. Every donation above and beyond our $6M goal

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2011

2013

Phase I Convent, Campus Security, and HVAC Completed

Phase II Turf Athletic Field Completed

will allow MDSA to reduce funds borrowed to complete the CPASL, a project that will touch and provide opportunities for every student.

The CPASL is the final phase of campus facility enhancements achieved over years of planning.

While we celebrate that construction is underway, we should also be proud of all the major projects planned for and completed to provide our students and community the best possible resources.

Please stay tuned for updates on our progress on the CPASL. As always, we thank you and look forward to your continued support.

To make a gift to the Center for Performing Arts and Student Life, please contact Beth Saverino ’87 at 410.744.8498 ext. 139 or esaverino@mountdesales.org. You can also visit mountdesalesacademy.org for more information.

Sincerely,

Brian MacLean President, Board of Trustees

Summer 2017 Gate House Renovation Completed

Center for Performing Arts and Student Life (CPASL) rendering as envisioned by Rubeling & Associates, a division of JMT.

CPASL site as of February 21, 2020

CPASL Construction Team gathered in Gate House conference room

Summer 2018

Summer 2018

Summer 2019

Phase III B-Side Fourth Floor Renovation Completed

Phase III A-Side Chapel Expansion Completed

Phase III CPASL Construction Begins!

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Spotlight on Scholarships The Power of Faithful Generosity In 2014, Mount de Sales Academy partnered with an anonymous benefactor to establish the Semper Fi Scholarship. Named in memory of the many Marines who remain “always faithful” to God, country, and the Corps, the Semper Fi Scholarship acknowledges and supports those families who have been faithful to the Catholic Church. Student recipients are selected based on an application in which parents and students describe how they live and model their Catholic faith, as well as a pastor’s letter. Financial need is a consideration for this scholarship along with the other criteria.

“Not only does this scholarship help my family very much, but it also inspires me to grow even deeper in my Catholic faith through my studies at Mount de Sales. I truly believe that my faith will guide me to help the Church in many ways throughout my time in high school.” Emily ‘23 “Being a recipient of this scholarship is one of the reasons that I can attend a Catholic school for the first time in my life.” Zikora ‘23 “Over the past three years, your generous gifts have helped me be able to attend MDSA. At MDSA, I have discovered myself. I have found wonderful friends who feel more like family…. Through Mount de Sales, I have been able to find God in so many ways.” Natalie ‘21 22 | View from the Cupola

This year we celebrate the fifth anniversary of the Semper Fi Scholarship. In 2015, 27 students received the first Semper Fi Scholarships. Five years later, 169 scholarships totaling $192,000 have been awarded to deserving and faithful Sailors. This has been one of the broadest reaching donor-funded scholarships in our history, with nearly 10% of students in 20192020 benefitting.

In a thank you note to her anonymous Semper Fi benefactor last year, Josie ’21 writes, “As I finish my second year here, I know this is the perfect school for me, and because of your generosity I know I can continue here.”

Through the generosity of our always faithful friend, Mount de Sales has been given the gift of amazing students who, otherwise, may have been unable to attend. We are incredibly grateful for this benevolence that opens doors to our students and brings our mission to life. *Emily Spedden’s name was erroneously omitted from the Class of 2023 Semper Fi Scholarship recipient list featured in the 2019 graduation View from the Cupola. We apologize for this oversight.

Welcome to the Knott Foundation

In November, we welcomed to campus Kelly Medinger, Kathleen McCarthy, and Carol Hoffman from The Marion I. & Henry J. Knott Foundation.

During their visit, we were delighted to share the impact of their 35-year partnership with Mount de Sales Academy. Their most recent capital campaign grant of $116,477 funded the fourth-floor classroom renovations, and past awards supported the 1:1 technology program, HVAC system, and multiple building maintenance and renovation projects, including Alumnae Hall. Thousands of Sailors have benefitted from the transformative generosity of the Knott Foundation. We cannot thank the Knott Foundation enough for the lasting impact they have had and continue to have at Mount de Sales Academy!

Annual Giving: Acts of Love

“Your kind donations speak to your loving devotion and reveal your presence behind the scenes to create opportunities where they would otherwise not exist.” Julie '20 “The LORD is near to all who call upon Him.” Psalm 145:18 God has answered our call through the generosity of our friends and families. While our Catholic faith is the center of all that we do, our generous community is the foundation on which we can build our mission. THANK YOU for being an answer to our prayers through your acts of love and the giving of your time, talent, and treasure.

This school year,* we are grateful for: • 267 new and returned** donors, 45% of whom are alumnae!

• 54% of donors who increased or maintained their level of giving • 83 donors who gave in honor or in memory of a loved one *Figures reflect donations received between 7/1/2019-12/31/2019. **Donors whose previous gift was two or more years ago.

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Alumnae News

Alumnae spotlight Light of Sunday – Geena Cooley Harrington '09 In high school I was a frequent thorn in the side of my teachers. My teachers and coaches tried to intervene, but at 15 (and regrettably still at 18) I was everything except reasonable.

Nevertheless, God was at work! Ten years after graduation, I’m now 28 and the mother of three. There are two lessons from Mount de Sales that still influence and guide me. These simple lessons touched a spirit as rebellious as mine: 1. Freshman theology with Sister Mary Paul: Naming of the Articles of the Mass 2. Senior morality with Ms. Duffy: “True freedom is the ability to know the truth and choose the good.”

My first year at Mount de Sales I learned the articles of the Mass. This lesson in nomenclature captivated me. I attended Catholic school and Mass my entire life, yet this was the first time I matched a name to the vessel that holds the Body of Christ: the ciborium. It confirmed truths in me that, before, I did not have words for. Sister’s simple lesson placed on my heart a love that continues to spiral today. In college, I became a sacristan. As a young mother, I attended daily Mass with my children. Ten years later, in 2018, it led me to my ministry with Light of Sunday.

Last year, my kids and I sat on the floor reading a baby’s first words book.

Unexpectedly, I felt a flame! “We need a

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book like this for little ones,” I thought. A book like this, but beautiful… and no baby talk!” What if little ones didn’t have to wait to learn these things as I had?

Light of Sunday is a Montessori-inspired board book that uses mixed-media to teach over 40 articles of the Mass. It is my first book and part of a ministry that will continue to grow in His time and all for the Glory of God. Today my husband and I raise our family in an A-frame house in the snowy mountains of California. We spend our days skiing, hiking, and trying to keep ahead of one big crazy mess. We’re outnumbered, so you can imagine how that’s going.

MDSA kindled in me a love for the Truth that my parents and the reception of the Sacraments lit as a young child. MDSA was a safe place for me to learn the Truth and encounter God. (Christ is literally present smack dab in the middle of the MDSA community!) I will always cherish those years. Thank you for having faith in me!

Alumnae updates On September 9, 2019, Ann Marie Diegelman Glinowiecki ’00 and husband Neale welcomed their daughter Marcelia Rose into the world.

Additionally, Ann was recently confirmed as Assistant Principal at Battle Grove Elementary in Baltimore County.

Melanie Picco ’01 has been singing and playing cello the past few years with an exciting new project, Wanderlight. Wanderlight, an acoustic Indie Folk band, recently released their first album titled "Sea of Moons" and performs original songs inspired by heartache, secret gardens, beautiful conversations with strangers, the light we find in every darkness, and the historical town of Ellicott City.

Melanie credits Ms. McGowan, a former Mount de Sales teacher, for helping her discover her voice during her senior year.

Erin Garrett ’03 is a portfolio manager at SEI. She was recently shortlisted as a “best manager” in the “Bonds” category for the 2019 Women in Asset Management Awards. Erin was among 100 women who were recognized for their achievements in the asset management sector.

Congratulations, Erin!

Ashley Bell Benson ’05 and her husband welcomed their first baby, little Nathaniel Joseph, last May. She earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine in May of 2018 and is currently working as a veterinarian in Jacksonville, Florida.

Director of Alumnae Relations Elizabeth Binette Mahon ’07 and husband Patrick welcomed their second baby, Molly deSales Mahon, on November 8, 2019. Elizabeth hopes that Molly will one day be a member of the Mount de Sales Academy Class of 2038!

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Sailor Reunions 1977 Though it wasn't technically a reunion year, members of the Class of 1977 celebrated turning 60 this year by cracking crabs at the Crab Feast. Thanks to Mary Jo Stricker for rallying her classmates for a night out to support the school.

1984 The Class of 1984 celebrated 35 years of alumnae sisterhood at Kelsey's Pub. Thank you to Michelle Zalucki and Teresa Guercio for planning.

1989 Mount de Sales welcomed the Class of 1989 back to campus for a potluck lunch and tour of the school for their 30th reunion. Thank you to Robin Peace and Bonnie Codd for organizing.

1994 In September, members of the Class of 1994 celebrated their 25th reunion at Jennings Cafe. A big thank you to Angela Burke Romeo for coordinating.

2008 The Class of 2008 gathered to celebrate 11 years since graduating from Mount de Sales.

Thank you to Emily Graham for pulling her classmates together for a reunion.

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2009 Members of the Class of 2009 celebrated their ten-year reunion at The Waterfront Hotel in Fells Point on November 8. Thank you to the reunion planning committee, Jessica Wilson Baldini, Maria Louzon Ball, Jordan von Lange, and Kasey Mercier Wolfe, for organizing this terrific event.

2014 Celebrating their first reunion since graduation, the Class of 2014 celebrated their five-year reunion over the summer.

Thank you to Katie Lerch for spearheading the event.

In memoriam + Mary Lou Malloy Lucas '45

Is it time for your reunion?

Contact Director of Alumnae Relations Elizabeth Mahon '07 to start planning at emahon@ mountdesales.org or 410.744.8498 ext. 265.

Alumnae

save the dates

+ Mary Ellen Mockler Jones '56

Tuesday, MARCH 24

+ Mary Ann Hackley '83

Alumnae Association Meeting 7 p.m.

Sunday, APRIL 5 Alumnae EASTER EGG HUNT 12:30 p.m.

Tuesday, APRIL 21 Alumnae Association Meeting 7 p.m.

Tuesday, MAY 19 Alumnae Association Meeting 7 p.m.

Saturday, MAY 23 168TH COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY Class of 1970 50th reunion

Friday, JUNE 5 ALUMNAE SPEAKER SERIES: History and Heritage of MDSA 7 p.m.

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Mount de Sales Academy

Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Baltimore, MD Permit No. 6341

700 Academy Road Catonsville, MD 21228

In This

Issue

G.I.R.L. Club

Meet Madison Bolesta '13

Matilda the Musical

Volleyball Champs

Lacrosse Legacy

Campaign Updates