Mount Magazine Summer 2015

Educating Founders since 1858

Moun t Sa in t Joseph Ac a demy Ma ga z i n e

Eileen McGill Meko ’60: Five Generations at the Mount • Graduation

Summer 2015

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contents [Mount Magazine]

From the President

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On the Mount

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Go Mount

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Graduation 12

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Front Cover: (l-r) Dona Schmidt and Tayluer Streat.

Inside Cover: (l-r) Bridget Sykes, Rebecca Boyden, Adrianna Marino, and Meghan Doyle.

Bottom Inside Left: Katie Strosser ’16 and Sarah Hansell ’16 perform a scene as part of the Theatre Workshop class.

Bottom Inside Right: (l-r) Eileen McGill Meko ’60 and her granddaughter, Anna Grace Meko ’18 with the MSJA alumnae charter.

Theatre Workshop Provides Lessons About the Arts—and Life

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French Exchange Program Brings International Students to the Mount

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Student and Development Notes

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Alumni News

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A Brush With Greatness: Krystina Faillace ’03

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Girl Underwater: Kathleen Coggshall ’01

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Five Generations at the Mount

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Reunion 2015

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Class Chatter

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Connect With Us on Social Media @mountstjosephacademy Use #msja in your captions so we can see your photos and possibly repost them to share with the entire Mount community!

PA Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program (EITC) The PA Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) and PA Opportunity Scholarship Tax Credit (OSTC)

@mountstjoseph

are programs which provide businesses a dollar-for-

Get quick news and updates from us. Have something to say? Use #msja to share it with the Mount community!

dollar tax credit for up to 90% of their business tax

facebook.com/msjacad Our page is a great way to stay up-to-date with what’s happening at the Mount, and to share your news.

Mount Saint Joseph Academy Alumnae Group Mount Saint Joseph Academy Community Groups Leverage your Mount connection to advance your career. We offer two ways to connect with fellow alumnae and industry professionals, and engage in discussions.

when directed to a non-profit school such as the Mount.

When EITC and/or OSTC funds are received, the Mount distributes these funds as tuition aid to students from families where the household income does not exceed $75,000, plus $15,000 for each additional child in that family.

For more information on how you can apply for EITC and OSTC and direct funds to the Mount, contact Maggie Doyle, Director of Finance at 215-233-3177 ext.

316 or go to www.msjacad.org and click on the EITC/ OSTC link.

Kristen DiPrinzio Mike Cellucci, Jill Gregori, Leigh McFadden, Theresa Moyer, Barbara Oldt, Jody Romano writers Kristen DiPrinzio, Eliza Ewing ’16, Regan Fitzgerald ’17, Charlotte Funchion ’16, Jenna Gray ’15, Eileen McGill Meko ’60, Kristina Neal ’15, Julia Rogers ’03 class chatter Theresa Moyer, Barbara Oldt photographers Mike Cellucci, Kristen DiPrinzio, Rebecca Gutherman, Andrea Bauhaus Laughlin ’82, Jody Romano, Carol Siwinski, Mike Stevenson designer Maridel McCloskey, McCloskey Designs printer Garrison Printing Co., Pennsauken, NJ managing editor editorial staff

Sister Kathleen Brabson, SSJ | principal Dr. Judith A. Caviston | vp of institutional advancement Jody Romano Jill Gregori | director of alumnae Theresa Moyer | director of communications Kristen DiPrinzio mount fund coordinator Leigh McFadden | development office secretary Barbara Oldt president

director of development

submit class notes online at: www.msjacad.org/classchatter | send comments or corrections to: Mount Saint Joseph Academy Editorial Office, 120 West Wissahickon Avenue, Flourtown, PA 19031 | contact: 215-233-3177; mount@msjacad.org | website: www.msjacad.org

The Mount Magazine is an official publication of Mount Saint Joseph Academy. The Mount Magazine is published three times a year (Winter/Spring, Summer and Fall) for students, alumnae, parents and friends of Mount Saint Joseph Academy.

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Summer 2015

From the President Dear Friends, This has been a remarkable year for the Mount in general, and for the Class of 2015, in particular. In my address to them at graduation, I shared a favorite story of mine, The Little Prince, and I told them how the message of this story resonates with them.

I know the Class of 2015 has great heart and compassion! What they care about, they care about deeply, like the Prince for his rose. An example of this may be found in the choices they made in addressing the plight of women and children. They began a chapter of MSJA Mini-THON at the Mount to fight pediatric cancer.

They demonstrated a “why not” determination to invite and meet Malala, an experience whose impact only the future will reveal.

In the Class of 2015 there are actors, producers, incredible musicians, exceptional athletes, journalists, curious scientists, a playwright, and a founder of a non-profit. Beyond doubt, they are a talented and gifted class on a journey to change the future. Please join me in congratulating and wishing them the best.

In these pages you will read about our French exchange program with our dear neighbors from Le Puy en Velay, France, the place where the Sisters of Saint Joseph were founded. This was a week of sharing educational opportunities, along with social and spiritual events. Our time together reinforced our commitment to keep this new connection with the future bearers of our traditions viable. Their excitement was inspiring and new friendships were forged.

This June, three of our Mount colleagues traveled to France, to participate in a retreat rooted in the SSJ and Ignatian mission and tradition. This concentration and visit to where our first sisters began this good work served to touch their hearts and strengthen within them the zeal to live our mission. They visited our school in Le Puy, and explored new educational ideas while renewing friendships. Please join me in praying for them; only God knows where this grace will take the Mount community.

I am also pleased to write that in June, our student leaders joined with other students from Baton Rouge, Louisiana; La Grange, Wisconsin; and Cleveland, Ohio at Chestnut Hill College, in a leadership camp that immersed them in our Philadelphia history, and provided opportunities to broaden and enhance their leadership skills to empower them to model and live our SSJ spirituality.

Lastly, but certainly not least, I am pleased to let you know that Kristen DiPrinzio has joined the Mount’s Office of Institutional Advancement as our new Director of Marketing and Communication. Kristen comes to us from Drexel University and will be working diligently on our social media, website, and general messaging initiatives. One of the first things you will notice under her efforts is that in the next edition of the Mount magazine you will see a new column that will focus and report on our activities and efforts to keep the SSJ mission alive in our hearts and observed in our actions. We are excited to live the legacy of being founders and to share our dreams for the future. Your encouragement and participation is welcome.

May the summer be a time of fun, rest, celebration and renewal of your spirits!

Blessings,

Sister Kathleen Brabson, SSJ President

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On The Mount

School news from Mount Saint Joseph Academy

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The weekend of March 20 marked the annual performance by Acadram, the Mount’s drama club.

This year, they presented Foul and Fair, written and directed by seniors Kristina Neal and Imeirah Page. The play examined the daunting college application process, and the impact it has on high school students in all areas of their lives. Kristina and Imeirah wanted to illustrate the pressure they, like so many other students, felt throughout the college decision process. Fine Arts teacher Ms. Jean Korey, the Acadram moderator who also assisted in directing the play, felt that the work spoke directly to students, but also to a broader community, and helped to increase awareness about the pressures high school students face when considering higher education. Cast in the play were Kayla Cummings ’15, Kayley DiPaolo ’17, Noelle Lampe ’17, 1

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Summer 2015

Kristina Neal ’15, Imeirah Page ’15, Christine Sedlack ’15, Keely Sinni ’15, Michaela Trigg ’17, Devon Vonder Schmalz ’17, Beaonca Ward ’16. Serving as stage crew were Emily Owsiany ’16 and Anna Signoretta ’15.

ministry of the arts. Time for prayer and reflection was built into the trip, and the group attended Stations of the Resurrection Prayer Service, where Mount students read a reflection that they wrote.

Pictured right, Mounties gather in prayer during the service trip.

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Over Easter break, ten students traveled with Campus Minister Rebecca Gutherman and faculty member Patricia Eakins to Des Plaines, Il., to spend a week engaging in service.

The group packaged manna packs at Feed My Starving Children, worked with the faculty at St. Ladislaus School in Chicago, and visited the elderly at Nazarethville Home for the Aged.

They also met with the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth, with whom the group stayed, the Carmelite Sisters, and the Sisters of St. Joseph in La Grange, where they learned about the

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Three students participated in the American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese Oral Proficiency Expo on April 25 at Haverford Township High School.

Pictured right, Dana Sargent ’16 placed 1st place in level 3; Kristine Lacek ’16 placed 1st place in level 2; and Ava Self ’17 placed 2nd in level 3.

4 The Mount’s annual Spring Concert was held on April 29 and 30.

This year’s performance,

Music By (Mostly) American Composers, gave organizers Mr. Don Holdren and Mr. Bill Whitaker, both Fine Arts faculty, freedom in selecting pieces for the concert. The program highlighted jazz, pop, and film arrangements, and selections from the rich canon of American music. Featured composers included John Williams, Randall Thompson, and Henry Mancini.

“It’s easy to forget that American

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composers have made and are making a great contribution to the wealth of excellent music being performed around the world,” said Holdren. “I am so very proud of all of our students.

They are incredibly hard workers and extremely dedicated to our music program.”

Pictured below, Mr. Don Holdren with members of The Mount’s Glee Club and Chorus.

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Junior Retreat was held at the Franciscan Spiritual Center in Aston on April 22, as part of Junior Week.

Students reflected in large and small group settings with faculty and senior retreat leaders. The senior retreat leaders led reflections on the charism of the SSJs with emphasis on Unity and Reconciliation.

Pictured on page 8, Emily McMullen ’16, Arianna Ferguson ’16, Allison McMullen ’16, Julia Comerford ’16, Bridget Stolarski ’16.

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On The Mount

School news from Mount Saint Joseph Academy

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6 Eight Mounties competed at the high school level of the Reading Olympics of Montgomery County on April 28. Many of them had experienced the Reading Olympics in grade school, but this was the first time the Mount participated at the high school level. There were three rounds of 40 questions on different books; each team had to answer 20 questions. The Mounties won all three rounds! Their scores for each round were 14, 15, and 16. The first round was against Bishop McDevitt High School and second and third rounds were against two different teams from Upper Merion High School.

Pictured below, team members Kathy Moser, Katherine Schaefer ’17, Maddie Ferrero ’16, Sarah Rossman 6

’15, Julia Fox ’16, Bridget Bosca ’17, Monica Goebel ’16, Isabel Grogan ’17, and Olivia Certa ’17.

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Gen Messa ’17, Regan Fitzgerald ’17, and Caitlin Bell ’17 won Outstanding Delegate Awards at the Model U.N. Conference the weekend of May 9.

Summer 2015

9 Over several weeks in April and May, Mounties took AP test in various subjects.

Pictured, Mary Kate Pensabene ’15, Katie Maransky ’15, and Catherine Geruson ’15 prepare for AP testing in The Mount’s fitness facility.

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Broadway Wishes, a one-night performance of Broadway songs to raise money for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, took place on May 14.

Talented performers from the Mount, Gwynedd Mercy Academy, La Salle College High School, and other local high schools performed an array of Broadway songs. It was an evening of 9

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entertainment and helping children renew their courage and find hope.

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Twelve students participated in the Archdiocesan Art Show. Stephanie Mahoney ’15 won second place for her relief sculpture, and Simone Dehel ’15 won third for her computer graphic print. Nina Lawler ’15 won honorable mention for the Dad Vail Regatta poster contest.

11 MSJA’s Spanish Honor Society gathered for an end-of-the-year dinner at Uncle Julio’s in Plymouth Meeting on May 11. During the dinner, officers for the 2015-16 were announced.

12 The annual MSJA Art Show was held on May 19. Student artwork in various media was showcased.

Pictured below, samples of work on display.

13 Sixteen seniors committed to play a sport in college at the DI, DII or DIII levels. Their parents and coaches attended a reception on May 21 to celebrate their acheivements and commitment to play at the college level.

Pictured above, senior athletes don shirts representing the institution they will be attending. Seated, from left: Jenny DiPietro (Crew, Lehigh University); Devon Conway (Soccer, University of Tampa); Adriana Pero (Field Hockey, Lafayette College); Christie Mischler (Lacrosse, Rollins College); Katie Maransky (Field Hockey, Georgetown University); Madeline Reiche (Track, University of Pittsburgh); Kate Fitzpatrick (Field Hockey, Cornell University); Annarose Clark

(Crew, Villanova University). Standing, from left: Danielle Kosman (Crew, Fordham University); Isabella DiLisio (Golf, University of Notre Dame); Maggie Schoeller (Golf, Amherst College); Stephanie Eble (Crew, Harvard University); Alaina Hunt (Crew, University of Pennsylvania); Dr. Judith Caviston, Principal; S. Kathleen Brabson, President; Janet Columbro, Director of Athletics; Brinna McGillin (Crew, St. Joseph’s University); Jennifer Leinheiser (Softball, Neumann University); MaryAnna Solecki (Soccer, Haverford College); Bill Rooney, Dean of Studies.

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GO MOUNT CREW

Head Coach: Megan Kennedy ’92 (16th season) Team Captains: Stephanie Eble ’15, Alaina Hunt ’15

and Danielle Kosman ’15

Team Accomplishments:

Crew senior day. Back row: Coach Mike McKenna, Sabrina Ghantous, Stephanie Eble, Nina Lawlor, Alaina Hunt, Brinna McGillin, Danielle Kosman, Emma Tenzinger, Jennifer DiPietro, Alana Cianciulli. Front row: Annarose Clark, Coach Meg Kennedy, Maria O’Malley.

• Manny Flick Series Brigantine Team Points Trophy Winner • Philadelphia City Championships: Varsity 8+, Lightweight 8+, Second Varsity 8+ and Novice 8+ won gold

Season Recap

The Mount Crew began the spring season successfully with a strong presence at the Manny Flick Regatta series, bringing home the Brigantine Team Points Trophy for the thirteenth year in a row (2003-15). At Philadelphia City Championships, the Varsity 8+, Lightweight 8+, Second Varsity 8+ and Novice 8+ won gold, while the JV8+, JV4+ and Freshman 4+ won silver. The Second Varsity 8+ (2V) captured the inaugural Denise A. Kosman Memorial Trophy, named for team captain and 2V four seat rower Danielle Kosman’s mother.

“The 2V raced an exciting final at Cities, giving and taking seats with Holy Spirit High School all the way down the course,” said coach Megan Kennedy. “In the end, I think our girls just wanted it more [at Cities] – winning the trophy honoring Danielle’s mom was so important to them!”

LACROSSE The 2V team with the inaugural trophy in Denise Kosman’s name.

Head Coach: Lindsey Colferai (4th season) Overall Record: 1-8 League Record: 7-6 League Finish: Third place Team Captains: Allie Hoffner ’15, Amanda Steinberg ’15, Jenna Zoldy ’15

AACA All-Stars: Allie Hoffner ’15, Christie Mischler ’15, Jenna Zoldy ’15

Season Recap:

Lacrosse senior day. From left, Kaitlyn Meister, Meghan Doyle, Amanda Steinberg, Jenna Zoldy, Allie Hoffner, Christie Mischler, Sara Healy.

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Summer 2015

This was a season of adversity. With a particularly rough and extended winter, the team had to quickly be ready for season despite the frigid temperatures. The girls embattled a tough opener against Merion and then Central Buck West High School. With grit and focus, the girls pulled together through March and found themselves with a five-game winning streak in April. The team also fared well against out-ofleague teams such as regional power Upper Dublin High School, who experienced quite the upset when the Magic worked together to come back from a seven-goal deficit. Six talented seniors (Meghan Doyle ’15, Allie Hoffner ’15, Kait Meister ’15, Christie Mischler ’15, Amanda Steinberg ’15, and Jenna Zoldy ’15) will graduate this year, and there are many underclassmen ready to contribute their best to the team.

spring sports wrap - up

SOFTBALL

Head Coach: Bill Thompson (5th season) Overall Record: 3-11 League Record: 1-10 League Finish: Fifth place Team Captains: Jennifer Leinheiser ’15, Kailey Ann Karabin ’16

Individual & Team Accomplishments: AACA All-Stars: Kailey Ann Karabin ’16 College Bound: Jennifer Leinheiser ’15 will continue her

playing career at Neumann University.

Season Recap:

Due to early rainouts, the Magic’s first games were during their Easter break trip to Disney’s Wide World of Sports. The Magic went 2-1 on their trip. The team has only three seniors: Jennifer Leinheiser ’15, Katie Mars ’15, and Eva McGrath ’15. The young team is continually improving, and the future is very promising with the returning varsity players and the addition of very talented upcoming JV players. The pitching staff consists of Kailey Ann Karabin ’16, Sofia Little ’17, Mary Fuchs ’17, and Lila Moore ’18.

TRACK & FIELD

Softball: Katie Mars, Eva McGrath, and Jen Leinheiser at senior day.

Head Coach: Kitty McClernand (5th season) Overall Record: 5-1 League Record: 5-1 Captains: Grace Havard ’15, Aidan Moroz ’15, Kate Pensabene ’15, Maddie Reiche ’15

AACA All-Stars:

1st team: 2nd team:

Maddie Reiche ’15 (High Jump) Maddie Riehman ’17 (Javelin) Kelly Ward ’17 (Pole Vault) Ava Self ’17, Grace DiGiovanni ’18, Gabby Good ’16, Aidan Moroz ’15 (4x800 Relay) Julie Hoover ’17 (100M Hurdles & 300M Hurdles) Tara Gallagher ’15 (800M) Lauren Ciasullo ’16, Leah Carreras ’15, Siobhan McBride ’17, Sarina Clary ’17 (4x400 Relay)

Season Recap:

The track & field team has done extremely well this season. They have successfully competed in dual & invitational meets this spring. This year, two girls competed at District 1 championships at Coatesville High School on May 14: Aidan Moroz in the 400M (also setting the school record -59.42) and Maddie Reiche in the High Jump.

Track senior day. Back row, from left: Meg McPaul, Tara Gallagher, Maddie Reiche, Kate Pensabene, Georgia Kelly, Belin Mirabile, Aidan Moroz. Front row, from left: Annie O’Sullivan, Jamie McCann, Grace Havard, Leah Carreras.

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Class of 2015

Valedictorian & Best In Class

Congratulations to Kristina Neal, who was named Valedictorian of the Class of 2015.

Stephanie Eble earned the “Best in Class” designation, awarded to the student who has earned the highest GPA as of January of her senior year.

The following is the speech that Valedictorian Kristina Neal delivered at Graduation.

Roman Emperor and philosopher Marcus Aurelius said, “Watch the stars, and see yourself running with them.” Since time immemorial, human beings have been looking to the stars for guidance. In the infancy of civilization, the stars told stories from the past and predicted the future. Most importantly, stars were the beginning and the end of every journey. To find adventure, freedom or simply the way back home, one had only to locate the brightest star in the sky and race toward it. Today is the last day of our journey as high school students. We have spent the last four years running with the stars.

Do you remember our first Founders’ Day? The laughter, the walking, the dancing, the blisters on our feet, the autumn chill, the drizzle that ruined our hair? Think back to the first time we craned our necks to observe the vast aquamarine universe painted on the vaulted ceilings of the Motherhouse Chapel. We were invited, like every other student in every other class before us, to choose one of the gilded stars there as our own. Do you remember your original star?

Probably not.

We may have claimed two or three stars during the years. No matter the number of stars we have collected, the value of the tradition lay not in choosing a single star, but in turning our eyes heavenward.

When we as a class entered Mount Saint Joseph Academy four years ago, the administration greeted us warmly and, with a smile, handed us each a telescope. These metaphorical telescopes looked more like name tags or perplexing rosters with block scheduling and rotating classes or mysterious green combination locks or textbooks larger than our forearms. Our teachers, with loving but firm voices, told us to open our books (a request we eagerly fulfilled) and then pointed our telescopes to the sky and said, “Look.” Thus, we became stargazers and were on our way to becoming Mounties.

We learned with pride and passion. We became acquainted with the stars (not only because we were up all night doing homework) while time danced madly around and away from us. We hastily finished freshman year and began looking for a dress (and a date) for the Soph Hop. We learned that the Mount has no swimming pool on the school roof although we continued the tradition of directing incoming freshmen to that non-existent pool.

We advanced into junior year. After two years of learning and growing together, we watched one another blossom. Our friends became presidents and leaders and team captains and artists and employees and women. At times, anxiety, tears, and exhaustion slowed our steps. Still, we danced at the Junior Prom. Then, we were seniors, and everything was happening for the last time: our last “first day of school,” our last time wearing the winter uniform, our last Founders’ Day, our last star.

College acceptances trickled into the school hallways. Suddenly, the girls who were our dear neighbors in Flourtown, Pennsylvania, would be in California and Maine and Arizona and Massachusetts. We could 12

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have watered a rainforest with the tears we shed on UNITAS senior retreats. We danced one final time on stage on Charity Day. Our heads were spinning. We put down our telescopes as we put on our graduation gowns.

We stand here before you today by the grace and mercy of Heaven and through faith, prayer, and love. To our parents and loved ones, who have loved us in our sunshine and our storms, we say thank you. Thank you for being the first ones to show us the sky. To administration and teachers, I offer a quote from Elizabeth Gilbert, author of Eat, Pray, Love, to describe our gratitude. “Maybe we must all give up trying to pay back the people in this world who sustain our lives. In the end, maybe it’s wiser to surrender before the miraculous scope of human generosity and to just keep saying thank you, forever and sincerely, for as long as we have voices.” Thank you for encouraging us to reach for the stars. Finally, thank God, for everything.

To this amazing group of young women with whom I am blessed to stand today, my fellow graduates, friends, and sisters, I give infinite thanks, infinite love, and these parting words: Why did we look to the stars on the ceiling of the Motherhouse Chapel on that first Founders’ Day four short years ago? To learn we are part of something larger than ourselves. We are much more than the legacy of love and lace lattice work of the Mount. We are becoming the stars that will light tonight, the stars that will light tomorrow.

We may experience times in life when the future is full of uncertainty and darkness. Our challenge, then, will be to blaze new trails into the unknown so that the world may follow our light. Leave your mark on the world. Create galaxies in your wake. Find your voice and use it often.

The questions will not be easy to answer, and the answers, once found, will not always be easy to accept. “Do I dare disturb the universe,” a voice inside will ask. As graduates of Mount Saint Joseph Academy, we must.

Finally, most importantly, look for yourself and love yourself. Know that your passion is always a priority. Know that you are not alone.

Know that you are loved fiercely, and love fiercely in return. Stand by your beliefs. Run with the stars and never forget your telescope.

I would be remiss if I did not include one final quote in my starstudded speech. *Many of you have heard it before and, if today is your first time hearing it, you will wish you had heard it earlier. From The Old Astronomer (To His Pupil) by Sarah Williams: “Though my soul may set in darkness, it will rise in perfect light; I have loved the stars too fondly to be fearful of the night.”

Congratulations, Class of 2015. Keep your eyes on the stars. *Note: It is a quote many of us learned while on senior UNITAS retreat, an event that brought us all together. I would like to use it to unite us one last time.

Congratulations Graduates!

Rosalie Eleanor Baseman University of Delaware Finalist, National Merit Scholarship Program

Kayla Brigid Cummings Pepperdine University Honore Neal Daly Drexel University

Victoria Lynn Beckett Pace University Commended Student, National Merit Scholarship Program

Gianna Mary DeBellis Pennsylvania State University

Emily Katherine Benincasa West Chester University of Pennsylvania

Simone Patricia Dehel Drexel University

Annina Marie Black Fordham University Commended Student, National Merit Scholarship Program

Monica Susan DiIenno Temple University

Lindsay Virginia Bono Pennsylvania State University Rebecca Jane Boyden Temple University Annemarie Cecilia Branco Drexel University Khanya Erica Brann Temple University Noelle Luciana Buchanan University of Pittsburgh

Isabella Marie DiLisio University of Notre Dame Jennifer Rae DiPietro Lehigh University Kelly Ann Dougherty University of San Diego Kristen Michelle Doyle Loyola University Maryland Meghan Elizabeth Doyle Saint Joseph’s University

Margaret Mary Buck Duquesne University

Stephanie Kathryn Eble Harvard University Finalist, National Merit Scholarship Program

Christine Elizabeth Buhalo Delaware Valley University

Katherine Marie Egan Pennsylvania State University

Colleen Marie Burns Fordham University

Madison Jayne Ehmann The University of Alabama

Emily Elizabeth Carpenter University of South Carolina

Rebecca Amani Elliott Temple University

Angeleah Marie Carreras University of Pittsburgh

Anna Maria Feinschil Pennsylvania State University

Allison Antonette Carter The University of Scranton

Kate Bernadette Fitzpatrick Cornell University

Emily Christine Drexel University

Marie Carmen Frazer Franklin & Marshall College

Alana Raffaele Cianciulli Saint Joseph’s University

Sarah Lynn Frazer Franklin & Marshall College

Nora Catherine Molloy Cipressi Villanova University

Kathryn Maureen Gallagher University of Pittsburgh

Annarose Marie Clark Villanova University

Tara Michele Gallagher Pennsylvania State University

Sophia Noelle Cocozza Boston College

Amanda Elizabeth Geiser University of Pennsylvania Finalist, National Merit Scholarship Program

Devon Julia Conway The University of Tampa Bridget Channing Coulter Manhattanville College

Catherine Kelly Geruson Saint Joseph’s University Commended Student, National Merit Scholarship Program mount saint joseph academy

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Jim Paul, Sister Kathleen Brabson, SSJ, and Stephen Gardner

2015 Fournier Medal Recipient Stephen Gardner The Mother Saint John Fournier Award is presented each year at graduation to a member of our community who has served the school with distinction and who has shown great commitment and loyalty to the Academy. Mr. Stephen Gardner was the 2015 recipient.

Steve’s daughters (Meredith ’02, Carly ’07, and Adrienne ’09) all attended the Mount. From the time Meredith began her freshman year, it was apparent that Steve is a man who stands with and behind this Mount community. His involvement spans many sectors, including chairing Celebrauction and chairing the Finance Committee as member of the Board of Directors.

Throughout his time on the Board, Steve has exhibited his insights and expertise, and gave the Mount administration the ability to build confidence in our good stewardship of our financial resources. His work has helped the Mount reach new levels of stewardship responsibility.

We are grateful for Stephen’s expertise, counsel, and dedication to the Mount.

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Sabrina Marie Ghantous Syracuse University

Stephanie Rose Mahoney Drexel University

Mary Kathleen Giarrocco Saint Joseph’s University

Ashley Marie Manfredi The University of Tampa

Jenna Marie-Elizabeth Gray Harvard University Archdiocesan Scholar Commended Student, National Merit Scholarship Program National Achievement Scholar

Katherine Ann Maransky Georgetown University

Grace Elizabeth Havard Villanova University Mary Sara Healy St. Lawrence University Christina Marie Hendel Pennsylvania State University Alexandra Lynne Hoffner University of Pennsylvania Grace Katherine Hogan Villanova University Commended Student, National Merit Scholarship Program

Adrianna Monserrate Marino The George Washington University Josephine Grace Marrocco Fordham University Katherine Grace Mars Elon University Commended Student, National Merit Scholarship Program Ophelia Crystal Mazza Cornell University Scholar, National Hispanic Recognition Program Colleen Mary McBride Pennsylvania State University

Paige Catharine Hogan Pennsylvania State University

Jamie Elizabeth McCann University of Pennsylvania Archdiocesan Scholar Commended Student, National Merit Scholarship Program

Megan Elizabeth Horan Fordham University

Reagan Shea McCarthy Pennsylvania State University

Alaina Gabrielle Hunt University of Pennsylvania

Brinna Eve McGillin Saint Joseph’s University

Mary Elizabeth Iggi Temple University

Bernadette Mary McGirr Ursinus College

Megan Elizabeth Kelley Villanova University

Eva Maria McGrath Drexel University

Georgia Kathleen Kelly Pennsylvania State University

Sherilyn Siatrez McLean Loyola University Chicago

Meghan Rosemary Keown Temple University

Jessica Marie McManness Gettysburg College

Danielle Marie Kosman Fordham University

Carly Anne McNamara The University of Scranton

Erin Michele Kraeher Pennsylvania State University

Megan Elizabeth McPaul Pennsylvania State University

Nina Martin Lawlor Temple University

Kaitlyn Victoria Meister University of Miami

Taylor Leber Pennsylvania State University

Belin Asuncion Mirabile University of Notre Dame

Jennifer Marie Leinheiser Neumann University

Christine Grady Mischler Rollins College

Amanda Marie Leto Boston University

Aidan Theresa Moroz Fordham University

Kelly Theresa Loftus Pace University

Catherine Elizabeth Morris Temple University

Madeline Sophie Loftus Fairfield University

Caitlin Siobhan Morrissey Villanova University

Katherine Taylor Lordi Bucknell University

Elizabeth Tuseck Napolitano Pennsylvania State University mount saint joseph academy

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Kristina Noelle Neal Harvard University Maria Anne O’Malley Providence College AnneMarie Elizabeth O’Sullivan Syracuse University Imeirah Tania Page Howard University Sierra Madelynn Palantino Philadelphia University Christina Louise Pascali Loyola University Maryland Jaclyn Rose Passerini University of Pittsburgh Maura Elizabeth Peifer Villanova University Mary Kate Pensabene Boston College Adriana Elizabeth Pero Lafayette College

Anna Mary Signoretta Temple University Keely Ann Sinni Duquesne University Maryanna Solecki Haverford College Nicolette Cynthia Sommar Drexel University Jacqueline Olivia Sosalski Drexel University Amanda Rose Steinberg Villanova University Tayluer Denise Streat Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Katherine Haley Stromberg University of California, Santa Barbara Bridget Anne Sykes Temple University

Paige Ann Pfeiffer Macalester College Commended Student, National Merit Scholarship Program

Claudia Sabrina Sztandera Drexel University

Madeline Jeanne Reiche University of Pittsburgh

Haasiyna Dezyrea Taylor Community College of Philadelphia

Shannon Elizabeth Reilly University of Pittsburgh

Emma Marie Tenzinger Villanova University

Lia Sciarra Rocchino University of Notre Dame Commended Student, National Merit Scholarship Program

Sarah Elizabeth Thomas North Carolina State University

Serena Lisa Romanelli Fordham University Luisa Christina Rossi Drexel University

Jessica Lynn Tyrrell Pennsylvania State University Mary Catherine Ulasewicz Naval Academy Preparatory School Jessica Lila Vagnoni Saint Joseph’s University

Sarah Elizabeth Rossman Johns Hopkins University Finalist, National Merit Scholarship Program

Bridget Kathleen Walsh University of Pittsburgh

Haley Cecelia Sannem The University of Alabama

Morgan Jane Weiss Drexel University

Dona Ann Schmidt Loyola University Maryland

Iris Amanda Wexler Cabrini College

Margaret Elisabeth Schoeller Amherst College Finalist, National Merit Scholarship Program

Jasmine Maryiah Wiggins Loyola University Maryland

Ann Caitlin Schuck Loyola University Maryland Commended Student, National Merit Scholarship Program Christine Julia Sedlack Barnard College of Columbia University Commended Student, National Merit Scholarship Program

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Katherine Grace Shreero Lehigh University Commended Student, National Merit Scholarship Program

Summer 2015

Veronica Zin New York University Jenna Leigh Zoldy Pennsylvania State University Maria Theresa Zonies Temple University

Theatre Workshop students. Front row, from left: Anna Signoretta ’15, Kayla Cummings ’15, Katie Strosser ’16, Imeirah Page ’15, Kathryn Deasy ’16, Kristina Neal ’15.

Back row: Sarah Hansell ’16, Ms. Jean Korey, Bridget Sykes ’15.

Theatre Workshop Provides Lessons About by: Kristen DiPrinzio

the Arts – and Life

This spring, eight junior and senior students took a new course, Theatre Workshop, where they analyzed Broadway shows, wrote their own original play, and performed a play written by another school. The class was organized by Theatrelink, a New York-based education program by the Manhattan Theatre Club.

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n Fine Arts teacher Jean Korey’s classroom, a small group of students huddle on a leather sofa, poring over an iPad and discussing dialogue. In a corner, two students rearrange names on a large board, mapping out a family lineage of fictional characters. They’re delving into the characters’ lives in hopes to determine their behavior and thought patterns. All of this unfolds against a backdrop of movie posters and photos of legendary film stars taped to the walls.

Clearly, this is not your average class; this is Theatre Workshop, a new honors course. The class came to be thanks to Theatrelink, part of Manhattan Theatre Club’s education program. Theatrelink is a curriculum-based web project that connects select high schools around the world for a five-month period to create and study theatre together.

Through a connection from a Mount alumna now working in arts administration, a representative from Theatrelink called Ms. Korey in summer 2013 to ask her class to be a part of the program in spring 2014. Korey’s curriculum for the 2013-14 school year was already finalized by the time the call came, so she reluctantly declined, but requested that the Mount be kept in mind for future sessions.

Ms. Korey followed up with Theatrelink in spring 2014. She proposed creating a 16-week theatre course that could be carried out in conjunction with Theatrelink’s program. In June 2014, she received word that the Mount had been approved into the program. The class would begin in spring 2015.

“I wanted to expand the theatre curriculum to include a playwriting course,” Ms. Korey explained. “More students were expressing an interest in playwriting, and the Theatrelink program

presented the perfect opportunity for that and much more. The students would be able to take part in every aspect of the theatre process: writing, directing, acting and designing.”

In preparation to merge her lesson plans with Theatrelink’s content, Ms. Korey attended a workshop with teachers from other participating schools in December 2014. During that session, Korey examined Theatrelink’s curriculum and become familiar with the program methodology.

Eight students enrolled in the class: Kayla Cummings ’15, Kathryn Deasy ’16, Sarah Hansell ’16, Kristina Neal ’15, Imeirah Page ’15, Anna Signoretta ’15, Katie Strosser ’16, and Bridget Sykes ’15. Four students had previous theatre experience through Acadram, the Mount’s drama club.

At the start of the course, each class is assigned a Teaching Artist, an actor or theatre professional who holds webchats and consults with students throughout the course. Their Teaching Artist was Julie Leedes Bienstock, an actress with a long history in stage and screen acting.

The course began with an in-depth analysis of how plays are structured. To familiarize students with the arrangement of plays, Theatrelink provides students a play to read and assess. Students this year were given Outside Mullingar, a play by John Patrick Shanley that ran on Broadway in 2014. The girls began the course by reading the play, discussing its structure and thematic elements, and analyzing it using storytelling assignments, improvisation activities and character profiles provided by Theatrelink.

The play, set in Ireland, focuses on two farmers, Anthony and mount saint joseph academy

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Rosemary, who live on adjacent farms. Rosemary is romantically interested in Anthony, who is painfully shy and unaware. This creates the play’s main conflict.

Building upon the theme of conflict, students were charged with developing an original play centered on some type of discord They were given specific parameters: it had to involve two people or families living next door to each other; it had to include an important object that held meaning; and had to result in two or more people coming together despite facing an obstacle.

“I thought the biggest challenge would be the writing process,” Ms. Korey said. “How would eight writers come to a consensus on the idea, story development, and characters? They were so respectful of each other, so open to each other’s viewpoints. There was such give and take that it was startling. Their integrity and maturity are incredible. They are amazing problem solvers.”

Ms. Korey had fully expected to provide guidance to the girls throughout the course, and expected them to need her assistance— especially since some of them had no prior theatre experience. But the girls’ enthusiasm, maturity, and adaptability resulted in one unexpected challenge for Ms. Korey: learning to let go and allowing the girls to flourish.

The result of the students’ work was Sitzende Frau, an intriguing, heartfelt play written by the students with guidance from both Korey and Bienstock. Sitzende Frau paints the picture of a young Catholic woman, Addie, and a young Jewish man, Aaron, who wish to marry.

Family tensions during engagements and marriages can sometimes be typical in modern life; the students took that idea and constructed a series of conflicts around that concept.

In the play, Addie’s faith plays an important role in her life. She believes that her future husband’s faith is not quite as sacred to him, so she asks him to convert to Catholicism. What ensues is strife, emotional upheaval, brutal honesty, and a happy ending.

The plot required students to research extensively—everything from historical facts about the Holocaust to kosher food regulations—because they all play pivotal roles in the story.

“I always remind the students, ‘This is why you need the arts; because we put together everything you learn in other classes,’” Ms. Korey said.

Anna Signoretta ’15 echoes this sentiment. The students produced a video about the class, and in it, Anna said that the experience of writing this play “made their research and all they have learned in other classes relevant.”

During their historical discussions, Ms. Korey told the class about the paintings that Nazis stole from Jewish families during the Holocaust. Throughout World War II, the Third Reich amassed hundreds of pieces of valuable artwork from Jewish families in occupied countries. The combined value of the art was reported to be in the billions. The Nazis stored these pieces throughout Germany.

The Allied Powers found the works at the end of the war, and through

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the following decades, most of the pieces were returned to their original owners.

Students latched onto that bit of history and made it a central theme in their play. They found photos of a Matisse painting called Sitzende Frau (“Sitting Woman”). The painting plays an integral role in the play, and is the “object” that holds meaning to both families.

Throughout the course of the Workshop, students joined webchats with Bienstock and used the classroom’s SMARTboard to collaboratively write the play. They always worked in a group setting, bouncing ideas off of each other, developing dialogue unique to the characters, and constructing a story arc. As they were crafting the play, Ms. Korey found the students asking if the dialogue was authentic to each of the characters; if a specific character would really behave in a certain manner; and other thoughtful questions related to writing the play.

“With all of the exercises we did in this classroom, sometimes the girls were pushed to go outside of their comfort zones,” Ms. Korey said. “That brought out their strengths.”

The girls learned countless lessons throughout the course that extend far beyond theatre techniques. They practiced teamwork; strengthened their writing skills through character development and dialogue nuances; honed their research processes; and enhanced their technological prowess through the use of the SMARTboard, webchats, iPads, and other devices. In addition to learning the technical elements of theatre, students were immersed in lessons in history, art, Catholic traditions, and Jewish culture.

After writing their original play, Theatrelink partnered MSJA with Spotswood High School in New Jersey. They sent Spotswood Sitzende Frau, and Spotswood sent them Aces Alone, their original play. The students performed the play, under the direction of Kristina Neal ’15 and Imeirah Page ’15, with the guidance of Ms. Korey, and recorded it. They then sent it off to Spotswood so they could analyze it, and in turn, see how the Spotswood students interpreted Sitzende Frau in their performance. Bienstock weighed in on both finished products and gave constructive feedback to students.

At the conclusion of the course, Ms. Korey reflected on a class that exhibited an unprecedented level of success. She said she saw the students grow in ways she didn’t expect, and that the lessons in the room went far beyond simply studying theatre.

“One of the biggest things we built in this classroom was empathy,” Ms. Korey said. “[Analyzing and creating these works] taught the girls maybe not to judge people so much, but rather to build relationships and listen.”

In other words, the biggest lessons the students mastered in Theatre Workshop were ones that typically cannot be learned in a classroom.

“Life lessons that the girls would carry with them for the rest of their lives were absorbed through hands-on experience,” Ms. Korey said. “As we say about acting, ‘The doing is all.’ And these girls were definitely doers.”

French Exchange Program

Brings International Students to the Mount

“I

had long desired to initiate an exchange program at the Mount, but the logistics never worked out until last April,” said French teacher Madame Carol Deshagette.

Two years ago, Mme. Deshagette received an email from a Sister of Saint Joseph at Chestnut Hill College who was looking to expand the Sisters’ international network. She came into contact with Mme. Christine Moure, assistant principal, and Mme. Julie Bonfils, English teacher at Collège Saint Joseph-Le Rosaire, in Puy-en-Valey, France.

The two teachers exchanged emails and created blogs where they shared what they were doing with their students. Mme. Moure visited the Mount last April, and in June sent Mme. Deshagette an email asking whether she and the Mount were interested in participating in an exchange program. Mme. Deshagette presented her proposal to S. Kathleen Brabson, President, and Dr. Judith Caviston, Principal, who welcomed the plan.

“I believe this French exchange program goes to something deeper in that the connection from our earliest roots is something God desires. I do believe that moments of grace are unfolding in front of us now,” said S. Kathleen.

Serving as coordinator of the program, Mme. Deshagette managed all contact with the French. She, S. Kathleen, Dr. Caviston, and three French teacher chaperones – Mms. Christine Moure, Martine Wendzinski and Elta Louis Jeune – determined the trip’s itinerary, including transportation arrangements, the students’ class visit schedules and recommendations for host families.

Moure, Wendsinski and Jeune said they felt coming to the U.S. was not a decision, but a call from their “faithfulness to the spirit of Saint Joseph.”

From March 27 to April 1, five exchange students and their chaperones visited the Mount. Kat Mokrynski ’18, Katrina ReethofBower ’17, Lola Rosario ’16, Caroline Savage ’17, and Lauren Scheffey ’16, along with their families, hosted French students Christine Hu, Charlyn Faisandier, Claudine Boyer Reynaud, Nathan Bernard and Lucas Gauvry, respectively. The French students were randomly assigned to hosts, but each Mount student could choose to host either a male or a female French student.

While at the Mount, French students witnessed Charity Day and Stations of the Cross; they observed classes, including an English class on “Antigone,” a history class on the treatment of Native Americans under President Andrew Jackson and a theology class featuring a meditation service.

“What is very interesting is that [the Mount] is a big school with many people working, yet there is a togetherness. Everybody treats us as if we were his or her own guest,” said chaperone Martine Wendzinski.

Aside from attending school Monday, March 30 through

by: Jenna Gray ’15

Wednesday, April 1 and an organized trip to Philadelphia on Thursday, April 2, the Mount students were free to take their French friends wherever they wanted to go. Destinations included an American grocery store, a nail salon, a baseball game, the Franklin Institute, Sky Zone, the Plymouth Meeting Mall, McDonald’s, the White House, the Washington Obelisk and the FBI headquarters.

During the day trip to downtown Philadelphia, everyone involved in the program visited the Art Museum, Reading Terminal Market, and the Liberty Bell, among other attractions. The French students spent time in New York City, where they went on a cruise and later saw Times Square, Wall Street and the Empire State Building before flying home.

“I loved visiting the cities and living daily with the family. I think sometimes the little mundane things are memorable things,” commented Lucas Gauvry. “The Mount is for me an unforgettable school.”

Everyone involved in the program expressed positive sentiments about the exchange.

“My favorite part of the experience was seeing how much Claudine’s English improved in just one week,” said Lauren Scheffey ’16. “In the beginning it was difficult for us to have a conversation because we always had to look up words on Google Translate. By the end of the week, however, we had become close friends and we could have a full conversation in English.”

“My French definitely improved, and I learned a few things about French culture,” said freshman Kathryn Mokrynski.

In reflecting upon the differences between France and the United States, the French students noted the prominence of religion in the United States and the large size of American food portions.

Lucas Gauvry expressed the French students’ only gripe with the exchange: “It was just too short.”

“I think a seed has been planted,” said S. Kathleen. “I believe that the positive message that came out of this experience will get out there and more people may be interested in coming.”

“My hope is to extend the program to more Mounties so they can discover the French life and something different from what we know with the Mount,” said Mme. Deshagette.

On May 5, the AP French class spoke with the French chaperones and students in a Skype Session (pictured below) during which the French affirmed their desire to welcome the Mount Community to Le Puy next spring.

When asked how they hope the exchange program will benefit the school communities of the Sisters of Saint Joseph, Wendzinski said she hopes everyone develops “a new openness. We would like all the host families and each of you here to get from our stay the true desire to come to us.”

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Class Officer Reception On the morning of May 15, The Mount celebrated class officers who served during the 2014-15 school year, and welcomed rising officers for the 2015-16 academic year.

It was also an opportunity to say goodbye to our seniors, and gather them for one last group photo!

Standing, from left: Angeleah Carreras ’15, Bridget Horan ’16, Mairead Denton ’16, Meredith Bohner ’16, Abigail Aita ’16, Susanne Kushnerick ’17, Colleen Mars ’17, Bridget Malott ’18, Christina Hendel ’15, Courteney Derrah ’18. Seated, from left: Katie Maransky ’15, Belin Mirabile ’15, Colleen McBride ’15, Mary Kate Pensabene ’15, Kate Fitzpatrick ’15. Not pictured: Shannon Hughes ’16.

2014-15 Senior Class Officers Mary Kate Pensabene, Belin Mirabile, Katie Maransky, Colleen McBride, Kate Fitzpatrick, and Angeleah Carreras pose for a final photo before ending the school year.

Mount Bids

Farewell TO Staff Members

by: Charlotte Funchion ’16 and Regan Fitzgerald ’17

The end of the 2014-15 school year was sad for more than just the graduating seniors. The Mount community also faced the absence of one of its most treasured members, S. St. Rose.

Although she is now only a short walk away enjoying her retirement, to say her warm smile and harmonious laugh will be missed around the school halls is an understatement. She did offer some final advice for Mounties: “The dedication of you girls is admirable. I know the work can be heavy at times but never forget why you are here. God is with you always.”

Also pursuing retirement after 20 years of dedicated service is Mrs. Coyle, the Mount’s nurse. When asked what she will miss about the Mount, Coyle said, “Just talking to the girls.”

President S. Kathleen Brabson said, “Mrs. Coyle’s most outstanding quality is her compassion.” Her presence and kindness will be deeply missed.

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As of press time, the 2014-15 MSJA Mount Fund total reached $382,443, bringing us to 90% of our goal of $425,000.

The Development Office gratefully recognizes the collective generosity of the entire Mount Community. Mount Fund gifts from alumnae, current, and past parents, faculty and staff wholly support the young women at the Mount each and every day. Please accept our gratitude for the many ways in which you have made Mount Saint Joseph Academy a priority in your charitable giving. We humbly look forward to your continued participation and commitment next year.

90%

For more information about the Mount Fund please contact Jill Gregori, Director of Development, at jgregori@msjacad.org or call 215-233-1859.

Did You Know?

26% of Mount students will be receiving financial aid in 2104-15.

Thank you for your support!

Incoming Scholars Reception On May 7, Mounties from the Class of 2019 who received scholarships gathered in Fontbonne for a welcoming reception.

Students enjoyed light bites, a welcome from Mount faculty, and performances by the Mount’s Glee Club.

The event gave students the chance to get to know one another before starting their freshman year in the fall, and parents the opportunity to meet families of their daughters’ classmates.

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Harvest Club

Dinner

Parents, alumnae and friends gathered in Fontbonne for the annual Harvest Club Dinner on May 6. The dinner honored individuals who gave to the Mount Fund at Purple & Gold or Harvest Club levels, or who volunteered their time at the Mount during the 2014-15 school year.

Members of the MSJA Culinary Club assisted Paul Clark, the Mount’s executive chef, in preparing and serving the delicious fare!

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From the Alumnae Association President Dearest MSJA Alumnae: The summer is here! It is hard to believe my second year of serving as President of the Alumnae Association is coming to an end. As I continue on this journey, I feel blessed with all the good that is Mount Saint Joseph Academy. I look forward to the next two years as I continue to serve as the President and I thank you for allowing me the opportunity. Working with so many dynamic and talented women that wish to enhance the mission of the Mount and the Sisters of Saint Joseph gives me great pride.

The past few months have proven to be busy and the spirit of the Mount is vibrant! One of the many highlights was our annual Alumnae Day where alums gathered together to reminisce about their days here at the Mount. From the “Golden Girls,” our 50th reunion class, to the young women who graduated five years ago, it was a day to remember. Special moments were shared and reconnecting with others was a priority!

Special congratulations to the newest alumnae award recipients! Thank you ladies!

A smaller yet powerful event took place in May. A group of Mount alumnae hosted a panel to discuss how to “Mastering, Managing and Serving the Mommy Track.” This group of women shared how they are working in a professional setting while raising a family and meeting the demands of both. Read more about this event below. Thank you to those who presented and attended. We look forward to hosting more events both at and outside of the Mount to address ways that we can be of help and support to others.

On May 19, we welcomed the graduating Mount seniors into the Alumnae Association. Fifteen members of the Class of 2015 have mothers or grandmothers who are proud Mount alumnae, living reminders of the transfer of traditions from one generation to the next.

As we look towards the fall, I ask that you save the dates for the following events: • • • • • •

MSJA Golf Classic at Blue Bell Country Club: Monday, September 21 Miles for Magic 5K which will benefit the Stephanie Leonards Roman Memorial Fund: Saturday, October 24 Alumnae Open Board Meeting: Tuesday, October 13 Open House: Sunday, October 18 Fashion Show: Thursday, October 29 Lunch with Santa: Saturday, December 5

In closing, I would like to say an extra special thank you to the women who have given their time and dedication to the Mount over the past few years. The following members are leaving our board: Mary Kate Haber Black ’80; Tricia Geppert Haber ’79; Madge Mansell Keehn ’50; Caroline Menapace ’08; Kelly Beaver Pustizzi ’97 and Dona Travaline Schmidt ’77. These ladies have made a difference and have helped strengthen our association. For that, I am most grateful. I also would like to welcome the new members who will be joining our board and share the excitement I have in welcoming their talents: Erin McClafferty Erfle ’96; Caroline Harkins Gorman ’02; Bobbi Tumelty Kelly ’00; Heather Kates Kelly ’88; Kate Klein ’06; Susan Doney Leonard ’80; Mary McFadden Paul ’62 and Katie McClernand Sacchetta ’05.

Our tradition is certain. The MSJA Alumnae Association thrives today due to the dedication and support of its members. Thank you for your continued generosity and increased participation in alumnae events, and to all alumnae whose planning and organization contributed to another year celebrating our friendship and loyalty to our Alma Mater.

Spes Mesis in Semine, Megan Osborne Romano ’94

Mount Network

“Mastering, Managing and Surviving the Mommy Track” The Mount Network series continued on May 12 with “Mastering, Managing, and Surviving the Mommy Track.” More than 30 guests gathered in the MSJA Library for a discussion on managing and succeeding at life as a working mother.

A panel of Mount alumnae at various stages of motherhood guided the conversation by sharing their own challenges, choices, and things they wish they knew before becoming mothers. Panelists were Caroline Toedtman Brandt ’91; Dana Saporito Careless ’02; Bridget Flanagan ’00 (moderator); Terri McGrath Gillespie ’98; Suzanne Serianni Mayes ’84; and Colleen Osborne Mook ’90.

The event was designed to foster dialogue between women in various stages of life: new mothers; stay-at-home moms looking to rejoin the workforce; mothers who are working full-time; and those thinking about becoming parents. Navigating both a career and motherhood is at times difficult and stressful, and unfortunately, it’s not often talked about. This event aimed to change that through thoughtful conversations.

Women shared their experiences with motherhood, and gave insightful suggestions about what worked – and didn’t work – for them. The group talked about their personal struggles, triumphs, and fears in navigating life as a mother. mount saint joseph academy

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A Brush with Greatness Krystina Faillace ’03 turned her artistic talent into a business, Brushing Bride, by creating custom wedding dress sketches for brides.

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by: Julia Rogers ’03

rystina Faillace ’03 is among the people in my life who have shaped, taught, loved, and amused me. I first met Krystina at soccer tryouts during our freshman year. She was creative, determined, and optimistic, and had a candid ability to make me laugh despite the circumstances of the game.

As talented as Krystina was on the field, she was equally skilled in the classroom. One minute she and I would be reviewing problem sets for AP Calculus and the next she would be sketching, sculpting, or painting for one of her many art classes. Leading the Economics Club, Krystina designed apparel using her own artwork, selling it to fellow students. As Class President, she transformed a ballroom into a tropical paradise filled with handmade palm trees, bamboo and flowers during our senior prom. Although she didn’t realize it at the time, the Mount sparked a passion for business and art.

In 2007, Krystina graduated from Saint Joseph’s University with a degree in Business Administration and a minor in Fine Art. In 2009, she returned to pursue an MBA while advancing as a systems analyst at one of the area’s leading health insurers.

She continued to draw and paint in her free time, and when her best friend got married, she decided to give something a bit more personal on her wedding day. Krystina recreated her friend’s dress in a piece of artwork that she framed. Afterwards, the bride’s twelve bridesmaids asked how they could place an order, and, thus, her business was born.

Merging her creative vision and business savvy, Krystina launched Brushing Bride (thebrushingbride.com), which she describes as a “Modern spin on wedding dress preservation.” Brushing Bride was created as a response to brides who fall in love with their wedding dresses, wear them once, and put them in storage. As owner and artist, Krystina creates custom wedding dress illustrations that make perfect shower, wedding and anniversary presents. Using just a few pictures of the bride or images from the designer’s website, Krystina is able to capture the intricate detail and beauty of a wedding gown! Her work is personal, sentimental and unique.

Krystina embodies the spirit and tradition of the Mount. Not only did she create a niche in a saturated market, but she was able to take a trait I admire most in her--the ability to make others feel special--and transform it into a business. Ever the Mountie, she is also conscious of service to others. In addition to her commissioned artwork, Brushing Bride works with organizations like the NICU Helping Hands’ Angel Gown® program, offering discounts on artwork for those who donate their bridal gowns.

Brushing Bride has been the perfect gift to my girlfriends and truly a cherished keepsake.

Alumnae Induction

On May 19, members of the Class of 2015 were inducted into the MSJA Alumnae Association, a tradition that allows the Mount community to celebrate our newest alumnae. Mothers and grandmothers of current students were invited to attend and distribute commemorative pins to seniors during the ceremony. In the photo, members of the senior class are standing behind their mothers and/or grandmothers.

Back row, from left: Erin McClafferty Erfle ’96, Emily Christine, Simone Dehel, Meghan Doyle, Kate Fitzpatrick, Katie Maransky, Mary Iggi, Katie Mars, Emma Tenzinger, Jessica Tyrrell, Anna Signoretta, Dona Schmidt, Jaclyn Passerini,Catherine Morris, Paige Pfeiffer, Morgan Weiss, S. Kathleen Brabson.

Front row, from left: Amy Perkinson Christine ’83, Patricia Reilly Dehel ’52, Diane Kyle Doyle ’84, Jody Scott Kyle ’59, Ann Mangan Fitzpatrick-Vecchio ’86, Patricia Geisel Maransky ’84, Ann Koons Iggi ’76, Mary Pat McCann Mars ’82, Kathleen McNamara Tenzinger ’77, Christine Dolaway Tyrrell ’86, Dianne Violi Signoretta ’86, Dona Travaline Schmidt ’77, Theresa Loughlin Passerini ’80, Elizabeth Serianni Morris ’85, Anina Armento Pfeiffer ’80, Jane Charlton Weiss ’79.

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Girl Underwater author

Kathleen Coggshall ’01

visits the mount for a book signing by: Eliza Ewing ’16 Kathleen Coggshall and Sister Kathleen Brabson, SSJ.

Kathleen Coggshall ’01 – better known by her pen name Claire Kells – is the author of the debut novel “Girl Underwater,” which was recently given the number one spot on Oprah Winfrey’s list of “Books to Read Over a Long (Holiday) Weekend.” She came to the Mount recently for a lecture and book signing. During the event, she sat down with The Campanile, the Mount’s student newspaper, for an interview.

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ffortless in navy blue scrubs and an impeccable dark brown bun, and clutching a copy of her novel (whose cover is emblazoned with her pen name, Claire Kells), Kathleen Coggshall ’01 graciously sat down with the Campanile’s four editors-in-chief to answer questions about her unusual career path and her adventure-romance novel, Girl Underwater.

If navy blue scrubs seem like odd attire for a Princeton-graduated English major, Coggshall agrees. She herself admits that her career has been anything but orthodox. Mount’s 2001 Valedictorian, as well as a talented swimmer who set records in the 50 freestyle and 200 freestyle relay, Coggshall began as a pre-med major at Princeton University, but soon found herself at odds with the program’s intensity. She dropped out of the pre-med program and enrolled in the English department to pursue the love of writing she had developed at the Mount, where, she says, her teachers pushed her to be a better writer and encouraged her to find a style of writing and thinking that worked for her.

Once graduated, however, Coggshall found herself drawn inexorably back to medicine. She took post-baccalaureate classes to fulfill the course requirements for medical school and was accepted to the University of California, San Diego, where she completed her M.D. and stayed for a few years as a researcher.

Coggshall had been a standout swimmer at the Mount and swam all through high school, then retired before college.

Drawn back to the water while studying in medical school, Coggshall began writing Girl Underwater, whose main character is a serious swimmer, after a shoulder injury forced her to stop swimming for a full 18 months.

Coggshall with her mother, Theresa Coggshall (left), and aunt, Mary Ann Bonner.

She had written other novels in medical school, but all of them, Coggshall laughs, were bad.

As her medical education progressed, however, Coggshall began editing her own writing more harshly and trying to replicate the styles of other authors whom she admired. The result was her first publishable manuscript, though she teased that she might have another book in the works.

Now a second-year dermatology resident, Coggshall says that she drew “quite a bit” from her personal life and experiences when composing Girl Underwater. Along with swimming, medicine played a big part in the “very personal place” she pulled from while writing.

Coggshall explained that creating a personal novel was very important to her and that she incorporated elements from her own life, from swimming and her “medical bent” to her own values, friends, and family (who, Coggshall noted with a small grin, don’t know she made them characters) in order to create a work which spoke to her as well as to her readers.

Even Coggshall’s pen name, Claire Kells, has a personal backstory. Coggshall chose “Claire” because she thought the name was pretty, but when her publisher advised her to choose a last name in the middle of the alphabet, since mid-alphabet letters are easier to find on a shelf, Coggshall immediately chose “Kells,” the name of the bar at which she and her fiancé first met.

An accomplished individual, both as a doctor and a published novelist, Coggshall can back up the parting words she offered to the Campanile editors at the conclusion of her interview: “If you have a dream and you think it sounds unrealistic, it’s not,” she said. “You have to work hard for it.”

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Five Generations at the mount by: Eileen McGill Meko ’60

Eileen McGill Meko ’60 in her senior yearbook photo.

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ive generations at formation of the Mount Saint Joseph Alumnae Association. the Mount! Yes, my family When the association was incorporated in 1929, Mary Watson has over one hundred Scanlon and Anna Watson Burke signed the document. and twenty five years of My mother, Mary Eileen Burke McGill ’33, came to the association with Mount Mount from Shenandoah in September 1929. She had the same Saint Joseph Academy! train trip as her mother, however, the first and last segment Our journey began in the 1890s when my grandmother, Anna of her trip would be by “horseless carriage.” “Merry” Eileen Watson Burke, and her sister, Mary Watson Scanlon, traveled followed an academic course, participated in intramural sports, more than one hundred miles from Shenandoah, Pennsylvania, took piano lessons, and played the string bass in the orchestra. to the Mount Saint Joseph Academy for Young Ladies. It was a She graduated in 1933 and continued her studies at Mount full day’s journey. Anna and Mary began the trip with a horse Saint Joseph College, which would later be called Chestnut and carriage ride from Shenandoah to Pottsville where they Hill College. boarded the train for Center City Philadelphia. There, they I attended elementary school at Fontbonne Hall Academy, transferred to another train to Chestnut Hill. At the “top of the named for the foundress of the Sisters of Saint Joseph, Mother hill,” they took another carriage ride down Germantown Avenue Saint John Fontbonne. Fontbonne and Norwood were separate to the Mount. The Mount at that time was a boarding school. boarding and day schools for boys and girls. I had always The tuition was two hundred and fifty dollars a year for room expected that I would attend the Mount as my grandmother and board. The Mount continued to take boarders until the and Mother did before me, and it was a natural transition from late 1950’s. My class of 1960 Fontbonne. The application process was the last class to graduate Eileen McGill Meko ’60 (right) and her granddaughter, for the Mount, however, included a Anna Grace Meko ’18, with the MSJA alumnae charter signed by Eileen’s boarding students. grandmother, Anna Watson Burke, and aunt, Mary Watson Scanlon, in 1929. personal interview with the principal.

In the early years, the I vividly remember walking up curriculum was a classical the large, formidable steps that academic program that also led to the rotunda, being greeted emphasized the fine arts and by a sister and then escorted to home arts. My grandmother the right parlour to meet with learned to write in beautiful Mother Sylvestor, who incidently script and became an excellent taught my mother. I was very embroiderer. She also studied nervous. Would I be accepted? the mandolin. In 1895, Mother Well, thankfully, I was and Saint Ephrem proposed the Continued on page 40...

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Alumnae Awards Rosemary McNally ’17 Alumnae Award

Hall of Fame Award

Mary Kate Haber Black ’80

Mariann Eichelberger O’Connor ’69

For eight years, Mary Kate Haber Black ’80 has shown exceptional dedication to the Alumnae Board as seen by her attendance at meetings, her accepting the responsibility of Recording Secretary, and her sitting on many committees.

When the Parents’ Association and Alumnae Association decided to merge their strengths, Mary Kate was one of the first “dual commitment” members to support efforts such as trips to NYC and Spring Fling. She has been active in the planning and running of Celebrauction as well. Mary Kate has also enlisted her husband, Pete, to help with events and to commit financially through participation in the Purple and Gold Club and the Mount Fund. While their daughters were students, Mary Kate and Pete also supported Mount athletics, and continued to do so after their daughters graduated.

As a student at the Mount, Mariann Eichelberger O’Connor ’69 achieved national acclaim for her many championships on the golf course. During her junior year, she was ranked number one among U.S. junior girls. At that time, the Mount did not have a golf team, but as Mariann competed nationally, her achievements on the golf course regularly appeared in the news.

Mary Kate’s experiences as a student at the Mount, no doubt, contributed to her desire to hold her friends and her alma mater close to her heart. She recognizes that the continued support of talents is necessary to help maintain our excellence as a school that educates young women to become leaders and founders. Her decades-long dedication and service to the Mount certainly exemplify our motto of Spes Mesis in Semine.

Mariann is living all that she has learned at the Mount, especially the time-honored pledge “to serve the dear neighbor.” She has been an active volunteer for Meals on Wheels for many years, delivering food to those in need.

She is known for her generosity of time and many forms of aid to struggling families, frequently treating them as her own family. Mariann made a commitment to service and helping others, all while leading her own accomplished professional life.

Mariann is the daughter of Mount alumna Mary Daimond Eichelberger ’41, who was president of the Alumnae Association in the late 1940s.

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2015 Athletic Hall of Fame Awards Kate Carlin ’03

Mount basketball star Kate Carlin ’03’s 1,000 Point Club banner is the only banner marking an individual achievement hanging in the Mount’s gym. This spring, Kate was once again recognized for her outstanding record by being inducted into the Mount’s Athletic Hall of Fame.

Kate started all four years for Mount’s varsity basketball team and spent two seasons as a forward on the field hockey team. After graduating from the Mount, she played basketball at Georgetown University, where she had a successful four-year career and set the Hoyas’ all-time record for most three-pointers scored in one game.

Of her time at the Mount, Kate said, “My proudest moment would have to be making it to the Final 8 of the AAAA Basketball State Championship my senior year. Looking out and seeing nothing but purple and gold and hearing students chanting ‘MSJ… MSJ…’ really put things into perspective for me. It was a group of people that might not have been best friends, but who were there for the common good: the Mount!”

Carlin said being inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame “is an incredible honor.”

She also offered some advice to today’s Mount athletes. “Make every day count. I think in today’s society we forget to see the bigger picture. Make every practice count, make every game count, and make every moment with your teammates count.”

Lois Trench-Hines ’60 Lois Trench-Hines ’60 was the first Mountie to be inducted into both the Mount Alumnae Hall of Fame and the Mount Athletic Hall of Fame.

Reflecting back, Lois said, “My athletic experience at the Mount and throughout my life can be translated into being an equalizer; meaning that no matter what your background, sports gives one the opportunity to grow within oneself regarding discipline and goals.”

Her great experience with rowing led her to participate in the 1973 National U.S. Women’s Team that competed in the World Championships in Moscow. Lois also petitioned the Dad Vail Regatta, the biggest college race in Philadelphia, to add women’s events.

In 1974, women raced for the first time in the Dad Vail.

In addition to her own athletic career, Trench-Hines also plays a huge role in Mount Athletics today, specifically with the Mount crew team.

Lois hopes that she will be involved in rowing for the rest of her life. As the CEO of Meniscus Limited, she often references sports in the workplace, carrying lessons learned on the water to the boardroom. Lois credits sports with teaching her to always finish what she begins.

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Summer 2015

Reunion 2015 On Saturday, March 28, more than 300 alumnae gathered for Reunion, which celebrated class years ending in 0s and 5s. The Class of ’90 celebrated their 25th reunion, and the Class of ’65 celebrated their 50th. Reunion began with a prayer service before the alumnae awards ceremony. The awards ceremony was followed by a cocktail party for all reunion classes.

1965

1970

1975

1980

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1990

1995

2000

2005

2010

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Class

Chatter

News and notes from the Mount Saint Joseph Academy alumnae and school community.

1950s Willa Byrne Cericola ’52 has so many memories of riding the #23 trolley car from Germantown and the bus at the loop to the Mount and looking up the long hill to school.

Willa loves the The Mount Magazine and saves them all to re-read.

Patricia McGonigal Feulner Carroll ’56 and husband, David, spent the month of February in South America on a cruise. Pat also continues to volunteer as a counselor at A Baby’s Breath, helping women to choose life for their unborn children.

Mary Lou Snyder Goldberg ’58 is realizing her late husband’s dream of living in a high rise on the beach.

Every day is a special gift from God in that beautiful location.

Natalie Nolan Berkey ’59 says that every day she gets out of bed is a good one! She is lucky enough to still be upright and traveling. Last September it was a trip to Turkey; this year it will be Norway. She is very grateful!

1960s Kathleen Kolb Lyons ’60 is traveling and enjoying her 13 grandchildren.

Anne Marie Manzo Schmalbach ’60 celebrated her 50th wedding anniversary with husband, Les, on May 9, 2014. They are happily retired and enjoy spending time with their children, Cecelia, Greg, and his wife, Liz. Cecilia is a head and neck surgeon at The University of Alabama in Birmingham. Greg is an actor in New York City and his wife, Liz, is an occupation therapist. The couple resides in Park Slope, Brooklyn.

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Summer 2015

Patricia Condon McDonough’s ’62 fifth child got married to Bill McBride in June 2014, the son of Mary Cane McBride ’66. The couple is expecting their first child in early August. Patricia and her husband, Bill, will be celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary in December.

Trish Dooley ’65 has been happily living on Amelia Island, FL, for ten years. She is retired from successful careers in tech sales and healthcare fundraising.

Dorothy Noska Goda ’65 and husband, Leo, have five children and ten grandchildren. Dorothy teaches piano and violin in her home studio and international folk dance at a local music camp for children. She expresses her gratitude to God for these opportunities.

Stephanie Comerford Kramer ’65 has been working as a real estate agent since moving to New Jersey 23 years ago. One of three sons is married and Stephanie has a grandson.

Coleen Flanigan Pontin ’65 has been married for 47 years and has two sons and seven grandchildren. She is retired and loves the opportunities to see so many old high school friends.

Catherine Palumbo Santoro ’65 announces the marriage of her son in September 2014. She retired in June 2015.

Carolyn Maziarz Williams ’65 and husband, Roger, have lived in California for 37 years. Carolyn retired from a career in education as a teacher, principal, and assistant superintendent. She is enjoying fun and activities with family and friends, and lots of travel.

Sally Mauchley Fitzsimmons ’66 has three granddaughters. She often babysits two, and Facetimes and Skypes with one in California.

Joan Morasco Parsons ’66 and husband, Skip, celebrated their anniversary in Hawaii. Their trip started in Phoenix, and the final destination was Kauai. It was the trip of a lifetime. Their seven grandchildren were very excited when they returned with hula skirts as gifts. Joan is still employed at the Philadelphia Institute of Dermatology. She and Skip are busy with their grandchildren and their activities in sports and music.

Their oldest granddaughter, Monica, is attending Cabrini College. Her children and their spouses reside in Oreland, PA. Pamela Rainey Lawler ’67, founder and board member of Philabundance, was named 2015 Pearl S. Buck International Woman of the Year.

Her commitment to the hungry people throughout the organization’s service area was honored at a dinner in Perkasie on April 30. Philabundance commended the honor by coordinating a food collection effort for the Keystone Opportunity Center in Souderton. Pam joins a distinguished group of 31 honorees, including Audrey Hepburn and Toni Morrison, who have been a positive influence to others who have witnessed their selfless acts, dedication, and commitment.

Class

Chatter

1970s Margaret Coupe Vesci’s ’70 husband, Ray, has retired after 34 years of service with the Springfield Township Police Department in Montgomery County. He is enjoying retirement and she is happy they don’t have to deal with shift work anymore!

1980s Mary Claire Dinda Kasunic ’80 has been appointed President of Oakland Catholic High School for Girls in the Archdiocese of Pittsburgh. Her fifth grandchild was born in October 2014.

Adrienne Ragan Kowalski ’87 and husband, Tim, were thrilled to welcome Anabelle Grace to their family in July 2014. Bella joins big brother TJ and sisters Michaela and Katie.

1990s

Renee Grasso Seamon ’90 and her husband, Bryan, are delighted to announce the birth of their fourth child. Giuliana Anne was born on March 13, 2014.

Jenna Franceski Linke ’92 and her husband, PJ, were happy to welcome their first daughter, Olivia Rain.

“Olive” joins the family’s dog, Andie, and cats Buster and Tyler in their home in Abington, PA. Heather Olivieri DiRienzo ’93 returned to working full-time this year.

She is the Coordinator of Educational Services at Springside Chestnut Hill Academy. Two of her three sons attend the academy. Hunter is in second grade, Dean is in kindergarten, and Hudson will join kindergarten next year.

Kristen Lis ’95 was the recipient of South Jersey Magazine’s Awesome Attorney honor in 2015 for the area of matrimonial law. Kristin got married on April 10, 2015 in Key West, FL, with Michelle Lis Parry ’97 as bridesmaid.

Erin O’Brien Garcia ’95 and husband, Jose, welcomed a baby girl, Susanna Louise, on July 20, 2014.

Katie Anderson Sierakowski ’95 and her husband, Steven, welcomed their first son, Harrison, on October 24, 2014. Harry is also the first grandson for Patricia Terpeluk Anderson ’69. Everyone is over the moon!

Marie-Helene Bertino’s ’95 debut novel, 2 A.M. at The Cat’s Pajamas, was published in October 2014 to critical acclaim. It was chosen for Barnes & Noble’s

Jennifer Dorazio Klein ’90 lives in Fort Washington with her husband, Michael, and three-year-old twins, Jacqueline and Harry. Jen works at Comcast corporate headquarters in Philadelphia as Senior Director of Video Content Management.

“Discover Great New Writers” program, where the book was described as “a

Jennifer Licata Rafter ’90 enjoys working as a nurse educator for a pharmaceutical company and helping to change the lives of patients. She has been married for 18 years to Mike Rafter, a 1990 graduate of LaSalle College High School. They have six wonderful children who keep them very busy! Brandon, 16, is a junior at Souderton High School; Julia, 12, and Aiden, 11, are students at Indian Crest Middle School; and Avery, Alyssa and Peyton, all age 6, attend kindergarten at Penn View Christian School. Jennifer and her family reside in Souderton, PA.

2014; Flavorwire named it one of the

sparkling, enchanting and staggeringly original debut novel about one day in the lives of three unforgettable characters.” BuzzFeed named it one of the most exciting literary debuts of 10 must-read books for August 2014, and included it in their list of “50 Excellent Novels by Female Authors Under 50 That Everyone Should Read.” Bertino also authored SAFE AS HOUSES, winner of the Iowa Short Fiction Prize. An Emerging Writer Fellow at New York’s Center for Fiction, she lives in Brooklyn.

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Class

Chatter

Back row, from left: Genevieve O’Mara ‘07, Chelsea Clark DeBoer ’07, Jen Havard ’07. Front row, from left: Deirdre Barr ‘07, Maddy Sasso ‘07, Meri Taylor ‘07.

2000s Rachel Houston Berlin ’00 and husband, Jason, welcomed a daughter, Lila Katherine, on August 20, 2012.

The family resides in Norton, Mass.

Rachel is Special Projects Leader at Liberty Mutual Insurance.

Meaghan Petetti Londergan ’00 has been named a partner at the law firm of Freeman Mathis & Gary, LLP in Philadelphia.

Colleen Kelly Miltenberg ’00 and husband, Christopher, welcomed a daughter, Caitlin Kelly, on February 7, 2015. She joins sister, Maggie, 4, and brother, Kevin, 2.

Chelsea Clark DeBoer ’07 married her college sweetheart, Ty DeBoer, in Philadelphia on September 13, 2014.

The couple met while studying at the University of Notre Dame. They wed at the Basilica Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul and celebrated at the Hyatt at the Bellevue. Chelsea and Ty now live in San Francisco, Calif. Her bridal party included several Mounties, who ended the night by singing The Mount’s alma mater!

Susan Kilgore Nieto ’00 and husband, Alex, were blessed with the arrival of their daughter, Emily Grace, on December 26, 2014.

Laura Vahle ’07 married Trevor Squires on October 3, 2014 at St. Basil the Great

Lauren O’Garro-Moore ’00 had her first baby, a little girl named Sloane Colette Brown, on September 14, 2014.

Sloane is doing wonderfully and they are so happy to have her in their lives.

in Kimberton, PA. Her sister, Nicole

Vahle ’10, was maid of honor. Also in attendance were Colleen Hope Bogle

’97, Kristen Hope Chun ’99, Megan Henrich Montagna ’88, Kimberly

Jenna Stabinski Giagnacova ’03 and husband, Greg, welcomed daughter Callie Rose on September 14, 2014. Jenna is a professional counselor at Conshohocken Counseling Services, which she co-founded three years ago.

Kathryn Brady Quigg ’03 and husband, Matt, welcomed a little girl named Margaret “Maggie” Catherine Brady Quigg, in October 2014. She’s already preparing for her future as a Mountie!

Eva Liggett Martin, M.D. ’05 sends her best wishes to the Class of 2005 for the tenth reunion and is sorry to miss this opportunity to reconnect.

Henrich Pagliaro ’87, and Dara Bellingham ’10.

Caroline Ayes ’09, Meredith LaSalle-Tarantin ’09 and Megan O’Reilly ’09 gathered for a mini reunion in Morocco. Caroline is in Morocco working as a Youth Asset Builder for the PeaceCorps.

Meredith is also in Morocco, serving as a Fulbright-commissioned English Teaching Assistant.

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Summer 2015

2010s

Laura Pacheco ’12 was a bone marrow donor last fall, and in December 2014 reported that the stem cell graft that she donated was well received by the recipient, and that the young boy’s health is improving. Union College posted an article on their Athletics site, which can be viewed in the “News” section. Laura welcomes inquiries from anyone wanting to know more about the recipient’s condition.

Connie Russin ’12 was named an Aramark Scholar at the University of Delaware’s prestigious Vita Nova restaurant. In her senior year, Connie will be responsible for supervising students in the kitchen during dinner service per Vita Nova’s five-star standards. Connie is enrolled in the Department of Hotel, Restaurant and Institutional Management (HRIM), a four-year major with a curriculum based in business management and specialized courses for the hospitality industry. She spent her first semester as a sophomore at the Swiss School of Tourism and Hospitality in Passugg, Switzerland.

Educating Founders since 1858

Cailin Schmeer ’12 secured an internship at the Institute of Economic Affairs in London, where she worked as a research intern. This summer, she will be in Boston, working at PricewaterhouseCoopers as a risk assurance intern.

Deadlines for notes:

Do you have chatter to share?

We enjoy hearing from you about various achievements, announcements and other important milestones in your life!

Please submit class notes online at www.msjacad.org/classchatter

Fall: September 15 Winter/Spring: February 7 Summer: May 7

New Arrivals Adrienne Ragan Kowalski ’87, on the birth of a daughter, Anabelle (“Bella”) Grace Renee Grasso Seaman ’90, on the birth of a daughter, Giuliana Anne Jenna Franceski Linke ’92, on the birth of a daughter, Olivia Rain (“Olive”) Erin O’Brien Garcia ’95, on the birth of a daughter, Susanna Louise Katie Anderson Sierakowski ’95, on the birth of a son, Harrison (“Harry”) Rachel Houston Berlin ’00, on the birth of a daughter, Lila Katherine Colleen Kelly Miltenberg ’00, on the birth of a daughter, Caitlin Kelly Susan Kilgore Nieto ’00, on the birth of a daughter, Emily Grace Lauren O’Garro-Moore ’00, on the birth of a daughter, Sloane Colette Brown Jenna Stabinski Giagnacova ’03, on the birth of a daughter, Callie Rose Kathryn Brady Quigg ’03, on the birth of a daughter, Margaret Catherine (”Maggie”)

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 We extend our sympathy and prayers to the families of the following alumnae: Mary Ann Fluehr Murphy ’43 Mary Kay Cunningham Segal ’43 Joan Waters Foltz ’48

In Memoriam

Our sympathy and prayers are extended to the following alumnae:

Rosemary Skelly Backus ’47, Susan Backus Crowley ’80, Patricia Backus Fiore ’84, Megan Backus ’04 and JoAnne Skelly Dougherty ’49, on the death of their husband, father, grandfather and brother-in-law respectively, John “Jack” Backus.

Frances Waters Shields ’56, on the death of her sister, Joan Waters Foltz ’48.

Edythe Fluehr Merrit ’68, Eva Fluehr ’70, Andrea Fluehr Albert ’70, Kimberly Fluehr Leland ’92, Christie Fluehr Himes ’95, Courtney Hain ’05 and Jacqueline Hain ’08, on the death of their aunt and great aunt respectively, Mary Ann Fluehr Murphy ’43.

Kathleen DeWan Pitts ’68, on the death of her husband, Dennis J. Pitts, Sr. Rosemary Robinson Nevergole ’70 and Jennifer Nevergole ’95, on the death of their mother-in-law and grandmother respectively, Ruth T. Nevergole.

Maryann Furtek Genuardi ’71, Larry Genuardi (former MSJA Board Member), Marisa Genuardi Nagano ’00, Mia Genuardi ’04, Monica Genuardi ’09 and Beth Genuardi Borrelli ’94, on the death of their father-in-law, father, grandfather and uncle respectively, Frank O. Genuardi.

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Summer 2015

Nancy Sykes Zavios ’76, Kathleen Sykes Moran ’80, Anne Fitzpatrick Sykes ’79 and Catherine Moran ’11, on the death of their brother, brotherin-law and uncle respectively, John H. “Jack” Sykes.

Donna Miller Fulmer ’77, on the death of her mother-in-law, Margaret D. Fulmer Murphy.

Patricia Lynch ’79, on the death of her mother, Roseanita Glackin Lynch.

Margaret Cassin Carpi ’80, Eileen Cassin Gallen ’82 (deceased) and Dr. Maureen Cassin ’84, on the death of their mother, Joan C. Campion Cassin.

Linda Tilley Smith ’84, Ruthanne Tilley Lambert-Lyons ’85 and Maureen Tilley Lesher ’89, on the death of their mother, Agnes “Chuckie” O’Brien Tilley.

Suzanne Ryan ’87, Maureen Ryan McCormick ’89 and Theresa Ryan ’91, on the death of their father, Walter J. “Bud” Ryan.

Genevieve Noderer Lynch ’91, on the death of her mother-in-law, Dorothy Claire Lynch.

Coleen Dyer Wybranski ’92, Roseanne Dyer Winkler ’97, Caitlyn Dyer ’02 and Diane Dyer (former staff), on the death of their grandmother and mother-in-law respectively, Anne E. Maloney Dyer.

Alyssa Bucci Edwards ’95, on the death of her grandmother, Catherine E. Bucci.

Kristi Kopach Crocker ’96, on the death of her father, Thomas F. Kopach.

Dr. Catena Crozier-Fitzgerald ’04 and Francesca Crozier-Fitzgerald ’06, on the death of their grandfather, John J. Fitzgerald, Jr. Colleen Kelly ’04 and Julianne Kelly ’06, on the death of their grandmother, MaryAnne Mitros Rambo.

Sarah Reinprecht ’05, Katherine Reinprecht ’08 and Julia Reinprecht ’09, on the death of their grandfather, Rudolph “Rudy” Reinprecht.

Caitlin Cain ’07 and Marielle Cain ’11, on the death of their grandmother, Mary Mackey Cain.

Jessica Bonet ’13, on the death of her father, Harry Bonet, M.D. Marissa Flood ’14, on the death of her grandmother, Elizabeth “Betsy” McNamee Flood.

Brinna McGillin’15, on the death of her grandmother, Miriam Diebold McGillin.

Mary Joy David ’17, on the death of her grandfather, Louis J. Pacinelli.

Paul Clark (MSJA Chef), on the death of his father, Jack A. Clark.

Mount

RUNWAY 2015 WHEN: THURSDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2015 6:00 PM WHERE: WHITEMARSH VALLEY COUNTRY CLUB LAFAYETTE HILL, PA

Special thanks to last year’s Chair, Jill Romanelli, pictured with her daughter, Serena Romanelli ’15.

REGISTRATION OPENS IN SEPTEMBER! SPONSORED BY THE SPECIAL EVENTS COMMITTEE

The MSJA Student Council, along with our alumnae, will be hosting the Miles of Magic 5K on

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2015.

The 5k/Fun Run/Walk will be an extension of our Breast Cancer Marathon.

All proceeds will benefit the Stephanie Leonards Roman Memorial Scholarship at The Mount.

Details, including sponsorship opportunities and registration information, will be posted on The Mount’s website and email updates.

Please note: Registration for this event is limited. mount saint joseph academy

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Mary Eileen Burke McGill ’33, in the last seat of the third row, in her sophomore class yearbook photo (1931).

entered the Mount in 1956. I did not board; I was a “day-hop” and the mode of transportation was car, bus, or trolley.

I was inducted into the sodality of Children of Mary to which my mother and grandmother belonged. We processed single file in silence to the Motherhouse Chapel to pray and sing the same devotions that two generations before had done. I wore the same blue serge uniform with white hem-stitched collar and cuffs that my mother did. And we graduated in the same Grecian cap and gown from the same beautiful chapel as did the Class of 1933.

My children grew up in Lower Providence Township. There was no bus, train, trolley or horseless carriage that would transport students to schools such as the Mount. The only transportation was by car. All that would change in 1981 when the Pennsylvania Legislature passed a law mandating that all students within a school district were to be transported to the schools of their choice within ten miles of the borders of the designated school district. And, with that law, what I saw as a major obstacle to my daughter attending the Mount was cleared! I sincerely believe that it was the Hand of God that was responsible for clearing the path and allowing my daughter, Julie, to have the same wonderful opportunities at Mount Saint Joseph as generations before her had.

Julie Anne Meko ’88 entered the Mount in 1985. Many changes had taken place since 1960. The Academy had relocated to the “New Mount” in Flourtown, the uniforms had changed, and the academic and sports rosters had grown significantly.

Students, however, still followed a rigorous academic roster 40

Summer 2015

Julie Ann Meko ’88 on graduation day.

that reflected the newest curriculum advancements of the ’80s.

Wearing the same Grecian cap and gown, Julie graduated from the Mount in 1988, and became the fourth generation of Mounties in my family.

Last September, my son’s daughter, Anna Grace Meko ’18, entered the Mount. What a proud moment this was for me to see the fifth generation in my family begin her journey with my beloved Mount!

Throughout my family’s century-and-a-quarter association with the Mount, so much has changed, and yet, so much has remained the same. The “old Mount,” built in 1906, is now part of Chestnut Hill College and the “new Mount” in Flourtown is over fifty years old. Our beloved sisters wear street clothes and the girls no longer have to walk single file to the right, “no talking ever, please!” But, the rigorous academic tradition, the emphasis on fine arts, the values of a Catholic education, and the importance of the education and leadership of young women in a changing society are still at the foundation of a Mount education. The Sisters of Saint Joseph were looking to the future when they founded the Mount in 1858. Then, as now, they believed that “On the education of women largely depends the future of society.”

May God continue to bless our alma mater, its dedicated sisters and faculty, and the girls who become the harvest of the future.

The hope of the harvest is in the seed. Spes Messis in Semine!

Admission Dates 2015

Open House Sunday, October 18, 2015 12 - 3 p.m.

Scholarship/Entrance Exam Saturday, October 31, 2015 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.

120 W. Wissahickon Avenue, Flourtown, PA 19031 (215) 233-9133 | admiss@msjacad.org | www.msjacad.org mount saint joseph academy

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Winter/Spring 2014

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NON PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE PAID LANGHORNE, PA PERMIT #118

120 West Wissahickon Avenue Flourtown, PA 19031-1899 RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

The

Mount

23rd

Annual

Blue Bell Country Club

Monday, September 21, 2015 www.msjacad.org/golf2015