Mount Magazine: Spring 2022

Educating Founders since 1858

Moun t Sa i n t Joseph Ac a de my Ma ga z i n e

Living By St. Joseph’s Example Spring 2022

contents [Mount Magazine]

MAGAZINE Mount Magazine is an official publication of Mount Saint Joseph Academy.

Mount Magazine is published two times a year (Winter/Spring and Summer) for students, alumnae, parents and friends of Mount Saint Joseph Academy.

managing editor Kristen DiPrinzio photography Bradley Digital Sam Fritch Photography design Maridel McCloskey, McCloskey Designs class chatter Rose Lamphere

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president Sister Charlene Diorka, SSJ

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principal Elizabeth Blessing

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chief development officer Mary Ravenfeld

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director of annual giving & alumnae relations Kelly Keane Owens ‘04

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director of communications & marketing Kristen DiPrinzio

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director of events & parent relations Theresa Moyer

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development coordinator Rose Lamphere

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

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Spring 2022

I I I I I I I I I I I I I I

Letter from the President On the Mount Go Mount Living By St. Joseph’s Example The Investitute of S. Charlene Diorka, SSJ Founders’ Day Mount Fashion Show Mount Golf Classic Alumnae Reunion Golden Girls Luncheon Legacy Pinning Ceremonies Class Chatter In Memoriam

Letter from the President After a year of hybrid, virtual learning, the 2021-2022 academic school year began with great joy and enthusiasm. Students returned to in-person learning, co-curricular activities, the competition of sports and new academic leadership – Principal Elizabeth Blessing and Dean of Student Life, Elle Rupert. The school community engaged the Year of Saint Joseph by holding our patron as the beacon and guide for the year. Utilizing the theme of Leadership Rooted in Gentle Courage and Maxim 52 Interpret all things from the best point of view, the Mount Community has embraced the example of Saint Joseph each day.

Saint Joseph, a father to us all, an everyday saint, a man of few words, offers us the values that are guiding us through this year. His obedience reminds us of the importance of listening. His selflessness invites us to think of the dear neighbor before ourselves. Leading by example highlights the significance of actions that are just, loving and faithful. Being a worker, Saint Joseph teaches the value of hard work. Finally, as a leader, Saint Joseph expressed leadership as a loving husband, a man of faith, the family provider, a teacher for his son. We are reminded that all of us in the Mount Community are called to lead everyday not just those who hold a position of leadership.

As you read the Mount Magazine, you will see leadership, rooted in gentle courage, like Saint Joseph emulated, in our students and demonstrated in countless other moments at the Mount. Ordinary things are being done extraordinarily well. In this year of my investiture as the third president of the Mount, I am inspired by my predecessors, both presidents and principals, in the unbroken succession since 1858 of leadership by Sisters of Saint Joseph at Mount Saint Joseph Academy. Like these sisters and in the gentle courage of Saint Joseph, I strive to uphold our mission on the education of women largely depends the future.

We are blessed with amazing young women at the Mount who continue to manifest that the hope of the harvest is in the seed for this time in our history.

Dedicated faculty and staff lead and guide the development of these students in mind and spirit. Committed parents and alumnae encourage and support them in the ordinary and extraordinary opportunities. May the work this year – listening, leading by example, being selfless, working hard and being a leader – help us to become the community we are called to be and faithful to the mission that we have been entrusted. Go to Joseph!

Yours in Saint Joseph,

Sister Charlene Diorka, SSJ President

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On The Mount 1

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In late August, we welcomed our school community back in person to kick off the 2021-2022 school year. The first day for all grades began with students, faculty, and staff gathering outdoors, near the student entrance, to sing the Alma Mater.

The Mount hosted Play 4 The Cure, a field hockey clinic benefitting breast cancer research, for field hockey athletes in grade and middle school. The event was held during October in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

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In November, the Mount presented Godspell, but gave the musical a unique twist. From the revived 2012 version, they placed the musical in the Roaring Twenties, emphasizing a period of growth, enlightenment, and good music. The stage was set at as a speakeasy, which brought out diverse themes within the production. The cast was led by director Kaitlin McCool ’07, producer Matthew Dominick (faculty), vocal director Danielle Molan (faculty), choreographer Amelia Anderson ’08, and music director Alex Schmauk (faculty).

Young alumnae returned to the Mount to attend Thanksgiving Liturgy and the College-Age Social.

Spring 2022

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Students in Mrs. Fabrey’s Journalism I class attended a virtual panel with Jodi Kantor and Megan Twohey, journalists from The New York Times who brought the allegations against Harvey Weinstein to light and launched the #metoo movement. The panel focused on student journalism and the journalists, who also authored Chasing the Truth, shared insights on how to conduct investigative journalism at the high school level.

For her Women As Founders project, senior Sydney Okeke organized a donation drive for feminine hygiene projects. Accompanied by seniors in Mrs. Kennedy’s and Mrs. Escobar’s Theology classes and two reporters from The Campanile, students traveled to The Spot in Germantown. The organization’s goal is ending period poverty, and they will distribute donations to individuals in Philadelphia and the surrounding areas. This visit kicked off Black History Month celebrations at the Mount, as students had the opportunity to visit this local non-profit run by two strong and passionate Black women.

The new Mountie Power Hour alumnae discussion series kicked off virtually on January 24, with Tina D’Orazio Gedgard ’94 as the inaugural guest. Tina is Chief of Staff at the Philadelphia Eagles. She spoke about her career as a woman in a sports franchise, and what she does for the

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School news from Mount Saint Joseph Academy

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Eagles, including her key role in designing the Eagles’ 2018 Super Bowl ring. Kate Groark Shields ’93 (mother of Anne ’23 and Quinn ’24) moderated the lively discussion.

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Students in Mrs. Melissa Feilke’s US Modern History I course created an installation in honor of Black History Month. In class, they presented an image and biography of an iconic Black individual, which was then used to create a gallery wall in the hallway. Students in the course were also required to write a five-paragraph essay on the person they presented to the class.

As part of the Black History Month celebrations at the Mount, Mr. Tyrone Macey (staff) performed Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s “I’ve Been to the Mountaintop” speech, originally given by Dr. King in 1968 on the day before he was assassinated. Mr. Macey was a theater major, and students look forward to his moving performance every year. Mr. Macey is pictured here with Sister Charlene, seniors Sydney Okeke and Samantha Ammons (leaders of MSJA’s Diversity Club), and Mrs. Katie Kennedy (moderator of the Diversity Club and Theology teacher), who were instrumental in developing innovative ways in which our community celebrated Black History Month.

students competed in the first round of “auditions” 10 Sixteen for the U.S. Physics Team, under the guidance of Ms. Kathleen Hennessy (Science teacher). These students are shining examples of women in STEM!

Marin Stensrud brought in supplies to Ms. 11 Freshman Kathleen Ochs’s Old Testament class for students to make bags for the Bethesda Project, a Philadelphia shelter for individuals experiencing homelessness.

of Presidents’ Day, students in Ms. Gina Beren’s AP 12 Ahead Government class played “Monopoly: A House Divided” to learn about the Presidential campaign process.

chromatography laboratory in Mrs. Peg Goldschmidt’s 13 The Honors Chemistry II class became a star-crossed event

when junior Elizabeth Sadorf created a “Starry Night”inspired design in the lab and Sister Charlene added her starry “handprint” to the lesson. They both arrived wearing the Van Gogh-inspired apparel on the same day!

celebrated MagicTHON, a festive fundraiser 14 Students centered around dancing from noon to 10:00 p.m.

Students and volunteers raised a record $106,197.31 for Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Pictured are co-chairs Maggie Pensabene ’22 and Sarah Burns ’22. mount saint joseph academy

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CROSS COUNTRY FIELD HOCKEY

Go Mount CROSS COUNTRY

FIELD HOCKEY

Head coach: Kitty McClernand Overall record: 10-1 League finish: AACA Champions Captains: Mary McGrory ’22, Maggie Murphy ’23 AACA All-Stars:

Head Coach: Kyra Castano Overall Record: 5-1-13 League Finish: 4-9 Captains: Katie Convey ’22, Devon Lasky ’22, Ashley Timby ’22 AACA All-Stars: Katie Convey, Campbell Donovan ’22, Ashley

• 1st Team, all league: Ella Woehlcke ’24 (also AACA League Champion) • League runner-up: Mary McGrory • Sarah Hughes ’22 and Olivia Forti ’22 • 2nd team: Maggie Murphy • Honorable Mention: Carolyn Arnold ’22

Individual & Team Accomplishments:

• Ella Woehlcke finished in the top 10 of all invites and won two of them; finished 4th at District 1 championships and 24th at States, earning her All-State.

• The varsity team won 4 out of 5 invites, 2nd in one of the biggest races of the season (PIAA Foundation race).

• JV came in 3rd, 4th, and 4th at their invites.

• Both Varsity and JV won the AACA Championship and took both individual crowns, Ella Woehlcke and Mary Kate Seiberlich ’24 • At District 1 AAA championship the team finished a strong 7th, with three girls moving onto the State championship. Ella Woehlcke finished 24th, Mary McGrory finished 70th, and Sarah Hughes finished 97th in an extremely talented field of runners.

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Timby

Individual & Team Accomplishments:

• 15th in 3A District 1 playoff • All-State Academic Team: Alyssa Brachelli ’22, Katie Convey, Olivia Cook ’22, Mackenzie Craig ’22, Lauren Dachowski ’23, Campbell Donovan, Nora Haney ’23, Ella Kiefner ’22, Devon Lasky, Devin Loome ’23, Erin Maguire ’23, Jane Mezzanotte ’22, Lauren O’Malley ’22, Aisling Scibelli ’23, Julia Solecki ’23, Ashley Timby, Skylar Vacca ’22 • All-State Team Award: Varsity Team GPA: 3.77; JV Team GPA: 3.621 • Nominated for NFHCA Academic Award: Alyssa Brachelli, Katie Convey, Olivia Cook, Mackenzie Craig, Lauren Dachowski, Campbell Donovan, Ella Kiefner, Devin Loome, Jane Mezzanotte, Lauren O’Malley, Aisling Scibelli, Julia Solecki, Ashley Timby • Selected for NFHCA Senior Impact Award: Katie Convey

GOLF SOCCER

GOLF

SOCCER

Head Coaches: John Mischler & Jules Quinones Overall Record: 14-1 League Finish: AACA League Champions Captains: Nora Blatney ’22 and Caroline Gola ’22 AACA All-Stars: Nora Blatney, Layla Giovanniello ’22, Caroline

Head Coach: David McCauley Overall Record: 3-14-1 League Finish: 2-1-7 Captains: Anna Shields ’22, Delaney Mattson ’22, Kate Kelly ’22 AACA All-Stars: First Team: Kate Kelly; Second Team: Samantha

Gola, Allie Petkunas ’22, Lauren Quirk ’22, Gabi Courtney ’23, Emma McGrath ’23, Taylor Delli Carpini ’24, Julia Schaefer ’25 Individual & Team Accomplishments:

• Caroline Gola and Gabi Courtney finished as Medalists at AACA Championships • Caroline Gola qualified and then finished in 6th place at the PIAA State Individual Golf

Ammons ’22

Individual & Team Accomplishments:

• 18th seed in District 1 3A

Tournament

• Team finished in third place at the PIAA District 1 Tournament

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TENNIS VOLLEYBALL

TENNIS

VOLLEYBALL

Head Coach: Joy Grafenstine Overall Record: 14-0 League Finish: 12-0, 1st place Captains: Shanele Tamulevicius ’22 and Sarah Fedders ’22 AACA All-Stars: Megan Martin ’23, Beth Murray ’23, Shanele

Head Coach: Amy Bergin Overall Record: 18-5 League Finish: 17-4 Postseason: 1-1 Captains: Dylan Flannery ’22, MaryKate Feilke ’22 AACA All-Stars: Dylan Flannery, Taylor Montgomery ’23,

Tamulevicius, Ellie Devine ’22 Team Accomplishments:

• 7th consecutive League Championship, overall record past seven years 104-0 in regular season • Rookie Megan Martin had an undefeated season • Beth Murray had an undefeated season • Shanele Tamulevicius and Ellie Devine had an undefeated doubles season

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MaryKate Feilke

Individual & Team Accomplishments:

• PVCA AAA All-State: Dylan Flannery, Taylor Montgomery

Living by St. Joseph’s Example As 2021 drew to a close, so did the celebration of the Year of Saint Joseph. Last year commemorated the 150th anniversary of the declaration of St. Joseph as Patron of the Universal Church. St. Joseph’s character, gentleness, and generosity were underscored during the height of the pandemic, when the frailty of human life was stark and evident. Pope Francis called Catholics to reflect on St. Joseph’s qualities as a father, laborer, teacher, and leader.

At the Mount, students personified St. Joseph’s most admirable qualities on a daily basis. One student addressed the UN to advocate for children’s rights, echoing the courageous and protective father that was St. Joseph. One excelled academically, diligently working for hours on honing her intellectual craft, just as St. Joseph did as a carpenter. One is a pioneer who embarked on a solo immersive academic journey, exhibiting the leadership that was inherent in St. Joseph. This group – a microcosm of the extraordinary student body that courses through the halls of the Mount – are shining examples of how we live the Mount’s mission and embody the spirit of the Sisters of St. Joseph. Their stories are poignant reminders that the hope of the harvest is in the seed.

Valarie Rubinstein ’22 Last fall, senior Valarie Rubinstein accomplished a rare feat: she earned a perfect score on the ACT exam, something less than one half of 1 percent of all test takers do. In the Class of 2021, more than 1.29 million American students took the ACT; only 4,055 earned a perfect score.

In fitting Mount fashion, Valarie remains humble about her accomplishments. After learning that she earned the highest possible ACT composite score of 36, she was glad that she prepared for the college entrance exam while keeping things in perspective.

“I was of course happy, but I realize that standardized tests aren’t too important overall,” Valarie said.

Valarie ardently prepared for the exam, mostly studying through practice tests. She found those exercises helpful in getting a sense of the material covered in the test and managing time constraints.

Valarie also relied on certain study tactics that she uses regularly to become familiar with subject material. Making connections between concepts and relating them to each other helps her rely less on memorization and more on understanding the material.

“I usually try to make sure I understand the connections between different ideas,” Valarie said. “If I understand one topic, I can learn a new one by drawing parallels and building on previous knowledge instead of simply forcing myself to learn a new block of information in isolation.”

Valarie enjoys Physics, Computer Science, English, and Latin and is enrolled in an independent study course in Multivariable Calculus with Ms. Kathleen Hennessy (Science faculty), who Valarie cites as a mentor and influence.

“Valarie [has] a voracious appetite for knowledge,” says Ms. Hennessy, who echoes Valarie’s sentiments that she strives to learn material on a deep level. “When she approaches a subject, she seeks to understand it deeply.

She doesn’t settle for surface understanding. This is going to make her a fantastic physicist. The problems that physics of the 21st century seeks to solve are incredibly complex and require the kind of thinking that Valarie is developing.” mount saint joseph academy

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Much like St. Joseph, Valarie embraces the toil and hard work that is necessary to achieve one’s goals. At the Mount, she has been continually committed to learning material through lessons and hands-on experience inside and outside of the classroom. She takes advantage of many of the clubs and activities that the Mount offers, such as the Firebirds robotics program. Valarie joined the Firebirds last year and has grown into a vital team member as a programmer.

“Valarie is a gift to the robotics team,” said Mrs. Paula Soley, Science faculty and Lead Mentor of the Firebirds. “I appreciate how she considers others’ comments and ideas carefully and reflects before responding. Valarie asks great questions and truly listens to the answers. She has a unique blend of academic brilliance, humility, and compassion. We are blessed to have her on our team.”

Sine Thompson ’24 Sophomore Sine Thompson, a history lover, embarked on a journey to immerse herself in our nation’s history in the birthplace of American independence. When she learned about the Spirit of America Youth Leadership Program, she was eager to attend the four-day residential conference for high school students focused on history. The program offers students the chance to interact with experts on democracy, citizenship, the political process, and more through lectures, historical site visits and tours, and workshops designed to develop leadership skills and encourage engaged citizenship among students.

During the program, Sine took part in historical debates with students from across the country, acted as a historical congressional figure to present bills for ratification, and toured Independence Hall and the National Constitution Center.

The program is a joint effort between The Connelly Foundation and Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge. The program, which has been hosted for more than 50 years, provides high school students an immersive experience to explore the spirit and philosophies of America’s founding through debates about Constitutional rights; mock discussions with founders like Thomas Jefferson; walking in the footsteps of history at Independence Hall and Valley Forge; and investigating character as a means to civic leadership.

Valarie with Ms. Kathleen Hennessy (Science faculty) during their independent study in Multivariable Calculus.

To further enrich her love of math, Valarie competes in Varsity Mathletes and the Pennsylvania Math League (PAML), an organization that advocates for the study and enjoyment of math through competitions. This year, she joined the Academic Bowl team, in which members participate in a quizstyle competition. Valarie’s interests span a wide range; she is also a contributor to The Muse, the Mount’s literary magazine.

In March, Valarie was named a Finalist in the National Merit Scholarship Corporation’s (NMSC) program. More than 16,000 students across the country were eligible, yet a portion of those advance to the Finalist level. Valarie met the qualifications to progress through the Commended Student and Semifinalist rounds to be named a Finalist. As of press time, NMSC was determining which Finalists would earn scholarships. Valarie will attend Princeton University in the fall to study Physics. Although she does not have specific career plans at this point, she will most likely work in scientific research if she continues studying physics at the graduate level, or, if she decides to shift her focus in graduate school, as an engineer.

“It won’t be long before her trajectory takes her past that which I can understand, and I love that,” says Ms. Hennessy.

“She is going to be learning from some of the greatest scientists in the world at Princeton, and it’s just a matter of time before they are learning from her.”

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“I was really excited to learn more about the history of early America,” Sine said. “I was nervous about, but also looking forward to, meeting other students from across the nation interested in the same subject.”

The program ran last fall, on a Thursday evening through Sunday, and the schedule for each day focused on a different historical aspect or activity.

Programming included lectures from university professors on the Constitution and amendments.

“During the first day, we talked about the six pillars of character: responsibility, respect, trustworthiness, fairness, citizenship, and caring,” Sine says.

The students engaged in a mock debate in which they assumed the roles of house representatives. Students were given bills that they edited in small groups and presented for ratification, and the larger group voted to amend or ratify each bill.

In addition to learning about amendments she was not previously aware of, like freedom of expression and freedom to private property, Sine says the debates were where she really shined.

“I’m better at public speaking now,” she says. “Engaging in a respectful debate without shouting and trying to bring the other person down taught me a lot about speaking in front of a group and interacting with new people. It showed me a way to form my own independence. The debate was the most rewarding experience of the conference.”

Sine said it reminded her of when she first came to the Mount. She was the only student from her grade school who enrolled at the Mount, and embarking on this program alone exhibited gentle courage, harkening to St. Joseph. As a teenager,

occasionally making stops along the way to explore select locations. Their tour guide helped the group understand everything from the daily life of the soldiers in the encampment to the famous leaders who helped shape the outcome of the war. After the tour, guest speakers spoke on entrepreneurship and students broke into groups to develop original products and pitch them to a panel of judges (a format similar to the TV show Shark Tank).

On Sunday’s itinerary was a visit to the Constitution Center that included a tour of Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. Participants got an inside glimpse of the environment in which the nation was founded, and also what the process was like in the 1700s. Seeing the locations helped students visualize certain historical moments and absorb the knowledge in a hands-on manner.

Mrs. Alaina Schools, Social Studies faculty, said that Sine’s genuine enthusiasm for history is evident in class as she learns material and focuses on American history as a whole.

“Sine is a lover of learning who makes great connections across time periods when working to understand the history of the United States,” Mrs. School said.

“In AP U.S. History, we strive to use historical thinking skills that show causation, comparison, and continuity and change over time. Sine’s ability to understand the big picture and apply these skills to both her work and her contributions in our class discussions is impressive.”

Although she was motivated to attend the conference because of her love of history, Sine said it ended up being a rewarding experience overall that expanded her knowledge, sharpened certain skills, and even helped her grow as a person.

“The entire experience was really fun, and I learned so much,” Sine says. “I would definitely recommend it to other students who are interested in history.”

Amilyn Thomas ’22

entering an environment for four full days not knowing anyone can be daunting, despite the wonderful learning opportunities the program presented. By following her passion and love of history, Sine emulated some of St. Joseph’s bravest qualities.

“I got to meet a lot of people my age from different schools in the area,” Sine said. “This was a really great opportunity to get out of my comfort zone and see what is available to me.”

Saturday included a tour of Valley Forge and a host of guest speakers discussing topics such as entrepreneurship. During the tour of Valley Forge, students experienced the site of the 1777-78 winter encampment of the Continental Army under General George Washington. Students rode a bus throughout the historic site,

As a leader, St. Joseph was a devoted husband and father, man of faith, and provider. Looking to his example, all members of the Mount community are called to lead on a daily basis. Senior Amilyn Thomas had a rare opportunity to do this when she addressed members of the United Nations during the General Day of Discussion. Representing the U.S., Amilyn was the only non-adult to address the U.N. that day. The topic of the day was children’s rights and alternative care, and speakers discussed the need for care for children around the world, with an emphasis on equality and equal access for all. Since the conference was virtual, Amilyn had the opportunity to participate from her home.

Amilyn’s path to securing a speaking role began before her freshman year at the Mount. She enrolled in a creative writing course at Adelphi University in New York. Amilyn has a younger brother with special needs, and she penned a poem about her experience during her brother’s first seizure. She was 10 years old at the time, and recalled the traumatic experience of calling 911, retrieving her brother’s medication, and seeing her mother tend to her brother. Amilyn’s work made an impression on the professor of the course, who noted that she was a talented writer and a strong speaker.

In the years that followed, Amilyn volunteered through her church with Lumen Vitae, a Catholic organization, with outreach to children in Haiti. She also was working with the organization Lumos, which advocates for families and global care systems. Being active within these organizations paved the path to her UN mount saint joseph academy

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journey, as her contact at Lumos was the one who offered her the opportunity to speak as the U.S. representative at the conference. Since it was by invitation only, Amilyn needed a recommendation, which the professor of the Adelphi course happily offered to write.

The discussion topic, children’s rights and alternative care, was one that Amilyn has been passionate about for quite some time. In the spring 2021 issue of Mount Magazine, she spoke about how her brother’s condition piqued her interest in a career in the sciences. She also recently completed an internship at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP). Having grown up with her brother and witnessing his journey firsthand, she felt passionate about speaking to members of the U.N. on alternative care.

“There were times when [my family was] really lucky because we live in America,” Amilyn said. “We had access to an education system that provided my family with information on how to care for a special needs child. We had access to a health care system that could provide care for my brother when he needed it, and insurance to help cover the costs. We had access to an ambulance that transported him quickly to the care he needed when timing was critical. We had access to great hospitals, doctors, and nurses to provide care that was key to his survival.”

Amilyn’s journey continued when she traveled to Harrisburg in November 2021 to receive a Citation from Tom Wolf, Governor of Pennsylvania. Governor Wolf met with Amilyn to commend her work in representing the U.S. and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania at the United Nations.

Amilyn spoke with Governor Wolf about child rights and education…and even South Indian food and monsoons! Stephanie Sun, Executive Director of the Governor’s Advisory Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs, coordinated the meeting and also was present.

In January 2022, Amilyn met with Madeline Dean, U.S. Representative for Pennsylvania’s 4th congressional district (which encompasses most of Montgomery County). Ms. Dean was aware of Amilyn’s accomplishments, and she invited Amilyn to her office during a day reserved for meeting with constituents.

“It was more of a get-to-know-you meeting, and less formal than my trip to the Governor’s office,” Amilyn said.

Ms. Dean shared with Amilyn how she works with and for her constituents, and shared that she has a background in writing and literature. Amilyn shared that science is her forte, but she is cognizant of the fact that strong writing skills are necessary in all fields.

Ms. Dean gave Amilyn a book on writing and shared some tips with her before the meeting concluded.

As of press time, Amilyn was developing her Women As Founders project. She wanted her project to focus on advocacy for special-needs children. She plans to collaborate with the Hatboro-Horsham Montgomery County Intermediate Unit (MCIU). Her goal is to host a drive that will result in donations of art supplies. She and a group of Mount students will then travel there to complete art projects with the students.

“Collaborative, hands-on learning is important for special needs students,” Amilyn noted.

Yet again, she was inspired by her brother to give back and empower special needs children. As she has noted several times, her brother is the primary reason she advocates for children and plans to pursue a career in science.

“Ami’s drive is motivated largely by the experiences she’s shared with her younger brother,” said Mrs. Katie Kennedy, Theology teacher. “She seeks to be a voice for children who are often overlooked and whose needs are not considered, and I admire her leadership and example as a big sister and advocate.”

Amilyn will attend The University of Pennsylvania in the fall, majoring in Neuroscience.

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Amilyn with Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf during a meeting at the Governor’s office in Harrisburg.

In the spirit of the mission of the Sisters of Saint Joseph, the Mount community celebrated the Investiture of Sister Charlene Diorka, third President of Mount Saint Joseph Academy, last fall.

The events commemorated the change in leadership and illustrated Sister Charlene’s vision for the future of the Academy.

On Friday, September 24, 2021, a formal investiture ceremony was held at the Mount. Members of the Sisters of Saint Joseph, the MSJA Board of Directors, administration, faculty, staff, students, alumnae, and guests participated. Serving as Master of Ceremonies was Jeffrey Kohler (father of Emily Kohler Marbot ’04, Katie Kohler Dalhoff ’05, Claire Kohler Bennett ’08, and Madeline ’12), member of the MSJA Board of Directors. Greetings on behalf of the MSJA Board of Directors were presented by Pamela Hunt Gwaltney ’79; on behalf of the Sisters of Saint Joseph by Congregational President Sister Maureen Erdlen, SSJ; on behalf of former Mount Presidents by Sister Mary Dacey, SSJ; on behalf of the alumnae by Emily Kohler Marbot ’04, President of the MSJA Alumnae Board; on behalf of the faculty and staff by Donald Holdren, Dean of Studies; and on behalf of the students by Mary Kate Feilke ’22, President of MSJA’s Student Leadership Council. Robert Havard (father of Meredith ’06, Jennifer Havard Loiaconno ’07, and Grace ’15), Chair of the MSJA Board of Directors, led the Investiture.

Rev. Kevin DePrinzio, OSA, Ph.D., Vice President of Mission and Ministry at Villanova University, delivered the invocation and benediction. Sophia Henkel ’23 performed the National Anthem, with Giovanna Consiglio ’22 accompanying her on piano.

Parents, alumnae (including many former students of Sister Charlene), friends of the Mount, and other special guests attended a reception after to extend their congratulations.

On Saturday, September 25, guests attended a gala at the Union League Liberty Hill in Lafayette Hill for an elegant evening of socialization and fundraising.

The gala included an auction that benefitted the newly-established Investiture Scholarship Fund, with the goal of supporting future students and making a Mount education more accessible to all.

We thank all guests who attended, and who are invested in a bright future for Mount Saint Joseph Academy.

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Prospective Families: Schedule a Personal Tour!

One of the best ways to visit the Mount is by scheduling a private guided tour led by a member of our Admissions staff. During your personalized session, you will tour our beautiful 78-acre campus and all the facilities we offer, take a closer look at classes in session, and get a feel for what a Mount education entails. Tours are by appointment only; to schedule, please call 215-233-9133.

Be a Mountie!

We will begin accepting applications for the Class of 2027 this summer. For the most current information on the application process, visit msjacad.org/apply

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Founders’ Day Students, faculty, and staff joyously celebrated Founders’ Day in person in October 2021. The annual celebration honors the founding of the Sisters of Saint Joseph and the rich history of the Mount. The day began with the traditional walk on Wissahickon Avenue to the Motherhouse Chapel at Chestnut Hill College. A special Founders’ Day Mass was celebrated to honor the Mount and the SSJs. After the walk back, students participated in a day of games and fun!

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Runway

The Mount Fashion Show returned in person in 2021!

The runway was back at Whitemarsh Valley Country Club in October, with more than 30 models (seniors, alumnae, administration, and faculty). Fashions were generously provided by Bloomingdales, and this year, models chose their own outfits! Thank you to all who modeled and volunteered to make this event a success, especially Event Chair Molly Costigan (Claire ’23) and the Fashion Show Committee.

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THE MOUNT

G  C

The 29th Annual Mount Golf Classic was held on October 11th at Green Valley Country Club in Lafayette Hill. Golfers had a beautiful, warm day to play. We hosted a morning and afternoon tee time as well as a 9-hole session, which was new this year.

We were thrilled to welcome alumnae and student golf team members to add some friendly competition to the outing!

Isabella DiLisio ’15 (former University of Notre Dame golfer) was present to compete in the Beat the Pro contest. Golf team members Caroline Gola ’22, Allie Petkunas ’22, Nora Blatney ’22 and Gabi Courtney ’23 were on hand for the Hire the Pro contests.

After a full day of golf, the cocktail reception was reinstated for the first time since the start of the pandemic.

The outing raised more than $65,000 for the endowment and scholarship funds. Thank you to all who supported this event. The Mount extends its gratitude to chairs Tracy Allu-Albertelli ’93, Sue Doney Leonard ’81 (mother of Siobhan ’16, Hanna ’14, Rose ’18, and Analese ’23) and Lewy Scanlon (father of Maura ’21 and Katherine ’25), the entire Golf Committee and all volunteers who helped at the event.

mount saint joseph academy

19

LOGO OPTION 1

Fontbonne, Café Undergo Additonal Renovations

Fontbonne and the Café were recently freshened up with additional renovations. The Café features new seating, with booths and a mix of high-top and traditional tables that accommodate larger groups of students.

Along the back wall is a mural installation that features a panoramic view of campus.

Fontbonne also has a bank of booth seating, and large tables. There are also ergonomic LOGO OPTION 2 so students can “egg” chairs that tilt back reclineLOCATION to various degrees while studying or WITH socializing. All of the furniture is mobile.

The original renovations began in the summer of 2020; these most recent renovations were part of the original plan, but because they did not allow for social distancing, they were placed on hold until the height of the pandemic had passed.

Renovations will continue this summer!

The café courtyard will be transformed into a green space where students can learn, socialize, and gather in nice weather.

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Spring 2022

Register at www.msjacad.org/mountattheshore

A LU M N A E A S S O C I AT I O N

E S T. 1 8 9 5

letter from the Alumnae Board President

As the 2021-2022 school year continues to unfold, it has been a joy to watch the Mount community adapt and rise to new challenges. We, on the Alumnae Board, have also learned to be flexible and lean on each other as we usher in new initiatives.

We’ve capitalized on the accessibility of virtual programming and continued our Speaker Series on topics of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion with experts in this field. We’ve also facilitated the Mount E Series and learned about some of our distinguished alumnae.

Quizzo went virtual and sold out with 45 teams totaling approximately 300 participants. Breakfast with Santa became a socially distanced drive-through event and the reimagined day led to smiles from 75 carloads of families over three timeslots.

The Golden Girls event was the largest in recent history with 140 attendees and class years ranging from 1947-1971. We were even able to host class reunions and welcome 170 Mounties by utilizing the outdoor courtyard and front patio space.

While many events have been through screens and phones, the Investiture of Sister Charlene Diorka as President last fall was an extraordinary in-person celebration. Truly a once-in-a-lifetime event, it was very moving to see the auditorium filled with the students in their blazers and guests in the seats alongside. The speeches, music, and pomp and circumstance somehow celebrated not only the moment, but also the triumphs we’ve made navigating a global pandemic and keeping our close-knit culture and community so sacred. We are truly blessed to have Sister Charlene at the helm.

The Gala the following evening was incredibly special and well attended. I was struck by the range of class years in attendance and also the spirit of generosity for our auction items. The Alumnae Relations, Special Events, and Development teams did a spectacular job with planning and execution of the entire weekend.

In my first address as Alumnae Board President, I included a call-to-action to inspire active alums to encourage fellow classmates to participate alongside you in events or programming. I hope you joined us in this reengagement effort. We need your feedback to help us make the Alumnae Board an ambassador for you – a bridge between your time at the Mount and your contributions as alumnae.

Along with Emily DePaul ’01 (Vice President) and Tara Hank ’12 (Secretary) and two dozen talented and passionate Mounties, the Alumnae Board is here to serve you and support you in your days beyond the Mount.

Spes Messis in Semine, Emily Kohler Marbot ’04

Mentoring Mounties KAREN TRAVERS ’96

DR. PAMELA JOLLY ’90

SANDY HILL KELLY ’04

The Alumnae Office was pleased to offer a special opportunity during the students’ extended winter break. A partnership between the Alumnae department and the Principal’s Office, the pilot program “Mentoring Mounties” took place the week of January 10th with twenty virtual sessions hosted by alums. Think virtual career day! Speakers discussed their college and major choices, graduate study programs, why they chose their profession, and what a day in their life is like, as well as answered questions from students to offer various perspectives on career advice.

Special thanks to our alumnae speakers: Joanna Dearolf Brown ’08, Colleen Bateman DeLeo ’92, Emily DePaul ’01, Catherine Dunn ’08, Meredith Gardner Britton ’02, Tina D’Orazio Gedgard ’94, Meghan Longacre Hall ’07, Dr. Pamela Camille Jolly ’90, Shawn Keane ’04, Sandy Hill Kelly ’04, Angela Lin ’72, Jennifer Lin ’76, Emily Kohler Marbot ’04, Colleen McBride ’15, Jennifer McGlynn ’93, Carolann Larkin McKay ’05, Emily Walker Reynolds ’07, Lisa Roman ’13, Karen Travers ‘96, Christy Dunn Wahl ’06, and Marisa Schaffer Young ’01 If you are interested in participating in future mentoring opportunities, please complete form using the QR code. mount saint joseph academy

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Reunion

22

Spring 2022

On Saturday, September 18, 2021, Reunion for classes ending in 0s, 1s, 5s, and 6s was celebrated at the Mount.

Reunion is typically held in the spring, but the 2020 event was cancelled due to the lockdown in place at the time of the event. To allow the classes who missed their event to celebrate, we combined both celebrations in the fall!

The event was held in Fontbonne and a tent in the courtyard to allow guests to socialize safely. It was fantastic to see alumnae in all phases of life coming together on campus!

Hall of Fame Awards The Rosemary McNally Awards for 2020 and 2021 were awarded at Golden Girls.

2020 recipient: Maureen Cahill ’70 2021 recipient: Elieen McGill Meko ’60

Athletic Hall of Fame Awards (given at Reunion): Colleen Kelly Miltenberg ’00 Katie Madden Kokol ’01 Christina Muller Swanson ’03

mount saint joseph academy

23

One of the most revered Mount traditions for alumnae is the Golden Girls Luncheon, which celebrates alumnae who graduated more than 50 years ago. Alumnae say they look forward to this event, as it not only provides an opportunity to spend the afternoon catching up, but because it celebrates the enduring bond of sisterhood that Mounties carry throughout life.

We were thrilled to return to hosting this event in person this year, after having to go virtual in 2020 due to the pandemic.

On September 17, 2021, alumnae showed up eager to socialize and have fun! We are grateful to the graduates who attended, joined in singing the Alma Mater, and spent the afternoon honoring the legacy of sisterhood.

24

Spring 2022

Legacy Pinning Ceremonies The Mount celebrated Legacy Pinning Ceremonies for Class of 2025 Mounties and their alumnae mothers on November 10 & 11, 2021. Both mornings were a lovely display of a special Mount tradition. We are honored that these alums are continuing the legacy of sisterhood with their daughters.

Alumnae Mothers of the Class of 2025: Sara Pickens Cavallaro ’96, mother of Ella; Jen Scott Chipman ’95, mother of Molly; Megan McLaughlin Hartman ’98, mother of Jamison; Liz Burnett Holmes ’85, mother of Cameron; Nicole Gryn Ksiazek ’90, mother of Vanessa; Katie Pigeon McCarthy ’95, mother of Grace; Corinne Duvall McDaid ’92, mother of Charlotte; Meg Gibbons Miller ’90, mother of Jamie; Kate Miesnik Moyer ’95, mother of Evelyn; Jane Milton Polto ’00, mother of Marykate; Carolyn Smith ’98, mother of Olivia; Jodie King Smith ’90, mother of Morgan; Maria TerminiRomano ’89, mother of Sofia; and Karen Ganster Westmoreland ’95, mother of Katherine. mount saint joseph academy

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Class of 1967

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

1940s Carolyn Taylor Kitchin ’49 has moved to Georgia, near her daughter, Victoria.

1950s Sally Mansell Guilfoyle ’52 says life is good! At age 86, the following (courtesy of her sister, Rosemarie ’46) sums it up: “Yesterday was history, tomorrow is a mystery, today is a gift, that’s why it is called the present.”

Marjorie Todd Shaughnessy ’54 and her husband, Jim, celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary. They are blessed with five married children and 15 grandchildren. She is still teaching Pre-K at St. Joseph’s Parish.

Mary L. Simendinger Lynch ’55 and her husband, Ed, are living in Bucks County after many years away.

Rita Troutman Beirne ’55 says she is getting her life back to normal since the deaths of her husband, Joe, and her daughter, Kristen. She is living in an independent community in Doylestown and enjoying time with family and two great-grandchildren.

Marion Williams Berry ’59 shares that her oldest grandchild is heading to college. The other four grandchildren range from 7th grade to senior in high school. She fills her time with her HOA.

1960s Peg Norrett Hughes ’60 has made two trips to Boston, primarily to visit Cathee Robb Marston ’60. Blessings to all.

26

Spring 2022

Mary Catherine Kelly McCauley ’62 continues to work as the parish nurse for St. Thomas of Villanova. She and her husband, Joe, celebrated 54 years of marriage. They have four married children and one special angel with SMS, and 10 grandchildren.

Joan Burger King ’63 shares that a second granddaughter entered the Mount this fall. Morgan Ann Smith ’25 joined senior cousin Mackenzie King ’22 at the Mount.

Mary Kennedy Keiper ’64 spends the winters in sunny Florida.

Julie Meis Wilson ’65 is enjoying retirement, her seven grandchildren, and one great-granddaughter. She still sees some Mount friends that she has known for many years and cherishes those friendships.

Ten members of the Class of 1967 met at the Blue Bell Inn for an impromptu dinner in September.

Nancy Crean Kaufmann was in town from Florida. Kriszta Horvath VanArsdale, also a Florida resident, traveled to join the group. Ann McCaffrey Ciesielka organized the event. Front row: Kay Dooley Gould, Bernadette Cavanaugh Dugan, Kriszta Horvath VanArsdale, Christine Goffredo, Janie Wesner Nolan. Back row: Ann McCaffrey Ciesielka, Mary Ellen Herzog, Maria Gulotta GioVinco, Nancy Crean Kaufmann, Elaine Taormina Bradley

1970s

Sally Mauchly FitzSimmons ’66 says that her oldest grandchild entered the Mount this year as a member of the Class of 2025.

Mary Jane Wesner Nolen ’67 shares that their son’s wedding was in August in Montana. They welcomed their eighth grandchild in 2021. They winter in Naples, Florida.

Joan “Po” Flanigan ’67 is carrying on the tradition of five grandchildren, and added a boy. She is still painting and selling jewelry. She is a beekeeper in Naples, Florida and welcomes locals to stop by for some honey.

Donna DePaul Bartynski ’70 shares that she, along with Jamie Walters ’97 and Colleen McNamara Middendorf ’08, were the National Champions of Dragon Boat 2021 in Sarasota, Florida.

Kathy McDonald Garvin ’71 was unsure if she would be able to attend Reunion because her husband, Frank, was in the ICU. When she expressed her concerns, the ICU doctor asked her if she was talking about the Mount reunion. The doctor was Keran McCarthy, MD ’01. Kathy asked her if she was going to Reunion that night and Keran responded that she was going to be at the hospital, taking care of Frank, and encouraged Kathy to attend, which Kathy did. This photo was taken the next day at the hospital with her Mount swag.

Angela Lin ’72 works as a medical geneticist at Massachusetts General Hospital, where she cares for people with rare disorders and special needs.

As part of her career in academic medicine, she participates in research and publishes medical articles. Last year, she completed a special project as the senior co-editor of a special issue of a renowned genetics journal.

This Seminar of the American Journal of Medical Genetics is titled “Syndromes and Malformations in Art and Antiquity: New Perspectives on a Familiar Theme.” The journal is less about “hard science” and more reflective of a liberal arts education.

She is sharing so people can enjoy these articles, which include short essays and longer reviews. They can be viewed at: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/ toc/15524876/2021/187/2 Elizabeth Jacobs Barker ’74 is excited to announce she is a first-time grandmother to Ellana Lauren Barker, Class of 2035!

1980s Theresa Talarico Paludi ’81 welcomed her seventh grandchild, Lilliana Grace, born June 20, 2021. She hopes she will be a future Mountie!

S. Patricia Evanick, DC ’81 is working as an administrator for St. John’s University in Jamaica, New York.

friends and fellow 1987 grads Susan Knasiak Raley, Michelle Zacchei Toth, Missy Marr Webb and Sharon Kershner Dunlap reconnected via Zoom calls. It was a highlight during an unusual time!

Christa Zaro ’89 and her family continue to breathe in as much fresh mountain air as they can! Her boys Anthony, 14, and Matteo, 12, are on the Alta All Mountain Ski Team and have surpassed her ski abilities. She is now the student!

1990s Sheila Quinn Hartung ’82 was named Associate Dean for Nursing and Chief Nurse Administrator of Stockton University in Galloway, New Jersey in August 2020. She is enjoying her challenging role in leading the nursing programs (BSN, MSN, DNP) and the beach life in South Jersey.

There are currently six Mounties working together and teaching at Saint Helena School in Blue Bell.

They recently gathered at the home of Colette Giordano Dougherty ’93 for a faculty party. From left: Joanne Loftus Owsiany ’84; Barbara Cawley FitzPatrick ’83; Colette Giordano Dougherty; Denise Britt ’84; Gina Viola Facciolo ’83; Sarah Hansell ’16.

Malia Bracken-Downey ’84 is very happy to share that her daughter Ava will be joining the Class of 2026!

Linda Klein Lynch ’87 has returned to the East Coast after nine years in California. During the pandemic,

In November 2020, Jennifer Dorazio Klein ’90 was named Business Information Security Officer at Comcast in Philadelphia.

She specializes in cybersecurity for the company’s Corporate and Cable Headquarters teams. Jen has been with Comcast for 14 years as of August 2021. She lives in Fort Washington with her husband, Michael, and twins Jacqueline and Harry. In 2019, Jen started a “Mounties of Comcast” social group at Comcast for MSJA alumnae. The group has grown to 11 members who meet to share Mount memories. Members, along with Jen, are: Jeanette Chan Aaron ’85, Katie Bailey Brooks ’05, Juliette Lewis Dobson ’00, Kate Crowe Kloss ’96, Jaclyn Mahan ’09, Caitlin Morrissey ’15, Colleen Keenan Norton ’97, Jennifer Young Rosenau ’07, Cathleen Jordan Rubin ’98, and Julia Sowa ’14.

Megan Kennedy ’92, head coach of the Mount Crew team, received the Joseph F. Brennan Memorial Coach’s Award in May 2021. This lifetime achievement award is given to a rowing coach for outstanding dedication to the development of young rowers. mount saint joseph academy

27

Coleen Dyer Wybranski ’92 accepted a new position as the Associate Registrar at Drexel University.

Kristin Lis ’95 is enjoying working remotely, lawyering via Zoom from Cancun, Key West, Niagara Falls, the Adirondacks, Dewey Beach, Slippery Rock, and many others.

Janel Demeter Stenger ’97 has recently become a Certified Financial Coach through Ramsey Solutions.

2021. Shane joins sister Tess, 2.

Kelley Capetola Morrissey ’06 and her husband, Sean, welcomed their third child, Chase Olivia, on October 31, 2021.

Siblings Miller, 2, and Colby, 1, love the new addition.

Chelsea Clark DeBoer ’07 and husband, Ty, welcomed their third child, Clark, in August. Sisters Margot, 4, and Cecily, 2, love their new sibling.

Katie McCool ’07 is happy to be back at the Mount as director of the musicals. She is pictured here with some of the cast after their successful run of Godspell. Katie is joined by fellow Mountie Amelia Anderson ’08 as the choreographer.

Mitchell’a Lateena Chaney Gilbert ’09 recently launched OYA, a line of health-focused athleisure clothing.

OYA is a femtech company based in Los Angeles that uses technology to address women’s biological needs.

Founded in the Anderson Venture Accelerator at the UCLA Anderson School of Management, OYA holds a provisional patent and trademark for the first OB/GYN-approved brand of leggings. OYA’s clothing features ventilation and moisture-absorbing technology aimed at protecting women’s health. The line is available for purchase at www.wearoya.com.

Joanna Dearolf ’08 married Thomas Brown on May 15, 2021 at Saint Patrick Church in Philadelphia.

Catherine Begley ’08 and Laura Bennett ’21 were bridesmaids.

Megan Scher Saris ’09 shares that after postponing her wedding two times, she finally got married a year after the original date. She married Dr. Dan Saris on May 30th, 2021.

2000s

Amanda Penecale ’02 shares that her painting, “Happy and Free,” is on display in the 92nd Annual Phillips Mill Juried Art Show. She is humbled to be included in this wonderful regional show. She is an art teacher, painter, and photographer.

Melissa Mongi Copestake ’03 and husband Gary welcomed their second child, Gia Grace, on January 27, 2021. Big brother Vincent loves making her laugh and teaching her to crawl.

Laura Schmidley Neufeld ’05 and her husband, Matt, welcomed son Shane Matthew on June 30, 28

Spring 2022

Allie Bono Dinesen ’09 and husband, Alek, welcomed their first child, Bjørn Oliver, on August 14, 2021.

Monica Yantosh Jansa ’08 and her husband Evan welcomed daughter Claire in April 2020.

2010s Dara Bellingham Varrone ’10 and her husband, Mark, welcomed their first child, Vincent Thomas, on July 10, 2021. He weighed 10 pounds, 1 ounce and measured 22 inches. They are enjoying every second as a family of three.

Patricia Hoffman, DO ’13 published a case report in the September 2021 issue of The American Academy of Osteopathy Journal called “Single Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment Session Eliminates Percutaneous Coronary Intervention-Induced Upper Thoracic Pain in Elderly Male.”

Justine Belinsky Witzigman ’13 gave birth to her first child, Mary Louise, on January 12, 2021.

She and her husband, Christopher, are loving every moment with her.

Amy McGovern Kigler ’11 and husband, Matt, welcomed daughter Eden Iris on September 23, 2021.

Meg O’Brien ’12 was taught by Dr. Meg Garvin Heere ’00 while on pediatric rotation at Temple Pediatric Care.

Michelle Handy ’13 is a Licensed Certified Social Worker. She accepted a position as an Early Intervention Social Worker.

Lisa Roman ’13 launched a podcast with CBS Sports called “Attacking Third.” She is the host and producer of the show, contributing to CBS Sports HQ, covering women’s professional soccer in the NWSL and the United States Women’s National Team.

Nora Denton ’18 was selected as a Phillies Ballgirl for the 2021 and 2022 seasons. A senior at Temple University, she enjoys serving as an ambassador for the Phillies both on and off the field. Each year, Ballgirls compete in various charity softball games and tournaments and make over 150 off-field appearances including TV and radio as well as school visits, nursing home visits, golf tournaments and fashion shows. Look for Nora on the field working the foul lines during home games at Citizens Bank Park.

Jennifer Leinheiser ’15 married Bryan Hunt on September 11, 2021.

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 mount saint joseph academy

29



In Memoriam

Our sympathy and prayers are extended to the families of the following alumnae:

The following were collected from June 2, 2021 through January 31, 2022.

Catherine Fisher Baird ’58, mother of Catherine Baird Robinson ’83 and Mary Baird ’84 Patricia Dusch Bollinger ’60 Coleen Cleary Copper ’93 Trish Dooley ’65, sister of Mary Kay Dooley Gould ’67 and cousin of Anne Marie Dooley ’70.

Kathleen Williams Farley ’63, sister of Marion Williams Berry ’59 and Joan Williams Collins ’67.

Ann Bell Lunney ’49, grandmother of Caroline Lunney ’23.

Cecilia Espinosa Martelo ’41 Patricia McIlroy McGettigan ’47 Dolores Roche Purtell ’49 Frances Carolyn Spielhoffer ’67 Robin O’Brien Stubanas ’70, mother of Susana O’Brien ’95, sister of Deirdre O’Brien Burns ’72, daughter of Dr. Joan Byrne O’Brien ’46 (deceased) and niece of Willa Byrne Cericola ’52.

Dorothy Lewis Thorton ’61 Joan Hoffman Weckesser ’48 Gloria DiLullo Bofinger ’95 on the passing of her mother-in-law, Carmella V. Bofinger.

Maureen Mullaney Buck ’59 and Susan Mullaney Caples ’65 on the passing of their brother Thomas Mullaney.

Susan Montgomery Thomas Burke ’78, Vicki Thomas Pohl ’81 and Melinda Thomas ’85 on the passing of their father, Nicholas B. Thomas.

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Spring 2022

Kimberly Komelasky Carter ’95 on the passing of her mother, Patricia A. Komelasky.

Tara Kathleen Hank ’12 on the passing of her grandfather, Francis X. “Frank” Meeks.

Mary “Mimi” Ward Craig ’67 and Virginia Ward Farrell ’74 on the passing of Francis A. Craig, Jr., their husband and brother-in-law respectively.

Joanne Gormley Kane ’79 on the passing of her grandson, Kellan Michael Ford.

Susan Hoffman DeAngelis ’72, Kathy Lafferty Hoffman ’78, Mary Hoffman DeMarco ’07, Kathryn Hoffman ’13, Patricia Hoffman ’13 and Lauren Hoffman ’22 on the passing of Catherine Hoffman, their mother, mother-in-law, and grandmother, respectively.

Darian DiCianno ’12 on the passing of her father, Eric DiCianno.

Mary Lou Donohoe (former faculty) on the passing of her husband, Francis X. Donohoe (former faculty).

Leslie Baker Fogarasi ’84, Stacey Baker Tagliaferri ’86 and Rhonda Baker Lockwood ’98 on the passing of their father, Dr. Ronald J. Baker.

Joanne Caruso Garges ’64 and Susan Garges Silberberg ’98 on the passing of Ronald B. Garges, their husband and father respectively.

Beth Janke Haley ’76, Monica Janke Bresnahan ’77 and Meaghan Bresnahan ’11 on the passing of Albert E. Janke, Jr., Esq., their father and grandfather respectively.

Rose Marie Connor Haney ’77, Colleen Connor Honigman ’78, Nancy M. Connor ’86, Patricia Hogan Sacus ’62 (deceased), Rosemary Hogan Daniels ’77 and Lauren Kelli Haney ’08 on the passing of Thomas J. Connor, their brother, cousin and uncle respectively.

Ellen Bodalski Kaplan ’88 on the passing of her father, Henry J. Bodalski.

Amanda Benincasa Kelly ’08 (former staff) and Emily Benincasa ’15 on the loss of their grandmother, Dolores McCaughan.

Shannon Boyle Koebbe ’91 on the passing of her father, Richard Joseph Boyle, Sr. Margie Kraft ’65, Maureen Kraft Johnston ’67, Eileen Kraft D’Amico ’68, Susan Kraft Burkey ’71, Karen Kraft Hoehn ’75, Colleen Kraft Shields ’84 and Katlyn D’Amico ’07 on the passing of Margaret Kraft, their mother and grandmother respectively.

Amanda Rose Lamphere ’19 and Rose Lamphere (MSJA staff) on the passing of James R. Wickizer, their grandfather and father respectively.

Donna Longcoy Leone ’88 on the passing of her mother, Isabel Longcoy.

Megan Barth Lewis ’01 on the passing of her grandmother, Mary McKenna.

Devin Loome ’23 on the passing of her grandmother, Mary Eileen Loome.

Kathleen Malone ’64 on the passing of her brother, Mark Malone.

Suzanne Coster McCarthy ’88 on the passing of her father Kensil Coster, Jr. Patricia McDermott ’71 on the passing of her brother, George M. McDermott.



In Memoriam

Our sympathy and prayers are extended to the families of the following alumnae:

Carolyn McGuckin-Robinson ’79 on the passing of her father, Joseph M. McGuckin, MD, FACS. Shannon Murphy-Reilly ’88 on the passing of her father, Thomas F. Murphy.

Meaghan McMahon Powers ’95 and Kara McMahon Weaver ’99 on the passing of their father, Joseph James McMahon.

Diza Ranile ’20 and Aubrei Ranile ’24 on the passing of their uncle, Ferdinand Boco.

Elizabeth McKeon Rohrer ’82, Joan Gallagher McKeon ’48 (deceased), Margaret Gorman McKeon ’79 and Caitlin McKeon Murphy ’05 on the passing of Edwin M. McKeon, Sr.,

their father, husband, father-in-law and grandfather respectively.

Mary Beth Marshall Saar ’74 on the passing of her daughter, Stephanie E. Saar.

Shannon Sweeney Sanfilippo ’86 and Suzanne Sweeney ’95 on the passing of their father, Donald J.P. Sweeney, Esq. Meg Magee Seminack ’95 and Katie Magee DiSandro ’98 on the passing of their brother, Joseph M. Magee III. Kathleen Engel Tavolaro ’84 and Maureen Engel Balitsaris ’86 on the passing of their father, John H. Engel.

Barbara Dolaway Michie ’55, Mary Dolaway Donnon ’66 (deceased) and Holly Michie Clark ’81, on the passing of Jeanne M. Dolaway, their mother, grandmother, mother-in-law, sister-inlaw and aunt respectively.

Mary Minnich van Zyverden ’83, Jane Minnich Kluge ’84, Megan Minnich Liney ’90 and Diana Deckert ’89, on the passing of Jane Marie Minnich, their mother and aunt respectively.

Nikki West ’87 on the passing of her father, William West.

Janet Salvo Woods ’76 on the passing of her son, John Benjamin Woods.

Christine Dolaway Tyrrell ’86, Jessica L. Tyrrell ’15, Hailey E. Tyrrell ’19, Suzanne Giuffre Dolaway ’90, Claire Dolaway Montague ’54 (deceased),

– save the date –

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EXPERIENCE SUMMER AT THE MOUNT

THE ARTS Camp Glee June 20-24

ATHLETICS Basketball June 6-9

Culinary June 13-16 June 20-23

Field Hockey June 13-16

STEM Camp Innovate I: STEM Activities and Intro to Robotics June 20-23 Camp Innovate II: Intermediate Robotics June 27-30 Summer Science Madness June 13-16

Lacrosse June 20-23 Running June 20-23 Volleyball June 13-16 June 20-23 Soccer June 27-30 Crew July 11-14 July 18-21 July 25-28

For full schedules and to register, visit msjacad.org/summer