MSJA Winter 2009 Mount Magazine

Celebrating

150 Years of

Academic Excellence

Winter 2009

A Magazine for Alumnae, Parents and Friends of Mount Saint Joseph Academy

A Letter From the President

Dear Friends, Two years ago, when I invited Alums, Alum parents, parents, administration, faculty, students, and friends of the Mount to join the 150th Anniversary Committee, I began with a prayer that reflected the mission of the Sisters of St. Joseph and Mount Saint Joseph Academy. We acknowledged the faithfulness of our God, and we asked for the grace to give voice to our desire to have the same faith and zeal of our early sisters who founded the Mount. We pledged to join in their spirit and to carry their dream of uniting people across years, places, and experiences. On March 6th and 7th, 2009, we did just that. So many came to the Mount and the Crystal Tea Room to be with one another and to celebrate the Mount, its legacy, its mission and its future.

When you read this letter the Gala Weekend will be history, and the Mount will have, once again, left its imprint on all whose lives have been entwined in its heart during these 150 years. As the rest of the year unfolds, new memories will be created, and the yearnings of young hearts to fashion a future full of hope will be strengthened.

If “gratitude is the memory of the heart” (Massieu), then my heart is beating fervently in praise and thanksgiving for all who have contributed to this year of jubilee and to the milestones, the harvests, and the seeds that are yet to be sown. Truly, the soil is fertile, and the harvest is great. The Mount will continue to flourish because of the overwhelming support, belief and pride you have in us and in our mission.

As you read through these pages I hope you will be drawn into the lives and experiences of the students who participate in so many activities that set the Mount apart and which confirm our belief that the educational opportunities offered at the Mount are second to none.

The Mural Arts class, a one-time only event, whose intent and purpose was to tell the history of the Sisters of St. Joseph, marked historical and contemporary milestones in their artwork of which I am particularly proud. Our founding in Le Puy, France, the opening of Mount St. Joseph Academy at the Middleton mansion, and the traditions we honor each year as we remember our roots are depicted in these beautiful murals, as are the events that characterize the everyday life of Mount students and those that give meaning to their lives. I hope you will find a moment to visit us, if you haven’t already seen them. They hang above the lockers in the first and second floor and in the gym.

I hope that you experience the same pride that I did when I read Karleigh Pettit’s ’05 article on what the Mount has done for her. May her words rekindle thoughts of your Mount experience and verify your pride in being a graduate, parent, or friend.

As always, our alums keep us posted on their lives and the events that have occurred since our last publication. Kate Groark Shields ’93 shares with us why she finds it important to give back. I hope that her message resonates with your belief in the value of your education. You are a vital part of our success, and our young women are proud to carry on your legacy.

We have been graced to be able to tell our story and celebrate 150 years of vision, courage, and enduring relationships. Let us go forth in love.

Blessings,

President Mount Saint Joseph Academy

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Table of Contents MSJA Historical Timeline ..................................................................... 4 150th Anniversary . .............................................................................. 6

Winter 2009 The Official Publication of Mount Saint Joseph Academy 120 West Wissahickon Avenue Flourtown, PA 19031 President Sister Kathleen Brabson, SSJ Principal Sister Karen Dietrich, SSJ Development Office Staff

Gala Weekend Events & Sponsors...................................................... 8 Mount Murals...................................................................................... 14 Athletics.............................................................................................. 20 Articles................................................................................................ 21 Development...................................................................................... 28 Alumnae............................................................................................. 30 Gala Weekend Photos........................................................................ 40

Director of Development Jill Gregori Director of Communications Elizabeth Racine

Thank You!

Director of Alumnae Theresa Moyer Annual Fund Coordinator Leigh McFadden Auction Director Lisa Henrich Development Office Secretary Barbara Oldt Phone: 215-233-3177 Fax: 215-233-4734 Website: www.msjacad.org Alumnae Website: www.msjaalum.org Alumnae e-mail: msjaalum@msjacad.org

Photography Cover Photo courtesy of PECO Gala Event Photography by Andrea Loughlin Portraiture 3

Historical Timeline of Mount Saint Joseph Academy

The longest continuously operating Catholic all-girls school in the Delaware Valley celebrates 150 years of educating young women

1858 – Mount Saint Joseph Academy is founded by the Sisters of Saint Joseph in the Middleton Mansion (also known as “Monticello”) on grounds that now are part of Chestnut Hill College. The resident and day school for girls has a total enrollment of 20 students and its curriculum focuses on the Sisters’ belief that “on the education of women depends the future of society.”

1859 – The first graduation of Mount Saint Joseph Academy is held on the front porch of the mansion and is presided by Bishop John Neumann.

1863 – Archbishop James F. Wood provides $1,000 to help the Sisters of Saint Joseph erect an extension to the building to provide more space – as the Academy was housed along with the Motherhouse and the Novitiate.

1895 – The Mount Saint Joseph Academy Alumnae Association was established.

1900 – Due to the growth of the Academy, a new building is commissioned and the cornerstone is laid. When it is nearly finished, the building completely collapses due to a defect in the central rotunda. Undaunted, the Sisters lay a new cornerstone and begin construction again.

1903 – The new Mount Saint Joseph Academy building opens to students on September 29.

1918 – An epidemic of Spanish influenza strikes the Mount campus, closing the school for three weeks. Seventy girls contract the flu. Several Sisters of Saint Joseph die from the virus.

1864 – Uniforms are first introduced at the Mount and are described in a catalog as “mazarine blue, in the winter, and pink delaine, with a white body and black silk basque, in summer.”

1866 – The expanded Academy is dedicated at Commencement Exercises.

1872 – The State of Pennsylvania grants a new charter to the Mount, and authorizes the Sisters to teach “the elementary branches of education, the sciences, arts, ancient & m o d e r n languages and other literary pursuits, in the manner of teaching determined by the proper officers of the C o m m u n i t y.”

The charter also provided for the Sisters to confer c o l l e g e degrees. This charter inspired the commissioning of a new building in 1874 to prepare for growth at the Academy. The building was completed in 1875.

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1919 – The very first Sheaf (the yearbook of Mount Saint Joseph Academy) is published.

1920 – The Pennsylvania State Department of Public Instruction deems Mount Saint Joseph Academy a “First Class High School” upon an inspection.

1928 – The Mount becomes the first Catholic school in the Delaware Valley to be accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools.

1938 – Several foreign language clubs are the Mount are established, such as the Latin Club and the French Club. The Spanish Club follows in 1940.

1940 – Acadram, the Mount’s dramatic club, is founded.

Acadram remains a club at the Mount today.

1943 – The U.S. Treasury Department commends the Mount for its aid to the government in conducting three bond drives to raise money for the Government Relief Fund during World War II.

1997 – A new wing is completed to serve the growing student population at the Mount. The new space includes a library/media center, a full computer/writing laboratory, six new classrooms, a comprehensive guidance area for individual counseling and college exploration, and a faculty center.

1958 – The Mount celebrates its Centenary Year. Mother Sylvester informs the students that a new school will be built

on the Stinson Farm, a ninety-acre tract at the intersection of Stenton and Wissahickon Avenues.

1961 – The new $2.5 million Mount Saint Joseph Academy opens at 120 West Wissahickon Avenue and contains 12 classrooms, an auditorium, library, a student chapel, music rooms, a student infirmary and a modern language laboratory.

The 60-foot carillon, or “The Campanile,” in the front of the school becomes a landmark for the Mount, which can be seen from miles away.

2003 – The Mount invests in the arts by renovating the art and theater area with a large painting and drawing room, a full graphic design laboratory, a ceramics room with kiln and an enlarged theater arts classroom. Mount athletes also get a treat – a new locker room and comprehensive fitness center.

2004 – The Mount dedicates new athletic fields, including a new track field.

2008 – The Mount celebrates her 150th Anniversary of educating young women.

1963 – The first edition of the Mount newspaper, “The Campanile,” is published.

1977 – Cardinal Krol assists with groundbreaking on the Neumann Wing, an extension of the new Mount Saint Joseph Academy that includes art and music rooms.

1982 – The Mount celebrates 125 years of growth with a special liturgy and the dedication of the Alumnae Room.

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150 Anniversary Committee th

Honorary Chairpersons S. Mary Dacey, SSJ Lois Trench-Hines ’60 Dr. Angela Stout ’83 General Committee Members

Commemorative Book Committee

Mary Merz Berko ’48

Mary Merz Berko ’48

S. Kathleen Brabson, SSJ

Kelly Clarke ’05

S. Mary Butler, SSJ

Eugenia Cooper Comerford ’37

S. Karen Dietrich, SSJ

S. Mary Dacey, SSJ

Jennifer L. Dorazio ’90

Jennifer Dorazio ’90*

Margaret Doyle

S. Florence Edward Sullivan, SSJ ’49

Mary Cathlene Driscoll, Esq. ’75

Jill Gregori

Charlene Keller Fullmer ’89

Madeleine Mansell Keehn ’50

Jill Gregori

Erin Mc Clafferty ’96*

Lisa Henrich

Charlene Keller Fullmer ’89*

Barbara Hirst

Theresa Moyer

Maryann Jordan

Elizabeth Racine

Madeleine Mansell Keehn ’50

Kimberly Rothwell ’01

Suzanne Serianni Mayes, ’84

Catherine Groark Shields ’93

Mary Ann Feeley Messmer ’72

Dr. Angela Stout ’83

Theresa Moyer

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Arthur and Gail Pasquarella

Documentary Committee

James and Denise Paul

Don Holdren

James and Nancy Powers

Bernadette Korey Leonard ’73*

Kent and Patti Roman

Jennifer Lin ’76*

Elizabeth Racine

Kelly Mannes ’08

Joyce M. Sadowski

Kelsey Mc Glynn ’09

Catherine Groark Shields ’93

Catherine Mischler ’09

Anne E. Titterton, Esq.’82

Catherine Murphy ’09

Virginia Bendinger Wischhusen ’70

Megan O’Reilly ’09

Megan Shaeffer ’09

*Committee Chair

Corey Stieg ’10

150th Happenings Anniversary 150th Anniversary Marketing Committee Caroline Ayes ’09

Erin McClafferty ’96

Alexandra Bono ’09

Kelsey McGlynn ’09

Julie Capaci ’02

Catherine Mischler ’09

Kristen Cericola ’09

Catherine Murphy ’09

Allison Clark ’09

Meghan O’Reilly ’09

Brianna Devenny ’09

James Paul

Jennifer Dorazio ’90

Jamie Paul ’09

Charlene Keller Fullmer ’89

Julia Pitts ’09

Monica Genuardi ’09

Elizabeth Racine

Jill Gregori

Kimberly Rothwell ’01

Kelly Keane ’04

Kara Sapp ’09

Madeline Mansell Keehn ’50

Catherine Groark Shields ’93*

Adrienne Ragan Kowalski ’87

Shayna Skahan ’09

Lauren Lahann ’09

Meredith LaSalle -Tarantin ’09

Bernadette Korey Leonard ’73

Nicole Trauffer ’09

Alexis Lukach ’09

Lois Trench-Hines ’60

Christine McBride ’09

Rachel Weller ’09 Kimberly Whitehill ’09

School Committee Bonnie Balcer

Patricia Flick

S. Kathleen Brabson, SSJ

Don Holdren

S. Mary Butler, SSJ*

Jonathan Howe

S. Joannie Cassidy, SSJ

Bernadette Korey Leonard ’73

Janet Columbro

S. Eileen Maguire, SSJ

Marge De Stefano

S. Cathie Meighan, SSJ

S. Karen Dietrich, SSJ *

Sandra Moore Danielle Rossi-Makoid

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150th Anniversary

Gala Weekend

TT

A Celebr ation 150 Years in the Making

he 150th weekend Gala Celebration was a huge success with over 1100 people attending the weekend events. A crowd of 550 gathered on Friday night for a pre-gala celebration that included a silent auction and the Inaugural MSJA Athletic Hall of Fame Induction. On Saturday evening over 600 attendees enjoyed a wonderful evening at the Crystal Tea Room. The evening included a luxury silent auction, live auction, 150th Anniversary Program and Alumnae Awards. Congratulations to raffle winner JoAnne Gourlay ’78. Entertainment for the evening was provided by the Comly Brothers and the Sid Miller Band. Many enjoyed the music and danced until after midnight. Photos of the Gala events can be found on the following pages as well as a four-page special section beginning on page 40.

Thank you to our Honorary Chairs, S. Mary Dacey, SSJ, Lois Trench-Hines ’60 and Dr. Angela Stout ’83, our Celebration Weekend Chairs, Barbara and Bill Hirst, Nancy and Jim Powers and Ginny Bendinger Wischhusen ’70 and Bob Wischhusen, our Auction Director, Lisa Henrich and all the committee members who worked many hours preparing for this Gala Weekend. It truly was the weekend of a lifetime!

A special thank you to our

Sponsors

Gala Weekend Sponsor Thomas J. Paul, Inc. - Jim and Denise Paul

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Premier Sponsor FIRSTRUST Bank

Gala Weekend

Platinum

BPG Properties, Ltd.–Art and Gail Pasquarella C-Jay, LLC–Carl and Yunnie Jenkins DePaul General Contractors–Donna DePaul Bartynski ’70 The Genuardi Family–Larry and Maryann Furtek Genuardi ’71 Lois Trench-Hines ’60 and George C. Hines The Murphy Family–Joe and Peggy Murphy The Slawek Family–Eileen Heck Slawek ’48

Gold

Chesheim Dental Associates–Dr. Angel Stout ’83 The Clarke Family–Tim and Kathi Clarke The Cleary Family–Jim and MaryAlice Cleary ’76 Cozen and O’Connor–Suzanne Serianni Mayes ’84 D. M. Sabia Brick & Stone Masonry–Nick and Meg Sabia Deloitte–Steve and Anne Gardner The Driscoll Ragg Family–Cathie Driscoll ’75 and Joe Ragg The Brabson, Durkin and Lyons Family–Dennis and Audrey Durkin The Gavin Family–Jack and Louise Gavin Global Packaging, Inc.–Tony and Eileen Maginnis Eileen Heck Nigro ’82 The Thistle Family–Dan and Chris Thistle The James T. McLaughlin Family–Jim and Jeanne McLaughlin The Brian McLaughlin Family–Brian and Sheila Kropp McLaughlin ’84 MSJA Board of Directors Philadelphia Coca-Cola Bottling Company–Fran and Faith McGorry The Roman Family–Kent and Patti Roman The Stefanowicz Family–Brian and Mary Beth Morrissey Stefanowicz ’84 The Walsh Family–Robyn Walsh and Joseph A. Walsh The Wells Family–Clayton and Phyllis Wells

Silver

Aramark Education Beneficial BK Forensics–Bill and Peg Jeitner Brandon Products Group–Chad and Lauren Sinon The Fabiszewski Family–Bob and Eileen Fabiszewski The McKeon Family–Joan Gallagher McKeon ’48 The Nolan Family–Joe and Bernadette Nolan The Powers Family–Jim and Nancy Powers The Whalen Family–Elizabeth Beitel Whalen ’59

Bronze

The Berko Family–Mary Merz Berko ’48 The Black Family–Pete and Mary Kate Haber Black ’80 Boenning & Scattergood–Lou and Maliz DePaul The Brown Family–Michael and Beth Brown Carr & Duff, Inc.–Bob and Joann Duff The Cavanaugh Family–Dave and Ellen Cavanaugh The Cericola Family–Don and Ellen Rosa-Bian Cericola ’82 Coldwell Banker–David and Karen Caracausa The King Curcillo Family–Paul and Stephanie King Curcillo ’76 The Esperdy Family–Therese Esperdy ’77 The Fenningham Family–John C. Fenningham, Esq. The Ferrier Family–Joe and Donna Nicoletti Ferrier ’76 Fox Rothschild, LLP–Jacqueline M. Carolan The Giordano Family–Nick and Joanne Giordano Grant Thornton, LLP–Jim and Maureen Welsh The Gribb Family–Ted and Sharon Gribb The Henrich Family–Dave and Lisa Henrich The Hirst Family–Bill and Barbara Hirst The Horgan Family–Pete and Mary Kay Horgan The Johnston Family–Bob and Eva Johnston Jones Apparel Group–Joe and Kathy Donnalley Kane, Pugh, Knoell, Troy & Kramer, LLP–Bill and Mary Pugh KLM Consulting–Kirsten Ledwith Morasco ’89 The Kohler Family–Jeff and Maureen Kohler McNeil Consumer Healthcare–Bob and Peg Havard Orthopaedic Surgery & Rehabilitation Associates–Chip and Susan Dearolf Philadelphia Park & Casino–Tony and Helen Ricci Remax–Tony and Peg Rizzo Schubert, Bellwoar, Cahill & Quinn The Sisters of Saint Joseph of Chestnut Hill Springhouse Eye Associates–Dr. Chris and Mary Weidig The Steinmetz Family–John and Mary Pat Steinmetz TD Bank–Greg and Colleen Morgan United Rentals–Roger and Alice Barr Vault Communications, Inc.–Kate Groark Shields ’93 The Whiteside Family–William Whiteside Wachovia Securities–Perry and Carla Abbonizio The Bendinger Wischhusen Family–Bob and Ginny Bendinger Wischhusen ’70 The Zakrzewski Family–Kevin and Chyllene Waters Zakrzewski ’80

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Alumnae Awards MSJA Alumnae Association

Hall of Fame

The purpose of the MSJA Hall of Fame is to honor an Alumna who has exhibited service and loyalty to the Mount, who has made contributions to the Mount and whose efforts have made a difference in her community. The nominee should be a woman who has achieved a level of excellence in her profession or vocation while sharing the values of MSJA and its Alumnae Association, thereby serving as an example for all Alumnae and students of Mount Saint Joseph Academy.

Angela Stout, D.M.D. ’83 Angel has demonstrated an unparalleled commitment to the Mount that distinguishes her among Alumnae. As a two-term President, Angel infused new strength into the Alumnae Association, revitalizing the Board by encouraging dedicated Alumnae across generations to join and to become actively involved, tapping their unique talents to transform the school and the Association. As a pediatric dentist, Angel is a blessing to the Montgomery County community. She serves on the staffs of Temple University, Penn State Abington, Chestnut Hill College, the University of Pittsburgh, and in the Springfield Township School District. She is a professor at Temple University, Case Western Reserve University and the University of Pittsburgh, and has taught at the University of Pennsylvania.

Angel has not only dedicated her professional life to the care of children, but through her generosity of spirit, has raised awareness of children’s health issues in this community and nationwide. Angel serves on various community boards, is a spokesperson for Prevent Abuse and Neglect through Dental Awareness, and has served as a committee member of the Governor’s Community Partnership for Safe Children. Inspired by the mission of the Sisters of Saint Joseph, Angel has continued the legacy of excellence, setting the Mount on a course for the future.

The

Rosemary McNally ’17

Alumnae Award The Rosemary McNally ’17 Alumnae Award is presented annually to an Alumna who has distinguished herself through consistent dedication and outstanding service to Mount Saint Joseph Academy. The recipient will have contributed to the welfare of the school and the Alumnae Association as well as have a record of contributing to the Annual Fund. The President of the Alumnae Association will present one award each year.

This award has been named for Rosemary McNally ’17, a longtime friend and supporter of the Mount, whose commitment, service and dedication to the Academy serve as an example and inspiration to all Alumnae.

Ellen Higley O’Neill ’61 Ellen has been a dedicated Mount Alumna – just as Rosemary was. Ellen has served as Vice President of the Alumnae Association, a Class Representative, and as a member of the Alumnae Board. For many years Ellen could be found at Back to School Night as she chaired this important event. Ellen has worked on the Annual Giving committee and is famous for her “Mount Punch” at our annual Alumnae Induction. She has given many hours, days and years in support of every aspect of the Mount – as an Alumna and as a parent. She is most deserving of this award.

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Inaugural Alumnae

Athletic Hall of Fame Awards

Seated: Mary Ellen Carroll Brown ’48 of North Wales, inducted for Basketball Standing Left to Right: Megan E. O’Neill ’88 of Gilbert, AZ, inducted for Softball, Soccer, and Basketball; Patti Dugan Donoghue ’78 of Scottsdale, AZ, inducted for Basketball, Volleyball, and Field Hockey; Joan Burger King ’63 of Blue Bell, inducted for Field Hockey and Basketball; and S. Anne Reilly Mattson, GNSH ’44 of Yardley, inducted for Hockey, Basketball, and Tennis.

“T

he glory of Saint Joseph’s Mount lies not in buildings great, sparkling rivers, verdant meadows or wooded hill...she prizes first and best her Alumnae who have gone forth with her seal impressed deeper on their hearts than on their diplomas.”

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Inaugural Alumnae

Athletic Hall of Fame Awards Mary Ellen Carroll Brown ’48 In 1976, Mary Ellen Carroll Brown became head basketball coach and led the team to the League Championship Title in 1978. As a student at the Mount, Mary Ellen played varsity basketball, serving as captain in her senior year.

She became a voice in the Athletic Association as a representative, a board member, and in her senior year, as president. Mary Ellen accepted an athletic scholarship to Chestnut Hill College, where she played basketball for four years and was captain senior year. In 1953, she earned her first League Championship title as coach of Little Flower. Mary Ellen taught Social Studies in Philadelphia, and helped develop a core syllabus for the Philadelphia Junior High Social Studies curriculum. She continues to serve on the Mount’s Alumnae Board. She and a team of planners created the CCD program for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. Mary Ellen is a member of the Respect Life Movement and Adult Faith Formation.

By Megan Kummer ‘09

Joan Burger King, ’63

Best put by her four daughters in their nomination letter, “…she epitomizes the spirit of Spes Messis in Semine by planting the enjoyment of sports, and nurturing the efforts of young athletes.” Renowned women’s basketball coach of Villanova University and Chestnut Hill College, Mrs. Joan Burger King, ’63, was a proud member of both the varsity basketball and the varsity field hockey team. She played an undefeated season of basketball her junior year as a top scorer, and then an undefeated season senior year of field hockey. At Chestnut Hill College, she coached women’s basketball and volleyball. Then, at Villanova University, Joan led the Wild Kittens to their best season in the school’s history at that time in 1977, including their first championship win. As a player, coach, and mother, Joan emphasized physical excellence while promoting independence, confidence, perseverance, humility, and sacrifice.

By Amanda Stillwell ‘10

Megan E. O’Neill, ’88

Mount’s youngest inductee this year to the prestigious Athletic Hall of Fame, Megan E. O’Neill, ’88, was a hit in the game of softball. She pitched two no-hitters in high school, was named an "Atlantic Ten Athlete of the Week" in college, and eventually played on a semi-pro team. As a two-year captain of the softball team, Megan set the school record by striking out an outstanding 131 batters in 72 innings and led the girls to a perfect season. She continued her softball career on the collegiate level with a partial scholarship at the University of Rhode Island, and after that as part of a semi-pro team. In her post-academic days, Megan is passing on her dedication, principles, and love for the game by serving as both teacher and coach at the Wilson School in inner-city Phoenix, and has done so for

By Lauren Duda ’10 fifteen years now.

S. Anne Reilly Mattson, g.n.s.h. ’44

S. Anne Reilly Mattson, a five-sport athlete, dominated her competition playing basketball, field hockey, tennis, racquetball, and squash. She founded and was first president of the Catholic Academies League and was once considered the best squash player in the world. Anne began her sports career at the Mount in 1940 and excelled playing basketball, field hockey, and tennis. At Chestnut Hill College, she was captain of all her teams from 19441948. While pursuing a master’s degree, Anne coached field hockey at Melrose, Raven Hill, and Merion Mercy, leading Melrose to win the Catholic Academy League. Anne competed against national teams across the country while playing field hockey for the Germantown Cricket Club, Middle States Team, and the renowned Philadelphia Club and Second team. She played tennis for the Germantown Cricket Club, competing in the Junior Wightman Cup on the historic courts of Forest Hills, NY, home of previous U.S. Opens. Her most prestigious championship came in squash, when she defeated the British team to earn the title, National Champion. In 1983, Anne responded to God's calling and entered the order of the Grey Nuns. This past May, she celebrated her 25th Jubilee.

By Christina Gallagher ’10

Patti Dugan Donoghue ’78

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Captain of the basketball team that claimed the Catholic Academy League Championship title, captain of the field hockey team, volleyball player, and recipient of nine varsity letters, Patti Dugan Donoghue ’78 was the recipient of the Philadelphia Inquirer and Evening Bulletin Scholar Athlete Award and member of the Philadelphia All-Star Basketball Team. She was also recognized by Who’s Who Among American High School Students and the Society of Distinguished American High School Students. Patti played basketball in college, transferring to LaSalle University where she received a scholarship for basketball and track from 1979 to 1982. Patti was named a Scholar Athlete in 1982, and was a Rhodes Scholar nominee and Fulbright Scholar nominee. She is a member of the National Charity League, a mother-daughter philanthropic organization serving local community organizations, and is an Extraordinary Minister of the Eucharist and Youth Group Leader in her parish in Arizona.

By Catherine Zakrzewski ’11

Reunion Photos

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I AM LARGE, I CONTAIN MULTITUDES. -Walt Whitman Returning to the Mount after Christmas break, the Mount Community was greeted by the brilliant colors and engaging images gracing the hallways of the first and second floors. Fifty of them!

The murals were done!

A

fter the grand unveiling on January 4, the artists, Juniors and Seniors who had signed up to take the Mount’s firstsemester Mural Arts Classes, were able to enjoy the fruits of their labors, and now the rest of us can, too! Under the expert direction of Art teacher Ms. Danielle Rossi-Makoid, the murals, depicting scenes from life at the Mount throughout her 150 years, were made more accessible thanks to the touching anecdotes that accompany the scenes that celebrate the Mount’s history, tradition, mission, and life, giving an immediacy to events that have shaped the lives of students since 1858.

Viewing the murals takes on the feel of a treasure hunt, as visitors try to locate the little fun details painted into many of the images. Three examples are below; Sister Clement is Good (this page, top) This panel recalls a beloved story of a student in the early days of the Mount who wanted to prove that her diamond ring was real by writing with it on glass. She wrote “Sister Clement is Good” in a windowpane that is on display today in the heritage room of the Motherhouse at Chestnut Hill. Sister Clement was the third principal of the Mount. (This mural was completed after school by many hands which included Sophomore Muralists, Mural 1, and Mural 2 Students.)

The Prom (this page, bottom mural) The fashions, the customs, and the elegance of the proms of then and now are featured in these two panels. Not to be missed are some special appearances by Barack Obama and

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Sid the trolley driver from this year’s mural arts class trip. Lead Artists: Adrienne Gardner ’09, Erica-Anne Bossman ’09, Jess Giordano ’10, Nicole Gozdan ’10 SSJ Leadership (Opposite page, top) Our president, Sister Kathleen Brabson, and our principal, Sister Karen Dietrich, are pictured in front of the pictures of all former principals of the Mount. The mission of the Sisters of St. Joseph “Unity and Reconciliation” crosses the picture plane.

Different types of lilies, the flower that often appears in art representations of St. Joseph, hang behind Sister Kathleen and the student receiving Communion. Lead Artists: Mary Naydan ’11, Emma Pacheco ’09.

Reflections from the Artists “When I look at one section for too long, I get hung up on the spot and do not realize the way it looks from far away. However, when I step back and look what has been accomplished, I feel like the picture comes together.” – Kiersten Brinkos ‘10 “Mural Arts made me step out of my comfort zone into a whole new place where I learned more about myself as an artist.

When I step back and look at what I had a hand in creating, I feel surprised and accomplished. I feel surprised because I did not know I had it in me to make something this unique, and accomplished because I know that for many years after I graduate high school and college that my legacy will live on.” – Emma Brown ‘09

“I liked collaborating with others because everyone has different strengths. If I could not paint a face, someone else could work on it with me or vice versa. Everyone also has different levels of creativity and styles of painting. Combining our strengths, creativity, and style of painting we can produce a unique mural.“ – Erin Croke ‘09

it has been the most satisfying, the most exciting, and though I have many years of teaching in my future, will always be a favorite.

I am so proud of the murals and the legacy that they illuminate. More than that, I am grateful for the chance to create a legacy with excellent young women. Follow the lace motif weaving through 200 feet of painting and you will know the love of art and the enjoyment of working together to create something of great beauty that flows with each paint stroke.“ -Danielle Rossi-Makoid

Teacher-Artist Statement “Throughout my art career, I have written many artist statements. Often, my comments include a desire for the images in my paintings to engender positive feelings of belonging for the viewer. Never has this desire been met with a more fruitful opportunity as the one unveiled...in the hallways and the gym of the Mount.

The Mural Arts Project at Mount Saint Joseph Academy challenged me to lead fifty girls to see my vision in telling the story of the Mount enough to add their own vision in images and in paint.

We invite you to view the murals if you have not done so already. To read about the rest of the murals, visit the Mount’s website at www. msjacad.org.

This project has been the most challenging experience of my teaching career. More importantly,

Thank you to our Muralists!

MURAL CLASS Victoria Babson* Deirdre Best Erica-Anne Bossman Samantha Brecht Kiersten Brinkos Emma Brown Kristen Cericola* Erin Croke Colleen Delaney* Johanna Duff Alyssa Driscoll Amber Esbensen* Katrina Fellmeth Marissa Every Nicole Fabiszewski Katherine Gallagher Adrienne Gardner*

Jessica Giordano* Nicole Gozdan Margaret Goldschmidt Sabrina Harkins Alexa Iannuzzi Marie Laster Jessica Maenner* Carly Morgan Mary Naydan Emma Pacheco* Kathleen Princivalle Nicole Schneider Shayna Skahan* Carly Smart Melanie Smith Elizabeth Thompson Victoria Wischhusen*

*Students in both Mural I and Mural II

SOPHOMORE MURALISTS Jessica Agostinelli Catherine Baldasano Erica Bonavitacola Meaghan Bresnahan Annie Clarke Stephanie Crilly Erin Dohoney Carly Graham Christina Hamilton Stephanie Henrich Mary Naydan Julia Pacitti Angela Saponaro Lauren Subers Natalie Tacka Elise Taylor Leigh Anne Tiffany Erin Walsh Kiera Wingert

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Don’t Miss Out!

Limited Edition History of

Mount Saint Joseph Academy Commemorative

150 t h Anniversary Book and DVD

Available for purchase online at www.msjacad.org or use the order form below.

The three editors of the MSJA History Book: Erin McClafferty ’96, Jennifer Dorazio ’90 and Charlene Keller Fullmer ’89.

Bernadette Korey Leonard ’73 (photo at left) and Jennifer Lin ’76 (photo at right) spearheaded the DVD project, which involved many students, some of whom are pictured above. In photo at left, left to right: students Catherine Murphy ‘09, Meghan O’Reilly ‘09, and Megan Shaeffer ‘09 pose with Bernadette Leonard. In photo at right, Cory Stieg ’10 enjoys a hug from her mom, Jennifer Lin.

MSJA Commemorative Book or DVD Order Form

_______Books at $25 per book

Name_____________________________________________________

_______DVDs at $10 per DVD

Address___________________________________________________

$______Total

E-mail____________________________________________________ Phone___________________________________________________ Visa__MC___AmEx___Card #________________________________ Exp________ Signature_____________________________________ 16

Cost includes Shipping and handling.

Please send to Development Office Mount Saint Joseph Academy 120 W. Wissahickon Ave. Flourtown, PA 19031

Solid Grounding for these

Gypsy Feet

Lessons from the Mount

The Mount -

by Karleigh Pettit ’05

I

have never liked flying. As organized as I am, I still cannot figure out how to properly pack a suitcase. Traveling is exhausting, and I might even say it is one of my least favorite things to do. Which makes me realize that I could not even begin to calculate the number of hours I have spent traveling over the past four years. Given my genuine dislike of the endeavor that is traveling, I suppose it was not the smartest idea to attend a college that is, on a good day, a six-hour drive from home. The truth of the matter is that, despite the stress and chaos of travel, I love the feeling of arriving at my destination. There is something utterly fulfilling about unloading my car or walking toward the “Baggage Claim” sign in an airport that I cannot help but travel. My dad tells me I have “gypsy feet” just as he did in his younger years.

He believes that I would drop everything and move anywhere in the world if I thought the experience would be worthwhile. My “gypsy feet” have taken me to places I never imagined visiting like Worcester, Massachusetts, and Bayou La Batre, Alabama, domestically to Leon, Spain and Bratislava, Slovak Republic internationally. While every single plane ride made me tense up and every repacking of the suitcase made me wonder how I have accumulated so much stuff in my life, the choices to explore each of those destinations have never been accompanied by regret. I like to think I am adventurous by nature, but I owe a large part of the development of my inquisitive nature to my Alma Mater which planted the seeds of curiosity.

“M

y dad tells me I have ‘Gypsy Feet.’ ”

Since graduating from Mount Saint Joseph Academy, my life has been a series of important choices that are ultimately guided by the

interests and activities I was encouraged to pursue during my days as a Mountie.

Before my “formal education” began, my parents began instilling a set of values and encouraging me to explore and question my surroundings. They chose to send me to a school where I would be truly nurtured in a challenging academic environment. I was sent to Norwood-Fontbonne Academy, run by none other than the Sisters of Saint Joseph, a group of women to whom I will forever credit a large portion of my formation. I struggled when it came time to choose my high school, because it was the first time that I really had a say in the next step on my journey. The secret truth is that I was sure I wanted to attend Merion Mercy Academy. GASP! My mother encouraged me to apply to and visit both Merion and the Mount before I made any sort of decision.

After visiting both, I was still not sure and began the anxious waiting period to hear from each school. I distinctly remember the day that I received my acceptance letter to the Mount and it suddenly became clear to me where I was meant to go.

Choosing to continue my education with the group of women who had carried me to that point simply felt right in my heart. It is funny to look back on that choice now because I cannot imagine where I might be now had I not chosen to attend the Mount. My sense of self and all of my most prominent qualities are directly related to the challenges and memorable experiences I had during my high school years. It was during the years I spent at the Mount when I saw many traits emerge through dedicating unforgettable hours to our stellar Mock Trial team,

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Photo at left: Karleigh (far right) with a group of HC students who studied in Leon, Spain Photo on page 17: A class "travel photo" of Karleigh in London, England Photo below: Karleigh visiting a castle in Segovia, Spain

The Campanile and CSC, but, most of all, through developing relationships with my wonderful teachers and fellow Mounties.

As Sister Mary Dacey, SSJ told us from our very first day, “The Mount is about relationships.” Four years later, I know that after landing in Philadelphia International Airport I have only a matter of hours before I have to be present and accounted for at the Jenkintown Starbucks to meet up with my Mounties and discuss how we still do not have a date to the upcoming formal and how we desperately long to throw on those sweater vests and kilts each morning.

Life after the Mount was a choice that I started to think about during Spring of my junior year. Amidst the typical Mountie workload, AP exams and the chaotic ordeal that is Junior Prom, I attempted to figure out what I wanted from my college experience. Again, just as when making the decision about high school, I thought I knew what I wanted. In addition to a strong academic reputation and opportunities to continue pursuing my interests, I wanted everything that was the opposite of what I considered to be familiar: a large school in a bustling city with thousands of students. Where did I end up? The College of the Holy Cross. For those who might be unfamiliar, Holy Cross is a strictly undergraduate, liberal arts, Jesuit college located in Worcester, Massachusetts. There are roughly 2,800 students and, although Worcester is actually the third largest city in New England, it is not exactly the big city environment of which I had dreamed.

After visiting and interviewing at Holy Cross per the recommendation of several people, including Mount teacher and Holy Cross alum Major Turner, I was sold. I had the “light bulb moment” that made my college choice clear, and I applied Early Decision to Holy Cross. It is only now as a senior in college, analyzing the choice in retrospect, that I realize how much the Mount influenced my decision to attend Holy Cross. I mean, both schools proudly wear the color purple and have mascots that wear capes, so clearly it was fate! Beyond those happy coincidences, however, the values of both the Mount and Holy Cross align perfectly, and I truly believe that is why I was drawn to each one. I continue to be challenged academically and have formed lasting relationships that have shaped me and helped me to grow.

Since my earliest lessons about colors and numbers in grade school, Spanish class has always been a favorite of mine. Granted, block

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scheduling made some Spanish classes seem interminable, and I still have vivid flashbacks to everything from Señora Bucceri drawing boots for irregular verb conjugations to AP Spanish practice tests using tape recorders in that tiny, narrow room on the first floor. Academically, my most rewarding choice at Holy Cross was, without hesitation, the day I decided to be a Spanish major. I entered Holy Cross freshman year as a declared political science major, completely convinced that I wanted to pursue my high school interests in government and politics. While trying to adjust to life as a freshman in college, feeling uncomfortable in my political science classes did not help me feel like I was on the right track. By the end of the year I started to realize that political science might not be right for me after all. Through it all, however, I had been thoroughly enjoying my Spanish courses which reminded me that Spanish had been the subject that I had always loved. What ultimately helped me decide to change my major to Spanish were the words of our class dean from our first day on campus freshman year. He told us to “follow our passion.” Holy Cross is a liberal arts college.

This is a fact that I do not think enough people appreciate for what it signifies about our school. Students are encouraged to study what they love without limiting the definition of their future job or life to their major. I love Spanish, and I finally realized that my passion was more than enough of a reason to declare it as my major. I find it fascinating to seek connections between Spanish and my other classes, and I even find myself making connections back to my Mount roots. As I worked on this article, in fact, I was in the midst of a topic in my literature seminar which focuses on 19th and 20th Century Spanish women writers. Our focus was on Emilia Pardo Bazán, an author who found a way to reconcile her Catholic faith, her feminist ideals and her desire to be an author in a century that claimed such a combination was unthinkable. She truly believed in the education of women and, as any Mountie can tell you, “On the education of women largely depends the future of society.”

The biggest choice I have made to date was, interestingly enough, made without even thinking.

I honestly do not believe I have ever taken a bigger risk than I did when I boarded Continental Flight 63 to Madrid in August 2008. A friend who had studied in Spain the year before sent me a statistic citing that only six percent of American students study abroad for a full year. My response was simple, “What in the world am I doing?” Who picks up their entire life and moves across an ocean for

nearly 10 months? Apparently I do, however, and it has not only been the biggest risk of my liife, but also the most rewarding one so far. Most of the days in Spain were excessively difficult.

As I said, I never thought twice about applying for the full year abroad program Holy Cross offers, but I also imagined that the experience was going to be predominantly fun with occasional work mixed in. I was mistaken, though, because although many study abroad programs could be considered a year off from real life, our program proved to be the largest dose of real life conceivable. Each day we faced obstacles, including: a host family, a foreign language, roughly 20 hours a week of classes and tutorials entirely taught in that foreign language, and a depressing currency exchange rate. We constantly strove to achieve some sort of balance while being thousands of miles across an ocean from everything and everyone familiar to us.

All of those factors were challenging, but collectively converted me into an incredibly different person than I was before I took that risk of a flight. I gained a world perspective while trying to adapt to a new culture and learn a foreign language that will potentially define my future. I interacted with all types of

people and learned to live on a budget without anyone’s aid. It was terrifying to be forced into such a “big kid” role, but had I not risked stepping outside my comfort zone I do not think I would ever have grown as much as I did.

Now, as I enter the home stretch of my senior year in college, I am faced with the choice of what to do with the rest of my life.

Thanks to the wonderful foundation I have been given by the Mount and Holy Cross, I have confidence in knowing that I am well-prepared and completely capable of succeeding in whatever I choose to do. I am currently debating whether I will accept an offer to work next year or whether I will choose to commit myself to a year-long volunteer opportunity. Only time will tell. Of course in the meantime, I continue to live my days in true Mountie style. I continue to overextend myself by participating in too many clubs and essentially trying to do it all. Honestly, is there another way to live? Diet Coke is obviously still a staple and the chant never ceases to arise when three or more of us reunite: “Spes messis in semine.”

Standing Up for Life The late Cardinal Bernardin described the Church’s teaching as a "seamless garment" embracing the totality of life from womb to tomb. The Mount Saint Joseph Respect Life Club rallied a large group, (enough to fill eight tables) to attend the “Stand Up for Life” Dinner held by the Pro Life Union of Southeastern PA at the Sheraton Philadelphia City Center Hotel on November 23, 2008. Dr. Alveda King, niece of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., gave a powerful witness about the reality of abortion. Her moving testimony gave listeners much food for thought.

Respect Life Prayer Service January 22, 2009

God of Mercy, we thank you; God of Life, we celebrate the life you breathed in us.

We pray now together to Mary, the Mother of all Life: O Mary, Mother of the Life Within, all life we entrust to you; The life of every expectant mother and the child within her womb: The life of every human body, the life of every human soul; The life of every newborn child and the life of all those with physical and mental handicaps, the life of those who are terminally ill, the life of those on death row and the life of all grown old.

You held Jesus to your own heart and drew Him so close.

So draw us now in all our needs, O Mother of all the Life.

Amen

On January 22, 2009, the group hosted two Respect Life Prayer Services at school, which provided students an opportunity to spiritually unite in prayer with the more than 300,000 people who participated in the March for Life in Washington, DC.

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Athletics

Congratulations

Fall 2009 All-Stars

Cross Country

Danielle Leporace ’12

Field Hockey

L to R: Shannon Mahoney ’09, Jen Sabia ’09, Julia Reinprecht ’09, and Mary Jo Horgan ’11

Tennis

L to R: Katie Mischler ’09 singles, Chrissy Stefanowicz ’10 and Catherine Baldasano ’11, doubles

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Soccer

Left Mara Yanni ’09, Right Meg Rothwell ’09

Golf

Seated, L to R: Nicole Weinrich ’09, Carson Price ’09 Standing: Samm Arena ’11, and Emily Gimpel ’10

Volleyball

L to R: Michaela McCrudden ’10, Marissa Every ’09, and Patrice Mulhern ’10

Senior Seminar Projects

Senior Seminar

Focus on Service

At the Mount, the popular Women’s Senior Seminar Class provides the opportunity for students to choose a cause to embrace and plan a way to take concrete steps to make a difference in their communities.

Bridget Cardell: Children’s Craniofacial Association The Children’s Craniofacial Association (CCA) helps children with facial deformities cope with the physical, emotional, and financial issues that come along with having one of these disorders. A close family friend whose son has Apert syndrome inspired me to spread awareness about this relatively unknown cause. In order to raise awareness and funds for CCA, I wrapped gifts at Borders in Montgomeryville and passed out pamphlets with more information on facial deformities. Because these disorders often put an unprecedented amount of financial stress on families, I also asked for donations from volunteers, visitors, and shoppers in order to raise money for affected families to pay for the medical treatment needed. Now that I know more about facial deformities and Children’s Craniofacial Association, I believe I will better be able to understand and help my family friend and all others affected by facial deformities.

Christine McBride: Foster Care in the United States Approximately 312,000 children are removed from their homes each year due to abuse or neglect. These children enter the child welfare system and continue on the very long and stressful journey to foster care. Unfortunately, many children still suffer during their time in foster care, and struggle on their own after they are emancipated from the system. I worked with the Northern Home for Children, a safe-haven for children located in Philadelphia. Along with a foster care program, there is also housing for homeless single mothers, and an afterschool program for children. I worked with the after-school children’s program by organizing a Christmas party for the girls’ to decorate picture frames as Christmas presents for their parents. I also worked with the fourth-graders at Immaculate Heart of Mary School to create a mural for the girls’ room at the Northern Home. The IHM community also collected books for the after-school program. Finally, I helped to run the Secret Santa Shop at the IHM Christmas Bazaar in order to raise funds for my project.

Betsy Thompson: Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) Recently, I have become aware of the increasing number of people, especially teens, who are hearing impaired. My goal was to spread awareness about noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL)and to alert people on the importance of prevention. In early November, I held a presentation at the Ambler Theater to spread awareness. From 6 to 9pm, I had over 60 people fill out surveys, relating to symptoms of NIHL and how they develop.

I was very happy with the amount of support I received and I hope to continue to spread awareness and alert today’s society about how technology influences hearing loss. I have learned the importance of education because knowledge is power.

Corin Roman: Philadelphia Shriners Hospital for Children My name is Corin Roman and for my Senior Seminar project I held a Basketball Tournament at Mount Saint Joseph Academy’s Gym on December 13. All of the money that was raised went to Philadelphia Shriners Hospital for Children. Each team consists of five people with a minimum registration fee of $25 per team.

Shriners Hospitals are a network of 22 hospitals across North America that provides excellent, no-cost medical care to children with orthopedic problems, burn injuries, spinal cord injury rehabilitation, and cleft lips and palates. The goal of my project was to raise money. I chose Shriners Hospital because I am passionate about children and their health. They are our future and can change the world. I hope that our efforts here at the Mount affect the lives of children who go to Philadelphia Shriners Hospital.

Erika McCormick: Prevention of Skin Cancer How many times throughout the summer are you reminded to apply your sunscreen? It might seem annoying now, but in the long run protecting your skin could also be saving your life.

My name is Erika McCormick and my project is about the prevention of skin cancer. The number of skin cancer cases in the United States is growing every year, especially in young women. Every year there are one million new cases of skin cancer diagnosed. For my project, I wanted to increase

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awareness about the dangers of skin cancer, the sun, and tanning. I presented a PowerPoint in freshman health classes. This PowerPoint gave the students an introduction to the dangers of skin cancer, the effects of tanning on the body, and some warning signs of skin cancer. Many of the girls were unaware of the dangers of tanning booths and the sun. My hope is that my presentation will help the Freshmen make safe decisions about their skin not only for the rest of their time at the Mount but also long into the future.

Laura Blagrave: The Genocide in Darfur Region of Sudan Though the nation has been in a state of conflict since it gained independence in the mid-twentieth century, the situation escalated into a full-blown genocide in 2003. So far, over 400,000 people have been killed, 2.5 million displaced from their homes, and countless amounts of women have been raped. The Janjaweed, a militia backed by Sudan’s government, has made it their mission to exterminate the non-Arabs from the country.

The crisis is only getting worse with time, and something needs to be done to help these non-Arabs.

For my project, I held an Open-Mic Night at InFusion Coffee and Tea on November 21, 2008. I charged a $5 cover at the door, which is being used to purchase Solar Cookers for the refugees of the genocide. In order to cook the little food they have in the refugee camps, the women need to travel outside of the camps to obtain firewood. Unfortunately, they are usually raped and brutally beaten outside the safety of the camp. These solar cookers will lessen the need for firewood, which will reduce the risk of being murdered. I have also passed around a petition that asks president Barack Obama to remember the promise he made during the election of helping the victims of Darfur.

Lastly, I, along with my friend Anabel, have started a human rights club which began meeting after the new year.

Megan Shaeffer and Sarah Gibbons: Leukemia Leukemia accounts for 33 percent of all cancers in children.

These children struggle not only physically with fighting the disease, but also psychologically and socially as they adapt to living with a life-threatening cancer. As a leukemia survivor, Sarah has worked with organizations that strive to improve the lives of leukemia patients during the course of their struggle.

One such organization is the Make-A-Wish Foundation, which grants the wishes of children with life-threatening diseases like leukemia. The wish can be almost anything- to visit a place, meet a person, or participate in a certain activity or event. For their project, Sarah and Meg will hold a fashion show to raise money to grant a young leukemia patient’s wish, similar to the wish Sarah once made. They hope that the wish they help grant will bring the child strength, hope, and faith to believe in the power of a wish.

Kelsey McGlynn: Domestic and Dating Violence Domestic and dating violence are harsh but serious realities of society. They take different forms, but their goal is always the same; batterers desire to gain control of their victims.

Often people get stuck in these relationships because they have nowhere to turn. Laurel House is an independent nonprofit

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organization that strives to provide a safe haven for abused women and their children, to raise public awareness about domestic violence and to advocate for social change against domestic violence.

Knowledge is power. As a young woman, it is extremely important to be aware of the dangers of intimate violence. On October 29, I held an after-school assembly to educate and raise awareness of this horrible crime. My guest speaker, Laurel House Director of School Programs and Education, Tommie Wilkins, discussed the definitions, warning signs, and escape methods from this horrendous offense. Through my research and activism, I hope to prevent at least one less occurrence of intimate violence.

Katie Mischler: Alzheimer’s Disease Recently, Alzheimer’s Disease has affected my family, and I have learned that every day is a new experience. The goal of my project is to educate the public that though there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, there are easy ways to delay the onset of Alzheimer’s for up to 6 years. Since there is such a high risk (1 in 8 people by the age of 65 and nearly half over the age 85 will get Alzheimer’s), it is important to know how to keep one’s brain healthy and active. On December 2nd, I hosted a seminar called Maintain Your Brain®, an educational program created by the Alzheimer’s Association. Dr. Marilyn Dyson spoke to a large group about how diet, exercise, and activities can help stave off the disease. With Alzheimer’s affecting my family now, I learned so much information that I finally understand what is happening and how I can help in the future.

Kerrie Maron: the Working Poor Since the population of the working poor has increased over the years, I thought it would be appropriate to assist those citizens in need. Considering the majority of the working poor are children, I decided to complete my activist step by establishing a recreational and educational program for children living in local motel-like apartments. Through participation in this program, I hope that the children learn to look at the positive aspects of life rather than the negative aspects contributed by their financial situations. Overall, I have learned the importance of taking the needs of those who are less fortunate into consideration, rather than disregarding them.

Jamie Paul: Fight Against Hunger Each person has the right to have food; the denial of that right is abuse. In the current financial crisis this right is becoming increasingly more difficult to preserve. As a result, for my project I have decided to work towards granting all people the basic right of food they are being denied. I have been working with the Nutritional Development Services of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia to collect food and urge our state representatives to make fighting hunger their top priority. I plan on hosting a food drive at The Mount during the month of April to donate to families with children who receive free or reduced lunches during the school year, but do not receive these benefits once school ends for the summer. In addition I will be participating in the Walk Against Hunger on April 11, 2009 at the Philadelphia