Academy of Notre Dame de Namur Fall Visions 2016

VISIONS ACADEMY OF NOTRE DAME DE NAMUR

FALL 2016

NOTRE DAME FORGES NEW INTERNATIONAL SISTER SCHOOL RELATIONSHIPS

MISSION STATEMENT The Academy of Notre Dame de Namur, a Catholic, independent, college preparatory school, commits itself to the education of young women of grades 6 through 12 for responsible living in a global society.

The Academy, rooted in the faith tradition of the Catholic Church, and the charism of Saint Julie Billiart, provides its students with a challenging academic curriculum within a rich spiritual community in order to: • inspire them to live the prophetic nature of the gospel, with a passion for justice and love for the poor, • enable them to develop the skills and desire necessary for life-long learning, • empower them to be honorable, compassionate leaders.

issue In this

ACADEMY OF NOTRE DAME DE NAMUR

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Center for Global Leadership

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From Texting to Text

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Alumna Profile Sarah Roberts ’09

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Strategic Vision Taking Shape

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Changing Perceptions One Symbol at a Time

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Alumna Profile Madeleine O’Reilly ’84

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New Technology Initiative

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ND Alumna Tackles NFL

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Alumna Profile Katie Kersavage ’06

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Alumnae Class Notes

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Faculty Insight Deborah Gleeson

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Around Notre Dame

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Inspired

by History

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Athletics Fall Sports Wrap Up

A message from the

PRESIDENT

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n 2014, the Academy of Notre Dame de Namur initiated a collaborative, comprehensive strategic planning process that set into motion a bold vision to guide our Academy to 2020 and beyond.

This roadmap, articulated in the document we call OUR TIME to INSPIRE, addresses every aspect of our learning community - academics, facilities, enrollment management, finance, marketing, fundraising, and alumnae engagement.

It is our goal to situate Notre Dame as one of the premiere Catholic academies in the United States. Guided by our Catholic mission and the legacy of the Sisters of Notre Dame, we are committed to providing our students with a state-of-the-art learning community in which they will thrive as happy, self-confident young women who are well prepared to excel at the university level and as leaders in the world ahead of them.

From renovation and restoration of our beautiful 19th century estate and creation of a new Center for Global Leadership, to development of a new Center for STEM Education and implementation of a new middle school laptop initiative, to the introduction of Mandarin as a progressive course of study, Notre Dame is committed to providing our students with a 21st century learning environment and teaching methodologies.

Throughout this issue of VISIONS, you will see the realization of our strategic planning to date, meet our innovative faculty and experience the creativity and achievements of our students and alumnae. I hope you will be energized and inspired by our progress. If you would like to learn more about any of Notre Dame’s initiatives, I invite you to contact me.

Sincerely,

Judith A. Dwyer, Ph.D. President

ADMINISTRATION

Judith A. Dwyer, Ph.D. President

Jacqueline Coccia, MA Principal

VISIONS MAGAZINE

Judy Detwiler, Editor Director of Marketing and Communications

CONTRIBUTORS

DESIGN

Tim Conway Conway Design

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Kim Eife, MS Academic Dean

Office of Advancement

Kriston Jae Bethel

Jennifer Nobles, MA Dean of Students

Alicia Mendocino Jessica H. Turner ’06

Campli Photography Cover Photo Maura Wilson Communications Coordinator

560 Sproul Road, Villanova, PA 19085 www.ndapa.org 610.687.0650

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NEW CENTER FOR Inspiring Compassionate, Global Leaders

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oday’s learners must not only master academic and technological skills to become tomorrow’s leaders. They must possess a deep awareness of the cultural, socioeconomic, religious, and geographical differences that challenge our modern world and the ability to respond to these complexities with understanding and compassion.

Notre Dame’s new Center for Global Leadership realizes the Academy’s Strategic Vision 2015-2020 goal to educate, empower, and inspire women to be compassionate leaders in a global society. The Center is inspired by the legacy of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur, who live and serve on five continents, and will equip Notre Dame students to become informed global citizens.

trips. We are creating global partnerships that will bring students and teachers from around the world to learn and solve problems together.”

Moffat outlined how all aspects of a Notre Dame education will be embedded with the leadership and global competencies today’s world demands.

Programmatic goals for the inaugural year of the Center include: • Creation of a new Global Citizen Scholar Program which will provide accepted ninth-grade students with an intentional academic and extracurricular path that focuses on global themes and issues through course requirements, cross-cultural experiences, educational and community-engagement, international travel and participation in globally focused domestic programs.

Students who complete the four-year program will receive designation as a Global Citizen Scholar on their official transcript.

“If we isolate ourselves, we have only The new Center will be located what we have, we cannot develop in Notre Dame’s iconic culturally; but, if we seek out other Mansion, which has been people, other cultures, other ways of home to the Academy’s World thinking, other religions, we go out of Languages program for every ourselves and start that most beautiful young woman who has attended adventure which is called ‘dialogue.’

Notre Dame since 1944. The This dialogue is what creates peace.”

Academy’s campus master Pope Francis plan calls for a comprehensive restoration of all three floors of the Mansion.

• Development of learning partnerships with sister schools World Religions teacher Nora Moffat was recently appointed around the world to encourage international student Director for the Center for Global Leadership. “There is a collaborations, educational and cultural exchanges, very clear vision for the Center, which represents the rigorous and shared teaching and learning opportunities. Notre and comprehensive work of faculty and administrative Dame currently has partnerships with four schools in leaders over the past two years and direction from Dr. Judith Asia that include China, Japan, Taiwan, and Singapore.

Dwyer, our President,” said Moffat. “The Center is more This partnership will expand to schools in South America, than just an opportunity to offer student travel and exchange Australia, Europe, Africa, and Canada in the future.

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• Curriculum enhancements based on a global learning rubric that will deepen intercultural knowledge and understanding in all departments, increase experiential learning opportunities at Notre Dame and abroad, and expand course offerings and extracurricular options to include more global topics and perspectives.

• Increased opportunities for students to participate in diverse and authentic leadership experiences.

When asked what she hopes Notre Dame students will gain from the new Center for Global Leadership, Moffat replied, “I hope that our students will see the interconnectedness and similarities of our world, as well as accept the differences where they exist. I want them to leave Notre Dame with a curious and open mind, a deeper appreciation of cultural diversity, and a readiness to take their place as leaders in a global society.”

On the cover: Students from CHIJ Saint Nicholas Girls’ School, Singapore, visited Notre Dame in November. The cultural visit was coordinated through the Academy's Center for Global Leadership. Students shared their school experiences, exchanged gifts, toured campus, and enjoyed a traditional Thanksgiving Day meal. Visit the Newsworthy section on Notre Dame's homepage, ndapa.org, for more photos of the visit.

On facing page: The Academy welcomed Candy Lee, Head of the English department at Saint Nicholas Girls' School (center left), and English teacher Tian Cheen Ngee (center right) and initiated plans for future cross-cultural experiences.

NORA MOFFAT APPOINTED Director of the Center for Global Leadership “I’m fascinated by the phenomenon that is world religions – what it drives people to do, how it brings communities together, how it creates wars, how it impacts our world,” said Nora Moffat, Director of the Academy’s Center for Global Leadership.

“Religion is such a good way to understand the driving forces behind cultures and politics. It is so much more than a community gathering in a sacred space.”

ACADEMY OF NOTRE DAME DE NAMUR SISTER SCHOOLS • CHIJ Saint Nicholas Girls’ School Singapore • Notre Dame Seishin Girls’ High School Hiroshima, Japan • Sacred Heart High School for Girls New Taipei City, Taiwan • Zhuhai Girls’ Middle School Guangdong Province, China

MISSION STATEMENT The Center for Global Leadership provides students with authentic learning experiences that educate, empower, and inspire them to be intellectually curious and compassionate leaders prepared to lead and serve the global community.

Moffat’s background and six years’ experience teaching world religions at Notre Dame have prepared her for her new role as Director of the Center for Global Leadership.

Following her graduation from Manhattan College with an undergraduate degree in journalism that included study at Victoria University of Wellington in New Zealand for a minor in world religions, Moffat moved to Thailand to teach English. “Observing Buddhism and their reverent, religious life made me more curious to explore religion and how it affects people’s lives,” said Moffat. Having completed her Master’s degree in Religious Studies at Temple University, she is now continuing those studies as a doctoral candidate at Temple.

“The Center for Global Leadership will help expand our students’ world view in a meaningful way and I am excited to work with our knowledgeable faculty and curious students to create experiences that cultivate an ethical approach to leadership in a world that will require greater global competencies.”

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STUDENT REPRESENTS NOTRE DAME IN TAIWAN Notre Dame student Christine McGinn ’18 was selected as Notre Dame’s ambassador to a student leadership seminar held in Taiwan in August 2016.

The annual program, which gathers high school students from throughout the world, was hosted by the Sacred Heart High School for Girls, one of the Academy’s sister schools, located in New Taipei City, Taiwan. She was accompanied by faculty member Sally Gallagher.

“In August, I had the opportunity to travel abroad to Taiwan for two weeks. To say that I had an amazing experience would be an understatement.

Over the course of my time at the Sacred Heart High School for Girls, I experienced the culture of Taiwan, by learning how to speak the language, the history behind the country, trying and making traditional cuisine, and learning about the arts through music, art and dance. I interacted with students from countries all over the world where we participated in discussions regarding big issues in our world today, such as women’s equality and poverty.

We also went on a field trip to a more southern district in Taiwan, Yilan. It was exquisitely beautiful and in touch with nature; at times, all you could see around you was the color green.

If there is one thing that I have taken away from the culture in Taiwan, Yilan especially, it’s that everyone is so blessed and appreciative for what they have, and that they enjoy each day as a gift.

Traveling to Taiwan has shaped me as a person. I had never traveled so far away from my home without my friends or family. I learned a lot, not only about other people, but about myself and how much I am capable of.

I grew as a person, and became more responsible.

I am so grateful to have had this opportunity, thanks to Notre Dame.

I strongly encourage everyone to take a chance and go out of their comfort zone, because I can guarantee that the reward is so worth it.”

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URUGUAY WOMEN’S FIELD HOCKEY TEAM

at Notre Dame

On September 16, high school field hockey players from The British Schools of Montevideo, Uruguay, faced off against the Academy of Notre Dame de Namur’s Irish. The friendly competition was part of a two-week tour of the Philadelphia area by the visiting women’s team of 31 players and four coaches. The Irish carried the day with a 6-2 win.

Notre Dame greeted the visiting team with a gift exchange and tailgate reception.

Notre Dame’s field hockey team is coached by Adele Williams and Varsity Assistant Coach, Jackie Gerzabek.

“We were extremely honored to host the British School from Montevideo,” said Williams. “Not many girls get the opportunity to play a team from another country, and playing a team with such a passion for the sport was certainly something the girls will never forget. The British School was extremely skillful and put forth a great effort. It was great to see the two teams socialize after the game and these will be long lasting memories for our students.”

STRATEGIC VISION TAKING SHAPE ON NOTRE DAME’S CAMPUS

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nter through Notre Dame’s wrought iron gates and the message is clear – implementation of Notre Dame’s ambitious strategic vision and campus master plan is underway. The Academy’s iconic Mansion is veiled in silver scaffolding from rooftop to portico. Hints of the renovations underway are revealed; beautiful black Vermont slate roofing tiles, carefully fitted by restoration experts, shine in the sunlight. Hand-painted window frames in an elegant, historically accurate color called “Peacock Blue” reflect the beauty of the original Geist estate.

“It is gratifying to see the second phase of our campus master plan begin to take shape,” said Dr. Judith Dwyer, Notre Dame’s president. “As part of our Strategic Vision, the campus master plan attempts to achieve several goals.

One is to restore our beautiful 19th century estate and many of its features, including the Mansion, which is the heart of the campus.”

The Mansion will become the formal “front door” where the Academy will welcome new students, parents, alumnae, and visitors. Joseph B. Callaghan, Inc. Consulting Engineers studied the exterior of the Mansion and John Milner Architects developed the interior design. “Both firms specialize in the restoration of historical treasures such as the Mansion,” said Dwyer.

Restoration of the Mansion will also include interior renovation of all three floors to provide additional academic and administrative space, as well as a home for the Academy’s new Center for Global Leadership.

The Chapel will remain the center of the building.

“A vibrant campus speaks to our Catholic mission and the legacy of the Sisters of Notre Dame,” said Dwyer.

“Within this elegant space, we plan to create several new facilities that reflect 21st century learning and teaching methodologies.”

The Academy’s Board of Trustees envisions implementation of the campus master plan will continue through 2025.

Phase I, completed in 2015, included construction of two synthetic turf fields and a track, renovated space for softball and middle school fields, and renovation of Launfal Fieldhouse. Phase II includes restoration and refurbishment of the Mansion and construction of a Center for STEM Education. Phase III of the plan will involve construction of a liturgical and performing arts center and student center.

“There is a great need for women to participate and lead in the STEM disciplines of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics,” said Dwyer.

“Construction of a state-of-the-art Center for STEM Education will provide our students and faculty with a dynamic learning environment that will inspire and

Restoration of the Mansion exterior is expected to be complete by the end of 2016.

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prepare the next generation of women to become confident, creative innovators.”

In 2016, the Board of Trustees approved the conceptual design of a 30,800 square foot facility that includes nine science laboratories (two chemistry, two biology, two physics, two middle school and one environmental science), three lab prep rooms, a robotics classroom, a technology classroom, and seven math classrooms. The large first floor gathering area (“STEM Gallery”) is a flexible and multipurpose space that allows the community to celebrate current and past student, faculty and alumnae achievements. Spaces for small group collaboration are distributed throughout the corridors on both floors. This facility will also link to the existing Rose Garden, retaining the original stone walls while shaping a new teaching and learning space for environmental studies.

“We are infusing our education with smart classrooms and other features that will enable our students to be prepared technologically to navigate the real world and future career opportunities, where they will need a sophisticated technological literacy,” said Dwyer.

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“Even as we develop technologically sophisticated learning spaces, Notre Dame will remain what generations of young women have cherished most – we will remain a faith community where we celebrate God’s goodness and the goodness within each person,” said Dwyer.

“We have a commitment to the sacraments and to prayer.

We have a commitment to community itself, and a call to service. These qualities have distinguished Notre Dame since 1856 and are at the core of all that we cherish.”

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Campus Master Plan 1 Athletic Fields - Phase I

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2 Launfal Fieldhouse - Phase I

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3 Mansion - Phase II 4 STEM Center - Phase II

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5 Connelly Arts Center 6 Cuvilly Hall

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7 Harron Family Building 8 Student Center - Phase III

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9 Liturgical and Performing

Arts Center - Phase III

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Phase II: Construction of a STEM Center and Restoration of the Mansion

DANCE STUDIO RELOCATES Dance students and members of Notre Dame’s Dance Company are enjoying their new studio, located in the Josephine Connelly Arts Center. The beautifully remodeled studio space includes new dance flooring, abundant mirrors, and natural lighting which will inspire creativity and fully integrate the arts on campus.

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NOTRE DAME STUDENTS NAMED

MAGUIRE SCHOLARS Four ninth grade students were recognized as Maguire Scholars at a reception at St. Joseph’s University on Wednesday, September 28. This is the first year that Notre Dame is partnering with the Maguire Foundation to meet the financial needs of academically talented students who show a demonstrated commitment to community service. The mission of the Maguire Scholars Program is to support and enrich the leaders of tomorrow by providing an opportunity for an excellent education.

More than 650 high school students participate as Maguire Scholars throughout the Philadelphia area. Maguire Scholars continue to receive support from the Foundation providing eligibility requirements are met. Scholars benefit from an ongoing relationship with the Foundation that offers students the opportunity to attend academic summer camps, college application support, and leadership development.

Maguire Scholars are encouraged to dedicate their time and talent to community service.

“Believe what you are and become what you believe.”

James J. Maguire

Congratulations to our first class of Maguire Scholars: Sara McDougall, Jada David, Mikayla Dever, Michelle Zheng

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New 1:1 laptop initiative will be extended to the full school community for the 2017-2018 school year.

NEW TECHNOLOGY INITIATIVE PROVIDES MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS WITH LAPTOPS

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he Academy of Notre Dame de Namur is guided

by Saint Julie Billiart’s belief that educators must teach their students “what they need to know for life.”

As a result, Notre Dame initiated a pilot program for the 2016-2017 academic year to provide faculty and all middle school students with an Apple MacBook Air. Students received their new laptops at orientation meetings in September.

In a survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers, employers were asked to identify the primary characteristics they seek in new hires. “Proficiency with computer software programs,” “technical knowledge related to the job,” and the “ability to create and edit reports” were among the top ten skills employers most want when deciding whom to hire.

According to the Academy’s newly appointed Director of Academic Technologies and faculty member Tyler Gaspich, “The laptop rollout has been extremely successful, both from a student and teacher perspective. Our students are regularly using laptops in their classes, ranging from dynamic e-books in their math classes, to accessing documents and projects in their Google classrooms. Our teachers are excited for the potential the MacBooks provide within their classrooms, and are starting to find newer, more creative ways to introduce concepts and ideas.”

Notre Dame’s Strategic Vision 2015-2020 underscores the Academy’s commitment to preparing students for success in an ever-evolving, information-based and highly technological society.

With that direction, the Academic Technologies Committee conducted a thorough review of Notre Dame’s technologies infrastructure and the use of technologies in instruction.

From the analysis, which included surveys of faculty, students, and other educational institutions, the Committee concluded that instructional time is more productive when faculty and students use the same laptop model and consistent software. By using the same device, teachers and students have more time to focus on critical thinking, collaboration, innovation, and communication.

The ND Techies, shown above with Tyler Gaspich, Director of Academic Technologies, is Notre Dame’s student-led technology support group and will serve as the first line of support when students or faculty experience problems with their new laptops. The group meets to discuss strategies and procedures to respond to help requests and is building a website for the school community to use as a troubleshooting resource.

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FACULTY INSIGHT

DEBORAH GLEESON

by Jessica H. Turner ’06

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eborah Gleeson has been teaching in the Science Department at Notre Dame for 10 years, but more recently she has been excited to bring her engineering background into the classroom. From physics to robotics to programming and coding, she has her hands full teaching the practical application of science to Notre Dame students. Gleeson also coaches the Academy's robotics team, the Sparks. The name references the team's goal to spark an interest for girls to explore STEM fields. Gleeson mentors and leads the Sparks with Anthony DiGregorio, Manager of Information Services.

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“I always had an interest in math and science, and it never crossed my mind not to consider engineering,” says Gleeson.

“I went to an all-girls school, too, and maybe that’s what helped me. I never felt intimidated by the idea of pursuing engineering, but I don’t think that’s really true all the time for all girls.”

Some girls aren’t exposed to different options in STEM, so by providing a robotics team at school, Gleeson feels the students are doing things they never would have had the chance to do before. One of the best things about the team is their ability to draw students from a variety of interests and backgrounds – there is always something for everybody.

“Learning 3-D software is a great avenue for someone who’s artistic. We had an excellent artist as our CAD (ComputerAided Design & Drafting) person because it combined her love of art with her interest in design and engineering processes. Some love the idea of building but have no outlet to do that at home or in a class like woodshop. We have the tools for them to do hands-on assembling.”

The process for building the robots to compete in the FIRST Tech Challenge robotics competitions is a trial-and-error method. It teaches the students that you can learn through failing, by making mistakes and then correcting them. It’s also a process that leads to a fun environment. “We usually listen to Justin Bieber during our meetings,” Gleeson laughs.

“We try to make it relaxed here to let them make mistakes, try different things, fix them, and then try again.”

In the classroom and on the team, Gleeson likes to focus on real-world application of the students’ education, like writing code and then observing how a robot will actually use the program. Most engineering projects involve multidisciplinary groups that come together to create a product, which is what the girls are doing. The team is made of girls from all types of interests, from dedicated STEM enthusiasts to artists to writers to those with a taste for everything. There are many different awards and point systems for them to advance throughout the competition: they need to connect with engineering professionals; show their robotic design work and components; keep a detailed engineering notebook as a log of their activities; and present themselves professionally as a team.

Gleeson feels that the team and exposure to STEM courses encourages them to go into fields where women are underrepresented – not just in engineering, but other avenues as well. It gives them the understanding and the confidence they need. “Most teams are all boys, and the co-ed ones tend not to have any girls in major roles, but in an all-girls team, they are in charge of everything. They are the builders, programmers, outreach, everything. You can’t defer to a guy no matter what the task. Whatever it is, someone has to do it and it has to be a girl. It’s important that they learn and do everything. The only way they get the experience is to do it.”

Photo top left: Students in Gleeson's Robotics and Coding class tested their underwater Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) in the Academy's pool in October. The students designed their ROVS to play the 2016 National Sea Perch Challenge, an annual competition sponsored by the Office of Naval Research.

Photo top right: In June, members of the Sparks Club planned and led a free summer camp to introduce middle school students to STEM topics such as robotics, technology, engineering, and programming.

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INSPIRED BY HISTORY NOTRE DAME STUDENTS SCREEN WINNING DOCUMENTARY Tenth grade students Caroline Voegele and Sophia Skorup are passionate about history, and their research skills and talents as documentary producers were celebrated at a special screening of student-produced films at the Chester County Historical Society on October 7. The two students were first-place winners in the 2016 Delaware and Chester County Regional National History Day Competition for their documentary, “Cracking the Cryptographer,” which traced the life of Alan Turing. The students, ninth-graders at the time of the competition, also earned fifth place for the documentary in state-wide competition against junior and senior high school students.

“We wanted to look at the life of someone who was not well known,” said Caroline. “Very few people recognized Alan Turing’s name, even though he was one of the first people to come up with the primary concept of computing. “Without Alan Turing, we would not have the technology that we consider so important today,” added Sophia.

Sophia Skorup (left) and Caroline Voegele (right) screened their winning documentary on the life of cryptographer Alan Turing at the Chester County Historical Society in October.

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“Not many people we talked to knew about the German Enigma code machine, or Alan Turing’s role in World War II, or his treatment by the British government after the war.

Through research you can learn how people or one person change history,” said Caroline. “It’s important that we understand his whole life, that his ideas were so ahead of his time.” “His thoughts were revolutionary,” added Sophia.

“We wanted to stay away from the movie, “The Imitation Game,” and didn’t watch it until we had finished our documentary. Instead, we read the book based on his life, and did a lot of background research and primary research, with help from Mrs. Abens, our librarian,” said Caroline.

“We were able to read letters that Alan Turing wrote to his brother during his court case and found photos that had been collected by professors who studied his life, or studied the history of computing.”

What’s next for these filmmakers? “We are planning to do a documentary on the life of Polish resistance fighter Witold Pilecki who volunteered to be captured, imprisoned, and ultimately escaped from Auschwitz prison,” said Sophia.

“He is another unknown hero, and it’s important to share his story,” added Caroline.

NOTRE DAME INTRODUCES NEW SCHOLAR DESIGNATION FOR GRADUATES Students in the Class of 2020 will be the first graduates to have the opportunity to participate in two new programs at Notre Dame. The Notre Dame Scholar Programs offer students the opportunity to deepen their academic experience by curating a four-year program of study, involving curricular and extracurricular activities, in order to provide intentional focus on one of two areas:

The Academy

RECOGNIZES DONORS

On October 4, donor recognition plaques for Phase I of the OUR TIME to INSPIRE Campaign were unveiled in a brief ceremony by the new turf fields and track. Notre Dame thanks our very generous donors for their continued support of Notre Dame’s campus master plan. Plaques included recognition of the Schneider Family (Track), Burns Family (Turf Field), Seykora Family (Field Event area), Driscoll Family (Athletic Equipment), and Graeff Family (Scoreboard).

STEM Scholar of Excellence Program provides opportunities for students to demonstrate scholarship in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Students are required to take STEM Scholar approved courses, participate in external STEM competition or independent research, attend STEM related academic lectures and Career Exploration events, and complete a Senior capstone project approved by the STEM Scholar committee.

Molly and Arnie Schneider P’14’16’19 T (center) are joined

by President Judith Dwyer (right) and Athletic Director Peg Desendorf (left) by the Schneider Family Track.

Global Citizen Scholar Program provides opportunities for students to develop global competencies by studying global themes and issues through approved elective courses, seeking cross-cultural experiences, partaking in educational and communityengagement, traveling internationally, and participating in globally-focused domestic programs. Seniors will present a global citizen portfolio for assessment by the Director of the Center for Global Leadership and faculty mentors.

Students who successfully meet all criteria for the Notre Dame Scholar Program will receive a designation on their high school transcript and recognition at graduation.

Pat, Bridget ’10, Helen, and Regina ’08 Burns stand by Burns Field. (Not pictured is Natalie Burns ’16)

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FROM TEXTING TO TEXT NOTRE DAME TEACHER SHARES READING STRATEGIES FOR THE 21ST CENTURY LEARNER

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otre Dame English teacher Kathleen McGuiness is not alone in her observation that students growing up in a world filled with video, Snapchat, and text messaging often struggle to deconstruct the meaning of dense or lengthy texts. A 2016 report by the Academy of Arts and Sciences found that the average score on the SAT verbal test, a measure of students’ linguistic skills, fell to a historic low in 2015. An earlier observation by former College Board President Donald M. Stewart asserted that the decline in SAT scores “has a lot to do with not reading. The ability to read is linked to the ability to process, analyze, and comprehend information.”

To help prepare her middle school students for the textbooks, articles, and non-fiction selections they will encounter in high school and college, McGuiness created a reading system that uses a familiar math acronym, PEMDAS, to give them a systematic approach to reading.

English teacher Kathleen McGuiness (left) presented on the topic, “Reading Strategies for the 21st Century Learner” at the 2016 PAIS Conference. She was joined

by English faculty member Suzanne Wanninger.

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“We can’t change our students’ world, with all their devices and with all that they are encountering,” said McGuiness. “How can we go from texting to text? I wanted to help my students change their approach to reading, because it is not a natural activity for some of them.”

“This approach makes reading more of a discipline that can be developed, improved, and practiced with any level of reading.

I use techniques that teachers traditionally use, but ‘packaged’ in the PEMDAS language students already know. Each letter in the acronym has unique meanings for English,” explained McGuiness. (See description below.)

McGuiness shared her classroom experiences with nearly 50 area educators at the Pennsylvania Independent School Conference in October. “This is a process that can be easily implemented in the classroom and doesn’t take long for students to learn how to use,” said McGuiness, who has been using the PEMDAS approach for two years. “When students are reading any kind of text that may be challenging, they have a reading process and strategy to fall back on if they need it.”

“What’s interesting is that students who have used the PEMDAS method several times now tell me that they may use only one or two parts,” said McGuiness. They don’t necessarily need to use the whole process.” “I like how I can organize my thoughts with PEMDAS, and writing notes in the margins helps me remember new words,” said sixth grader Riya Patel.

Classmate Bridget McTear agrees, “I like highlighting and summarizing. It helps me remember what’s important.”

“I remind my students that it is easy to get used to watching videos or skimming headlines, but as a student, reading substantial texts is inevitable,” said McGuiness. “I want them to have the tools they need to be successful readers.”

The PEMDAS System Prepare before reading by thinking about historical background, author, or other facts Extract key lines and quotes Find Meaning by identifying difficult or unfamiliar words Determine important literary elements Actively read by annotating, highlighting, even drawing pictures in the text Say out loud and write down in your own words what the content says

Students Bridget McTear (left) and Riya Patel (right) use the PEMDAS system developed by Kathleen McGuiness to improve reading comprehension and recall.

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CHANGING PERCEPTIONS ONE SYMBOL AT A TIME

“There is the misconception that Mandarin is a difficult language to learn,” says Notre Dame’s new Mandarin instructor, Changru Tu. “What is different is learning characters, like remembering a picture or a face. There are no conjugations or multiple tenses, and we don’t change sentence structure like other languages.”

Mandarin is now one of four languages sixth grade students explore during a year-long survey of world languages.

“Notre Dame’s vision is to develop girls into global citizens and expand their international perspectives. Exposure to Mandarin and Chinese culture will provide the whole school community with a different cultural background and opportunities to get hands-on knowledge about the language, culture, and geography,” said Tu. “My sixth grade students love studying Mandarin,” said Tu, “They’re very interested. They think it’s cool to type in characters, like coding. They love learning about Chinese culture and Chinese pop music. We have even found a prayer song that uses a familiar melody, but they sing the words in Mandarin.”

When asked why students should study Mandarin, Tu was quick to reply, “This is the language spoken by the largest population in the world. Studying Mandarin gives you more information about China, Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia – the cultures from these different countries were rooted in ancient China. There will also be new opportunities for 16 ACADEMY OF NOTRE DAME DE NAMUR

careers and employment, and knowing Mandarin will give our students an advantage.” Mandarin is now offered as a sequence of study through high school.

Tu is from the Shanxi Province, near Beijing. After receiving her undergraduate degree in English and International Business in China, Tu chose to pursue a career in teaching and moved to the United States to earn her Master’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania in 2015. “Penn offered a course of study on teaching and second-language acquisition from a linguistic perspective, which I found interesting,” said Tu. Beyond the cultural exposure associated with learning Mandarin, Tu advocates the cognitive advantages of learning the language. “Image memorization is good for cognitive development,” said Tu. “Character-based languages such as Mandarin engage both hemispheres of the brain.”

“My hope for the program is to give our whole school a deeper sense of Chinese language and culture and to give my students the opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge.

I’m planning now for a Chinese New Year celebration that will display student work and work from our Chinese Club.”

STEM STUDENTS PRESENT PROJECT PROPOSALS Each year, Notre Dame students are encouraged to prepare and present independent scientific research projects for approval and funding by the Academy. We look forward to seeing the results of these innovative, yearlong research projects.

S

enior Alysa Dinh will spend this academic year developing, testing, and refining a wearable device to help those with hearing loss to experience music.

“I have always been interested in both technology and music. After listening to recordings that my music teacher sent to the class, I was inspired to transform the notes into colors that would appear on a screen, and change depending on the pitch, how long the notes were held, and their intensity. This led to the realization of the device’s potential, particularly to those with hearing loss.

I modified the idea several times, until it evolved into a wearable device that would easily allow deaf people to experience a concert in a more interactive and immersive way. Color and vibration will be used to convey emotion.

This experiment will also help me expand my knowledge of programming and computer science in a comprehensive, practical way, and help better prepare me for college, where I plan to major in computer science.”

Junior Bridgid Chandler’s STEM research project will include construction of a photobioreactor to research how nitrogen deprivation affects the yield of oil from algae in the production of biofuels.

“The depletion of the earth’s fossil fuels has caused a surge in the search for alternative, renewable energy sources.

Algal biofuels show promise as an economically and environmentally efficient renewable energy resource for the future. I will test the effects of limiting nitrogen in the growth process of Chlorella vulgaris to produce higher yields of oil.

Because effective ways to grow algae have been optimized, there is now a shift in research toward producing the highest possible yields of oil from the organisms using the minimum amount of materials, thus decreasing production costs. This decrease in cost would be helpful in making the large scale production of algal biofuels a reality.

This experiment will expand my scientific skills and research experience in biofuels, chemistry, and biology as well as benefitting the growing industry of renewable energy.”

VISIONS FALL 2016 17

NOTRE DAME ALUMNA TACKLES NFL Jeanne Marie Laskas ’76

Author of the Best Seller Concussion

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I

n November 2015, a book was released that turned the spotlight on an alarming epidemic that was quietly swept under the carpet by the National Football League. The book, Concussion, was based on an article entitled “Game Brain” that was published in GQ in 2009. Concussion went on to become a New York Times Best Seller and was adapted for the big screen into the Golden-Globe nominated movie by the same name starring Will Smith. The author of the ground-breaking article and subsequent book was Notre Dame alumna Jeanne Marie Laskas ’76.

Laskas traces the beginnings of her prolific career all the way back to Notre Dame English teacher Sister Mary Hyde, SND, and her weekly composition books. “Writing in those composition books was one of the things that I really loved about school,” she recalls. The strong influence of teacher Mrs. Vera Suppa also left a lasting impression on Laskas.

“She just loved what she did and was passionate about opera.

It was an inspiration to see someone who loved life so much.”

After attending Villanova University for a year, Laskas transferred to Saint Joseph’s University and explored several majors within the fine arts. An internship with Philadelphia Magazine was the spark that lit the flame. “That’s when I realized that I could make a life out of this. I decided to be a writer.” Laskas found her parents to be tremendously supportive, encouraging her to “do the thing you love.”

Having completed no formal coursework in journalism, her next stop was the University of Pittsburgh, where she pursued an MFA in an intense writing program.

Publication in national magazines followed. Laskas wrote a syndicated weekly column for The Washington Post Magazine for fourteen years. The personal essays were, to quote Laskas, “like writing the weekly compositions for Sister Mary Hyde.” Over the course of twenty years she has written for

The New Yorker, The New York Times Magazine, GQ, Esquire, Smithsonian Magazine, O: The Oprah Magazine, and many others. Aside from pieces published in magazines, Laskas has authored seven books, including the award-winning Hidden America, which takes an in-depth look at the unseen people and jobs that make this country work.

In 2002, after the publication of her second book, the University of Pittsburgh invited her back as a professor. In between actively writing for The New York Times Magazine and The New Yorker and serving as a correspondent for GQ, Laskas currently serves as the Director of The Writing Program, and founding director of The Center for Creativity.

To budding writers, Laskas offers simple words of advice, “Do the thing you love. Don’t hold back, write every day, read everything that you love. Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do it. Just keep writing.”

Jeanne Marie Laskas ’76 will participate in a Q & A with students this spring as part of Notre Dame’s Career Exploration Program.

VISIONS FALL 2016 19

AROUND

NOTRE DAME

Student Council and Campus Ministry Leaders Recognized Student Council and Campus Ministry team leaders were installed during a Community Prayer ceremony in September. During the ceremony, students reflected on the call to leadership by their Catholic faith and Notre Dame’s Hallmarks and lit candles as a sign of their commitment to service.

Students Experience Opera in Philadelphia and Boston Notre Dame seniors attended a performance of Puccini’s opera, Turandot, in September. The afternoon performance, presented by Opera Philadelphia, gave students the opportunity to experience opera and connect storylines and themes from the past with the present.

Later in the month, members of the ND Opera Club, including club

president Julia Scanlon ’17, traveled to Boston to see the Boston Lyric Opera’s record-breaking production of Bizet’s Carmen. While in Cambridge, the group toured area colleges, including Boston College, where they enjoyed a reunion with ND alumna Jessica Czachor ’16, pictured at right with club members Casey Phelan and Julia Walton.

National Merit Finalists Recognized In 2015, over 1.6 million students took the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test, and entered the National Merit Scholarship Program, a nationwide competition for recognition and awards. Commended Students place among the top five percent of the 1.6 million students who sat for the test. We are proud to recognize seniors Grace Leasure (far right) and Julia Walton (far left) as National Merit Commended Students. National Merit Semifinalists are the highest scorers in each of the 50 states and represent less than one percent of each state’s high school seniors. These students have the opportunity to continue in the competition to attain finalist standing or even the Merit Scholar title.

We are proud that seniors Julia Goldschmidt (center right) and Merry Gu (center left) have been named National Merit Semifinalists.

20 ACADEMY OF NOTRE DAME DE NAMUR

Senior Wins Honors at Chestnut Hill College Senior Quinn Norris (left) placed second among 13 competing high school students at the fifth annual Harry Potter Conference hosted by Chestnut Hill College. The non-profit, academic interdisciplinary conference offers a forum for scholarly presentations arising out of J.K. Rowling’s literature. Norris received a $12,000 scholarship to Chestnut Hill College for her presentation, “Dumbledore: An Examination of Ethics.”

National Honor Society Members Inducted The school community gathered to induct the newest members of the NHS on September 21. Inclusion in the Academy of Notre Dame de Namur Chapter of the National Honor Society is offered to junior and senior students who have a cumulative grade point average of 3.90 for four semesters (juniors) or six semesters (seniors).

To be included in NHS, students must also demonstrate leadership, scholarship, service and character, be active in at least three activities or sports, and live the spirit of the Honor Code.

High School Theatre Presents Beauty and the Beast The story of Belle and her beast came to Notre Dame’s stage in October with Notre Dame’s high school production of Beauty and the Beast. The cast performed a free show for local middle school students and three public performances on October 21 and 22. More than 30 cast and 15 backstage crew members brought this popular Disney musical to life.

Students Provide Meals for Women of Hope On Sunday, October 16, Notre Dame students joined the Women of Hope at 4th and Arch Streets in Philadelphia, for a home cooked meatloaf Sunday dinner. Once a month, Notre Dame students sign up to prepare side dishes for a faculty-provided main course, then serve dinner to the 24 women at the residence, which is run by the Sisters of Mercy.

VISIONS FALL 2016 21

Notre Dame Continues Tradition with Spirit Day Cheers, chants, face paint, and fun marked Notre Dame’s annual October Spirit Day. The day was filled with friendly games and concluded with skit competitions.

Congratulations to this year’s winners, the Junior (green) class!

New Digital Learning Opportunities for Students The Academy is partnering with the Online School for Girls to expand learning opportunities for high school students. The program connects girls from independent schools across the country to collaborate and learn in a personalized, small-group digital learning environment.

a way that is not limited by time or location,” said Notre Dame’s principal, Jacqueline Coccia. “This year, we are offering AP Computer Science and AP Spanish Literature for our students who have completed prerequisite coursework in their areas of study and who are ready for additional academic challenges.”

“Offering classes in partnership with the Online School for Girls broadens our students’ educational options in

The classes are an extension of Notre Dame’s curriculum and support the Academy’s strategic plan goals to prepare

students to succeed in an ever-evolving, informationbased, and highly technological society.

“We are exploring additional opportunities to provide new academic options for our students,” said Coccia.

Living Our Hallmarks The Academy is guided by the legacy of service of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur and our Hallmarks. Hallmark Four states: “We commit ourselves to community service.” This fall, middle school students participated in community outreach projects that included working in urban gardens and assisting with horse therapy programs.

Notre Dame is on Smugmug!

Visit ndapa.smugmug.com or follow the link from Notre Dame’s home page to view photo albums from our annual Mother-Daughter picnic, Reunion, Parent Social, Father-Daughter Communion Breakfast, Spirit Day and more events as we add them.

22 ACADEMY OF NOTRE DAME DE NAMUR

2016 GOLF CLASSIC RAISES $129,000 1

2

A record number of golfers took to the links at Applebrook Golf Club on September 27 for the Academy’s annual Golf Classic. The event was co-chaired by Notre Dame parents Michael and Lisa Irvine P’17 and Pat and Kristen Traynor P’18. Proceeds from the event support the Academy.

Student golfers from Notre Dame’s golf team attended to support and thank participants. The Academy of Notre Dame de Namur is grateful to our planning committee and golfers for making this event such a success.

SAVE THE DATE The 2017 Notre Dame Golf Classic will be held at Applebrook on Tuesday, September 26.

3

Photo Captions 1. Michael and Lisa Irvine P’17, Pat and Kristen Traynor P’18 2. Lori McStravick P’16 ’19, Michelle Frank P’22, Colleen Tegler P’20, Karen Willis P’08,’13,’18 3. Andrew Gerardi P’20 ’23, Charles Haub P’19, Dave Gorelick P’20, Bernie Halfpenny P’20

Notre Dame Women Recognized as Power Women 2016 On October 20, President Judith Dwyer, along with alumna Christine Doherty Kondra ’96 (left) Chef/Co-Owner of Cornerstone Cheese & Charcuterie and Notre Dame Parent Rose Ann Scanlon (right) Facilitator, Society of Professional Women were recognized

by Main Line Today as Power Women 2016. Notre Dame senior Catherine Oliver was recognized as a “future power woman,” at the awards luncheon and had the honor of presenting gifts to the 24 recipients.

VISIONS FALL 2016 23

ATHLETICS AT NOTRE DAME Varsity Volleyball and Field Hockey Teams Take PAISAA and Inter Ac Titles Congratulations to Notre Dame’s High School Varsity Volleyball and Field Hockey teams for winning Inter Ac League and PAISAA (Pennsylvania Independent Schools Athletic Association) Championship titles.

Both teams finished their seasons with undefeated league records. The Volleyball team finished with an overall record of 17-4 and a league record of 8-0. The Field Hockey team finished with an overall record of 18-2-1 and a league record of 10-0.

Varsity Golf and Track and Field Teams Win Spring 2016 Inter Ac Notre Dame’s Varsity Golf and Track and Field teams ended their winning 2016 spring sports season with Inter Ac League Champion titles. This was the eighth consecutive Inter Ac title for the the Varsity Golf team and their seventh consecutive undefeated season. The Track and Field Team celebrated their third Inter Ac title in the last six years.

Notre Dame Celebrates Student-Athletes at Annual Banquet The Volleyball team defeated Germantown Academy in the PAISAA Championship Match. This marks the fourth consecutive PAISAA title for the team and the fourth Inter Ac title in the last five years.

The Field Hockey team defeated Episcopal Academy in the PAISAA Championship game. This was the team’s third title win in the last five years. It was also the fourth Inter Ac title in the last six years.

Five senior athletes were recognized for their athletic accomplishments, leadership, sportsmanship, or determination. Award winners were Caroline Allen, Sophia Recchilungo, Madison Chermol, Ashley Haas, and Natalie Burns.

Sports Spotlight

Varsity Golf InterAc Champions (8th Consecutive)

The HS Varsity Tennis team fared well at the Inter Ac Championships which were held at Episcopal Academy. Grace Leasure and Natalie Hughes won the 1st doubles title, Sarah Crinnion and Makenzie Irvine finished in third at 2nd doubles and McKenna Bramlage finished in fourth at 1st singles.

The High School Varsity Cross Country team finished in third place in the Inter Ac and PAISAA Championship Meets, and the JV team won both the Inter Ac and PAISAA meets.

Varsity Track and Field InterAc Champions

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More than 275 Notre Dame athletes were honored at the 2015-2016 High School Sports Banquet held on May 31. Each high school team recognized two athletes with Coaches Awards and Most Improved Player Awards for the academic year.

Allison Hendrick Students Sign National Letter Named Main Line Athlete of the Week of Intent Allison Hendrick, a senior middle blocker and captain of Notre Dame’s Volleyball team, was named All-Main Line Athlete of the Week in October.

Her coach, Mike Sheridan, praised Allison saying, “Allison has displayed tremendous leadership both in her play and her encouragement of her teammates, along with her energy and spirit in matches and practices.”

On November 9, eight of 13 student athletes signed their National Letter of Intent or committed to playing their sport in college. Congratulations to Sarah Boles (Field Hockey) - Fairfield University; Meg Gentile (Swimming) - College of the Holy Cross; Makenzie Irvine (Lacrosse) - Boston University; Quinn Maguire (Field Hockey) - St. Joseph’s University; Claire Nappi (Lacrosse) - University of North Carolina; Cami Osborne (Field Hockey) - Georgetown University; Bridget Pyott (Golf) - West Chester University and Olivia Whytosek (Rowing) - Marist College

Seniors Chosen for All Star Team Mary Kate Neff (left) and Quinn Maguire (center) were chosen to play in the 2016 Philadelphia Field Hockey Senior All Star game. Coach Adele Williams was chosen to be one of the coaches of the Freedom team.

FALL INTER AC LEAGUE HONORS CROSS COUNTRY 2ND TEAM Sydney Stribrny

PAISAA ALL STATE 2ND TEAM Katie Lennon Sydney Stribrny

FIELD HOCKEY 1ST TEAM Tina D'Anjolell Colleen Kearney Quinn Maguire Mary Kate Neff Cami Osborne Katie Liebeskind

FIELD HOCKEY 2ND TEAM Sarah Jane Quigley

SOCCER 2ND TEAM

Crew Update Notre Dame's rowing program has undergone some exciting changes.

Patrick Rufo is the new Head Coach and the team is now rowing out of the Hines Rowing Center in Conshohocken. The location offers better logistics and flexibility for practice. The team has been hard at work with a new conditioning program, including workouts in the Academy’s fitness center and indoor tank workouts at Malvern Prep. The team will kick off the new season by christening a new boat, purchased last spring.

Claire Nappi

TENNIS 1ST TEAM McKenna Bramlage Grace Leasure Natalie Hughes Caroline Mackay

2016 INTER AC LEAGUE SPORTSMANSHIP AWARD Grace Leasure

VOLLEYBALL 1ST TEAM Elise Butler Emma Butler Allison Hendrick

VOLLEYBALL 2ND TEAM Molly Kieft

VISIONS FALL 2016 25

ALUMNA PROFILE Sarah Roberts ’09

Cybersecurity Consultant at Microsoft

T

he next time you read about a large-scale computer virus plaguing operating systems across the globe, you may be comforted to know that cybersecurity consultants such as Sarah Roberts ’09 are on the case.

How did Roberts break into the traditionally male-dominated world of cybersecurity? She cites the influence of her sisters, Notre Dame graduates Katie Roberts ’03 and Emily Roberts ’06, both of whom also attended The Pennsylvania State University, studied Spanish and traveled abroad. One of her sisters pursued Information Sciences and Technology, and, according to Roberts, “It was an interesting time when technology was changing, the iPhone was just coming out.

This was just different from anything I had known.”

While still a student at Penn State, she had summer internships at a local pharma company, an aerospace company, and a government defense agency. Those experiences led to a focus on companies encouraging creativity in a cutting-edge tech environment. Roberts attended a career fair on campus and visited the Microsoft table. Impressed by what seemed to be a diverse and inclusive company, with people and a culture passionate for technology, by September of her senior year Roberts had accepted a position as an IT consultant with Microsoft. In July 2013 she graduated as a double major in Security and Risk Analysis and Spanish with minors in Information Sciences and Technology.

After working for a time on Microsoft’s security and government-related projects in Washington, D.C., Roberts

26 ACADEMY OF NOTRE DAME DE NAMUR

became more intrigued by cybersecurity and connected with Microsoft’s cyber division. Her team focuses on protecting the government and business around the globe.

Much of the crucial work that is done by cybersecurity teams is rarely recognized until down the road, if at all. “A lot of things you read about in the headlines may seem far-fetched, but they are true. We do a lot of interesting work behind the scenes, primarily detecting hacks. We’re the front line of security.” And while Microsoft may call to mind operating systems and software, according to Roberts, “We’re more creative than that; we’re not just looking out for the latest technological breakthrough, we’re trying to stay ahead of the next big thing.”

Roberts credits her Notre Dame education for helping her succeed in a historically male-dominated field. “Notre Dame made me feel confident in my abilities and comfortable speaking my mind. It prepared me for tomorrow.” She also stresses the importance of younger generations of women getting involved in technology and encourages current students to take advantage of new STEM offerings. “There are so many opportunities in the information sciences and so few young women pursuing them. Take on that challenge!”

FULL STEAM AHEAD

Notre Dame offers science day for area middle school girls

O

n November 12, Notre Dame welcomed more than 50 middle school students for the Academy’s second annual “Full STEAM Ahead” science day. The free community outreach introduces girls to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through fun activities and hands-on experimentation.

“We want to inspire girls to pursue careers in STEM, and studies have shown that introducing them to the sciences, when their minds are wide open to new opportunities, can make a difference,” said Kim Eife, Academic Dean and organizer of the event.

Notre Dame National Honor Society students, robotics club members, and 11 faculty members guided participants through activities that included programming a robot, exploring mass and acceleration by building an edible car, integrating the arts and mathematics through dance, and creating “elephant toothpaste” through chemical reactions.

Physics students from Drexel University also met with participants to discuss the University’s IceCube Neutrino Observatory located at the South Pole. IceCube is the world’s largest neutrino detector. “Last year, senior Madi Brennan worked with Drexel and IceCube completing independent research and building a model of IceCube,” said Eife. “We are excited to continue our partnership with Drexel this year.”

VISIONS FALL 2016 27

ALUMNA PROFILE Madeleine O’Reilly ’84

SAP VP Finance, Head of North America Commercial Finance

A

s a young girl, Madeleine O’Reilly ’84 was drawn to numbers. “Aside from the analysis, I liked solving a problem and getting an answer at the end of the day.” Serving as SAP’s VP of Finance and Head of North America Commercial Finance, O’Reilly’s expertise has sent her career on an upward trajectory at the world’s third largest independent software manufacturer.

O’Reilly’s interest in numbers evolved during her studies at Notre Dame. A tax class in senior year was especially formative and opened her eyes to accounting as a potential career path. “Notre Dame was a great environment for learning,” she recalls. “My time there taught me to be strong and make the right decisions. The honor system helped me mature and develop my own ethical code to live and work by.”

“Notre Dame was a great environment for learning. My time there taught me to be strong and make the right decisions. The honor system helped me mature and develop my own ethical code to live and work by.”

After graduating from Villanova University with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting, O’Reilly pursued work with companies such as GE Capital and JP Morgan, where she served for eight years as a VP of Finance.

O’Reilly will tell you that networking has played a critical role in her career progression. “Every meeting with someone is a potential connection.

I’ve kept in touch with

28 ACADEMY OF NOTRE DAME DE NAMUR

people I have worked with in the past because building that network is so important.” In 2009, a dinner with a friend directed her to consider a position with SAP, where she was hired as the Director of Accounting. From there O’Reilly joined SAP’s US Revenue Recognition team in 2014 before becoming the Head of North America Revenue Recognition in February 2015. In August of this year, O’Reilly moved into her current position as VP Finance, Head of North America Commercial Finance, where she manages the North America Commercial Deal Support Team, consisting of 73 employees on six different teams.

What advice does she have for today’s Notre Dame students looking to take their place in business? “Build a network, and take every opportunity to explore all of the opportunities out there. Many roles at SAP would not be considered traditional finance jobs, so don’t feel locked into something by having an accounting degree. We look for a core set of skills, but you can get that in various ways.

Remember, the degree doesn’t necessarily determine your career path.”

REUNION WEEKEND 2016

Notre Dame welcomed more than 200 alumnae and family members to campus Friday, May 6 and Saturday, May 7 for Reunion Weekend 2016.

Highlights of the weekend included a lunch with student leaders and a student/faculty panel discussion, a meeting between the Class of 1966 and their sixth grade pen pals, the Sunflower Run (despite the rain, more than 50 runners participated in the 5K), and the special reunion luncheon and cocktail reception celebrating the 1s and 6s.

During the Alumnae Mass held in the Chapel of the Mansion, Dr. Judith Dwyer and the entire school and alumnae community honored retirees Sister Nancy Bonshock, SND and Mia Finley Wesner ’67 P’91’08 for their years of service to Notre Dame.

Members of the Class of 1966 celebrate their 50th Reunion.

1

SUNFLOWER RUN AND FAMILY FUN DAY

2

Despite the rainy weather, the Sunflower Run and Family Fun Day held on Saturday, May 7, was a great success. More than 50 runners participated in the 5K race held on campus. Katy Conicella ’02, a yoga instructor from Bulldog Yoga, led the runners in a pre-race yoga stretch to ensure a great 5K. Food trucks lined the parking lot of the Mansion, so hungry runners and spectators could have a bite to eat.

Photo Captions 1. Members of the class of 2001 gather outside the Mansion 2. Marguerite Stathes ’11, Kristen McNeill ’11 and Megan Muir ’11 3. Penelope Riley ’18, Mary Mulholland ’10, Meghan McCullogh ’10 and faculty member Leah Barcusky at the Sunflower Run

3

Visit Notre Dame’s Smugmug account ndapa.smugmug.com for more Reunion photos!

SAVE THE DATE! 2017 Reunion and Sunflower Run May 5-6 Reunion Celebrating 2s and 7s May 6 Sunflower Run and Family Fun Day VISIONS FALL 2016 29

ALUMNA PROFILE Katie Kersavage ’06

Presidential Management Fellow, Office of the Ombudsman

G

rowing up in the Middle East, alumna Katie Kersavage ’06 has always held a unique perspective on international relations. When she was fourteen, Katie’s family relocated to Malvern, Pennsylvania, and enrolled her at the Academy of Notre Dame. She found her interest in international affairs growing through influential courses such as Sister Nancy Bonshock’s Comparative Politics (COGO) class. “That really solidified for me that I wanted to work internationally on behalf of the U.S. Government.”

After graduation, Kersavage studied international affairs at George Washington University and earned a master’s degree in international conflict resolution from The London School of Economics and Political Science. In August of 2013, she returned to the Washington, D.C. area and took a position with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce doing economic and trade development work with the Middle East. Two years later, Kersavage began working with the State Department through the two-year Presidential Management Fellowship.

The purpose of the Fellowship, she explains is to, “Prepare you for a leadership role in the government. You have the opportunity to go on different details in order to expose you to various bureaus and agencies.”

As a Presidential Management Fellow, Kersavage spent six months with the Office of Commercial and Business Affairs and is currently with the Office of the Ombudsman. In her current role, Kersavage uses her background in international conflict resolution to help mediate disputes between governmental employees at the State Department. Most recently, her work has taken

30 ACADEMY OF NOTRE DAME DE NAMUR

her to a U.S. Embassy in South America to help resolve conflicts there. Kersavage’s next detail will find her with the Bureau of Population, Refugees and Migration beginning in November.

A career in civil service is the expected outcome of the Fellowship, something that Kersavage looks forward to with enthusiasm. “I really enjoy working for the government and feel like we do make an impact. I’ve been fortunate to have many great role models who are women, and while we are making progress, there is a definite need for more women in government leadership positions.”

Alumnae PRESIDENT’S COUNCIL CONTINUES TO EXPAND

Katie Kersavage ’06, Ginny Gordon Barry ’06, Domenica Giuffrida ’06 (left to right) participated in a presentation of the Academy’s campus master plan at the DC regional event in September.

Since her arrival on campus, Dr. Judith Dwyer has been committed to expanding opportunities for alumnae engagement in the life of the Academy. Building upon the existing structure of a President’s Advisory Council in Villanova, she first added a regional chapter in New York City, followed by a chapter in the Washington, DC Metro region. The DC chapter held its second annual meeting on September 29, followed by a lively DC Regional Alumnae Reception in the evening. Continuing that momentum, the Academy added a fourth regional President’s Advisory Council in Boston. The inaugural meeting was held on November 10.

The President’s Advisory Councils draw on Notre Dame alumnae representing diverse interests, professions and experiences. At each annual meeting, the Councils meet for two hour sessions during which Dr. Dwyer presents a brief State of the Academy, followed by discussions designed to seek alumnae input on key topics. Most recently, these sessions have focused on the strategic vision and campus master plan. Notre Dame alumnae have provided valuable feedback on the plan, offered recommendations on ways alumnae can contribute to the development of the Center for Global Leadership and the Academy’s evolving Center for STEM Education, and made recommendations to increase student-alumnae mentoring relationships.

Nicole Williams ’11, Katie Crowley Kempf ’02, Stefanie Dolan Spinelli ’02, Giuliana R. Marcucci ’10, and Camila Guerra-Garcia ’10 (left to right) enjoyed an evening of fellowship at the Academy’s spring 2016 regional event in New York City.

Boston alumnae Kelly Hanna ’04, Audrey Battista ’99, Lizanne Backe Barone ’79 and Madeleine Finkenaur ’13 (left to right) gethered for Notre Dame’s first Boston regional event on November 10.

VISIONS FALL 2016 31

Alumnae

1950-81

CLASS NOTES 1950-59

1960-69

1974

1955

1960

President Dwyer visited with alumnae Marianne McGarvey McBrearty ’55, Pat Moran Dolan ’59, Maria Pastuszek Cardle ’77 and Roberta McKenna Griffin ’63 at a Naples, Florida reception for Notre Dame alumnae and Malvern Prep alumni on February 4, 2016.

Rev. Marie Swayze ’60 served as Chaplain of the St. James School in Philadelphia for two years. The St. James School is a faith-based Philadelphia middle school in the Episcopal tradition, committed to educating traditionally under-resourced students in a nurturing environment.

Rev. Swayze is now a first-time grandmother: Audra Isla Swayze was born on January 14, 2016, to her younger son, Andrew, and his wife, Katie. They all reside in Wakefield, MA.

Deb Reiner Shaw ’74 took up riding at age 50 and bought her first Harley Davidson shortly thereafter. She and her husband, Rick, have taken an annual fall motorcycle vacation since then, and have been all over the country on their bikes. In 2016, they traveled to the Adirondack Mountains in New York.

1965

On January 16, 2016, Loretta Salvadore Hartnett ’55 was awarded the first Members Honors Award by the Philadelphia Chapter of the American Guild of Organists for more than 50 years of devotion to the Organ and Sacred Music.

After 30 years, Jennifer Lovatt Abbate ’65 retired from teaching at St. Philomena School in June 2015.

She had the privilege of being in Philadelphia with classmate Carol Wortman ’65 in September 2015 to volunteer for Pope Francis’s visit!

1970-79 1970 Helen Kane ’69 and her sister, Marti Kane Rodgers ’70, with Ann Hughes ’54 at the Alumnae Association's first gathering of the year on September 19, which included Mass and a special presentation by Dr. Judith Dwyer.

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1980-89 1981 Shannon Mailey Reilly ’89, Barb Phelan Riley ’90, and Grace Kennedy Bule ’81 attended the Special Presentation for Alumnae on September 19, 2016.

1982-96 1982

1989

Karen Backe O’Brien ’82 is currently the Learning Services Coordinator for St. Peter’s School in Philadelphia. She is looking forward to spending time with the Class of 1982 during Reunion Weekend 2017, which is being held on May 5, 2017 and May 6, 2017. Karen’s son, Seamus, is a freshman at Fairfield University where he is a member of the Varsity Crew Team.

Rachel Gain Anderson ’89 and her husband, John, recently moved to Schwenksville, PA with their four children.

1988

1990-99 1994 Preeya Noronha Pinto ’94 and her husband, Ashok, welcomed Lucy Aileen Pinto on December 11, 2015.

She joins big sister Seraphina.

Cindy DePiano McKernan ’88 and Tara Theune Davis ’88 attended the alumnae regional event in Stone Harbor, NJ on July 27, 2016. Cindy and Tara had the opportunity to meet Dr. Judith Dwyer and Paige LeGrand, Director of Advancement, and share their experiences and memories of Notre Dame.

Nicole Fenlon McKeown ’95 has been teaching part time at Eastern University for 11 years. Starting in Fall 2016, she will be going to Temple University to start her doctorate in Education with a concentration in Special Education. Nicole lives in Havertown, PA, with her husband, Paul, and two children, Sienna (9) and John (7).

1996 Carey Kulp Cheyney ’96 and her husband, Curtis, welcomed Elizabeth Norlynne Cheyney on December 8, 2015.

Share your news with us!

Send announcements to Marielle DuBovec Mazda ’06, mmazda@ndapa.org.

Alumnae Association President Kim Tierney Pegg ’88 and Vice President Kaitlin Morris McCartan ’01 greeted guests and shared news for the upcoming year at the July 27 alumnae regional event in Stone Harbor.

1995 Sharon Rufus Dion ’95 and her husband, Chris, welcomed Tate William Dion on July 14, 2016. He joins big brothers Gray (7) and Matthew (2½).

VISIONS FALL 2016 33

Alumnae

1996-99

CLASS NOTES

Patrice Hayden Meagher ’97 was featured in New York Real Estate Journal’s 2016 Women in Real Estate for her work in commercial real estate at CBRE, Inc. in June 2016.

Christine Doherty Kondra ’96 was recently named one of Main Line Today’s Power Women of 2016.

Christine is Chef/Co-owner of Cornerstone Cheese & Charcuterie in Wayne, PA, and co-founder of The Bee Foundation with her sister, Erin Doherty Kreszl ’99.

Colleen O’Reilly Schlecht ’97 welcomed Hudson Reilly Schlecht on August 4, 2015. Twin big brothers Ryan and Crosby are excited to welcome Hudson!

1999 Meg Kane ’99 has been awarded the Benemerenti Medal by Pope Francis for her service to the 2015 World Meeting of Families.

Meg Murray Seaman ’99 and her husband, Dennis, welcomed Matthew Charles Seaman on July 12, 2016.

He joins big brother Patrick and big sister Anya.

1997 Shannon Patton Huffman ’97 works on an outpatient basis as a social worker and continues to coach figure skating. She and her family recently moved to Downingtown, PA.

1998 Jamie Varallo Flannery ’98 and her husband, Ryan, welcomed Brynn Kristen Flannery on April 12, 2016, in San Diego, CA. She joins big brother Declan.

Anne Schoemaker Vazquez ’99 and her husband, Dave, welcomed daughter Regan on November 10, 2015.

Carrie Denny Whitcraft ’99 married Michael James Whitcraft on December 31, 2015.

34 ACADEMY OF NOTRE DAME DE NAMUR

2000-03 2000-09 2000 Angela Guarino ’00 married Colin Rodgers on September 10, 2016.

Alumnae in attendance were Maria Aspan ’00, Felicia Leicht ’00, Erin Hagerty ’00, Karen Guarino ’09, Juliana Guarino ’13, Gina Mazzulla ’87 and Lisa Mazzulla Masciulli ’90. Former Notre Dame faculty in attendance were Sr. Nancy Bonshock, JoAnne Alexander ’57, Dolores Sajeski, Aurora López, Anna Budiwsky and Maria Gioia Sordi.

Current faculty who attended were Angela's mother, Rosemary Guarino, Kate Drown, Clare Ziff, José Napier and Suzanne Wanninger.

Nicole Matteo Scoma ’00 is currently working as a medical malpractice attorney at Villari, Brandes & Giannone, P.C., in Conshohocken, PA. She and her husband, Peter, have four children, Salvatore (4), Nina (3), Giuliana (9 months) and Alessandra (9 months).

2001

Maya Noronha ’01, an associate attorney at BakerHostetler LLP, served as part of the outside counsel team to presidential candidate John Kasich. Governor Kasich and his wife, Karen, thanked the campaign team at BakerHostetler’s offices in Cleveland, Ohio, during the Republican National Convention in July 2016.

Amy Land ’01 married Sean Coleman on October 18, 2014, in Philadelphia at the Basillica Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul. They welcomed their first baby, John Marshall, on January 23, 2016. They currently reside in Rittenhouse Square.

Diana Mirabello ’01 and her husband, David Heiman, welcomed Xander Sheldon Heiman on June 22, 2016.

Danielle Dunn O’Connor ’01 and her husband, Paul, welcomed Patrick James O’Connor II on December 21, 2015.

2002

Dr. Judith Dwyer and Ms. Sally Gallagher met Bertina Hu ’00 during a special visit to Taipei in June 2016.

Bertina has been living in Taipei and working as a missionary at Every Nation Church Taipei.

Sarah McNair Lane ’02 graduated from Harvard Medical School in May 2015. She is currently doing her firstyear residency at Walter Reed Army Medical Center.

Jennifer Gaulin Tillett ’02 and her husband, Drew, welcomed Elizabeth (Ellie) Amanda Tillett on April 15, 2016.

Ellie joins big brother, Benjamin (2).

2003 Stephanie Jones ’03 welcomed Gabrielle Christine Jones-Warner on January 25, 2016.

VISIONS FALL 2016 35

Alumnae

2003-05

CLASS NOTES Christine Gerland Parsons ’03 and her husband, Mike, welcomed Sarah Ann Parsons on August 16, 2016. Big sister Mary is loving her new role!

Rachel Pall Roettger ’03 and her husband, Vince, welcomed Cassie Roettger on February 23, 2016.

Patty Candiotti Elias ’04 and her husband, Roger, welcomed Connor Elias on September 2, 2016.

Megan Sweeney ’03 is currently working as the Communications Director at the Republican Party of Pennsylvania, serving as the point person for media relations for Republican candidates.

Recently, she was named one of BillyPenn.com’s Who’s Next in Politics.

2004

Katherine Corkhill ’04 married Brandon Barthelmeh on July 1, 2016. Notre Dame alumnae in the wedding party were Emily Corkhill ’07, Cristi Farrell ’04, Allie Moppert Corabi ’04, Maral Avetian Sheruda ’04 and Ehren Vigliotti Goren ’04. Other alumnae in attendance were her mother, Helen Huggler Corkhill ’75, Patty Candiotti Elias ’04, Lindsay Zimmaro Falco ’04, Veronica McMahon ’04, Melissa Bemer ’04, Courtney Collins ’04, Molly Kelly Joyce ‘04, Bianca Wilson Tamagnini ’04, Meghan Acker O’Brien ’04, Alex Burtoft Gilroy ’04, Kristy Cloetingh ’08, Karen McCawley ’75, Lynn DeMento Saggiomo ’75, and Martina Rominger Galli ’75.

36 ACADEMY OF NOTRE DAME DE NAMUR

Lindsay Gosnell ’04 has been working for AmeriQuest Business Services as their Senior Marketing Operations Manager. She was recently elected to the Board of Directors for The Saturday Club, a non-profit organization that is focused on philanthropy and community outreach throughout the Greater Philadelphia region. Lindsay married Jordan Green, Esq. on September 17, 2016. Tory Gosnell ’06 was maid of honor and Erica Gosnell ’10 was a bridesmaid.

Courtney Collins ’04, Jennifer Harvey ’04, Julie Hutton ’04, Alex Burtoft Gilroy ’04 and Melissa Bemer ’04 attended the wedding.

Tricia Hyland Humpton ’04 and her husband, Ryan, welcomed Caroline Elizabeth Humpton on May 27, 2016.

Maureen Daly Moore ’04 and her husband, Dave, welcomed Connor Michael Moore on April 9, 2016.

2005 Deirdre Moran ’05 married Paul Barnes on September 24, 2016. Marie O’Grady ’05 was maid of honor and Kieran Neeson Hyland ’05 , September Rinnier ’05 , Patti Behler ’05 were bridesmaids.

2005-06 Jocelyn Turney ’05 married Tyler Bradshaw on January 2, 2016.

Angela Giannantonio Wojes ’05 and her husband, Ryan, welcomed Joseph Daniel Wojes on September 22, 2016.

Grandmother Emily Giannantonio ’76 is thrilled!

2006

Amanda Zajdel Perwien ’05 and her husband, Benjamin, welcomed Frederick Arnold Perwien on July 8, 2016.

Shannon Connolly ’05 recently accepted the position of Director of Account Management for MetLife Expatriate Benefits, where she has served as a Regional Sales Manager since 2012. In her new role, Shannon is responsible for leading the team that manages MetLife’s book of business for globally mobile employees.

Juliette Dallas-Feeney ’06 was recently named to the DreamWakers Advisory Council for her work with social media at Birchbox. The DreamWakers Advisory Council is an informal body of diverse and dynamic professionals who offer their unique talent and skills in support of DreamWakers’ mission.

Members of the Advisory Council are selected to serve as resources for the organization as it works to expand its services to an increasing number of high-need students nationwide. In addition to playing a substantive advisory role, members of the Advisory Council also serve as DreamWakers ambassadors within their industries and communities.

Kathryn Rudnay ’05 married Andrew Tursi on September 24, 2016. Alumnae in attendance included Kathryn’s mother D’Arcy Foster Rudnay ’73, Lis Rudnay Moss ’03 (bridesmaid), Ann Mayoue Catts ’73, Colleen Mitchell ’05 (bridesmaid), Kira Toner ’05, Morgan Toner ’07, Jocelyn Turney Bradshaw ’05, Meghan Boova Gillispie ’03, Karen Boyle ’03, Mary Vecchione Rynarzweksi ’03, Chrissy Boova Stach ’00 and Nancy Somers Dougherty ’73.

Danielle Fraider ’05 married Will Furey on June 24, 2016. Denise Fraider Compton ’02 and Katie Boova ’06 were members of the bridal party.

VISIONS FALL 2016 37

Alumnae

2006-08

CLASS NOTES Nicole Bazik ’06 married John Danise on May 21, 2016, at St. Jane Frances de Chantal Catholic Church in Bethesda, MD. Aly Malick ’06 was maid of honor and Abby Fisher ’06 and Alex Tancredi ‘06 were bridesmaids.

Emily Thompson ’06 married Isaac Windle on June 10, 2016. Members of the bridal party included Jessica Thompson Podgajny ’99, Kara Crawford ’06, Catherine Elliot ’06, Courtney Mullen ’06, Katie Boova ’06, Elizabeth Emper ’06, Lisa Luttrell ’06, Kristin Donohoe ’06 and Stephanie Hayden ’06.

Lauren Killeen Boyle ’07 and her husband, Kevin, welcomed Kayden Patrick Boyle on November 25, 2015.

He will be a triple citizen, American, Irish, and Australian!

Molly McDowell ’06 married Marty Gallagher on April 30, 2016. Kate Frick ’06 was in attendance.

2008 2007 Kerry Gibson ’07 married Stephen Hanebury Jr. on April 23, 2016, in Clearwater Beach, FL. Members of her bridal party included Amy Gibson Wenger ’94, Katie Gibson ’03, Kate Palmarella ’07, Devyn DiBona ’07, and Morgan Toner ’07.

Lauren Willis ’08 married Nick Cardone on June 25, 2016. Emma Willis ’13, Katie Willis ’18, Kara Schultheis Brown ’08 and Kaitlin Smith ’08 were members of the bridal party.

AJ Fox Ott ’06 and her husband, Andrew, welcomed son Reid Alexander Ott on June 6, 2016.

Erin Putsch ’07 married Luke Heverly on June 3, 2016 at St. Mary Magdalen.

Moira Putsch ’14 was maid of honor and Kelly Corcoran ’09 was a bridesmaid.

Other alumnae in attendance were Erin’s mother, Judy Joyce Putsch ’75, and classmates Kim Vaughan ’07, Tara Meissner Flexon ’07, Morgan Toner ’07, Kate Palmarella ’07, Kerry Gibson Hanebury ’07 and Devyn DiBona ’07.

38 ACADEMY OF NOTRE DAME DE NAMUR

Gabriela Benner ’08 married Michael Dokas on June 4, 2016. Maggie Madocks ’08, Cassie Cummings ’08, Jillian Rafferty ’08 and Anna Dokas ’07 were members of the bridal party.

2008-13 Tara Connolly Durkot ’08 was promoted to Captain in the U.S. Army.

2009

2010's

Alexandra Kelleher ’09 married Charles DeLuca on April 22, 2016.

Alumnae in the bridal party were Caroline Hayes ’09, Kimberly Curtis ’09, and Jillian Powers DeLuca ’09.

2013

Karen Guarino ’09 married Greg Epps on June 25, 2016. Karen’s sister, Juliana Guarino ’13, was a member of the bridal party.

Kristen Santerian ’08 was recently presented the Heart of BlackRock Award, which recognizes a handful of employees who exemplify the firm’s principles and best embody leadership.

There were more than 700 nominations for the award.

DeAnna Supplee ’08 performed in the adaptation of “The Trojan Women” at The Flea Theater in New York City.

She starred as Hecuba.

Katherine Carroll ’13 was based in Berlin this summer for a fellowship program at Cornell University.

Cornell selects 14 Junior engineers to explore the world of startups and entrepreneurship. As a fellow, Katherine was required to define her personal statement and find a startup that aligns with her passions and statement. Her personal statement was about female empowerment through education and conversation.

Since graduating from Notre Dame, Shannon McCabe ’13 joined Phi Sigma Sigma sorority and serves as Secretary on the executive board and also as the Philanthropy chair.

Shannon is the Vice President of the Order of Omega, which is a Greek leadership honor society. She has been asked to join Alpha Delta Mu, which is a social work honor society.

Notre Dame has given her the skills she needs to succeed and taught her to become the leader she is today.

Maura McMahon ’09 was the top overall female finisher in the Travis Manion Memorial 5K Race on Sunday, September 11, in Norristown, PA. Nearly 400 runners and walkers participated in the race. As a student at Notre Dame, Maura ran track and cross country.

In May of 2016, Madeline Smedley ’13 graduated first in her class at the University of Richmond. This fall, she moved to Washington, D.C., to attend The George Washington University Law School on a full merit scholarship.

Christen Boas Hayes ’09 recently came back from Oakland, CA, where she worked with an organization that advocates for the rights of refugees (Asylum Access). Previously, she was in Tel Aviv, Israel, with an organization for LGBT refugees. She plans to go into the field of refugee rights upon graduating from Swarthmore College in the spring.

VISIONS FALL 2016 39

Alumnae

2013-16

CLASS NOTES 2015 Carolyn Riegel ’15 had the opportunity this summer to intern with GE Aviation and helped streamline assembly lines that carried engines for Black Hawk and Apache helicopters among other projects.. Currently, she is an industrial engineering and Schreyer Scholar at Penn State.

In Memoriam 1945

1984

Marie Theresé Cummins ’45, February 1, 2016.

Marie Hamilton, mother of Gabrielle Hamilton ’81 and Elizabeth Hamilton Crowley ’84, April 30, 2016.

1952 Marianne “Dosie” Sweeney Fitzpatrick ’52, January 14, 2016.

1957 Gregory A. McAdams, husband of Anne Stevenson McAdams ‘57, January 28, 2016.

1962

2016 Leanne Purcell ’16 received a scholarship dedicated to college-bound organ transplant recipients at Jessie’s Day - Give the Gift of Scholarship on September 25, 2016.

Lucretia Baum ’62, December 14, 2015.

Philip Dwyer, January 4, 2016. Philip was the husband of Eileen Gallagher Dwyer ’62 and father of Kathleen Dwyer McFillin ’87 and Patricia Dwyer Melcher ’94.

1965

Joseph Zimmerman, father of Allison Zimmerman Dudley ’02, February 19, 2016.

2005 Lily Bell, daughter of Brooke Brady Bell ’05 and Chris Bell, June 18, 2016.

2009 Alice Guarino, mother of Karen Guarino ’09 and Juliana Guarino ’13, aunt of Angela Guarino ’00, June 29, 2016.

2013

1967

John N. Del Collo, Esquire, father of Kerri Del Collo ’13, April 16, 2016.

1970

40 ACADEMY OF NOTRE DAME DE NAMUR

William R. Albertus, husband of Jennifer Ruch Albertus ’02, April 17, 2016.

Christine A. Zerby ’65, January 14, 2016.

Frances Myers Grauch ’58, July 4, 2015. She was the sister of Christine Myers Malley ’67.

Former field hockey teammates Maggie Fitzgerald ’14 (Northwestern #7) Emily Lambert ’16 (Colgate #16) and Kirsten Mansfield ’15 (Northwestern #15) played against each other on the field in a recent game, Northwestern vs. Colgate.

2002

Erik Petersen, son of Jan Toscani Petersen ’70 and brother of Molly Petersen ’10, July 14, 2016. He is also survived by aunts Diane Toscani Bruno ’71 and Michele Toscani Gallagher ’77 and cousins Elena Gallagher O’Rourke ’05 and Juliette Gallagher ’07.

1977 Margaret (Peggy) O’Brien Canfield, May 13, 2016. She was the mother of Peggy O’Brien Vaughan ’77 and Susan O’Brien Fenimore ’78. She is also survived by her granddaughters, Kim Vaughan ’07, Tara Vaughan ’10, Alex Fenimore ’08 and Molly Fenimore ’10.

THE NOTRE DAME FUND

Together We Can … impact teaching and learning every day.

Your gifts to The Notre Dame Fund impact every aspect of the Notre Dame experience, from recruiting a talented and diverse student body to retaining dedicated educators and developing a world-class curriculum. Examples include: • Field trips to Washington, D.C., the National Constitution Center and a performance of Turandot presented by Opera Philadelphia • Financial aid for more than 150 students • Program support for Fine and Performing Arts, including renovations to the dance studio • Local and abroad internship and mentoring opportunities • Support for the Robotics and Coding Class to compete in the National Sea Perch Challenge • 1:1 middle school laptop program creating personalized learning A gift to the Academy is an opportunity for you to express your ongoing support for Notre Dame and our mission. Join in by supporting The Notre Dame Fund.

For more information, please contact Joy Antonoplos, Director of The Notre Dame Fund, at jantonoplos@ndapa.org or 610-971-1630.

You can give online at www.ndapa.org/makeagift.

Put your IRA to use for Notre Dame.

Are you over 70½ years of age? If so, then you are aware that you must start to take Required Minimum Distributions from your IRA. But, did you know that you may distribute a specific amount directly to Notre Dame that will satisfy the requirement, but will not increase your adjusted gross income and therefore not increase your income taxes? It may, in fact, save you money.

It is called an IRA Charitable Rollover and is becoming an increasingly popular option since Congress made the provision permanent last year. You may use an IRA Charitable Rollover to make your gift to The Notre Dame Fund or any other fund, such as a scholarship fund, or to satisfy a capital campaign pledge.

Please contact Sally Orr, Associate Director of Advancement, at 610-971-4919 or sorr@ndapa.org for further information on this attractive opportunity. Thank you for your support of Notre Dame students!

VISIONS FALL 2016

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2017 Calendar of Events 44th Annual Fine Art Show & Sale Preview Party with Artists Friday, January 27 Art Sale Open to Public January 28 - February 4 The Mansion

Experience ND Day Wednesday, March 8 Notre Dame Campus

BLAST - Boot Scootin’ Saturday, March 25 Notre Dame Campus

Reunion Weekend (2’s & 7’s) & Sunflower Run Friday, May 5 & Saturday, May 6 Notre Dame Campus

Eighth Grade Graduation Thursday, June 1 Aimee Willard Gymnasium

Class of 2017 Baccalaureate Mass Friday, June 2 Aimee Willard Gymnasium

Class of 2017 Graduation Saturday, June 3 The Mansion

2017 Golf Classic Tuesday, September 26 Applebrook Golf Club

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