Visions Winter 2022

VISIONS ACADEMY OF NOTRE DAME DE NAMUR

2

Welcoming Dr. Hotchkiss

6

WINTER 2022

Alumnae Educator Spotlight

Ms. Marielle Alexander announces the Spirit Day winner: the green Class of 2022!

STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS ADMINISTRATION Dr. Laura M. Hotchkiss, Head of School Dr. Liz Willis, Associate Head of School & Interim Director of Upper School Bridget Bonner, Director of Middle School CONTRIBUTORS Lisa D’Orazio, Editor, Director of Marketing & Communications Maria Breck Gunn, Director of Enrollment & Institutional Advancement Paula Gaughan, Event Coordinator/Parent Liaison Lauren Power, Director of Alumnae Relations Elizabeth Winter, Digital Marketing Manager DESIGN Biddle Design

Table of Contents 2 Welcoming Dr. Hotchkiss 6 Alumnae Educator Spotlight 11 Around Notre Dame 16 ND Sports 18 Fall 2021 in Photos 19 ND Arts

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Active Image Media | Campli Photography | Jay Gorodetzer ON THE COVER: ND students Maria Tufaro ’26, Grace Opperman ’22, and Alessandra Cherian ’24 helped welcome new Head of School Dr. Laura Hotchkiss to the Notre Dame community last summer.

Cover and inside front cover photos by Jay Gorodetzer

20 Alumnae News and Class Notes This issue of Visions reflects information gathered through December 15, 2021. If you have suggestions for future features, please share them with visions@ndapa.org.

Message from the HEAD OF SCHOOL Dear Notre Dame Community, Thank you for the warm welcome to the Academy of Notre Dame de Namur community. My husband, Dwight, and I have enjoyed immersing ourselves in all things ND, including exciting athletic contests highlighted by two fall sports championships, students shining on-stage in Chicago, dance performances, academic excellence on display in Hi-Q competitions, and the many ways our community is called to serve.

In addition to sharing the vibrant events from the first half of the 20212022 school year, this issue of Visions celebrates our educators. During these last few school years, teachers have been asked to do more and to reimagine teaching and learning, exemplifying how truly remarkable educators are. I am blessed to be amongst outstanding faculty–people who work tirelessly to provide the best for students, who have a passion for their work, who care deeply about developing community, and who make learning relevant.

Profiles of Notre Dame alumnae dedicated to the field of education as lawyers, teachers, researchers, and advocates are featured in our educator spotlight. These women reminded me of the amazing teachers and mentors who inspired me and played a role in my decision to become a teacher; they continue to influence the ways I connect with students today. I encourage everyone to take a moment to reflect on the teachers in your life who have made a difference.

MISSION STATEMENT The Academy of Notre Dame de Namur, a Catholic, independent, college preparatory school, commits itself to the education of young women in 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

Reflecting on my 30 years in education, the last two were certainly unique and complex as COVID-19 impacted all areas of school life. The teachers and staff who put students first, designed and redesigned the classroom experiences, created new and innovative ways to build relationships, and provided an excellent student-centered learning environment were my heroes! During our Teacher Appreciation Assembly, Samantha Smoot ’22 spoke on behalf of the entire student body and shared her love of her Notre Dame teachers, expressing gratitude for their hard work, their passion, and their dedication.

Teachers are the heart of Notre Dame, nourishing an environment where girls grow and develop into scholars, artists, and community servants with an appreciation of St. Julie’s mission to serve others and to proclaim through our actions that God is good. As you read about the educators who are celebrated in this issue of Visions, you will hear a recurring theme of gratitude for Notre Dame–the teachers, the experience, and the sisterhood. Please join me in celebrating the outstanding teachers at Notre Dame today and those who served the many generations of students before.

• enable them to develop the skills and desire necessary for lifelong learning

In gratitude and appreciation,

• empower them to be honorable, compassionate leaders

Dr. Laura M. Hotchkiss Head of School

1

NOTRE DAME INSTALLS

Dr. Laura M. Hotchkiss HEAD OF SCHOOL

2

VISIONS WINTER 2022

THE

Hotchkiss E R A

It is a new era for the Academy of Notre Dame de Namur. Head of School Dr. Laura M. Hotchkiss was given her official welcome to Notre Dame with an Installation Liturgy and Ceremony on Wednesday, October 6, 2021. The Liturgy, led by Rev. Peter M. Donohue, OSA, PhD, President of Villanova University, and Ceremony took place on Notre Dame's campus, with over 800 people in attendance.

The Liturgy was a true ND community event, from the banner procession led by students and moms of the Notre Dame Moms in Prayer group to the student and faculty speakers to the beautiful songs performed by the Notre Dame Women’s Chorale. A number of Heads of local schools were in attendance, as were Sisters of Notre Dame and the Executive Director of the National Coalition of Girls Schools Megan Murphy.

3

T HE

Hotchkiss E R A

Following the Liturgy, Notre Dame Student Council President Kyleigh Calvert ’22 gave the welcome address at the Installation Ceremony. Calvert shared, “We are so excited to welcome someone who inspires us. Someone who empowers us to be confident, female leaders each and every day. Someone who is approachable and works hard to ensure that our voices are heard. It is evident that Dr. Hotchkiss views us as more than academic students; she has a genuine care for us as young women who will grow to embody the hallmarks of Notre Dame. She strives to create personal connections and treats us with respect as we look up to her to become the best versions of ourselves. Her deep understanding of our values of sisterhood and community is evident every day. Dr. Hotchkiss shares a true appreciation for our traditions while also fostering a progressive mindset that encourages us to better our community.”

Anne Schoemaker Vazquez ’99, Chair of Notre Dame's Board of Trustees, officially installed Dr. Hotchkiss as Head of School, presenting her with the medal of St. Julie.

Vazquez said, “As Head of School, you will ensure that Notre Dame perseveres and makes available to all students the heritage of the past while preparing them for the future. As the leader of our independent, Catholic girls' academy, it rests upon you the responsibility of ensuring that Notre Dame accomplishes its mission, in keeping with the charism of St. Julie, of teaching our girls ‘what they need to know for life.’

On behalf of the Board of Trustees and the entire Notre Dame community, I welcome you and appoint you as the fifth Head of School of the Academy of Notre Dame de Namur.”

After her official installation, Dr. Hotchkiss shared the following remarks, “St. Julie once said, ‘We must have courage in the times we live in. Great souls are needed, souls having the interest of God at their heart.’ I pray for each of you and for our community that we become women and people with ‘hearts as wide as the world.’ Thank you for this amazing day and the welcome I've received in the almost 100 days I’ve been at Notre Dame. I look forward to what's to come, to getting to know each of you, and to being in community as we do this great work at Notre Dame.”

4

T HE

Hotchkiss E R A

VISIONS WINTER 2022

s e v a h t Mus Dr. Hotchkiss’s

Visions staff and ND student leaders from 5 Main sat down with Dr. Hotchkiss to find out some of the things she can’t live without /some of her favorite things – from meals to TV shows to sports.

WHAT ARE SOME THINGS YOU CAN'T LIVE WITHOUT? My books and my dogs FAVORITE COCO OUTFIT? I love her puffer coat.

WHAT GETS YOU GOING IN THE MORNING? Seeing the students in the drop-off circle and walking in the front door; the joy of being with young people and adults dedicated to their growth.

FAVORITE ND MOMENT SO FAR? At my Installation, I was overwhelmed by looking out from the Mansion steps at all of the students and faculty who were participating in the liturgy as a community and engaged in the ceremony. And, of course, the joy of Spirit Day!

FAVORITE TV SHOWS:

FAVORITE BANDS:

FAVORITE PLACE TO WALK/HIKE? There are many places to explore in the area; for now, I love Valley Forge, but I need to get out to new places.

FAVORITE FEMALE LEADERS? That's a really hard question, and it depends on the topic and what I'm thinking about. Some of my favorite leaders in athletics are Lindsey Vonn in skiing and Serena Williams in tennis; one of the most inspirational female leaders is Mother Teresa.

FAVORITE SPORT TO WATCH: College Basketball - love those Villanova Wildcats!

FAVORITE BOOKS? As a math teacher and STEM girl: Limitless Mind by Jo Boaler; for pleasure: Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens; recent favorite: Great Circle by Maggie Shipstead FAVORITE AUTHOR? I read anything and everything; I go back and forth from nonfiction to fiction.

FAVORITE RESTAURANT IN PHILADELPHIA:

FAVORITE RESTAURANT ON THE MAIN LINE:

FAVORITE FOODS/MEALS: I love being gathered around the table with family. Some favorite foods are Italian & Sushi.

COFFEE OR TEA? Coffee

FAVORITE COFFEE? Love a good latte.

FAVORITE THING ABOUT THE HOLIDAYS? Cooking and being with family and friends; love to try new recipes, gather around a beautiful table.

5

Alumnae Educator

Spotlight

Teaching is a lifelong career for the vast majority of individuals who are called to the profession, and in these times, teachers are not only taking on more, but the ways in which they are delivering content are ever-changing. Dr. Laura Hotchkiss, Head of School, shares, “In these times, educators are being asked to do more to serve our young people. For teachers who already see teaching as a calling, they are eager and excited to support the learning and well-being of their students. There is so much joy in our classrooms, on the stage, in the hallways, and on the field and an authentic desire to build relationships and community. At Notre Dame, the teachers go above and beyond to provide care and attention to the girls. They show up, they listen, they nurture, and they challenge — all while juggling the many demands of their own lives.”

Whether due to the influence or inspiration of a particular Notre Dame teacher, a passion for working with young people, or a combination of those elements, a significant number of graduates of the Academy of Notre Dame de Namur become educators after they leave the Gates. The Visions staff recognizes and dedicates this piece to the many alumnae working in education today, including the ND graduates who are currently serving as faculty and staff at Notre Dame. Read some of their stories, highlighting why they decided to enter the field of education, the individuals who had an influence on their career path, and what they enjoy most about working with students, below.

Dr. Gina Henry ’81 Teacher, HS2 Academy | Former Special Education Specialist, San Jose Unified School District | BA, University of Pennsylvania JD, University of Virginia Law School | MEd, College of William & Mary | PhD, University of Michigan

For Gina Henry, it’s all about connections–connecting passions with career choices and connecting ideas across disciplines. After graduating from the University of Pennsylvania with a BA in English Literature, Gina chose to pursue a law degree to capitalize on her verbal strengths. “I started out pre-med but had difficulties with math, making it impossible to continue. So, I went to my other strength: language,” she shares. “I read my first novel in first grade: Jubilee by Margaret Walker. By high school, it was obvious that language was my greatest talent.” Gina credits Sister Mary with recognizing her talent, saying “She really encouraged me.”

A high point of Gina’s love for language occurred when Gina was awarded a place in Penn’s study abroad program.

She studied English Literature at King’s College, University of London. Her next step was UVA Law, where she discovered that about a third of her law school professors were also PhDs or MDs who studied the overlap of law with sociology, medicine, or economics. “After I finished law school, I took six months off, went home, sat in Penn’s library and asked myself what really mattered to me. I remembered that I had enjoyed reading to the other kids in my kindergarten class since my mother had taught me to read when I was three, so it was obvious: education. I’m a person who believes that just about everything impacts just about everything else. That’s what my brain does–it looks for connections,” she explains. “So, the idea of studying how law affects education–something that has always been important to me–was appealing.

After finishing her Master’s in Education, Gina studied for and passed the Pennsylvania bar exam. She began a PhD in 1992, focusing on the overlap of law and education as it relates to students with special needs and exit exams. After completing classes and laying the foundation for her dissertation, Gina began her teaching career in Oakland County, Michigan in 1995 at a school that was “the last stop before juvenile detention.” She then decided to return to the San Francisco Bay Area, which she had first visited while completing her master’s degree. Gina taught with the San Jose Unified School District for 13 years, winning multiple awards for service before retiring in 2011.

Since 2011, Gina has worked for HS2 Academy, an after-school private school founded by Harvard graduate Ann Lee, whose idea was to recruit Ivy League graduates to educate and guide students through the college application process. At HS2, Gina has taught everything from test prep courses and essay writing to time management, study skills, and public speaking. Gina explains, “With a teaching degree and 13 years of experience, I wound up being the backbone of this exciting organization here in CA.”

6

Scan this QR code to read full profiles for our distinguished alumnae educators.

VISIONS WINTER 2022

Dr. Alison Pack ’84

Dr. Ana Smith Iltis ’92

Professor of Neurology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center | Chief, Epilepsy and Sleep Division, Columbia University Irving Medical Center | BA, University of Pennsylvania | MD, University of Pennsylvania | MPH, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University

Carlson Professor of University Studies, Professor of Philosophy, & Director - Center for Bioethics, Health and Society, Wake Forest University | BAH & BA, Villanova University | PhD, Rice University

The importance of community and giving back are at the core of Alison Pack’s college and career choices, two life lessons she credits Notre Dame with instilling in her that she still carries with her today.

Alison showed an interest in science at an early age. She was also drawn to “connecting with others and helping people. My experiences at ND, through the emphasis on community service, fostered the importance of these experiences. Medicine provides me opportunities on a daily basis to connect with and make a difference in the lives of others. I realized early in my career the importance of my teachers, professors, and mentors. When I was finishing my own training and choosing a path, I wanted teaching to be an integral part of my career.”

Now a Professor of Neurology at Columbia University Medical Center and Chief of the Epilepsy Division, Alison says, “I was fortunate to get the opportunity to be an academic neurologist at Columbia University Medical Center where I have multiple teaching responsibilities. I teach medical students both in the classroom and clinic setting. I mentor neurology residents and epilepsy fellows. I began a nationally accredited Epilepsy Fellowship at Columbia.”

“I owe a debt of gratitude to the ND community for providing a strong foundation. I left ND with a sense that if I worked hard I could accomplish my goals. I also left with a broad understanding of the importance of multiple aspects of life including the value of education, community, and service.”

Alison’s decision to work in both medicine and education was influenced by family members and a number of teachers and classmates. Her parents both worked in medicine — her father is a physician and her mother is a nurse. She fondly remembers ND teachers, including Sr. Patricia Kaupus, Sr. Mary Augusta, Mrs. Vera Suppa, Mrs. Cooper, Mrs. Charlotte Hyer, who “all brought a unique energy to the classroom and instilled a joy of learning … an ND education provides you with an outstanding foundation, a thirst for learning, and understanding of the importance of community. Classroom discussion pushed us beyond the facts.”

This push to discover truth “beyond the facts” is a helpful tool in Alison’s toolbox, particularly in her clinical work of treating patients with seizures, “from the young person with their first seizure to the woman with epilepsy who is considering having a child to the person who has been suffering with uncontrolled seizures for years.” In her educational work, Alison is able to do the same for her own students while teaching them about “the presentation and care of patients with epilepsy.”

About her work with students, Alison says, “I love sharing what I have learned from my own education and experiences. In addition, being an educator is a reciprocal experience. I learn so much from students through their questions and different perspectives.”

Ana Smith Iltis ended up in academia because she chose her passion - exploring ethical issues related to healthcare and biomedical research. Ana is the Director of the Center for Bioethics, Health and Society, and Professor of Philosophy at Wake Forest University. It was in learning the ropes of how to be employed as a philosopher and mentoring students that she realized how much education mattered to her. “I can't say that I set out to be a teacher, but I am so grateful that teaching found me,” Ana says.

As someone who has mentored a great deal of student research, Ana says she is often part of the joy of a student discovering new passions or the excitement of a student getting to publish or present a paper for the first time.

In collaborating with scholars in her own field and other fields around the world to understand and address a wide range of topics in bioethics, Ana is constantly learning. “I get to be a student for life, but I largely control what I learn and think about. It's the best of all possible worlds,” she says.

While at Notre Dame, Ana explains that she was given the space to forge her own path and march to the beat of her own drum.

“Knowing how to be creative and do things a bit differently and being confident in making my own way, have been vital to building a meaningful career that combines my interests in science, health, and ethics,” Ana shares.

While she could never name all of the Notre Dame teachers or classmates that had a significant impact on her, Ana says that Sr. Nancy Bonshock changed her life as a writer. In fact, during her first year at Villanova, Ana and fellow ND alumna Mary Kate Alexander ’92, were both pulled aside by a professor and commended for how well they were taught to write in high school.

Most of Ana’s career revolves around writing her own research papers, proposals, presentations, and teaching students to write clear and well-organized papers and theses. The constant practice of writing, getting feedback, and writing some more, made college and beyond that much easier for Ana. It was in English class her sophomore year that she understood just how much time and work Mrs. Ellen Lipschutz put into helping each student succeed. “I did not realize during my time at Notre Dame that we were being afforded opportunities that would make us be so well-prepared for college and that would make us stand out,” Iltis said.

7

EDUCATOR SPOTLIGHT

Natalie Malseed Sturgeon ’95 Math Specialist, Far Hills Country Day School | BS, Drew University | EdM, Harvard University Graduate School of Education

To say education was an important part of Natalie Malseed Sturgeon’s upbringing is an understatement. The daughter of two professors at the University of Pennsylvania, Natalie loved spending time in their labs and classrooms and even helped “grade” exams.

During her time as an undergrad at Drew, Natalie was introduced to a wide range of subjects. She explains, “I was required to take a variety of courses in different disciplines, and I was fascinated by my Intro to Psychology course. I had intended to major in biology and minor in chemistry, but I discovered their Neuroscience track was the perfect blend of biology and psychology. Harvard was just starting their Mind, Brain, and Education program when I was looking to attend graduate school, and it seemed like the ideal fit for me.”

From a young age, Natalie coached basketball summer leagues and camps and found that the teaching aspect of coaching is what resonated with her. After interning in a research lab one summer in college, she realized that the human interaction aspect was the favorite part of her job.

Photo by Becky Bedrosian Photography

Currently a Math Specialist at Far Hills Country Day School in New Jersey, Natalie says there are many students who do not see themselves as “math people” and feel they never will be. “Helping them understand how the brain works, how capable it is of learning new things, then watching students develop into confident mathematical thinkers is one of the greatest things I witness,” Natalie says.

Natalie shares that she learned many valuable lessons during her time at Notre Dame, including the value of hard work, resilience, and being true to yourself. “The wonderful teachers I had over my four years at Notre Dame have been an inspiration to me and helped to shape who I am and how I teach,” she says.

Natalie credits her parents for lighting the education spark of interest in her life, while also noting the incredible teachers she had in her formative years. Mrs. Sajeski and Ms. Monck greatly impacted Natalie’s math and science education, while Mrs. Suppa and Mr. Small sparked her love of literature. She also fondly recalls French class with Mmes Alexander, O’Grady, and Napier, while her decision to minor in political science stemmed from classes with Mrs. Connor and Sr. Nancy. “Knowing what strong influences teachers have had on my life makes me acutely aware of how important each and every interaction with a student is,” Natalie shares.

On her toughest days at work, Natalie finds herself going back to religion class with Mrs. Shelvin who spoke about sacramental moments, moments of grace that happen if you are open to them. “I think we can get so caught up in our work that we forget that there is a higher calling. That idea has helped ground me once again in what truly matters,” Natalie explains.

Alumnae Educators Return to the Academy Notre Dame is fortunate to have a number of alumnae serving as faculty and staff members. The five alumnae below reflect on the similarities and differences between Notre Dame today and the ND of the past during their time as students, and they share what they enjoy most about working at their alma mater.

Joan Sammartino Turner ’77, JD SOCIAL STUDIES DEPARTMENT CHAIR

“Most notable difference is the size of both the student body and campus buildings. My graduating Class of 1977 had 50 students. Cuvilly only had eight classrooms (no second floor), St. Julie wasn't built yet, nor (obviously!) Connelly or Harron. We did not use North Campus – it was a barn (Religion Center) – but we did use the BascomeTrexler building (it didn't have that name – we just called it the Math Center) for Art and Math.

“While buildings change, the thing that remains the same are the students and faculty and the close relationships that are built. I see students in the halls or in my classes who remind me of girls from 40 years ago – not just in looks but in spirit, excitement, and joy! My colleagues have the same care and concern as my teachers did. They are passionate about their subject matter and academic growth, but they also care for the girls' emotional and spiritual growth. They always have the best 8

interest of the students in mind and are available to support their needs.” Joan also shares, “One of the most emotional times is watching the graduates walk down the path to the Mansion patio as so many have done before them.”

What does Joan enjoy most about working at Notre Dame? “The relationships with the students and colleagues. We care for each other like family.”

just as then, the classes are taught by individuals who care tremendously about their students and want to do whatever is needed (inside or outside the box!) to make each student’s learning experience a successful one.”

What does Kate love most about teaching at ND? “Most definitely my students! They are so engaged, passionate, and fun to work with!”

Suzanne Moran ’07 Kate Small Rupertus ’93

SOCIAL STUDIES TEACHER

ART TEACHER

“When I was here as a student, the Sisters of Notre Dame were a major presence. They lived on campus, some taught classes, and all were active in the life of the school. Going to classes in the Mansion meant entering their home; you could even smell them cooking dinner in the afternoons. Having teachers like Sr Anne MacDonald and Sr Nancy Bonshock left a lasting impression on me. Sr Nancy is actually one of the reasons why I am a teacher; she showed me how powerful this role can be. It was a very different experience having the sisters here, and I miss them.

“Physically, ND is very different from when I was a student. There was no Harron hallway, no Aimee Willard gym, no Harron library, no Connelly Art center, and no Riley STEM Center. I had my chemistry classes in a lab that is now the backroom to the cafeteria, my art classes were in what is now the facilities center, math was in the cottage that now houses offices, English class was in the mansion dining room and the library is now the religion classrooms.

Something that has not changed though is that now,

VISIONS WINTER 2022

Jennifer Burns Leonard ’97 Chief Innovation Officer & Executive Director, Future of the Profession Initiative, University of Pennsylvania Law School | Lecturer in Law, University of Pennsylvania | Law School | BA, Pennsylvania State University | JD, University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School

Jen Burns Leonard practiced law for over 10 years and now holds a number of positions at Penn Law, but she admits that she initially pursued a law degree “without knowing much about what lawyers really do. I didn’t have lawyers in my family, so my main exposure was from watching Law & Order and studying To Kill a Mockingbird in Mr. Small’s American Literature class. Popular culture always portrayed lawyers as seeking the truth, advocating for justice. These are all admirable dimensions of legal work, and I had the privilege of working with many lawyers who embodied the ideal lawyer.”

However, when Jen takes a good look at her family, she sees “that education was the throughline all along. My Dad was a Philadelphia public school teacher for 40 years, my Mom spent her career working at Bryn Mawr College, and my aunt was the director of a childcare center. Amy Lazor Miguel ’97 and I would turn my basement into a classroom and pretend to be schoolteachers.”

Jen came to discover her true passion: “helping developing learners—whether they are three years old or 30 years old—find their path and grow their skills.” So, she started pursuing a Master’s degree in education at night while working as a lawyer during the day.

Jen now serves as Chief Innovation Officer & Executive Director of the Future of the Profession Initiative at Penn Law, but she is also a Professor. She shares, “The incredible educators who helped shape me during my ND years continue to inspire my work as an educator … Every teacher I had the privilege to know was exceptional. From project-based learning to individualized learning plans to scaffolded learning environments where we felt challenged and supported, I draw from their example every day.”

Jen is inspired daily by her students. She explains, “Our students are brilliant, eager to change the world for good, and excited about the many ways the legal profession is changing to be healthier, more innovative, and inclusive. On days when I feel tired or not at my best, 10 minutes with a student over coffee or after class will lift my spirits and push me to be even better.”

Education is also always changing, but the values and dynamics remain the same, especially at schools like Notre Dame.

At a recent gathering, Jen shares, “We were talking about the virtues of attending an all-girls’ school. I recalled that, when I got to college, one of my female professors encouraged the women in the class to participate in equal measure with the men. It never occurred to me until that moment not to participate equally. Notre Dame recognized that the world is complex and presents young women with many challenges. But the educational philosophy Notre Dame promotes helped us grow stronger to meet those challenges head-on instead of lowering our hands and quieting our voices.”

However, some things are very much the same.

Many of the faculty that taught me are still here today – Joan [Turner], chair of my department, was my history teacher in Middle School. I still remember her lesson on John Locke vividly; she's one of the reasons I became interested in history as a student. Many departments have at least one faculty member that was one of my teachers, and that's a special connection that I value.

What does Suzanne enjoy most about working at Notre Dame? “I love having so much in common with my students. Although I graduated in 2007, they have a lot of the same teachers, take a lot of the same classes, and engage in the same traditions (like Spirit Day - go yellow class!). Being able to connect with my students over these shared experiences is really valuable.”

very much alive within the gates. My ND friends and I always looked forward to going to school, and that same enthusiasm from students is still present.

Students are still laughing, skipping up and down hallways, smiling (even behind masks), and being their goofy selves. The faculty and staff are still incredibly supportive, engaged, and motivated to see students succeed.

“While a lot is still the same, Notre Dame is physically different. The campus is even more beautiful compared to when I was a student, which I didn't think was possible. Another big difference is that there are more opportunities and resources offered to students. Since I was a student, the academic, extracurricular, and athletic opportunities, resources, and offerings have expanded and grown tremendously. Honestly, sometimes I wish I could take some of the classes that are now offered.”

Kara Schultheis Brown ’08 ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF UPPER SCHOOL ADMISSIONS

“Notre Dame is the same community it was when I was a student. There may be some new faces; however, the energy, spirit, and community are still

What does Kara love most about working at ND? “The community (Coco included)! This wonderful community is warm, welcoming, supportive, and fun, celebrating each other’s successes and supporting each other through challenges.”

Julia Tully ’08 DIRECTOR OF CAMPUS MINISTRY

“What stands out to me as feeling the same is the experience the girls are having. While there are updated facilities and new faculty faces, the girls are still getting to know each other, plotting fun Advent Angel surprises, and growing into women who want to make a difference in the world. They know that they're cared for by their teachers, and the feeling of fun and camaraderie in the hallway is the same.”

What does Julia enjoy about working at her alma mater? “I love watching students grow and find a sense of passion! I have gotten to watch students push themselves out of their comfort zones to lead Kairos or speak at Community Prayer, and I love getting to give students a space to share themselves with our school community. When a student comes into my office to chat about a meaningful service experience or an idea for something new, I love to see her energy.”

9

EDUCATOR SPOTLIGHT

Kelly Phelan Ciminera ’06

Elisa Oliver ’11

Principal, Ss Colman-John Neumann School | BS, Mount St. Mary’s University | Elementary Administrators Development Program, Archdiocese of Philadelphia | Pursuing Master’s Degree at Immaculata University

Statistics Teacher & 12th Grade Level Chair, KIPP DuBois Charter School | National Curriculum & Assessment Writer, KIPP Foundation | AP Statistics Reader, The College Board BA, Duke University | MSEd, Johns Hopkins University School of Education

Some people know from a very young age that they were destined to work in education - whether due to a love of working with children, a passion for learning, or someone recognizing a unique gift within. For Kelly Phelan Ciminera ’06, it was all of those things and more. “I have wanted to be a teacher ever since I was seven years old. I loved my first and second grade teacher, Mrs. Judge, and I always wanted to be just like her. I absolutely love kids and I love to help them learn and succeed.”

Like many college freshmen, Elisa Oliver was unsure what she wanted to study. That was until a friend convinced her to take Intro to Public Policy, and from that point on, Oliver was hooked.

Elisa received her bachelor’s degree in public policy with a double minor in education and Spanish from Duke University. She is now a statistics teacher at KIPP DuBois Collegiate Academy.

Kelly has had a number of role models who have encouraged her to pursue that voice inside telling her that the classroom was where she was meant to be. “While I was a student at Notre Dame, I knew I wanted to be in education. My teachers continued to help my love of education flourish.

They gave me opportunities to visit an elementary school on Career Day and helped me to find a college that was known for a wonderful education program. ND always believed in me.”

Kelly taught 2nd grade for four years and 1st grade for six years at Sacred Heart in Manoa. A mom of one of her students told her that one day she would be a principal. Kelly shares, “Quite frankly, I thought she was crazy!

But that never left my mind or my heart. As my career continued, it was something that deep down I had always wanted to achieve.”

In the summer of 2020, Kelly was ready for that next step. “I became the principal at Ss. Colman John Neumann School on July 1, 2020, right in the middle of the pandemic!” Despite the challenges brought on by COVID-19, Kelly says, “It was one of the best years of my life. My favorite part of being a principal is that I get to have an impact on hundreds of students and families.”

Thanks in part due to her time at Notre Dame, Kelly felt well prepared for college, career, and beyond. “ND prepared me for life more than I could have imagined or expected. I was so prepared for college that it was evident in all of my classes,” Kelly shares.

“The teachers at ND were amazing; they helped me realize that education was where I was meant to be. I had some very special teachers – from Mr. Small to Mrs. Suppa to Mrs. Sajeski to Madame Alexander.

Each one inspired me and gave me ideas to bring to my own classroom.

The teachers and classmates became like family. They truly cared about each and every girl and that made a huge impact.”

Early in her public policy study days, Elisa was focusing on a case study on public and charter schools and found herself deeply, and emotionally, invested in the work of policy decisions within the public school system. While at Notre Dame, Elisa shares that she was always drawn to the education world. Her interest began with tutoring classmates in the writing center and spending her community service hours teaching CCD at her parish.

What Elisa enjoys most about working in education is that the work is fresh every single day - that each day is dynamic and fluid based on the knowledge and experience her students bring to the classroom.

One of the greatest gifts Elisa was given was an introduction to Zaretta Hammond’s work on Culturally Responsive Teaching and The Brain.

“Creating a classroom that is a community of learners where students bring as much wisdom and insight to the classroom as I do has made my classroom such a dynamic space that I am excited to enter every day,” Elisa explains.

Elisa shares that Notre Dame had an influence on her decision to enter the education field. She explains that at the beginning of each school year, she begins with a hopes and fears activity. The activity gives students the space to share their hopes for the course and classroom environment, while sharing their fears of math and how they overall view themselves as a learner. “Every year when I talk about my hopes for our class I share about the most beautiful classroom environment I have ever been a part of as a student in Mrs. Gleason’s AP Physics class. Every time my own classroom hits that special sauce of rigorous content and deep community, I think of how lucky I was to have experienced that so often at Notre Dame,” Elisa says.

What has stuck with Elisa since her days at Notre Dame are the faith, optimism, and persistence of St. Julie. “I try to offer those around me (myself included) a reminder that God is good and a better world is possible, in fact, it’s guaranteed as long as we pray with our feet and keep our hearts as wide as the world,” she says.

Scan this QR code to read full profiles for our distinguished alumnae educators.

10

VISIONS WINTER 2022

AROUND

NOTRE

DAME The Academy of Notre Dame de Namur Welcomes New Faculty and Staff The Academy of Notre Dame de Namur welcomed 11 new faculty and staff members for the 2021-2022 academic year.

Joining new Head of School Dr. Laura Hotchkiss were faculty members Jeremy Creighton, mathematics; Christina DeAngelo, chemistry; Liliana Hernandez, Spanish; B. Alan Horn, mathematics; Heather Newman, mathematics; Toni Griffin, mathematics; Chrissy Keffer, religion; and Martin Lopez, religion. New staff members at ND included David Teasdale, Director of Operations, Elizabeth Winter, Digital Marketing Manager; and Wendy Rivera, Operations.

MAIN LINE STUDENTS OF THE WEEK Olivia Friess ’22 was named Main Line Student of the Week for the week of October 25, 2021. Olivia started the Environmental Club at Notre Dame, was a leader on the school’s recent mural project (“Every Person is a New Door to a Different World”), is an involved member of Notre Dame’s Diversity Club, is a Global Citizen Scholar, and is a member of the JV tennis team.

Jordyn Williams ’22 was named Main Line Student of the Week for the week of December 6, 2021. Williams is the president of ND’s Chapter of the National Honor Society and is an active Student Council Representative for the Class of 2022. She is a leader of the Upper School tutoring program and helped start the Middle School tutoring club.

Williams also represented Notre Dame at the National Coalition of Girls Schools “Girls’ School Advantage” event.

Financial Literacy at ND

Design Thinking

The finance class at ND learned what it takes to balance a budget while competing in the National Fall Financial Literacy Challenge. All students who participated received a Financial Literacy certificate and multiple students placed in the top 25!

Students in the “Design Thinking” course started the year off by building Rube Goldberg machines which are complex, multi-step machines that complete a simple task.

STUDENT OF THE MONTH

Audrey Ciarmoli ’27

Congratulations to 7th grader Audrey Ciarmoli, Toscana Student of the Month for December!

Audrey is the first ND student to be honored as Student of the Month in the Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors and Marple Friends & Neighbors magazines. A member of the National Junior Honor Society and Student Council, Audrey also volunteers at her church, St. John Neumann, helping with the Parish Religious Education Program (PREP) camp, which welcomes children of all abilities, including those with developmental, intellectual, sensory, physical or behavioral disabilities.

11

AROUND NOTRE DAME

National Honor Society and National Junior Honor Society

Shining a Light on Women in STEM

On November 3, 2021, 52 students were inducted into the National Honor Society, and 30 students were inducted into the National Junior Honor Society. Notre Dame NHS Chapter President Jordyn Williams ’22 said in her speech to the inductees, “You’ve entered a lifelong sisterhood of scholarship that welcomes you with open arms.”

Notre Dame celebrates and emphasizes the importance of women in STEM fields every day. On November 8, 2021, Notre Dame joined the rest of the nation in celebrating education and careers in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, with a particular focus on women breaking the STEM glass ceiling.

According to the National Coalition of Girls’ Schools (NCGS), all-girls’ schools are leading the way in closing the gender gap in STEM. “Graduates of girls’ schools report greater confidence than co educated peers in their ability to use technical science skills; understand scientific concepts; generate a research question; explain study results; and determine appropriate data collection,” shared NCGS. Notre Dame STEM Department Chair Kathleen McTiernan started her career in cancer research but felt isolated and wanted to interact more with people in the science world. McTiernan, who also teaches Middle School science, says that her experience with her own science teachers when she was a student, ignited her passion to “light the spark in students,” and said that a day like National STEM Day “gives the girls a chance to see what women can do.”

Notre Dame Named Apple Distinguished School for a Second Time

Varsity Mathletes’ Success!

Last fall, Notre Dame was once again selected as an Apple Distinguished School for 2021-2024, a three-year designation, for its continuous innovation in learning, teaching, and the school environment. Head of School Dr. Laura Hotchkiss said that she has “great pride in the work of our students and faculty for their creativity and passion for the education of our girls! Congratulations to the team for this recognition.”

Notre Dame was first designated as an Apple Distinguished School in 2018-2021. In order to be considered for the designation, a primary or secondary school must be a one-to-one Apple device school and teachers must have their Apple teacher certification, meaning they have had a certain amount of training in Apple products or programs.

The Notre Dame Varsity Mathletes Team finished first in the December contest! All team members exerted wonderful efforts in preparing. Special congrats to the top scoring ND students in the December contest: Ellie Pinto ’23, Lindsay McBride ’23, and Rebecca Jackson ’23.

12

VISIONS WINTER 2022

Students Recognized by National Merit Scholarship Corporation Notre Dame is thrilled to announce that 10 members of the Class of 2022 have been recognized by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation.

Kyleigh Calvert, Claire Chaplin, Olivia Friess, Brooke Husar, Kelly McGlinn, Abigail Rowley, Paige Shelton, Samantha Smoot, Natalie Stuart, and Andrea Wat have been named National Merit Commended Students based on their 2020 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) scores.

Student Diversity Leadership Conference Last fall, Notre Dame once again participated in the annual NAIS People of Color Conference (PoCC) and Student Diversity Leadership Conference (SDLC), which took place from Nov. 29 - Dec. 3. Adjuke Heyburn ’22, Sophia Bramley ’24, Audrey Gonzalez ’24, Ava Barrera ’24, Kyla Payne ’25, and Deborah Bundor ’24, participated in the week-long conference. "My biggest takeaway was that every human is different but there is always something in life that will bring us together. We can all relate to each other in some way. All you have to do is see some things from different perspectives," shared Deborah Bundor ’24.

Campus Ministry and Student Council Induction

Denim Day This year, the pink and denim fundraiser set a new record with over $3,400 raised for breastcancer.org!

In September, Notre Dame held its Induction Ceremony for both Campus Ministry and Student Council. “We recognize their leadership as a commitment to help others use their gifts and talents, to empower others to work as a team for a common cause and the greater good,” shared Dr. Hotchkiss.

Global Citizen Scholars Mural The Class of 2022 Global Citizen Scholars created this mural focusing on the theme of empathy throughout the 2020-2021 school year.

13

AROUND NOTRE DAME

CHRISTMAS SPIRIT AT ND

Advent Angels Advent Angels is a time-honored tradition at the Academy of Notre Dame during the week leading up to Christmas break!

Christmas Concert

Mother-Daughter Christmas Luncheon

On December 9, 2021, Notre Dame kicked off the holiday season with a beautiful Middle and Upper School Christmas Concert.

On Saturday, December 4, 2021, Notre Dame held its cherished tradition, the Mother-Daughter Luncheon and Holiday Shopping Event. Students and their special guests enjoyed a day of quality time at the Springfield Country Club.

Dance Company West Chester University Dance Festival The Upper School Dance Company was selected to perform at the West Chester University 14th Annual Winter Dance Festival.

14

VISIONS WINTER 2022

HOLIDAY SERVICE

Facebook Holiday Ceramics Auction Raises Funds for Women in Need

ND Raises Over $3,000 for CHOP On Friday, December 10, 2021, students ended the week with a pajama day and bake sale hosted by the Sunflowers and Smiles club. Over $3,000 was raised for Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia!

Bringing Christmas to Migrant Workers in FL ND Spanish classes and the Spanish Club participated in the annual Christmas project with the Sisters of Notre Dame ministry, writing cards in Spanish to migrant workers in Florida who are helped by Sr. Ann Kendrick, SND and her ministry, the Hope CommUnity Center. The cards were then distributed at the Center’s annual Christmas Party. Many students voluntarily contributed one dollar or more with the cards they made. Both the cards and donations were sent the week before Christmas.

Uplifting Christmas Ornaments A new club has been brought to Notre Dame, and its main priority is to end the stigma around mental health - the Bring Change to Mind (BC2M) Club. BC2M is a national organization founded by Glenn Close in 2009, with the goal of ending the stigma around mental health. The club gives teens the platform to share their voices and raise awareness around mental health.

During the holiday season, the club created Christmas ornaments displaying positive messages to support anyone who passes by.

Madeline Evans ’23 started the club at ND because she believes mental health is just as important as physical health and that there needs to be more done for the community.

“I have people in my personal life who have struggled, and I want to do as much as I can as a member of society to end the stigma and raise more awareness around mental health issues. Our goals as a club are to have difficult conversations and to do activities that will uplift the students at Notre Dame,” Madeline shared.

ND ceramics students generously donated their hand-crafted ceramic holiday plates and platters for the annual online auction to benefit Women of Hope, Notre Dame’s monthly service initiative that provides home-cooked meals and fellowship to the ladies who call WOH home. In total, over $1,000 was raised!

Bags to Mats Club Completes First Mat The Bags to Mats club got some help from the 8th grade religion class to complete their first full mat! The next step is to add handles for easy transport. The mats made will be donated to Angels in Motion, a Philadelphiabased organization dedicated to helping those suffering addiction. The club is now working on two mats and is always accepting donations of clean plastic bags.

ND Community Helps Those Affected by Domestic Violence From December 6-10, Notre Dame’s Student Government accepted monetary donations for Laurel House, a comprehensive domestic violence agency that offers an array of services to support individuals and families impacted by domestic violence. In total, the ND community raised over $1,000 to help those affected by domestic violence.

15

ACHIEVEMENTS

VOLLEYBALL

CROSS COUNTRY

ND Volleyball Wins 8th Consecutive PAISAA Championship Title

Notre Dame Cross Country Crowned Inter-Ac League Champions

The Notre Dame Volleyball team won its eighth consecutive Pennsylvania Independent School Athletic Association (PAISAA) Championship on Friday, November 5, 2021. The Irish defeated Agnes Irwin 3-1 in the championship game at Germantown Academy with scores of 25-18, 25-21, 24-26, and 25-17. The Irish finished their season at 17-5.

“For the four of us to leave Notre Dame with the program’s eighth consecutive PAISAA championship was the most important thing on our agenda,” said senior Maddie O’Meara, who had 33 assists and seven aces in the win. “The Inter-Ac was important too, and we let that slip through our fingers; this one, we just started out much stronger and kept our energy consistent throughout the sets. We didn’t know what would happen, but we just wanted to give our best, and that’s what we got.”

It came down to the wire for ND Cross Country on Monday, October 18, 2021, at Belmont Plateau. The Varsity Cross Country team defeated Penn Charter in an exciting Championship meet winning by just one second - to take home the 2021 Inter-Ac crown!

Four ND runners placed in the top 10, with Therese Trainer ’23 (19:50.20) in 2nd, Kyleigh Calvert ’22 (20:50.40) in 6th, Maura Brady ’23 (20:54.40) in 7th, and Caroline Stevenson ’22 (21:06.30) in 9th.

Senior Caroline Stevenson said that throughout the season the team saw a dramatic amount of personal bests made, which proved to them that their hard work was paying off. “In a sport like cross country, speed only matters when the person has determination and grit. As a teammate, I can easily say that all girls on the team strongly represent these characteristics,” said Stevenson. “No one was racing for themselves that day. We wanted something bigger. We wanted to win the title as a team and we wanted to come back to ND as Inter-Ac champions,” said Calvert.

SOCCER

A Historic Season for Soccer

16

It was a season to remember for our Upper School Soccer team. Reaching the final of the PAISAA championship for the 1st time in the program's history, a finishing record of 16-5-2, and going unbeaten in nonleague play was a great accomplishment. The PAISAA final went the way of Springside Chestnut Hill, by a score of 1-0 in a tight and well-played final. SCH scored the only goal of the game midway through the first half.

Irish's goalkeeper, freshman Sophie Hall, pulled off some superb saves to keep SCH at bay. When the final whistle sounded, the Irish, although disappointed with the result, showed great spirit and should be more than proud of what they achieved this season.

VISIONS WINTER 2022

ACHIEVEMENTS Notre Dame Fall 2021 Signing Day Congratulations to the senior athletes who made a verbal commitment to compete in their respective sports at the Division I collegiate level next year!

Ashley Kolessar UCLA

Caroline Doyle St. Louis University

Madison Frank Georgetown University

FIELD HOCKEY

FIELD HOCKEY

SWIMMING

Evelyn O’Neill Villanova University FIELD HOCKEY

Natalie Stuart University of Richmond

Maeve McErlane DePaul University

Emma Steel Lehigh University

SWIMMING

BASKETBALL

FIELD HOCKEY

ATHLETES OF THE WEEK Saylor Milone ’24 was named Main Line Athlete of the Week for the week of October 11, 2021. The forward for the ND field hockey team scored 19 goals in the team’s first 10 games. As a freshman, Milone received second team All Main Line honors, and this year, Milone received first team All-Delco honors. Head Coach Adele Williams said, “Saylor is a very poised player, whose calmness on the ball, great speed, and outstanding stick skills, especially in 1v1 situations, creates scoring opportunities for both her and her teammates.”

Maddie O’Meara ’22 was named Main Line Athlete of the Week for the week of December 20, 2021. O’Meara is a setter and co-captain for the Irish volleyball team. A first team All Inter-Ac and honorable mention All-Delco selection, O’Meara helped send the Irish to their 8th consecutive PAISAA girls’ volleyball title, leading the team in assists and aces. Head volleyball coach Mike Sheridan said, “Maddie was coolest when the pressure was the greatest, not only with her setting, but also with her serving and defense. Her consistency in setting a variety of balls allowed strong attacks from all front row hitters.

She truly was the engine that made the offense go.”

ND Senior Recognized for Achievements Both On and Off the Field Notre Dame senior Madison Frank was named a school level winner of the Heisman High School Scholarship in recognition of outstanding achievements in academics, athletics, and community service. The program honors the nation’s most accomplished, communityminded high school senior athletes.

17

Fall Highlights MOTHER-DAUGHTER LITURGY AND PICNIC On September 17, 2021, students and their moms/special friends enjoyed music, food, and fun during the annual Mother-Daughter Picnic.

FATHER-DAUGHTER COMMUNION BREAKFAST Over 200 fathers and daughters gathered for mass and breakfast at Springfield Country Club on October 24. It was wonderful to see so many Notre Dame families enjoying fellowship!

GOLF & TENNIS CLASSIC On September 21, 2021, alumnae, parents, and friends came together for a day of fun and camaraderie at the Golf & Tennis Classic to support the Academy of Notre Dame de Namur.

18

ND ARTS

VISIONS WINTER 2022

The Notre Dame Arts came back this school year with a sold out production of Chicago: High School Edition.

The show, performed on November 12 and 13, 2021, in Cuvilly Hall, featured an outstanding performance filled with drama, vibrant costumes and superb vocals. Leading the cast was Julia Youakim ’23 as Roxie, Amelia Mordan ’22 as Velma, Julia Pyfer ’23 as Matron Mama Morton, and Catherine Chapman ’22 as Mary Sunshine.

19 15

Alumnae News After two cancellations, the third time was the charm for Reunion Weekend, in honor of the Reunion Classes of 0s & 5s and 1s & 6s. This long-awaited event, which took place on Saturday, October 16, 2021, was a beautiful day to reunite, with a special Luncheon and Cocktail Reception held in the Mansion and on the Mansion Terrace, respectively.

!

1 2 0 2 n o i Reun

The Classes of 1970 and 1971 enjoyed reminiscing about the great times they had through the Gates at their milestone 50th Reunion.

Members of the Class of 1965 enjoyed the Luncheon and the Cocktail Reception, celebrating their 55th Reunion.

20

Pictures are worth 1000 words - sisterhood and friendship.

Members of the Class of 2011 came together to capture a great memory at Reunion 2021.

VISIONS WINTER 2022

The Class of 1966 enjoyed the gorgeous day from the Mansion Terrace.

Happy to be back together again, the Class of 2001 was all smiles during their long-awaited Reunion.

The photo booth was a popular spot at Reunion 2021!

The Class of 2016 had a wonderful turnout for their 5-year celebration.

Members of the Class of 1995 celebrated 25 years out of the Gates.

21

ALUMNAE NEWS On December 5, 2021,, alumnae and their families kicked off the Christmas season at Notre Dame’s 2nd Annual Cookies & Cocoa with Santa. The children had a blast visiting Santa and sharing their wish list!

On December 14, 2021, the season’s celebrations continued with the annual Alumnae Christmas Party at The Union League of Philadelphia.

On December 16, 2021, the Classes of 2020 and 2021 reunited in Cuvilly Hall for lunch and a college panel discussion with Upper School students. The advice they shared was invaluable, particularly to the seniors.

22

VISIONS WINTER 2022

Alumnae News 2021-2022 Executive Alumnae Board Officers and At-Large Members Megan McNeill Trost ’94 President Cerise Knowles James ’91 Vice President Kaitlin Smith Donnelly ’08 Secretary Samantha Carroll Harris ’05 Treasurer

SQUARE CORNER SPOTLIGHT:

Frances Casey Hansen, Sq ’55 “Twas the eighteenth of April in 1937 that I made my entrance into this wonderful world of ours. I was the first born in the Casey family, which grew when my twin sisters were born six years later and my brother was adopted 12 years after that.

“At age six, I took two trolley cars to attend the Academy of Notre Dame, Rittenhouse Square. I spent 12 happy years there, before graduating in 1955 as President of the Student Council. I credit my love of embroidery and reading to the Sisters of Notre Dame who taught me in 4th and 5th grades.

I find both activities keep me busy in my later years, living in Haddon Heights, NJ.

JoAnne DiLauro Alexander ’57 Danielle Dunn O’Connor ’01 Hannah Fuss ’16 We would like to extend our sincerest gratitude to the members of the Executive Alumnae Board who have worked to advance the Alumnae community and the programming within the Association.

2021-2022 Rittenhouse Square Alumnae Board Officers Loretta Salvadore Hartnett ’55 President Janet Salvadore Colella ’59 Treasurer Rose DeRienze ’55 Frances Casey Hansen ’55 Joan Lotuff Kummeth ’54 Jeanette McGann Lamb ’64 Anne Stevenson McAdams ’57 Patti Devereaux McAleer ’66 Rosalie Foti Morgan ’56 Joan Pacella ’58 Kasey Morgan Price ’60 Irene Ricci Rejewski ’59 Nancy Rigney ’51

“My first job was teaching 3rd grade at St. Monica’s School in Philadelphia, while attending Saturday and summer school at Villanova University to earn a degree in elementary education. After five years at St. Monica’s, I spent eight years teaching in Camden, NJ, both as a teacher and a supervisor of other teachers.

In 1965, I married my husband, Bob. It was a happy union which lasted 42 years until he passed in 2007. Bob and I were blessed with our only child, Clare, who was born in 1967. Clare has been a nurse for 31 years and a great comfort and support to both myself and her father when he was alive. She’s been a loving companion and the most important and valued person in my life.

“When Clare began school, I resumed teaching as a substitute in the Collingswood, NJ, public school system. Although I was active in my parish, Church of the Transfiguration, as a lector and a Eucharistic minister (a role that I still hold today), I became more involved in my faith when I was certified as a chaplain by the National Association of Catholic Chaplains in 1990. This enabled me to work at Our Lady of Lourdes Medical Center in Camden, a position I held for eight years. I had the opportunity to visit patients of all faiths in all areas of the hospital. I became a better listener and more tolerant of people and problems. It was a life changing experience.

“Throughout the years, I have actively participated in our ’Square’ Alumnae Association. Along with Anne Stevenson McAdams ’57, I was co-president of our Alumnae Association for many years.

“Even though it has been 56 years since my graduation and the ’Square’ is no longer, my love for the Sisters of Notre Dame and my classmates is alive and flourishing.

Thanks to the Academy of Notre Dame Villanova, our Square Alumnae have found a welcoming home to celebrate our yearly Mass and meetings. I whole-heartedly say in the words of St. Julie ’How good is the good God.’”

Reunion Weekend 2022

May 6: Athletics Hall of Fame & Alumnae Awards Ceremony May 7: Reunion Celebration (Alumnae in Classes Ending in 2 & 7) Stay tuned for details via email in the coming months!

23

ALUMNAE CLASS NOTES

Alumnae Class Notes 1960s Barbara Spinozzi Mellor ’68 has been a successful entrepreneur for many years and also possesses a keen interest in piano and jazz.

1970s Patricia Gregg Fanelli ’70 graduated from the Lankenau School of Medical Technology and continued working in the Hematology Lab for 43 years. She and her husband, Daniel, have three children and three grandchildren.

Nancy Anne Filano Glessner ’70 earned a Master’s degree in education from Villanova University and began her career teaching French at Notre Dame. After having children and staying home with them, she went on to experience different career paths in banking and the medical field as a cardiac monitor technician. She and her husband, Mike, have two sons, two grandchildren, and another one on the way.

Gail Hackett ’70 attended Pennsylvania State University and received three degrees, including a PhD in Counseling Psychology in 1978. She pursued a career in academia and worked at several universities as a faculty member. She spent 20 years at Arizona State University before taking on the role of Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University. She is approaching retirement and has plans to move to South Jersey and spend time with family, her son and granddaughter.

1980s Cheryl Ann Kennedy ’83 is a Traffic Reporter at iHeartMedia. She earned her BA in Arts and Communications from Chestnut Hill College and returned as an Adjunct Instructor, specializing in Public Speaking.

Kimberly Tierney Pegg ’88 former President of the Alumnae Executive Board has started a successful charcuterie business called “Board in Delco.”

Shannon Fitzpatrick Thomas ’88 opened a Private Practice in Newtown Square offering inperson and virtual Counseling Services to youth ages 11 and up. Shannon specializes in developing the therapeutic relationship built on the Trauma Informed Care principles of Safety, Trust, Empowerment, and Collaboration. Together she and her clients move through the struggles and instill a new sense of hope. Her practice specializes in using brain-based approaches to identify and reduce stressors, incorporate safety and self-care plans, and teach cognitive-behavioral techniques to help modify thoughts and behaviors to manage anxiety, worry, depression, stress, and other related concerns.

24

1990s Megan Budd Forgie ’92 is the founder and creator of The Shine Center in Wayne, PA. The Shine Center is a safe, diverse, nonjudging space offering Life Coaching Sessions and Mindfulness Workshops to adults and teens focusing on intention and authenticity. Megan is a Certified Professional Life Coach and a Mindfulness & Meditation Guide.

Megan received her BA in Communications from Lynchburg College before embarking on a career as an intern in radio, Account Executive, and Web Designer. Megan and her husband, Matt, have two sons, Jack and Christopher.

Moira Sims Hobson ’93 works at Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Fox Roach. She is a Realtor for The Hospodar Team, which is led by fellow Alumna Dana Sims Hospodar ’80.

Megan Trost ’94 has begun her second term as President of the Alumnae Executive Board. She also works at the Holy Child School at Rosemont as the Assistant to the Head of School.

Kelly Cunningham ’98 is the Director of Engagement at The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement. She is a Business Administration and Marketing & Communications professional with over 14 years of experience managing programs and projects and developing and overseeing innovative communication and marketing strategies.

2000s Lindsey Conan ’00 was victorious in becoming the Edgmont Township Supervisor.

Maya Noronha ’01, a visiting fellow at Independent Women’s Law Center, appeared on C-SPAN on a panel discussing redistricting law. 6

Members of the Class of 2001 (left to right) Rosemary Connors, Andrea Downs Cooper, Kiera McKendrick McElrone and Mary Bruch at a gathering in the fall. Rosemary is an anchor and reporter with NBC10. Andrea lives in Wayne, PA, running a household with four children ages nine and under. Kiera is a doctor with Penn Medicine in Chester County. Mary is an attorney with the New York Housing Development Corp. in NYC. Kathleen Donovan ’04 is a Senior Clinical Veterinarian at Saint Louis University. She received her BA in Biology at Washington University in St. Louis before earning her advanced degree at the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine Experience. Her impressive resume includes Veterinary and fellowships stints at the University of Missouri, Stanford University, and University of Iowa.

Molly Kelly Joyce ’04 was promoted to Senior Vice President, Head of Social and Influencer Strategy at Brian Communications. She and some of her classmates are pictured below, enjoying their time together. 6

VISIONS WINTER 2022

Alex Burtoft Gilroy ’04 and her family welcomed Hayden Ford Gilroy on August 6, 2021. She joins big sister, Rylan.

Kelly Hanna ’04 recently launched her new business, Kelly Hanna Photography, specializing in Personal Branding and Headshots as well as magazine-style portraiture.

Kacy McNichol ’04 and Andrew Cellucci were married on June 25, 2021, at Sacred Heart Church and Radnor Valley Country Club.

Shannon Killeen Schwartz ’04 and her husband Michael welcomed their daughter, Morgan Nancy Schwartz, on April 18, 2021. 6

Maggie Cummings ’06 is the new Event Planning Manager at The Bellevue Hotel - In the Unbound Collection by Hyatt in Center City, Philadelphia. While she specializes in corporate meetings and conferences, Maggie also plans many social events and weddings at the hotel.

Jackie McCabe Flanagan, PhD, ’06 and her husband Patrick welcomed a baby boy, Thomas McCabe Flanagan, on September 7, 2021. Jackie, Pat, and Tommy live in Georgetown, Washington D.C., where Jackie is a Partner at Bain & Company, specializing in the Biopharma and Life Sciences industries.

Maggie Mullaney ’07 is living in Miami Beach, FL, and is the Director of Marketing at Batallure Beauty. Maggie studied at Saint Joseph’s University (SJU) where she received her BS in Business Administration and Food Marketing.

While at SJU, Maggie was captain of the Division-1 Tennis Program from 2009-2011.

Brittany Duffy ’08 lives in Chicago and works at JP Morgan. Brittany married her husband, Ryan Landin, on September 18, 2021.

Valentina Baio ’05 majored in Mechanical Engineering at Lehigh University where she received both her BS and MS degrees, in 2009 and 2011, respectively. During her time at Lehigh, she was involved in the Formula SAE Team, which is how she got her first experience in automotive. She started working at Dorman Products in 2011 as a Product Engineer on their Window Regulator and Door Lock Actuator product lines. Since then, she has worked as an Engineering Manager, Director of Engineering, and now as Director of Quality and Engineering Systems, Process, and Analytics. She is also a founding member of the Dorman Women’s Group. She visited Notre Dame’s campus in November of 2021 to speak with STEM scholars.

Sam Carroll Harris ’05 and her family welcomed John Matthew “Jack” Thompson Harris on April 26, 2021.

Kaitlin Smith Donnelly ’08 and her new husband, Andrew, celebrated their wedding reception on Friday, August 13, 2021, at the Ballroom at the Ben. Their wedding ceremony took place on December 30, 2020, at Villanova.

Kaitlin and her bridesmaids took their wedding photos on the Notre Dame campus. Her ND bridesmaids included Megan Smith O’Sullivan ’10, Kara Brown ’08, Julia Tully ’08, Mary Emily Pagano ’08, Lauren Willis Cardone ’08, and Anne Jordan ’08. 6

Garbriela Benner Dokas ’08 and her husband, Michael, welcomed baby boy, John “Jack” James Dokas, on June 13, 2021. 6

Alexandra Fenimore ’08 married Kevin Kelly on October 8, 2021, at the Radnor Hunt in Malvern, PA. Alex is the daughter of Susan O’Brien Fenimore ’78 and sister of Molly Fenimore ’10. 6

Jen Stipa Snopko ’08 and her husband, Alex, welcomed baby boy, Peter Lloyd Snopko, on August 8, 2020.

Rosetta DePaul ’09 and Shane Doherty had their engagement photos taken at Notre Dame, choosing the Mansion as the location as a nod to the role that Philadelphia and its suburbs play in their relationship. Rosetta credits the Class of 2009’s five-year reunion in 2014 for realizing that Shane, who was her “plus-one” that evening, was “The One.” Rosetta and Shane live in

25

ALUMNAE CLASS NOTES

Boston, MA. Shane proposed on September 19, 2020, at The Sagamore Resort in Lake George, NY, and their wedding is scheduled for May 14, 2022, at Hammond Castle Museum in Gloucester, MA. 6

Notre Dame at The Reeds On August 5, 2021, the Notre Dame community gathered at The Reeds in Stone Harbor to welcome Dr. Laura Hotchkiss, our new Head of School, and celebrate the beginning of a new era at the Academy.

2010s Kristen McNeill Nicholls ’11 and her husband, Graeme, welcomed Madison Quinn Nicholls on June 23, 2021. 6

Madeline Tague ’11 has built a successful cooking business and blog called “Mad About Food.” You can find her delicious recipes and more on her website: madaboutfood.co.

Jennifer Wagner ’11 began a new position as Direct Hire Senior Recruiter - Accounting and Finance at firstPro, Inc. Caroline Powers ’12 works in New York City in investment management at J.P. Morgan Asset Management.

Katie Gerzabek Salem ’11, a graduate of the University of Maryland with a degree in Kinesiology and Exercise Science, earned a Master’s degree from Temple in Educational Leadership and Administration. This year is Katie’s first as a collegiate head coach, taking the helm of the Field Hockey program at Rhodes College! At Maryland, Katie was a standout and NFHCA All-American. As a captain her senior year, she led the Terps to their first Big Ten Regular Season Championship. Katie went on to be an assistant coach at both Temple and Syracuse (for 3 years each).

26

Mikayla Spurlock ’13 is living in Charlotte, North Carolina Senior and worked as an Analyst at Valuant before becoming a Senior, FSO at EY. She graduated from the University of South Carolina with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Finance and a Master of Accountancy. She is a certified Public Accountant.

Megan McGurk ’13 is living and working in New York City as a Sales associate for WisdomTree Asset Management. Megan graduated from Bucknell University in 2017 and enjoyed a successful career playing for the Women’s Basketball program for four years, earning numerous player and academic awards.

Erika Westlake ’14 will graduate from the Sydney Kimmel College of Medicine in May 2022.

Hattie Schroer ’16 graduated from Sewanee, The University of the South in 2020, majoring in Biology and minoring in Spanish. Hattie spent the last year working at TriStar StoneCrest Medical Center as an Administrative Care Technician. Upon applying to nursing school, her Sewanee advisor informed her about the Health Service Resource Administration’s (HRSA) Scholarship opportunities, which require commitment to providing care for underserved communities. In February 2021, Hattie was accepted into Vanderbilt’s two-year accelerated Master’s of Nursing program. Hattie spent time at Sewanee working in free medical clinics and is currently a Patient Assistant Program Coordinator in Vanderbilt’s free primary care clinic. Hattie earned the HRSA scholarship, which includes a full scholarship, living stipend, and additional school costs to nursing students who agree to work in a Health Shortage Facility in primary care after graduation for two years.

VISIONS WINTER 2022

Marion Boyd ’17 graduated from the University of Southern California with a degree in Communications at the Annenberg School for Communications and Journalism and a minor in Music Industry at the Thornton School of Music. During her time at USC, she was a member of Kappa Alpha Theta, studied abroad in London, and was in the Communication Honors Program. Marion completed a thesis entitled “The Underrepresentation of Females in the Music Industry,” highlighting the barriers women face while working in the music industry.

Her work experience includes interning at iHeartRadio in NYC for Katie Couric’s podcast “Next Question with Katie Couric,” working for BEKIND. by ellen for the Ellen Show this past year. Her plan is to stay in LA and work in the music industry.

Victoria Carlini ’17 graduated from the Catholic University of America with a major in Nursing and a minor in Spanish, a special program at Catholic called Spanish for Healthcare. She also ran track for four years. Vicky will be staying in Washington, D.C., as she has accepted a position at the Children’s National Hospital on the Hematology/Oncology Unit.

Mary Margaret Gayhardt ’17 graduated from Boston College and moved to New York City where she now works as a Research Associate at Dynamics Search Partners.

Kathryn Hallinan ’17 served as a missionary for a Catholic nonprofit organization called “The Culture Project” speaking to middle and high schools on human dignity, sexual integrity, and social media rooted in Saint Pope John Paul II’s teachings of the “Theology of the Body.”

Catherine Oliver ’17 is a Fund Investment Analyst at Hamilton Lane. Catherine graduated from Duke University with a degree in Economics and a minor in Education. Over her four years, she was involved in Project BUILD, a community service focused pre-orientation program which she participated in as a first-year and then returned to as a crew leader for two years and as the director of entertainment one year. Additionally, Catherine was a part of DUU, Duke’s largest event programming and media body. She was a first year intern, chair of the Special Events committee, chair of Last Day of Classes committee, and also the Chief Financial Officer for the organization during her senior year.

Casey Phelan ’17 double majored in Human Development and Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies with a minor in education at Binghamton University (BU). She was a Residential Advisor at BU and the Vice President of applications and training for her school’s mental health helpline called S.E.E.K. Casey is in

a program called Urban Teachers and is student teaching in an elementary school in Washington, D.C., while working on a Master of Education from Johns Hopkins University.

Tess Phillips ’17 graduated from the University of Notre Dame and is working in Manhattan as a Programming Coordinator at Overtime Sports.

Taylor Rush ’17 graduated from Gettysburg College with majors in Political Science & International Affairs. She is now attending Vermont Law School to obtain her Juris Doctor and her Master of Environmental Law and Policy.

Ashley Snyder ’19 joined the lacrosse team at St. Andrew’s and was nominated to be a captain and co-coach for the 2020-2021 and 2021-2022 school years. In preparation for her role, she decided to join the Scotland national lacrosse team and participated in the inaugural World Lacrosse Sixes event titled ’The Fly,’ a three-day event which trialed the proposed format of lacrosse, should it be added back into the Olympic Games. Ashley is studying psychology and is also a member of the St. Andrew’s Surf Club and a volunteer for the Wave Project, a UK-based charity which uses surfing as a way to provide therapy to those with mental health issues or special needs. 6

Recent Notre Dame graduates, including Sarah Jane Quigley ’18 (Syracuse), Tina D’Anjolell ’18 (Michigan), Lauren Curran ’19 (William & Mary), Meghan Mitchell ’20 (Villanova), Mandy McGurk ’19 (UPenn) and Emma Kichula ’19 (Michigan), came back to volunteer at Notre Dame summer camps in summer 2021.

Kate Biedermann ’18 graduated from Hamilton University and joined Partners Group in its financial analyst program. While at Hamilton, she was a history research assistant and minored in Economics.

Taylor Stokes ’18 became the first African American President of the student body at St. Joseph’s University! She is also the President of the Black Student Union. Taylor will graduate in May 2022 with a degree in criminal justice and ethics in the law. She plans to go to law school and study discrimination law. Her life goal is to develop her own diversity training program. 6

Katie Brennan ’19 is a junior at St. Joseph’s University, pursuing a degree in marketing. She is a social Media Marketing Intern at Coco + Dani.

2020s Lauren Gunn ’20 was one of four undergraduates selected as a Leadership Ambassador at Northwestern University (NU).

The Leadership Department at NU held a panel presentation in November 2021 for interested students and they asked Lauren to moderate the panel. Lauren is a second year student studying Theatre in Northwestern’s School of Communication. Alongside the Undergraduate Leadership Certificate, Lauren is pursuing a minor in Business Institutions and the Integrated Marketing Communications Certificate in the hopes of refining her leadership persona in both the theatre and business worlds. In addition to finding her onstage performing, Lauren is currently Secretary of Willard Residential College, Co-Director of Advertising for Northwestern’s 79th Annual Dolphin Show, Marketing Director of Northwestern’s Purple Crayon Players, and is a member of Northwestern’s Women in Business. 6

Lauren Curran ’19, a junior on William & Mary’s Field Hockey Team, was named StudentAthlete of the Week, presented by the Virginia Lottery as voted on by the Tribe’s fan base via social media polls. She led the Tribe’s field hockey team in goals and points for the season.

Last year, Lauren was named to the CAA Commissioner’s Academic Honor Roll.

27

ALUMNAE CLASS NOTES

Olivia Nast ’20 is a second-year student at Fordham University majoring in Film and Television and minoring in Marketing. Olivia writes for Fordham’s magazine and WFUV radio.

Claire Pinnie ’21 attends Columbia University and is a member of their Division-1 women’s soccer program. After a successful high school experience, graduating as valedictorian, and receiving countless academic awards, Claire plans to study Biomedical Engineering and pursue a career within the STEM field.

In Memoriam

Mary Livingood ’21 is a Markets, Innovation, and Design Major at Bucknell University.

1948

Mary “Gingie” McKernan ’48 June 5, 2020

Rose Consorto, mother of Barbara Consorto ’64, Carol Consorto ’64, Patricia Magyar ’66, and Geraldine Boyland ’69 August 11, 2021

1958

ARRIVALS: Alex Burtoft Gilroy ’04 and her family welcomed Hayden Ford Gilroy on August 6, 2021. She joins big sister, Rylan.

Shannon Killeen Schwartz ’04 and her husband, Michael, welcomed their daughter, Morgan Nancy Schwartz, on April 18, 2021.

Sam Carroll Harris ’05 and her family welcomed John Matthew “Jack” Thompson Harris on April 26, 2021.

Kelly Phelan Ciminera ’06 and her husband, Joe, welcomed a baby girl, Maisie Agnes Ciminera, on October 12, 2021.

Jackie McCabe Flanagan, PhD, ’06 and her husband, Patrick, welcomed a baby boy, Thomas McCabe Flanagan, on September 7, 2021.

Lauren Willis Cardone ’08 and her husband, Nick, welcomed a baby girl, Sophia Genevieve Cardone, on September 3, 2021.

Gabriela Benner Dokas ’08 and her husband, Michael, welcomed a baby boy, John “Jack” James Dokas, on June 13, 2021.

Jen Stipa Snopko ’08 and her husband, Alex, had a baby boy, Peter Lloyd Snopko, on August 8, 2020.

Kristen McNeill Nicholls ’11 and her husband, Graeme, welcomed Madison Quinn Nicholls on June 23, 2021.

28

Lizanne Hardegen Jones Sq ’58 August 12, 2021

Frances Trumpbour, grandmother of Vivienne Trumpbour ’20 August 27, 2021

1959

Regina Sweeney Pape Sq ’59, sister of Judith Riley Sq ’55 and Mary Clare Hogan ’65 October 25, 2021

Raymond P. Breck, grandfather of Lauren E. Gunn ’20 and Nicole R. Gunn ’22 September 28, 2021

1961

Joanne Panikowski, mother of Karen Panikowski Clark ’93 September 21, 2021

Loretta Mooney Polychronakis ’61 December 5, 2020

John Funkhouser, father of Kristine Funkhouser Nowak ’93 and Deanna Funkhouser Treter ’97 September 17, 2021

1963

Jeanne Bruno Sq ’63 August 10, 2021 Edward Hevener, father of Mary Baron ’71 June 25, 2021 Robert Bergan, father of Kimberly Bergan Devine ’76 and Colleen Bergan Sweeney ’78 and grandfather of Paige Devine ’07 July 7, 2021 Ann E. Connor, former faculty member (social studies) from 1987 to 2006 July 13, 2021 Lawrence V. “Larry” Hoffman, husband of Eleanor “Honey” Pfister Hofman ’64 July 7, 2021 Jax Thorburn, son of Meghan EnglishThorburn ’92 August 1, 2021 Robert F. Carroll, grandfather of Caroline Chaplin ’19 and Claire Chaplin ’22 August 2, 2021

Robert Pappano, father of Sophia Pappano ’21 October 21, 2021 Dr. Althea Cousins, mother of Dr. Kimberly Mary Cousins-Trent ’82 and Dr. Karen Ann Cousins-Washington ’88 October 9, 2021 Richard Francis Hamilton, father of Elizabeth Crowley ’84 and Gabrielle Hamilton ’81 September 6, 2021 Arnold Charles Schneider, Jr., grandfather of Katie Schneider ’14, Mikayla ’16, and Jessica ’19 August 2, 2021 Sean O’Hara, brother of Erin Kiley O’Hara ’09 and Mackenzie O’Hara ’08 November 20, 2021

Kairos, Ring Mass, Advent Angels, Spirit Day … each of these traditions is an essential element of what makes Notre Dame such a special place. In this season of giving, your donation to The Notre Dame Fund directly impacts each of the programs mentioned above and so much more.

Join the hundreds of donors who have already given and make your gift today!

Questions?

WAYS TO GIVE:

• www.ndapa.org/makeagift • VENMO @AcademyofNotreDamedeNamur

Contact Mimi Koelle at mkoelle@ndapa.org or call 610-971-4919.

Spread the Word About Notre Dame!

Share your Notre Dame story with interested families and help us find the next generation of Notre Dame graduates.

Here are some upcoming Admissions events to share with family, friends, and neighbors: ENTRANCE EXAM Saturday, March 5, 2022 Grade 5/6/7 students applying to Grade 6/7/8 for the 2022-2023 school year PRACTICE ENTRANCE EXAM Saturday, March 5, 2022 Grade 7 students applying to Grade 9 for the 2023-2024 school year

Visit ndapa.org/admissions for more information.

Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Southeastern, PA Permit No. 301

560 Sproul Road Villanova, PA 19085 610.687.0650

Parents of Alumnae

EVENTS

If this issue is addressed to your daughter who no longer maintains a permanent address in your home, please send the new address to: Alumnae Office, Academy of Notre Dame de Namur 560 Sproul Road, Villanova, PA 19085 or email: lpower@ndapa.org

February 25-26

Middle School Musical - Annie, Jr.

March 5 March 22 March 26

Middle School Entrance Exam & Upper School Practice Exam Alumnae Mentorship Event with Class of 2022 Father-Daughter Dance & Senior Dinner

April 8 April 28-29

Middle School Grandparents’ & Special Friends’ Day Spring Dance Performances

May May May May

ND Day of Giving Spring Concert Athletic Hall of Fame Ceremony Reunion 2022 (Classes ending in 2 & 7)

3 5 6 7

June June June June

1 2 3 4

Class of 2022 Alumnae Induction 8th Grade Graduation Class of 2022 Baccalaureate Mass Class of 2022 Commencement

FOLLOW WHAT’S HAPPENING AT NOTRE DAME: @NDAVillanova

@ND1856

Academy of Notre Dame de Namur

NDVillanova