A newsletter for the Alumnae Community
THE
REGINITE
Once a Saddlelite, Always a Saddlelite!
Members of the Class of 2009 at their 10-Year Reunion!
SPRING 2020
Mission Statement
Regina High School is a Catholic college preparatory school in the Franciscan tradition of peace, service, and respect for unique dignity of each person. Regina is committed to academic excellence, nurturing and guidance, and the moral, intellectual, physical, and personal growth of young women who face the challenges of today's world. THE
REGINITE
Our mission is embodied in our school motto: Transforming girls into young women of faith and vision.
ADMINISTRATION Mary Treder Lang President Ann Diamond '94 Principal Karen Forys Assistant Principal
Upcoming Events Many of our events have been rescheduled or cancelled due to COVID-19 and social distancing mandates. We are making every effort to communicate those changes to you. If you have questions about the new date for your event or refunds, please contact the person in charge of that event or the Alumnae Office.
July 30
2020 Commencement Class of 1970 Recognition Ceremony St. Isidore, Macomb, MI
August 6
Red Lights vs. Saddlelites 6:00pm Regina Alumnae vs. Warren Fire Department Softball Game Fundraiser
August 19
Mother's Guild Fashion Show Palazzo Grande, Shelby Twp.
5:30pm
August 29
Class of 2010 - 10-Year Reunion Bea's Detroit
TBD
September 19
Powderpuff Stevenson High School
TBD
September 20
Alumnae Mass & Brunch & Class of 1960 - 60-Year Reunion Regina High School
Kyle Smith Business Manager Alison Schaaf Admissions Director Colleen Reaser '03 Marketing Director Emily Frikken '09 Alumnae Relations Director Editor of The Reginite Diane Laffey Athletic Director Amy Dulgerian Guidance Counselor Director Nick Stann Campus Minister
6:00pm
10:00am
Be social with us! Regina High School 13900 Masonic Blvd Warren, MI 48088 586-585-0500 www.reginahs.com
To the Alumnae Community, Well, these last two months have certainly forced us to change many things about our lives. We have changed our daily routines, work schedules, family vacations, and personal milestones, like graduations or weddings. However, through this time at home, our thinking has changed as well, which has made us come to appreciate certain things that we may have taken for granted. One thing that has remained constant for me during this time at home, and strengthened even, is my faith in God and my faith in the Regina Community. In the last few weeks, I have seen our teachers completely rewrite their syllabi to adjust to an online schedule; I have seen faculty and staff drive all over the metro-Detroit area to surprise our Seniors with graduation signs; and I have seen our students, especially the Class of 2020, persevere through the schedule changes. I am now even more proud to be a Regina Alumna with everything the Alumnae Community has been doing as well. For one, Alumnae donated over $10,000 in the March Plaidness Giving Challenge to tuition assistance for the coming school year and to Gleaners Community Food Bank. But more importantly, Alumnae are putting themselves at risk working the front lines. Some have been diagnosed with COVID19, recovered, and then immediately went back to the hospital to serve. One Alumna even left the state of Michigan and her family to go where she was needed most. We have been highlighting all of these frontline workers in our #SaddleliteStrong campaign on social media, and let me tell you, these women are truly Saddlelite Strong, and I am so grateful for them. As these days at home continue, I ask that you all pray with me. I ask that you continue to pray for the Regina Faculty, Staff, Students and their Families. I ask that you pray for the Class of 2020, whose journey at Regina did not end the way that we were so fortunate to experience. I ask that you pray for the safety of all the essential workers, especially our Alumnae who are working the front lines. And lastly, I ask that you pray for all those who have fallen ill or who have lost their battle with COVID-19. I pray that the day where we can be together as a Regina Community is coming soon. Stay Safe. Once a Saddlelite, Always a Saddlelite!
Emily Frikken '09 Director of Alumnae Relations
Now Open: The Regina Chapel! The Harper Woods Regina Chapel is remembered fondly by many, especially by those who were married in it. We'd like to officially open our Warren Regina Chapel to help you make those same memories. We would love for you to use Regina's Chapel for a family wedding, a special Mass or Memorial Service for your family or friends, or a class reunion Mass & Brunch. As we are transforming girls into young women of faith and vision, we want to ensure that our alumnae know they always have a place to come back and celebrate their faith. For more details regarding using the Chapel, contact Emily Frikken '09 in the Alumnae/Advancement Office: efrikken@reginahs.com.
THA YO TO ALL OF OU
ON THE FRO
ANK OU UR ALUMNAE
ONT LINES
Class of 1978: Back-2-Back March Plaidness Champions! Our 2020 March Plaidness Alumnae Giving Challenge was conducted March 23rd-April 3rd, and the Class of 1978 finished as champions, again! This year, we had 35 classes and 160 alumnae participate to bring our grand total to $10,145.00, which exceeds last year's total by over $800. It proved that we Saddlelites are fierce competitors and we will come together to support something that will always hold a special place in our hearts, Regina High School. Congratulations to both 1978 and 1989 for their dedication throughout the entire tournament. Not only did they have the highest donation amounts, they also had the highest class participation - 1978 had 31 people donate on their behalf, and 1989 had 23! The Class of 1989 brought in a total amount of $1,935.00. However, the Class of 1978 claimed the title once again when they brought in a total of $1,425.00, JUST IN THE CHAMPIONSHIP ALONE! Their total donation amount was $3,985.00. We are grateful that from this challenge we are able to assist students so they may experience the Regina tradition as well as those affected by the coronavirus. While we continued with the challenge, we focused on those in need, especially during this difficult time, which holds so much uncertainty. The funds raised in this challenge are being dedicated to the Gleaners Community Food Bank. More than 300,000 children in Michigan rely on free and reduce-priced meals at school, and now they are going without. The funds will also go to Regina families who are demonstrating financial need, especially during this unprecedented time.
New Regina Apparel Styles! Visit our Webstore to Purchase your Alumnae Apparel!
https://mascela-2020springspiritwear.itemorder.com/sale 4
Introducing "The Saddle Shop"
Regina's New Student-Led Spirit Wear Store The official Grand Opening of the Regina Saddle Shop was in February - it was an eventful day and a huge success! The committee was created last semester to revitalize our spirit shop. The student volunteers started meeting on a weekly basis to brainstorm a new shop name, design new product, and discuss business and marketing strategies. The committee has been headed by Rene' Agostino Streberger '86, who owns Mascela Design, a custom apparel and promotional product company. The committee worked long hard hours to make sure that the store was ready to go with fresh new Regina apparel for the Grand Opening. To kick off the day, we were honored to have State Senator Paul Wojno speak to the entire school about business strategies and networking. He made a donation to The Saddle Shop, presented a proclamation to President Mary Treder Lang, and announced that he will be partnering with The Saddle Shop committee on upcoming events and business development. An official ribbon cutting ceremony took place and students were able to purchase their new swag! Thank you to all who contributed to this day and we hope to see you all at our new and improved Saddle Shop!
Students successfully checking out one of their first customers using their updated system.
Principal Diamond, President Treder Lang, Senator Wojno, and Rene' Streberger
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Alexis James '20 showing off her new Regina sherpa!
Red Lights vs. Saddlelites If you're a softball alumna and would like to play in our softball game fundraiser vs. the Warren Fire Department, please email efrikken@reginahs.com.
Lynn Hallman '15
Therapy Dogs Bring Calmness to Saddlelites
Lynn Harman '15 brought three special guests to Regina a few times over this past school year - her three therapy dogs: a mixed border collie, Shenzi, certified by the American Kennel Club, and golden retrievers Roughy and Joey, who are currently in training. The dogs visited classrooms where students had the opportunity to meet the dogs and learn about the benefits of service animals. Therapy dogs offer social support, reduce anxiety, elevate mood, and alleviate mental health disorders. These animals can be found at medical facilities, airports, courtrooms, schools, and libraries, sometimes wearing "Please Pet Me" patches to encourage people to interact with them. We're looking forward to having Lynn, Shenzi, Roughy, and Joey back next year to help our Saddlelites!
Holly Rabine Donoghue '02
Royal Oak's First Female City Engineer
Royal Oak Tribune
Holly Rabine Donoghue '02 was named the City Engineer for Royal Oak - the first female to ever hold the position. The focus of a city engineer's job is to deal with infrastructure - roads, water and sewer lines, sidewalks, streetscape and parks construction. Holly attended The University of Michigan and earned a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering with a concentration in Geotechnical Engineering. She has been working for Royal Oak as a civil engineer since 2012.
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To read the full article about Holly Rabine Donoghue, please see the Royal Oak Tribune website.
Alyia Marie Hakim '99
Appointed as Judge of the 39th District Court In November of 2019, Governor Gretchen Whitmer appointed Alyia Marie Hakim '99Â to the 39th District Court. An investiture was held on February 20th for her swearing in to office as a judge.
Alyia was joined on stage by her husband and her two daughters. *Photo Credit to C&G Newspaper
Prior to her appointment, Alyia was a partner attorney with Hakim & Hakim PLLC and counselor for Aloia & Associates PC. She specialized in criminal defense, estate planning, juvenile law and family law.
According to an article in C&G News, Alyia was quoted being thrilled to be in the position. "I really find it to be such a great responsibility, but I am so excited about it, because every day I feel like I am touching the lives of real people, touching real issues and making a difference just by listening to them. The concept of knowing that you can have such an impact on people just by hearing their voice and really speaking to them is awe inspiring. I love that my career has brought me here. I am definitely where I want to be."
To read the full article about Alyia Marie Hakim's investiture, please see C&G Newspapers' website.
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Ashley Ratusznik Sarnowski '09 Owner of Saint Clair Shores' SHORES NUTRITION Ashley Ratusznik Sarnowski '09Â is now the proud owner of Shores Nutrition - a healthy protein shake and energizing tea shop. They celebrated their Grand Opening this past Thanksgiving. At Shores Nutrition, customers come in and can order a combo, which includes a full meal-replacement shake and a natural energy boosting tea. The menu is a never-ending list of delicious and crave-worthy flavors like Red Velvet Cheesecake, Peanut Butter Cookie, and Ashley's favorite, S'more-eo. Shores Nutrition is also trying to partner with local businesses, including the Pure Barre Grosse Pointe location. Pure Barre comes to Shores on Wednesday evenings at 7pm for an hour-long workout and a shake/tea combo. Another very special thing about the entire crew over at Shores is Ashley with her husband Troy (DLS '09) and their Regina Alumnae working together. Besides Ashley, there are three son Leo at Shores Nutrition's Grand Opening. other Regina Alum on staff: Katelyn McGowan '14, Bobbie SymeAndrews '16, and Ashleigh Napiewocki-Demascio Larimer '02. When asked about her new opportunity, Ashley said, "I'm so happy to find something that's so rewarding in so many aspects. I not only get to help people choose a healthier lifestyle but also get to work around my family life and be able to watch my little guy grow. I'm so grateful for this opportunity and am blessed with all the support from my family and friends." Shores Nutrition is located at 23225 Nine Mack Dr., Saint Clair Shores. They are open everyday! Monday-Friday 7am-7pm, and Saturday and Sunday 9am-3pm. You can also follow Shores Nutrition on Facebook and Instagram.
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Alumnae Director, Emily Frikken '09, Stephanie Berlin '14, and Ashley's sister, Nicole Ratusznik '14, at one of the Pure Barre nights.
Pamela Klesko '01
Trades Wedding Gown for Medical Gown Pamela Klesko '01 and her fiancé, Antonin, had plans to be married in April 2020, but due to the pandemic, their plans were changed. Their story was recently published on Click on Detroit describing how she is hanging up her wedding gown but focusing on medical gowns instead. Her fiancé, unfortunately, contracted the coronavirus while working as a nurse at a local hospital. Thankfully, he recovered but returned back to work where he and other workers did not have the necessary protective equipment. Therefore, she used this time to teach herself how to make protective gowns for her fiancé and his coworkers. Pamela and Antonin hope to be married in August. It is so honorable that she faced this unfortunate circumstance of postponing her wedding to something so positive. She is truly Saddlelite Strong! To read the full article about Pamela Klesko, please see the Click on Detroit website.
Riley Reese '19 Not Your Typical Spring Break! This past spring break, Riley Reese '19 ditched the beach and decided to go on a volunteer trip instead. As a participant of Pay it Forward Tours, she traveled to 6 different cities, in 9 days with 40 strangers, doing a different volunteer service in each city: from playing basketball with special needs kids in Louisville, to removing invasive species in Nashville, writing letters to veterans in Knoxville, volunteering at a food bank in Charlotte, spending the day at a senior center in Myrtle Beach, and lending a hand at Habitat for Humanity in Charleston. Riley said, "It was an incredible, life-changing experience that I will never forget, especially the memories I made and the lessons I have learned, but most importantly the people I met. I have gained 40 new friends, and I wouldn’t trade them for 4 the world."
Jill Haines '84
Joins AOD's Department of Catholic Schools Jill Haines '84, J.D. and C.P.A., joined the Archdiocese of Detroit's staff in November 2019. Haines is the new Assistant Superintendent for School Finance and Government Programs for the Archdiocese, a newly created position. According to an article by Detroit Catholic, Haines will be responsible for overseeing the financial health and sustainability of the Archdiocese's 56 elementary schools and 9 high schools. In her role, she will work to help "assess schools' needs, finances and fiscal stability" as well as "look into new and existing government programs that haven't been tapped into in the past and hopefully bring more resources to the schools." Following graduation from Regina, she earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from the Detroit College of Business and a Doctorate of Jurisprudence from Wayne State University Law School. To read the full article about Jill Haines, please see the Detroit Catholic website.
Madeline Thibault '12
Grosse Pointe News' "Pointer of Interest" Madeline Thibault '12 and her musical talents were highlighted in the Grosse Pointe News in December. Madeline was named a "Pointer of Interest." After Regina, Madeline attended the University of Michigan where she received a Bachelor of Music and Master of Music degrees in vocal performance. She now works as a professional opera singer! Madeline has performed in "A Midsummer Night's Dream," "Dinner at Eight" and "The Magic Flute," but she considers one of her greatest accomplishments thus far to be her role as Clara in "The Light in the Piazza." She plans to move to New York City to be closer to the composers she has developed relationships with and to be 4 more centrally located to opportunities.
Danielle Turo Atkinson '05 Partner at Michigan Insurance and Financial Services Danielle Turo Atkinson '05 has been at Michigan Insurance and Financial Services since April 2014, and a partner in the company since May 2015. Her husband Paul and her three children moved to Gaylord in April 2016 to open a northern Michigan office for the company. Danielle said, "I feel extremely blessed that I have been able to keep in touch with so many of my fellow Regina Alumnae though my professional career. I have been fortunate to help support other ladies with their businesses, and I have been thankful for how many have trusted me in mine. I just recently relocated my insurance office to downtown Gaylord on Main St. and am excited to be right in the heart of the community. I have five women who work for me, including a fellow alumna's mother. The teamwork and leadership skills from playing sports, being involved in several clubs, and my academics I learned at Regina have led me to all my successes."
Anissa Hudy '85 Growing New Law Practice in Southeast Michigan
Due to Anissa Hudy's growing legal practice, she has recently partner with Deanna Waller-Bundy and formed a new law practice - Bundy Hudy Legal Services PLLC. Bundy Hudy Legal Services PLLC will help clients with bankruptcy filings and issues; leasing and contract drafting and negotiation; and small business startups and related issues. They currently have locations in Macomb, Oakland and St. Clair Counties and are working on a location in Genesee County and Wayne County.
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Class of 2009 10-Year Reunion The Class of 2009 celebrated their 10-year reunion at Punch Bowl Social in Detroit in November. The class had over 50 in attendance, where they could enjoy appetizers, drinks, and games. The staff at Punch Bowl did a great job of making us Saddlelites feel right at home. It was great to catch up and see what classmates have been up to over the past decade. The 2009 "Cobras" had a legendary time!
Sam Rachwal, Aliena Messina Cassady & Megan Hurley Block
Christina Pauken, Rebecca McLeod and Tracy Hrabovsky
Elizabeth Twigg Widdett, Ashley Maue, and Emily Frikken
Renee Cholyway and Carolyn Folk DeMates
Amanda Doyle, Louisa Stephens, and Abby Markielewicz
Emily Frikken and Melissa Raffoul Wensman (Class President who organized the reunion).
Tina Runyan, Meghan Connelly, Jenell Nadolski Gaddie, Marcus Stefanide, Shannon Holsbeke Stefanide and Nicole DeLaere
Caesar Sobredilla, Vince Huggan, Leslie Lim Sobredilla, Taylor McGillis Huggan, & Linda Pio Anayee
Life Expressions Decor
Amanda Mock and her team from Life Expressions Decor returned again this year for a fun painting activity! Alumnae chose their paint color and an expression to stencil on. Many chose to go with a holidaythemed expression, but there were many more to choose from! Some enjoyed it so much they went back to paint a second one!
Alumnae Christmas Party Our Annual Alumnae Christmas Party was held on Thursday, December 6th, in our school's cafeteria. It was wonderful to see over 140 alumnae in the building - some of whom have not seen our Warren location before. Alumnae had the opportunity to visit with classmates while enjoying a delicious salad bar, prepared by the Regina kitchen staff, participating in raffles, and painting a wood pallet sign. Most signs painted were perfect for the holiday season. We want to thank all the alumnae who were able to join us, as well as those who donated items for the event, especially Zayna David Salloum '01 of Zayna Bakes, for the amazing dessert cuffins! Stay tuned for information regarding next year's Christmas Party! We are looking into hosting another party where vendors and small businesses come to us. If you know a business who would be interested in coming, please have them contact the Alumnae Office.
Members of the Class of 1966
Marie Saracino Caruso '61 and Emily Frikken '09
Members of Regina's first Varsity Soccer Team!
Class of 2010 Alums: Amanda Amine, Hillary Aggeler, Annika Barkovic, and Kayla Rice
Regina Mundi High Tea On Sunday, February 9th, the Regina Alumnae Association hosted the 1st Regina Mundi High Tea. Attendees were able to decorate their table according to a theme of their choice. Guests browsed the different table settings, voted for best decor, and enjoyed a delicious three-course tea menu prepared by our wonderful kitchen staff. The Association also honored Carolyn Lekki '73 as the first recipient of the Distinguished Alumnae Award for her years of service and dedication to Regina High School. All proceeds from this event benefitted the Alumnae Association Scholarship Fund, which was created to help current and future Saddlelites receive a Regina education.
This group of lifelong friends won the category for Best Classic Tea Party decor. They chose to do a Breast Cancer Awareness theme in honor of their late classmate, Kathleen Gudenau Olechowski '90.
Members of the Class of 1961
Michalyn Gret '89 and her table won Most Unique. They chose the category, Detroit, and even some dressed the part with Detroit shirts/jerseys.
Alumnae Association Committee
Diane Laffey and Carolyn Lekki '73
1997 Graduates: Christina Plonka Rader, Samantha Gerlach Canfield and Catherine Diehl VanSice
Principal Ann Diamond '94Â and Carolyn Lekki '73
Alumnae Director Emily Frikken '09 presenting Carolyn Lekki '73 as the Distinguished Alumna Award Recipient.
Mary Catherine Kirouac Robinson '65, Pauline Kulwicki '68, and Judy Kirouac Hart '68
Liz Colpaert, Maureen Maiuri, Karen Jozefczyk and Linda Holt - moms of current Regina Saddlelites! Martha Orban Herringshaw '78, Carolyn Lekki '73, and Teresa Orban '75
THE SUCCESSFUL Stacy Ziarko '99 After spending over ten years working in the nonprofit sector, Stacy Ziarko '99 has started a new position that allows her to work with something that hits close to home - her hometown. Ziarko previously worked with St. Jude's Children Research Hospital and The Heat and Warmth Fund, but has recently been named the President and CEO of the Sterling Heights Regional Chamber of Commerce. She will be responsible for running events and programming as well as growing membership. Her predecessor is confident that with her passionate and engaging personality, she is a perfect fit for the role! Q: TELL US ABOUT YOUR EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND FOLLOWING REGINA. A: I am a proud graduate of the University of Dayton with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication - Go Flyers!
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Right: Stacy and colleagues at a Macomb County Chamber event. Far Right: Stacy at a ribbon-cutting ceremony for Party Dream Rental.
SADDLELITE
"I know it is my calling to work in ways that I Q: DESCRIBE YOUR CURRENT JOB POSITION can learn, lead AND HOW YOU ENDED UP THERE. A: I am currently the President and CEO of the Sterling Heights or serve in my community." Regional Chamber of Commerce. I have the privilege to spend my time supporting businesses and partners throughout Macomb County creating events that provide value to our Chamber members to help them grow their presence in our communities. I am the cheerleader for my hometown and all the exciting things happening in the county! I consider myself a professional fundraiser. Prior to joining the Sterling Heights Regional Chamber, I had the unique opportunity to spend twelve years raising funds for ALSAC/St. Jude Children's Research Hospital throughout the state and around the country, and The Heat and Warmth Fund (THAW) helping those struggling with their utility bills.
Q: WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BEGIN WORKING WITH NONPROFITS? IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU CONSIDERED GOING INTO? A:Â Growing up, I had a neighbor that planned special events for a local nonprofit, learning about his work first put the nonprofit bug in my head. After graduating college, the only thing I knew I wanted to do was plan special events for a nonprofit. I got to live out that dream at St. Jude and grew passionate about nonprofits and working for a cause. When you know you are working for something bigger than yourself, even the bad days aren't so bad. Q: WITH YOUR EXPERIENCE IN NONPROFITS AND FUNDRAISING, WHAT HAS BEEN MOST REWARDING BEING IN YOUR LINE OF WORK? A:Â I have been fortunate enough to physically see the impact of the dollars that I have helped raise over the years. From visiting St. Jude and knowing that I had a part in the research and the work that they were doing to help children battling cancer, to helping a senior get their utility bill paid were some of the most rewarding things I have been able to do. I know it is my calling to work in ways that I can learn, lead or serve my community.
1999 Regina Christmas Ball
Q: WHAT DO YOU DO IN YOUR FREE TIME? A: In my free time I like to read. I am an expert bargain shopper, and when the weather is warm I golf. I was fortunate enough to play golf for Regina as well as the University of Dayton. Q: AT THE BEGINNING OF THIS SCHOOL YEAR, YOU ALSO BECAME A MEMBER OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS FOR REGINA. WHY WAS IT SO IMPORTANT FOR YOU TO BE INVOLVED WITH YOUR ALMA MATER? A: I have very fond memories of my time at Regina and the relationships that I made during my time there. I want to make sure that Regina can still be here for 50 years from now.
"Regina taught me to think for myself, and allowed me to try new things. I was able to find out what my passions were and make lifelong friends."
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"1999 Graduates Taking Ma Stacy Ziarko, Monique Hayes Stant
Q: WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FONDEST MEMORIES OF REGINA? A: I played on the Regina Golf Team and some of my favorite memories are the golf trips we took. I was also active in the Drama Club and cannot see "Fiddler on the Roof" without thinking of my team on the side of the Regina stage.
acomb County by Storm" ton, and Alyia Hakim-Mehenna
Stacy Ziarko, Monique Hayes Stanton, Laura Hyke, Laura Napiewocki Beauregard, Christine Torrento Sagert, and Kate Babcock Kopchick
Q: WHAT PIECE OF ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO CURRENT SADDLELITES, EITHER PROFESSIONAL OR PERSONAL? A: My piece of advice to current Saddlelites would be to be yourself - do not try to change yourself or how you act for someone else. Find mentors and a tribe that support you and can be your honest sounding board. Q: WHAT LESSONS DID YOU LEARN FROM REGINA THAT YOU THINK HAVE HELPED YOU IN YOUR PROFESSIONAL CAREER? A: Regina taught me to think for myself and allowed me to try new things. I was able to find out what my passions were and make lifelong friends.
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Alumnae Updates
Kimberly Sikora Reed '00 and Eva Stephens Kent '11 with Alumnae Director Emily Frikken '09. Kim and Eva have been volunteering with our students in the Career Readiness Academy. The CRA is a seven-month program in which high school students and leaders of the Detroit Economic Club join together for monthly meetings and field trips that teach skills, which in turn will help students effectively navigate their high school journey to find greater success in the working world.
Shelby Liebler-Kukuk '02 gave birth to her first son, Harrison Joseph Kukuk, on December 9, 2019. Shelby and Harrison were in good hands! Harrison was delivered by former classmate, Dr. Lauren Mellor '02.
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Christina Pauken '09 was surrounded by her classmates (all 2009 grads) as she married her husband Jason in December: Renee Cholyway, Maria Vujic, Rebecca McLeod and Logan French Spencer. These 1986 alums have kept in touch and recently reunited for a Notre Dame football game, which brought back many memories of attending the Notre Dame HS games. Gail Sobczak Owens is married to Andrew and has 3 children: Macy, a freshman at Notre Dame University, CJ, a senior in HS, and Holly, a sophomore in HS. Gail is a stay-at-home mom and very active in volunteering for various organizations and coaching basketball. They reside in Mandevile, LA. Leslie Masters Backus is married to Dave and has 2 children. Blake is a freshman at Catholic Central and Gabby is an 8th grader. Kristie Bobowski Moonan has 2 daughters. Katlyn graduates in May 2020 with her Masters in Social Work from SVSU. Jenna is in the nursing program at the University of Michigan. Kristie continues to work as an Occupational Therapist/Certified Hand Therapist, and just celebrated 30 years in her profession. She resides in Davison, MI.
Trisha Butz Ballard '11 and her husband Chad celebrated the new year with the birth of their first child on January 9, 2020. Welcome to the world, Lila Rose Ballard!
Ashley Lumpkin '09 was accepted into the accelerated BSN program at the University of Detroit Mercy and graduated this past December. Congratulations on all your hard work!
Alumnae Updates
An Alumnae Basketball Game was held in December and the following alum were in attendance (left to right): Emily Frikken '09, Demita Clark Beard '97, Mallory Lueck '16, Teresa Diehl '16, Jill Wagner Diehl '06, Jessica Melendez '09, Riley Bobowski '19, Micah Carey '19, Maureen Diehl '19, Hannah Sabol '09, Alyssa McMurtry '17, Betsy Lueck '18, Megan O'Brien '17, Nicole Melendez Toth '06, Sara Cylkowski '19, Jessie Munson '17 and Gina Munson '15.
This group of friends proves that the Regina Sisterhood is not just four years but for life! And that bond doesn't just include them, but their moms too!
Danielle Strace '04, Liz Sepos '05, Melissa Ludeke '05, Andrea Adams '05, Sarah Frontczak Cook '05, and Melissa Helminiak Simmons '05.
Linda Pio Anayee '09 gave birth to her first child, Caroline, on October 3, 2019. They celebrated her Baptism and Confirmation on January 18, 2020. (In the Eastern Rite Churches, they celebrate both sacraments at the same time.) Cathy Resmer '93 (front, left) with wife Ann-Elise Johnson and children, Graham and Ivy Resmer, of Winooski, Vermont, after Graham's performance in the District 3 Music Festival. Chelsea Kinsman Smith '11Â married Edward on a beautiful winter day on January 18, 2020.
Nicole Melendez Toth '06Â brought her two daughters to see her alma mater for the Alumnae Basketball Game. She posed with them and her sister, Jessica Melendez '09.
Donna Frontczak (Sarah 2005 & Allison 2007), Anne Sepos (Liz 2005 & Ann Marie 1995), Debbie Ludeke (Melissa 2005 & Michelle 2001), Sheryl Ryan (Kelly 2005), and Marcy Kazmirowski (Victoria 2005).
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Alumnae Updates
Taylor Houlihan Barr '09 and her husband, Aaron, welcomed their first child, Connor Patrick, into the world on December 16, 2019.
On March 14, Santino Vitelli proposed to Teresa Sniezek '12. He surprised her in the backyard of her family’s home, while both his and her families watched the proposal from indoors. Following Regina, Teresa graduated from Wayne State in 2017. She is currently a Fashion Advisor at Chanel.
Chandler Missig '12 works for L'Anse Creuse Public Schools and recently gave a presentation in front of the Michigan Science Teachers Association. She was invited to a breakfast Saturday morning by the State of Michigan Association of Biology Teachers Board of Directors where she was informed that she is the newest member of their Board of Directors, of which there are only seven members! Congratulations, Chandler!
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Brenden asked Allison Marchese '09 to marry him on a cruise to the Bahamas. One night, after eating dinner and watching A Star is Born outside on the ship’s lower deck, they decided to head back to their room - however, this night, they took a more scenic route along the outside of the ship. After going up continuous flights of stairs, they ended up on the top deck of the ship under the Nassau stars, where Brenden got down on one knee and asked her to marry him. Dana Doyle Kies '07 and her husband Brian welcomed a baby boy, Dominic, on February 27, 2020.
Alexis Piper Orlando '10 gave birth to Gabriel Alexander on November 17, 2019. Husband Alex Orlando, by her side.
Alumnae Updates
Victoria Madek '09 married Anthony Venturini in February at Paradise Cove in Orlando, FL. The wedding weekend festivities also included a bachelorette party at Disney's Epcot! Ashley Peters '09 (left) and Tori's sister, Paige Madek '11 (right), were bridesmaids in her wedding. The Cody family at Lauren Cody '03's wedding! From left to right: Stephanie Cody '07, Michelle Cody Culling '09, Lauren Cody'03, longtime Regina teacher, Julie Cody, Elizabeth Cody Francek '05, and Emily Cody Uppleger '02.
Rachel Berishaj Kassin '03 and her husband Jerry welcomed their second child into the world on April 21, 2020 a healthy baby girl named Grace. Here she is pictured with her big sister, Hannah. Melissa Raffoul Wensman '09 and husband Sam welcomed their first child on February 24, 2020, Emory Marie. It was a wonderful birthday gift as now Melissa and her daughter share a birthday!
Eva Abiragi '10 and Allen Haddad were married on August 17, 2019, which Eva says was the best day of their lives! Currently, they live in Ann Arbor while her husband finishes his residency (in Anesthesia). He will begin his fellowship (in cardiac anesthesia) at the end of June at UofM. Eva works as a physician assistant at Beaumont Urgent Care and Henry Ford Pain Management Clinic. Currently, her clinic is closed due to COVID-19. She has volunteered to be redeployed to work at Henry Ford Main Hospital ED, specifically with COVID patients, where she has been working for the past month. Her husband is working at UofM Hospital in their COVID ICU. Eva says, "It’s been a crazy first few months of marriage since we’ve both been tirelessly working while trying to maintain distance from one another in an attempt to not infect one another should we get it from our line of work!" We pray for both of their safety!
Want to be featured in The Reginite? We would love to feature you in our next issue of The Reginite! Please email any professional or 54 personal accomplishments to Emily Frikken '09 at efrikken@reginahs.com.
In Memoriam 1960
1966
Jacqueline Lipke Kulchycki Paula Pfister Thompson
Carol Aversa Susan Short Critchfield Kathy Brinker Dekovich Diane DeMario Linda Deprez Janica Sobczak DiVergilio Sandy Erchul Elkins Patricia Gee Mary Jane D'Orso Haener Grace Branceleone Haremza Suzanne Szep LaFave Diane Schuster Mooradian Kathleen Murphy Karen Pazin Pochert Linda Mioduski Nagle Louise Matiyou Schaeffler Pamela Dubyk Spriet Mary Bessette Weinert
1961 Patricia Siebert DeMeyer Irene Mollicone Iacobelli Kathleen Howell Mackstaller Sharon Hertzberg Saxman
1965 Bridget Accetta Madelena LaMonica Borza Diane Dennis Barbara Schoenherr Franczyk Sandra Rousseau Huntley Kathleen Wentzel Marshall Sandra Oleksiak Linda Preslawski Anita Lendzion Spietz Rose Brems Traver
Eternal rest, grant unto her O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon her. May she rest in peace. Amen.
1967
1978
Janice Hickner Corteville Veronica VanDoorne Guzinski Diann Kirouac
Laura Kocis Cadieux
1969 Sharon Schulte Maureen Conlogue Trybus Lynda Goodrich Wickersham
1971 Denise Zielinski Dengel Judith Zajac Edwards Carla Kaczmarek
1976 Kathleen Lesnau McGeath
1983 Noelle Graf Vieu-Kitchens
1985 Mary Beth Lenard Holewinski Margaret Gesing Jarema Patricia Krease Monks
In our Spring issues, we will publish updated lists of those who have passed. This list includes all the names that have been reported to the Alumnae Office. If you would like to add a name to our alumnae memorial book , please contact us. *We sincerely apologize if there are any errors in our database.
Current Saddlelite Updates
REGINA & DLS WITH ARCHBISHOP VIGNERON
ENSEMBLE SPREADS CHRISTMAS CHEER
In December, the Regina Choral Ensemble sang carols on the Grand Staircase at the Fox Theatre and made a guest appearance as the choir in the actual performance of the Moscow Ballet's Great Russian Nutracker.
Some of our students, along with Campus Minister Nick Stann and President Mary Treder Lang, joined students from other Catholic schools to celebrate Mass with Archbishop Vigneron at the Cathedral of the Most Blessed Sacrament. Our Regina students read the petitions.
THE MAGIC OF HOPE
REGINA "SHARK TANK" Students in Honors Economics channeled their entrepreneurial spirit and gave "Shark Tank" sales pitch presentations. They explained their business plans and also practiced their public speaking skills.
Anthony Grupido came and spoke to Regina about mental health and wellness, coping skills, and suicide prevention. Mr. Grupido uses magic to build awareness and improve the quality of life for those dealing with mental health issues. His presentation, The Magic of Hope, is specifically designed to reinforce a relationship between students and their counselors and increase mental health literacy in the school culture.
MICHIGAN COUNCIL OF WOMEN IN TECHNOLOGY Congratulations to Junior Elena Zakolski and Sophomore Alexandra Randall for earning Honorable Mention in the High School Beginner's Division in the Michigan Council of Women in Technology Foundation 2019 Website Design Competition! They were tasked with developing a website for a tech product of service, imaginary or real, that impacts the world in a positive way. They created a website called Bingo, a manufacturer and distributor of robots specializing in therapy and mental health.
JUNIOR RETREAT
MARCH FOR LIFE
In January, Miss Ackerman, Regina Theology teacher, traveled to Washington, D.C. with Regina students for the Annual March for Life.
SOPHOMORE DAY
Our Class of 2022 at their Sophomore Day, a longstanding tradition. This Class of 2022 also honored Sr. Hyacinth by naming her as their Class Patron.
Some of our juniors traveled to Maple Park Montessori to observe the classroom, read to children, participate in various activities, and reflect as a group with prayer. The Montessori's director engaged in a personal faith sharing with our students. Regina has been offering this retreat trip to Maple Park for 25 years!
Current Saddlelite Updates
REGINA PLAYERS PRESENT "ANNIE"
In December, the Regina Players performed their production of "Annie, the Musical!" Congratulations to the cast, crew, and orchestra for an absolutely outstanding show. We are so proud of our talented Regina girls and students who joined them on stage and in the orchestra from De La Salle Collegiate, U of D Jesuit High School and Academy, and various grade and middle schools.
SADDLEBOTS AT MACOMB DISTRICTS
In March, the Regina Saddlebots - FIRST Robotics Team 7188 placed #21 of 38 teams in the FIRST in Michigan Macomb District Tournament. Had the climbing mechanism that the team created for the robot functioned as planned, the Saddlebots would have fared better in match play and likely caught the eyes of the top-ranked teams. The team is small but mighty and has put in long hours to build the robot and work on their skills.
WOMEN IN SPORTS LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE
Ms. Lekki, Ms. Laffey, Ms. Frikken and a group of multi-sport athletes attended the MHSAA Women in Sports Leadership Conference. The theme for the conference was "The Courage to Lead" and the opening address was delivered by twotime Olympic women's soccer gold medalist, Lindsay Tarpley. She spoke abut setting high standards and challenging yourself to be a leader throughout life.
Saddlelites Sign Letters of Intent
RILEY BRENGMAN OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY ICE HOCKEY DIVISION 1
KATY FESKORN WINTHROP UNIVERSITY SOCCER DIVISION 1
ALANA LARUE NORTHWOOD UNIVERSITY SOFTBALL DIVISION 2
CELESTA PAOLUCCI SAINT ANSELM COLLEGE ICE HOCKEY DIVISION 1
REGINA HIGH SCHOOL 13900 MASONIC BLVD. WARREN, MI 48088
OVER THE PAST 64 YEARS, REGINA HIGH SCHOOL'S MISSION HAS BEEN TO EDUCATE THE WHOLE GIRL - MIND, BODY, AND SOUL - FOR LIFE'S FUTURE CHALLENGES. AS A SINGLE-GENDER SCHOOL, WE CREATE A SAFE AND COMFORTABLE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT THAT EMPOWERS YOUNG WOMEN TO TAKE ON LEADERSHIP ROLES AND EXCEL IN OUR RIGOROUS CURRICULUM. ReginaAlumnaeAssociation
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