Heart to Heart: Summer 2023

Meeting the moment:

Welcoming the class of 2027!

A Message From Kristin Lynch Graham

Every school year creates a new moment. New moments deserve to be met with unique perspectives and insights. This year, Sacred Heart Academy is preparing to “meet the moment” as a community of faith and hope. SHA’s community is so special. Together, we face highs and lows and continue to stay focussed on our mission to educate compassionate and confident girls rooted in the gospel of Jesus, who use their academic and leadership skills to address the needs of our time.

As you know, SHA was excited to announce the appointment of Dr. Teresa Prendergast as the next principal. Following her unexpected passing in June 2023, the entire SHA community mourned with the Prendergast family, especially her daughters, Kaitlin ’10 and Megan ’12

The big dreams that Dr. Prendegast had for SHA are now ours to advance. To that end, SHA re-launched a principal search. We have put our energy on the identification of a qualified and mission-based education leader. We will make right decisions, not fast decisions. Together, we will find the best way forward for SHA, and be ready to welcome the incoming Class of 2027.

This class of talented young women has thoughtfully been learning about SHA through expanded admissions programs all year. They have been actively involved in summer camps and summer programs at SHA. There is a great energy building among them, and we can’t wait to welcome them officially to SHA at Orientation this August.

We look forward to meeting you at many special moments throughout the year. Whether you are celebrating an alumnae reunion, visiting SHA as a prospective parent or returning to campus for a visit, we are always happy to welcome you home!

The Class of 2027 is a talented group of 168 young women from all over Long Island. They hail from 60 different schools and 21 school districts.

Kristin Lynch Graham President

Upcoming Alumnae SHAdow Dates

October 2 & October 10

55% come from Catholic elementary schools, 37% from public schools, and 8% from Charter/Independent/ Private schools & other Christian Academies.

If you are an alumna whose daughter is interested in attending SHA, we have arranged special SHAdow days just for you.

To learn more, email admissions@sacredheartacademyli.org

The 71st Commencement festivities began with a baccalaureate mass, celebrated by Monsignor Thomas Harold on Friday, June 2 at St. Anne’s Church in Garden City. The Class of 2023 and their families gathered together as Father Tom congratulated the graduates and thanked their parents for entrusting their daughters to Sacred Heart. He encouraged the graduates to hold onto each other’s hands and to welcome the light that faith brings you.

Susan Walsh ’80, Assistant Vice President/ Executive Director of Annual Giving at Princeton University, delivered the commencement address. Ms. Walsh is a member of the Class of 1980, the first class to graduate from the Sister Virginia Crowley Theatre! Following SHA, Ms. Walsh graduated Fordham University and has enjoyed an esteemed career at Princeton for over 25 years. She is the first woman and non-alumna to hold her position. She had two themes for her address to the graduates: Be Brave and embrace life as a squiggly line.

“It was a brave choice to attend SHA, to leave your elementary school and chose to come to an all-girls school where you receive a Catholic education, in a place where you can lead, and be who you are. It also sometimes takes bravery to be kind,” Ms. Walsh encouraged

the girls to offer their hands to someone who needs it.

Ms. Walsh reminded the graduates that life’s journey does not necessarily follow a straight line. Life is often a squiggly line. There will be loss, challenges and hard times. From each of these experiences, you will receive strength and grace that will bring you joy and happiness. She also added that your Sacred Heart friends will be along for the squiggly line. Every line on your journey is an opportunity for growth.

Three outstanding members of the Class of 2023 addressed their class at commencement.

Tiffany Felix, one of this year’s salutatorians, spoke about finding beauty in the most unlikely places. “Sustained by the power of the mission of the Sisters of St. Joseph and fortified by our

faith in our loving God, we are prepared to have our plans upended and grow from the challenges we face.”

Felix encouraged her classmates to be open to the plans that God has for each of them and to embrace all of the choices and opportunities in their lives. Immensely proud of her class, Felix is hopeful to see her classmates competing in the Olympics, performing on Broadway and making the world a better place.

Kaitlin Wing, salutatorian, equated her class to her favorite subject, history. Recalling some memorable events from their past four years, Wing explained that the Class of 2023 made history with their friends, experiences and the impact they leave at SHA. She cannot wait to see the history that the Class of 2023 makes.

Isabel Louis, this year’s valedictorian, encouraged her classmates to be decisive, to live in the moment, to be present and above all, be kind.

Louis explained kindness as “a reflection of God’s love for us through us projected onto another.” She encouraged her classmates to be comfortable with the uncomfortable and not to be afraid to explore, because exploring the unfamiliar allows you to flourish.

Salutatorian Tiffany Felix ’23

Salutatorian Kaitlin Wing ’23

commencement at sacred heart academy

“It is crucial to keep the teachings of Sacred Heart in mind, your needs should never be silenced and the person who understands you the best is yourself, so never be afraid to stand up for and communicate your ideas to others.”

SHA wishes the Class of 2023 the very best. Know that you always have a home on Cathedral Avenue. We cannot wait to see their continued impact on the world .

Keynote Speaker for the Class of 2023

Sue grew up in Stewart Manor and graduated from Sacred Heart Academy with the Class of 1980—the first class to graduate from The Sister Virginia Crowley Theatre!

At SHA, Sue was involved in student government, theater, and Sports Night (now known as Red & Gold). She received a B.A. in Communications from Fordham University in 1984 and was awarded the inaugural Fordham College Alumni Association

Award presented to the graduating senior who exemplifies the Fordham spirit of excellence in academics, service, and extracurricular achievement.

Sue’s early career was wide-ranging including stints as an NBC Page and Casting Assistant for

commercials. Her development and fundraising career launched as she returned to Fordham as an Assistant Director of Alumni Relations. She went on to serve as Senior Development Associate at The Metropolitan Museum of Art and Director of Leadership Gifts at United Way of New York City. For the past 25 years, Sue has enjoyed an estimable career at Princeton University. She is the first woman and first non-alum appointed Assistant Vice President/Executive Director of Annual Giving at Princeton.

She leads a team that raises over $70 million a year for the University with one of the highest alumni giving rates in the country.

…but her greatest joy has been raising her two amazing daughters, Elizabeth and Caroline.

Valedictorian Isabel Louie ’23

Patricia (Winship ’58) & Gabriella Hohmann ’23

SUSAN WALSH ’80

COMMENCEMENT 2023

Scholarships Senior & awards

2022 2023

President’s Award for Educational Achievement

(Sponsored by NASSP)

Presented by S. Jean Amore, CSJ. (Certificates & Pins)

• Kayla Avin

• Tina Carter

• Lillian Dempsey

• Christina Diamond

• Kaitlin Donopria

Mock Trial Awards

Presented by Dr. Mary Ellen Minogue (Gavels)

• Kaitlin Wing, Captain

• Cara Carbone

Tulane University Book Award (and Certificate)

Presented by Ms. Mary Christy

• Carli LiBassi

Rensselaer Medal

Presented by Mrs. Elizabeth Pfeifer-Servedio (Letter and Certificate)

• Qiana Felician

Scholar Art and Writing Awards by the Alliance for Young Arts & Writers

Presented by Mrs. Connie Rotondi (Bookmarks and Pins)

• Rogan Buckley

• Brigid Byrnes

• Kimberly Wong

• Kimberly Gingrass

• Madison Grgas

• Lauren Jones

• Stevie Lewis

• Courtney Martin

• Tiffany Felix

• Abigaille St. Fort

Triple C Award

Presented by Mrs. Connie Rotondi (Certificates)

• Grace LoCasto

• Kathleen Mooney

College Acceptances

Adelphi University*

American University*

Arizona State University

Art Academy of Cinicinnati

Assumption University*

Auburn University*

Belmont University*

Boston College

Boston University

Brown University*

Bucknell University

Cabrini University*

California Institute of the Arts*

California Polytechnic State University*

Charleston Southern University

Clark University*

Clemson University

Coastal Carolina University

College of Charleston*

College of Mount Saint Vincent*

College of The Holy Cross*

Cooper Union

Cornell University

CUNY Baruch College

CUNY Brooklyn

CUNY Hunter College

CUNY John Jay College

CUNY Macaulay Honors College

CUNY Sophie Davis School of Biomedical Education

CUNY Queens

Delaware Valley University*

Depauw University*

Dickinson College*

Dominican University*

Drexel University*

Duquesne University*

Elon University*

Emerson College

Endicott College*

Fairfield University*

Fairleigh Dickinson University*

Five Towns College Flagler College*

Florida Atlantic University*

Florida Gulf Coast University

Florida Southern College

Florida State University

Fordham University*

Fort Lewis College

Franklin & Marshall College*

Fredonia University

Georgetown University

George Washington University*

Georgia Institute of Technology

Gettysburg College*

Hartwick College

High Point University*

Hilbert College*

Hofstra University*

Illinois Institute of Technology

Indiana University-Bloomington*

Iona University*

Ithaca College*

Jacksonville University*

James Madison University

Johnson & Wales University*

Lafayette College

LaGuardia Community College

Lasell University

Lehigh University

Le Moyne College*

LIM College*

London South Bank University

Long Island University - Brooklyn*

Long Island University - C.W Post*

Louisiana State University*

Loyola University Chicago*

Loyola University Maryland*

Lynn University*

Manhattan College*

Manhattanville College

Marist College*

Marymount Manhattan College*

Marymount University*

Mass. Institute of Technology

Mercy College*

Miami University*

Michigan State University*

Milwaukee School of Engineering

Misericordia University*

Molloy University*

Mount Saint Mary College*

Muhlenberg College*

New York Inst. of Technology*

New York University*

North Carolina State University

Northeastern University *

Town of Hempstead Community Service and—Excellence Award

Presented by Mrs. Connie Rotondi (2 Blue Folders, Letter, and Certificate)

• Kate Kilduff

Math Awards

Presented by Mrs. Connie Rotondi (Certificates)

• Jocelyn Brice

• Qiana Felician

• Tiffany Felix

• Sophia Koutsourakis

Daughters and Sons of Italian Heritage Lodge #2428 in Memory of Nicola Firscerna and the David III Scholarship is awarded to:

Presented by Mrs. Connie Rotondi (Mini bouquet)

• Allyssa Illiano

This special award was presented to Alyssa on June 17th at a wonderful event in New York

COMMENCEMENT 2023

Office of the NY State Comptroller Achievement Award

Presented by Mrs. Connie Rotondi (Certificate)

• Catalina Lucia Ramirez

The Capable Vision Award

• Kaylee Palmer

US. Air Force Academy

• Catherine Dean

SHARE Award

• Abigail Phillips

Lead with Heart Award

• Madeleine Graham

Catherine Rose Miller Award

• Madelyn Maldonado

AP Capstone Diplomas

These eight (8) girls have already passed AP Seminar & AP Research + an additional four (4) AP classes with a score of 3 or better in all six (6) courses.

• Gabrielle Augustin

• Naomi Berry

• Cara Carbone

• Madeleine Graham

• Carli LiBassi

• Catalina Ramirez

• Julia Revill

• Kayla Romano

AP Capstone Certificates

These eight (8) girls have passed both AP Sem & AP Research + two (2) or three (3) additional AP courses. They are likely to earn Capstone Diplomas in late July after their senior year AP exams are graded.

• Rogan Buckley

• Abigail Germano

• Kyra Ho-Shing

• Isabel Louie

• Lauren McCarthy

Pace University*

Parsons School of Design*

Paul Smith’s College

Pennsylvania State University*

Pepperdine University

Point Park University

Providence College*

Purdue University

Quinnipiac University*

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Rider University

Rochester Inst. of Technology*

Roger Williams University*

Rollins College

Sacred Heart University*

Saint Anselm College

Saint Elizabeth University*

Saint Joseph’s University*

Saint Michael’s College*

Saint Peter’s University*

Salve Regina University*

San Diego State University

Seton Hall University*

Siena College*

Skidmore College*

Southern Methodist University

Spelman College

St. Bonaventure University*

St. John’s University*

St. Olaf College*

Stevens Inst. of Technology*

Stevenson University*

Stonehill College*

SUNY Albany*

SUNY Binghamton

SUNY Brockport

SUNY Buffalo

SUNY Canton

SUNY Cortland

SUNY Delhi

SUNY Farmingdale

SUNY Fashion Inst. of Technology

SUNY Geneseo*

SUNY Nassau Community College

SUNY New Paltz

SUNY Old Westbury

SUNY Oneonta*

SUNY Potsdam

The Crane School of Music

SUNY Purchase*

SUNY Stony Brook*

Susquehanna University*

Syracuse University*

Temple University*

Texas Christian University

Texas Tech University

The Catholic Univ. of America*

The College of New Jersey*

The Ohio State University

The School of Ballet Hartford

The United States Air Force Academy

The University of Alabama

The University of Arizona*

The University of Mississippi

The University of NC at Chapel Hill

The University of Rhode Island*

The University of Scranton*

The University of Tampa*

The University of TennesseeKnoxville*

The University of Vermont

Tulane University

University of Westminster-London

University of Central Florida

University of Colorado-Boulder*

University of Connecticut*

University of Dayton

University of Delaware*

University of Denver*

University of Florida

University of Georgia

University of Hartford

University of Hawai’i-Manoa*

University of Maryland

• Ella Novack

• Magdalena Sammut

• Olivia Shuff

• Kathleen Tevlin

University of Mass. Amherst*

University of Mass. Boston*

University of Miami

University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

University of Minnesota

University of New Haven*

University of Notre Dame

University of Pittsburgh

University of Rochester*

University of SC-Columbia*

University of South Florida

University of the Arts London

University of Virginia*

University of Wisconsin - Madison

Ursinus College*

Utica University

Vanderbilt University

Vermont State University*

Villanova University

Virginia Tech

Wake Forest University

Wellesley College

West Virginia University

Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Xavier University*

*Scholarships and awards given.

COMMENCEMENT 2023

Senior Week

The Senior Class celebrated the end of their time on Cathedral Avenue in style! Many thanks to the generosity of parents, family and friends who contributed to the Senior Class Gift campaign. Throughout the month of May, seniors enjoyed a pizza and ice cream truck. On the last day of classes, they enjoyed 2023 pretzels at the Clap Out. We will miss the Class of 2023 and wish them luck on their next chapter!

COMMENCEMENT 2023 generations of Graduates

A group of 19 alumnae now share the title of SHA alumna with their daughters. Congratulations to these generations of graduates!

Samantha, daughter of Kathleen (Dean ’83) Agoursalidis

Noelle, daughter of Melissa (Jacob ’92) Coyne

Bridget, daughter of Ann Marie (Dugan ’90) Cullen

Megan, daughter of Christina (Donnelly ’87) Gallagher

Madison, daughter of Teresa (Corcoran ’88) Grgas

Noelle, daughter of Tracy (Hayes ’85) Jordan

Amelia, daughter of Marybeth (Burnell ’88) Kearns

Kate, daughter of Jean (Caruso ’89) Kilduff

Paulette, daughter of Lou-Anne (Catalfamo ’92) Leune

Grace, daughter of Patsy (Savage ’85) LoCasto

Kiely, daughter of Jenifer (Nolan ’89) Lynch

Lauren, daughter of Renee (Bianco ’88) Marquardt

Marilyn, daughter of Eileen (Graham ’91) Mazaroski

Lauren, daughter of Maria (Messina ’85) McCarthy

Keely, daughter of Eileen (Lynch ’84) O’Hara

Emily, daughter of Cristin (Padgett ’91) Ryan

Molly, daughter of Mary Beth (Bennett ’92) Stines

Kerry, daughter of Christine (Walsh ’89) Tallon

Christine (Walsh ’89) and Kerry Tallon with Susan Walsh ’80

Melissa (Jacob ’92) and Noelle Coyne

Kathleen (Dean ’83) and Samantha Agoursalidis

Eileen (Lynch ’84) and Keely O'Hara

Marybeth (Burnell ’88) and Amelia Kearns

2023 Senior Luncheon Alumnae Moms and Daughters

Tracy (Hayes ’85) and Noelle Jordan

Jenifer (Nolan ’89) and Kiely Lynch

Renee (Bianco ’88) and Lauren Marquardt

Eileen (Graham ’91) and Marilyn Mazaroski

Mary Beth (Bennett ’92) and Molly Stines

Lou-Anne (Catalfamo ’92) and Paulette Leune

Cristin (Padgett ’91) and Emily Ryan

Teresa (Corcoran ’88) and Madison Grgas

Jean (Caruso ’89) and Kate Kilduff

Patsy (Savage ’85) and Grace LoCasto

Two SHA Seniors Win $40,000 Scholarships from Amazon

Not all Amazon packages are created equal. Just ask Hilary Rojas Rosales ’23 and Shadia Suha ’23, seniors at Sacred Heart Academy (SHA) in Hempstead, New York. Returning home from school one afternoon, both young women were surprised to open an Amazon package naming them as recipients of the 2023 Amazon Future Engineer (AFE) Scholarship— a $40,000 tuition scholarship ($10,000/year) toward an undergraduate degree in engineering or computer science. They also were offered a guaranteed, paid 12-week summer internship at Amazon after completing their freshman year of college. While working at Amazon, AFE interns work on a software or hardware engineering team and pair up with a co-intern, manager, and mentors to build projects that have a real impact on Amazon customers. Interns get to work on some of Amazon’s groundbreaking technologies and core platforms, like Alexa voice technology, Amazon Web Services, and the Amazon retail platform.

Hilary, a Hempstead resident, has always had a passion for computer science and plans to attend SUNY Binghamton’s Watson College of Engineering and Applied Science in fall 2023. Aside from the challenging science and research program, Hilary says that she has made new

Faculty Highlights

friends every single year at SHA and is quick to point out that she still finds time to take care of two parakeets, Bella, and Jacob. Hilary and two teammates competed at Hackathon at St. John’s University on April 29th.

Shadia, a West Hempstead resident, also cites the lifelong friendships that she has made at Sacred Heart and says that the research she was able to do at SHA through the Brookhaven National Laboratories reinforced her passion for the study of medicine through engineering and robotics. She plays violin, piano and guitar for fun. Shadia will attend Wellesley College in the fall.

Sister Jean Amore, CSJ, Ed.D., principal at Sacred Heart, shared that, “Not only are Hilary and Shadia intelligent, hardworking young scholars, they lead with compassion, courage, and commitment. Sacred Heart Academy is so proud of them.”

Sacred Heart Academy’s focus in science and math prepares students to apply their scientific knowledge to real-world challenges. Both young women have spent a great deal of time in the Science Research Center at Sacred Heart Academy, a state-of-the-art facility, designed specifically for student-developed research projects.

Amazon Scholarship recipients applied for the opportunity and were selected based on academic achievement, demonstrated leadership, community involvement, work experience, future goals, and financial need. Amazon surprised four hundred students with news of the award. In addition to their project work, Amazon Future Engineer interns get exposure to the Amazon business through fireside chats with senior leaders, deep dives from technology teams, and an annual Alexa skills-building hackathon.

“Every year, I continue to be inspired by our scholarship recipients’ academic achievements and drive to use their problem-solving abilities to build solutions for their communities,” said Victor Reinoso, global director of Philanthropic Education Initiatives at Amazon. “With students from historically underrepresented and underserved communities representing only 18% of CS [computer science] bachelor’s degrees, we believe that connecting students to computer science education and opportunities helps create a more equitable and inclusive future, across all industries and sectors, for generations to come.”

The future is extremely bright for Hilary, Shadia, and their classmates. The entire SHA community is very proud of all they have accomplished.

S. Jean with Hilary Rojas Rosales ’23

S. Jean with Shadia Suha ’23

Farewell retiring faculty

Gina Christel Receives the Stu Agins Memorial Service Award

Gina Christel, Assistant Principal for Academics, received the Nassau Counselors Association’s (NCA) prestigious Stu Agins Memorial Service Award on June 1, 2023. The award is given to an individual who has been involved in service to the NCA and to the counseling community. Mrs. Christel was nominated by her peers in education in recognition for her over 40 years of work in the counseling community.

Mrs. Christel has brought her passion and commitment to many positions within NCA: Conference Committee Chair, Secretary, Program Chair, President Elect and most recently, President. She has also been an Executive Board Member and NYS High School delegate representative of the NYS Association for College Admission Counseling.

A committed volunteer, advocate and a mentor to future school counselors, Mrs. Christel’s giving spirit is rooted in empowerment and immense compassion. Congratulations on a well-deserved recognition!

Elizabeth Pfeifer-Servedio has been guiding and directing students at SHA for 21 years.

Tony Korec has been teaching theology for 23 years.

Sister Jean Amore, CSJ has been leading with heart and mission for 12 years at SHA.

Mary Chekow has been dancing at SHA for 35 years.

emerging leaders

INSTITUTE

Take The Lead

18 rising sophomores participated in this summer’s Emerging Leaders Institute. These enthusiastic young leaders were nominated by teachers to participate in the program which provided four days of experiential learning taking them to a college campus, corporate offices, a leading hospital, and a farm.

The week began at Fordham University’s Lincoln Center campus where TV commentator and columnist, Mister Manners, Thomas P. Farley led a dining etiquette and networking luncheon with SHA alumnae followed by a college admissions session and campus tour. Alexa Vojvodic ’10 hosted a morning of innovation

and discovery at Nike. Kelsie Callahan ’18 and Debbie Donohue P ’00 shared insights and amazing products from Steve Madden. On a visit to the Sisters of St. Joseph’s Brentwood campus, the students learned from Sister Karen Burke CSJ about the Congregation’s impressive sustainability and ecology initiatives. Northwell Health and its team, Renee (Janicki ’96) Frawley, Claire Durecko ’03, Michelle (McAree ’83) Freel P ’13, Brian O’Neill P ’20, generously sponsored a fullday of on-site learning as well as the concluding dinner, where parents were invited to witness the presentation of completion certificates for their daughters.

President Kristin Graham says, “From its inception, this program was a perfect example of what differentiates SHA’s commitment to ‘lead with heart.’ Alumnae, parents, community members, faculty and administration generously invested in these young leaders in ways that will make an impact on them for years to come. We are all so grateful.”

Look forward to the contributions these young leaders will make at SHA next year with their new learnings and skills.

Ocean Financial Credit Union Invests in Financial Literacy

Thanks to generous sponsors, Ocean Financial Federal Credit Union, SHA is thrilled to be the first sponsored school on Long Island to offer Rock The Street, Wall Street (RTSWS) next year. Rock The Street, Wall Street is a financial and investment literacy program designed to bring both gender and racial equity to the financial markets and spark the interest of high school girls into careers of finance. Lisa McGuinness ’77 P ’07, chairwoman of Ocean Financial’s Board of Directors was an enthusiastic advocate of the program at SHA.

Lisa says “Ocean Financial is deeply committed to financial literacy. This program created

a perfect opportunity to demonstrate that commitment at Sacred Heart Academy. I am delighted that it will provide information and mentoring opportunities to the girls. I know it will be meaningful to them.”

RTSWS sparks girls’ enthusiasm for finance at a crucial age and makes them aware of the societal benefits personal financial knowledge and mathoriented careers can have. Since launching in 2012, more than 6,000 girls have graduated from the year-long program. The program is an afterschool opportunity open to all students which includes a finance-based curriculum presented

by professionals, site-visits, and mentoring opportunities.

Joseph Tedesco, President/CEO of Ocean Financial Federal Credit Union says, “Catholic values are the bedrock of our organization. Ocean Financial is celebrating more than 50 years of Catholics helping Catholics. We are delighted to invest at Sacred Heart Academy as part of that value promise.”

To learn more about this exciting opportunity, visit www.sacredheartacademyli.org or email alumnae@sacredheartacademyli.org

Student Highlights

Madeleine Graham ’23, Carli LiBassi ’23 and Julia Revill ’23

SHA Researchers Shine at the 2023 L.I. Youth Summit

Madeleine Graham ’23 Takes First in Category

Sacred Heart Academy researchers have now earned nine (9) total awards since—more than any other school over the past three Long Island Youth Summits, and sponsored by Northwell Health, St. Joseph’s University & Vision Long Island.

Sacred Heart Academy researchers presented original research in three categories, and participated in a series of workshops led by academics, journalists, government officials, business executives, environmentalists, and nonprofit leaders. The annual event was sponsored by Northwell Health, St. Joseph’s University & Vision Long Island.

Madeleine (Maddie) Graham ’23 walked away with the First Place award in Teen Mental Health.

Below is a list of the girls, and the workshops they attended:

Julia Revill ’23: Diversity Madeleine Graham ’23: Teen Mental Health Carli LiBassi ’23: Science & Ethics

The purpose of the Summit is to engage teens to help solve local and regional social, economic, and environmental problems. The Summit seeks to foster the research, creative, and social skills of high school students by allowing them to work collaboratively with leaders in business, government, and non-profit sectors. The Summit

brings together talented students of diverse backgrounds from dozens of school districts across Long Island; the opportunity to work together in collaborative, solution-oriented teams can be priceless.

Students are invited to attend, and awards are given based on original research submitted to panels of judges composed of academic, business, and healthcare experts. Over three hundred students (4 from SHA) applied to attend the 2023 Youth Summit; 100 were invited, including all 4 Sacred Heart Academy girls.

Simply Spring Music Concert

Simply Spring, the annual spring concert was presented by the Musical Department on Thursday, May 18. It featured over 150 students in several varied performing groups: SHAcappella, Chamber Ensemble, Chamber Chorus, Chorus I and II, Orchestra, and Concert Band. Song choices

varied from classical pieces like “Waltz No. 2” by Dmitri Shostakovich to popular tunes like “Viva la Vida” and “Highlights from Phantom of the Opera.” The concert concluded with some lovely reflections and tributes by seniors Magdalena Sammut, Gianna Lekhraj, and Kiley Scoma.

Association for Psychological Science Convention

Eleven Sacred Heart Academy seniors had their poster proposals accepted for presentation at the Association for Psychological Science (APS) Convention in Washington, DC on May 25-27. The girls spent most of the holiday weekend presenting their own original research, discussing the work of university students and professors with the actual authors—and visiting significant sites in the nation's capital.

Student Highlights

Celebrating SHA Grandparents

Sacred Heart Academy was delighted to welcome the class of 2023’s grandparents to the May Crowning Liturgy on May 4. Grandparents of the 9th-11th grade students attended the Ascension Thursday Liturgy on May 18, 2023.

"Wait! You're in high school? That's amazing!"

This reaction was actually pretty typical. From professors to undergraduates, our girls were the talk of the Convention's Thursday night poster session. Nine attendees were seniors; two were juniors. The girls presented remarkably sophisticated original research that stood up well alongside undergraduates and graduate students at one of psychology’s most prestigious

international annual gatherings. All proposals are "read blindly,” meaning the judges did not know they were reading the work of high school students.

This year's outcome swells the number of Sacred Heart APS invitations since 2019 to forty-nine.

SHA Senior Julia Revill ’23 research published in the Whitman Journal of Psychology (WJP)

The Maryland-based Whitman Journal of Psychology published a study conducted by Julia Revill ’23: “Virginia Slims' redux: Revisiting the construct of subjective value placed on feminine-advertised products.”

WJP is the leading peer-reviewed journal for secondary behavioral science research. The editors receive over 450 submissions each year. Julia Revill’s work is one of approximately twelve that saw print in 2023.

Julia examined a social and economic construct all-too-familiar to her peers—the so-called “Pink Tax” assessed on similar goods marketed to American females.

A brief abstract of Ms. Revill’s paper follows:

Gender-based price discrimination, or “The Pink Tax,” is an economic bias that sees one gender charged a different price for the same goods or services. This “tax” is commonly levied on feminine-marketed products. Thus, goods targeted toward females are comparatively more expensive than those marketed to males. Previous

research has confirmed the presence of genderbased price discrimination; this study expands this work by examining whether girls’ knowledge of these price disparities differs by high school type (single-sex or coeducational). Additionally, it evaluates the extent to which internalized sexism and/or relative masculinity vs. femininity contribute to adolescent girls’ knowledge.

147 participants chose between a series of binary product choices (masculine-advertised or feminine-advertised). They also completed

1) The Traditional Masculinity-Femininity (TMF) scale (Kachel et al., 2016) and 2) a self-designed Internalized Sexism Scale. These instruments evaluated subjects’ attitudes towards masculinity/ femininity and gender roles.

Additionally, participants were asked to define gender-based price discrimination in a free-

response question. Both quantitative and qualitative coding and statistical analyses were undertaken. Adolescent girls’ masculinity/ femininity index was strongly correlated with tendency to choose feminine-advertised products. Those who most accurately defined gender-based discrimination reported significantly lower levels of internalized sexism. Unexpectedly, no significant differences between girls attending a single-sex school and those enrolled in a coeducational institution were found for any dependent variable. This suggests a societal-level problem beyond the reach of school environment.

Ms. Revill’s publication in an academic journal is the tenth by a member of the Science Research class since Fall 2020! Julia will attend Georgetown University this fall.

Student Highlights

Junior Ring Day & Mother/Daughter Night

Many time-honored traditions were celebrated this Spring! The Class of 2024 celebrated their ring/pin ceremony and the Junior Dinner Dance. Girls in all grades spent the evening with their moms at the Mother-Daughter Dinner. It was great to see so many alumnae moms in the room!

Hack the Box “Capture the Flag” Competition

Hilary Rojas Rosales ’23 and Isabelle Duprey ’24 competed in a hackathon called Hack the Box “Capture the Flag”. The event was sponsored by The Sanford Family. Over 60 students from local high schools competed in 13 challenges, across 7 categories.

They placed 11th out of 60 students!

Linda S. Sanford, ’74 Ed, ’98 HON, St. John’s Board of Trustees Emerita, gave the opening remarks and encouraged students “to learn a lot because cybersecurity is a field that is open to many opportunities, and it is important to learn how to deploy technology safely.”

“I believe Computer Science is going to contribute an impressive amount to our future. It enables various technological advancements in multiple industries such as healthcare, education, entertainment, sustainability, agriculture and more!”

—Hilary Rojas Rosales ’23

Hilary Rojas Rosales ’23 and Isabelle Duprey ’23

Middle School Teacher Appreciation Event

Nineteen middle school teachers from Catholic schools across Long Island were honored at an intimate celebration in SHA’s Library and Media Resource Center on Thursday, April, 27, 2023. As part of Mrs. Maura Rossi’s first-year English class, current ninth grade students were encouraged to reflect on a middle school teacher who had made a significant impact in their lives. Dr. Mary Ellen Minogue P ’02, ‘07, chairperson of the English department and founder of the event, served as the host for the evening where each of the girls read their heartfelt essays aloud to their teachers. Many of the honorees were joined by their principals as well.

“As Principal of St. Aidan School, I was delighted to attend the Sacred Heart Academy Middle School Teacher Celebration to watch two of our middle school teachers be honored by St. Aidan School graduates. This celebration honoring middle school teachers included touching stories of students whose lives were positively transformed. Listening to these young women speak with heartfelt appreciation and recognition for their exceptional middle school teachers truly exemplified the power of dedicated teachers and the profound influence they have on shaping the future generation. The atmosphere of the event was brimming with gratitude and admiration and I was so fortunate to be part of it!”

—Julie A. O’Connell P ’22

Middle School teachers are instrumental in helping to foster a passion for learning in the young women who choose to continue their education at Sacred Heart Academy.

Student Highlights

SHA Students placed at the USA Irish Dance Alliance Provincials 2022

Three SHA students placed at the USA Irish Dance Alliance Provincials 2022 in Lancaster PA. Mary Hagen '26 placed 1st, Caroline Phelan '26 placed 4th, Caroline Cosgrove '26 placed 5th in the Girls under 14: Hagen-Kavanagh School category.

First place winner at the Interscholastic Equestrian Nationals

SHA Sophomore Lily Martens competed in the Interscholastic Equestrian Nationals in Tryon, NC and earned the top spot!

four sisters field Celebrates 10th Anniversary

The creation of Four Sisters Field transformed SHA in so many significant ways. Its presence created a campus by expanding SHA’s footprint beyond a single building. Its green space and energetic spectators transformed the houselined Cathedral Avenue, and invited neighbors to become loyal fans of the Lady Spartans and SHA! It transformed the lives of SHA students who now could have Physical Education classes outside, and can imagine new athletic opportunities on the field. It transformed the lives of SHA student-athletes who can now practice and play in a space comparable to peer high schools. It also transformed SHA’s admissions by inspiring prospective students to consider SHA because of the new opportunities afforded by Four Sisters Field. Its impact has been immeasurable.

Since its creation in 2013, there have been

approximately 210 soccer games, 30 field hockey games, 240 lacrosse games, and countless practices, tryouts and scrimmages. Camps have taken place on the field, introducing the next generation of SHA students to the SHA experience. And, it even hosted one COVID graduation.

SHA’s athletic presence has also grown along with the field, including one state championship and two league championships, and 70 studentathletes going to play collegiate sports. Athletic director, Morgan Molinari O’Connor ’02, says, “the attraction of home games, fans on your campus, and more practice time attracts higher quality athletes to SHA. It has given athletes a home field, and that is a big advantage.”

Who are the sisters for whom the field is named?

The Riley Sisters: Brigid ’98, Shannon ’00, KerryLynn ’03 and Courtney ’07 are all successful graduates of Sacred Heart Academy and Villanova University. The generous benefactors, Jim and Ellen Riley, parents of the four sisters, say “all of

our girls appreciate and understand the role SHA played in navigating their future.” Today, they are actively making contributions to honor their alma maters.

Brigid is a Vice President at Goldman Sachs. She also serves on the board of trustees for the all-girls New York City school where her three daughters attend. Shannon is the co-founder of Brooklyn Emerging Leaders Academy (BELA), an all-girls high school in Brooklyn, and was honored at the 2020 SHA Dinner Dance. Kerry-Lynn is a Vice President of Global Merchandising for Gap, and on the president advisory council for Villanova University. Courtney is a Vice President in Global Investment Research at Goldman Sachs. They were all part of the Red team and KerryLynn ’03 and Courtney ’07 were co-captains.

Generosity transforms lives. SHA is ever grateful to the Riley family for transforming the lives of so many SHA students through the Four Sisters Field.

The Mollie Biggane Melanoma Foundation

Thanks to the generosity of the Mollie Biggane Melanoma Foundation, Four Sisters Field is now outfitted with a sunscreen dispenser. Over 220 campers and over 500 SHA student-athletes will now be able to protect themselves from the sun.

To learn more about the work of Cara Biggane ’00 and Mollie’s Fund, please visit: molliesfund.org

When a dream becomes a reality it has transformational effects.

Alumnae News

Mock Trial Mentor Sara Campbell ’18

Sara Campbell, a graduate of Sacred Heart Academy class of 2018, graduated from Yale University and helped to coach the mock trial team. As coach, Sara worked with the students helping them to write opening and closing statements as well as cross and direct examinations. She further helped the team to analyze case law. Most of all, she gave the students confidence and encouragement. The mock trial students advanced to the Sweet Sixteen round of the New York State Mock Trial Tournament in Nassau County under Sara’s guidance. At Yale, Sara served as the External President of the Yale mock trial association. She captained several mock trial teams, competed at the National Championship Tournament, including in the national final round. She won multiple individual awards, and won 6th place in the country at Trial by Combat, the national collegiate 1-on-1 mock trial tournament. Four years ago, Sara was captain of the Sacred Heart Academy mock trial team.

“Sara is the epitome of selflessness. In her tireless effort to give back to our SHA community, she has encouraged, educated, and supported our mock trial team. We are so appreciative of the tremendous time and energy she spent with us this year and so thankful for her knowledge and kindness.” —Jackie

Bodycomb ’24

Alumnae Speaker at National Honor Society

Alexandra Prophete ’97 was the speaker at this year’s National Honor Society induction. After graduating from SHA, Alexandra went on to receive her B.S. in Management Information Systems from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Alexandra started her career as an IT Project Leader at General Electric Company, after which she attained her J.D. from Arizona State University and began her legal career as an attorney for the City of New York, prosecuting child abuse and neglect cases on behalf of the Administration for Children’s Services. She eventually shifted her focus to the intersection of law and technology, with operational roles at the law firms of Reed Smith and Cleary Gottlieb. Subsequently, Alexandra spent time in-house at JP Morgan Chase and most recently as an executive at Ernst & Young. She can often be found as a guest speaker at various legal conferences discussing how technology can effectively support both the practice and the business of law. In addition to her work advancing the legal profession, Alexandra is an advocate for the empowerment of women and

under-represented communities, having served for several years as a volunteer member on the Grants Advisory Committee of the New York Women’s Foundation.

Alexandra congratulated 137 juniors at the National Honor Society Induction ceremony for their exceptional achievements in academics, service, leadership, and character. She shared “You might have a goal and a destination in mind which is great. You should remain receptive that the path you have envisioned for yourself and the path you actually take almost never look the same. You have the ability to forge your own path every single day and whatever road you take you will have detours along the way. Keep your eyes open for unexpected opportunities, trust in your own resilience, have faith that every twist and turn that you take is leading you closer to your goals. No one’s path is set and that’s a good thing.” Alexandra encouraged the class of 2024 inductees to embrace the chaos.

Sara Campbell ’18 (center) and members of the Mock Trial Team

Alexandra Prophete ’97 & Melanie Charles ’97

CSJ Refugee Resettlement Program Presentation by Sister Annelle Fitzpatrick

We often forget that the Holy family, Jesus Mary and Joseph were refugees forced to flee their home in fear of persecution. After their long journey they arrived as foreigners, with no place to stay and no one to welcome them. The mission of the Sisters of Saint Joseph is one rooted in inclusivity; all are welcome regardless of circumstances.

S. Annelle Fitzpatrick, CSJ, presented to students enrolled in Quest for Peace theology class.* Sister Annelle spoke about the CSJ Refugee Resettlement Program which fosters a welcoming

environment to our displaced brothers and sisters around the world. Sister Annelle shared the development of the program and the work of volunteers who helped to create liveable homes for refugees from Ukraine and Afghanistan. She also shared the difficulties refugees face adjusting to a new culture away from their homeland. Students shared how hearing these stories put things into perspective for them. One student added that she doesn’t understand why the world doesn’t do more to help. Using the famous tale of the starfish, Sister Annelle encouraged students

to “find their starfish.” In a world with injustice, she reminded us all that we can make a change for one stranded starfish along the way. It was inspiring to see the Sisters of Saint Joseph live out God’s call to welcome the stranger. Thank you Sister Annelle for coming to Sacred Heart to share your work.

*The Quest for Peace: The Church and the United Nations is a 10th grade elective course that examines global political structures as a pathway to peace.

Honoring S. Jean Amore, CSJ and Mary Christy ’66

S. Jean Amore, CSJ, Principal, and Mary Christy ’66, School Counselor, were honored at the 2023 Sisters of St. Joseph, Brentwood Spring Liturgy and Luncheon. Congratulations to S. Jean and Mary Christy; thank you for always showing courage, compassion, and commitment to us each and everyday.

Mission at Work

Andes and the Galapagos Islands Adventure

During Easter Break, Mr. Richard Powers, Ms. Lavery and over 120 SHA students took a Service Trip to Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands!

They worked to prevent deforestation with the people of Yunguilla Community, spent time in the Galápagos Islands, visited the Charles Darwin Center and hiked to the Sierra Negra Volcano!

At Sacred Heart Academy, we believe that international travel provides students with an opportunity to expand the boundaries of the physical classroom to the world that exists beyond the school walls.

To check out upcoming travel: www.sacredheartacademyli.org/SHAtravel/

Crochet Club

SHA’s Crochet Club has been busy this year making beautiful items including hats and blankets to be donated to those in need. Members worked diligently throughout the year to donate hats to the community at Our Lady of Loretto. Kathleen Cenophat ’26 crocheted blankets and hats for incarcerated women giving birth. A special thanks to Kiley Scoma ’23, the president of the crochet club, and all members of the crochet club who worked passionately throughout the year to make a retirement gift for S. Jean. The red and gold pillow, presented to S. Jean during the last school-wide assembly, honored her time and work at Sacred Heart. The Crochet Club is excited to continue to spread joy next year!

Kathleen Cenophat ’26

Kiley Scoma ’23

Athletics Updates

Athletics Signings 2023

Surpassing the national average for the seventh year in a row, Sacred Heart Academy Athletics has committed 14 members of the class of 2023 to collegiate athletics.

Good luck, girls, as you represent SHA at the next level:

• Sophia Bouyer, Swimming, Adelphi University

• Brigid Byrnes, Cross Country-Track and Field, The Catholic University of America

• Catherine Dean, Swimming, United States Air Force Academy

• Kaitlin Donopria, Soccer, Gettysburg College

• Cavan Gormsen, Swimming, University of Virginia

• Mia Hannan, State University of New York, Cross Country-Track and Field

• Tess Howley, Swimming, University of Virginia

• Alyssa Illiano, Soccer, Queens College

• Colleen Kelleher, Volleyball, Misericordia University

SHA Lacrosse Players Play in NCAA Tournament

Eleven NCAA lacrosse players competed in the NCAA Tournament in May 2023. These alumnae represented SHA at the highest collegiate level across three divisions. Go Spartans!

Division 1:

• Caitlin Boden ’22, James Madison University

• Kayleigh Chin ’22, Fairfield University

• Kayla Martello ’20, Boston College

• Layton Nass ’19, University of Massachusetts Amherst

• Daniela Stelcer ’19 and Arden Tierney ’19, University of Richmond

Division 2:

• Izzy Grant ’17 and Lily Miller ’19, Adelphi University

Division 3:

• Kyra Browne ’22, Wesleyan University

• Grace Lane ’21, University of Scranton

• Sophia Paesano ’22, University of Chicago

Several Spartan alumnae went on to earn postseason honors: Arden Tierney ’19 was named a second team D1 All-American by the Intercollegiate Women's Lacrosse Coaches Association and a D1 Honorable Mention AllAmerican by USA Lacrosse.

Izzy Grant ’17 was named a D2 Honorable Mention All-American by USA Lacrosse and Cubby Biscardi ’19 was named a D1 Honorable Mention All-American by USA Lacrosse.

• Ashley Meade, Swimming, St. Michael’s College

• Ava Niggermeier, Tennis, The Catholic University of America

• Kelsie Price, Soccer, Monmouth University

• Kaitlin Simat, Lacrosse, The Catholic University of America

• Kathleen Tevlin, Swimming, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Athletics Updates

New Intramural Sports: Pickleball and Competitive Cheer

Sacred Heart Athletics introduced two new intramural sports this spring. Twenty studentathletes took to the courts of Hempstead Lake State Park to enjoy the nation's fastest growing women’s professional sport, pickleball. The girls honed their skills and perfected their serve. Alumnae even joined in the fun!

Twenty-four student-athletes participated in the intramural competitive cheer team this spring. The program was met with enthusiasm and talent. The intramural team will become a competitive cheer team this fall. The cheer team performed at the spring pep rally and received a roaring ovation from the SHA student body!

Byrne Sisters Make SHA History!

Ellen Byrnes ’18 received the Sister Virgina Crowley award in 2018. The award is given annually to a multi-sport athlete who has had a tremendous individual impact ensuring her team has great success. She is a multi-sport standout athlete participating at the next level. Ellen was a three sport athlete, competing in soccer, winter and spring track and field. Ellen

represented SHA as a runner for four years at the University of Pennsylvania. This June, her sister, Brigid Byrnes ’23, was awarded the same honor. Brigid won for her participation in cross country, winter and spring track and field. Brigid will represent SHA at The Catholic University of America this fall. The Byrnes sisters are the first sisters to share this honor.

Ellen Byrnes ’18

Brigid Byrnes ’23

Institutional Advancement Highlights

Thanks to the generosity of many alumnae, parents and friends, Sacred Heart continues to be the recipient of plentiful benefits. The Leadership Awards dinner that honored Katie (Voight ’02) Hoey, Mary Mahoney ’81 and Roger O’Donnell P ’15 in March raised over $250K.

A Call to Lead, the Campaign for Sacred Heart Academy, continues to be met with generosity and enthusiasm. I have had the honor and the privilege of meeting with former classmates, alumnae and parents to ask for their support. I look forward to sharing our vision with many of you as we continue to discuss plans at receptions and small gatherings.

The Annual Fund supports the most pressing and vital needs of our school community. Giving Day continues to be a fun, engaging and successful day to raise Annual Fund dollars.

The Office of Institutional Advancement works closely with the Board of Trustees. This Spring, we welcomed two trustees into the classroom. Mary Galligan ’80, Chair of the Board of Trustees, visited Dr. Minogue’s senior Gender Studies class, where she shared her professional experiences as a woman working in male-domianted fields, regaling the young women with stories of her days as an F.B.I. agent and as a cyber-security expert. Ms. Galligan made clear that her years at Sacred Heart instilled in her the confidence to pursue her dreams and the work ethic to transform those dreams into reality.

Liz (Baulch ’88) Zullo visited Mr. Abbatiello’s Computer Class. Mrs. Zullo told the senior students, “It is a source of pride for me to have

spent my entire career at our nation’s first bank and first stock ever traded on the NYSE. For 239 years, our clients look to BNY Mellon as a safe harbor during stormy market cycles.” She also noted, “When I review internship and job candidate resumes, I am impressed by Bloomberg certifications. Kudos to SHA for incorporating this important concept into the curriculum.”

We give a heartfelt thanks to Roger O’Donnell P ’15 and Chris Tully P ’17, ’17 for their years of service to the board.

We welcome Domenique Camacho Moran Jennifer (Vertiz ’88) Calabrese P ’20, and S. Suzanne Franck, CSJ who start their trusteeship this summer.

Thank you for your generosity to Sacred Heart Academy.

With gratitude,

Daria Moringiello Mulhall ’00, Director of Development

Liz (Baulch ’88) Zullo visited Mr. Abbatiello’s Computer Class.

Mary Galligan ’80 visited Dr. Minogue’s senior Gender Studies class.

The 2023 Golf Outing took place on Monday, May 22 at the Hempstead Golf & Country Club followed by a cocktail reception and dinner. Alumnae, parents and friends spent a beautiful day on the green supporting SHA. The silent auction and raffle prizes were enjoyed by all who participated. Enthusiasm is already building for next year!

We are grateful for all those who made the event such a success:

GOLF COMMITTEE CO-CHAIRS

Chris Carter P ’23

Mike McCarthy P ’21

GOLF COMMITTEE

Theresa (Mahoney ’86) Bohm P ’26

Doug Madden P ’24, ’26

Janice McCreay ’93, P ’25

Patrick Miller P ’23, ’26

Bill Supper P ’25, ’26

SAVE THE DATE! 2024 ANNUAL GOLF & TENNIS OUTING

at the Hempstead Golf & Country Club

Monday, May 20, 2024

Lawyers Group CLE Event at Sacred Heart Academy

Wednesday, October 25, 2023 7:00pm

Presenter:

Domenique Camacho Moran P ’19, Partner Farrell Fritz

Northwell Health SHA Alumnae Employees Breakfast

Wednesday, October 4, 2023

8:30–10:00am

Florida Holiday Events Luncheon

SHA Thanksgiving Liturgy

Tuesday, November 21

Christmas Drive Thru

Tuesday, December 5, 5:00pm

Christmas Liturgy

Wednesday, December 20

February 2024

Alumnae and Parents of Alumnae Florida residents and Snowbirds!

SHA is hosting a Luncheon in Naples and Palm Beach Gardens, in mid-February. Let us know if you would like to attend this Florida event!

Brunch in New York City

Sunday, November 5, 2023

College Coffee Hour

Thursday, January 4, 2024, 2:00pm

For more information and to register for these events, please visit https://sacredheartacademyli.org/AlumnaeEvents

golf & tennis outing

Monday, May 20, 2024

Hempstead Golf & Country Club

SHA 2023 CLASS REUNIONS

CLASS OF 1973 50TH REUNION

Saturday, September 23, 2023

5:30pm Mass and School Tour

7:00pm–10:00pm Dinner at Cherry Valley Club

Sunday, September 24, 2023

12:00pm–3:00pm Luncheon at Hempstead Golf and Country Club

CLASS OF 1978 45TH REUNION

Saturday, September 23, 2023

5:30pm Mass and School Tour 7:00pm–10:30pm Dinner at Calogero’s

CLASSES OF 1983, 1988, 1993, 1998, 2003, 2008

Saturday, September 23, 2023

5:30pm Mass and School Tour

7:00pm–10:00pm Cocktails and Dinner on campus

CLASSES OF 2013 & 2018

Friday, September 29, 2023

8:00pm at R.J. Daniels

CLASSES OF 1953, 1958, 1963 & 1968

Friday, October 13, 2023

10:30am Mass and School Tour

12:00pm–3:00pm Lunch at Hempstead Golf & Country Club

To register for your class reunion, please visit www.sacredheartacademyli.org/Reunions/