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Update Magazine: Spring 2016

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Sharing a Tradition of Excellence with Alumnae, Parents and Friends • www.sja1890.org • Spring 2016

Wellness Curriculum Focuses on Body, Mind and Spirit

Saint Joseph Academy SPRING 2016

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Letter from the President Dear Saint Joseph Academy Alumnae, Parents and Friends,

3470 Rocky River Drive • Cleveland, Ohio 44111 216-251-6788 • www.sja1890.org

UPDATE is published by Saint Joseph Academy for alumnae, parents and friends. Contributors to this issue of UPDATE include: Allison Busser ’04, Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis ’71, Kathy Flinn, Betty Hjort, Susan Condon Love ’76, Mickie Matheis, Laura McCarty ’07, Jeff Sutliff, Geoff Powers and Constance S. Sipple, CFRE. Photography courtesy Susan Condon Love ’76, Laura McCarty ’07, Larry Kasperek/ NEOSPRTSPIX and Lifetouch Photography. For more information, please contact Susan Condon Love ’76, Communications Director, at 216.619.1937 or slove@sja1890.org.

MISSION Saint Joseph Academy, rooted in the spirituality of the Congregation of St. Joseph, fosters unifying relationships with God and all creation, empowers each young woman to achieve academic excellence and inspires a life of compassionate leadership and service in a global society.

On the cover: Class of 2017

At the age of 19, I traveled solo to Paris to spend my junior year of college studying the French language and culture. John Carroll University did not have a study abroad program way back in 1973, so I enrolled as an independent student at La Sorbonne. My French professor helped me find accommodations in an international boarding house for young women located in the heart of Paris on l’Ile Saint Louis, very near Notre Dame cathedral. It was an experience that changed my worldview and my life. For that time on, I became a global citizen. I mention this experience because we live in an increasingly inter-connected world. Of course, we have always been connected, but today’s 24/7 news coverage brings this interdependence to us more directly than ever before. The Sisters of the Congregation of St. Joseph live and work to bring all people into union with God, each other and all creation. All people into union, so, as Jesus said, “that all may be one.” (John 17:21) At Saint Joseph Academy, we embrace this mission of unity. It is reflected in our curriculum, including instruction in four World Languages – Spanish, Latin, French and Mandarin Chinese – at all levels, including Advanced Placement. It means we study international literature, history and governments. We read books written by and about international events, both historical and contemporary, such as” The Children of Willesden Lane” and “I Am Malala.” And we travel. We travel to international locations so that we can learn about people who are different from ourselves but who, like us, are made in the image and likeness of God. We travel because we are curious to see how we compare and contrast with our sisters and brothers around the globe. We travel to “serve the dear neighbor” in places like El Salvador. We travel to inspire the young women of Saint Joseph Academy to become the peacemakers of tomorrow. As Juanita Shealey, CSJ always tells our students, “You are the generation that is going to get things right!” You will read about our international travels in this magazine, and learn more about the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme we are pursuing. This program will further enrich our students’ experience by helping them to “develop the intellectual, personal, emotional and social skills needed to live, learn and work in a rapidly globalizing world.” After my studies in Paris, I was determined to explore the world and work for an international company. My dream came true years later, when my business responsibilities had me travel to more than 20 countries, including living in Australia. I can still recall my first visit to Cape Town, South Africa. As I looked south toward the continent of Antarctica, I remember getting goosebumps as I said to myself, “I am from West Park, and look where I am now!” The more I traveled, the more I realized that people everywhere are in search of the same things: good health, safety from harm, a better education for their children, and so on. As junior Katie Pellegrino, studying in Belgium this year, observes, “By traveling and experiencing other cultures, you are learning and making connections between them and thus, building this idea of cultural understanding.” I couldn’t agree more! It is my prayer that understanding this will lead to unity around the globe. Sursum corda! Lift up your hearts!

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• N – Nazareth alumna • T – St. Therese alumna • P – parent of current SJA student • † – deceased Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE Saint

Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis ’71 President Joseph Academy UPDATE


The Character of a Saint Joseph Academy Graduate

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hen young women graduate from Saint Joseph Academy, the rest of their lives are forever deeply influenced by the charism of the Congregation of Saint Joseph (CSJ). There has always been abundant anecdotal evidence of this phenomenon, but the question that came to the forefront was how to formally define “The Character of a Saint Joseph Academy Graduate.” An ad hoc committee worked together to define the qualities each graduate should carry into the world beyond Rocky River Drive. Led by Marcella Clancy, CSJ, and SJA Vice President of Mission Phyllis DiFuccia, SSJ, the committee’s goal was to create a document to help gauge the effectiveness of a Catholic school steeped in the charism of the Sisters of St. Joseph. “Formalizing ‘The Character of a Saint Joseph Academy Graduate’ reflects the philosophy that has led the community for 126 years, since the Sisters of the Congregation of St. Joseph first founded Saint Joseph Academy,” said Sr. Phyllis. “It is an expression of what I’d like to call ‘our spiritual curriculum’ – that we are not only concerned about academic excellence, but also spirituality.” “We believe that there are five key qualities of the character of a Saint Joseph Academy graduate,” continued Sr. Phyllis. “In the CSJ tradition, a Saint Joseph Academy woman lives a life of unifying love through empathetic justice, service to the dear neighbor without distinction, personal integrity and emerging wisdom.” “The result of the work done by this committee is inspirational and shines a light on the four-year development path of the young women of Saint Joseph Academy,” shared Cathy Lanning Knittel ’67. “All of these qualities of character define graduates of Saint Joseph Academy,” said Sr. Phyllis. “The spirituality of the Congregation of St. Joseph inspires all that we do as a community: We live and work that all may be in union with God, each other and all creation. That is the true character of a Saint Joseph Academy graduate.”

In the tradition of the Congregation of St. Joseph, the graduate of Saint Joseph Academy is a woman who lives Unifying Love through Empathetic Justice Service to the Dear Neighbor without Distinction Personal Integrity Emerging Wisdom Unifying Love Nourished by prayer, scripture and the sacraments, she exhibits inclusivity, mutuality and oneness in relationships with God, others and Earth. Empathetic Justice Devoted to doing justice with compassion and respect for others, she works for systemic change to bring about global equality. Service to the Dear Neighbor without Distinction Recognizing relationship as the primary service, she makes herself vulnerable in meeting the unmet needs of others. Personal Integrity Valuing the wellness of body, mind and spirit, she discovers and owns her unique gifts and skills, claims her leadership ability and moves forward with confidence, courage, honesty, and initiative. Emerging Wisdom Enlightened by intellectual curiosity, discernment and openness, she thinks critically, reflects regularly, broadens her perspectives, and embraces the challenges of new ideas. Saint Joseph Academy SPRING 2016

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Helping Students Become More Globally Minded

Jaguars ”running with the bulls“ in Pamplona, Spain 2016

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n January, about six months into junior Katie Pellegrino’s year abroad in Frenchspeaking Belgium, she had an epiphany. “I don’t know exactly when it happened, but I realized that I understood everything the teacher had said,” said Katie. “It was like a miracle! I knew exactly what was going on!” As evidenced by Katie’s exchange student “ah ha!” moment, there are no borders when it comes to learning. Global experiences foster a bigger sense of self and expand educational horizons. That is why international travel – cultural trips, exchange programs, mission trips and even global competitions – is a vital component of a Saint Joseph Academy education. In the past few years, hundreds of SJA students have traveled to nearly a dozen locales and countries. The trips have included visits to the Netherlands, England, Italy, Spain, Ireland, France, Japan, China, El Salvador and the Dominican Republic. Two students – including Katie – were international exchange students. Katie’s experience of a junior year abroad in Belgium through Rotary Club is following in the footsteps of Hailey Mertes ’14, who spent her junior year in Japan. SJA families 2

Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE

have also hosted students from China, Germany and Norway. “International travel offers experiences that students could never capture through a textbook or in a classroom. And that is the key … the experiences,” shared College Counselor Maria Mueller, who has accompanied students on a half dozen international trips. “Whether a student tries to order a cup of coffee in Paris or goes through customs in London, navigating these unfamiliar experiences push students out of their comfort zones.” The benefits go far beyond personal growth. Colleges and universities around the world are valuing the goal of becoming more globally engaged and continuing to encourage their students to travel and study abroad. What we do today to will increase even more when we are approved as a International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program school (see story on page 4). “I’ve always dreamed of living abroad,” shared Katie. “Exchange offered everything I could have ever hoped or dreamed for: the opportunity to learn French; to travel and live abroad; and the opportunity to make

Katie Pellegrino ’17 in front of La Grande Place in Brussels


friends, not only with other Belgians, but with other exchange students who come from all over the world! It was perfect and so far, it has surpassed any expectations that I had before leaving.” “Travel is an amazing opportunity for all students,” shared Assistant Principal Emily Hanson ’99, who has accompanied students on mission trips to El Salvador, as well as cultural excursions to China, Italy and Spain. “It provides them a chance to meet new people and learn about another culture and history.” “Educational and mission trips foster an enhanced ability to be independent and

rely on oneself, for example, to navigate a city while on unstructured time,” added Ms. Hanson. “Travel expands the young women’s horizons beyond their usual experiences. Hopefully, it inspires them to seek opportunities after high school to study, travel or even live abroad.” Spanish teacher Ethan Saurwein has not only traveled with students to Spain, he often spends his summers in that country to further his understanding of the language and the culture. “It is my belief that travel and meeting people of different cultures on their terms and on their soil is the antidote for venoms such as racism, bullying and religious

persecution,” said Mr. Saurwein. “Those are learned evils based in ignorance and lack of understanding of people who perhaps have different ideals, customs and ideas.” He added, “International travel eradicates prejudices by promoting understanding, or at the very least, cordial curiosity about others who may seem different.” Katie is grateful for the experiences she’s encountered in her year abroad in Belgium. “The more that I learn of the differences between our cultures, the more I become aware of our similarities and, furthermore, the traditions and history as to why we do things the way we do. And the coolest part is that this idea works both ways. The more I learn about other cultures, the more it prompts me to consider my own culture and wonder why I do things the way I do. By traveling and experiencing other cultures, you are learning and making connections between them and thus, building this idea of cultural understanding.” “International travel encourages students to be passionate about events that occur around the world,” said Ms. Hanson. “We are all interconnected and need to be concerned for the dear neighbor, both in our own backyard and far away.”

Mission trip to El Salvador in 2015

College Counselor Maria Mueller with Molly Nar ’16 in France in 2015

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International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme Certification Continues

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ork is ongoing on Saint Joseph Academy’s road to certification in the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (IB MYP), a globally recognized program present in more than 4,000 schools and more than 147 countries. The IB MYP program will deepen SJA’s global point of view, while helping us nurture inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young women who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect. IB MYP is being instituted in the 9th and 10th grades, but all grade levels will benefit from the IB philosophy, as teaching methods will be schoolwide. The 10 key words in the IB Student Learner Profile – descriptive for both IB and IB MYP programmes – are: inquirers, knowledgeable, thinkers, communicators, principled, open-minded, caring; risk-takers, balanced and reflective. Faculty members are meeting monthly – in addition to the hours of individual training and study – to examine the structure, group guidelines and assessments built into the IB MYP. Ten faculty and administrative staff have attended IB MYP training workshops and an IB Implementation Committee currently is organized to assist in setting a timeline and faculty plan for going forward. The committee is working on identifying needed training, and facilitating the authorization process, among other duties. In addition, groups of teachers will travel to Atlanta in June and Austin in July 4

Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE

for IB training. “Together, we are continuing to grow in knowledge and confidence with the IB MYP every day,” shared Math teacher Jill Satanek Garlock ’92, who is helping to coordinate IB MYP training sessions. “The IB MYP mission is to strengthen the growth and formation of the mind, body and spirit of the young women entrusted to our care,” reiterated Principal Jeff Sutliff. “IB MYP emphasizes quality instruction that meets students where they are and encourages growth.“ The IB MYP curriculum framework comprises eight subject groups, providing a broad and balanced education for early adolescents. It perfectly supports SJA’s mission that learning means far more than acquiring information. It’s the application of knowledge that’s critical.

An IB education focuses on working with students’ unique learning styles, strengths and challenges. IB programmes address both cognitive development, as well as social, emotional and physical well-being. The MYP requires at least 50 hours of teaching time for each subject group, in each year of the program. At SJA, carefully-defined subject group flexibility will allow students to meet local requirements and personal learning goals. “We are working on getting all classroom teachers trained in Category 1 of IB MYP for their specific subject area. Category 1 is the first step in implementing the IB,” added Mrs. Garlock. “We will then have a core group of teachers attend Category 2 training, which is ‘Delivering the IB.’ As a teacher, I can see that IB MYP will enhance and grow the quality of a Saint Joseph Academy education. These are exciting times!”


Body, Mind and Spirit

Focus of Ongoing Wellness Curriculum

Kairos XXXIV

Promoting the health and wellness of our students through education, speakers, spiritual reflection and fitness activities has been a priority this academic year, due to the Wellness Curriculum launched in August. The program, with monthly themes, is already making a difference in the spiritual and physical well-being of students. “Each month, there is at least one offering for each of the categories in the Wellness Curriculum,” shared Dean of Women Marie Ciolek. “Those categories are physical, spiritual, speaker series, special events, and courses, including Physical Education and Health classes.” In the month of February alone, students enjoyed a full schedule of Zumba classes during Activity Blocks; viewed and discussed the film “Girl Rising,” the story of nine girls from developing countries overcoming enormous obstacles to achieve success; participated in the American Heart Association’s “Go Red for Women” event to raise awareness of heart disease in women; and enjoyed “Sister to Sister” lunches with the Congregation of St. Joseph to increase their spiritual wellness. In addition, members of SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions) and Silver Linings (SJA’s self-esteem club) joined together for “Body Image Week

2016” in February to help fellow students discover that beauty comes from within and that healthy choices mean a happy life. “ ‘Body Image Week’ gets people talking about topics such as self-love, positivity, prevention of eating disorders, and other matters that can affect teenage girls,” shared Bri Scebbi ’17, president of SADD. “One of the best-attended activities is Zumba with CORE Ministry teacher Elizabeth Pillari on Wednesdays,” said Ms. Ciolek. “CORE teacher Alison Barberic ’01 has also started a successful faith sharing group. We also have weekly reflections and daily prayer for our spiritual health. Popular

speakers visiting the school have been former TV personality and self-help author Andrea Vecchio and former New York City Ballet prima ballerina Kathryn Morgan, who spoke about dealing with adversity in your life and picking yourself and moving on when life throws you a curve ball.” “The focus on the entire well-being of the students is part of the mission and charism of Saint Joseph Academy and our sponsors, the Sisters of the Congregation of St. Joseph,” shared Principal Jeff Sutliff. “We are very happy with the progress of this initiative and look forward to more speakers, fitness programs and spiritual growth!”

2015-16 WELLNESS THEMES SEPTEMBER: Mental Health Awareness

OCTOBER: Breast Health

NOVEMBER: Nutrition

DECEMBER: Mindfulness/ Stress Relief

JANUARY: Goal Setting

FEBRUARY: Heart Health

MARCH: APRIL: Financial Wellness Environmental Health

MAY: Relationship/Teen Dating Violence Prevention

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Visual and Performing Arts Program

Fosters Critical-Thinking Skills, Cultural Appreciation

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alking the halls of SJA, it’s easy to recognize that visual and performing arts activities here are blossoming. On the third floor, for example, you may hear the tap, tap, tap of students creating jewelry, the clicking of camera shutters, or the whirring of 3D printers in the Makerspace as they are manufacturing objects from Computer Aided Design (CAD). Meanwhile, on the first floor, the Academy Chorale might be practicing in the music room at the same time students are rehearsing in the auditorium for the spring play. In another area, musicians are tuning their instruments as they get ready for another Ohio Music Education Association (OMEA) competition. As seen by student art and music awards, and increasingly frequent field trips to such

institutions of international renown as The Cleveland Orchestra and The Cleveland Museum of Art, it is obvious that attention to the arts is integral to Saint Joseph Academy nurturing the complete young woman. Proof of the success of our talented students includes such honors as: three students this year becoming members of The Cleveland Orchestra Youth Chorus; students this year and last participating in the Tri-C Rock-Off; art awards in The Cleveland Clinic xPressions contest; more than a dozen

Cleveland Theater Conference One Act Festival winners, l-r, Jane Roche ’19 and Hannah Glaser ‘18

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Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE

“Monet to Matisse” Exhibit visit

musicians recently receiving Superior and Outstanding ratings in the OMEA District 4 contest; a dozen students receiving 15 top awards in the National Scholastic Art & Writing competition, bringing our honors in that competition up to a total of 83 awards (including a dozen Gold Keys and a Portfolio award) in the last three years. The cultural activities via field trips enhance the curriculum. Students enjoyed the inspiring tones of the “Violins of Hope” in a special performance by The Cleveland Orchestra. In January, for the second year, the senior class traveled to Severance Hall for a performance of The Cleveland Orchestra. AP Studio Art, Art II and Photography II students explored downtown on a Public Art & Architecture tour. The junior class visited the Cleveland Museum of Art for the breathtaking exhibition “Monet to Matisse.” “The collaborative, creative, problemsolving nature of art classes help set our students on a path to academic and personal success beyond their years here,” shared Art teacher Terise Janca ’93. She and Arts teacher Tammy Sparks made a presentation on Advanced Placement art education and “Flipped Classrooms” last Fall at a statewide Ohio Arts Education Association meeting in Dayton. “What is unique about SJA’s art program is that we offer classes that many other area high schools do not offer, such as Jewelry & Metals, and Printmaking,” added Ms. Janca. “We also offer Independent Study for thirdlevel students, if they wish to further their skills in specific areas such as Ceramics. Many of our upper-level classes are combined, mirroring what happens at the collegiate level, so that we have the first and second (and sometimes third) levels of a class held at the same time. This has helped to make a more collaborative learning environment through the sharing of ideas and skills between all the levels of students.” Added Drama teacher Anne Chriszt,


PRINCIPAL’S CORNER: Education in the Arts

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Imari Hill ’19

“Arts education is important because it gives a student an opportunity to come out of her shell and think outside the box. In theater, students discover new things about themselves, learn what they are truly capable of and learn how to work and collaborate with others.” Department Chair Beth Pleban also sees real-world applications for students experiencing art and music classes. “Our Graphic Design courses, for example, offer students a chance to experience a real career field here in high school.” “Experiencing art in all its forms teaches students to take time and be thorough in how they observe the world,” shared Principal Jeff Sutliff. “This attention to detail is invaluable in the development of critical thinking skills, which of course can be applied to other course work, including the sciences.”

s I am writing this article, I hear students playing a duet on the grand piano outside the Main Office. Trading phrases they learned from YouTube videos and in lessons, they are laughing as they stumble, stop, start over and eventually move into the complete melody. At Saint Joseph Academy, we regard education in the arts as fundamental to our mission. The education of the whole person calls us to cultivate an appreciation and affinity for the arts in all forms. As God is the Master Creator, we grow closer to God through artistic expression. The arts bring us into communion with the divine. Recognizing that each student has unique gifts, we have developed a program that provides opportunities for all students at all levels to learn and grow in the arts. In the classroom, in the Makerspace, and throughout the city of Cleveland, Saint Joseph Academy students encounter and shape their world through the arts. Our commitment to the arts is enhanced by the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (IB MYP). Prioritizing arts education and recognizing the place of the arts alongside other disciplines are primary elements of the IB MYP philosophy. IB also encourages students and teachers to explore and discover the relationships between and among each of the subjects they study. The arts provide a vital bridge between knowledge and experience as well as an avenue for students to express their learning in personal and authentic ways. As Einstein stated, “Logic will get you from A to B. Imagination will take you everywhere.” Through a great deal of creativity, flexibility and commitment by our teachers and students, we have been able to dramatically increase participation in our arts program. In both the visual and performing arts, students have many options to learn something new or continue to refine talents that have been developed through years of practice. Enrollment in performing arts courses has increased more than 40 percent in the last five years, and audiences for our theatrical and musical performances have reached standing-room-only levels. New and expanded offerings in graphic design, digital arts, jewelry, ceramics and printmaking have also expanded the creative opportunities available to our students. Recognizing that Cleveland is home to a world-class orchestra, art museum and theater community, we commit that each of our students will experience these before she graduates. This curriculum of essential artistic experiences was developed by faculty and we continue to expand that commitment by looking for new ways to share these cultural connections with our students. Whether listening to Beethoven at Severance Hall, encountering Monet’s gardens at the Cleveland Museum of Art, or exploring the timeless themes of “King Lear” at Playhouse Square, our students celebrate learning beyond the walls of Saint Joseph Academy. Students have more opportunities available to them because our arts teachers have been leaders in the development and implementation of student-centered teaching and learning models that differentiate instruction. The students playing the piano outside my office represent the best of an integrated arts education: a willingness to learn together, a desire to create something beautiful and meaningful, and the persistence and resilience to stop and start again in pursuit of art. There is joy in the final product, but there is also joy in the process of making art.

Jeff Sutliff, Principal L-R: Recent Gold Key winners Molly Stofko '16, Danielle Samarin '16

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STEM Students Shine in Classroom and Competitions L-R: Sophomores Lizzie Lewandowski, Grace Semon and Juli Howe

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t was a typical afternoon in the Dining Hall, an hour after lunch. Tables were cleaned, floors swept and kitchen appliances sparkled, ready for the next day’s flurry of cooking for more than 700 students. Suddenly, the silence was broken by 10 seconds of high-pitched beeping, followed by a startlingly loud whirring roar. Honors Pre-Engineering students were using a long, unobstructed expanse of the Dining Hall to test the speed and efficiency of model race cars they had designed in class. 8

Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE

They had spent weeks becoming experts on aerodynamics, friction and streamlined race car design, thanks to a project based on the international “F1 in Schools” competitions. “Students were divided into three teams, each of which had to design a miniature F1 race car in Computer Aided Design (CAD) program, manufacture it using Computer Aided Manufacture (CAM) and router, test it in a virtual wind tunnel and in a preliminary race, and then redesign it based on their data,” said Math teacher

John Lesko. “The project culminated in final races (powered by a C02 cartridges) in which cars approached 35 mph.” Participation in such hands-on experiments is part of a multi-tiered approach used by SJA’s math and science teachers. By the end of their four years, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) students are comfortable using state-of-the-art CAD/CAM software, computer programming, laser cutters, 3D printers and other technology as


they collaborate in class and/or work on independent projects. Hands-on experimentation has helped students learn and excel. In February, for example, sophomores Lizzie Lewandowski (granddaughter of Pamela Pawlak Lewandowski N’65), Grace Semon and Juli Howe (pictured left) won the Innovate Award at the VEX Robotics Competition held at Cleveland State University. This award recognizes a single, specific innovative machine feature that was designed by thinking outside the box, resulting in a unique piece of engineering. This winter, students also saw engineering in action with a special behindthe-scenes tour of one of Cleveland’s most massive engineering projects. Donning bright yellow safety vests, clear goggles and vibrant blue hard hats, 20 students braved chilly rain to get an up-close view of the continuing construction of the I-90 Innerbelt Bridge. Negotiating the bumpy

dirt site under the towering arched pillars and open gridwork of the bridge, students were treated to inside information about the $273 million, 13-pier project. This year, students also are taking advantage of a transformational learning experience called the Makerspace. This learning center follows in the tradition of learning by experimentation and experience. To be used for independent learning, the space includes 3D printers, routers, vinyl cutters, laser engravers, a heat press, a photography light box and a green screen to create computer animation. “SJA’s science, technology, engineering and math departments work hard to expose students to the disciplines and skills necessary to pursue a STEM career,” shared Mr. Lesko. “These are fields in which women have traditionally been underrepresented.” Science teacher Mary Ellen Foley Scott ’76 also is incorporating more independent studies in her teaching. She has worked with

independent study students on such projects as VEX Robotics competitions, and the Lexus Eco Challenge filtration project in the first few months of this school year. In that assignment, our students worked with engineers and professors from Ashland College, Arcelor Mittal Steel, the Cleveland Water Department and Oklahoma State University to successfully design, build and install water filters that remove pollutants from thousands of gallons of farm water. Students who worked on this project presented their information to the Cleveland Engineering Society at a recent meeting. They also were invited to present their findings to the Cleveland Engineering Society meeting in November. “We are very excited to share our love of STEM with students,” said Mrs. Scott. “This is a vibrant, growing field and it is our goal to give each student the tools needed to be successful and innovative leaders in college and beyond.”

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J U N I O R P RO F E S S I O N A L S H A D OW I N G

Opens Worlds of Opportunity Each spring, juniors experience the real world of potential careers these days, thanks to our Junior Professional Shadowing program. The experience, coordinated by College Counselors Susan Emmerich and Maria Mueller, involves the juniors spending time with a sponsor in a potential career or passion of their choice. This year, 177 juniors were paired with a wide range of professionals, including naturalists, doctors, public officials, musicians, nurses and engineers. Students are required to keep journals detailing their experiences, responsibilities and opinions on the professionals observed. This career exploration helps students determine professions of interest and narrow options as they ramp up their college search process.

Here are some highlights from the 2016 Junior Professional Shadowing experience.

Rita Flanagan Rita shadowed a Senior Policy Advisor in Washington, D.C., at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Her mentor was Liz English of the NOAA Fisheries Division. “I had the chance to meet with some outstanding individuals who work every single day to make the world a more sustainable place. My first day, I attended a congressional subcommittee hearing on Capitol Hill about a new piece of legislation that the Committee for Natural Resources is working on in Congress. Seeing Congress at work was really cool.” “During my shadowing, I also visited the State Department with Ms. English for a program hosted by the Under Secretary for Economic Growth, Energy and the Environment. This program was on combating Wildlife Trafficking in recognition of the following day being World Wildlife Day. My third and final day, I went to the Justice Department for a program hosted by the Assistant Attorney General. This program was also in recognition of World Wildlife Day and the Assistant Attorney General used it as a platform for announcing the Obama Administration’s new strategy to end wildlife trafficking.” “Prior to shadowing, I had a budding interest in Environment Studies (thanks to Science teacher Maureen Becker). I realized how much I loved this area of study during my shadowing experience. “ Rita is the sister of Hannah Flanagan ’10.

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Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE

Elizabeth Heneghan Elizabeth shadowed several naturalists from the Cleveland Metroparks. “The naturalists work at the Watershed Stewardship Center at West Creek. Ever since I was young, I have always been interested in nature and the outdoors. Through the years, I have learned that I want to pursue a career related to environmental studies and sustainability. My goal is to make a difference in the global community and inspire others as well.” During her three days, Elizabeth helped assemble a part of a Monarch Waystation to create a habitat for the declining butterfly species, learned about frogs and toads, and travelled to a local elementary school to see the naturalists conduct a class. “I loved seeing different types of people come together for the same cause. Everyone at the Watershed Stewardship Center wants to make a difference in the environment. This gave me the encouragement to continue fighting for what I believe in and realize that there are others out there who share the same interests as me.” Elizabeth is the granddaughter of JoAnn Prochillo Horan ’57.


Katie Donovan Katie traveled to Washington, D.C. to work alongside the Chief of Design at the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of Natural History (NMNH). “I shadowed a position that encompasses a mixture of two of my favorite subjects: art and history. I wanted to see how these two could be combined in a career and I was happy to see that I can pursue my two favorite things in college and beyond!” “I was fortunate to have a behind-the-scenes tour of the museum, which I loved. I helped catalog wood samples that will be shown in a future exhibit, and I picked out images of the items that will be in a new exhibit that will be used to make merchandise sold in the gift shops. I was able to work with the guests of the museum and ask them about a potential graphic that could be placed in the new fossil hall coming in 2019. I was even able to tour an exhibit not yet opened to the public!” “I was surprised at the behind-the-scenes work. So much time and effort is put into every small detail of an exhibit. Being exposed to this gave me a greater appreciation for history and for art. The next time I go to a museum, I will be sure to appreciate what work has been put into each exhibit!”

Kala Seeholzer-Seibert Kala spent her Junior Professional Shadowing experience with Mary Kay Fink, the principal piccolo player for The Cleveland Orchestra and a teacher at the Cleveland Institute of Music (CIM). “I visited CIM one day and Severance Hall all three days. I chose to shadow her because I would like to either perform professionally or teach private flute and piccolo lessons someday,” shared Kala. Kala contacted Ms. Fink after meeting her last May when The Cleveland Orchestra performed at SJA. “She gave a flute master class and I was very impressed by how well she could play and teach. I wanted to shadow someone who has had a long career in music so that I could learn more about the path to becoming a professional musician. Every day I reported to Severance Hall at 9:30 a.m. to watch rehearsals. Ms. Fink requested I be seated in a box seat! After rehearsals on the first day, I also observed lessons at CIM.” “This experience has shown me how much effort and time goes into being an orchestra member. Every member practices for several hours every day, as well as going to rehearsals and concerts. A lot of work goes into every performance! I was surprised by how normal and friendly everyone was. Although I thought they would be nice, they were much more casual and humble than I expected.” Kala is the granddaughter of Louise Gervasi Seeholzer ’50, daughter of Anne Marie Seeholzer ’76 and sister of Sarah McGinness ’03, Briana McGinness ’04, Alexandra McGinness ’09 and Carissa McGinness ’12.

Mia Fine Mia, who is interested in a communication and social media career, shadowed at Blue Star Design, a creative agency offering graphic design, branding, marketing and web services. “I chose Blue Star because I thought I would be able to work more hands-on at a small business.” “During these three days I got to do a lot of different jobs, including writing posts for their social media accounts, writing and designing a content offer, and working on a blog that was published!” “I was surprised by the amount of planning and research that goes into the social media posts since everything seemed so instantaneous to me,” she added. “I really enjoyed my experience with Junior Professional Shadowing. I didn’t realize how big an impact being able to experience an actual business setting would be when considering a career. I think shadowing has helped me narrow down my decisions, and I can now see myself doing something like this in the future.”

ALUM connections

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CORE Ministry Builds Faith, Nurtures Empathy and Encourages Service

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hether it’s studying scripture, Kairos retreats, tutoring grade school students, or working for peace and justice, students at Saint Joseph Academy are actively strengthening their relationship with God and “serving the dear neighbor without distinction,” as inspired by our founders, the Sisters of the

Students in March for Life rally in Cleveland

Congregation of St. Joseph. The primary mission of CORE (Christian Outreach and Religious Education) Ministry is the faith formation of students. Teachers foster and facilitate

the spiritual growth of the Saint Joseph Academy community through worship, service, retreats and catechesis. “This is accomplished on many levels – reflection, service projects, classroom study, worship – but all efforts lead to the same goal of strengthening a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and creating a firm faith foundation to last a lifetime,” shared CORE Ministry department chair Mary Grace Gutoskey Ogonek ’80. A special component for spiritual reflection for all students is called the Faithfolio. “The Faithfolio were instituted as a way to help students reflect on their religious growth during their four years of Theology,” said Mrs. Ogonek. "Through written reflection and incorporation of media, the students demonstrate their learning and growth in faith throughout the semester. As seniors, students reflect on what they have learned and how they have grown spiritually during the totality of their high school years,” said CORE Ministry teacher Cathy Lanning Knittel ’67. “We have the seniors look at their

L-R: Seniors Caroline Kilbane, Teresa Kelly, Allison Kwan, Mary Therese Boepple, Anna McKenna with former SJA teacher Marietta Starrie, CSJ ’49

journey of faith from freshman year until now,” said Mrs. Knittel. “Self-evaluation and honesty empower them to be open to a world that may present faith challenges. It is our hope and belief that a Saint Joseph Academy graduate will have the tools of personal integrity, emerging wisdom, empathy and service to others as she moves beyond Rocky River Drive. As a department, this selfreflection helps us to measure, at least to some degree, our effectiveness.”

Health Sciences Honors Program Is Thriving

H

ealth science students on a recent trip to the new Center for Innovation in Medical Professions at Cleveland State University (CSU) couldn’t help but be a little taken aback when the plastic-eyed “patients” blinked, their pliable plastic chests moved with ‘breath” and a heartbeat registered on a nearby monitor. “Although obviously sophisticated teaching mannequins, it was incredible,” said Lucy Casper ’18. “It’s almost like they were alive as we worked on them!” Lucy was part of a group of 50 students in the Health Science Honors Program (HSHP) experiencing first-hand the new CSU Center. Other student activities on that field trip included applying sterile dressings; taking vital signs such as blood pressure, respiratory rate, and heart rate; and a clinical simulation scenario in which they worked with a high-tech mannequin ‘patient’ to analyze potential medical problems. 12

Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE

Earlier in the school year, a group of 25 students toured Baldwin Wallace University laboratories, including the plant biology, geology, neuroscience and cadaver rooms. Midwinter, HSHP students explored new technologies and observed the processes of medical innovations at The Cleveland Clinic’s 2015 Medical Innovation Summit, “Memory. Mood. Movement.” The desire to open doors of learning for our young scienceminded students has extended beyond taking advantage of Northeast Ohio’s vast medical community and now includes alumnae sharing their experiences and stories with students. Proud alumnae, such as Elizabeth Looney ’02, a medical school student and recent “25 Under 35” honoree and Sam

Schulte ’10, a pharmacy student, have visited the campus this year to answer questions and give advice. “All of these experiences build students’ confidence in exploring health science careers. The hands-on learning is invaluable,” shared Kelly Gallagher ’09, Health Science Honors Program Coordinator.


Winter Sports This year’s Swimming and Diving Team was very young, with 14 out of 19 swimmers being freshmen or sophomores, but they made great strides throughout the season. Seven swimmers and one diver earned spots at the District meet. The relay of Allison Sheehan ’18, Paola Colon ’19, Rachel Strick

Kelly Shantery ‘16

’17, and Kelly Shantery ’16 (daughter of Barbara Mone Shantery ’83) even came within eight-one hundredths of breaking the Academy’s 200m Medley Relay record. The District Team also consisted of diver Brittany Miller ’18, Kassidy Gartin ’19 (sister of Kayla Gartin ’15), Jada Pacheco ’18 and Julia Patterson ’19. The team had a tough schedule this year, swimming against four teams that placed at the OHSAA State Meet, but it provided great competition. It also helped the swimmers improve each meet as all the Jaguars set personal bests throughout the season. Congratulations to seniors Kelly Shantery, Mariela Harris (daughter of Araceli Quintana Harris ’96) and Sammy Jammal (daughter of Patty Sebesta Jammal ’84) for stellar SJA swimming careers.

Athletes Sign Division I National Letters of Intent Two outstanding senior athletes signed Division I National Letters of Intent. Softball player Elizabeth Enovitch (pictured left) signed with Saint Bonaventure University in Allegany, N.Y., and rower Hannah Simmerly signed with West Virginia University in Morgantown, W.V. Congratulations!

Larry Kasperek/NEOSPRTSPIX

BASKETBALL

SWIMMING

Gia DiMassa ‘17

Varsity finished its strong season with a 15-10 record, playing one of toughest schedules in Northeast Ohio. The season culminated with SJA’s first-ever trip to the District finals, where the season ended. To advance to the District final, the Jaguars had one of the most memorable comebacks in the district semifinal win over Medina when they ran off 32 consecutive points to post a 49-29 win. During the season, the Jaguars topped perennial powers Hathaway Brown, Padua, Walsh Jesuit and Villa Angela-St. Joseph. Sophomore Colleen Neitzel and junior Gia DiMassa earned Honorable Mention AllDistrict honors for their OHSAA tournament performances. Ten of the 11 Varsity players will be back next season. The Jaguars lone senior this season, Rachael Kean, played an instrumental role in the team’s success during her final campaign with the Jaguars. Varsity: 15-10 JV: 12-8 Freshman: 16-4

INDOOR TRACK & FIELD

L-R: Maggie Wagner ’18, Maggie Wagner ’17, Olivia Battistoni ’17, Sydney Seymour ’18 set school record for 4 x 800 meter relay and qualified for state indoor meet

The Indoor Track & Field season saw four school records being broken! Senior Kye Williams broke the oldest record in the high jump. Sophomore Sydney Seymour broke her own record in the 3200 meter run. Sydney and junior Maggie Wagner (granddaughter of Sheila Allen Becker ’54 and daughter of Margaret Becker Wagner ’80) took turns breaking the record in the 1600 meter run with Sydney first breaking it, Maggie later lowering that mark, then finally Sydney re-setting it at the state meet. Additionally the relay team of Sydney, Maggie, junior Olivia Battistoni and sophomore Maggie Wagner (daughter of Karen Lee Wagner ’83) broke a very old 4 x 800 meter relay record and had the 6th best time in the state. Indoor state meet qualifiers were: Kye in the high jump, and Sydney and junior Maggie Wagner in the 1600 meter run, in which Sydney finished 8th with a school record 5:12. Saint Joseph Academy SPRING 2016

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W

e would like to extend a sincere “Thank You!” to all the friends and supporters of Saint Joseph Academy’s “Celebrate the Academy” for making our annual gala a success! The event – attended this year by more than 540 friends of the Academy – is a crucial fundraiser for scholarships and academic initiatives. A net $220,000 was raised, thanks to the generosity of the Saint Joseph Academy community.

Medaille Shield Honorees Barb and Jack Draves P’12 L-R: Student Ambassadors Emma Fox '18 (daughter of Leigh Douglas Fox '87), Hannah Schuette '17, Rachael Urry '18 (daughter of Renee Balaban Urry '83, sister of Rebecca Urry '15)

The Academy Chorale


The amazing evening was crowned by surpassing the $65,000 goal for the SupportA-Student scholarship appeal – a feat met with loud cheers as donations were recorded in real time on a large screen in The Academy Center, while attendees made donations on their mobile devices! In addition, Distinguished Alumna Awardee Cheryl Hagan O’Malley ’77 (see story below) and Medaille Shield recipients Barb and Jack Draves (parents of Morgan Draves ’12) were honored for truly embodying the Saint Joseph Academy spirit and mission. Barb and Jack have been true friends of the Academy throughout the years, assisting with the annual golf outing, serving on the Board of Directors, helping with our recent capital campaign, chairing the 2010 “Celebrate the Academy” gala. Thank you! Also, we would like to share a special thank you to event cochairs Michael and SJA Board of Directors member Lisa Adkins Lonsway ’84 P’18.

Board Chair Tari S. Rivera and husband John

L-R: Student Ambassadors Maggie Sullivan ’17, Frannie Smith ‘17

”Celebrate the Academy“ co-chairs Mike and Lisa Adkins Lonsway ’84, P18

Cheryl Hagan O’Malley ’77 2016 Distinguished Alumna Cheryl Hagan O’Malley ’77 was honored at “Celebrate the Academy” as Saint Joseph Academy’s 2016 Distinguished Alumna. It is a well-deserved honor. Cheryl has been in nursing leadership positions over 30 years, serving the dear neighbor in various positions, starting as a staff charge nurse at St. John Hospital in Cleveland. She is currently Vice President of Medical-Surgical Services, University Hospitals Case Medical Center. Prior to this, she served as Vice President of Patient Care Services/Chief Nursing Officer, St. John Medical Center. Cheryl earned a Bachelor in Psychology from Ursuline College in 1982, then went on to obtain a Bachelor in Nursing in 1984 from Ursuline and a Master in Nursing in 2006 from the University of Phoenix. She expects to graduate in August with a doctorate in nursing practice from the Chamberlain College of Nursing. Living the charism of Saint Joseph

Academy, Cheryl believes her role is that of a servant leader, building relationships with those she serves. A founding Trustee of the Lisa Hagan Berry ’81 Tuition Trust, Cheryl has been instrumental in establishing the Lisa Hagan Berry ’81 Endowed Memorial Scholarship at Saint Joseph Academy. This scholarship has generously provided tuition assistance to nine young women to date in memory of her sister and provides another example of Cheryl’s leadership and dedication to the development of young women to achieve academic excellence. Cheryl attributes what she learned about servant leadership to her years at SJA. As a result, she has been mindful about endorsing these values in her efforts with developing and promoting SJA’s Health Sciences Honors Program. She is also actively involved in the Academy’s annual Women’s Leadership Symposium, returning

President Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis ’71 with Distinguished Alumna honoree Cheryl Hagan O’Malley ’77 and her husband Terry O’Malley.

to her Alma Mater each year to speak to and inspire the students. Cheryl resides in Fairview Park, Ohio, with her husband, Terry O’Malley. The couple has been married for 34 years and has four children: Matthew, 32, Martin, 30, Bridgid, 28, and Sarah, 25. She is the sister of Kellie Hagan King ’78 and the late Lisa Hagan Berry ’81. Saint Joseph Academy SPRING 2016 15


Pictured, l-r: (seated) Ann Quinn Doran ’48, Barbara Kahoun ’53, Nancy Sweeney ’48, In March, members of the Fontbonne Legacy Eileen Murray Dooley T’43. (standing) Mary Ann Fischer ’66, Rita Flanagan ’17, Terri Olschlager Society enjoyed a special luncheon and Mass Shawhan ’65, Kayla Barillas ’16, Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis ’71, Frannie Smith ’17, Cecilia Evers celebrating St. Joseph’s Day. The Fontbonne Heaton ’54, Colleen Conway Cooney, Brittney Ward ’17, John Cooney. Legacy Society recognizes the many wonderfully generous individuals who have included Saint Joseph Academy in their estate plans. With sincere thanks for their generous commitment to ensuring the future of the Academy, members of the Fontbonne Legacy Society are invited to special appreciation events and considered life-time members of the 1890 Society. Interested in this opportunity? Please contact Vice President of Institutional Advancement Constance S. Sipple, CFRE, at csipple@sja1890.org or 216.671.0166.

Building Futures Breakfast More than 120 of Cleveland’s female leaders came together at the Union Club to learn about how they could support Saint Joseph Academy students, the next generation of female leaders, at December’s fourth annual “Building Futures Breakfast.” Guests were invited to volunteer to host a student for her Junior Professional Shadow experience or to speak to students in a class. The event raised more than $29,000 for the scholarship fund. Pictured: Event Co-Chairs and Board members Mary Haas McGraw ’75, P’13 and Kelly Hancock P’17 with student speaker Claudia Gonzalez ’17.

Walk of the Roses R

ecognize a special senior by supporting our ceremonial Walk of the Roses. For the graduation ceremony, each senior carries a beautiful bouquet of red roses from Saint Joseph Academy down Rocky River Drive to Our Lady of Angels Church. Your gift of $50 will allow you to dedicate a message to a specific senior, or simply provide a note of encouragement to a 2016 graduate. To support the Walk of the Roses, donate online at www.sja1890.org/donations or mail your gift to the Development Department, 3470 Rocky River Drive, Cleveland, OH 44111, with the notation “Roses.” 16

Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE


Join the New Alumnae Mentoring Program! Our new Saint Joseph Academy Alumnae Mentoring Program, announced in February, is already gaining momentum as the number of our group of mentors and mentees continues to grow! The goal of this program is to expand our wonderful alumnae community and spread the wealth of wisdom that has been growing for 126 years. Participation in this program allows recent SJA graduates to connect with other alumnae in professional fields ranging from engineering, to health sciences, to visual and performing arts to education. Truly, the learning possibilities are endless! Are you a young alumna navigating your way through their first weeks of college, your first internship or starting a new career? Our mentors are prepared to support you and help with the transition of life beyond SJA. The program is designed to accommodate the schedules for both the mentor and mentee, allowing for flexibility in time, meeting place and frequency. If you are interested in becoming a mentor or mentee, go to the Alumnae Portal (http://www.sja1890.org/pageAlumna) on

Please Help Support the Young Women of Saint Joseph Academy

Mentor Judy Ghazoul Hilow ’81 and Mentee Megan Lowes ‘09

our website and follow these easy steps: complete the “Alumnae Mentoring and Networking Directories” form which can be found by clicking the “Resource” board, then the “Young Alumnae Mentoring Program” and “Alumnae Networking” board. The mission of Saint Joseph Academy is nurturing compassionate leaders. We hope you will join us in fostering the development of our alumnae in college and beyond. If you have questions, please contact Alumnae Director Allison Busser ’04 at abusser@sja1890.org or at 216.619.1653.

Honor a Special Woman with the Perfect Mother’s Day Gift! Having trouble finding the perfect way to show your mother how much you appreciate her? You may wish to consider the gift of a named endowed scholarship. Our endowed scholarship program provides gifts of love with significantly more meaning and staying power than another bouquet of flowers or kitchen gadget! Scholarships can be created with a single gift or through multiple gifts over time. Once gifts total $15,000, the scholarships are paid out in the amount of $500. The feature that most distinguishes named endowed scholarships from other types of donations is that the principal is preserved so the gift – and tribute – lasts in perpetuity, so your mother’s legacy will never be forgotten!

Kayla is a hardworking and engaging young senior here at Saint Joseph Academy. She is involved in the Health Sciences Honor Program, and hopes to attend college to study medicine next year. Kayla, whose parents immigrated from El Salvador, will be the first member of her family to graduate high school and attend college. “My parents came here and sacrificed everything to create a better life for my brother and me,” shares Kayla. “My Dad works in a factory and Mom cleans houses. They both work hard and are exhausted when they get home.” Saint Joseph Academy has earned a special place in Kayla’s heart. “If it weren’t for the gifts that help me receive financial assistance, I wouldn’t be here. I am so grateful. I hope that when I graduate college, I can come back and support the school.” We are grateful for all the ways in which our alumnae and friends support SJA and young women like Kayla. Please consider making a gift to the Annual Fund this spring to provide tuition assistance to students with financial need. Kayla thinks what makes SJA special is the sisterhood she shares with her classmates. We know what makes SJA special is young women like Kayla.

Contact Us To explore the many ways you can make a lasting impact on Saint Joseph Academy, please contact a member of our Institutional Advancement Department for a confidential conversation:

Constance Sipple, CFRE Vice President 216.671.0166 csipple@sja1890.org

Allison Busser ’04 Alumnae Director 216.619.1653 abusser@sja1890.org

Geoff Powers Development Director 216.691.1938 gdpowers@sja1890.org

Saint Joseph Academy SPRING 2016

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Memoriam

Eternal rest grant unto them O, Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace.

Rosemary Juchem Kobylak T’45 on the death of her sister, Ann Juchem. Mary Slattery Dambach ’47 on the death of her son and Patricia Dambach Coreno ’70, Anne Dambach Onusko ’71, Judy Dambach Pik ’72, and Peggy Dambach Koelliker ’73 on the death of their brother, Joseph Dambach. Joan Kennedy Zippay ’47 on the death of her sister, Jeanne Kennedy Weber ’47. Patricia Bauman Sweeney ’48 on the death of her sister, Cecilia Bauman Struze ’43. Joan Dever Conrad ’49 on the death of her husband, Edward Conrad, Jr. Jeanne Pischel Winters ’51 on the death of her sister, Arlene Pischel Cox ’54. Bernardine Kall Caja ’52 on the death of her husband, John Caja. Sr. Ann Kilbane, CSJ ’54, Mary Margaret Kilbane Stearns ’56, Grace Kilbane Stropko ’62, and Patricia Kilbane Geniusz ’67 on the death of their brother, Jack Kilbane. Kathleen Blackwell Gafney ’55 on the death of her sister, Patricia Blackwell ’59. Joan Sabol McGinty ’55 on the death of her husband and Colleen Fahey Bremmer N’80 on the death of her step-father, Francis McGinty. Mary Ellen Canty Sutila ’55 on the death of her husband, Richard Sutila.

Mary Ellen Colbert ’56 on the death of her brother, John Colbert. Sheila Barrett Conlin ’56 on the death of her sister, Delphine Barrett ’53. Joanne R. Cavoli O’Toole ’56 on the death of her husband, Thomas O’Toole. Rosemary O’Donnell Dever ’57 on the death of her brother, John O’Donnell. Barbara Callahan Sponseller ’57 on the death of her twin sister, Beverly Callahan ’57. Carol Onacila Molek ’58 and Marilyn Onacila Kemer ’67 on the death of their brother, John Onacila. Kathleen Schuttenberg Myers ’58 on the death of her husband, Richard Myers. Jacquelyn Hack Plenzler ’58, Patricia Hack Coleman ’67, and Bernadette Hack Hallahan ’69 on the death of their mother, Lucille Hack. Kathleen Royer Patel ’59 on the death of her sister, Patricia Royer. Marilyn Murphy Scullin ’59 on the death of her husband and Brenda Scullin Corley ’56 on the death of her brother, David Scullin. Rosemarie Ruggiero Cassesa N’60 on the death of her daughter, Christine Newmyer. Joan Charvat Bush N’61 and Janet Charvat Hickernell N’67 on the death of their mother, Melba Charvat.

Diane Bonyko Gardner ’63 on the death of her sister, Audrey Bonyko Wolff ’53. Marcelle Plumeck MacMeans N’63 on the death of her sister, Virginia Plumeck Zimmerman N’60. Bonnie Bodis Manco ’64 on the death of her daughter, Marcie Manco. Kathleen Barnett Mickler ’64 and Anne Barnett Serina ’69 on the death of their mother, Julia Barnett.

Margaret Gallagher Emerick N’66 and Deborah Gallagher Ainza ’71 on the death of their mother, Grace Gallagher. Kathleen Opalach O’Connor N’66, Linda Opalach Whapham N’68, and Judith Opalach N’69 on the death of their mother, Eleanor Opalach. Barbara Hand Chakan N’67, Edith Hand Robus N’68, and Linda Hand Duffy N’70 on the death of their brother, Christopher Hand.

Ruth Gunderman Scheib ’64 and Clare Gunderman Delventhal N’73 on the death of their sister, Mary Gunderman Chase ’62.

Rita Mae Ostrowski Schwinn N’67 on the death of her mother, Mary Ostrowski.

The Honorable Maura Corrigan ’65, Colette Corrigan Sirhal ’67, and Patrice Corrigan ’69 on the death of their mother, Mae Corrigan.

Joan Pirosko Sprinkle N’67 on the death of her husband, Jack Sprinkle, and on the death of her brother, Gary Pirosko.

Karen Wiencek Trout ’65 and Nancy Wiencek Murray ’68 on the death of their father, John Wiencek.

Kathleen Higgins N’68 and Colleen Higgins Solis N’76 on the death of their mother, Virginia Higgins.

Joan Vavrus Wheeler ’65, Karen Vavrus Glasenapp ’67, and Diane Vavrus Grohe ’68 on the death of their father, Joseph Vavrus. Gail Lime Hawkins N’65 on the death of her mother, Gladys Lime. Louise Bednarik Zullo ’66 on the death of her mother, Stella Bednarik. Patricia Sullivan Clesh N’66, Kathleen Sullivan Godic N’69, and Colleen Sullivan Gretchko N’75 on the death of their sister, Mary Ellen Sullivan Bernhardy N’67.

Anne O’Neill Hensley ’69, Lucia O’Neill ’70, and Maria O’Neill ’72 on the death of their father, Edward O’Neill. Maureen Brady Johnson ’69, Kathleen Brady-Wiesler ’70, and Colleen Brady ’75 on the death of their mother, Rita Brady. Janet DeMichael Eitel N’69 on the death of her sister, Barbara DeMichael Fahey N’66. Margaret Campagna Ferfolia N’69 on the death of her father, Joseph Campagna. Susan Urban N’70 and Elizabeth Urban Vertock N’75 on the death of their mother, Rose Urban.

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Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE


Linda Korosi ’71 and Kathleen Korosi Reid ’80 on the death of their father, William Korosi.

Kellie Hagan King ’78 on the death of her husband, Thomas King.

Susan Dennis Simpson ’87 on the death of her sister, Sheila Dennis Beaule ’92.

Linda Kolarik Koch ’72 on the death of her mother, Lillian Kolarik.

Lynn Schuler Moore ’78 and Kathleen Schuler Russo ’83 on the death of their father, Arthur Schuler.

Kathleen McGowan Brezine ’88, Maureen McGowan Hansen ’89, Margaret McGowan Murray ’92, and Bridget McGowan Gorman ’99 on the death of their father, Thomas McGowan.

Maria O’Neill ’72 on the death of her husband, William Stachowiak. Mary Jo Lapp ’73 and Anna Marie Lapp Taylor ’73 on the death of their father, Edward Lapp.

Susan O’Reilly ’79, Amy O’Reilly ’84, and Molly O’Reilly Brunori ’86 on the death of their mother, Mary Ann Devaty O’Reilly ’57.

Mary Ellen Kurz Heller-Britton ’74 on the death of her father, Ronald Kurz.

Laura McEvoy Martin ’80 on the death of her brother, Robert McEvoy.

Joan Ropelewski Sichau ’75 on the death of her mother and Marie Henke Roth ’54, Josie Henke Gaughan ’61, and Therese Henke Ulery ’61 on the death of their sister, Matilda Ropelewski.

Michelle Barrett Anselmo ’81 on the death of her father, Michael Barrett.

Jean Scherry Holloway N’75 on the death of her father and Angela Scherry Liberatore ’54 on the death of her brother, Eugene Scherry. Ria Heibili Juris ’76 on the death of her father, Thomas Heibili. Denise Miller Mobley ’76 and Diane Miller Turner ’82 on the death of their mother, Rita Granzeier Miller ’48. Linda McNamara SpencerWilamosky ’76 on the death of her husband, Ronald Wilamosky. Anne Reitz Ellett N’76 and Eileen Reitz Miller N’77 on the death of their father and Rita Reitz Zak N’61 on the death of her brother, Robert Reitz. Leslie Gerbec Park ’77 and Laurie Gerbec Spreng ’81 on the death of their brother, Jay Gerbec.

Maureen Mulgrew Murdock ’81 on the death of her brother, John Mulgrew. Margaret Hering Rininger ’81 on the death of her father, Martin Hering. Christine Vokaty Becker ’82 on the death of her father, Leonard Vokaty, Sr. Therese Caffrey ’82, Diane Caffrey Wallace ’83, Kathleen Caffrey ’85, Lynne Caffrey Zucker ’88, and Jennifer Caffrey ’89 on the death of their father, Robert Caffrey. Kathy Macecevic Duelley ’83 on the death of her mother, Barbara Macecevic. Wendy Cornell Spencer ’83 and Lisa Cornell Chambers ’86 on the death of their sister, Catherine Cornell-White.

Rosemary Foldi Gheen ’89 on the death of her mother and Eileen Anthony, SJA Guidance Department Administrative Assistant, on the death of her sister, Roseann Foldi. Victoria Roemer ’89 on the death of her father, Ronald Roemer. Theresa Chatlos ’90 on the death of her mother, Sally Chatlos. Lori Jamiol-Reese ’00 and Jodi Jamiol Sporcich ’03 on the death of their father and Odette Jamiol Zakowski ’70 on the death of her brother, Richard Jamiol.

Morgan Grapentine ’01, Carmen Grapentine ’06, and Lauren Grapentine ’07 on the death of their father, Richard Grapentine, Jr. Katie Conroy Heitz ’02 on the death of her sister, Michelle Conroy Baumbarger ’04. Natalie Fox ’04 on the death of her father, Steve Fox. Emily Cunningham Millay ’04 and Anna Cunningham ’10 on the death of their father, Jeffrey Cunningham. Sarah Roman ’10 and Michelle Roman ’13 on the death of their father, Anthony Roman. Katherine Waters ’14 on the death of her brother, Michael Waters. Alyssa Perry ’19 on the death of her mother, Lekesha Brown. We extend our sympathy to Tammy Sparks, Visual/Performing Arts teacher at Saint Joseph Academy, on the death of her mother, Lucy Cline.

Please remember in your prayers the following deceased alumnae: Marian Smith Plagman ’37 Rose Detzel Bennett T’39 Ann Keane Bertke T’39 Margaret Wagner Baxendale ’40 Cecilia Bauman Struze ’43 Bonnie Aspery Branch ’46 Jeanne Kennedy Weber ’47 Sr. Pat Burke, CSJ ’48 Rita Granzeier Miller ’48 Eva Kern Giermann ’49 Rita Hayes Wicktora ’49 Anne Knoerle Schram ’51 Delphine Barrett ’53 Audrey Bonyko Wolff ’53

Arlene Pischel Cox ’54 Beverly Callahan ’57 Kathleen Caffrey Miller ’57 Mary Ann Devaty O’Reilly ’57 Mary Ann Binkley Shirak ’57 Patricia Blackwell ’59 Virginia Plumeck Zimmerman N’60 Mary Gunderman Chase ’62 Dolores Mihalko Collins ’64 Nancy Javorka Weitzel N’64 Barbara DeMichael Fahey N’66 Mary Ellen Sullivan Bernhardy N’67 Mary LiPera Bonnell N’68 Sheila Dennis Beaule ’92 Michelle Conroy Baumbarger ’04

Saint Joseph Academy SPRING 2016

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Beyonds Alumnae

1970s

Anne Hydock ’75 was awarded the Achievement in Excellence Award from the Akron/Canton affiliate of the National Sales & Marketing Executives association (NSME). She was chosen from 144 applicants based on career accomplishments and exceptional customer service. Anne and 29 other marketing and sales professionals were recognized at the 44th Annual Accent on Excellence Awards, sponsored in part by Crain’s Akron Business. Laura Jansen Howerton ’76 was chosen by Dental Products Report as one of the “Top 25 Women in Dentistry for 2015.” For the past six years, DPR has recognized a group of women who have made contributions to Dentistry. Laura has been in dental Laura Jansen Howerton hygiene and dental education for nearly 30 years, including at The Ohio State University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Debbie Wolfe Korce ’76 has received the 2016 Lady of the Year Award from the North Olmsted Council 4731 Knights of Columbus. She has volunteered with the Knights of Columbus for more than 30 years.

1980s

Shelly Pearson Thomas ’88 was selected as Certified Hospice and Palliative Licensed Nurse of the Year by the American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine. Shelly currently works at Hospice of the Western Reserve. Her wonderful and selfless contributions to the field of hospice and palliative care are second to none. Judy Ghazoul Hilow ’81 is now the Executive Director of Malachi House.

1990s

Lisa Noble ’91 earned her Master in Education from Cleveland State University, and has accepted a new teaching position with the Gila Bend Unified School District in Avondale, Arizona. Emily Hanson ’99 has been named Principal of Archbishop Hoban High School in Akron, starting in the 2016-17 academic year. Emily joined the SJA faculty after earning her undergraduate degree from Miami University in 2003. She also has served as Dean of Women and Assistant Principal. Emily earned her Master of Education from Ursuline College in 2007.

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Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE

2000s

Caroline Kelly Kessler ’00 has relocated back to the Cleveland area after living in Chicago for the past 10 years. She works at The Cleveland Clinic as Program Coordinator for the Emergency Management Program. Previously, Caroline was Manager of Emergency Management and Safety at Northwestern Memorial Healthcare in Chicago. Ellen Kupchik ’01, after earning a Master in English Education from Canisius College, taught 12th grade English in a suburb of Baltimore for four years. She is now in her second year of teaching English at Luanda International School, which has an International Baccalaureate Programme, in Angola, Africa. Rebecca Ivic Britt ’02 received her Ph.D. in Health Communication from Purdue University in 2012. Since then, she has gone on to work as tenure-track Assistant Professor at South Dakota State University, where she conducts research and creates advocacy campaigns that serve rural and underserved communities, such as local Native American tribes and young women in medically-underserved counties, to bring greater access to healthcare. She has published over 24 articles and presented at 45 conferences across the nation. Rebecca’s grant support for health communication research totals over $170,000. She also teaches courses at SDSU in graphic design and health communication to undergraduate and graduate students. Rebecca cites her success largely to the support she received at Saint Joseph Academy!

Amanda Mrozinski Wunderle ’05 married Matthew Wunderle in Cleveland, Ohio on October 17, 2015. Randi Mino ’05, Amanda Ohneth ’05, Kelley Reddy Geisler ’05, and Jessica Schuler ’17 were bridesmaids. Shannon Stojkov Badzinski ’06 married John Badzinski on October 23, 2015. Hannah Allard Kozee ’07 married Troy Kozee on January 2, 2016. Katherine Bej ’09 is a third-year student at the Pennsylvania College of Optometry outside Philadelphia. She recently had the opportunity to “serve the dear neighbor” by participating in a mission trip to Cap-Haitien, Haiti with 17 other classmates as members of SOSH – Student Optometric Service to Humanity. The group saw over 13,000 patients in four days, providing glasses, medication, and referrals for surgery. Megan Lowes ’09 is now a Pastoral Associate at Saint Clarence Parish in North Olmsted, Ohio. Lauren Kluth ’09 is the creator of CLE Seats, a new website where each week, local restaurants upload their food specials, happy hours, live entertainment, and all upcoming events.

2010s

Katie Speice ’12 was awarded Woman of the Year from her sorority, Chi Omega, due to her high academic honors and leadership roles in her sorority, as well as in the Ohio University Panhellenic Organization.

Maggie Sabolik Soucek ’03 married Brian Soucek on October 10, 2015. Sarah Kalt Frey ’02 was her maid of honor.

Rose Urankar ’12 starred as Millie Dillmount in the University of Notre Dame’s production of Thoroughly Modern Millie.

Emily Cunningham Millay ’04 has her own photography business, Emily Millay Photography, and was voted one of the best wedding photographers in Cleveland for the 3rd year in a row. She attended the Columbus College of Art and Design.

Caroline Speice ’13 received the Walter M. Rudin Junior Award from The Fisher School of Business at The Ohio State University. This award is presented each year to the most outstanding junior undergraduate student in the college. Established in 1982, the award is given in recognition of both academic and leadership excellence.

Hallie Peck Normando ’04 married Brent Normando on October 10, 2015. Allison Jarus McGlynn ’05 married Rory McGlynn in Cleveland, Ohio on October 10, 2015.

Allison Jarus McGlynn ’05 wedding, l-r: Class of 2005 friends Caitlin Smith, Meghan Fibbi, Bridget McNeeley, Allison Jarus McGlynn, Colleen Edgehouse, Mary Leciejewski, Megan Brennan and Molly Delia

Emily Rouse ’14 was one of five accounting students from The Ohio State University Fisher College of Business to win a regional competition, topping teams from five other universities, as part of Deloitte’s FanTAXtic Case Competition.

Caroline Speice

Emily Rouse


CubClub Angela Tutak Davis ’95 & Bob Davis a son, Benjamin Luke, born December 8, 2015 Jeannie Gedra De Monte ’99 & Rollie De Monte a daughter, Vivien Therese, born December 5, 2015

SAINT JOSEPH ACADEMY

Amelia Castelli Ballenilla ’00 & Carlos Ballenilla a son, Giancarlo Matteo, born July 2, 2015 Genie Reeves Goricki ’00 & Robert Goricki a son, Charles Revere, born December 1, 2015 Jacquelyn Adamich Hock ’02 & Matthew Hock a daughter, Brooke Anne, born September 3, 2015 Leah Baxendale Kozlowski ’03 & Joseph Kozlowski a daughter, Emma Margaret, born December 27, 2015 Suzie Martens Schmitmeyer ’03 & John Schmitmeyer a son, George Simon, born September 1, 2015 Meg Mayer Gaskin ’04 & Mike Gaskin a son, Conor Michael, born January 26, 2016 Julie Liebenguth McGoun ’04 & Pat McGoun a son, Nicholas Patrick, born January 25, 2016 Elizabeth Nagy Bellomy ’09 & Jon Bellomy a son, Gideon Caleb

SUMMER CAMPS Discover.

Learn. GROW.

JUNE 16-19 BASKETBALL • JUNE 16-20 GARDEN SCULPTURE ART CAMP • JUNE 16-19 SOCCER

DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY June 13-17 SOCCER July 11-15 BASKETBALL June 13-16 CREW July 11-15 JUNE 23-26 P.L.A.Y. (PARTICIPATE. LEARN. ACHIEVE. FOR YOU) SPORTS • JULY 7-11 CREW CAMP #1 SUMMER ENRICHMENT June 13-July 1 RUGBY July 18-21 DIGITAL 20 -24 AND ALIVE INCROSS COUNTRY July 18-21 JULYPHOTOGRAPHY 7-11 HEARTS (HEARTSJune EMPOWERED RELATIONSHIP, THANKSGIVING AND SERVICE) TENNIS June 20-23 THEATER: PRINCESS CAMP 25-29 JULY 14-16 GOLF • JULY 14-17 CROSS COUNTRY • JULY 21-25 CREW CAMP #2 • JULY 21-25July LEADERSHIP VOLLEYBALL June 20-23 CAMP LEAD July 18-22 JULY 21-24 RUGBY • JULY 28-AUGUST 1 GREAT LAKES SCIENCE • AUGUST 4-8 SJA MUSIC SHOWCASE GOLF June 27-29 ART - ALL ABOUT ME! July 25-29 AUGUST DISCOVER THEATER AUGUST 11-15 MUSIC &THEATER CREW 4-8 June 20-24THE WORLD LANGUAGES • AUGUST 11-15 CREW July •25-29 GOLF June 27-29 LACROSSE July 25-29 MUSICAL THEATER July 25- Aug 5

JUNE 16-JULY 3 SUMMER ENRICHMENT • JUNE 23-26 VOLLEYBALL • JUNE 23-27 CREATIVE DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY

For more information about our summer camps or to register, visit www.sja1890.org/summercamps

EARN Y UR SP TS Jaguar 5K Race/1 Mile Walk for Saint Joseph Academy

SAINT JOSEPH ACADEMY 3470 ROCKY RIVER DRIVE CLEVELAND, OH 44111

MONDAY, MAY 30 AT 9 A.M.

PRE-REGISTRATION | $25

(Thru Friday, May 27 at 9 a.m.)

For Online Race Registration visit

www.hermescleveland.com Questions? Call 216.623.9933

SJA STUDENT | $15

(Pre-Registration only)

RACE DAY REGISTRATION | $30

For MORE INFOrMATION

www.sja1890.org/earnyourspots Saint Joseph Academy SPRING 2016

21


Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Cleveland, OH Permit No. 912

Saint Joseph Academy 3470 Rocky River Drive Cleveland, Ohio 44111 www.sja1890.org Dated Material

PARENTS OF ALUMNAE: If this publication is addressed to your daughter who no longer maintains a permanent address at your home, please notify the Alumnae Office at 216.251.6788 x221, or write to us at Saint Joseph Academy, 3470 Rocky River Drive, Cleveland, Ohio 44111. In an effort to be good stewards of both the environment and your generous contributions, we are now sending only one magazine per household.

LOOKINGAHEAD Spring Scholarship Luncheon

Golf Outing

Please join us on Wednesday, May 4, 2016 for the annual Spring Scholarship Luncheon to support the students of Saint Joseph Academy. This popular event will once again be held at the Westwood Country Club. Bring a friend, enjoy a delicious luncheon and participate in a raffle benefitting the SJA Scholarship Fund.

Our 22nd Annual Golf Outing to benefit the SJA Scholarship Fund will be on Saturday, July 30, 2016 at a new location, Sweetbriar Golf Course in Avon Lake, Ohio. This day includes lunch, dinner, contests, raffles, and of course, 18 holes of golf with a cart (shot-gun start, scramble format). Please mark your calendar and join in the fun!

Senior Farewell Mass & Alumnae Induction

Grand Reunion

All alumnae are invited to attend the Senior Farewell Mass & Alumnae Induction on May 27, 2016 at 12:30 p.m. at Our Lady of Angels Church. Alumnae who attend will participate in a ceremony to welcome the Class of 2016 into the Alumnae Association. For more information or to reserve a spot, please email Alumnae and Special Events Coordinator Betty Hjort at bhjort@sja1890.org.

Are you a Saint Joseph Academy alumna who graduated in a year ending in 6 or 1? If so, mark your calendar for the weekend of October 7-9, 2016 to celebrate your Grand Reunion! Please watch your mail for more information and spread the word to your classmates. If you know of any classmates who have not been receiving mailings from SJA, please encourage them to update their contact information by calling the Alumnae Office at 216-251-6788 Ext. 245 or visiting our website, www.sja1890.org.

‘25 Under 35’ Awards Ceremony This exciting event to be held on Saturday, June 18, 2016 celebrates 25 of the Academy’s alumnae who have gone above and beyond in their personal and professional endeavors since graduation. Honorees are chosen for their achievements, compassionate leadership and service. They are living the Academy mission and the charism embodied by SJA’s founders and sponsors, the Sisters of the Congregation of St. Joseph. Please visit www.sja1890.org/25under35 for more information.

For more information on all these events, please contact Alumnae and Special Events Coordinator Betty Hjort at 216.251.6788 x245 or bhjort@sja1890.org.


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Update Magazine: Spring 2016 by Saint Joseph Academy - Issuu