Sharing a Tradition of Excellence with Alumnae, Parents and Friends • www.sja1890.org • FALL 2020
“Walk of the Roses”
Saint Joseph Academy FALL 2020
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Letter from the President 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, Kathy Flinn, Erin Grace, John Manuszak, Laura McCarty Waryk ’07, Nikki Mohar, Tammi Olle P’12 & ’23, Kathryn Purcell, Mackenzie Schuler, Constance S. Sipple, CFRE and Jeff Sutliff. Photography courtesy is extended to: Jeff Downie, Aaron Josefczyk, Laura McCarty Waryk ’07, Mackenzie Schuler and Ripcho Studios. For more information, please contact Communications Manager Mackenzie Schuler at 216.251.6788 or mschuler@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: Seniors celebrate the “Walk of the Roses”
• N – Nazareth alumna • T – St. Therese alumna • P – Parent of current SJA student • † – Deceased
A Saint Joseph Academy education is a faith-filled experience dedicated to developing intellectually and spiritually capable young women who have the confidence to embrace challenges, use their voices and thrive regardless of the circumstances. We want our young women to become compassionate leaders who discover their own strengths, learn how to develop them and apply them in the service of meaningful goals. They need to know how to take care of themselves and serve the dear neighbor, look to others when needed, listen without judgement and seek diverse solutions. Saint Joseph Academy strives to build resilience in our young women, as we know that they will need it as the leaders of tomorrow. The students, faculty and staff of Saint Joseph Academy were flexible after being sent home during the spring of 2020. Students adjusted to the remote learning environment; they supported one another socially and emotionally; they created new ways to communicate. The faculty and staff proved that they too were adaptable and responsive last spring by adjusting to the new needs and reinventing nearly everything that happens in school. Creativity, growth mindset and purpose fueled the community. The faculty and staff served as models of Emerging Wisdom as they broadened their practices and embraced change, a key attribute of our Character of a Saint Joseph Academy Graduate. This issue of UPDATE highlights the resilience and Emerging Wisdom that characterized the spring and summer. You will learn about how traditions like Prom, the “Walk of the Roses” and other events for the Class of 2020 were adjusted so that these students and their families could experience these cherished events while still keeping our community’s health and safety a priority; you will learn about how students served the dear neighbor in the midst of stay at home orders; and you will read how our athletes shifted how they trained and practiced this summer with new rules and protocols. These adaptations and need for flexibility, humility and resilience continue into this academic school year. Faculty and staff have worked all summer to design return to campus plans that enable our young women to be back to school in person even if not every day. In addition, students are participating in athletics and planning for performing arts celebrations. We are blessed that Fitzmaurice Hall and the new Makerspace innovation lab are ready and offer much needed space for the new demands of social distance. Without those gifts, we would not be able to begin school as we are. Maxim 70 states: “Trust God’s timing. The future will unfold.” We are following that great directive. We know that facing the challenges of COVID-19 head on will serve us well in the long run as our education has served our alumnae for generations. We see the outcomes of a Saint Joseph Academy education in the stories of our “25 Under 35” honorees. These remarkable alumnae continue to share their gifts within their professions and with their communities. We are so very proud of them! This year’s theme is “Women of Unifying Love.” It reflects the charism and spirituality of the Sisters of the Congregation of St. Joseph. Our “Character of a Saint Joseph Academy Graduate” statement describes unifying love as, “Nourished by prayer, scripture and the sacraments, she exhibits inclusivity, mutuality and oneness in relationships with God, others and the Earth.” God’s call to unifying love is a call to move forward to greater union with God and all creation. This theme is integrated into the Academy’s summer reading assignment, classroom pedagogy and service learning opportunities. It is a timely theme and will help us to direct our attention to the needs of each individual entrusted in our care. Thank you for your confidence in Saint Joseph Academy and your tremendous support of the young women of the Academy. I am immeasurably proud to be a part of this great academic institution and look forward to learning much more about the charism of the Sisters of the Congregation of St. Joseph and experiencing it firsthand here on campus. While continuing to help the young women of Saint Joseph Academy deepen their relationships with God and achieve their personal best, we will navigate this global pandemic with resilience, with each other and with our faith in tow! With gratitude,
Kathryn H. Purcell
New Fitzmaurice Hall and Expanded Makerspace Innovation Lab Inspire Ingenuity
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n the middle of June, Saint Joseph Academy officially opened its doors to the newly renovated Fitzmaurice Hall, an adaptive reuse of a storied building where the Sisters of the Congregation of St. Joseph lived, worked and prayed for more than 100 years. With this expansion, Fitzmaurice Hall provides an additional 24,000 square feet and 10 new classrooms. The ground floor is the new home of our CORE Ministry/Theology program, giving these teachers more space to support and guide students’ spiritual growth. The main (first) floor serves as the new home for our Social Studies programs, infusing students’ learning about the world with the values that will help them make a difference in it. This historic building incorporates new and contemporary elements while still paying homage to Saint Joseph Academy sponsors, the Sisters of the Congregation of St. Joseph. Historical reference can be found
Brennan Commons, the main entrance of Fitzmaurice Hall
in many places, including art in the prayer rooms and the Grand Staircase, where the statue of The Risen Christ from the former private Chapel of the Sisters is now visible for all to see and other pieces throughout the building. During the construction there was a serendipitous moment when the demolition crew unearthed columns that had been covered in plaster. These columns that had once flanked the altar in the Chapel in the Motherhouse were restored to their previous beautiful ornate state and are now an architectural feature in one of the Social Studies/Humanities classrooms. On both floors, exterior classroom walls feature frosted lace. The design seen on the glass walls throughout the building is a reference to the work of the first Sisters of St. Joseph in France, who taught widows
The Maxim Wall features maxims designed by our alumnae
and women in need how to make lace as a dignified way of providing for themselves and their children. Its presence in Fitzmaurice Hall represents the beautiful way that we are woven together as a community, with each person like an individual thread. Another way Fitzmaurice Hall honors the Sisters of St. Joseph is the Maxim Wall. Located on the ground floor in the Conrad Family Commons, the wall showcases inspirational phrases (known as the Maxims of the Little Institute). To help share faith, hope and encouragement to others, Father Médaille, S.J., developed a series of 100 maxims, or thoughts, to guide the first Sisters. The maxims were based on the values and virtues found in the Gospel readings. On the large Maxim Wall are a few of these sayings, which encourage love, kindness and a sense of perspective. A few of our alumnae selected a Maxim that spoke to them and then created a design to represent them. These talented women who have careers in art and design include: Brianna Dombo ’13, Mary Kate Healey ’13, Holly Hamlin ’11, Hannah Flanagan ’10 and Laura McCarty Waryk ’07. This summer, construction also began to expand the Makerspace innovation lab in the Academy building. The new Makerspace innovation lab has expanded to 4,800 square feet, more than four times the size of the former space. This expanded area creates a
hands-on area for students to activate their imaginations and bring their ideas to life. Later an additional 8,400 square feet will be added for the fitness, athletic and performing arts programs, and student commons. These expansions and renovations are a part of the “With Lifted Hearts” capital campaign. This exciting campaign builds on the strengths of what sets the Academy apart, while giving our students and faculty the facilities they need and creating a campus where ingenuity, artistry and spirituality can truly flourish. This campaign is in response
Columns that were uncovered and had once flanked the altar in the Worship Space were restored
to a time of need – a time that demands compassionate female leaders who can create, innovate and transform our world for the better. We have an extraordinary opportunity to ensure that Saint Joseph Academy’s most impactful years are still ahead. If you are interested in learning more about the “With Lifted Hearts” campaign, please visit www. sja1890.org/giving/with-lifted-hearts. Saint Joseph Academy FALL 2020
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Kathryn Purcell!
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n July 1, Kathryn Purcell was warmly welcomed into her new role as President of Saint Joseph Academy. She is thrilled to further immerse herself into our community and is eager to lead the Academy forward. Kathryn is passionate about the Saint Joseph Academy mission, rooted in the charism of the Sisters of the Congregation of St. Joseph. Kathryn is not only a lifelong educator and leader, she’s also a self-proclaimed “girls’ school advocate.” She’s seen first-hand how this type of education can help young women grow as individuals and members of a community – and she’s experienced the outcomes from many perspectives: as a student, parent, teacher and administrator. “For me, attending an all-girls’ high school was a transformative educational experience. I was challenged academically and personally, yet my teachers were always there to cheer me on. All-girls’ schools share ideals and values that truly set them apart.” Her point-of-view is influenced heavily by her 24-year tenure at Laurel School, where she dedicated her career to the advancement of all-girls’ education and sought out leadership roles that positioned her to make the most difference. Kathryn began her career as a science teacher and volleyball coach, leading young women both in and out of the classroom. She quickly moved into administrative roles at the school, serving as Dean of Students, Co-Director of the Upper School and eventually becoming the Associate Head of School. It was in this role that Purcell was instrumental in both the school’s daily operations and the long-term strategic vision. Her input and leadership helped with the creation, communication and execution of Laurel’s five-year roadmap. As a member of the school’s Finance Committee and Senior Strategy team, she also directly impacted the business side of the school, from attracting students to assuring financial stewardship. At Laurel, Purcell worked with senior leaders who viewed themselves as educators before anything else. This mentoring influences her today and helps her strike the critical balance needed as Saint Joseph 2
Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE
Academy’s President: to be an educational advocate as well as an administrative leader; to collaborate with faculty and staff while making decisions that are critical to the future. As Kathryn Purcell ushers Saint Joseph Academy into its next chapter, it’s these qualities that will help her stand apart as a leader. “I love leading in an academic environment, and I work hard, as a servant leader, and try to listen and be fair. I believe that every living being is valuable and deserves respect and dignity. I am very interested in how we signal that everyone belongs in our community, day in and day out. Given that I come from an all girls’ school where history and tradition is valued, I also know that the superb education and long-standing traditions at Saint Joseph Academy deserve to be celebrated and protected.” Yet, as a Saint Joseph Academy Jaguar, she sees one other quality that will help differentiate her: “I love being in schools; I love the atmosphere and the laughter. I’m also quite loud at sporting events. I definitely stand out in my enthusiasm.” Kathryn Purcell holds a master of arts in education from Ursuline College and a bachelor degree from John Carroll University. Wife and the mother of four, she and her family are parishioners at the Church of the Gesu. We are excited to have her expertise and passion as we begin a new chapter under her leadership at Saint Joseph Academy!
Three Seniors Receive Prestigious Engineering Honors
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hree members of the Class of 2020 received prestigious engineeringrelated awards that will enable them to pursue great opportunities that advance their interest in STEM! Seniors Reagan Bushok and Tatiana Lipert were selected by Parker Hannifin Corporation as the 2020 recipients of their college scholarships. These scholarships are awarded to graduating seniors planning on pursuing a career in engineering, engineering technology and/or computer science and also include paid internships beginning the summer of 2021. Reagan and Tatiana are the fifth and sixth Saint Joseph Academy seniors to win this coveted scholarship since our partnership with Parker Hannifin began in 2015. Reagan committed to Purdue University to pursue engineering and Tatiana enrolled in the Honors Tutorial College at Ohio University for computer science. Rhi Scebbi ’20 was honored with the Women’s Transportation Seminar’s National Scholarship. Women’s Transportation Seminar (WTS) is an international organization that fosters the development of women and girls in the transportation field by encouraging
Reagan Bushok
Tatiana Lipert
Rhi Scebbi
new professionals and students to undertake careers in this area. WTS is connected to a network of 40,000 transportation engineering professionals across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. “This organization is very important to me because it has provided me with several opportunities in the engineering field. Over the summer, I had the opportunity to go to Washington, D.C. for the WTS Transportation You 2019 Summit. At this three-day conference, I was among 16 girls from across the country who learned from women in transportation engineering through keynote speeches, hands-on activities and networking. This experience has allowed me to make many connections with engineering professionals and gain knowledge in several
different fields of engineering. Throughout my four years at Saint Joseph Academy, I have followed an engineering-related path. I have taken Honors Introduction to PreEngineering, Honors Independent Study in Engineering, and Honors Topics in Pre-Engineering and Programming. These courses, along with the help and guidance of Science teacher Mr. Bryce Ormiston, have sparked my interest in engineering,” stated Rhi. In light of current COVID-19 restrictions, she accepted this prestigious award via teleconference in mid-May. She will be attending The University of Akron to major in Civil Engineering. Congratulations, Reagan, Tatiana and Rhi on your well-deserved honors!
We were also reminded of the importance of our partnership with families and the need to be flexible as we creatively and persistently responded to new challenges. For example, Commencement, Prom and “Walk of the Roses” could not have happened for the Class of 2020 without the innovation, effort and prayer of the entire community. We remain committed to preserving the sacred traditions that define the Saint Joseph Academy experience for our students and their families. Just like classroom instruction, our community rituals may take new forms, but relationships remain at the heart of all we do. As we returned to campus for the 20202021 school year with students learning both on campus and remotely, we embrace the challenges of our new “normal” and strive to do our best in all things. We’ve implemented a flexible master schedule that provides an opportunity to build and maintain relationships with safe and healthy social distance. The timing of the Congregation of St. Joseph’s gift of the additional learning
spaces of Fitzmaurice Hall and the generosity of our benefactors at this critical time in the history of our school reminds us that God is with us at all times. Six months ago, we didn’t imagine that we’d need more space to meet the challenges of a global pandemic, yet God anticipates our needs and answers prayers before we ask them. As people of faith, we are people of hope. We are strengthened by the knowledge that God will continue to provide us the resources we need. And, as divine beings created in God’s own image, God empowers us to create beauty in new forms, to invent new technologies, and to discover solutions to problems both anticipated and unanticipated. We have the capacity and the calling to make manifest a more perfect, more unified world, “that all may be one.”
PRINCIPAL’S CORNER: Maxim 2 of the Congregation of St. Joseph calls us to strive to do our best in all things, to be who God created us to be. The Sisters refer to this as a call to “the more.” As our school community strives to do our best in all things, we reflect deeply on the lessons we learned in the spring. When we listened to our families, students and recalled on our own experiences teaching in a remote setting, consistent themes emerged: • Strong relationships and community must be prioritized. • Live, in-person instruction during periods of remote learning is essential. • Time management and communication skills must be nurtured in our students. • Faculty and staff need to strengthen and streamline communication to students and families.
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Instructional CONTINUITY B
y the time you receive this issue of UPDATE magazine, it’s difficult to say what will have transpired. The COVID-19 pandemic has changed every facet of our lives. While we understand how uncertain this time period has been, Saint Joseph Academy gleaned insights into what is truly essential in our community. The uncertainty of COVID-19 can be unsettling and stressful. At Saint Joseph Academy, the mission of fostering unifying relationships with God and all creation, empowering each young woman to achieve academic excellence and inspiring a life of compassionate leadership and service in a global society is essential and vital to the greater community. Our community rose to the challenge of being able to provide a high-quality remote learning experience. The Academic Planning Team collaborated with the faculty to determine how to transition teaching to virtual classrooms. Faculty held a Professional Development Day in March,
Self-portrait by Ellie Schauer '20
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Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE
covering Zoom, Google tutorials, online engagement and assessments, department collaboration, as well as roundtable discussions and sharing best practices. Beyond the sharing of various technology tools, there were other equally important concerns, including how to continue creating community and helping students take care of their bodies, minds and spirits. Staff members began making calls to each family to check in and see how their daughter was adjusting to remote instruction. CORE Ministry hosted a virtual prayer service entitled “Faith in Times of Uncertainty” to encourage faith building. The Wellness Program offered activities to promote physical and emotional health, encouraging students to participate in free yoga and barre classes. There was a desire to keep students’ remote learning as similar as possible as if they would have been learning in person. The Saint Joseph Academy YouTube Digital Channel was created as a central location for the morning video announcements and prayers from faculty and staff, and daily good morning videos from Principal Mr. Jeff Sutliff. To continue to build engagement within the community, videos were created to highlight our Performing and Visual Arts Departments, as well as our volleyball and softball teams. Academy Ambassadors created videos for the Class of 2024. Students and faculty creatively came together to hold a virtual Paws for Pride spirit week, which included dress up days, students, faculty and staff talent show and Zoom dance parties. Saint Joseph Academy was aware that students may lose internet access or have other personal issues while holding them accountable for work. We
Self-portrait created by Antonia DiGiacomo ’20
are thankful that each student is provided a Google Chromebook, which made it easier for our students to fully transition to a virtual classroom. During stay at home orders, the Academy contacted families to ensure homes had internet connection. While the transition of assignments, group projects, exams and video lectures required a significant change, faculty developed new plans that nurtured relationships and leveraged technology while adapting to meet the needs of their classes. Students attended each of their classes virtually for an hour, and faculty members held virtual office hours to provide support to students. The pandemic manifested in some of the most innovative teaching and learning our community has ever experienced. Saint Joseph Academy’s Flexible Plan for Instructional Continuity Program illuminated the strengths of our teaching staff. Faculty and students alike were challenged to collaborate and creatively problem solve. Virtual learning posed a particular challenge for Graphic Design teacher Mrs. Beth Pleban and Digital Photography teacher Mr. Pete Nezovich. Students in these disciplines are taught
Celebrating Retirees Who Made an Impact on the Academy
W using the Adobe Creative Cloud software installed on computers in the Academy’s Mac lab. Students’ Chromebooks did not have access to the software which was needed for coursework. It required out-of-the-box thinking to find a way to teach a software based class without the required software. As a creative problemsolver, Mrs. Pleban found an online software that mimics Adobe Photoshop that she had to learn first before she could teach students during this time. “Students rolled with the punches and took to the new virtual graphic design very well! I was able to Google Meet with my independent students to hold critiques,” shared Mrs. Pleban. Although the Taipei, Taiwan trip to visit Blessed Imelda’s School (BIS) was cancelled, AP® Chinese and Honors Chinese III students continued their collaboration with BIS students through virtual exchanges on Google Meet. The students worked on a cultural presentation project by creating a virtual tour in Taipei through Google Tour Creator, a program that allows individuals to create their own virtual reality tour using imagery from Google’s Street View or their own 360-degree photos. The ever-changing COVID-19 pandemic impact presented a tremendous challenge for schools to resume instruction this year. Saint Joseph Academy aimed to balance our mission, values and rigorous academic programming with the health and safety recommendations of the scientific community and as outlined by the Ohio Departments of Health and Education in making return to campus decisions. Families had the option to choose inperson instruction or full remote learning. As we continue this school year, we ask for prayers of safety and strength as we navigate through uncharted waters.
e want to express our sincere appreciation and gratitude to English teacher Mrs. Michelle Kelly-Flanagan, Alumnae and Special Event Coordinator Mrs. Betty Hjort, Administrative Assistant Mrs. Eileen Anthony and former President Mrs. Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis ’71 for living out the mission and charism of Saint Joseph Academy for so many years. At the end of this past academic year, these faculty and staff members embarked on a new chapter as retirees. Together, these incredible women served 74 years at the Academy! While we were not able to gather to celebrate them with the Class of 2020 at the annual Honors Convocation, faculty and staff honored these individuals in a social distanced luncheon. Mrs. Kelly-Flanagan taught at the Academy for 28 years, teaching English, mainly AP® English Literature, English 12 and 11. Mrs. Hjort held her position for 20 years. Mrs. Anthony worked as an
Michelle Kelly-Flanagan
Betty Hjort
administrative assistant in the Guidance Department for 12 years. Last, but not least, Mrs. Corrigan-Davis served as the first President of Saint Joseph Academy, a position she held for the past fourteen years, during which time the Academy grew in every way from groundbreaking academic program offerings, charism,
Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis
Eileen Anthony
global perspectives to college counseling preparation, enrollment, extracurriculars and financial growth. We are thankful for the gifts these women have given to help shape and empower generations of our students into women of unifying love. We will miss them all and wish them a happy and healthy retirement!
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Athletes Use Creative Ways to Engage During COVID-19
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n the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Athletics Department began thinking outside-the-box to engage its athletes and help them continue to train. Following the March shutdown of high school athletics and the cancellation of spring sports, coaches and athletes created videos that shared staying in shape tips. Athletics Director Mr. John Manuszak and Social Studies teacher Mr. Nick Roaldi created the Jaguar Beat Podcast. Their podcast featured a variety of guests, including former President Mrs. Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis ’71, Shannon Walsh ’20 and Assistant Athletic Director Ms. Maggie Berry ’10, Math Department Chair Mrs. Jill Garlock ’92, Mrs. Cathy Lanning Knittel ’67, the Class of 2020 Leadership Team and School
Counselor Mrs. Adriane Hicks. Episodes discussed online learning, leadership, life away from the Academy, the differences in women’s athletics from past to present while also addressing what students, faculty and staff could do to stay connected and help those in need. In April, the Jaguar Beat podcast featured another very special guest, Mrs. Karen Swanson Haan, the new Head Basketball Coach for the Jaguars. She comes to the Academy after spending the past two seasons as the head coach at Westlake High School. In 2019-20, she led the Demons to an OHSAA Division I District Championship and an overall record of 22-4 which included a Southwest Conference (SWC) title. She was named Coach of the Year in the SWC and by the Lorain Morning Journal. Prior to becoming the Head Coach at Westlake, she was the Junior Varsity head coach and assistant varsity coach at Gilmour Academy during the 2017-18 season. Mrs. Swanson Haan had a remarkable playing career in high school and in college. Following high school, she was a walk-on for the women’s basketball team at The University of Notre Dame. She enjoyed a four-year career for the Fighting Irish which included being part of the NCAA Division I
National Championship team in 2001. As the guidelines for athletics changed, the Athletics Department planned for the return of student-athletes in a controlled and safe environment. Student-athletes in golf, tennis, soccer, volleyball, cross country, basketball, crew, lacrosse and softball were able to work out with their teammates beginning in June while adhering to COVID-19 guidelines. Coaches from each of these sports followed protocols set forth by the Athletics Department, Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) and Varsity Basketball Coach the local boards of Mrs. Karen Swanson-Haan health. Incoming Freshmen and transfer students were able to join the returning Jaguars, meet their coaches and begin to adjust to life as a Saint Joseph Academy student-athlete. During the 20192020 school year, 55% percent of students participated in athletics and the Athletics Department hopes that number continues to rise despite the challenges that remain for high school athletics during COVID-19.
Record-Breaking 14 Student-Athletes Sign Letters of Intent Saint Joseph Academy celebrated 14 outstanding student-athletes who virtually signed their National Letters of Intent on Wednesday, May 6 during the annual college signing ceremony. The 14 Jaguars recognized were: Annie Allen, The Ohio State University, cross country and track & field Bri Boyer, Tiffin University, track & field Catherine Egan, Duquesne University, rowing Jenn Follmer, John Carroll University, volleyball Lauren Gardner, Ohio Northern University, volleyball Megan Harrison, Tufts University, volleyball Maura Jordan, Canisius College, track & field Maddy Kelly, Saint Louis University, swimming Amanda Keim, John Carroll University, cross country and track & field Izzy Micheli, Emory University, volleyball Kerrigan Ponsart, Baldwin Wallace University, tennis Meagan Schneller, The Ohio State University, crew Sia Schraff, Lindenwood University, rugby Seniors virtually commit to their college/university through the annual Athletic Signing Ceremony Hannah Zerman, University of Rochester, crew Congratulations to these Jaguars and best of luck to them as they begin their collegiate careers! 6
Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE
SERVING THE DEAR NEIGHBOR
Students Serve the Dear Neighbor During COVID-19
Abby Collins '21, back row, far right, works with her younger siblings to readapt toys for RePlay for Kids
“Service to the dear neighbor” became vitally important during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although students were not required to continue to perform their service hours due to the various restrictions put in place by the State of Ohio, our young women used their time, talent and effort to volunteer for causes that help others. Below are just a few examples of how students used their gifts to support their communities. With the pandemic growing and all K-12 Ohio schools closing in March, another issue grew - childcare. Doctors and nurses were deemed essential workers and were in higher demand than ever and in many cases working longer and more hours. This demand caused a childcare issue. Elizabeth Starck ’21 was so moved by this issue that she reached out to fellow Jaguars about babysitting for doctors, nurses and other essential health care professionals with young children. 75 of the Academy’s students signed up! “Since we were out of school, we needed to serve as much as possible so that we could ensure that our nurses and doctors were able to do their jobs without worrying about their children. There is always a risk, but we made sure that all the houses we went into are healthy,” shared Elizabeth who is still babysitting for families. During her time at the Academy, Abby Collins ’21 has been heavily involved with RePlay for Kids, a nonprofit organization that repairs and adapts toys and assistive devices for children with disabilities. “I’ve been able to see firsthand how meaningful the work that we do through toy adaptations is to the families that receive the toys. In the past, I worked on toys in engineering classes or clubs.
After school transitioned to a virtual learning format in March, I decided to look on the RePlay for Kids website to see if they would still accept adapted toys during the pandemic. Readapting toys is always interesting because there could be unforeseen issues when you open up the toy: leaking batteries, dissolved springs or unexpected wiring. Working through circuit boards can be trial and error but that is part of the process. I also had the opportunity to document the whole process and create instructions to be uploaded onto the RePlay for Kids database. It was really exciting to be able to apply what I had learned in the classroom to successfully finish 21 toys over the summer. It was a great opportunity to share a project I was passionate about with my four younger siblings who loved helping out, learning new skills and testing toys,” voiced Abby. The market for adapted toys is very small so they can be hard to come by and are expensive. “Seeing both the parents’ and children’s faces light up when they are able to use a toy specialized for them is so fulfilling. This program is so important to me because it does make a difference in many people’s lives. It’s also great to be able to combine something that I enjoy doing and helping others.” Vanessa Martin ’23 was also motivated to continue to “serve the dear neighbor” by serving thousands of meals in the spring alongside her neighbors. She was featured in Fox 8 News’ “Neighbors Helping Neighbors” segment. “This project is really important to me, because I know how much people have sacrificed lately. I’m just happy to know that I’m doing all I can during this difficult time. As I served meals, I can see that some people are really struggling and these meals really help them. A few of my responsibilities included preparing, packaging and distributing the food, and holding signs to encourage everyone to stop by and pick up food. This service opportunity takes place weekly on Friday and Saturday from 5-7 p.m., but besides those two hours of serving, it can take from up to seven hours to prepare the complete meal.” Alyssa Olivera-Cerpa ’21 served the dear neighbor by sewing masks for healthcare workers on the COVID-19 frontlines. “I thought it was important to make masks for healthcare workers because they are sacrificing so much to help victims of this pandemic. I realized that while I cannot do something to help at the same level they are, there were ways that I could do my part while at home. I saw an announcement from University Alyssa Olivera-Cerpa ’21 with a mask she has sewn Hospitals asking for volunteers to make masks to help them reach their goal of 100,000 masks for their healthcare workers. I immediately gathered materials, and I have made and donated more than 20 masks for University Hospitals,” stated Alyssa. This pandemic has led to countless acts of charity and selflessness. We are inspired and encouraged by our young women who continue to live lives of unifying love and make sacrifices to help their neighbors and protect the most vulnerable. Saint Joseph Academy FALL 2020
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Congratulations, Class of 2020!
S Valedictorian Sarah Gallo ’20
Salutatorian and Phi Beta Kappa Gabrielle Kim ’20
Speaker Sarah Scarpitti ’20
Commencement Speaker, Distinguished Alumna and Former President Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis ’71
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aint Joseph Academy, with its myriad of end of year traditions, remained committed to preserving the sacred traditions that define the Saint Joseph Academy experience for our students and their families while celebrating them in ways that put the health and safety of our community first. Following the guidelines provided by the Ohio Departments of Health and Education, the Class of 2020 participated in most of their beloved end of year traditions in person, including Senior Prom, “Walk of the Roses” and Commencement. The administration worked very hard with seniors and their parents/ guardians to find solutions that enabled these treasured special events to be celebrated. The Senior class, along with their families, voted to determine how to best commemorate these iconic events and decided they still wanted to attend both events in person, opting to hold both the Prom and Walk of the Roses at a later date. The Commencement Ceremony took place over three days to adhere to the guidelines laid out by the Governor and the State of Ohio Departments of Education and Health. “We wanted to make it very special for these young women who have been through so much this spring,” said former President, Distinguished Alumna and 2020 Commencement Speaker Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis ’71. “They’re so resilient, and we’re so proud of them.” To adhere to social distancing rules, each graduate and her immediate family members were allowed inside of Our Lady of Angels Church to see their daughter, granddaughter or sister graduate. Photos of each graduate were taken inside the church and with her family outside the church. The ceremony was videotaped and its big debut was on May 26, the day that commencement was originally scheduled to take place, in front of graduates and their families at the Aut-O-Rama Drive-In Theater in North Ridgeville. Valedictorian Sarah Gallo ’20 is attending Miami University to major in Political Science with a Criminology minor on the pre-law track in hopes
Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE
to become a federal prosecuting attorney. During her years at Saint Joseph Academy, Sarah was a coxswain on crew for all four years, served as a writing center consultant and peer tutor, Eucharistic Minister, was a member of National Honor Society and participated on the Dominican Service Trip. Gabrielle Kim ’20, the Salutatorian and Phi Beta Kappa, attends The Ohio State University, where she will pursue a major in Mathematics and Economics. Gabrielle was selected as a National Merit Finalist, served as the Editor-in-Chief of the Saint Joseph Academy Yearbook, President of Science Olympiad, Academy Ambassadors Executive Board and Treasurer of the Math Club. She also volunteered at St. John Medical Center and was a Parish School of Religion Teaching Assistant. The Student Commencement Speaker, Sarah Scarpitti ’20, is attending Indiana University to major in business with a minor in journalism. Sarah was a member of the soccer, basketball and track & field teams, National Honor Society, Academy Ambassadors Executive Board, Model United Nations and served as a retreat leader and co-president of Students Demand Action. From her speech, she states: “Even in the midst of such an unprecedented time in our world, we, Saint Joseph Academy’s Class of 2020, have been the lucky ones all along - because we fell in love with a school to the point where we couldn’t bear being anywhere else but right here on Rocky River Drive. That, in itself, goes to show how incredibly lucky we have been for the past four years, calling a place as special as Saint Joseph Academy, our happiness and our home. Not only has the Academy helped us to shape our own individual identities, encouraging us to pursue our biggest and brightest dreams, but it has also harmonized us through unifying love. We are a family; we are sisters. Because of that, we all have very similar foundations - foundations that will propel us to making those big and bright dreams of ours a tangible and definite reality someday.”
On a beautiful and warm Tuesday evening in July, the Class of 2020 was led down the front steps of the Academy by former President Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis ’71, wearing all-white caps and gowns, proudly carrying their bouquets of red roses. They were greeted by a socially-distanced group of faculty, staff and their most loyal fans, the Sisters of the Congregation of St. Joseph. In two lines and six feet apart, our youngest alumnae donned their new white
Sursum Corda face coverings and turned the corner onto Rocky River Drive, where they were cheered on by their family and friends. Upon arriving at Our Lady of Angels Church, the young women were led in prayer by Vice President of Mission Dr. Jessica Wrobleski, sang the alma mater and tossed their caps for one final celebratory moment. We are so very proud of the Class of 2020 and grateful for their resilience in these tumultuous times!
College & University Acceptances National College Acceptance Day was celebrated on Friday, May 1, and while this year’s celebration looked different, Seniors were celebrated virtually, taking a picture wearing a shirt with their college choice. The Class of 2020 was accepted into 134 universities. We are very proud of our Seniors as they continue their education. Albright College Allegheny College American University Aquinas College Ashland University Baldwin Wallace University Baylor University Belmont University Bowling Green State University Bryant University Butler University Canisius College Capital University Case Western Reserve University Chatham University Cheyney University of Pennsylvania Clemson University Cleveland State University Coastal Carolina University Columbus College of Art & Design Concordia University Cuyahoga Community College Denison University DePaul University Dickinson College Drexel University Duquesne University Eastern Michigan University Eckerd College Elon University Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Florida Institute of Technology Emory University Florida State University Fordham University Franciscan University of Steubenville Gannon University Georgia Institute of Technology
Athie Dek ’20 confirms her choice to attend the University of Pittsburgh
Gettysburg College Heidelberg University High Point University Hiram College Hobart and William Smith Colleges Hope College Indiana Institute of Technology Indiana University Indiana University-Purdue University Ithaca College Jacksonville University Jefferson (Philadelphia University and Thomas Jefferson University) John Carroll University Kent State University Lehigh University Lindenwood University Long Island University Lorain County Community College Loyola Marymount University Loyola University Chicago Marquette University Marymount University Mercyhurst University Miami University Michigan State University Mount Vernon Nazarene University Niagara University North Carolina State University Northwestern University Notre Dame College Nova Southeastern University Oberlin College Ohio Northern University Ohio University Ohio Wesleyan University Otterbein University Pennsylvania State University Pratt Institute
Purdue University Queens University of Charlotte Regis University Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Rochester Institute of Technology Roger Williams University Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology Saint Francis University Saint Louis University Saint Mary’s College Salve Regina University Samford University San Diego State University Savannah College of Art and Design School of the Art Institute of Chicago Seton Hill University Slippery Rock University St. Bonaventure University St. John’s University St. Olaf College State College of Florida State University of New York at Fredonia Syracuse University The College of Wooster The Ohio State University The University of Akron The University of Findlay
Tiffin University Tufts University University College Dublin University of Cincinnati University of Colorado University of Colorado Boulder University of Connecticut University of Dayton University of Detroit Mercy University of Illinois University of Kentucky University of Louisville University of Maryland University of Miami University of Minnesota University of Mount Union University of Pittsburgh University of Redlands University of Rochester University of South Carolina University of Southern California University of Toledo University of Vermont Ursuline College Vanderbilt University Virginia Tech University Walsh University Washington College Wayne State University West Virginia University Xavier University
Class of 2020 Highlights 96 percent plan to attend a college or university 46 percent graduated with high honors 27 percent graduated with honors 73 percent earned a total of more than $28 million in merit-based awards 73 Ohio Honors Diploma recipients 1 National Merit Finalist 1 National Merit Commended Scholar 1 National Hispanic Recognition Scholar 46% of Seniors graduated with a GPA of 3.8 or above 23 Health Sciences Honors Program graduates 15 Engineering & Design Honors Program graduates Saint Joseph Academy FALL 2020
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“25Under 35” Sixth Annual
Award Recognizes Outstanding Young Alumnae We are pleased to announce the sixth annual “25 Under 35” award recipients. This event recognizes 25 young alumnae under the age of 35 who have made an impact while going above and beyond in their personal and professional endeavors. These young professionals were selected for their accomplishments, compassionate leadership and volunteer efforts in our global society. These distinguished young women already are making an indelible mark in the world as educators, nurses, lawyers, politicians, engineers, advocates for those in need and a variety of other professions. They are living examples of the Character of a Saint Joseph Academy Graduate: women living lives of Unifying Love through Empathetic Justice, Service to the Dear Neighbor without
Distinction, Personal Integrity and Emerging Wisdom. Alumnae Director Allison Busser ’04 shares: “We are so thrilled to recognize these incredible young alumnae as ‘25 Under 35’ honorees. All of the honorees are outstanding women who are truly living out the mission of Saint Joseph Academy and the charism of the Sisters of the Congregation of St. Joseph. While we are not able to gather due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are hopeful a celebration of their accomplishments will be possible as an event at a later date. We are so blessed to have such a vibrant and successful young alumnae community, and we are so proud of these 25 women.” Congratulations to the 2020 “25 Under 35” Award Honorees!
Mary Grace Adler ’08
Katie Bartholomew ’04
Intervention Specialist, Parma Senior High School
Reactor Operator, Exelon – Braidwood Nuclear Power Plant
Bachelor of Science in Education (Mild/ Moderate Special Education), Miami University
Bachelor of Science in Biology, Xavier University
Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction, Arizona State University
Sister of Christine Bartholomew Petersen ’08
Daughter of Maureen Fallon Adler ’79 Sister of Erin Adler ’06 and Eileen Adler ’10 Resident of Cleveland, OH
Mary Grace remembers the genuine joy she experienced from shadowing at the West Side Catholic Center (WSCC) during her junior year at Saint Joseph Academy. She credits this experience with influencing her desire to choose a career that helps others. Mary Grace majored in special education and has worked as an Intervention Specialist at Parma Senior High School since 2012. Serving the dear neighbor was an integral part of her upbringing. Encouraged by her mother to live faith through action, Mary Grace puts in extra time after school tutoring and offering compassionate guidance to students as they face challenges inside and outside the classroom. She continues to devote time to the WSCC, spearheading fundraisers, scheduling volunteers and more. The organization’s mission resonates deeply with Mary Grace, as she tries to live her own life grounded in faith, hope, love and respect for those we serve. Her involvement in high school as a class officer, soccer player and Eucharistic Minister helped prepare her well for leadership roles. Mary Grace lauds Saint Joseph Academy as a place where young women can take chances to learn what they are capable of doing and becoming.
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Daughter of Faye Oleksiak Bartholomew N’79 Resident of Joliet, IL
Katie’s strong work ethic, self-motivation and courage to try new things were honed at Saint Joseph Academy. She gratefully acknowledges the significant impact of teachers including Mrs. Cathy Lanning Knittel ’67, Mr. John Lesko and Mr. Fred Kieser who helped shape her to become a confident, self-sufficient woman and nurtured her interest in science. Katie received a full scholarship to Xavier University as a Service Fellow where she volunteered for organizations like Cincinnati Children’s Hospital and Caracole House, a community outreach program for those with HIV/AIDS. Katie’s passion for science took her from a role as a research assistant at the University of Cincinnati to that of an equipment operator at a nuclear power plant in Illinois. In September 2016, she became the first female reactor operator at the facility. Katie continues to serve the dear neighbor through her involvement with Potterhead Running Club, a virtual running community that raises money for nonprofit and charitable organizations. She is proud to be a product of an institution like Saint Joseph Academy that invests in the intellectual, mental and spiritual growth of its students.
Taylor Whisler Bellan ’10 Occupational Therapist, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Bachelor of Arts in Exercise Science and Public Health, John Carroll University Master of Science in Occupational Therapy, D’Youville College Sister of Brett Whisler Briers ’07 Resident of Pittsburgh, PA
Determination, empathy and service to the dear neighbor are qualities that took root during Taylor’s time at Saint Joseph Academy. She was a member of Student Council and Catholic Schools for Peace & Justice, and credits Mrs. Maureen Fallon Adler ’79 for inspiring her to get involved with her community. Taylor attended John Carroll University where she participated in immersion trips, and held multiple health and therapy-focused advocacy roles. After obtaining her degree, she sought hands-on experience to determine if occupational therapy was a good fit. Taylor found her answer in a local family with two undiagnosed special needs children who thrived under her care. She went on to earn her master’s degree and currently works at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center helping stroke patients re-learn basic skills. Taylor continues to improve the lives of others through service, most recently traveling to Jamaica to work in the clinic at the Holy Spirit Foundation. She also is involved with the Miracle League, which creates wheelchairaccessible baseball fields and playgrounds for individuals with disabilities. Taylor remembers how her alma mater fostered a mindset of how to make a difference in the world and is happy to be doing that in her professional and personal life.
Maggie Berry ’10 Assistant Athletic Director, Saint Joseph Academy Bachelor of Science in Education, Walsh University Granddaughter of Kathleen Kelly Rolf ’53 Daughter of Charlene Rolf Berry ’79 Sister of Katie Berry ’07
leadership every day. Maggie fully understands the mission of Saint Joseph Academy and how interscholastic athletics fit into the big picture of a high school experience. According to Athletic Director John Manuszak, “Maggie is inclusive in her thoughts and actions and does a great job of applying the life lessons she learned as a student-athlete—leadership, teamwork and sacrifice —to support all students. She puts forth her best effort every day to make sure she does everything she can to help the close-knit community that she values so much.”
Samantha Billittier ’13 Team Coordinator/Case Manager, Monarch Lifeworks Bachelor of Science in Business Management, Bowling Green State University Sister of Sarah Billittier ’11 Resident of Fairview Park, OH
Samantha’s work with adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder personifies the attribute of service without distinction. She has worked for three years at Monarch Lifeworks, a nonprofit organization which helps autistic adults lead more independent and enriched lives by providing opportunities for them to learn, engage socially and participate in meaningful work. Samantha was promoted after only a year and a half. In her role as a Team Coordinator and Case Manager, she regularly seeks partnerships that get her clients more involved in the community and empower them to use their talents. She also helps oversee the Lifeworks Boutique, a vocational program in which clients learn new skills and participate in activities that might not otherwise have been accessible to them—for example, developing handmade goods such as soaps, lotions and candles, which are then sold at local farmer’s markets and small, independent shops. Samantha remembers Saint Joseph Academy as a great place to receive an incredible education, find out more about yourself and make lifelong friends. In fact, she has discovered that her Saint Joseph Academy network is a valuable asset when it comes to identifying connections that could turn into professional opportunities for her clients, thus further enhancing their lives.
Resident of Cleveland, OH
Saint Joseph Academy has long been a part of Maggie’s life. As a third-generation alumna, she considers it an incredible honor to follow in the footsteps of the strongest women and role models she knows: her grandmother, mother and and sister. Maggie had a memorable high school career, playing basketball all four years, including one year with her sister. She benefitted from the exemplary guidance and friendship of her coaches and earned an athletic college scholarship. Today, Maggie serves as the Assistant Athletic Director at her beloved alma mater. She is an ardent supporter of women’s athletics and demonstrates compassionate
Selection Committee Members Julia Love Julia Mayer P’21 Diane Strojin ’83 Cheryl Hagan O’Malley ’77
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Elizabeth Campion ’08
Brianna Dombo ’13
May 4 Archivist, Kent State University
Designer, Ave Maria Press
Bachelor of Arts in English, Kent State University
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Communication Design, Minor in Chinese, University of Notre Dame
Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS), specializing in Special Collections and Archives and Museum Studies, Kent State University, 2015 Sister of Emily Campion ’10 Resident of Cleveland, OH
Elizabeth values the way history charts a course for the future. A yearlong Vietnam/Holocaust class at Saint Joseph Academy profoundly inspired her, piquing an interest in social justice and the respectful preservation of history. She works at Kent State University as an Archivist and Assistant Professor with a focus on the Kent State shootings of 1970. She is honored to be entrusted with stewardship of this historic period, knowing it can result in a better understanding of the turmoil, grief and healing the nation went through. Elizabeth demonstrates compassionate leadership in her volunteer efforts with the Alzheimer’s Association. She is a Team Leader for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s and has raised tens of thousands of dollars in honor of her grandmother. She remembers Saint Joseph Academy as a community that thrives on the growth of its students and encourages a sisterhood that lasts forever.
Melissa Campbell Caranfa ’09 Program Coordinator/Planner, Huron County Public Health Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences, Cleveland State University Master of Science in Health Sciences, Cleveland State University Resident of Bellevue, OH
Melissa is employed by Huron County Public Health as a Program Coordinator/ Planner, working on initiatives to promote healthy living, especially for residents who otherwise might not have the means to receive assistance, help or education. She began her career in public health as the organization’s Tobacco Cessation Coordinator to reduce tobacco use in the county. Melissa then became the lead manager of the HIV Prevention Program to assist people with accessing medications and paying for medical care. She recently took on the role of Emergency Response Coordinator and has been leading efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19. This July, Melissa was inducted as the vice president of the Bellevue Lions Club, an international nonprofit that works together to meet the community’s needs of wellbeing, including vision, hunger, diabetes, childhood cancer and the environment. As an advocate of wellness, she continues to participate in the annual Cleveland Heroes Run held at Saint Joseph Academy and the Rite Aid Cleveland Half Marathon or 10K run. Melissa credits her alma mater for instilling the values and teachings that continue to shape not just her career, but her lifestyle. 12
Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE
Daughter of Christine Wojcik-Dombo N’73 Resident of South Bend, IN
The academic rigor, spiritual development, caring educators and lifelong friendships that Brianna found at Saint Joseph Academy all helped lay the foundation for her professional and spiritual life. She found her calling as an artist/designer through Graphic Design teacher Mrs. Beth Pleban. Graphic design combined everything Brianna loved about math and science—precision, problem solving and realworld application—with everything she loved about art—personal expression, creativity and the ability to use visual beauty to improve lives. Her passion for design has always been deeply rooted in her faith and belief in Catholic education. She has found the perfect combination of work and faith in her job as a book designer for Ave Maria Press, a Catholic publishing company and as a freelance designer for Saint Joseph Academy. Brianna also tutors high school students in geometry and pre-calculus, assists at young adult events in her diocese and serves as a Eucharistic Minister.
Alexandra Ehrett ’12 Associate, GBSM, Inc. Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, John Carroll University Sister of Rylee Ehrett ’23 Resident of Denver, CO
Alex is an Associate at GBSM, Inc., a strategic communications and public affairs firm in Denver, Colorado. Prior to moving to Denver, Alex worked at McCaulley&Company, a Clevelandbased government affairs firm, for more than four years, securing more than $8 million in grants and state and federal funds for local communities, nonprofits, academic institutions, and small businesses. In 2019 alone, she secured $2 million in federal, state and local funds to support streetscaping and community development projects, construction of parks and trails throughout Ohio, the purchase of critical safety equipment for first responders and the replacement of diesel school buses with cleaner fuel alternatives. She understood the impact of her voice from a young age and is persistent in her mission to “save her corner of the world.” While living in Cleveland, Alex was active in helping others as a member of the West Side Catholic Center Associate Board, the West End Lakewood Task Force and the Community Engagement Committee of the Beck Center. Saint Joseph Academy inspired her to take risks to help others when the opportunity arose. She cites her high school years as the most transformative of her life, forever changing her future for the better.
Emily Frost ’10 Performance Agency Account Manager, Google Bachelor of Arts in Political Theory and Communication Studies, Vanderbilt University, 2014 Sister of Laura Frost ’16 Resident of New York, NY
The value of service to the dear neighbor has remained with Emily since graduating from Saint Joseph Academy. While attending Vanderbilt University, she was involved with The Afterschool Program, an outreach program for at-risk youth. When she relocated to New York City for her job with Google, she discovered the Lower East Side Girls Club, which offers free programs to low-income girls and young women in the community. She has been a member of the LESGC board for three years and co-chaired the organization’s annual summer fundraiser for the last two years. Notably, the entire format for the 2020 event was reimagined due to the pandemic and in order to support anti-racism efforts across the U.S. In her role with Google, Emily partners with global advertising agencies to drive better results for their clients. She is a passionate advocate for women and diversity in tech, working with her agency partners to launch programs like #IAmRemarkable—a Google initiative empowering women and underrepresented groups to celebrate their achievements in the workplace and beyond. Emily recognizes that an all-girls education gave her the confidence to speak her mind in all settings. She commends Saint Joseph Academy for the community it fosters to give students the time, space and trust to come into their own.
Megan Mayer Gaskin ’04 Coordinator of Youth Ministry and Justice and Peace Ministries, St. Andrew’s Roman Catholic Church Bachelor of Arts in History, Xavier University Daughter of Maureen Gorman Mayer ’71 Resident of Roanoke, VA
It comes as no surprise to Megan’s classmates that she has a career that embodies the Characteristics of a Saint Joseph Academy Graduate. She was her class president, cocaptain of the volleyball team, a member of both campus ministry and Catholic Schools for Peace & Justice. Megan considers herself blessed to have her dream job, sharing her Catholic faith with teenagers at her parish in Roanoke, Virginia. Megan thrives on finding new ways to inspire and energize them to grow closer to Christ. She has directed retreats, arranged annual trips to the March for Life in Washington D.C., instituted service projects, and more. Megan was recently invited to give a presentation at the Diocesan Youth Conference on Catholic Feminism and the Female
Genius. She also coordinates the Justice and Peace Ministries for her parish, oversees outreach programs to aid the socioeconomically disadvantaged and homeless in her community, and manages subsidies for in-need individuals in cooperation with social outreach and advocacy organizations supported by her parish. Outside of work, Megan volunteers for organizations serving vulnerable populations, the elderly and ill, women in crisis and animal shelters. She felt well prepared to serve her brothers and sisters in Christ after high school, thanks to the confidence, faith, love and camaraderie she found at Saint Joseph Academy.
Emily Gehring ’06 Compliance Associate, KeyBank Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Saint Louis University Juris Doctor, Cleveland-Marshall College of Law Granddaughter of Mary Ann Landino Gavin ’54 † Resident of Berea, OH
Emily serves the dear neighbor through extensive involvement in her community, her church, and women’s leadership causes. Volunteering is extremely important to her as she feels a responsibility to help others. Emily has a special affinity for mentoring and works with middle school and high school students through the Cleveland Metropolitan School District as well as first-year law students at Cleveland-Marshall. She believes if she can help one student figure out where to go to high school or identify a potential career path, she will have made a difference. She enjoys being a mentor to law students because she had great mentors guiding her during her law school years. Emily wants to provide the same help and guidance to young attorneys that she received. Emily also has been recognized by her employer, KeyBank, as an outstanding community volunteer. She has spoken at the Academy's Women’s Leadership Symposium. Emily celebrates her alma mater as a place that challenges you, encourages you and allows you to be your true self. What would you tell a prospective student/family who is considering attending SJA? “Going to Saint Joseph Academy is like finding a sisterhood you never knew or thought you needed. The Academy is a place that allows young women to find out who they truly are and what they truly love. It is a place where females are the leaders in every club, activity, sport, etc. Saint Joseph Academy celebrates creativity and new ideas while challenging you as a student and a human being, encouraging you to become your best self and allowing you to be your true self.” – Emily Gehring ’06
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Kayte Tuleta Gorski ’10 Senior Living Consultant Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Marquette University Resident of Frankfort, IL
Kayte has always had a heart for people, especially the elderly. During college, she continued her service to others, an attribute learned at the Academy, by volunteering in multiple senior living communities. After graduation, Kayte realized her true passion was in supporting senior residents and their families. During the height of her grandfather’s struggle with Alzheimer’s, she moved back to Cleveland to work for the Alzheimer’s Association Cleveland Area Chapter and later transferred to the Alzheimer’s Association National Office in Chicago. In this role, she helped organize events that raised hundreds of thousands of dollars. Her family has raised more than $35,000 over the years for the Alzheimer’s Association. After Kayte’s grandfather passed away from the disease, she listened to her calling and began helping people and families on a more personal and professional level. She is currently working as a consultant in the senior living industry, helping more than 100 families navigate the process and helping communities improve their sales processes and advocating for quality care. She has always been viewed by her coworkers and managers as a compassionate leader with a strong work ethic. Kayte always strived to do the right thing and to her that means helping people...one person; one family at a time.
Maura Heffernan ’09 Intervention Specialist and Teacher, Cleveland Metropolitan School District Bachelor of Science in Education (Intervention Specialist K-12), Xavier University Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction, Cleveland State University Daughter of Joan Jereb Heffernan ’78 Sister of Julie Heffernan McNulty ’06 and Deirdre Heffernan ’11 Resident of Westlake, OH
Maura is a professional and vocal advocate focused on teaching students with learning disabilities. She believes in giving back with the talents God has blessed her with in life. She loves each student and wants to help them achieve their personal best. In addition to coaching girls’ basketball and track, Maura volunteers with the “We Run the City” program, that teaches young people the benefits of goal setting. 100 students participate in weekly races and run as part of the Cleveland Marathon. She opens her students’ awareness of the city and the many causes and nonprofits that runners support while promoting their sense of healthy living within their student community. Maura is committed to programs that improve her
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students and the school community. She serves as the Cleveland Teachers Union chair, member of the academic achievement team, building leadership team, sunshine committee, and director of the program to collect clothing. For the past two years, Maura has served as the Academy’s Freshman Basketball Coach, where she pushes her athletes to do their best. From this and her own athletic experience, she knows that being on a team greatly shapes athletes as a person. She remains close with many Saint Joseph Academy friends who cherish the memories and look to support the Academy now.
Laura Kalynchuk ’12 Medical Intensive Care Unit Nurse, University Hospitals Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Xavier University Daughter of Joanne Pleban Kalynchuk N’75 Resident of Cleveland, OH
In the past few months, Laura has had to quickly transition from being a nurse in the Medical Intensive Care Unit (MICU) to the primary COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit at University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center. The Medical Intensive Care Unit is led by a team of pulmonologists, nurses, respiratory therapists, physical and occupational therapists, dietitians, pharmacists, environmental service workers, secretaries and nursing assistants as well as many other professionals. With the trust and rapport she has built as a healthcare professional, Laura rose to the occasion to care for patients and teammates while navigating the current challenges Cleveland is facing concerning the pandemic. Although it has been a scary and fearful time, Laura believes that she is doing what she was meant to do; work as an extension of God’s hands to provide comfort, healing and smiles to others especially during this difficult time. This past year, Laura also oversaw care for her grandmother when she was in the ICU at a different hospital. Laura would go regularly, when she herself was not at work, to make sure her grandmother was receiving proper care. The staff at the other hospital recognized Laura’s knowledge and skill and allowed her to provide specific services to her grandmother. Her family greatly appreciated the nurturing way Laura explained the procedures and care plan for her grandmother during such a difficult time. What would you tell a prospective student/family who is considering attending SJA? “Saint Joseph Academy gives girls the best overall high school experience. You are surrounded by the best people, teachers, coaches, friends and support staff. You are given an opportunity for so many experiences. An all-girls school allows girls to take on and see themselves in every role: learners, leaders, athletes, artists, friends, etc.” – Maura Heffernan ’09
Samantha Manzuk ’09 Program Director, Cardinal Court Alzheimer’s Special Care Center Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Promotional Communication with a Minor in Speech and Hearing, Cleveland State University Master of Arts in Speech Pathology and Audiology, Cleveland State University
after school programing and hires professional teaching artists including dance, choir, jazz band, drumline, guitar and drama. By starting this program, Maureen has given students the opportunity to express themselves and find their talents. Maureen is currently working on implementing an arts programming throughout CMSD so all children have the opportunity to enrich their lives through performing arts.
Sister of Stacy Manzuk ’12 and Sarah Manzuk ’16
Karen McGraw ’13
Resident of Cleveland, OH
Project Manager, Parker Hannifin Corporation
Samantha treats each of the residents at Cardinal Court with empathy, compassion and professionalism every single day. She demonstrates unifying love through her use of spiritual activities at work, even creating her own weekend devotionals. Many residents require her aid for even their most basic needs, which she performs with love and empathy. Since early on in her career, Samantha would often sit with management, and was recognized as employee of the month because of her desire to find ways to help the residents and families she was serving. She started as an activity assistant, hosting special activities based on her talents, including performing Irish dancing for the residents or starting a choir. Within a year, Samantha rose through the ranks of management. She obtained her Certified Dementia Practitioners License to become a teacher, coach and went on to become a certified Dementia Live® coach. She is constantly examining new ways of looking at things to provide purpose to residents’ life. Samantha works with staff to create a schedule for the caregivers to assist with activities and even works as a caregiver on short-staffed shifts. Samantha strives to lead by example to give her residents the best days of their lives, no matter their limitations.
Bachelor of Business Administration in Operations and Supply Chain Management, Cleveland State University
Maureen Martin ’10 Educational Aid and Arts Director, Cleveland Metropolitan School District Bachelor of Arts in Humanities, Walsh University Daughter of Doreen Kaminski Martin ’82 Resident of Parma, OH
When Maureen attended Saint Joseph Academy, she fell in love with the performing arts, teaching and serving others. She began her career at Cleveland Metropolitan School District (CMSD) as a paraprofessional for special needs students. While working in this setting, Maureen noticed that the school only offered athletic programs. After many conversations with administrators, Maureen was finally given the opportunity to create a drama and music program, writing several grants, attending meetings with district employees and recruiting students. As of today, Maureen, or “Miss Mo” as she is affectionately called by her students and coworkers, has started a fully functioning arts program at John Marshall High School. The program includes music classes as electives in the curriculum. She offers before and
Granddaughter of Eileen Reidy Haas ’41 † Daughter of Mary Haas McGraw ’75 Resident of Cleveland, OH
Karen has taken the values she learned at Saint Joseph Academy and applied them in the strides she has made in her own personal and professional life. These values reflect the lessons she gained from her time at the Academy. Karen chose to enter the STEAM field as a way to strengthen her own wisdom and lead with integrity. At work, Karen rose quickly from a trainee position to a Supply Chain Value Team Leader. She is dedicated to what she does and is driven to improve her work ethic as well as corporate functioning. Karen demonstrates her leadership through her work, not in lavish awards or outstanding praise but in the work she outputs. She has always cited strong, female leaders as her inspiration to pursue employment in a nontraditional female field. The values of leadership and empowering female voices Karen heard during her time at the Academy have resonated with her and continue to push her to this day.
Michelle Roman ’13 High School Social Studies Teacher, New York City Department of Education Bachelor of Arts in History with Minors in Education and English, The Ohio State University Master of Arts, Relay Graduate School of Education Sister of Sarah Roman ’10 Resident of New York, NY
Michelle has carried the attributes she learned at Saint Joseph Academy into her professional career, not only in what she studied but in how she has progressed beyond graduation. She was inspired by her teachers at the Academy to pursue a career in education while making an impact in urban communities. Michelle currently works in New York City with teenagers who live in the Bronx. After completing her two-year contract with Teach for America, she chose to continue her work as an educator. Her career choice in educating
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teenagers in a challenging environment stands out as an example of living with unifying love through empathetic justice. Michelle regularly asks her students to think beyond the classroom and explore social injustices they may experience on a daily basis. She provides mentorship to her students outside of the structured classroom setting, offering support and assistance with college applications as well as advice. For many of Michelle’s students, she is one of the few adults that genuinely care and takes time to listen to their interests, educational goals and dreams. She encourages them to keep pursuing these aspirations by motivating them to work harder. Michelle chooses to adapt the leadership skills learned at the Academy and apply them in a real-world setting to benefit her students.
Katie Speice Schiau ’12 Sales Account Executive, Cision PR Newswire Bachelor of Science in Strategic Communications, Ohio University Sister of Caroline Speice ’13 Resident of Lakewood, OH
Katie is dedicated to her company, coworkers, family, friends and to her Church community at St. Luke the Evangelist where she serves as a Eucharistic Minister and to the greater Cleveland community. In each of these capacities, Katie has maintained an emphasis on the development of women and service to the community. At work, Katie has received multiple promotions to serve as a Senior Account Executive by age 25. This year, Katie was awarded Cision’s President’s Club honor for ranking among the highest achieving sales personnel, continuing to set a positive example for those around her. This advancement cannot only be attributed to her hard work ethic in consistently exceeding her sales goals, but her positive attitude and the way that she influences those around her to achieve their full potential. Katie’s Saint Joseph Academy experience clearly impacted her career and personal life by keeping faith and friendship at the center of her life. Since graduation, she has maintained her friendships with her beloved classmates, speaking at the Academy’s Women’s Leadership Symposium and developed new sisterhood ties through her college sorority, Chi Omega, and professional involvement in Junior League of Cleveland and as an Industry Mentor at Ohio University. What would you tell a prospective student/family who is considering attending SJA? “A Saint Joseph Academy education is the best investment you can make. If you want to become a confident, compassionate and driven woman - this is where it all starts. The lessons and talents learned here will stick with you throughout your entire life, making it worth every penny.” – Katie Speice Schiau ’12
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Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE
Megan Seaman ’11 Environmental Engineer, Wood Environment & Infrastructure Solutions, Inc. Bachelor of Science in Environmental Engineering, Cornell University Resident of Davis, CA
Megan’s concern and care for others is evident in the way that she lives her life. Among many examples, one includes the extensive training and fundraising to complete a 100-mile bike ride to benefit AIDS research and the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Marathon. Megan’s efforts raised nearly $2,800 for these organizations. She has volunteered with the Bay Area Childcare Collective, which offers childcare support to women in low-income, immigrant or vulnerable groups to allow them time to be active in social justice and other causes in their communities. Megan broadens her worldview through travel and appreciates the opportunities to experience the culture and people in other countries. During college, she spent spring break in Haiti with fellow engineering students who studied the feasibility of bringing potable water to residents and traveled to Guatemala on a mission trip. Megan passed the Fundamentals of Engineering Exam while in college and received the Engineering in Training certification. In April 2018, she passed the Professional Engineer Exam and applied for the California licensure as a Civil Engineer. Megan’s work as an Environmental Engineer involves fieldwork where collaboration and coordination with contractors is critical to success. Megan welcomes diverse assignments; her projects range from water sampling on the Flint River in Michigan to soil sampling in remote Wyoming terrain on a wind turbine project. Her situational awareness, friendly demeanor and professionalism are key to her professional growth.
Ellen Skonce ’11 STREAM Coordinator, St. Raphael School Bachelor of Arts in English, The College of Wooster Resident of Lakewood, OH
In her role as St. Raphael School’s Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, Arts and Math (STREAM) Coordinator, Ellen applies all of the characteristics learned at Saint Joseph Academy in her interactions with K-8 students, teachers, staff and administration. Ellen has discovered and owned her unique gifts and skills by growing from a Technology Assistant and Library Aide to the Coordinator of STREAM – Innovation Center and Program. She has moved forward in this new position with confidence, courage, honesty and initiative – all qualities instilled in her by her family and Saint Joseph Academy. Ellen’s intellectual curiosity, discernment and openness to new ideas/different perspectives has allowed her to play a critical role in the establishment, building and integration of the STREAM program. She worked closely with the St. Raphael School technology committee to renovate their 30-year
old mezzanine area into a brand new Innovation Center that was custom-designed to fit the needs of its students. Her compassionate leadership is subtle, quiet and pervasive. She works with the teachers to plan lessons and guides the students through their STREAM lessons. In addition, Ellen guides older students as they explore the intricacies and nuances of broadcast journalism through the News Team. She regularly works at the aftercare program, Raiders Club and is a dedicated volunteer director on weekends for the Drama Club. Ellen has been directly involved and instrumental in creating positive change at St. Raphael School.
Bridget Smith ’08 Manager of Pre-Trial Monitoring Unit, Cuyahoga County Juvenile Court Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Cleveland State University Master of Science in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Criminal Behavior, Tiffin University Daughter of Mary Pat Calvey Smith ’77 Sister of Ann Marie Smith ’05 Resident of Lakewood, OH
Bridget’s strong connection to her community starts with her family and the influence of her experience at Saint Joseph Academy. Her chosen career as a civil servant shows her strong ties to Cleveland’s community and her desire to reach adolescents in need of intervention. Because of her commitment to her community, she worked full-time while receiving her Master’s in Criminal Justice. On a daily basis, Bridget shows compassionate leadership and empathetic justice to her clients who may have lost their way or were raised in difficult circumstances. She encourages her clients to move forward by finding the resources to change their life’s trajectory. Bridget is very passionate and gives each of her clients the individual attention that they need to better their own lives. Being able to guide youth to the right resources and assist with their struggles is something she takes great pride in doing. Through her experiences, Bridget has acquired the knowledge and understanding of the role that community resources provide to our youth. With her recent promotion into a management position, she looks forward to guiding her team to success.
Bride Sweeney ’10 State Representative, Ohio House of Representatives Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with Minors in Business and Leadership, John Carroll University
The work Bride does is a direct reflection of the values rooted in her alma mater. She currently serves as the youngest Democrat lawmaker of the Ohio House of Representatives and is the first woman to be elected to represent the 14th House district. Her role as a State Representative allows her to connect with individuals in her community who need assistance from state departments, funding from state grants or wish to create a change in state policy. She is involved with her constituency and has been an excellent advocate for the specific needs of her district. Bride’s dedication to her role was quickly noticed by the Speaker of the House as he selected one of her bills as “priority legislation” for the Ohio House of Representatives. This legislation was a bipartisan bill. They were able to compromise and the bill passed unanimously on the House floor. In Bride’s first term, she passed two bills out of the Ohio House of Representatives. Bride goes above and beyond what is expected for a State Representative and her legislative efforts are focused on helping the environment, education systems and simplifying bureaucratic processes and regulations. These efforts have a direct impact on those she serves in her community.
Julie Booker Verlei ’04 Dean of Students and Faculty, EAGLE College Prep Maryvale Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education, Ashland University Master of Education in Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment, Marygrove College Daughter of Susan Mullin Booker ’79 Resident of Goodyear, AZ
Julie is keenly aware that one of the greatest gifts given to her was the education she received at Saint Joseph Academy. She greets each challenge with a desire to enrich each individual with integrity, a positive outlook and a smile. Julie continuously plans community outreach events and plan fundraisers for EAGLE College Prep to support students and their families. She has been successful in bringing major league ballplayers to speak to students, sharing their insights of the importance of education, individuality and family. In her 12 years as an educator, Julie continues to serve in low income communities. Her current school serves a high English Learner and Free and Reduced Lunch population. She co-leads the professional development and coaching of teachers in high yield instructional practices. Julie has embraced diversity in everyday encounters with great finesse which was instilled through her education and interactions at the Academy.
Granddaughter of Bride Ann Gallagher Sweeney ’50† Daughter of Katherine Dempsey Sweeney ’81† Sister of Molly Sweeney ’09, Samantha Sweeney ’14 and Margaret Sweeney ’22 Resident of Cleveland, OH
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ADVANCEMENT
Make Saint Joseph Academy Accessible – for Decades to Come By including a gift to the Academy in your will, you can help us keep a Saint Joseph Academy education affordable for as many families as possible for years to come. In partnership with FreeWill, Saint Joseph Academy’s online willwriting tool allows you to plan your generous gift easily online, entirely for free. If you do not have a legal, up-to-date will, this resource offers a unique opportunity to plan for your loved ones. Join the visionary donors of Saint Joseph Academy’s Fontbonne Legacy Society by pledging your support of the many amazing young women who will pass through our doors — today, tomorrow and decades into the future. If you have already made a gift to Saint Joseph Academy, please let us know. We would like to thank you, and welcome you into our legacy society. By letting us know, we can ensure that we fulfill your gift wishes exactly as you intended. To inform us of your intentions, contact Director of Major and Planned Giving Erin Grace at 216.619.1938 or email egrace@sja1890.org. Visit F reeWill.com/sja1890 a nd make your legacy count!
To complete your will, there are just three easy steps to follow: Fill out the form online Visit FreeWill.com/sja1890. It only takes 20 minutes to fill out the information needed to create your last will and testament. Print out the form The information you provide is combined with precise language of FreeWill’s legal forms and provided to you as a printable, legal will. Sign and keep safe To make your will official, sign and initial the document in person with your witnesses. Keep your new will somewhere safe, but accessible.
You Could Win $20,000 Supporting the Jaguar Jackpot! Want to win $20,000? On Friday, September 18, Saint Joseph Academy kicked off the Jaguar Jackpot raffle to support tuition assistance for each and every student. Tickets may be purchased online from a current student. Visit www.sja1890.org/jaguarjackpot for more information and to purchase your tickets online (Ohio residents only) through Sunday, October 18, 11:59 p.m. EST. You could be this year’s winner! Go Jaguars!
Sarah Rosenberg Ackerman ’02 & Cole Ackerman a daughter, Lucy Marie, born January 26, 2020 Katie Janca-Feliz ’03 & Luis Feliz a daughter, Sophia Ann, born April 11, 2020
CubClub 18
Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE
Hannah McGlynn Netemeyer ’07 & Adam Netemeyer A daughter Clara Maria, born December 9, 2019 Caitlin Kahler Ubbing ’08 & John Ubbing a daughter, Louise Lavelle, born June 7, 2020
THANK YOU
Supporting Our Students! Beginning July 1, 2019, our generous community supported us through the fall and continued to make gifts to the young women of Saint Joseph Academy during these uncertain times. We are deeply grateful to everyone who made a gift to our Annual Fund, which raised $467,290! The need to support the Saint Joseph
Academy Scholarship Fund was greater than ever. While we were not able to gather to celebrate the Spring Scholarship Luncheon in person, students, their families, our alumnae and friends so generously responded, donating more than $14,500 to the Scholarship Fund. Special thanks to the Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis ’71 Tribute Sponsors Ann Darrah Ritty ’58, Judy
Ghazoul Hilow ’81, Barbara McEntee Durkin ’53 and to generous sponsors Kathryn Kosnosky Vine ’60, Tammi Olle P’12 & ’23, Karen Joyce ’58, Wanda Laszcz Gulley N’69 and Anthony Anselmo P’22. Thank you to everyone who contributed to these important endeavors! Your gifts make a Saint Joseph Academy education possible.
Jaguar Emergency Relief Fund When COVID-19 struck, many Saint Joseph Academy families found themselves in a unique position of needing vital tuition assistance for their daughter(s). In response to this situation, the Academy quickly introduced the Jaguar Emergency Relief Fund to support its families who were in a COVID-19 related financial strain. We are grateful to share that to date, this fund has raised more than $21,650. At a time in which we are all facing an uncertain future, we humbly ask for your consideration in providing this critical assistance to families with special circumstances. Plese visit www.sja1890.org/giving. Thank you for your compassionate support.
Jubiliarians
Congratulations to these six Jubilarians for their incredible service to the Congregation of St. Joseph! Together, these Sisters have more than 420 years of combined service. We are proud to honor their work at the Congregation and at the Academies. 75 YEARS
Sister Madeline Lammermeier ’44, CSJ
70 YEARS
Sister Eileen Wentzel, CSJ*
Sister Antoinette Campanella ’44, CSJ (Sister Concetta)
60 YEARS
Sister Agnes Schreiber ’49, CSJ (Sister Mary Martin)
Sister Marietta Starrie ’49, CSJ*
Sister Karen Lyons ’59, CSJ (Sister Mary Rita)*
*Denotes taught at Saint Joseph Academy or Nazareth Academy
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
Nicole Mohar Development Director 216.251.6788 x232 nmohar@sja1890.org
Erin Grace Director of Major and Planned Giving 216.619.1938 egrace@sja1890.org
Allison Busser ’04 Alumnae Director 216.619.1653 abusser@sja1890.org
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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 Frantz Schnupp ’44 on the death of her son, James Schnupp.
Elaine Farrell Pershern ’60 on the death of her brother, Thomas Farrell.
Marilyn Wissing Humenik ’47 on the death of her sister and Janette Volle Locke ’74 and Nancy Volle Gilbert ’77 on the death of their mother, Patricia Wissing Volle ’51.
Jeanette Dormody LaVriha ’62 on the death of her brother, Donald Dormody.
Eileen Reynolds Wallenhorst ’70 on the death of her husband and Mary Wallenhorst ’08 and Ellen Wallenhorst ’10 on the death of their father, James Wallenhorst.
Mary Delgauido Bloser ’64 on the death of her husband, Chris Bloser.
Wendy Lawrence Bentley ’71 on the death of her father, John Lawrence.
Kathleen Krach Koster ’50 and Bertha Ann Krach Strum ’58 on the death of their sister, Alice Ethel Krach Weisbarth ’48.
Carol Lisk Jalen N’64 on the death of her son, Paul Jalen.
Diane Plona Buccier N’71 and Cathy Plona Betz N’74 on the death of their mother, Jene Plona.
Kay Lockwood Allen ’51 on the death of her husband and Margaret Allen Gerard ’51 on the death of her brother, Joseph Allen.
Michele Beres Nolan N’65 on the death of her husband, William Nolan. Carol Orban Shakarian ’65 and Alexis Orban Ballrick ’67 on the death of their brother, Alex Orban.
Rosemary Rogers Steiger ’53 on the death of her sister, Donna Rogers Boleman ’55.
Kathleen Lauer Grebb ’66 on the death of her sister, Marilyn Lauer Haas ’61.
Pat Donnelly ’55 on the death of her brother, Joseph R. Donnelly.
Ruth Woyansky Williams ’66 on the death of her brother, George Woyansky Sr.
Carol King Johnson ’55 on the death of her husband, David Paul Johnson. Margaret Corrigan Radle ’55 on the death of her husband, Robert Louis Radle. Rosemary Rieke Saxer ’56 on the death of her husband, Robert Saxer. Rose Marie Dietz Vincent ’56 and Donna Dietz Hoffman ’65 on the death of their sister, Marilyn Dietz Drellishak. Kay Phillips Dorazio ’57 on the death of her husband, Frank Louis Dorazio. Alberta Kunkel ’58 on the death of her brother, James Kunkel. Virginia Delgaudio Reynolds ’58 on the death of her daughter and Karen Reynolds Reddy ’81 and Cheryl Reynolds Linnean ’84 on the death of their sister, Patricia Reynolds Keeton ’83. Eileen Somerville Snider ’58 and Peggy Somerville Walsh N’67 on the death of their brother, Andrew Somerville. Joanne Naegele ’59 on the death of her brother, Joseph Naegele. Susan Imburgia, CSJ ’60, and Nanci Imburgia ’67 on the death of their brother and Gloria Grilly Imburgia N’67 on the death of her husband, James Imburgia.
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Rita Kleinhenz Evanich N’67 and Pamela Kleinhenz Benkert N ’73 on the death of their mother, Frances Kleinhenz.
Laura Stacko N’71 on the death of her father, Rudolph Stacko. Marie Becks Brickley N’72 on the death of her mother, Kathryn Becks. Mary Ann Shupe Brooks ’72, Pamela Shupe Hennings ’75 and Laura Shupe Schriener ’78 on the death of their mother, Adelle Shupe. Christine Baranowski Courtright ’72, Lynn Baranowski Moquin ’73 and Denise Baranowski Bement ’79 on the death of their mother, Carol Baranowski.
Margaret Reitz Gesing ’67 on the death of her sister, Doris Reitz Toth ’48.
Noreen Dubecky ’72, Colleen Dubecky Dawson ’76 and Therese Dubecky on the death of their mother, Elaine Dubecky.
Mary Ann Brill Grabiec ’67 and Sharon Brill Bays ’69 on the death of their father, Raymond Brill, Sr.
Barbara Schaefer Greenwood ’72 on the death of her daughter, Alice Jeanne Greenwood.
Peggy Ockuly Longoria ’67 on the death of her brother, Phillip Ockuly.
Denise Petras N’72, Kathy Petras N’74 and Laurel Petras Martinson N’77 on the death of their father, John Petras.
Ann Slane Sluman N’67 on the death of her sister, Mary Ellen Slane N’60. Mary Donovan Heidernreich ’68, Diane Donovan Courtade ’71 and Jean Donovan Amschlinger ’75 on the death of their sister and Jennifer Donovan Crissman ’98 on the death of her mother, Catherine Mae Donovan. Mary Anne Quinn-Buczyma ’70, Elizabeth Quinn McClimon ’71 and Carol Quinn Fassig ’74 on the death of their mother, Marian Quinn. Rosemary Neelon ’70 and Mary Jo Neelon Devan ’71 on the death of their brother, Joseph Neelon Sr. Deborah Donoughe Oller ’70 and Mary Kay Donoughe Schneider ’82 on the loss of their mother, Betty Jane Donoughe. Barb Spanulo ’70 on the death of her mother, Anna Mae Spanulo.
Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE
Christine Krach Haftman ’73, Katherine Krach ’77 and Lisa Krach Venn ’81 on the death of their mother Marceal Krach. Mary Jo Lapp ’73 and Anna Marie Lapp Taylor ’73 on the death of their mother, Angelina Lapp. Carol Benitez Cullen N’74 on the death of her mother, Francisca Benitez. Mary Pat Hoy Ellert N’74 and Kathleen Hoy Bennett N’75 on the death of their father, John Hoy.
Adrianne Uhl N’74, Cynthia Uhl Kalka N’75 and Claudette Uhl Mion N’77 on the death of their mother, Anita Uhl. Linda Kane ’75 on the death of her sister, Susanna Kane. Mary Bader Meyer ’75 and Anne Bader ’85 on the death of their father, Thomas Joseph Bader. Eileen Finnegan ’76 and Maureen Finnegan O’Brien ’76 on the death of their mother, Ellen Finnegan. Karen Domann Komondor N’ 76 and Mary Kay Domann Shelton N’77 on the death of their sister, Lynn Domann Caine N’74. Debbie Wolfe Korce ’76 and Denise Wolfe Gonzales ’86 on the death of their mother, Shirley Lasky Wolfe ’53. Melanie Gump Mailand ’76, Melinda Gump Masino ’79, Melissa Gump Krieger ’81 and Maureen Gump Bruno ’85 on the death of their mother, Patricia Gump. Dr. Cheryl Hagan O’Malley ’77 and Kelly Hagan King ’78 on the death of their sister, Colleen Carrocia. Patricia Sammon Aerni N’79 on the death of her father, Neil Thomas Jenks. Catherine Goebl Brigham N’79 on the death of her mother, Barbara Goebl. Beth Kruggel-Bugay N’79 on the death of her mother, Mary Kruggel. Sharon DelVecchio ’79 and Connie DelVecchio Stoll ’82 on the death of their father, James DelVecchio. Colleen Maher Wilk ’79 on the death of her husband, Jerome “Jerry” Wilk. Mary Rigda-Baker N’79 on the death of her mother, Helen Kurtos Rigda ’55. Alyse Boland Butts ’80 and Marua Boland Keast ’84 on the death of their mother, and Eileen Chambers Boland ’84 on the death of her mother in law, Mary Alice Boland ’47.
Denise Kovach Holzworth N’74 on the death of her brother, Raymond Kovach.
Joan Sweeney Oinos N’74 on the death of her husband, Phil Oinos.
Maureen Curran Oaklief ’74, Mary Kay Curran ’77 and Eileen Curran ’81 on the death of their father, The Honorable Judge John J. Curran.
Mary Kay Leneghan Skuhrovec ’80, Patricia Leneghan Gouker ’80 and Margaret Leneghan Osborn ’83 on the death of their brother, Peter P. Leneghan.
ClassNotes Alumnae
1930s
Connie Trunk Butcher ’81 on the death of her mother, Dorothy Trunk. Mary Denis Companey Lowe ’81 on the death of her mother, Mary Sue Companey.
Jill Martin Smith ’85 on the death of her sister, Mary “Judy” Martin Arthur ’78. Sharon Van Uum Novak ’86 on the death of her husband, Michael Novak.
Susan Liszewski Dupay ’81 on the death of her brother, Timothy Liszewski.
Donna Wiley ’80 on the death of her father, Donald Wiley.
Deborah Hayton Ropas ’81 on the death of her father, Robert Hayton.
Carolyn Frank Chimera ’87 on the death of her mother, Elizabeth Frank.
Mary Rose Antolik ’82 on the death of her mother, Virginia Antolik.
Lisa Chojnacki Shaw ’87 on the death of her mother, Susan Chojnacki.
Sharon Elbin Donnelly ’82 and Kimberly Elbin Fitzgerald ’85 on the death of their father, Norman Elbin.
Stephanie Arnould Mercer ’88 on the death of her sister, Marianne Arnould.
Beth Tirpak ’82, Ellen Tirpak Keating ’83 and Anne Marie Tirpak ’89 on the death of their father, Stephen G. Tirpak. Maryellen Sabolik Blankenship ’83 on the death of her father, Anthony Sabolik. Renee Messina Capuiso ’83 on the death of her sister, Cynthia Messina ’80. Mary Beth Kljun Mullaney ’83 on the death of her mother and Lynn Redella Klujn ’83 on the death of her mother in law, Karen Kljun. Terri Pujolas Kolonick ’85 on the death of her mother, Janice Pujolas.
Jennifer Setta ’90 on the death of her brother, Michael Setta. Erin Gillespie Dachtler ’93 on the death of her father, Kevin Gillespie. Jacqueline Wells Davis ’96 on the death of her father, Duane Wells. Cortney Hlynosky Angala ’99 and Holly Hlynosky ’02 on the death of their father, John Elliott Hlynosky. Jessica Jadyrch ’02, Janelle Jadrych Weaver ’03, Joceyln Jadrych ’07 and Jacklyn Jadrych’ 10 on the death of their father, John Jadrych. Ae Ja Kuhn ’05 on the death of her father, Karl Kuhn.
Please remember in your prayers the following deceased alumnae: Alice Kelly Monroe ’39 Mary Alice Boland ’47 Margaret “Maggie” Friel ’47 Doris Reitz Toth ’48 Margaret Ols Tucek ’48 Alice Ethel Krach Weisbarth ’48 Joan Dever Conrad ’49 Marilyn Bulger King ’50 Joan Pesta Laporte ’50 Alice “Pat” Heverin Mooney ’50 Patricia Wissing Volle ’51 Dolores Boehnlein Riegelmayer ’52 Grace Ann Liska Staab ’52 Shirley Lasky Wolfe ’53 Elaine G. Petrill ’53 Mary Kurtos Rigda ’53 Mary Ann Landino Gavin ’54 Donna Rogers Boleman ’55 Mary Ellen Colbert ’56
Mary Eillen Hickey Donovan ’56 Patricia Corrigan Ciccotti ’57 Carolyn Marquard Fulkerson ’57 Mary Ellen Slane N’60 Marilyn Lauer Haas ’61 Margaret Malinak N’61 Kathleen Gross Stincic N’62 Betty Zanyi Bender ’63 Eileen Denehy N’64 Charlotte Rini Root N’66 Barbara Roetzer Miller N’69 Sue Reitz Dolch ’70 Beverly A. Miller Nicole ’70 Joan Cunningham Exum N’73 Lynn Domann Caine N’74 Mary “Judy” Martin Arthur ’78 Cynthia Messina ’80 Patricia Reynolds Keeton ’83
*Please note that these memoriams are as of August 1, 2020.
Best wishes to Rita Friedel Nist ’38 who recently celebrated her 100th birthday.
1960s
Marianne Novy N’61 was recognized for her work and accomplishment with a special Lifetime Achievement Iris Marion Young Award for Social Justice by The University of Pittsburgh Gender, Sexuality and Women’s Studies Program. Her latest book, Shakespeare and Feminist Theory is available from Bloomsbury.
1980s
Rita Ginley Andolsen ’82 was recently named Cleveland State University’s Marketing Vice President, University Marketing & Communications. Susane Seckers Quallich ’89 MSN, ANP-BC, NP-C, CUNP, FAANP became the first nurse practitioner to be appointed as medical school faculty for the Department of Urology and for the entire University of Michigan Health System.
2000s
D. Nicole Trethewey-Gehring ’00 married Tiago Gehring on December 29, 2019 in Florianopolis, Brazil. Eileen Dorsey ’01 was commissioned to create a mural at Barrio in Columbus. The mural honors Dr. Amy Acton as part of their “Day of the Dead” murals. Gina Campellone Schultz ’04 married Jason Schultz on September 21, 2019. Sisters Laura Campellone Daher ’02 and Christina Campellone Rodriguez ’08 were in the wedding party. Rachel Bonoan ’06 is a nurse practitioner in the cardiovascular step down unit at Cleveland Clinic.
Rachel Falsone ’06 is a nurse practitioner working in the University of Pennsylvania Emergency Department. Natalie Rodriquez Foster ’06 married Randall Foster on March 14, 2020. The Matron of Honor was her sister, Nora Rodriquez Slater ’08. Brooke Danforth Miles ’09 married Stephen Miles on December 31, 2019 at the Crowne Plaza, Cleveland Playhouse Square. The Maid of Honor was Alyssa Armeni Spencer ’09. Bridesmaids were Molly Messner Lewis ’09, Elizabeth Viccarone ’09 and Alex Miles Stiffler ’06.
2010s
Emily Monahan Nemeth ’11 married William Monahan on September 7, 2019 in Rocky River. Wedding party included Erica Papcum ’11, Maid of Honor, attended by Elizabeth Kraus ’11, Meaghan McCarthy-Silver ’11 and Ellen Skonce ’11. Annie Webster Akomeah ’13 married Bismark Akomeah January 11, 2020 in Columbus. Wedding party included Mary Kate Caja Blankenship ’13, Emily Caja ’13 and Julie Colaianni ’13. Jenea I. Adams ’15 was recognized with an Honorable Mention in the 2020 National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Program. She is working toward her Ph.D. in Genomics & Computational Biology at the University of Pennsylvania. Emily Hanes ’16 married Nate Henderson on April 4, 2020. Veronica Martin ’16 was recognized as the University of Toledo’s Outstanding Graduating Student for the Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry. Veronica has been accepted into the University of Toledo’s Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry’s graduate program.
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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 Saint Joseph Academy Admission Events for 8th Graders Fall Open House: Sunday, October 18, 12-6 p.m. Families from any grade are welcome to attend. Families will meet our amazing teachers, tour the Academy building and the newly renovated Makerspace innovation lab, as well as readapted space that is now Fitzmaurice Hall. Registration is required; walk-ins are not permitted. Each family tour will last one hour. Visit www.sja1890.org/admission. Admission/Scholarship Testing with Parent Forum: Saturday, October 24, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Registration required; $20 fee. All 8th grade girls considering attending Saint Joseph Academy are invited to take the High School Placement test (HSPT). While students are testing, parents/guardians are invited to
attend an informative presentation beginning at 9 a.m., to learn more about what makes the Academy’s unique, the admission process and tuition assistance. Registration is limited. Learn more at www.sja1890.org/admission. Admission/Scholarship Testing (no parent forum): Wednesday, October 30, 4-7 p.m. and Saturday, November 7, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Registration is required; $20 fee. Admission Only Testing: Saturday, January 9, 2021 and Wednesday, February 3, 2021, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Registration is required; $20 fee; admission consideration only, not for scholarship consideration.Â