3rd Annual "25 Under 35" Awards

SAINT JOSEPH AC ADEMY

TWENTY

25 35 U N D E R

THIRTY

SAINT JOSEPH AC ADEMY

Saturday, June 17, 2017

Once again, Saint Joseph Academy alumnae make us proud with their dedication to others, academic accomplishments and compassionate leadership. The honorees for this year’s “25 Under 35” award represent a group of young women who have demonstrated impressive achievements, spirituality, compassionate leadership and service. Professions represented by this distinguished group of alumnae include educators, attorneys, healthcare professionals, as well as a video producer, biomedical engineer and Ph.D. candidates.

2017 SELECTION COMMITTEE Cheryl Brady Strom ’87 Regional Director, Origination, The Riverside Company Cheryl Hagan O’Malley ’77 Vice President Patient Care Services and Nursing, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center Karen Strebelow Barrett ’83 Vice President and Branch Manager, Charles Schwab, Saint Joseph Academy Board Member Beth Sebesta Piper ’78 Development Leader, Deloitte Julia Ann Love Partner, Thompson Hine LLP, Saint Joseph Academy Board Member

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“25 UNDER 35” HONOREES FOR 2017 Anne Bernat ’04 Katherine Colborn ’10 Susan Cullen ’04 Sarah Ginty Edington ’08 Brenna Fasko ’02 Jacqueline Gonzales ’03 Brooke Hamilton ’09 Kara Isabella ’08 Lauren Kluth ’09 Leah Baxendale Kozlowski ’03 Amanda Kaserman Leininger ’07 Rebecca Mahall Leiter ’02 Meredith McGuire ’09

Emily McGuirk ’03 Maisie Regotti Mitchell ’07 Emily Paskert ’02 Kathe Pocker ’10 Lisa Sanniti ’03 Laura Schlecht ’02 Tracy Carr Schwab ’04 Beth Phillips Synk ’03 Jennifer Moloney Taylor ’06 Alaina Manning Wagner ’06 Mary Wallenhorst ’08 Eileen Wyza ’09

“We are so thrilled to recognize another amazing group of young alumnae as ‘25 Under 35’ honorees. All of the nominees, including each of the award winners, 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. We are so blessed to have such a vibrant and successful young alumnae community, and we are so proud of these 25 women.”

Alumnae Director Allison Busser ’04

ANNE BERNAT ’04

KATHERINE COLBORN ’10

Science Department Chair • Elyria Catholic High School

Video Producer and Artist • Scenario Learning

Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering, University of Notre Dame • Master of Education in Chemistry, University of Notre Dame

Bachelor of Arts in English, Xavier University • Artist Residency, Burren College of Art • Bachelor of Arts in Irish Literature, Irish Social and Political History, Irish Language and Irish Geography, National University of Ireland in Galway

Resident of Elyria, OH

Sister of Veronica Colborn ’12 and Elizabeth Colborn ’14

ACHIEVEMENTS • Recipient of the Modeling Instruction Certificate of Excellence, 2015 • Recipient of the Elyria Catholic Pillar Person of the Month, 2015 • Selected to co-author the Secondary Science Curriculum for the Diocese of Cleveland, 2014 Working with students to realize their education potential has always been a dream of Anne’s since she was a peer tutor at Saint Joseph Academy. She turned that dream into a reality.

Anne’s major at the University of Notre Dame was Chemical Engineering, yet she chose to pursue a passion in education and giving back to the community. She enrolled in the Alliance for Catholic Education Program at the University of Notre Dame, a two-year teaching and service fellowship. Anne continues to model and build on her personal and professional leadership vision through her choices: working to become the Science Department Chair, bringing innovative modeling instruction to her students, helping in the redesign of a new chemistry laboratory and her dedication to lifelong learning through seminars and workshops for cutting edge instruction.

Anne lives the character of a Saint Joseph Academy graduate quality of serving the dear neighbor without distinction by serving as a chaperone and volunteer on her school’s Alternate Spring Breaks, in which students assist National Relief Services in national disaster cleanup. Anne also leads the St. Teresa of Avila Parish in liturgical music.

Resident of Cincinnati, OH

ACHIEVEMENTS • Recipient of Honorable Mention in Figure and Portrait competition for “OCD,” Awarded by Contemporary Art Gallery Online, 2015 • Recipient of the Three Arts Scholarship: First Place, Honorable Mention and Longacre Printmaker Award, Awarded by Cincinnati Women’s Club, 2014 • Recipient of the University Art Award, Xavier University Art Department, 2014 • Recipient of the Sweeney English Award, Xavier University English Department, 2014 Since she graduated from Saint Joseph Academy, Katherine continues to demonstrate leadership, service, stewardship and a dedication to education and her faith. She has been passionately involved with the development of a Catholic young professionals’ group in Cincinnati called “Poco a Poco” and is a co-leader of a small group leader for Bellarmine Chapel, where she also serves on the Evangelical Leadership Team. The charism of the Sisters of the Congregation of St. Joseph is present in Katherine’s work as an artist, especially by the message of being one with creation. During her most recent month in Ireland during her artist residency, she focused on the message of the earth and its natural beauty.

Katherine is inspired by Saint Joseph Academy’s commitment to empowering and educating strong women, and works to promote the importance of advancement of women in her workplace and the Church.

What Would You Tell Your Twelfth Grade Self?

“Hold close to your friends, family and faith. Everything in life around you will change constantly. In all the learning and growing, these are the things that will anchor you and remind you of what is truly important and sustaining in your life. Say yes to as much as you can, learn as much as possible, and stay active in all senses of the word, but never be afraid to put yourself and your own sense of balance ahead of all else.”

Katherine Colborn ’10 3

SUSAN CULLEN ’04

SARAH GINTY EDINGTON ’08

Speech Language Pathologist • United States Army

Pharmacy Supervisor • CVS Health

Bachelor of Fine and Applied Arts in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, Certificate of Parent and Child Education, The University of Akron • Masters of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology, Specialization in Literacy and School Certification, The Ohio State University

Doctorate of Pharmacy (PharmD) with double major in Organizational Communication, Ohio Northern University

Resident of Fort Riley, KS

ACHIEVEMENTS • Certified Arbringer Facilitator, United States Army Medical Department, 2017 • Graduate of the American Speech Language and Hearing Association (ASHA) Leadership Development Program for Young Professionals • Recipient of the Award for Continuing Education (ACE) Award from ASHA, 2017 Today’s society presents a challenge to remain steadfast in one’s faith, morals and personal integrity. Susan remains grateful to Saint Joseph Academy for both preparing and empowering her to enter the world as a woman grounded in her ideals and dedicated to serving others. From the first day of her Junior Professional Shadowing experience, Susan fell in love with a career that has shaped her life. Susan felt called to serve the United States Army as a civilian soldier so she could provide clinical services on base and only within military treatment facilities. As a Speech-Language Pathologist with the United States Army and the lead and primary Speech Pathologist across the State of Kansas, she strives to demonstrate compassion with each patient (soldier) and their family members. Susan volunteers with her community by providing mentorship opportunities for students, as well as shadowing opportunities to inspire young women interested in healthcare professions. Susan also volunteers her time at a local support group for survivors of traumatic brain injuries.

Sister of Emily Ginty ’12 Resident of Nashville, TN

ACHIEVEMENTS • Speaker at the American Heart Association’s “Go Red for Women” event, 2017 • Inductee in Omicron Delta Kappa, The National Leadership Honor Society Sarah exemplifies personal integrity and emerging wisdom in her career, which has enabled her to become an evolving leader within CVS Health. Her motto is to “just say yes,” which has helped Sarah broaden her perspective and embrace new challenges. Sarah provided valuable input for the creation of the Academy’s Health Sciences Honors Program. While in pharmacy school, Sarah traveled to several different “practice sites”, including a Sioux Reservation in South Dakota and a hospital pharmacy at Elmendorf Air Force Base in Anchorage, Alaska. Just two years after graduating from pharmacy school, she rose to a corporate pharmacy supervisor position, managing 24 CVS pharmacies, 65 pharmacists and more than 300 pharmacy technicians in the greater Nashville area. CVS Health has helped Sarah serve her dear neighbors in Nashville, as she is a proud supporter of “Go Red for Women,” an initiative of the American Heart Association. Sarah had the honor of speaking on behalf of CVS Health at the “Go Red for Women” event in April 2017.

In addition, Sarah supports the Lung Force and Easter Seals and volunteers at their annual fishing tournament in Nashville for children with special needs.

What Would You Tell an Eighth Grade Girl About Saint Joseph Academy?

“Saint Joseph Academy’s faculty and staff are so passionate about the education and well-being of their students that Saint Joseph Academy attendees receive a quality, personal education.”

Sarah Ginty Edington ’08 4

BRENNA FASKO ’02

JACQUELINE GONZALES ’03

Attorney Advisor • The Social Security Administration

Director of Global Marketing & Communications • Shake Shack

Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, The Ohio State University • Juris Doctor, University of Akron School of Law

Bachelor of Arts in Communications, John Carroll University

Sister of Caryn Fasko ’03

Sister of Caroline Gonzales ’05 and Abigail Gonzales ’15

Resident of Akron, OH

Resident of Brooklyn, NY

ACHIEVEMENTS

ACHIEVEMENTS

• Selected by a Federal Magistrate to serve as his law clerk beginning in August 2017 • Member, Junior League of Akron • Board Member, Summit Art Space • Akron Law Review Editorial Board, 2008-09 • Recipient of the CALI Awards in Conflicts and Insurance Law

• Leadership Development in Finance Program, Dollar Bank, FSB, 2007-2008 • Student Co-Founder of Saint Joseph Academy’s Ultimate Fan Club • Student Co-Creator of “Paws for Pride” at Saint Joseph Academy

Brenna’s love for people led her to major in psychology at The Ohio State University; however, it was her passion for social justice that led her to law school. Her compassion for others drove her to become a disability lawyer, where her empathetic and patient spirit is shown to her clients. Brenna advises administrative law judges on complex issues of the Social Security Act and writes decisions regarding disability benefits. She is involved in a mentoring program designed to assist newly appointed advisors perform their duties. Brenna’s educational foundation from Saint Joseph Academy has kept her driven to succeed and achieve her dream job, as she was appointed to a four-year clerkship with Federal Magistrate Judge John Greenberg, North District of Ohio, Cleveland, at the United States District Court. Brenna is a member of the Junior League of Akron, and serves as a board member for the Summit Art Space, as she believes it is important to improve and contribute to the community in which you live.

Jacqueline Gonzalez has always expressed a concern for others. During her time at Saint Joseph Academy, she launched a fundraiser for oppressed young women who lacked the means of receiving an education. She had heard about the program on The Oprah Winfrey Show and Oprah stated, “no girl should be deprived of an education.” Jacqueline knew that knowledge and education opened doors. She was also able to recognize that being open and tolerant to people of various backgrounds was a source of knowledge and unification of the world. Saint Joseph Academy encouraged Jacqueline’s leadership skills, lifelong learning, compassionate treatment of all people and a global perspective. As the current Global Director of Marketing & Communications for Shake Shack and former National Lead, Growth Marketing, Chipotle Mexican Grill, Jacqueline has been able to take these perspectives and has lived them out in her career.

What Would You Tell Your Twelfth Grade Self?

“The things that are the most rewarding in life are often the most difficult. Good things come to people who stick with it and believe in their own abilities.”

Brenna Fasko ’02

“Believe in yourself; take time to define your dreams so that you can create a plan for how to achieve them. Take the time to define your goals, figure out what makes you happy and what you want, as well as what you don’t want, so that you can live your passionate life!”

Susan Cullen ’04

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BROOKE HAMILTON ’09

KARA ISABELLA ’08

Associate, Gallagher Sharp, LLP

Designer • Kara Isabella

Bachelor of Arts in English and Philosophy, Baldwin Wallace University • Juris Doctor, Cleveland-Marshall College of Law, Cleveland State University

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design, Bachelor of Arts in the History of Art and Architecture, Miami University (OH) • Master of Fine Arts in Design for Social Innovation, School of Visual Arts

Resident of Cleveland, OH

Resident of New York, NY

ACHIEVEMENTS • Graduated summa cum laude from Cleveland-Marshall College of Law, 2016 • Recipient of Spangenberg Trial Award, 2014-2015 • Recipient of the CALI High A Awards, 2013-2014 • Graduated summa cum laude from Baldwin Wallace University, 2013 • Recipient of the Bonnie Raye Scholar Athlete Award, 2012-2013 • Holds Baldwin Wallace University’s record for lowest scoring average in Women’s Golf • Achieved the Capital One Academic All-American First Team, 2012-2013 • Finalist in the 2012 NCAA Division III National Golf Tournament, 2011-2012 • Recipient of the Lillian and Larry D. Bibbee Scholarship, 2010-2011 After graduation from Saint Joseph Academy, Brooke wanted a career that could benefit everyone in Cleveland. She chose to go to law school as a way to give back to the community.

Brooke has found multiple ways to give back through her profession as a young attorney. She volunteers through the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association’s 3Rs program, where attorneys go to local public schools to teach high school students civil rights and social studies to prepare for state tests, as well as helping students learn more about their rights and the U.S. Constitution. She volunteers as a judge for high school mock trial competitions, encouraging youth interested in pursuing a career in law. Brooke is involved in the Bar Association’s Women in Law Section, which seeks to empower women in a predominantly male career field. During Brooke’s final year of law school, her father passed away from liver cancer. To honor his memory, Brooke began volunteering for the American Liver Foundation in 2016.

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ACHIEVEMENTS • Recipient of the 18 of the Last 9 Young Alumni Award, Miami University, 2016 • Designed the Weekend Walk • Developed Backyard Lots, a program transforming vacant lots into safe and local recreational outlets for youth to self-organize sporting events, 2015 • Recipient of the Best in Class, Graphic Design Award, Miami University, 2012 • Selected Artist for Participate: Designing with User Generated Content. Book by Helen Armstrong and Zvezdana Stojmirovic (Princeton Architectural Press, 2011) The act of serving others has greatly impacted Kara’s career and life. The core of Kara’s work consists of working with the end user to develop solutions that will assist and empower them. While studying for her Master of Fine Arts in Design for Social Innovation, Kara created the brand and narrative for the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) new Policy Planning Unit, conducting ethnographic interviews to devise insights for the future trajectory of the unit. In 2016, Kara joined the NYC Department of Small Business Services inaugural cohort of Neighborhood 360 Fellows. She worked with Two Bridges Neighborhood Council in Manhattan’s Lower East Side to co-develop commercial revitalization projects and connect local stakeholders to New York City resources. Kara worked with business owners, residents and stakeholders to create trilingual signage in New York City’s Chinatown, Lower East Side and Two Bridges neighborhoods.

In addition, Kara has worked with American Greetings Corporation and Ann Taylor on their respective marketing and social media strategy.

LAUREN KLUTH ’09

LEAH BAXENDALE KOZLOWSKI ’03 Assistant Head of School and International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme Coordinator • Montessori High School

Founder and President • CLESeats Bachelor of Arts in Communications • John Carroll University

Bachelor of Arts in World Languages and Cultures, Mercyhurst University • TEFL/TESOL Certificate, Pablo de Olavide University and University of Seville

Sister of Felicia Kluth ’05 Resident of Lakewood, OH

Daughter of Linda Sikora Baxendale ’68 • Sister of Molly Baxendale ’07 • Granddaughter of Margaret Mary Wagner Baxendale ’40 †

ACHIEVEMENTS • (CLESeats) Winner of Cleveland Scene’s Best Local Startup, 2016 • (CLESeats) Named 1 of 25 Small Businesses Making an Impact on Northeast Ohio by Sixth City Marketing Lauren’s business venture, CLESeats, a free website and mobile app that offers special deals and discounts to Cleveland area restaurants, has become a great success.

Through her company CLESeats, Lauren has created a mobile way for Clevelanders to access information, specials and recommendations for restaurants in the Cleveland area.

Besides assisting with the promotion of local businesses, Lauren helps thousands of people throughout the city feel more connected with their hometown. Lauren has become a role model for other young female professionals to look up to for professional guidance, especially as an entrepreneur.

Lauren has come back to the Academy to speak with current students about her experiences through the annual Women’s Leadership Symposium and “Women Leading in the 21st Century” class. Lauren developed into a dynamic leader at Saint Joseph Academy, serving as a member of the class leadership team and keeping alive the memory of her classmate and best friend, Dana Care ’09, who passed away during their senior year.

What Would You Tell Your Twelfth Grade Self?

“Time is key. You can overcome any obstacle and achieve success by simply allowing time to run its course. Don’t stress about the future—enjoy the journey and always remember what’s truly important.”

Lauren Kluth ’09

Resident of North Royalton, OH

ACHIEVEMENTS • Contributing author of The Whole-School Montessori Handbook,The Evolution of Montessori High School • Earned certificate for Montessori Orientation to Adolescent Studies • Inducted into the Nu Delta Alpha Honor Society, Mercyhurst University • Inducted into the Phi Eta Sigma Honor Society, Mercyhurst University Leah continues to apply Saint Joseph Academy’s values by making it a priority to pass on the gift of knowledge to her students.

She shows them the benefits of helping others: building strong relationships with peers, contributing to causes that she is passionate about and working for a more compassionate world.

Leah has led groups of students on several mission and service trips, including taking students to Omaha, Nebraska to build homes for low-income families along with Habitat for Humanity. In her time at Montessori High School, Leah’s position has evolved from teaching Spanish to becoming part of the administration because of her ability to connect with her students and peers, her leadership and unwavering work ethic. Leah is a true leader, earning the trust and respect of her colleagues and students.

What Would You Tell An Eighth Grade Girl About Saint Joseph Academy?

“You will learn here. Not just from your classes, but you will learn what inspires you. You will learn more about who you are. You will learn to care about yourself, others and be provided an education that will help you to achieve your dreams.”

Brooke Hamilton ’09 7

What Would You Tell An Eighth Grade Girl About SJA?

AMANDA KASERMAN LEININGER ’07

REBECCA MAHALL LEITER ’02

Account Manager • APG Office Furnishings

Funeral Director, Embalmer and Assistant Manager of Seminars and Events • Sunset Memorial Park and Dostal Bokas Funeral Services

Bachelor of Science in Interior Design, Bowling Green State University • Master of Science in Interior Design, Eastern Michigan University

Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.Sc.), Pre-Medicine/PreMedical Studies, University of Mount Union • Mortuary Science and Embalming/ Embalmer, Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science Associate of Science

Resident of North Olmsted, OH

Granddaughter of Joan Geiss Mahall ’46 †

ACHIEVEMENTS • National Board Member and Local Chapter Member, United States Green Building Council • President of the Cleveland West Kappa Delta Alumnae Chapter • Published Shelter Design: Four Takeaways from My Master’s Thesis (Nexus, 2015) • Published Global Modernization Review (World Scientific Publishing Company, 2015) • Published Interior Design in the Realm of Social Services: Housing the Homeless (Proquest, 2013) Amanda’s experience at Saint Joseph Academy provided her with a foundation of skills to strive for more. She was recently promoted to the role of Account Manager at APG Office Furnishings. Although she runs the largest corporate global account for the company, she still finds time to serve others throughout the day. She participates in multiple organizations that challenge her to think critically about large scale issues and how she can make a difference for these organizations. Amanda was recently nominated as President of the West Cleveland Kappa Delta Alumnae Chapter, an organization that partners with domestic violence shelters, Girl Scouts of America and various other local charities. Amanda is a volunteer for the Greater Cleveland Habitat for Humanity, Domestic Violence & Child Advocacy Center and Virginia Marti. Amanda and her family are actively involved in St. Brendan’s Parish, where they participate in service events and fundraisers for the parish.

Resident of North Olmsted, OH

ACHIEVEMENTS • Eucharistic Minister • Volunteer at the Catholic Charities Diocese of Cleveland • Graduate of Vernie Fountains Restorative Art Courses Rebecca possesses empowerment, faith, compassion, serving others, demonstrating integrity—all which are seeds that have been planted, nurtured and developed over time because of attending Saint Joseph Academy. She is an embalmer, licensed crematory operator, pet crematory operator, certified celebrant, graduate of Vernie Fountains restorative art courses and cemetarian. Her profession enables her to work with families during one of the most vulnerable and difficult times of their lives. While at Saint Joseph Academy, Rebecca decided to do her Junior Professional Shadowing at the Coroner’s Office. At that time, she made a decision to pursue a career in Mortuary Science, a career most people (especially women) do not pursue. As a speaker at the Academy’s Women’s Leadership Symposium, Rebecca shared with students there is nothing you cannot do, to always believe in yourself and know your Saint Joseph Academy experiences will impact and influence your life!

What Would You Tell An Eighth Grade Girl About Saint Joseph Academy? “ Saint Joseph Academy offers an advanced educational opportunity, while keeping faith the center of focus, which is an important principle for how you approach life.”

Amanda Kaserman Leininger ’07

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“ Attending an all-girls school tends to bond you to your friends in a unique way. I am still closer with the friends I made at Saint Joseph Academy than with friends I have made anywhere else in my life.”

Emily McGuirk ’03

MEREDITH McGUIRE ’09

EMILY McGUIRK ’03

Ph.D. Candidate • The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine

Mental Health Technician • Akron Children’s Hospital

Bachelor of Science in Biology, Saint Vincent College • Ph.D. Candidate, The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine

Bachelor of Arts in Art Therapy and Psychology, Mercyhurst University • Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology and Art Therapy, Adler University

Resident of Baltimore, MD

Daughter of Mary Horvath McGuirk N’70 • Sister of Julianne McGuirk ’99 and Maureen McGuirk ’06 Resident of Akron, OH

ACHIEVEMENTS • Co-Founder of the student chapter of The Thomistic Institute, The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine • Recipient of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) F31 Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award (NRSA) Pre-Doctoral Fellowship, 2016 • Recipient of the American Heart Association PreDoctoral Fellowship, 2015 • Recipient of the National Science Foundation (NSF) Graduate Research Fellowship Honorable Mention, 2015 Meredith is currently a Ph.D. Candidate at The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine in the Department of Cell Biology. She is working towards being a part of a team that will research disease and be able to intervene in therapeutics, adding to general knowledge of the body. Meredith has learned to serve the dear neighbor without distinction from her time at Saint Joseph Academy and is turning that into her life’s calling and vocation. At The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Meredith has co-founded a student chapter of The Thomistic Institute, an initiative of the Dominican order, which “exists to promote Catholic truth in our contemporary world by strengthening the intellectual formation of Christians at universities, in the Church and in the wider public square.” Through lecture series and discussions, the Hopkins chapter seeks to provide a forum where scientists can engage the deep and complex questions about life, faith, and nature of science with the same level of logic and rigor they apply to their scientific endeavors.

ACHIEVEMENTS • Nominated for the Outstanding Student Award for the School of Arts and Humanities, Mercyhurst University • Published senior thesis for the Honors Program, “Birth Order and Romantic Relationship Styles and Attitudes in College Students,” (North American Journal of Psychology, 2008) • Graduated summa cum laude from Mercyhurst University and was an Honors Scholar, 2007 Emily’s empathetic spirit has served her well, as she works with adolescents who suffer from mental and behavioral health issues. Emily listens to the issues facing each adolescent and helps them work through their problems by using the process of creating art to help them express their emotions because many of them do not know how to properly do so themselves. She showcases compassionate leadership by helping adolescents in her care understand their problems and grow from their emotional and mental states. Emily assists in leading groups where teenagers suffering from a range of mental and emotional issues come together to discuss their lives. These problems range from everyday problems to severe psychosis. She lets each patient know she is there to support them through their suffering, as well as give ways in which each individual can work through a problem. In a world that is constantly changing, Emily is a voice of reason and believes in providing compassion to those who need help. In addition to her professional work, Emily volunteers at Akron Children’s Hospital, Open Studio in the Expressive Therapies Center and donates blood regularly.

What Would You Tell Your Twelfth Grade Self?

“Never give up and always keep going. God will not put anything in front of you that you cannot handle.

We only have one time to do this whole life thing. Keep your faith and be strong.”

Rebecca Mahall Leiter ’02 9

MAISIE REGOTTI MITCHELL ’07

EMILY PASKERT ’02

Intervention Specialist • Brunswick City Schools

Educator • Metro Catholic School

Bachelor of Science in Education, Walsh University

Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education and Special Education, Mercyhurst University • Master of Education, Curriculum and Instruction, Cleveland State University

Resident of Brunswick, OH

Granddaughter of Mary Lou Lauer Boyle T’33 † Resident of Cleveland, OH

ACHIEVEMENTS • Inducted into Kappa Delta Pi, International Honor Society in Education • Selected as Needs Assessment Administrator Assistant at Orphanage and Schools in Uganda, 2010 Maisie leads a life of faith and dedication to the education of young people. Through her profession as an educator, Maisie serves as an Intervention Specialist for Brunswick City Schools, striving to help each family navigate the world of special education and encourage the potential within each student.

Her selfless and positive attitude has helped Maisie foster positive relationships with the students she serves and her teaching team. Maisie leads a team of paraprofessionals and advises how to help the children in their classroom, and by finding resources for them. Her faith helps her see Christ in each of her students, even when facing a challenge. Because of her dedication to young people, Maisie has participated on service trips to Appalachia, where she assisted with the rebuilding of homes and helped to organize a soup kitchen.

Maisie is also an assistant at an orphanage and various schools in Uganda.

ACHIEVEMENTS • Inducted into Kappa Delta Pi International Honor Society in Education, Past Research Presenter • Created an outdoor classroom and garden at Metro Catholic School Emily has served as an Intervention Specialist at Metro Catholic School for Kindergarten and Grade One students for more than ten years. Metro Catholic Schools is the only Cleveland Catholic elementary school with extensive programs to assist refugee students and those with cognitive learning disabilities. Emily is trained in environmental sustainability learning through the Earth Partnership for Schools Program. Last summer, Emily helped to train more than 30 greater Cleveland area educators in sustainability education. Emily’s passion for people has led to admirable volunteer opportunities. She volunteers for the Cuyahoga County Board of Developmental Disabilities’ annual musical theater production event, “Razzle Dazzle,” a production including adults with developmental disabilities and community volunteers. As a sibling of a person with developmental disabilities, Emily feels it is important to foster creative opportunities for people with special needs.

What Would You Tell an Eighth Grade Girl About Saint Joseph Academy? “ Saint Joseph Academy is a fantastic high school because it fosters faith, service and community.

You will leave Saint Joseph Academy with a stronger faith, value for service to others and friends that will last a lifetime.”

Maisie Regotti Mitchell ’07

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“ Saint Joseph Academy has an incredible sense of community, from the teachers to the friends you make. It also creates a very special faith environment, as all of the retreats and campus ministry programs combined with the wonderful Sisters at the Congregation of St. Joseph next door make Saint Joseph Academy a very inspiring place to grow in faith.”

Kathe Pocker ’10

KATHE POCKER ’10

LISA SANNITI ’03

Biomedical Engineer • AtriCure, Inc.

Special Assistant United States Attorney • The Social Security Administration

Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering, University of Cincinnati

Bachelor of Arts in Media Studies, University of Mount Union • Juris Doctorate, Akron University School of Law

Resident of Cincinnati, OH

Daughter of Norine Gedeon Sanniti ’76 • Sister of Megan Sanniti ’09 Resident of Cleveland, OH

ACHIEVEMENTS • Cincinnatus Presidential Scholar, University of Cincinnati • University Honors Scholar, University of Cincinnati • Tau Beta Pi Engineering Honorary, University of Cincinnati • Cincinnati Women in Excellence and Spirit Together (CWEST) Women’s Honorary Society • Finalist for the C-Ring Women’s Leadership Award • Cincinnati Children’s Case Study Competition, 1st place • Recipient of Encouragement Award from Phi Sigma Rho Engineering Sorority While Kathe’s resume speaks to her involvement in social justice, the Church and other causes that are important to her, her daily actions show her commitment to the Saint Joseph Academy values. Kathe mentors interns, leads volunteer team projects for the American Heart Association and Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater Cincinnati and began a recycling program at AtriCure, Inc. Her supervisor entrusts Kathe with leading difficult projects because she has the intellectual curiosity and confidence to take them on. Kathe has developed a passion for social justice and serving those in need, which has led her to a career in biomedical engineering and her dedication to bettering patients’ lives. During college, Kathe created her own capstone project focused on designing a medical device for use in developing countries that included a self-led learning trip to Guatemala. She also took three courses with a humanitarian aid/global health focus, which took Kathe to Tanzania, Kenya, South Africa and Ghana. After graduating college, Kathe traveled with students to Mae Sot, Thailand to work with GlobeMed and assist undocumented Burmese migrants with healthcare, worker rights and education.

ACHIEVEMENTS • Recipient of “Exemplary Contribution or Service Award” and “Recognition of Contribution Performance Award”, The Social Security Administration • Member of the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association, 2010-Present • Chair of the Young Lawyers Section, Executive Council, 2013-Present Lisa appreciates the value of public service that Saint Joseph Academy has instilled in each and every student. She believes in serving others and that the community is the foundation of good citizenship. She has dedicated her career to public service and government work and thanks Saint Joseph Academy for helping her appreciate its importance. Lisa has worked with the Cleveland Municipal Housing Court as a Law Clerk, Central Collection Agency, where she served as Assistant Administrator and Assistant Director of Law, and currently works for the Social Security Administration as the Special Assistant United States Attorney. Because of her passion for the community, Lisa has volunteered as a swim coach with Special Olympics Ohio. She is a member of the Executive Council and CLE Chair of the Young Lawyers Section at the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association, which offers networking and training opportunities for new attorneys and law students. The Young Lawyers Section also volunteers in the community, serving meals at Ronald McDonald House of Cleveland and working the toy drive at University Hospitals Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital.

Lisa believes it is crucial for everyone to be an active participant in their community.

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LAURA SCHLECHT ’02

TRACY CARR SCHWAB ’04 Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner • University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center

Vice President • HL Group Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Minor in Communications and Media Studies, Fordham University

Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Case Western Reserve University • Master of Science in Nursing, Kent State University

Sister of Anne Schlecht Ference ’00 Resident of New York, NY

Resident of Cleveland, OH

ACHIEVEMENTS • Rookie of the Year, Formula PR • Fun Committee Member, Formula PR Laura has always been a person who treats all that she encounters not just with respect, but with a smile. She has a personality that unites people with her welcoming ways.

Laura has been recognized as the Rookie of the Year Award, All Star and Hit of the Month for outstanding professional achievement. Laura takes pride in mentoring and maintaining a very close relationship with the many young women she manages. Laura lives out a wonderful balance of professional success partnered with time for others as a volunteer for New York Cares. Laura is currently a Vice President at HL Group, a public relations and marketing firm in New York City, where she co-leads the lifestyle division, recently named “The Most Powerful PR Firm in America” by New York Observer. Laura leads brand strategy, communications campaign development and execution for a suite of global clients, which have included Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts, Expedia, Amazon, Google and Stella Artois, among others.

She currently manages a team of eight and attributes her leadership skills honed during her years at Saint Joseph Academy, where she served as captain of the Jaguars’ basketball team.

ACHIEVEMENTS • Recipient of Sigma Theta Tau International, Honor Society of Nursing’s New Member Pillar Award • Recipient of the Delta Xi Chapter Student Leadership Intern • Chairwoman, Cleveland PurpleStride for Pancreatic Cancer Embodying the mission of Saint Joseph Academy and service to the dear neighbor without distinction, Tracy recently planned and executed a charity drive for Project Night Night, a non-profit organization providing homeless children with the most basic of needs to provide comfort and security in the form of a “night night” package. Each package contains a book, blanket and stuffed animal, nestled into a tote bag.

Tracy and her team exceeded their goal and donated more than 440 night night packages to five shelters throughout Northeast Ohio. Displaying personal integrity, Tracy has taken on a leadership position in Sigma Theta Tau International, Nursing Honors Society. This organization serves to advance world health and celebrate nursing excellence through scholarship, leadership and service. Using this platform, Tracy has advocated for empathetic justice and is planning a mission trip to Haiti in 2018. Since graduating in May 2017 with her Master of Science in Nursing with a specialization as an AdultGerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Tracy wants to volunteer her time and skills as a nurse practitioner to provide for underserved populations.

What Would You Tell An Eighth Grade Girl About Saint Joseph Academy?

“Saint Joseph Academy is a wonderful, supportive environment to make the transition from girlhood to womanhood. The teachers and staff members really encourage all students to be their own strong, independent person which is such an important ability in life.”

Beth Phillips Synk ’03

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BETH PHILLIPS SYNK ’03

JENNIFER MOLONEY TAYLOR ’06

Communications Manager • Cleveland Clinic

Assistant Creative Program Director • American Greetings Corporation

Bachelor of Arts in Media Theory and Production • University of Western Ontario

Creative Director • Blkdog Design

Resident of Berea, OH

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Communication Design, University of Dayton Sister of Katherine Moloney ’01 and Mary Moloney Sever ’05 Resident of Cleveland, OH

ACHIEVEMENTS • Bayshore Broadcasting Corporation Newscaster of the Year • Cleveland Clinic Caregiver Celebrations Tier Four Award: Vital Sign Alert Project • Cleveland Clinic Caregiver Celebrations Tier Four Award: Downtime Communications Project One of the most important values Beth learned at Saint Joseph Academy is compassion and creating a common bond with others. She believes human connection is one of the most important things in life and the key to lasting happiness.

She is proud to work for Cleveland Clinic where she applies these values each day. “Patients First” is Cleveland Clinic’s central mission and goal. As a writer on the communication team, she is always looking for stories demonstrating compassion and human connection. Beth considers it an honor and privilege to share these values and stories across Cleveland Clinic. Since she began at Cleveland Clinic, Beth has moved from a Communication Associate role to a leadership role as Communication Manager. She has won two Tier Four Caregiver Celebration Awards for excellence in communication support for her work on major Internet technology projects for the betterment of patient care.

What Would You Tell An Eighth Grade Girl About Saint Joseph Academy?

ACHIEVEMENTS • • • •

Member of Young Professionals’ Resource Network Member of Women’s Leadership Council Recipient of University of Dayton President’s Scholarship Work selected into the Horvath Juried Art Exhibition at the University of Dayton • Finalist in University of Dayton Women’s History Month Poster competition • Recognized for exemplifying Better Beats Best corporate strategy for excellence in innovative creative product development After graduating from the University of Dayton, Jennifer worked at American Greetings Corporation. She began as an intern and has consistently demonstrated an exceptional work ethic, where she has risen through the ranks of the organization and has become a leader in her career. Jennifer currently works as the Assistant Creative Program Director, directing artwork, sharing knowledge and expertise to clients in Cleveland and around the world, adding to her ability to develop the values of diversity and inclusion. In addition to Jennifer’s full-time career at American Greetings Corporation, she and her husband formed their own design business called BlkDog. With this step, Jennifer has taken on a new leadership path as a small business owner, developing skills in finance, project management and client relationships. She thanks Saint Joseph Academy for the formative experience it has had on her life. Jennifer believes this environment helped formed her character, habits and success.

“Saint Joseph Academy is a place of acceptance that fosters strength and compassion. You will meet people that come from different situations and have had different experiences but you will all have a place. It will help you develop into a smart and capable young woman.”

Jennifer Moloney Taylor ’06

What Would You Tell An Eighth Grade Girl About SJA?

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ALAINA MANNING WAGNER ’06

MARY WALLENHORST ’08

Director of Financial Analytics • The Robert E. Miller Group

Educator • Saint Columbkille School

Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Economics, Rockhurst University • Master of Arts in Mathematics, Saint Louis University

Bachelor of Arts in Middle Childhood Education, Heidelberg University Daughter of Eileen Reynolds Wallenhorst ’70 • Sister of Ellen Wallenhorst ’10 • Granddaughter of Mary Berry Reynolds ’32 †

Sister of Katie Manning ’01 Resident of Kansas City, MO

Resident of Cleveland, OH

ACHIEVEMENTS • Associate in Risk Management • Presented at the National Conference on Undergraduate Research, Montana, 2010 Alaina’s experience at Saint Joseph Academy was a formative time in her life; it instilled a deep faith, strong work ethic and sound educational foundation. It laid the groundwork for Alaina to pursue math and receive a mathematics scholarship at Rockhurst University. Alaina is the Director of Financial Analytics for The Robert E. Miller Group, but in her prior position at Lockton Companies, the largest privately held insurance brokerage firm in the world, she held the position of Assistant Vice President and Senior Risk Analyst. Alaina led the Model Development Teach program in 2015, overseeing the creation and improvement of Lockton’s United States casualty risk management models. At Lockton Companies, Alaina served as a mentor to analysts across the country.

Alaina is involved with the community by volunteering with Junior Achievement USA, which works to building entrepreneurship and financial literacy in children, as well as Catholic Charities, United Way and Cornerstones of Care.

Alaina is involved with Rockhurst University’s program, Mathapaloosa, encouraging high school students to pursue careers in math. Alaina is actively involved in her parish, where she serves as a Eucharistic minister, an altar server and participates in the art and environment ministry.

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ACHIEVEMENTS • Selected for Tianjin Normal University Teacher Exchange • Co-Site Director at St. Augustine Rainbow Camp • Graduated magna cum laude from Heidelberg University, 2012 • Graduate of the Heidelberg University Honors Program, 2012 • Named to the Heidelberg University Honors Society • Recipient of the Dean’s Scholarship, Heidelberg University Mary has always been a unifying influence among her friends and colleagues. She promotes a caring influence and understanding of the world. She serves as the Co-Site Director for St. Augustine Rainbow Camp in Tremont. The camp serves children who come from a variety of socioeconomic backgrounds and have learning, physical and emotional disabilities. Mary works many extra hours to provide an atmosphere where campers have a safe, caring and enjoyable experience. Mary currently teaches fourth and fifth grade students religion, reading and social studies at Saint Columbkille School. She is devoted to her students and exhibits leadership with her colleagues. Mary teaches Parish School of Religion (PSR) classes to students who attend public school. The classes help children nurture their Catholic faith. Mary is passionate about finding innovative approaches that help students who may have learning difficulties so they can achieve their goals and gain confidence in the classroom. Mary’s passion for teaching has taken her to China, where she served as a Teaching Assistant to a Heidelberg University professor, teaching conversational English to Chinese college students.

EILEEN WYZA ’09 Geographic Information System Graduate Assistant • Voinovich School of Leadership and Public Affairs, Ohio University Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science, Westminster College • Master of Science in Environmental Studies, Ohio University • Ph.D. candidate in Biological Sciences, Ohio University Daughter of Margaret McGuire Wyza ’78 Resident of Albany, OH

ACHIEVEMENTS • Currently conducting research on the endangered Fossa species in Madagascar • Recipient of the Trustee’s Scholarship at Westminster College, 2009-2013 • Dean’s List, Westminster College, 2009-2013

SJA 2017 25 UNDER 35 FAVORITE MEMORIES Walk of the Roses Paws for Pride Freshmen Welcome Eucharistic Minister History Classes Singing “The Lord Bless You” at Graduation Mass with the Sisters of the Congregation of St. Joseph Trip to Italy/Mass with the Pope Building Sets for Musicals and Plays Big Sis/Little Sis Program

Eileen’s dedication to being one with creation started at Saint Joseph Academy. From her research for the United States Department of Agriculture on irrigation systems to studying grass species in Texas, to her current work with the endangered Fossa species in Madagascar, Eileen displays perseverance and true leadership in the environmentalism field. She believes in cherishing the world and using her strengths toward a more sustainable environment. Eileen’s necessary research on the Fossa species of Madagascar is so unique, it led her to continue her work in the Ph.D. program at Ohio University. This work is so crucial and pivotal to Eileen that she has made multiple trips to Madagascar to personally tag the Fossa with GPS monitors before their extinction. Her steadfast leadership of this program show her true dedication to positive global change.

Rally Before State Track Meet Lunch with Friends in the Dining Hall Leading Kairos Being on the Basketball Team Leading Mission Trips Theology Class Singing “Walking Down the Road to Canaan” AP Calculus and AP Physics

What Would You Tell An Eighth Grade Girl About Saint Joseph Academy?

“Saint Joseph Academy provided for me a foundation of critical thinking skills, writing skills and work ethic that prepared me for both my undergraduate and graduate degrees. Perhaps even more than that, Saint Joseph Academy instilled in me an empathy and genuine care for the health of our planet and everyone living on it, which guided me toward my current education path in an effort to improve the lives of all people while still being good stewards of the environment.”

Eileen Wyza ’09 15

Sponsored by the Sisters of the Congregation of St. Joseph