Saint Joseph Academy Update - Fall 2010

Sharing a Tradition of Excellence with Alumnae, Parents and Friends • www.sja1890.org • FALL/WINTER 2010

Junior Upper Class Induction Ceremony

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

3430 Rocky River Drive • Cleveland, Ohio 44111 216-251-6788 www.sja1890.org

Update is published by Saint Joseph Academy for alumnae, parents and friends. Contributions to this issue of Update included: Jennie Amodio, Dr. Jim Cantwell, Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis ‘71, Shelly DiCello, Mary Ann Fischer ‘66, Emily Hanson ‘99, Betty Hjort, Fred Kieser, Mel Kupchik, Mickie Matheis, Constance S. Sipple and Jennifer Reeder.

Photography courtesy of Marianne Mangan, John Mulgrew and Woodard Photography.

For more information or questions, please contact Constance S. Sipple, Vice President of Institutional Advancement, at 216.251.6788 or csipple@sja1890.org

M ission 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.

Cover Photo: (l. to r.) Samantha Riley ‘12, Celine Mangan ‘12, Juanita Shealey, CSJ, Madeline Lanning ‘12.

Editor’s note: Sister Juanita, a junior class Prayer and Presence Partner, joins the junior class for the annual Upper Class Induction Ceremony. Prayer and Presence Partners are Sisters who support SJA students, faculty and staff through prayers and attendance at school events. A CSJ for over 50 years, Sister Juanita spoke at this year’s induction ceremony.

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

This is a special year for Saint Joseph Academy, as we celebrate the 120 years since the founding of our school.

This is an impressive milestone for any institution, and we are proud of our rich heritage. Thousands of young women have been educated in the tradition of the Congregation of St. Joseph, our founding and sponsoring order. We are blessed by their commitment to each of us, as we strive to carry on their mission of unioning love in the world.

Each school year, we select a theme that reflects the charism and spirituality of the Congregation of St. Joseph, a theme that links our daily work to that of the Sisters. This year’s theme is “Weave One Heart.” It is a theme rich with symbolism, for when one weaves, many threads are brought together to create something new.

The theme reminds us of the founding Sisters, who taught the women of Le Puy to weave together many threads to create a beautiful piece of lace. The theme of “weave one heart” reminds us of the Sisters’ spirituality to bring all into one, each of us being a single person brought together through our love of God and our “dear neighbor.”

Our students “weave one heart” each day, when they share their lives at SJA, a school where all are welcome. The young women are weaving into the community, too, through service projects that unite our students with neighbors in need. Their efforts include serving meals to the homeless, visiting the elderly, praying for the unborn, and selling bracelets made in Nicaragua that bought bicycles for the impoverished children of that country. The students collected supplies for the troops serving our country overseas, and toys and clothing for children of the West Side Catholic Center. When I recount the stories of our students, as they “weave one heart” with our world, I know we are doing important work, God’s work.

Yes, it is nice to celebrate and reflect on the long history of SJA, but even more important is the future of the school. For 120 years, young women have been prepared at Saint Joseph Academy to make the world a better place. The world is in need of our graduates, now more than ever. Thank you for your belief in our mission of preparing young women “for compassionate leadership and service in a global society.”

Sursum corda! Lift up your hearts!

Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis ’71 President

Excellence in the Education of Women Celebrating

120 YearS OF

The date 10.10.10 occurs on the calendar only once every century, making it memorable around the world. But it represented an equally significant milestone for over 500 people who came together in the West Park neighborhood of Cleveland that particular Sunday.

(l. to r.) Erin Milliken ‘12, Kelsi McCafferty ‘12, Laura Mayer ‘12, Maura McGinty ‘12

On a glorious autumn day, Saint Joseph Academy celebrated the 120th anniversary of its founding with a Mass, tours of the school and campus, and refreshments. Alumnae from as far away as California, Florida and New York reminisced with old friends and classmates and got to meet and mingle with many of the students currently attending SJA. In keeping with the theme of reconnecting, the Grand Reunion Celebration for those alumnae who graduated in years ending in 0 and 5 was held this weekend as well, spanning over 65 years of graduates.

The joyous day began at 10:00 a.m. with brunch for the Grand Reunion alumnae, followed by a noon Mass in the Academy Center to jointly commemorate the Academy’s anniversary and those alumnae celebrating anniversaries.

Rev. Theodore J. Haag, OFM, President

of Padua Franciscan High School in Parma, including a rousing rendition of “You Are presided over the Mass. Patricia O’Toole ’11, Holy” at the end with jubilant participation daughter of Therese and Timothy O’Toole, from the congregation. served as cantor while Sarah Kolick, future “That song brought out their true Jaguar and daughter of Don and Mary SJA spirit,” Patricia Sweeney ’76 Smetana Kolick ’83, played the harp. enthusiastically declared of the students. She Academy President Mary Ann Corriganjoined her mother, sisters, sister-in-law and Davis ’71 welcomed attendees niece – all proud members of the SJA family alongside Nancy Conway, CSJ ’65, – in bringing the gifts to the altar during one of SJA’s Distinguished Alumnae Mass. and head of the Congregation of St. “I hadn’t seen the school in a long time.

Joseph’s Leadership Team, who went Many things have changed, yet some are still on to deliver the opening address. very much the same. I was up on the third “Anniversaries or reunions can floor just walking around, and I felt such have an almost gravitational pull a great feeling of warmth and happiness. to look backwards – to focus with Those halls just do something for you,” nostalgia on the past. While remarked Joni Ropelewski Sichau ’75. our past, and the memories we “It was wonderful to be in the midst carry from that past, are indeed of the community of SJA after living out important and dear to us, what of state for so many years,” said Terri this 120th anniversary of Saint Olschlager Shawhan ’65. “I was immersed Joseph Academy must be about is in a flood of fond memories as I toured the the present and the future,” Sister school and the grounds. For me, SJA truly is Nancy reminded the congregation. sacred ground.”

She reflected on the And if the CSJs and faculty and staff, importance of the school’s legacy. the dedicated alumnae, and the many loyal “In a world and Church so often friends and supporters of the school have marked by division and exclusion, we their way, SJA will remain exactly that for and the Sisters who founded this school decades to come. must ensure that a young woman who comes to SJA discovers here that everyone, and every kind of neighbor, is included in God’s love.

These founding Sisters would also expect that we, the women who have had the privilege of being educated at Saint Joseph Academy 25, 50, or 60 years ago, are spending our lives serving as beacons of this same love in the world,” she said.

A 120-member student choir led the singing Class of 1945: (l. to r.) Regina Mathews Charvat, Frances O’Donnell Wires, Kay Vanderwyst Carey, Joan Foley Westerhold, Marguerite throughout the Mass, Fitzgerald Martin, Carol Volk Simmerly

Saint Joseph Academy FALL/WINTER 2010

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First Impressions

By: James M. Cantwell, Ed.D., Interim Principal

As an educator, I believe learning is a lifelong endeavor – for all of us.

For much of my career, I was an advocate of coeducational schools. I came to Saint Joseph Academy with 40 years of teaching in or leading co-ed schools in the United States and abroad. In most of these schools, the student population was split equally – half girls, half boys.

I defended coeducational schools from multiple perspectives, and my four children attended them.

But time is a teacher.

As I learned more and more about single gender schools – and, in particular, girls’ schools – I began to more fully understand, appreciate and respect the value of single gender classes. Along with my colleagues, I gradually introduced single gender classes into several of my coeducational schools – with impressive results.

However, it was not until I came to SJA that I fully comprehended the power of educating girls in a single gender school.

My first impression was this: for young women seeking a remarkable opportunity in a faith-based school community, Saint Joseph Academy is indeed a jewel in the crown of greater Cleveland.

What I see daily is that our girls can unapologetically be themselves, unencumbered by the potentially distracting nuances of a coeducational environment. Something

very natural and freeing occurs when the spectrum of focus is minimized to academics, extracurricular activities, and friendships.

When accomplished within the confines of Catholic faith and charism – buoyed by a theme of “Weave One Heart” and a mission that affirms “All Are Welcome” – it’s easy to see that to attend SJA is to have an advantage.

In my short time serving as Interim Principal, I have grown to love the culture that permeates every corner of this school – an institution that has done an aweinspiring job of educating girls and shaping compassionate leaders for 120 years.

I witness it daily in the spirit, energy and enthusiasm of the girls and the thoughtfulness and caring ways of the faculty and staff. And I see it repeatedly and devotedly reinforced by countless alumnae, friends and supporters who love their school.

As both a Catholic and an educator – as well as a father to a daughter – the mission of Saint Joseph Academy is one that resonates deeply with me. We have been working hard to be one team to continue the Academy’s proud tradition of guiding young women to achieve academic excellence and a life of compassionate leadership.

Throughout the four years of high school, SJA students discover their voices and gain confidence and self-assuredness in themselves. Each of their unique and special characters is shaped by the daily values, charism and guidance offered by the teachers, staff and administration, as well as the many Sisters of St. Joseph who continue to remain connected to our girls.

I’m grateful to be a part of that connectedness. I’ve already learned so much here.

Dead Man

On the weekend of October 15-17, Saint Joseph Academy presented three riveting performances of the drama Dead Man Walking, a play based on the 1995 Academy Award-nominated film of the same name.

The movie was co-written and directed

Alumna leads SJA board

Saint Joseph Academy is pleased to announce the election of Anne Marie Carey Pecon ’71 to a two-year term as chair of the school’s board of directors. Anne Marie has been an active volunteer and board member for six years. A retired divisional vice president of Thomas & Betts Corporation, a global manufacturing leader, she had a distinguished career in human resources both domestically and internationally. She will lead a board of twenty-four volunteer leaders representing the religious, corporate, professional and local business sectors.

Special thanks to Jim Folk, parent of Kelly ’09 and Erin ’11, for his service as past chair.

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Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE

Sara Masterson as Sister Helen

by Oscar-winning actor Tim Robbins and starred Susan Sarandon as the title character, Helen Prejean, CSJ, whose life changes – and who changes lives – when she begins a ministry to help prisoners on death row.

Walking comes to SJA stage

The cast and crew of Dead Man Walking with Sister Helen Prejean

Sarandon won the Academy Award for Best Actress for her portrayal of Sister Helen.

The rights to the stage production of Dead Man Walking are exclusive to educational institutions – universities, colleges and high schools – until 2014.

This was done for the purpose of raising the awareness level of and stimulating discussion about the death penalty among today’s youth. The project is now in its seventh season and has been performed in over 170 schools nationwide.

The performances at SJA were the first fully produced versions of the play in the Cleveland area.

As part of her ministry, Sister Helen offers compassion and acceptance to these condemned individuals. The power of the play is that it doesn’t preach about the morality of the death penalty. Rather, it allows the audience to draw its own conclusions.

Director Kevin Joseph Kelly acknowledges, “This is a difficult play to watch at times, but it does address the real world. With the right information, future generations have the ability to make the world better. Our students were amazing in their handling of this ’heavy’ topic.”

Sara Masterson ’11 played the role of Sister Helen. “Her story is moving and

powerful,” she said. “She’s this amazing force of love and spirituality. It was an opportunity of a lifetime to play someone like Sister Helen, and to meet her made this an experience I’ll always remember.”

Sister Helen attended dinner with the cast and crew before the opening night

curtain went up. She asked each of the actors what role they were playing and promptly quoted a scripted line from that character. She autographed scripts and programs for each student who participated in the production. And, much to the surprise and delight of all, she attended opening night’s performance – something her ambitious schedule rarely allows.

“I felt like a boulder had been lifted off me when Sister Helen came up to me at intermission, grabbed my arm, and said, ’Kevin, this is fantastic!’” Mr. Kelly marveled.

Sister Helen stayed after the performance for a talk-back – a 20-minute session during which she fielded questions from the audience. The audience also asked questions of the student actors and actresses, who answered questions with poise and maturity beyond their years.

“Sister Helen radiated peace and joy, and her interaction with the audience and the cast seemed quite natural. No topic was off limits,” observed audience member Debbie Nagy Forthofer ’77. “I’ve since read her book Dead Man Walking and continue to contemplate its message.”

“The talk by Sister Helen and the cast after the show was more than inspiring,” added English teacher Mel Kupchik. “I count it among one of the most profound experiences of my life.”

Who is Sister Helen Prejean?

Born in Louisiana to a lawyer and a nurse, Sister Helen was educated at SJA’s sister school, the all-girls St. Joseph’s Academy located in Baton Rouge. She joined the Congregation of St. Joseph in 1957 and spent the first two decades of sisterhood as a teacher, novice mistress, and parish religious educator.

The story of Dead Man Walking centers on Sister Helen’s Sister Helen and Sara Masterson life-changing decision at 40 to dedicate her life to serving the poor. As part of that commitment, she became a pen pal to a death row inmate. The relationship she developed with the man evolved into her becoming his spiritual advisor until his execution. From that experience, she started a ministry for death row prisoners and has become internationally known for her advocacy against the death penalty. Sister Helen turned those experiences into the Pulitzer Prize-nominated book, Dead Man Walking: An Eyewitness Account of the Death Penalty in the United States, which was the basis for the movie and stage production.

Read more about Sister Helen at www.prejean.org.

Saint Joseph Academy FALL/WINTER 2010

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Serving the

School, Community and Church

Students visit Appalachia on mission trip Last summer, a group of nine SJA students accompanied by two teachers set off on a five-day mission trip to West Virginia’s Appalachia region. Their days were packed with activities benefitting the poor families living there.

“The best part of the trip was being with the children and engaging with the residents,” said CORE Ministry teacher and chaperone Renee Kaster ’91.

The group volunteered at a summer reading program for urban children, prepared meals at a hunger center and delivered them to homebound residents, planted vegetables in the community garden, and participated in an arts and crafts program with the mentally challenged.

Sophomore Maggie Bishop commented, “The feeling you get from helping people is priceless. The people of West Virginia were warm and friendly. I’m really glad that SJA strongly promotes service projects.”

Twenty-five seniors, two teachers become Eucharistic Ministers On Wednesday, September 8, twenty-five seniors and two teachers were commissioned as Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist for the Saint Joseph Academy community.

Father Duke from Our Lady of Angels celebrated Mass and imbued attendees with a spirited message of the Eucharist in daily life. Parents and family members of those commissioned were invited to the

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Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE

celebration.

“Being able to serve Communion is such an honor,” said CORE Ministry teacher Grace Gutoskey Ogonek ’80. “It’s very important that we support our students’ commitment to faith. We’re proud of their

spiritual growth and hope that this creates a faith foundation for the rest of their lives.”

The new student ministers are: Lydia Apostoluk, Jacqueline Bova, Clare Brady, Kathryn Burke, Mackenzie Dunn, Julie Dydo, Nicole Gatian, Anna Hanigosky, Dina Hanna, Deirdre Heffernan, Meaghan Heilman, Lindsey Jackowicz, Kathleen Keane, Nicole Keller, Victoria Masella, Moira McGlynn, Elise Poilpre, Morgan Rahman, Emily Rosepal, Alison Roudebush, Janelle Schigel, Katelyn Seroka, Ellen Skonce, Sara Stefancin, and Kelsey VanDenHaute. Teachers: Ms. Renee Kaster and Mrs. Allison Morgan.

Homeless Cardboard Campout Talk about an authentic experience.

To better understand homelessness, CARE Youth Group members decided to be homeless for an entire night on October 14.

They stayed on the school track from 7:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. with no food or drinks – only a blanket, some cardboard boxes, and the clothes on their backs.

Each girl did bring men’s socks or underwear to donate to the West Side Catholic Center. The items were given to guest speaker Ken “The Dog Man.” Homeless for over 20 years (but now employed by the West Side Catholic Center), Ken painted a bitter portrait of homelessness. He encouraged the girls to keep a strong relationship with God and be grateful for all of God’s gifts.

“His story was emotional and honest, and it made me never want to complain about homework or insignificant things ever again,” said Claire Konys ’12.

Added event organizer and CARE Youth Group co-founder, Jackie Bova ’11: “We had to tough it out in the cold and rain. It made me realize that homeless people don’t have a place to retreat to when the weather gets bad. It was humbling to know that our one-night experience is the day-to-day reality for so many.”

The girls and their chaperones soldiered on through the gloomy conditions by singing, praying by candlelight, and comforting each other as their wet, cardboard houses collapsed around them.

College counselor and chaperone Maria Mueller said, “The experience was appropriately humbling and miserable. Afterwards, I thought to myself, I made it through the night, but how would I face the next day knowing that I would have to do it again that night and the next night and the night after that? It was a very eye-opening experience, and each of us left counting our blessings.”

Faculty and staff spend day serving the “dear neighbor” Nearly 100 SJA faculty and staff took the day off from typical tasks on Friday, September 24, to spend the day serving the community as part of the annual faculty and staff retreat.

In keeping with the school-wide “Weave One Heart” theme, groups of 5-20 visited local organizations to “weave into the community” in different ways, including: • Preparing and serving lunch at St. Augustine’s Hunger Center in Tremont

• Organizing donated clothing items at the West Side Catholic Center (photo above) • Preparing bags for upcoming events at The City Mission • Playing games and chatting with the residents at Ennis House • Preparing and serving lunch at Herman House, a homeless shelter for men • Visiting with the terminally ill at Malachi House • Visiting with the CSJ Sisters at Regina Health Center in Richfield The experiences were moving and heartfelt for the faculty and staff, and the blessings felt were abundant. There was some time dedicated afterwards to prayer and reflection. There was also a pervasive sense of feeling humbled by helping the “dear neighbor.” What a gift to be able to learn and grow in faith and help the community while serving SJA!

Students participate in Notre Dame Vision Last summer, groups of SJA students traveled to the University of Notre Dame in Indiana to join high school students from across the nation to ask important questions about life, faith, their own gifts, and the ways in which we are each called to be the change we want to see in the world.

Thanks to an anonymous benefactor, SJA has been able to send students to participate in Notre Dame Vision for the past two years.

Notre Dame Vision is a series of five-day conferences that include dynamic large group experiences, reflective small group time, profound

liturgies, and excellent music. Speakers from all across the country break open important themes throughout the week and help participants to relate them to their own lives.

“At one time or another, everyone questions who they are and where they are going in life,” stated Academy President Mary Ann CorriganDavis ’71. “We are blessed to have a special benefactor who supports our efforts here at SJA in guiding our young women on this spiritual journey.”

Saint Joseph Academy FALL/WINTER 2010

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Fall Field Trips

Papermaking at the Morgan

This fall, Visual and Performing Arts Chair Shelly DiCello and art teacher Sydney Kalnay took 45 students from three visual arts classes to the Morgan Art of Papermaking Conservatory & Educational Foundation.

Opened in 2008 and located in a former factory in Cleveland, this non-profit art center is dedicated to the preservation of handmade papermaking and the art of the book. Its mission is to serve as a professional paper mill, book arts center, artist residency program, gallery and teaching museum for both students and professionals.

Our students learned how to make paper from cotton linter pulp using tools such as deckles and molds. They embedded collages, printed text and ’found’ paper (e.g. old cardboard, receipts, used architectural

Bodies: The Exhibition

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Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE

paper and notebook paper) into handmade paper using letterpress printing, a centuriesold relief printmaking technique where a visible impression is created on the paper.

Words and phrases the students embedded included Weave One Heart, Diversity, Sursum Corda, Compassion, One, Faith, Kairos, Equality and SJA Jaguars. Imagery of hands – taken of the SJA community by the Digital Photography students – was also woven within the fibers of the handmade paper. The sheets of paper were then stitched together to make one large, whimsical piece representing the ideas of community, family, place and collaboration.

Titled Re: Weave One Heart, this threedimensional celebratory work of art will soon be seen cascading down the walls of SJA.

Students from Honors Anatomy and Physiology visited “Bodies: The Exhibition” on September 21. The museum-quality exhibition featured actual dissected and preserved human bodies. Anatomy teacher Fred Kieser chaperoned the 47 students who attended.

The 200 bodies on display showcased the intricate nature of the human form – from how each internal system functions to the fascinating workings of the body’s merchanical structure – the muscles, joints and bones – to the ravaging effects of disease

A contemporary take on Othello Accompanied by teachers Mel Kupchik and Michelle Kelly-Flanagan, 47 AP English students enjoyed a contemporary staging of Shakespeare’s Othello at the Hanna Theatre in Playhouse Square on October 20.

The students had read and discussed this famous play – arguably one of the greatest dramas ever written – but were impressed with Great Lakes Theater Festival’s exceptionally creative production which the Wall Street Journal described as a

“…blood-and-thunder Othello that roars down the track at several hundred miles an hour… and lacks nothing in the way of thrills and chills.”

The modern-day costumes, the powerful casting, and the action movie music that kicked up in all the right places were just some of the elements that captivated students.

“The military uniforms were clearly from the modern time, and, therefore, made the audience believe that the events of the play were happening in today’s world,” Katie Burke ’12 wrote in her post-show critique.

Added Erica Papcum ’12: “The lighting was flawless and added drama and movement to scenes that might be static otherwise. I think that it was unanimous in our class that Iago was the most intense character. The actor found a new level to the character and brought him to life in a way that was personal and drew you in.”

and unhealthy lifestyle choices.

“BODIES: The Exhibition” provided a visually stunning opportunity to learn about human anatomy, health and biology in a way that textbooks could never replicate.

The students rose to the occasion, impressing the exhibit’s docents with a profound depth of curiosity and intelligence. And the students came away with a new perspective – and a newfound respect – for how complex but special the human body is.

Students receive National Merit Scholarship recognition The 56th annual National Merit Scholarship Program has named seniors Katie Haller and Abigail Kayser as Semifinalists and Jackie Bova as a Commended Student. These academically talented students were chosen based on their performance on the PSAT taken last fall.

Approximately 16,000 semifinalists will compete in the spring for 8,400 National Merit Scholarships worth more than $36 million. The nationwide pool of semifinalists represents less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors.

Katie lives in Strongsville and is a graduate of Incarnate Word Academy. She is involved

Katie Haller Abigail Kayser

in SADD, Spanish Club, Model UN, Star (Engineering) Club, Chinese Club, Tutor Club, Ambassadors, Newspaper Club, Math Club, Dance Team, and Paws Mentoring.

She is in the midst of her college search. Her sister Kelly is a sophomore at SJA. Abigail lives in Parma and is a graduate of Bethany Lutheran. She is an active member of Ski Club, Knit Club, Film Buffs, Model UN, Ambassadors, Announcement Crew, Star Club, French Club, Tutor

Jackie Bova

Group, and PAWS Mentoring. She has applied to several schools, and has already been accepted at the University of Chicago.

Jackie lives in Avon and is a graduate of St. Mary’s. She is captain of the soccer team, president of Student Council, and a student ambassador. Jackie co-founded the CARE Youth Ministry Group at SJA. She is interested in a career in medical research.

Congratulations, Katie, Abigail and Jackie, on your outstanding achievement!

Welcome, Class of 2014!

Faculty, administration and students were blessed with a warm summer day as they proceeded down Rocky River Drive to Our Lady of Angels Church to welcome 175 new freshmen from over fifty different schools to Saint Joseph Academy. The Class of 2014 celebrated Mass together with their new classmates, teachers and staff, and their contagious energy and enthusiasm filled the church.

Included in the group of incoming freshmen were thirty-seven Legacy students – girls with either a mother or grandmother (or both) who also attended SJA or Nazareth Academy.

We extend a warm welcome to all our new students, especially German exchange student Inga Cyrankiewicz and ten transfer students from Regina High School. We’re happy to have you with us, and we’re grateful that your families have entrusted SJA to continue our proud tradition of educating girls to become “a better me.”

of Theresa Waltos Novotny ’85; Emmy Ernst, daughter of Donna Corrigan Ernst ’80; Alexandra Eucker, daughter of Klara Megay Eucker ’84; Emily Hirzel, daughter of Lisa Forrester Hirzel ’89 and granddaughter of Rosemarie Mazzella Forrester ’65 and Mary Eleen Ross Hirzel ’63; Gabrielle Hughes, daughter of Caroline Galambos Hughes ’83; Brooke Kahl, daughter of JoAnn Aerni Kahl ’82 and granddaughter of Margaret Lynch Kahl ’58 and †Marilyn Westfall Aerni ’50; Carolyn Kraus, daughter of Mary Ellen Prunty Kraus ’75; Courtney Kuntz, daughter of Mary J. Lavelle Kuntz ’88; Maureen Loftus, daughter of Maureen Sweeney Loftus ’80 and granddaughter of Bride Ann Gallagher Sweeney ’50; Fiona Mangan, daughter of Eileen Mangan-Stull ’74 and granddaughter of †Maryclare McManamon Mangan ’49; Corinne Martin, granddaughter of Marguerite Fitzgerald Martin ’45; Ciara McGlynn, daughter of Rose Marie Forrest McGlynn ’76; Rachel McGuire, granddaughter of †Jeanne Price McGuire ’66; Sarah McMahon, granddaughter of †Loretta

Fitzgerald McMahon ’46; Misty Mencin, daughter of Michele Mencin ’87; Caroline Mills, daughter of Deborah Ghazoul-Mills ’79; Kelsey O’Donnell, daughter of Megan Hurley O’Donnell N’72; Alexis Ohmer, daughter of Mary Irvin ’91; Jennifer Polito, daughter of LuAnn Aerni Polito ’82 and granddaughter of †Marilyn Westfall Aerni ’50; Grace Powers, daughter of Maureen Smith Powers ’83 and granddaughter of Margaret Ames Smith ’49; Sandra Prodan, granddaughter of Patricia Hansen Seggie ’50; Emily Rouse, daughter of Colleen Lang Rouse ’81; Jessica Runyon, daughter of Joanne Tobia Runyon ’83; Hannah Smith, granddaughter of Margaret Ames Smith ’49; Erin Stefancin, daughter of Ann Fox Stefancin ’80; Moira Sweeney, daughter of Suzanne Smith Sweeney ’85; Samantha Sweeney, daughter of Katherine Dempsey Sweeney ’81 and granddaughter of Bride Ann Gallagher Sweeney ’50; Erica Uhler, daughter of Kathleen Wilk Uhler N’79; Katrina Wrabel, daughter of Caroline Smerillo Wrabel ’79; and Marley Yarian, daughter of Kristine Soltis Yarian ’94.

Kathleen Basalla, daughter of Brenda Smith Basalla ’80; Caroline Becker and her sister Therese who joined SJA’s junior class, granddaughters of Sheila Allen Becker ’54; Margaret Biehl, daughter of Eileen Baugh Biehl ’75; Meghan Bremmer, daughter of Colleen Fahey Bremmer N’80 and granddaughter of Joan Sabol McGinty ’55; Elizabeth Charvat, granddaughter of Regina Mathews Charvat ’45; Alison DeCrane, granddaughter of †Moira O’Connell Malady ’48; Rose Dolan, granddaughter of †Regina Rochford Carey ’46; Melissa Drapac-Novotny, daughter

Saint Joseph Academy FALL/WINTER 2010

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FALL

Sports Varsity Volleyball – The volleyball program’s overall success and winning record of 14-9 was a true team effort. The Jaguars had four matches that went to five sets, including one against Magnificat. Eight teams on the schedule were ranked in the state of Ohio, and four out of eight were ranked in the top ten in their division. Facing such successful competitors this season helped the Jags strengthen the volleyball program and elevate both the standards and expectations of the team. It comes as no surprise that several players received awards for their performances: Ashley Butler ’11 (photo, right) - All-State Honorable Mention and First Team All-District; Rachel Caja ’11 - First Team All-District Honors; and Allie Zubkowicz ’12 - District II Honorable Mention.

JV Volleyball – 14-8 Freshmen Volleyball – 17-5

Varsity Tennis – The Jaguars showed marked improvement during the 2010 season by doubling their win total.

This year the program was blessed with a great deal of depth in the lineup, resulting in twelve letter winners. Elizabeth Wagner ’12, Claire Violand ’13 (photo, left), Inga Cyrankiewicz ’12, an exchange student from Germany, Moira McGlynn ’11, Kelly O’Dougherty ’11, Callie Powers ’12, Ellen Saracina ’13, Brooke Kahl ’14, Stephanie Zbin ’11, Healey Pembridge ’12, Rachael Paponetti ’12, and Missy Drapac-Novotny ’14 all contributed to the varsity squad throughout the year. Leading the way in wins were singles players Inga Cyrankiewicz and Claire Violand.

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Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE

Varsity Soccer – Setting a school record of 11-1-4 this season, the varsity soccer team scored forty-eight goals and only allowed seventeen goals (a new school record). Sophomore Nicole Mikolcic (photo, above) scored twenty-six regular season goals, beating her 2009 school record of twenty-three. Nicki was the third leading scorer in the OHSAA Division I girls soccer record books. Jackie Bova ’11 tied her school record of eleven assists, and Samantha Zogheib ’11 recorded four shutouts in goal. Comparing the last three seasons to the previous three seasons, the team goal differential (goals scored versus goals allowed) has improved by 167 goals.

Seniors Jackie Bova, Allison Koscianski, Farrell O’Malley, Kaitlyn Plogger, Alison Roudebush, Katelyn Seroka, Sara Stefancin and Samantha Zogheib led the way in improving SJA’s caliber of play. Lastly, four-year letter winner and team captain, Jackie Bova, was selected to play on the Greater Cleveland Soccer Coaches Senior All-Star Team. Coach David Leigh was also selected by the GCSCA to coach the All-Stars. JV Soccer Purple – 9-5 JV Soccer Gold – 6-4

Our varsity players were competitive during every match, and their efforts were evident in their participation in the Sectional Tournament. All seven Jaguars advanced to the second round of the tournament, and five advanced to the third round. Junior #1 singles player Elizabeth Wagner won all three of her matches on day one of sectionals. She returned to compete in the qualifying match for the District Tournament, but was beaten by the eventual sectional champion.

Varsity – 6-13 JV Tennis – 10-5

Cross Country – It was another great season for the Cross Country team. It was the largest team thus far, with 51 girls participating in competitions. While no team titles were earned, the Jags finished near the top during almost every meet.

Significant improvement over last year was evident not just by the team, but by individuals as well. Improvement began with senior captain Erin Gaffney ’11, who had a breakout season! Erin knocked over 30 seconds off her best time and finished her career as number sixteen in the Cross Country record books. Not to be outdone, Mary Kate Chambers ’12 knocked well over a minute off her best time and sits at number twenty-one in the SJA record books.

The depth of the program is evidenced by the fact that over fifteen runners worked their way onto the varsity squad during the season, and only one runner was a senior. Freshmen included: Rachel McGuire, who holds the eighth highest freshman time, Alesha Vovk, Maddie Zimmerman, and Molly Moore. Alesha, Maddie, and Molly all started a trend that is a reliable predictor that they will letter all four years at SJA. They did so in part by hitting the standard (l. to r.) Rose Urankar ‘12, Mary Kate Chambers ‘12, Celine Mangan ‘12, Jessica Sirchen ‘12, Erin Gaffney of excellence in their first ‘11, Rachel McGuire ‘14, Helen Steve ‘13 season. Both Rose Urankar ’12 and Bridget Egan ’13 (new runners to the SJA program from Regina) improved immensely and ran for the varsity team, and so did new SJA runners, sophomore Helen Steve and juniors Rachel Schwind and Kayley Dunn.

Couple these success stories with solid performances by junior veterans Celine Mangan, Grace Harter, Sam Riley, Maggie Boyer and Jessica Sirchen, add in the outstanding performances by sophomores Mel Ward, Emily Bauer, Jill and Jessica Bresnahan – and it becomes apparent that SJA has plenty of talent to go around.

On another positive note, the JV team dominated at every meet they attended except for the first one.

Putting it in perspective, this year’s 20th runner had the same time as last year’s 10th runner! A record twenty-two runners met the varsity lettering standard that just nine athletes earned last year. Much of the credit goes to a tremendous cultural and attitudinal shift which hopefully will carry over to next fall.

Golf – Like fall itself, the 2010 golf season was one of change. The changes to some may have been overwhelming, and to others they likely were a breath of fresh air.

Despite the change, each golfer has made incredible improvements to her full swing, short game, and mental approach. This is

Patricia Kay ’13

a direct reflection of the team’s persistence and dedication – qualities that make our coaches extremely proud. Even though this progress didn’t translate into more wins for the Jags, they were truly a better team in the end. All season long the girls were asked to be accountable, learn new concepts, and work harder than ever before. They embraced those challenges and laid the foundation for what could very well be a successful 2011 season.

Senior Rachel Caja signs for volleyball scholarship Congratulations to Rachel Caja ’11, who was awarded a volleyball scholarship to Wheeling Jesuit University in West Virginia.

The Caja family has a long-standing history with Saint Joseph Academy. Parents Richard and Loretta of Lakewood, Ohio, also have SJA graduates Ashley ’03 and Alison ’09, as well as current student Mary Katherine ’13.

Rachel plans to study Education and Theology with hopes of becoming a Theology teacher following graduation.

In response to signing with Wheeling Jesuit, Rachel said, “I love my coaches there, and I really like how close the team is with each other. I look forward to being a part of campus life and studying Theology since I’ve always wanted to be a teacher.”

Athletic Director Jennie Amodio added, “We are very excited that we have yet another outstanding athlete competing at the collegiate level. I am confident that Rachel will do great things at Wheeling Jesuit.”

Saint Joseph Academy FALL/WINTER 2010

11

Ruth Rowe Holden ’99 awarded Shakespeare fellowship

The Cleveland Branch of The EnglishSpeaking Union (ESU) has appointed Ruth Rowe Holden ’99, CORE Ministry teacher at Saint Joseph Academy, as a British Universities Summer School (BUSS) scholar for 2011. As a result of this appointment, Mrs. Holden will travel to England this summer to attend the 3-week program, “Teaching Shakespeare in Performance,” at the Globe Theatre in London. Fewer than 25 teachers from the entire United States are admitted to this elite program each year.

Headquartered in New York and with branches throughout the world, the ESU’s mission is to provide meaningful cultural and educational programs that enrich the lives of high school and college students nationwide and the greater international community of those teaching, learning and

speaking the English language.

The Cleveland Branch of the ESU sends one high school teacher each year to England to learn techniques for teaching Shakespeare to their students. The BUSS scholarship competition is open to Greater Cleveland high school teachers who are coaching their students in the annual Cleveland Branch ESU Regional Shakespeare Competition.

Mrs. Holden, alongside fellow English teacher Mel Kupchik, has coached SJA students in the Shakespeare Competition for five years. Patricia O’Toole ’11, one of her students, was the citywide runner-up in the 2010 competition.

Mrs. Holden hopes to start a middleschool summer camp, “Summers with Shakespeare,” at Saint Joseph Academy in 2012.

Farewell to athletic trainer Kristin Archual In November, Saint Joseph Academy and its student athletes said goodbye to Kristin Archual, the school’s athletic trainer for the last 15 years. She is taking a break to spend more time with her young family.

As a certified athletic trainer, Kristin took care of injuries — to SJA athletes and those of visiting teams — during competitions. She also played a big part in rehabbing injuries and helped coaches build workout programs for their athletes.

“Kristin was very well respected by the coaches and student athletes at SJA,” said Athletic Director Jennie Amodio. “She will be missed.”

Kristin commented that her time at SJA had been rewarding and fulfilling both personally and professionally. In a farewell note to students and staff, she stated, “I will always cherish the memories and friendships that I acquired with the faculty, staff, coaches, student athletes and their parents. Through the years, I feel that the mission and vision of SJA have been instilled in me to develop into the woman that I am today!

In turn, I hope to pass this empowerment onto my daughter. Best wishes to all—and GO JAGS!”

Grandparents Day at Saint Joseph Academy

(l. to r.) Callie Powers ‘12, Beth Powers, Grace Powers ‘14, Bryan Powers. Callie and Grace are also the granddaughters of Maggie Ames Smith ‘49 and Bob Smith.

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Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE

On Monday, November 1, nearly 150 grandparents joined their granddaughters for the fourth annual Grandparents Day luncheon. Coming from throughout Ohio and from as far away as New York, Michigan and Texas, grandparents spent the day touring the school, having lunch and attending Mass with their granddaughters.

They also heard from the Choral Ensemble and Chinese II students and visited the Paw Prints bookstore.

Interim Principal Dr. Jim Cantwell commented, “It was touching to see how proud these grandparents are of their granddaughters. The girls were beaming with joy, too.”

Sophomore connects with her

Chinese heritage

This past July, Liann Winship ’13 had a unique opportunity to give back to a place that had been important to her very early in life. It took 11,000 miles and 14 years to finally do it, but her parents, Bill and Mary McFadian Winship ’71, were determined to make it happen for their daughter.

Liann and Mary spent two weeks in China on a heritage tour of Liann’s birth country. The Winships adopted Liann in 1996 from Nanning, China, when she was just one year old.

Three other families – from Mentor and Cincinnati, Ohio, and Portland, Oregon – accompanied the Winships on the trip. The four families are part of a group of eleven who adopted children from the Mother’s Love Orphanage at the same time that year.

Dubbed “The Nanning 11,” the families have kept in touch over the years through visits, vacations, reunions, Facebook and email. All the families promised that they Liann and Mary McFadian Winship ‘71 at the Great Wall of China would return to China one day with their adopted daughters. Four were able to make with photos of the girls as babies. As a result was especially memorable. Its website states this inaugural trip. The group decided it of taking Mandarin Chinese at SJA, Liann that the orphanage has cared for over 1,400 was at an ideal stage in the girls’ lives since children since 1995. In addition to arranging was able to thank the nannies who cared for summer jobs, driving and boyfriends were her as an infant in her native tongue. “That overseas adoptions, the facility also cares for not yet a distraction. children who are HIV-positive and who have was a motivating factor for me in taking the “My own Irish heritage was important course,” said Liann, who has gone on to take special needs. to me,” explained Mary. “As a Mandarin Chinese II. She is also a member Liann and the other girls teenager, I was able to go of the Chinese Club. painted suncatchers with to Ireland to visit my And in a beautiful display of helping the kids, baked and grandparents. I thought decorated cookies, blew the “dear neighbor,” due to a year’s worth it was important for bubbles and danced. of fundraising efforts, the girls were able Liann to have a chance During the visit, to present the orphanage with a check for to get in touch with they were able to $1,350 (the equivalent of $10,000 in buying her own roots.” look through their power in China) to purchase a sewing The group visited files, which included machine, washing machine and a computer. a number of historical progress reports and After completing the trip, the families sites, including the baby photos. The file felt inspired to share their experience with Forbidden City, the described how Liann others. At least two of the girls (including Great Wall, the Museum had been brought to Liann) were profiled in local newspapers. of Terracotta Warriors The Winships also wrote to the adoption the orphanage after being and Horses, and the Panda agency to encourage new adoptive families abandoned at a local hospital Research Center. The girls Making a new friend at to maintain close ties with others in their – an all-too-common fate for also took calligraphy classes, the Panda Research Center travel group and to consider a heritage tour. female infants due to China’s made Chinese kites, tried “I’ve always known I was from China, strict one-child-per-family law. landscape painting, and took and I’m so thankful to my mom and dad Many of the workers at Mother’s Love in some shopping. According to Liann, her favorite part of the trip was getting to hold a actually remembered the four girls and were for sending me on this trip,” Liann said. “It really opened my eyes to the opportunities able to tell their families a bit about each baby panda.

I’ve been given by being adopted.” one. The workers were given scrapbooks The visit to Mother’s Love Orphanage Saint Joseph Academy FALL/WINTER 2010

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Alumnae Spo tl i ght :

In the name of Natalie Leek-Nelson ‘85

Eileen Murray ‘67

Moments when we realize we truly belong somewhere are as tangible as they are empowering. Eileen Murray has been blessed to have experienced that feeling not once, but twice.

The first time was in high school. She recalls feeling early on at Saint Joseph Academy that she was somewhere very special. “I remember freshman year, standing on the steps outside for a formal assembly. We were facing the Motherhouse and singing the Alma Mater. It gave me a sense of being a part of something much bigger than myself,” she says.

Eileen affectionately remembers the many friendships, Sisters and classes. She calls Miss Patricia Kotnik, who taught biology, “far and away, the best teacher” she ever had, crediting her with making biology exciting, understandable and well worth studying. Miss Kotnik was also largely responsible for Eileen’s decision to major in biology in college with the idea of going to medical school.

But by her senior year at Ursuline College, Eileen elected to pursue a career in counseling.

She did marital, family and individual counseling and some teaching for the next 17 years. Then she began to experience burn-out and knew she needed to try something very different. She went on to do medical billing and accounts receivable for three years but realized working in a for-profit corporation didn’t align with her values.

“It’s not who I believe myself to be,” she explains. “What matters is how we treat one another, and what we do for those who don’t have what we have.”

Serving others is very important to Eileen’s family and was reinforced by the CSJs during her time at SJA. So when a friend talked to her about the executive director position at Womankind, Eileen’s interest was piqued.

Founded in 1975, Womankind is a free prenatal clinic, primarily staffed by volunteers, that offers confidential, professional and comprehensive care 14

Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE

for the medical and emotional needs of women who are pregnant or think they might be.

Eileen was eventually offered the position at Womankind. That was 17 years ago.

Although in the beginning she says she had no idea what she was doing and felt in over her head, the sense of belonging eventually came – just like it had in high school.

Womankind’s philosophy is entirely consistent with the values and teaching of the Catholic Church. The organization provides a loving, non-judgmental alternative to abortion. In fact, many Catholic parishes support an ongoing fundraiser that involves distributing baby bottles that people are encouraged to fill with spare change to support the work of the organization.

Womankind has raised a lot of money and a huge amount of awareness with this grassroots approach. And Catholic churches are not the only ones to have embraced it – churches of other faiths, schools (including Saint Joseph Academy), businesses, and even smaller groups like card clubs have participated.

Being at the helm of Womankind has been a huge responsibility for Eileen, but she is inspired each day by the devoted staff and volunteers. Just watching the difference love and compassion can make in people’s lives is a daily reminder that she’s right where she belongs.

Sometimes a change in altitude provides a better perspective.

Natalie Leek-Nelson distinctly remembers being on a red-eye with a group of computer programmers a decade ago. Working in e-commerce for a technology company at the time, she noticed her colleagues’ conversation focused solely on Wall Street numbers – not on serving the customer.

“It crystallized for me right there,” she recalls. “We weren’t changing anyone’s life or focused on making a difference.”

Soon afterwards, Natalie left the corporate sector and started her own business offering project management, marketing, and development consulting services to corporate and non-profit clients in Greater Cleveland.

One of her clients was Providence House, a non-profit, licensed crisis nursery started in 1981 by Hope Greener, CSJ. In 2001 Natalie accepted the position of president and chief executive officer of

Patricia Adams, CSJ ‘60 The death of her dad inspired a new journey in the life of Sister Pat Adams.

She was blessed to have had the chance to be with her father when he passed away in 1995. That experience made her realize more clearly the importance of another person helping in the transition from this life into the next. “I felt like a mid-wife and knew I was on ‘holy ground,’” she recalls.

As the priest was praying the prayers of the dying, she knew her dad was reunited with her mom, brother, sister, and all those who had experienced ‘new life.’

And so Sister Pat began a new life as well.

She left Church of the Resurrection, a 1,200-family parish in Solon, and became a resident-in-training at The Cleveland Clinic Foundation. Her goal was to work with the dying as a hospice chaplain.

She received her certification in 1998 and soon after began her ministry with New Life Hospice.

College Acceptances Class of 2009

service Providence House – a homecoming of sorts.

Between her education at Saint Joseph Academy and a seven-year stint after college as SJA’s admissions/public relations director, Natalie had long embraced the servicedriven philosophy of the CSJs. Under Natalie’s leadership – and with Sister Hope’s blessing – Providence House has undergone a transformation from a facility that met the immediate needs of infants and children facing abuse or neglect to a forwardthinking foundation that thinks, provides and plans long-term for keeping at-risk children and fragile families intact and on track.

But the core of the organization has remained the same: the belief in unconditional love.

“Sister Hope taught us to imagine every child as a reservoir that had been emptied and needed to be filled up again – with hope and love and hugs and kisses,” Natalie says.

“That’s the most important thing we give.”

Because children do remember.

Letters regularly arrive from parents and children who came to Providence House years before, gratefully recalling the role it had played at a difficult time. Natalie recalls one Christmas when a young man dropped off a big toy fire truck with a bow. He said he’d lived at Providence House when he was five, and he wanted the truck to be given to a child who had to be there for the holidays.

Natalie finds special satisfaction in giving women a voice and control over their lives and those of their children. She credits her empowered, enlightened mother for this, as well as the CSJs and teachers at SJA who instilled in her the unlimited possibilities of what she could do and be in life.

She vividly remembers the spirit of unity at SJA when the whole school community came together. She recalls how easily everyone connected with one another. She brings that same fervor for connectedness to the many boards and advisory committees she serves on.

“I’m a strong believer in the more you

give, the more you gain,” she says.

Natalie enjoys spending time with her family, working in her art studio, reading, gardening and renovating her home. She lives in Rocky River with her husband, Steve Nelson, and their two sons – Connor, 8, and Corey 5.

She assists the dying in reflecting on their lives and thanking God for all that has been. She considers herself richly fortunate to journey with people during their final days. “I have been told that I have touched the hearts of dying people,” she marvels. Yet she is the one who feels grateful.

She is also grateful for the assistance she gets from her congregation. Hope Greener, CSJ and founder of Providence House, makes prayer shawls. And lap afghans are provided by River’s Edge Women’s Outreach Center, a ministry of the Congregation of St. Joseph that supports women who have experienced homelessness and are in transition and in need of support.

Sister Pat entered the Congregation of St. Joseph in 1960 and will be celebrating her 50th anniversary in June of 2011. After graduating from St. John College in 1965 with a bachelor of science in education, she taught first and second grade at St. Francis

De Sales in Akron for six years. After receiving her master’s degree in administration, she served eleven years as principal at Sts. Joseph and John School in Strongsville, then at St. Mary School in Berea.

For the next 15 years she enjoyed fulfilling work as a member of a pastoral team at Church of the Resurrection. She worked closely with the parish founder, Fr. Louis Trivison, who taught her the meaning of being present, caring, accepting and compassionate to all people. “The spirit of God’s love for all people came alive in me during those days and continues into my present ministry,” she says.

Her pastoral work, combined with her years of teaching and school administration, enriched Sister Pat’s life in many ways and led her to the place where God meant for her to be – in hospice ministry. She credits her years in hospice as having taught her how to live and having given her a greater appreciation of the wisdom of the dying and

the transformation that takes place.

“I never thought I would have anything to do with sickness or death,” she admits.

“But I believe that I am following a call beyond my understanding.”

G rand R eunion Grand Reunion 2010 was celebrated October 8 – 10, a magnificent autumn weekend, by more than 280 alumnae 1945 from the SJA classes ending in 0 or 5.

After a successful debut last year, a special Friday evening get-together for younger alums – from the classes of 1995, 2000, and 2005 – took place at SJA. These young women enjoyed re-connecting with classmates and hearing about the exciting new programs at SJA today. The highlight was having the opportunity to walk through the halls of the Academy and visit classrooms that held special memories for them.

On Saturday evening, more than 180 alums from all of the reunion classes met at The Cleveland Yachting Club for a formal dinner and the opportunity to visit with classmates, friends and former teachers. Among the attendees were 42 women who traveled from 18 different states to celebrate an anniversary of their graduation. The energy was high as classmates excitedly recognized each other – especially for the Class of 1960, which had an exceptionally high turnout as they celebrated 50 years since graduation!

On Sunday morning, October 10, 85 members of the classes of 1940, 1945, 1950, 1955, and 1960 gathered at SJA for a delightful brunch before joining the hundreds of people who came to celebrate the 120th anniversary of Saint Joseph Academy at Mass and an Open House. (See story on p. 3) “From the informal gatherings on Friday evening to the Mass on Sunday, all who attended the Grand Reunion enjoyed it,” remarked Mary Haas McGraw ’75. “A number of faculty attended the dinner, so it was nice to see and talk with the women who shaped all of us.”

The SJA classes ending in 1 or 6 should mark their calendars now for the 2011 Grand Reunion weekend to be held October 7 – 9, 2011.

1950

1940

1955

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Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE

2010

1965

1970

1975

1980

1995

1985

1990

1960

2005

2000

Saint Joseph Academy FALL/WINTER 2010

17

Alumnae News

2010 Golf Outing raises $16,000 to aid students The Sixteenth Annual Alumnae Golf Outing took place on Saturday, August 7, at Mallard Creek Golf Course in Columbia Station. Over 120 participants enjoyed a beautiful day on the links. The fun included raffles, contests, and three delicious meals.

A net profit of over $16,000 was raised to support the students of SJA! Special thanks go to Bishop Roger Gries, OSB and Sr. Barbara Jean Sever, OSU ’64 for being good sports in challenging participants to outdrive them on two contest holes.

Much gratitude goes to all of those who worked on this event or participated in any way – especially committee chair Rosanne Tinnirello Kelley ’76 along with committee members Denise Tinnirello Chomoa ’78, Jane Cochran ’74, Eileen Murray Dooley T’43, Beth Durkin ’78, Michele Ehrbar ’72, Debbie Nagy Forthofer ’77, Carol Wasserbauer Milligan ’59, Mary Ellen Lanning Rogers ’77, Pat Schulte Singleton ’77, Nancy Sweeney ’48, and Dody Winkler ’75.

We were once again fortunate to receive underwriting for this event!

Sincere appreciation goes to the following people and companies who were underwriters or who sponsored this year’s outing: (l. to r.) Hannah Millar ‘12, Maddie Schoenherr ‘12, Bruce Roberts, Bishop Roger Gries

2010 Golf Outing Underwriters And Sponsors LUNCH UNDERWRITERS: Fairview Hospital Avalon Foodservice, Inc.

BREAKFAST UNDERWRITERS: John Carroll University Deloitte The Alpha Group Agency BEVERAGE UNDERWRITERS: Gilbane Building Company Osborn Engineering N. S. Charney & Associates, Nancy Slominsky Charney ’77

SPONSORS: Judge Colleen Conway Cooney & Mr. John G. Cooney Telefast Industries (Giveaway Sponsor) Jeff & Anne Marie Pecon ’71 Lake Erie Graphics (Printing Sponsor) Edible Arrangements Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis ’71 Charles P. Canepa, D.D.S., M. S. SJA Summer Staff SJA/NAZ/STA Alumnae Board Merrill Lynch, Josalyn Murray ’00 Wiemels-Hiros Plumbing The Draves Family Ebner & Rose Orthopedics Shurtape Brands, LLC

Congressman Dennis Kucinich Mike Mural Building Contractors West Park Dental Norris Brothers Co., Inc. Walter Martens & Sons Funeral Home Judge John J. Donnelly Dr. Casey O’Conor-Orthodontist SJA Parent Athletic Booster Club Dr. Debbie Ghazoul-Mills ’79 Brennan’s Catering & Banquet Center Conrad’s Tire Express & Total Car Care Cleveland Indians Congregation of Saint Joseph B. Durkin Family Lakewood Furnace Company Kamm’s Corners Development Corp.

Frantz Ward LLP Chambers Funeral Homes McGraw & McGraw Co LPA, Mary Haas McGraw ’75 Linda Kane ’75 Printing Partners Councilman Martin J. Sweeney & Councilman Martin J. Keane Seeley, Savidge, Ebert & Gourash Co., LPA Kohlmyer Sports The Shamrock Companies Giffen & Kaminski, LLC Drs. Robert, Christopher, Jill Harter, Marilyn Boll Harter ’50, Grace Harter ’12 Lakeside Supply Stripmatic Products, Inc.

SJA creates Athletic Hall of Fame – Go Jaguars!

As we reflect on the school’s accomplishments during its 120th anniversary year, Saint Joseph Academy is pleased to announce the creation of the Athletic Hall of Fame to honor 30 years of outstanding sports-related successes and those individuals associated with SJA’s varsity programming.

The induction ceremony for the first class of honorees will take place in the spring of 2011, with this special event running biannually opposite the Distinguished Alumnae Awards ceremony.

The Athletic Hall of Fame has been created to recognize the accomplishments of the inductees for their contributions to the fine traditions of Saint Joseph Academy athletics and to preserve their history.

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Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE

Nominees must exemplify the highest standards of sportsmanship, ethical conduct, moral character, and have enhanced the overall pride and tradition that coincides with being an SJA student athlete.

All candidates must carry the endorsement of their peers and will be judged on their significant and/or long term contribution to interscholastic athletics and activities. While many have served at Saint Joseph Academy, the accomplishments of the nominees must be worthy of high recognition to be considered.

To obtain a nomination form, please visit our web site at www.sja1890.org.

2010-2011 Annual Fund Join us as we “Weave One Heart” For 120 years, Saint Joseph Academy has continued to provide excellence in education to the young women entrusted in our care. We accomplish these efforts through the support of our dedicated students, parents, alumnae, faculty, staff, friends and the community.

Despite our notable accomplishments, the needs of those individuals that we serve remain great. Currently 63% of our students receive some form of financial subsidy and 19% qualify for free or reduced lunches through the federal government. It remains our goal to provide the highest quality education and life-changing opportunities to all of the young women entrusted in our care.

The Annual Fund of Saint Joseph Academy helps to provide the foundation of financial support which strengthens our daily operations, provides vital tuition assistance, and enhances every facet of student life. We

Nazareth Luncheon 2010

hope that you will agree that an investment in Saint Joseph Academy is a lasting gift that sustains our students and our school. Please consider making a contribution in order to support the growing needs of the young women we serve. All gifts are appreciated no matter what the amount.

To make a gift, simply visit our website at www.sja1890.org/donate or mail your gift to the attention of the Annual Fund at Saint Joseph Academy, 3430 Rocky River Drive, Cleveland, Ohio 44111. For questions or for more information about how you can support SJA’s giving initiatives, please contact Amy Kocian, Development Director, at (216) 251-6788 x229 or akocian@sja1890.org.

It remains our hope that we can count on you to help us continue the success of Saint Joseph Academy.

Please Join Us at

Celebrate

the Academy

Class of 1960: (l. to r., standing) Patricia Nylen Roff, Annette Pirozek, Marilyn Manos Glauner, Judy Shultz Tuwalski, Jeannette Nylen Zebris, Kathleen Cooney, OSU, Rosemarie Ruggiero Cassesa; (l. to r., seated): Mary Lou Hundza Murray, Elaine Kasl Bakos, Sally Bubnick Niklas, Luann Kash Kehoe, Pat Needham Baldwin The luncheon for alumnae of Nazareth Academy was Sunday, September 12, at La Centre in Westlake, Ohio. Sixty-two alumnae attended and enjoyed visiting with six former teachers from Nazareth. Special recognition was given to the classes of 1980, 1975, 1970, 1965 – and especially to 1960, the first Nazareth class to celebrate a 50-year anniversary of graduation.

St. Therese Luncheon 2010

SursumCorda

Lifting Our Hearts - Then, Now and for the Future Saturday, February 19, 2011 Honoring 2011 Medaille Shield Recipients Dr. Michael & Catherine Gallagher

Class of 1949: (l. to r., standing) Anita Dixon Eppley, Marie Grodzinski Mayton, Joanne Hess Schwartz; (l. to r., seated): Alice Davis Johnson, Josephine Smith Davis

Special Thanks to Event Chairs Bridget & Tom Guarente P ’11

Mario & Dana Morino P ’10 & ’13

The luncheon for alumnae of Saint Therese Academy was Thursday, September 30, at Saint Joseph Academy. The 16 alumnae enjoyed being entertained by the Chamber Ensemble students and attended a special Mass celebrated just for them in the Holy Family Chapel.

To learn more, contact Amy Kocian at 216.251.6788 x229 Saint Joseph Academy FALL/WINTER 2010

19

Memoriam In

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

Genevieve Galmbacher Kocab ’40 on the death of her husband, Robert Kocab.

Rita Wenzler O’Donnell ’55 on the death of her mother, Marian Wenzler.

Carol Harrison Panek ’67 on the death of her mother, Carol Harrison.

Lois Gorey Violand ’40 on the death of her husband, Walter Leo Violand, Sr.

Margaret Whelan Farling ’56 on the death of her husband, Robert Farling.

Kathleen Corrigan Lochtefeld ’42 on the death of her brother, Peter H. Corrigan, Sr.

Roberta Higgins Labadie ’56 and Catherine Higgins Baker ’61 on the death of their sister, Mary Higgins Warner ’40.

Cynthia Nemetz Sand ’67 and Karen Nemetz ’72 on the death of their mother, Lillian Nemetz.

Gerry Rowley Painter ’44 on the death of her husband and Margie Painter Lasko ’70 on the death of her father, Carl “Bud” Painter.

Mary Jane Masterson, CSJ ’46 on the death of her brother, William Grover Masterson.

Kathleen Griffin Barendt ’48 and Mary Lou Griffin Kistner ’58 on the death of their brother, Thomas Griffin, Jr. Maggie Thompson McCaskey ’48 on the death of her daughter, Molly Rothgery.

Alice Krach Weisbarth ’48, Kathleen Krach Koster ’50, and Bertha Krach Sturm ’58 on the death of their sister, Margaret Krach Satmary ’45.

Marjorie Lasky Theus ’50 on the death of her husband, Thomas Theus.

Margaret Allen Gerard ’51 on the death of her husband, William Gerard.

Corita Ambro, CSJ ’53 on the death of her sister, Dorothy Ambro Bender ’51.

Juliana Breitenbach Carlton ’53 on the death of her son, Jerome Carlton, Sr. Arlene Kauffman Wedding ’53, Nancy Kauffman Nye ’58, Mary Kauffman Steiner ’65, and Carol Kauffman Steiner ’65 on the death of their brother, John Kauffman.

Joan Miller Pepke ’54 on the death of her husband, Paul Pepke, Jr. Judy Boll Krych ’55 and Katherine Boll Schneid ’58 on the death of their mother, Barbara Wittman Boll ’34.

Sheila McDonald McNally ’55 on the death of her sister, Moira McDonald Marciniak ’57.

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Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE

Roseanne Crocco Bucci ’57 on the death of her husband and Laura Bucci Mahakian ’78 on the death of her father, Louis A. Bucci.

Delann Kohn Dempsey ’58, Celene Kohn Petkash N’61, and Eileen Kohn Edman N’64 on the death of their mother, Eileen Murray Kohn ’31.

Alberta Kunkel ’58 on the death of her brother, Paul Leo Kunkel.

Ann Darrah Ritty ’58 on the death of her husband, E. Fred Ritty.

Mary Ann Bloomingdale Medvecky ’60 on the death of her husband and Joan Medvecky Blankenship ’61 on the death of her brother, Bartholomew Medvecky.

Kathleen Fedor Murphy N’60 on the death of her father, John Fedor.

Jane Fitzgerald Spreng ’61 on the death of her mother, Evelyn Fitzgerald.

Pat Olexo Petrosky N’61 on the death of her brother, Eugene Olexo.

Sue Reiland Zitiello N’65 and Kathleen Reiland Chimilewski N’73 on the death of their mother, Suzanne Reiland.

Janet Louis ’66 and Mary Louis Milliman ’74 on the death of their mother, Rita Myers Louis T’38.

Marilyn Kruszynski Macharoni ’66 on the death of her father, Joseph Kruszynski.

Sharon Musil Scroggins ’66 on the death of her husband, Paul Scroggins.

Margaret Kotabish Zawadski N’66 on the death of her father, Joseph Kotabish.

Judith Hughes Collins ’68, Ruth Hughes Speer ’71, and Nancy Hughes Wagner ’73 on the death of their mother and Thelma West Mathewson ’52 on the death of her sister, H. Celeste West Hughes ’46.

Linda Paulozzi Heiss ’68, Mary Beth Paulozzi Shero ’77, Gerianne Paulozzi Noll ’78, and Monica Paulozzi Fletcher ’80 on the death of their father, Joseph Paulozzi.

Kathleen Dister Reilley ’68 and Nancy Dister Richards ’72 on the death of their mother, Jeanne Dister.

Margaret Slife Schalmo ’68 and Nancy Slife Habermann ’73 on the death of their mother and Jane Reidy Obringer ’38, Eileen Reidy Haas ’41, and Anne Reidy Sweeney ’44 on the death of their sister, Marie “Liz” Reidy Slife ’34.

Debbie Shannon ’68 and Patricia Shannon McLaughlin ’70 on the death of their father, John Shannon.

Monica Joyce Boitel ’69 and Kathleen Joyce Patton ’71 on the death of their father, William Joyce.

Margaret Cole N’69 and Therese Cole Byrum N’70 on the death of their mother, Rose Marie Cole.

Linda Scurka Potak N’69 on the death of her mother, Dorothy Scurka.

Margaret Raffay Berei ’70 and Mary Raffay Petrigac ’71 on the death of their mother, Margaret Egan Raffay ’48.

Mary Beth Mancuso Bukvic ’70 on the death of her father, Vincent Mancuso.

Christine Pagel Pierce ’70 on the death of her sister, Sue Pagel Gallagher ’73.

Ne

ews Ann Stefanek Krych N’71 on the death of her father, Vincent Stefanek.

Debi Sarwinski Stahlberg N’72 on the death of her mother, Arlene Sarwinski.

Anne Hydock ’75, Kathleen Hydock ’77, and Clare Hydock ’78 on the death of their mother, Dorma Eppley Hydock ’47. Dorma was a longtime employee at SJA in the cafeteria.

Debbie Willis N’72 on the death of her brother, Matthew Willis.

Mary C. O’Malley ’75 on the death of her mother and Zita Mullen Tumney ’53 on the death of her sister, Jeanne O’Malley.

Monika Wagner Olenik ’73 on the death of her husband, Jeffrey Olenik.

Mary Pat Ryan Tappel ’75 on the death of her father, Harry W. Ryan.

Nannette Coleman Sprague ’73 on the death of her father, James Coleman.

Laura Palascak ’76 on the death of her father, Raymond Palascak.

Rose Lawas-Smith N’73, Mary Lawas Saddemi N’75, Frances Lawas-Grodek N’78, and Marcelle Lawas N’80 on the death of their mother, Gloria Lawas.

Nora Finnegan ’78 and Mary Finnegan ’80 on the death of their mother and Patricia Cusick ’49 on the death of her sister, Ann Cusick Finnegan ’53, a longtime teacher at SJA and Nazareth Academy.

Carol Banyasz Staab N’73 on the death of her father, Frank Banyasz.

Peggy Begin ’74, Patricia Begin Koly ’75, Catherine Begin Morris ’76, Babette Begin Cameron ’79, and Lisa Begin ’80 on the death of their father and Sheila Begin Zimmerer ’54, Lenore Begin ’58, Laura Begin Kuhn ’63, Barbara Begin Campbell ’72, and Donna Begin Tkachyk ’76 on the death of their brother, Leroy Begin.

Mary Knab ’74, Katherine Knab Burkhardt ’78, and Maureen Knab Van ’81 on the death of their father, Richard J. Knab.

Carol O’Boyle Clark ’75 on the death of her husband and Bridget Clark ’04 on the death of her father, Glen “Pete” Clark.

Anne Andrews Weithman ’79 on the death of her father, James Andrews, Sr. Margie Schultz Pavone N’79 and Francine Schultz Biaglow N’80 on the death of their father, Frank Schultz.

Kathleen Carey Conley ’80 on the death of her mother, Martha Carey.

Renita Kolman McMillen ’81, Cynthia Kolman ’83, Kandace Kolman Trexler ’84, and Jacquelyn Kolman Indre ’86 on the death of their father, Randall Kolman.

Maureen Povinelli ’81 on the death of her sister, Laura Povinelli.

Linda Sawyer Verhotz ’81 on the death of her mother, Barbara Sawyer.

Kathleen Seelye Bohrer ’83, Stephanie Seelye Sternad ’84, and Deborah Seelye Bowman ’88 on the death of their mother, Joanne Seelye.

Michelle Fergus Drabik ’83 on the death of her husband, Martin J. Drabik.

Marlene Miller ’85 on the death of her father, William Miller.

Margaret Morrow Trombetta ’86 and Hope Morrow Popa ’89 on the death of their brother, Charles Morrow.

Ann Marie Gillissie Pautz ’91 on the death of her father, Patrick Gillissie.

Nicole Pejeau Flachbart ’93 on the death of her father, C. Gary Pejeau.

Courtney Keener Ponigar ’00 on the death of her brother, Bret Keener.

Natalie Goffi Weintz ’00 on the death of her son, Adam Joshua Weintz.

Valerie West ’01 on the death of her mother, Kathryn West.

Katie DiNardi ’03 on the death of her mother, Sandra DiNardi.

Krystle George ’05 on the death of her mother, Candy George.

In Memoriam correction for Update: Mary Lou Lindquist Burns ’79 on the death of her father, John B. Lindquist. Mary Lou’s name was inadvertently omitted from a previous issue of Update.

Please remember in your prayers the following deceased alumnae.

Eileen Murray Kohn ’31 Barbara Wittman Boll ’34 Marie “Liz” Reidy Slife ’34 Lucille Moran, CSJ ’36 Catherine “Katie” Keane Fitzgerald ’37 Cecille Elizabeth “Betty” Kilduff Arth ’38 Rita Myers Louis T’38 Mary Thomas Byrne, CSJ ’40 Mary Higgins Warner ’40 Patricia VanEssen Meehan ’43

Jeanne Bliss Silagy T’44 Mary Clare Moran, CSJ ’45 Margaret Krach Satmary ’45 H. Celeste West Hughes ’46 Dorma Eppley Hydock ’47 Margaret Egan Raffay ’48 Marguerite “Peggy” Foos Dubnicka T’48 Jeanne Marie Richards T’48 Jean O’Linn Kilbane T’49 Dorothy Ambro Bender ’51

Ann Cusick Finnegan ’53 Patricia Ann Johns Barnack ’55 Moira McDonald Marciniak ’57 Blanche Stewart Ryder ’57 Mary Kathleen Kavanaugh Hirsch ’60 Kathleen Bringman Dunson ’66 Rosemary Flynn Pinczuk N’71 Sue Pagel Gallagher ’73 Theresa “Terry” Gubeno Horonzy N’73

Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE

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Beyonds Alumnae

1940s

On October 8, 2010, the International Women’s Air and Space Museum (IWASM), located at Burke Lakefront Airport, dedicated its Education Center to Saint Joseph Academy alumna Joan Hrubec ’49. As a student at SJA, Joan developed an interest in aviation.

She was a cadet in the Civil Air Patrol and won awards as a model plane builder. She

Joan Hrubec

attended Stephens College in Columbia, Mo., and earned her pilot’s license there. Joan was an active member of the Ninety-Nines, an organization founded in 1929 by 99 licensed female pilots for the advancement of aviation among women. She served on its International Executive Board for three years. She was an air racer and participated in the Powder Puff Derby three times. She also won the Angel Derby from Canada to Cuba in 1955 and took first place in the Fairladies Indiana Air Race in 1967. She was a trustee of the IWASM for 31 years and was instrumental in moving the museum to Cleveland in 1998.

Although Joan died in 2007, her spirit and name will forever live on at the Joan Hrubec Education Center at the International Women’s Air and Space Museum!

July 17, 2011 in Chardon, Ohio. Sister Kathleen is serving as Parish Minister at St. Joseph Parish in Zephyrhills, Fla., where she is involved with Prison Ministry, JustFaith, and religious education. She will be coordinating a pilgrimage to the Holy Land in February of 2011.

1960s

Kathleen Colleran Goldbach ’62 and Dianne DeTrow Harkin ’62 are already busy looking for lost classmates from the SJA Class of 1962. They are hoping for a great turnout of alumnae to celebrate the 50-year anniversary of graduation at the 2012 Grand Reunion scheduled for the weekend of October 6. If you have information about a lost classmate, please contact Kathleen (kathleenirish@hotmail. com), Dianne (jdharkin@frontier.com), or the Alumnae Office (maf@sja1890.org).

Elaine Connelly ’63 is the RN Coordinator at the newly opened Richfield Holistic Wellness Center in Richfield, Ohio. Elaine is a registered nurse and licensed nursing home administrator who has held certifications in Gerontology, Rehabilitation, and Sub Acute Care Administration.

Diocesan schools recently named as Blue Ribbon Schools by the U.S. Department of Education. Joyce was recognized for this outstanding accomplishment in a recent front page article in the Universe Bulletin.

Linda Kane ’75 recently funded an endowed scholarship at the Nance College of Business at Cleveland State University for business students, with preference to alumnae of Saint Joseph Academy. There are no specific qualifications or requirements, other than being an SJA alumna. Linda is very excited to establish this scholarship which helps both of her alma maters.

1980s

Mary Jo Cotner ’82 was recently promoted to publisher of Healthcare Design Magazine and Healthcare Building Ideas Magazine, which are owned by the Vendome Group, LLC, based in New York City.

Therese Dever Griebel ’84 was recently promoted to head of the Code DP/Avionics & Electrical Systems Division at NASA. Therese has about 100 people, mostly electrical engineers, reporting to her.

1990s

1970s

The SJA Class of 1957 gets together on the last Wednesday of the month at Panera’s on Detroit Road in Westlake. They meet at 1:00 p.m. and have a great time! Join them beginning February 2011.

Peggy Murphy Kerr ’70 was recently certified by Bishop Lennon for the Diocese of Cleveland as a lay ecclesial minister. Peggy provides Catholic services and spiritual counseling for female inmates at the Cuyahoga County jail.

Tracey Brich Murphy ’90 was recently named building administrator of Kemper House in Olmsted Falls, Ohio. Kemper House is a licensed residential care facility dedicated entirely to caring for persons living with memory impairment resulting from diagnoses such as Alzheimer’s disease. Tracey oversees day-to-day operations, including resident life, staffing, and facility services. She brings more than fifteen years experience in the areas of business development, marketing, community relations, and event planning.

A resident of Avon, Ohio, Tracey is active in the Greater Cleveland community as a volunteer for the Alzheimer’s Association. She is a member of their Speaker’s Bureau and co-chaired the organization’s 2009 Memory Walk fundraising event.

Kathleen Lyons, SND ’57 will celebrate her Golden Jubilee of Religious Profession of Vows in the Sisters of Notre Dame on

Joyce Needham N’73 is the principal at St. Christopher’s School in Rocky River, Ohio. Her school is one of only four

Heather Kazmer ’96, who has been working for The Sherwin-Williams Company for the past seven years, recently earned an MBA from Cleveland State University. Upon graduation, Heather accepted a position as a plant accounting manager at one of the company’s paint manufacturing facilities in Greensboro,

1950s

22

Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE

Maureen Brady Johnson ’69 recently received the prestigious Educational Theatre Association’s Founders Award. This national award was presented to Maureen at Sardi’s Restaurant in New York City on October 2, 2010.

Maureen O’Connor N’69 was recently elected Chief Justice of the Ohio Supreme Court. This is the first time in the Ohio Supreme Court’s 208-year history that a woman will serve as its chief justice. Maureen has served on the Court since 2002.

N.C. She is looking forward to the adventure of relocating to a new state and meeting new friends.

Traci Torok ’96 was recently elected chairman of the board at the Los Angeles Junior Chamber of Commerce.

The SJA

CubClub Jodi Todten Africa ’90 & John Africa a son, Jaxon Chase, born March 8, 2010

Caroline Kelly Kessler ’00 & Bill Kessler a son, Liam Edward, born September 20, 2010

Sheila Nagy Murphy ’94 & Michael Murphy a son, Sean Philip, born October 18, 2010

Kate Devring Link ’01 & Jason Link a son, Sullivan, born April 26, 2010

Nicole Vertal Dunn ’01 married James Dunn on June 19, 2010. Sara Volle Schneider ’01, Kathleen Kress ’01, Shannon VanDenHaute Lembach ’01, Christine Brutvan ’01 Beth Boscarelli Welch ’00, Amy Vertal ’05, and Jessica Brutvan ’05 celebrated along with family alumnae Debbie Vertal Brutvan ’75, Lynda Vertal Ledvina ’78, Patricia Vertal O’Reilly ’80, Kate Brutvan Grill ’97, and Amelia Boemer Mackey ’38. Nicole and her husband reside in Los Angeles, Calif., where Nicole is a member of the History Department at Immaculate Heart High School, an all-girl Catholic high school led by the Immaculate Heart Community.

Ann Marie O’Meara Fred ’95 & John Fred a daughter, Sonja Grace, born November 8, 2009

Elizabeth Hardin Burton ’04 & John Burton a daughter, Lily Cora, born September 26, 2010

Erin Joecken Draves ’97 & Tim Draves a son, Matthew Charlie, born July 25, 2010

Jackie Jamison DuBroy ’04 & Matt DuBroy a son, Thomas Joseph, born July 29, 2010

Sharon Leahy Mazur ’98 & Bill Mazur a daughter, Lauren Nicole, born September 18, 2010

Roxanne Rivard Steinmuller ’04 & Rob Steinmuller a daughter, Annabelle Louise, born June 16, 2010

Karen Buccier Watson ’99 & Peter Watson a son, Payton Ashley, born May 12, 2010

Megan Amos Barrow ’05 & Jarrod Barrow a son, Evan, born June 7, 2010

Jennifer Stagl Wagner ’01 recently graduated from Cleveland State University with a master’s degree in social work. After graduation, she married to Michael Wagner on July 31, 2010. Jennifer is currently working on a master’s degree in public administration. She and her husband reside in Rocky River, Ohio.

of Massachusetts Lowell in community and social psychology. Currently, she is enrolled in a post-baccalaureate science program at Cleveland State University and is in her second year of pre-med coursework. Elizabeth also works at Knowledge College, Inc., an afterschool tutoring provider for the Cleveland Public Schools.

Jennifer Schade Kindbom ’98 recently had her chapbook of poetry entitled A Note on the Door published by Finishing Line Press.

2000s

Mary Lanzola Bailey ’02 married Joshua Bailey on July 10, 2010. Ann Perry ’03 was her maid of honor. Mary is currently working on a master’s degree in special education at Cleveland State University.

Elizabeth Looney ’02 graduated summa cum laude from the University of San Francisco in 2006 with bachelor’s degrees in psychology and Latin American studies. After graduation, Elizabeth went to work in El Salvador as part of the Casa de la Solidaridad (House of Solidarity) study abroad program. The Casa program, which is Jesuit-based, is run through Santa Clara University and focuses on simple living, community, faith, and social justice.

It brings undergraduate students from the United States to El Salvador for a semester where they live in community, take courses at the local Jesuit University, and spend two days a week working in a marginalized community.

After her El Salvador experience, Elizabeth earned a master’s degree from the University

Fadia Nemeh ’02 graduated from Case Western Reserve University’s School of Law in May of this year and is practicing law in Cleveland.

Ashley Thomas ’02 graduated from law school at Duquesne University, passed the State of Ohio Bar Exam, and was sworn in by the Ohio Supreme Court in Columbus, Ohio on November 8, 2010.

Miranda Forgac Portteus ’03 married Thomas Portteus on June 19, 2010 at St. Cyril and Methodius Church in Lakewood, Ohio. Her sister, Allison Forgac Wankowski ’04, was her matron of honor, and Marie Kilbane ’03 was a bridesmaid.

Miranda and her husband reside in Irving, Texas, where Miranda teaches AP U.S. History, U.S. History, Government, and Economics at The Jack E. Singley Academy.

Lisa Sanniti ’03 recently passed the State of Ohio Bar Exam and currently works for the City of Cleveland.

Margaret Sweeney ’03 recently passed the State of Ohio Bar Exam.

Amy Melvin ’04 recently graduated magna cum laude from Cleveland State University with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. Amy is currently continuing her education in graduate school at CSU. Marie Dantio ’06 recently graduated summa cum laude from Wittenberg University with department honors in biology as well as university honors. She was named to the dean’s list all eight semesters. Marie is currently attending The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine.

Paige Pierce ’08 worked as an intern in Congressman John Boccieri’s office.

Mary Jo Reddy ’10 was named a recipient of the 2010 Kevin Higgins College Scholarship, a national scholarship for rugby players.

Mary Jo, who was captain of the rugby team in her senior year at SJA, has already impressed her college coach at The Ohio State University. She is recognized as a leader on the rugby team there also.

Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE

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

Saint Joseph Academy 3430 Rocky River Drive Cleveland, Ohio 44111 www.sja1890.org Dated Material

Parents of Alumnae: If this publication is addressed to your daughter who no longer maintains a permanent address at your home, please notify the Alumnae Office at (216) 251-6788 x221, or write to us at 3430 Rocky River Drive, Cleveland, Ohio 44111.

If you enjoy reading UPDATE please let us know. We’ll be glad to send a copy to her and continue sending a copy to you.

Ahead Looking

Mark your calendars for Celebrate the Academy 2011

“Lifting Our Hearts - Then, Now and for the Future” This year’s Medaille Shield honorees are Dr. Michael and Catherine Gallagher Saturday, February 19, 2011, 6:00 p.m. at La Centre in Westlake, Ohio Corporate and individual tables available Individual tickets: $125 per person For reservations or information, please contact Amy Kocian, Development Director, at 216-251-6788 x229

Alumnae Basketball Game

Spring Luncheon

Bring your basketball talents to SJA on Saturday, February 12, 2011, for the annual match of odd year graduates vs. even year graduates. Or come to watch and cheer from the sidelines. All are welcome! The doors will open at 10:30 a.m., and the game will begin at 11:00. There will be contests for children during half-time and pizza and pop following the game. Please call Betty Hjort in the Alumnae Office at 216-251-6788 x245 if you plan to participate or attend.

Mark your calendars now for the Spring Luncheon! This annual event becomes more popular each year, so call your friends now and ask them to join your table for the luncheon to be held at the Westwood Country Club on Wednesday, May 11, 2011. In addition to a delicious meal, attendees will receive goodie bags, enjoy a fabulous raffle, re-connect with old friends, and make new ones! Proceeds from this event benefit the students of Saint Joseph Academy.

Grand Reunion

Evening of Reflection Please join us on Monday, April 18, 2011, to begin the holiest week of the liturgical year by participating in our annual Evening of Reflection for Women. This year’s program will include dinner, a presentation by Pat Kozak, CSJ ’64, and opportunities for sharing and group prayer. Invitations will be mailed in February to alumnae living locally. If you do not receive an invitation but would like to attend, please contact Alumnae Director Mary Ann Fischer ’66 at 216-619-1653 or maf@sja1890.org.

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Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE Register On-Line

Attention SJA alumnae from classes ending in 1 or 6! Grand Reunion weekend will be October 7 – 9, 2011. Activities include an informal get-together on Friday evening for the classes of 1996, 2001, and 2006. On Saturday evening all the reunion classes are invited to dinner at the Westwood Country Club. And Sunday features brunch for the classes of 1936, 1941, 1946, 1951, 1956, and 1961. All reunion class members and their families are invited to join us for Mass and Open House on Sunday as well. Start now to round up your classmates and plan to attend!

at www.sja1890.org/alumnae/alumnae events