Saint Joseph Academy Update - Summer 2010

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

Jaguar Rugby Wins State Championship!

Read more on page 10

Letter from the President Dear Alumnae, Parents and Friends,

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: Jen Amodio, Mindy Broadhead Averitt, Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis ’71, Ann Quinn Doran ’48, Mary Ann Fischer ’66, Betty Hjort, Audrey Menard, Maria Mueller, Ron Perger, Jenn Reeder, Constance Sipple, Gina Sullivan, and Brandon Vulpitta.

Photography courtesy of Shelly DiCello, , Marianne Mangan, John Mulgrew, Ron Perger, Thomas & Thomas Photography, and Woodard Photography. Historical photos courtesy of the CSJ Archives and Sr. June Hansen, CSJ ’58.

For more information or questions, please contact Ron Perger, Director of Communications & Public Relations at 216.619.1937 or rperger@sja1890.org

M i ss i o n 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

Perhaps it is a sign of age, but it does seem to me that the years are passing with ever increasing speed. How else could one explain that in a blink of an eye 146 young women who entered as freshmen four short years ago graduated this June? How else could one explain to the women from the Class of 1950 that their days together at SJA were not just last week? Tempus fugit, or time flies, as the ancient Romans observed.

Whenever milestones are achieved in life, one tends to reflect on how quickly time flies. This issue of UPDATE contains stories of milestones, including another installment about the 120th Anniversary of Saint Joseph Academy. We congratulate the Sisters of St. Joseph and religious alumnae who mark their Jubilee of service to the Lord, from 25 to 70 years since professing their sacred vows. We celebrate with the Class of 1950 on the sixtieth anniversary of their own graduation while we congratulate the Class of 2010. We recognize Mary Ann Fischer ‘66 on the occasion of her fortieth year of service at SJA. We mourn the loss of alumnae and loved ones, and leap with joy for the birth of children to alumnae new mothers.

We admire the “Golden Girls” of the West Side Catholic Center, who are shining examples of serving “the dear neighbor.” We cheer for the first athletic state championship in Jaguar history! Life is full of milestone moments.

There is a Broadway show tune that reflects on the passage of time. The lyrics tell us that there are five hundred twenty-five thousand six hundred minutes in a year. That’s a big number: 525,600. But the real question is how we use our time?

At Saint Joseph Academy, we strive to prepare our students to use their time wisely. Four years may not be long, but four years at SJA come at a formative stage in the young lives of our students. Each young woman is encouraged to discover her unique God-given talents and to stretch herself beyond what she may feel she is capable of doing. In the classroom, on the athletic field, or on the stage, she is encouraged to grow. In particular, she is encouraged to develop her personal relationship with Christ and to become a woman of faith. Providing service in the community and reflecting on that experience is one way students can grow in their faith. In fact, students of Saint Joseph Academy provided over 49,000 hours of community service last year.

Milestones are markers of time. If we use our time here on earth to spread the Gospel values learned at SJA, we will have used our time wisely.

compassionate leadership and service in a global society.

Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis; ’71 President

Cover Photo: SJA Jaguar Rugby Team celebrate the first state championship in the history of SJA!

2

Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE Summer 2010

Excellence in the Education of Women Celebrating

120 YearS OF

Class of 1906

W

hen listening to a group of alumnae talk ecology, pottery, painting, and public speaking. about their days at Saint Joseph Academy, Currently students still take the required courses the one recurring phrase has always been, “We were but are also offered Advanced Placement classes prepared for life. The Sisters and teachers made sure in a variety of subjects. And in keeping pace with that whatever our vocation, college, the workforce, or advancements in technology, students can also a stay-at-home mom – we were prepared,” remarked choose classes like digital photography, preMargaret Wagner Baxendale ’40. “During World engineering and web design. SJA also offers elective War II, I joined the Women’s Army Corps and served courses in a range of topics from print making to my country. I learned to replace parts on airplanes.

Irish Literature. “Today we offer a broad spectrum Business Technology circa 1940 Saint Joseph Academy prepared me for whatever of courses across the curriculum and focus on situation I came upon,” she said. special interests of students like our engineering The Sisters of the Congregation courses,” according to Academy of St. Joseph saw the critical need for President Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis education when they arrived in the ’71.

United States. As the Congregation Saint Joseph Academy continues made their way from St. Louis to prepare students for whatever lies to Cleveland in the 1870s they ahead. Ninety-seven percent of the established elementary and secondary class of 2010 were accepted to over schools including Saint Joseph 200 colleges and universities around Academy in 1890. the country and received over $13.6 Art Class circa 1940 From the school’s early history, million in merit based scholarships.

Chemistry circa 1940 students were required to study Shannon Tomek ’08 who is entering science, math, English, history, the arts, and of course theology. her junior year at the University of Dayton majoring in Engineering There were also courses in other skills such as typing, shorthand, and sounded a familiar theme when she said, “When I graduated from home economics. Over the years, there have been courses on botany, Saint Joseph Academy, I knew I was well prepared for the future.”

Today our students are as creative as ever using the latest technology preparing for the future.

Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE Summer 2010

3

The Many Benefits of an All-Girls Education By: Audrey C. Menard, Principal

“Girls’ schools are an antidote to the dominant culture that treats young women as sex objects, that says success means being thin and having nice clothes and a cool boyfriend.”

Where Girls Come First, Ilana DeBare, pp. 324.

T

here is a growing body of research that shows empirically that young women are more confident and successful as a result of single-sex education. Young women who attend all-girls schools experience personal gains in academic success, social development, and special programs. These benefits are superior to those a girl might expect to obtain in a co-educational environment.

The academic potential of a young woman can be better attained through curriculum and instruction geared toward her gender specific needs. Teachers prepare educational outcomes with the unique qualities of the female brain in mind. Studies have shown that the students will focus on performance more than appearance and will select higher educational goals. Girls also tend to enjoy school more in general and have a more positive attitude about learning. The young women have also been documented as being willing to take more calculated risks in the classroom. They become more confident in their public speaking and leadership skills. There also exists evidence of significantly higher test scores in both reading and mathematics compared to girls who attend co-educational environments. Clearly, a single-sex environment for young women provides many positive academic outcomes.

There are also many benefits students can glean from the social context of an all-girls environment. In studies, it has been shown that the young women overcome the traditional sex-role stereotypes that exist in the broader society. Girls also perceive positively their friends

A few recommended resources:

that do well academically rather than those who attend to their appearance.

The girls grow in their own personal efficacy and believe themselves to be masters of their own choices, values, and quality of life. Additionally, they benefit from observing strong female role-models and grow to develop high expectations for themselves. Finally, students in an all-girls setting tend to have strong attendance records and have fewer discipline problems. These lessons are not as easily internalized by young women who attend a co-educational setting.

Because of the nature of an all-girls school, special programs can be designed and promoted to develop individual talents and abilities of the female students. Each program can be sensitive to the specific developmental, social, intellectual and emotional needs of girls. The girls can receive greater encouragement in science, math and technology than in co-educational schools. Such encouragement has resulted in girls being more apt to elect higher level math and science classes.

Athletics in an all-girls school also tends to enjoy a higher rate of overall female participation than in co-educational schools. By creating and promoting female specific programming opportunities, the young women have a chance to grow in a more holistic fashion.

Saint Joseph Academy has promoted these benefits since its creation in 1890. For over one hundred-twenty years, the school has developed young women who are compassionate leaders for a global society. The school continues to incorporate current trends and instructional practices that will ensure that the girls are well equipped for a successful future.

Principal Accepts New Post Principal Audrey Menard has accepted a new position as the principal of St. Thomas More High School in Lafayette, Louisiana.

Saint Joseph Academy President Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis ’71said, “I am personally grateful to Audrey for all she has done during her time at the Academy. Since she arrived in 2006, she has helped expand our rigorous curriculum to make it more relevant in today’s world, including adding Chinese to our world languages program. She has also been a strong advocate of literacy across the curriculum and has demonstrated a deep commitment to Catholic education. We wish her continued success in her move to Louisiana.”

http://www.ncgs.org/ - The National Coalition of Girls’ Schools Why Gender Matters by Leonard Sax Where Girls Come First by Ilana DeBare Boys and Girls Learn Differently by Michael Gurion Girls Will Be Girls: Raising Confident and Courageous Daughters by JoAnn Deak Same, Different, Equal: Rethinking Single-Sex Schooling by Rosemary Salamone All Girls: Single Sex Education and Why It Matters by Karen Stabiner

4

Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE Summer 2010

Junior Professional Shadowing Project

Real Life Experience The Class of 2011 went out into the working world to participate in the annual Junior Professional Shadowing Project. This three-day experience was designed to expose our students to the rewards and challenges of the careers that they may be considering for their future. Students select careers they may be interested in, find a mentor in that field, spend time on the job learning about their perspective career and complete a journal about their experiences.

“It’s interesting to observe the wide variety of careers students select to shadow.” According to SJA’s Career Shadowing Coordinator, Becky Goede McNulty ’96, “This year’s juniors were drawn to a variety of careers from a range of engineering, medical and science related professions to advertising and even theatrical careers, a testament to the broad range of interests of this particular class.”

School President Mary Ann CorriganDavis ’71 commented, “We strive to ensure our students receive a well-rounded education. Our junior shadowing program allows our students to get a taste of what it might be like to work in a particular field.

It promotes organizational skills, applicable knowledge and teaches them how to be productive and successful in a global society.”

Thanks to all of the alumnae and friends of the Academy who helped make this experience special!

Emily Nemeth ’11 shadowed Elizabeth McQuaid from NASA John H. Glenn Research at Lewis Field in Cleveland. Ms. McQuaid is an electrical technician who works on wireless circuit boards as they pertain to aircraft. During Emily’s shadowing she learned about modern circuit boarding and how much effort goes into completing even the smallest projects. When asked what the best part of her experience was she said, “I worked with some outstanding engineers and technicians and would really enjoy doing it again.” When she graduates, Emily would like to study engineering, technology or computer programming.

Megan Seaman ’11 traveled to Boulder, Colorado to shadow Clark Evans, a hurricane and severe storms meteorologist

Interim Principal Appointed

Megan Seaman ’11 at the National Center for Atmospheric Research in Boulder CO, with meteorologist Clark Evans.

at the National Center for Atmospheric Research. There, Megan was able to learn about cyclones, vortex dynamics, modeling, programming and a number of meteorological experiments. Megan said, “Having the opportunity to meet with some of the most talented and brilliant scientists was amazing. In addition to atmospheric science, I’m considering a career in engineering. I’m hoping my internship at Cornell this summer will help me decide.”

Samantha Zogheib ’11 shadowed at Westlake Reed Leskosky, an architectural engineering firm in downtown Cleveland which specializes in large, local and national building projects focusing on environmentallyfriendly building and operational methods.

Samantha shadowed over 20 different people including Marianne Riccardi ’96, a designer with Westlake Reed Leskosky, giving her a wide perspective of an architect’s typical day. She learned how to apply software programs, design models, implement project management skills and toured some of their current projects. The best part about her experience said Samantha, “I loved learning about the projects, seeing sketches, designs and seeing how the projects turned out. Since I want to be an architect, they helped me figure out what colleges had the best programs and what courses I would need.”

SJA board of Directors along with President Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis ’71 announced the appointment of James M. Cantwell, Ed.D. as the interim principal of Saint Joseph Academy for the 2010-2011 academic year. “I am delighted to welcome Dr. Cantwell to SJA as our interim principal for tthis school year. Dr. Cantwell will be an outstanding educational leader for the Academy. I believe his depth of practical experience and natural wisdom will be tremendous assets, while working alongside our President, distinguished faculty and staff,” said Board Chair Anne Marie Carey Pecon ’71.

Dr. Cantwell spent most of his 40+ years in education in private schools, serving as head of school in both permanent and interim positions in the United States and abroad. He earned his Ed.D. and M.Ed. at Columbia University. He also earned a Master’s degree at the Antioch Graduate School of Education in Yellow Springs, Ohio and his undergraduate B.A. from the University of Vermont.

“We were intentional in seeking an interim principal,” explained Academy President Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis ’71. “Dr. Cantwell knows how to keep a school community moving forward while providing SJA time to identify the individual to fulfill our academic vision for 21st century, all-girls Catholic education in the city of Cleveland as long term principal,” she said. Dr. Cantwell responded,”My career journey has led me to Saint Joseph Academy, a healthy and vibrant community of young women preparing for college and life. I was immediately taken by the keen sense of commitment to the education of young women by the board, administration and faculty. It will be an honor to serve as your interim principal.”

Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE Summer 2010

5

Academy At the

A Real Senior Prom

Students and seniors enjoy the prom.

An idea from a class retreat turned into a true service project for eighteen SJA students. Ali Roudebush ’11 and Jackie Bova ’11 came up with an idea of having a senior prom for senior citizens at the Lakewood Senior Health Campus.

The Hawaiian-themed prom, complete with everything from leis, refreshments, music from the 30s and 40s, and even a prom king and queen, gave students an opportunity to be involved in a project that serves the community. Residents and students danced and talked the afternoon away and even posed for prom pictures!

Christine Dorsey, the Activities Director at the center said, “The residents have been looking forward to the prom from the moment they heard about it. Everyone really enjoyed the youthful festivities.”

Preparing for the prom was part of the fun. Teachers Grace Gutosky Ogonek ’80 and Renee Brickman Kaster ’91, members of Christian Outreach and Religious Education (C.O.R.E.) ministry group, said that students worked hard and had a lot of fun putting together and participating in the event. “We especially enjoyed talking to the residents,” said Ali. Jackie continued, “ When we saw how much the residents were enjoying the prom, we knew Callie Powers ’12 poses with one of the seniors for a prom that all of our hard work had paid off. It was also a great picture. experience to see our idea transformed into reality.”

Students take on Global Youth Service Day SJA students Katie Haller ’11, Katie Speice ’12 along with freshman Caroline Speice ’13 put on their service hats and contributed to Global Youth Service Day, an annual campaign celebrating the youth of America dedicated to improving their communities.

1,600 local youths worked together to help the needy and make their cities and parks better places to live L to R: Kathryn Burke ’11, and play.

Katherine Speice ’12, Elizabeth Cleveland teens Wagner ’12, and Caroline Spiece had a variety ’13 help to plant a garden. of choices for service-oriented projects. Katie Haller and her SJA classmates got a little dirty helping to plant at an urban garden site in Cleveland, through a Cleveland Botanical Garden. They chose this project because of the CSJ’s promise to renew the earth and SJA’s mission to care for all creation.

Katie Speice said, “Global Youth Service Day allows students of all ages from all over the world to be unified by doing service. This both impacts society and shows kids that service can be fun.” Global Youth Service Day is the largest service event in the world and is currently celebrated in over 100 countries.

Dinosaurs Come Alive in Purple and Gold!

Students apply their artistic talents.

6

Art students got acquainted with a few pre-historic creatures. Twenty students, along with Art Teacher Shelly DiCello, spent time painting a nearly life size dinosaur that will be displayed at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. In keeping with the Jaguar spirit, they decided to represent SJA by painting their dinosaur purple and gold using patterns and shapes that reference contemporary artists like Nina Bovasso and late 19th century symbolist painter Gustav Klimt.

Ms. DiCello said, “It was exciting to watch the students working together, problem solving the color palette, paint application and composition. I observed students apply the elements and principles of design without having to think about it.” Junior Callie Powers ’12 agreed saying, “Painting the dinosaurs was fun and the time flew by. Everyone is a part of the dinosaur that they painted. I can’t wait to go to the zoo and see what they look like displayed.”

Gina Costanzo ’12 remarked, “ I thought this project was really cool after I saw what everyone had created!”

Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE Summer 2010

Performing Arts Students Keep Busy

2010 Paws for Pride Combines Service and Spirit!

Left to right: Actors Adam Klop, Alexa Jones ’11, Thomas Corrigan and Kay Rommel ’11 in a scene from Hay Fever.

“Hay Fever” was Saint Joseph Academy’s Spring Fine Arts Production. This hilarious British comedy by renowned playwright Noel Coward brought down the house with laughter.

Five SJA students Alexa Jones ’11, Sara Masterson ’11, Kay Rommel ’11, Maggie Baughman ’12, and Katie Hutchinson ’13 and four young men from area high schools combined with a talented crew and a number of volunteers, made this a very funny and stylish performance. “It takes so much time and dedication to put on a production like this,” said Director Kevin Joseph Kelly.

“The kids worked very hard and they were rewarded with great applause from the audience. We continue to learn from each other, and the collaborative atmosphere empowers us to create something wonderful.”

SJA’s rendition of the famous play was done “in period” with colorful costumes and

a set that Noel Coward would be proud of.

Junior Kay Rommel said, “I love performing!

It was so fun to be on stage and engaging the audience. We were all delighted that it was so well received.”

The Instrumental and Choral ensembles were also busy with two concerts that were packed with music from Contemporary, Jazz and Cabaret to Musical Theater. Christine Janson, Visual and Performing Arts Teacher said, “The audience seemed completely engaged in the performances. Both groups and soloists sounded beautiful.” In addition, Saint Joseph Academy’s a capella choir, Cecelia’s Song, once again performed the National Anthem at Progressive Field for Saint Joseph Academy Day at the ballpark.

Congratulations to all the young women who worked so hard both on stage and back stage, Bravo!

Ecology Club Awarded Gold Status Saint Joseph Academy has been named a Gold Member for its paper retrieval and recycling.

Currently, Saint Joseph Academy ranks in the top 700 Paper Retriever participants in the United States from over twenty-one thousand participating retrievers across the country.

Credit for this amazing accomplishment must go to senior Katherine Colborn the leader of the ECOS Recycling Team.”

Gold Member Status gives the Saint Joseph Academy Community priority pick-up service for its containers as well as other perks in the Paper Retriever program. “The success of this program is because of the students, parents, neighbors, faculty and staff who have brought their recyclables to Saint Joseph Academy,” said Katherine.

The Congregation of St. Joseph has inspired many of their ministries, including the ECOS club at SJA with their promise to strengthen, heal and renew the face of the earth.

Great Job!

Every year, “Paws for Pride” is the ultimate demonstration of spirit and SJA pride. Throughout the school year, each class accumulates points by participating in service events and raising money.

The winning class is determined by calculating year long points and spirit day activity points.

This year’s celebration integrated the festivities and focused on three distinct areas: prayer, peace and pride. It began with “Paws for Prayer” which gave students, faculty and staff the opportunity to reflect and pray as a group throughout the day for causes close to them.

“Paws for Peace” followed with an Open House for family and friends to see the students decorations and share the pride.

Laughter and spirit filled the air as everyone cheered at the faculty/ student volleyball game, sang karaoke and showed off the school hallways decorated in their class colors. Blue, red, yellow and green covered just about every square inch, each hall having its own theme. Freshman Maggie Bishop ’13 remarked “This is so much fun, I love it here!” The evening was also dedicated to completing the school’s $5,000 commitment to “Pennies for Peace,” an organization founded by Greg Mortenson, author of Three Cups of Tea, to build schools in Pakistan and Afghanistan. And they met their goal!

Paws for Pride culminates in a day of endless cheering and friendly, competitive games. Students gathered in the Academy Center covered in their class colors ready to rally. Student Council Moderator Jill Satanek Garlock ’92 said, “It is such an exciting day here at SJA. The girls’ enthusiasm is infectious!

It’s such a joy to see them all celebrating SJA, each other, and another year… the last for our seniors!”

This year, the sophomores upset the juniors and seniors by taking the Paws for Pride competition with a win! Way to go, Class of 2012!

Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE Summer 2010

7

Technology Finds Roommates from Sister Schools When senior Emily Frost ’10 was looking for a roommate at Vanderbilt, she began her search on Facebook. Coincidently, Lucie Calderon, a senior at our sister school St. Joseph’s Academy in Baton Rouge, Louisana, decided to join the Vanderbilt Roommate Search group on Facebook. They were about to prove the adage, “It’s a small world.” Both girls will be rooming together this fall, but their connection began last school year.

Last August, Saint Joseph Academy in Cleveland, hosted Greg Mortenson, internationally Emily Frost ’10 SJA Cleveland acclaimed author of Three Cups of Tea, to share the story of his humanitarian efforts to build schools in Pakistan and Afghanistan. They invited the St. Joseph’s Academy Baton Rouge community to share the opportunity to hear Mortenson via a web-based live stream.

The student bodies of both schools had read Three Cups of Tea over the summer, making the collaboration a natural effort. Following the live stream, student council executive board members from both schools shared their impressions via a Skype session. Emily Frost, a member of the SJA-Cleveland student council, and Lucie Calderon, who served as student body vice president for SJA-Baton Rouge were part of the Skype conversation. Fast forward to springtime, when Calderon was accepted to Vanderbilt and decided to check out the Roommate Search group. “While browsing through all the girls’ surveys, I saw that Emily went to Saint Joseph Academy,” Calderon said. “A little confused, I clicked on her name to realize that she went

Summer Camps at SJA Sizzle This summer SJA hosted a variety of camps for girls and boys. Third graders through ninth graders had an opportunity to perfect their skills and learn from SJA coaches, students and staff or even learn a new hobby. Camps included nearly every sport plus camps on Broadway theater, Stagecraft, Digital Fashion Design and much more!

Many students from all over the area took part in all the camps. Thank you to all of those who participated and especially all who helped to make this a wonderful experience for the campers!

Summer camp assistant Alex Mills ‘13 poses with her new friends from volleyball camp.

8

Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE Summer 2010

to Saint Joseph Academy in Cleveland and, even more surprising, that I was already friends with her on Facebook. Turns out I had friended her after our two student council executive boards had Skyped following Greg Mortenson’s speech.”

Ironically, the first conversation the girls had on Facebook was about Three Cups of Tea. From there, the talk turned to college roommates, “and we decided that it would be a lot of fun if we could room together,” Calderon said. “I love that we both went to each other’s sister school, and I definitely feel like we are connected through the ideals of our high school educations and, of course, Three Cups of Tea.” Frost agreed. “Regardless of the geographic location of our schools, I think both of them foster the same values and sense of community, and it is comforting to know that I share this bond with a future friend,” she said. “The use of technology was integral to us becoming roommates. I would never have had the opportunity to come in to contact with Lucie in the first place without it, let alone end up with her as my roommate.”

Lucie Calderon ’10 SJA Batan Rouge Academy President Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis ’71 remarked. “ When I first heard of this connection because of last year’s visit, I thought how appropriate to come together because of the CSJ connection. I hope that this is the first of many.”

So SJA Cleveland and SJA Baton Rouge are both sending the charism of the Congregation of St. Joseph to Nashville, TN this fall.

And the required reading for incoming freshman? You guessed it Three Cups of Tea.

Spirituality The “Golden Girls” of the West Side Catholic Center

A

fter graduating from Saint Joseph Academy over 50 years ago Judy Nicolay McLaughlin ’59, Judy Lyall FoleyGawronski ’59, Rose Kerrigan Eyerman ’57 and Shirley Kerrigan Libby ’59 have never forgotten the call for service to the “dear neighbor” instilled in them by the Sisters of the Congregation of St. Joseph. For the past 30 years this group meets weekly at the West Side Catholic Center to prepare lunch and serve in other ministries at WSCC. This group of friends with big hearts, smiles and helping hands have served the clients of the WSCC with love and care. For their service they were recently awarded the Dorthy Day Humanitarian Award from the West Side Catholic Center.

It all began in the late 1980’s, while serving on the WSCC Board Judy McLaughlin invited Judy Foley-Gawronski to also join the Board. Eventually, they asked Rose Eyerman and Shirley Libbey to assist in volunteering (Rose and Shirley are sisters).

Early on, they watched the children in the childcare room and served the folks coming in for clothing and household goods. After several years, they were “promoted” to kitchen duty!

“When we were in school at Saint Joe’s, we were chums who watched American Bandstand after school, “We were Best Friends Forever! Today we are all grandmas with busy schedules but we

Left to Right: The Golden Girls of the West Side Catholic Center, Shirley Kerrigan Libby ’59, Judy Lyall Foley Gawronski ’59, Rose Kerrigan Eyerman ’57, and Judy Nicolay McLaughlin ’59.

always make time for our Wednesday mornings on West 32nd Street, It’s our second home,” said McLaughlin. “There is a feeling of joy and sounds of laughter that can be heard each week at the noon meal on Wednesday while being prepared by four Golden Girls with hearts of gold and hands that help,” said Development Director, Susan Ertle.

Congratulations to Our Jubilarians 70 Years

Sister Victoria McQuaid, CSJ ’39 (formerly Sister Mary Victoria) Sister Dolores Moyer, CSJ (formerly Sister M. Rosarie) Served as Libarian at SJA 1972-1974 Back row, from left to right: Sisters Genevieve O’Malley, CSJ, Adele Golden, CSJ, Karen Lyons, CSJ ’59, Antoinette Campanella, CSJ ’44, Mary Frances Harrington, CSJ, Joan Lang, CSJ, Dolores Moyer, CSJ, and Marietta Starrie, CSJ ’49. Seated, from left to right, Sisters Victoria McQuaid, CSJ ’39, Teresa Margaret Bost, CSJ ’49, and Donna Rock, CSJ. Not pictured: Sisters Catherine Pinkerton, CSJ ’39, Agnes Schreiber, CSJ ’49, and Barbara Jean Sever, OSU ’64.

Sister Catherine Pinkerton, CSJ ’39 (formerly Sister Mary Pius) Taught at SJA 1957-67, and served as Principal from 1967-1973

60 Years

Sister Teresa Margaret Bost, CSJ ’49 Sister Antoinette Campanella, CSJ ’44 (formerly Sister Concetta) Prayer and Presence Ministry at SJA Sister Adele Golden, CSJ Sister Mary Frances Harrington, CSJ (formerly Sister Kathleen Marie)

Sister Genevieve O’Malley, CSJ Served at SJA 1960-1965 Sister Donna Rock, CSJ (formerly Sister Florita) Sister Agnes Schreiber, CSJ ’49 (formerly Sister Mary Martin) Currently a Library Aide at SJA Sister Marietta Starrie, CSJ ’49 Taught at Nazareth Academy 1958-1959 Taught at SJA from 1959-1968

50 Years

Sister Karen Lyons, CSJ ’59 (formerly Sister Mary Rita) Taught at Nazareth Academy 1964-1968, taught at SJA from 1968-1973, served as assistant principal at SJA from 1973-1979, served as a counselor at SJA from 1996-2009

25 Years

Sister Barbara Jean Sever, OSU ’64 Sister Joan Lang, CSJ (formerly Sister Mary Julie Anne, SND) Taught at SJA 1974-1982 Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE Summer 2010

9

Sports SPRING

Jaguars Rugby Wins State Championship!

T

he Jaguar Rugby team continues to be a force to be reckoned with among the Midwest girls high school Rugby community. The team topped off the season by winning the state Rugby Championship at Kent State University by beating reining state champs Lakewood High School 25-14. Saint Joseph Academy Athletic Director Jennie Amodio said. “This is the first state championship for any sport at Saint Joseph Academy, and we’re so proud of our girls and their coaches.” In addition to winning the state title, Coach Jaime Barnes Cleary was named “Coach of the Year” and senior Ashley Serrano was named “Most Valuable Player.”

Congratulations to you all!

With only four years into its inception, the Jaguars ended official league play with an outstanding 5-1 record! SJA Rugby

traveled to the Midwest Championship in Carmel, Indiana and managed to lock in a well deserved 3rd place finish.

Seven seniors who began with the team were instrumental in their continued improvement over the past four seasons.

Becca Armbruster ’10, Cristyn Ebenger ’10, Holly Lovey ’10, Rachele Morino ’10, Sarah Roman ’10, Bridget VanDenHaute ’10, and Lauren Tiberi-Warner ’10. They later were joined by seniors Ashley Serrano ’10, Marilynn Serrano ’10, and Mary Jo Reddy ’10. Bridget VanDenHaute remarked, “This has been such a great experience, to build a team from the ground up and win a state championship in four years is outstanding!”

The rugby team was impressive both on and off the field. This year the team came together to organize a charity “Prom Dress Rugby” tournament. In the spirit of the

Mary Jo Reddy ’10 tries to break away and score.

event, athletes were required to play rugby in dresses and cleats, with the coaches and referees sporting suits to complement the players. Proceeds benefitted the Lakewood Christian Service Center Food Pantry. The team hopes to make “Prom Dress Rugby” an annual event.

With a very strong rookie class this year, the team appears to be set up for a higher level of success for the years to come. We look forward to another exciting season ahead!

Congratulations to the SJA Rugby Varsity and JV Teams (pictured) !Coaches: Second Row, Far Left, Kathleen Kress ’01, Far Right, Head Coach Jaime Barnes Cleary. (Not pictured: Sara Leary)

10

Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE Summer 2010

Varsity Fast Pitch Softball Had a Home Run Season!

Track and Field Set Records!

2010 was an exciting season for Varsity Fast Pitch Softball. The team’s consistent energy and enthusiasm led to their record of 10-11 with some of the season’s greatest victories and four losses by only one run. It kicked off with an inspiring 4-2 victory at Avon Lake in which the Jaguar defense thwarted several Shoregirl rallies.

It was SJA’s first win against the perennial power.

There were several bright spots throughout the season despite the team battling several injuries.

They finished third in Louisville, Kentucky over spring break, had a 7-0 win over Westlake on Senior Night and took a big 8-6 win at Magnificat! Their dedication and effort served them well as SJA also won in the first round sectional play for two consecutive years.

Maddy Paulett ’10 The team’s leading hitter, Maddy Paulett ’10 and Nikki Carpenter ’11 were named Honorable Mention All District by the PD and Sun News. Pitchers Kayla DeCore ’11, Maura McGinty ’12 and Melyssa Moenich ’11 were solid and dependable all season. Maddy was a four-year varsity player.

The Jaguars are already looking ahead to next year’s season with ten players returning to the team. Finally, congratulations to Emily Polk ’10, Kaitlyn Plogger ’11 and Maura McGinty ’12 who were named Academic All-Americans by the National Fast pitch Coaches Association for the 2009 school year. These ladies maintained a 3.5+ GPA while in season.

The Track and Field season was filled with winning races and purple pride. Highlighting the season was the Jaguars’ third place finish at the May district meet. Senior distance runner Gabby Kreuz qualified for the regional championship meet in all four of her events (800m, 4 x 200m, 4 x 400m, 4 x 800m), and senior Julie DeLong, qualified in all three of her events (400m, 4 x 200m, 4 x 400m). Also qualifying to the regional meet in multiple events was junior Megan Seaman (400m, 4 x 400m), sophomore Celine Mangan (4 x 400m, 4 x 800m), and freshman Brenna McGrath (4 x 100m, 4 x 200m). During the season, seven indoor and three outdoor school records were set, highlighted by all-state triple jumper Megan

New Basketball Coach Named Athletic Director Jennie Amodio announced that Maggie Steadley will be the new head basketball coach at Saint Joseph Academy. In her announcement Ms. Amodio said, “We are very excited to have Maggie come to Saint Joseph Academy and join our coaching staff. Her coaching style, enthusiasm and love of the game will bring our basketball program to the next level.”

Ms. Steadley was the head coach of North Olmsted High School girls’ varsity basketball team and was an assistant basketball coach at Notre Dame College. She played college basketball at St. Francis College in New York City, a Division One NCAA school and was the first freshman to serve as team captain. She completed her collegiate career at Notre Dame College in Cleveland serving as team captain and was honored as the all-time single season assist leader.

Coach Steadley spoke about her appointment saying, “I am so excited to come to Saint Joseph Academy. It is an amazing opportunity. My coaching style is different, more up-tempo. I believe that the girls will enjoy it. I think that we will be competitive and that the Jaguars will make a name for themselves this coming season.”

Gabby Kreuz ’10 sprints in the second leg of the 4x400.

Seaman’s 8th place finish at the Ohio Indoor State Championships. The outdoor season was highlighted by Julie DeLong in the 400m with a time of 59.47, senior Alexis Lees in the Pole Vault with a jump of 10’0”, as well as the team of Megan Seaman, Celine Mangan, Gabby Kreuz, and Julie DeLong in the 4 x 400m relay with a time of 4:04.52.

Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE Summer 2010

11

Commencement 2010 O

ld traditions blend with new ones as the class of 2010 put their stamp on graduation activities. From prom night to Commencement, the class of 2010 showed a their love and commitment as daughters of Saint Joseph Academy. For the past few years many seniors along with their dates, parents and friends gather at SJA for prom pictures. The girls dressed in their finery posed for photos on the front steps and by the statue of St. Joseph.

The Senior Parade was the final day of school for seniors who decorated cars, bikes parading from Kamm’s Plaza to the Academy.

They were greeted by cheering throngs of stuendts and faculty lining the drive and cheering as they arrive.

Tree Night and the Baccalaureate Mass were held on a beautiful May evening. The almost graduates in their caps and gowns processed to the circle to ceremonially plant their tree – signifying their roots here at the Academy, then celebrated Mass with family and friends.The following day the faculty, staff, students and alumnae attended the farewell Mass and Alumnae Induction at Our Lady of Angels church.

The traditional “Walk of the Roses” has been the culmination of graduation festivities at Saint Joseph Academy since the school began using Our Lady of Angels for commencement. This annual procession of graduates carrying their bouquets of red roses down Rocky River Drive fills the street with cheering family, friends and neighbors. This year was no different for the Class of 2010.

This year’s Commencement speaker, Dr. Linda Eisenmann Ph.D., is a graduate of the Class of 1970 from Nazareth Academy.

Dr. Eisenmann is currently the Provost of Wheaton College in Norton Massachusetts. Previously, she served as the Dean of Arts & Sciences at John Carroll University. She is also a former member of the SJA Board of Directors. In her talk, she reminded the graduates, “You are part of a 120 year legacy of believing in young women. The Sisters who ran Saint Joseph Academy, the parents who sacrificed to send their daughters, and the girls who made use of their education – in the face of those who doubted women’s intelligence, their capacities, and their futures – made choices so that your attendance today can simply be taken for granted and your graduation is a next step toward a limitless future.”

“Because of your privilege, you have a responsibility to this school and your families, and perhaps even to those generations of young women before you, to prepare for life, to strive for integrity, and to seek justice.” - Linda Eisenmann Ph.D., N ’70 12

Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE Summer 2010

College Acceptances Class of 2010

Amanda Drapac-Novotny

Valedictorian and Phi Beta Kappa Attended Saint Angela Merici and Lewis F. Mayer Middle School Daughter of Theresa Waltos Novotny ’85 College Acceptances Canisius College, Creighton University, Georgetown University, Loyola University Chicago, Marquette University, The Ohio State University, Ohio University, St. Louis University, and the University of Notre Dame.

Amanda will be attending St. Louis University this fall majoring in Investigative and Medical Sciences.

Emily Polk Salutatorian Lakewood Catholic Academy (member of the first graduating class) and St. James School Daughter of John and Laura Day Polk ’74 College Acceptances Carnegie Mellon University, Columbia University, Cornell University, University of Dayton, Johns Hopkins University, Northwestern University, The Ohio State University, Purdue University, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, University of Dayton, University of Maryland, College Park, and Vanderbilt University.

Emily will be attending Cornell University this fall majoring in Chemical Engineering.

Allegheny College Ashland University Baldwin-Wallace College Belmont University Binghamton University Bluffton University Boston University Bowling Green State University Canisius College Carnegie Mellon University Case Western Reserve University Chaminade University of Honolulu Clemson University Cleveland State University Coastal Carolina University College of William and Mary Columbia College Columbia University Cornell University Creighton University Cuyahoga Community College Denison University DePaul University Drexel University Duquesne University Eastern Michigan University Fordham University Franciscan University of Steubenville Gannon University Georgetown University High Point University Hiram College Hofstra University Holy Cross College Iona College Jacksonville University John Carroll University Johns Hopkins University Kent State University Lake Erie College Lawrence University Lipscomb University Lorain County Community College Loyola University Chicago Loyola University Maryland Loyola University New Orleans Marietta College Marquette University Mercyhurst College Miami University, Oxford Michigan State University Middle Tennessee State

University Mount Union College Muskingum University New York University Niagara University Northeastern University Northwestern University Notre Dame College of Ohio Oberlin College Ohio Northern University Ohio University Ohio Wesleyan University Otterbein College Pennsylvania State University Point Park University Purdue University Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology Saint Louis University Saint Mary’s College University of San Diego School of the Art Institute of Chicago Seton Hall University St. Bonaventure University St. Catherine University Stonehill College SUNY College at Fredonia The Catholic University of America The College of Wooster The University of Akron The University of Findlay The King’s College The University of Northwestern Ohio The Ohio State University Tiffin University Tulane University University of Chicago University of Cincinnati University of Dayton University of Illinois University of Kentucky University of Maryland University of Notre Dame University of Pittsburgh University of Toledo Urbana University Ursuline College Vanderbilt University Wagner College Walsh University Wright State University Xavier University

Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE Summer 2010

13

Alumnae Spotlight:

Women in Media

Lauren Ina ’84 Like any good newsperson, Lauren Ina knew her facts: she never wanted a 9 to 5 job.

Today, the Emmy-award winning producer from NBC News in Burbank, California, travels the world covering a range of issues for children in developing countries.

She began her journalism career at The Washington Post, but Lauren found the collaborative nature of television news more appealing. As a producer, she determines a story’s framework, directs the filming and interviews, and writes and edits the finished product.

She started at Dateline in 1995, producing stories about the O.J. Simpson trials, the Columbine tragedy and the death of Princess Diana. She later expanded her duties to include The Today Show and NBC Nightly News.

One story that proved life-changing was the rescue of a man trapped in an underwater cave in Hawaii. Lauren fell in love with the people and culture on Oahu’s North Shore. Many more stories followed because of her island contacts. She and her husband, pediatric cardiologist

Dr. Mark Sklansky, married there in 2001.

They return every year with their 6-year old son Gabriel. “Hawaii feels more like home to us than anywhere else,” she says.

Miss Eileen Teare’s mentorship when Lauren was editor of the SJA News, solidified Lauren’s interest in media. She credits the atmosphere and curriculum at SJA and phenomenal teachers like Mary Ann Fischer ’66 for fostering her selfconfidence and expanding her world of possibilities of what she could accomplish as a woman. She cites “achievement” as one word to describe her SJA experience. “The underlying current was that hard work will pay off,” she recalls.

Curiosity and a love of learning new things have also shaped her life. After accompanying her husband on a trip to South America as part of Children’s Lifeline International, a charity that provides medical and surgical assistance to underprivileged children, Lauren began producing documentaries about its medical missions. Today she serves on its board of directors.

Katie Kramer ’96 It’s not every day you get to talk to CEOs, celebrities or Nobel Prize winners – unless you’re Katie Kramer.

For the last three years, the New York-based TV producer has worked at CNBC producing the weekly show The Wall Street Journal Report with Maria Bartiromo. Prior to that, she worked as a freelance producer in documentary and lifestyle television, creating everything from PBS history specials to cooking shows.

While her primary responsibility at CNBC is booking guests to be interviewed, Katie also researches stories and writes scripts. “Every day I get to talk to smart people about the subjects they know best,” she says. “It’s a great gift just to have a conversation with these people, and it’s a privilege to share what they know so viewers can better understand the world.”

Adaptability and a natural curiosity have served Katie well.

She regularly encounters unfamiliar subject matter with its own terminology and nuances, and she must grasp it quickly. It’s just one area where her SJA education has been especially helpful.

Having attended a school filled with women leaders, Katie learned

14

Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE Summer 2010

Maria Gigante ’93

the importance of developing your own mind, having your own voice, and using them both. With a job that involves a lot of problem solving, being able to think for herself has proven an invaluable skill.

Katie also credits the CSJs and SJA staff for teaching by example how to be collaborative, communicative and respectful. In fact, whenever she’s told she doesn’t fit the image of the stereotypical New Yorker because she is “too nice,” she jokingly responds that whereas some were raised by wolves, she was raised by nuns.

She affectionately remembers experimenting with cameras in Mr. Mike Kunikis’ Radio Club and transitioning to televised newscasts for morning announcements. She also admits to habitually reverting back to Mrs. Tingler’s freshmen English lessons in essay structure whenever she’s trying to convey complicated information to an audience.

One day Katie would love to develop and supervise her own show. (Watch out, Oprah!)

Maria Gigante was not a prodigious child who made movies at seven. Rather, her love for film began in high school when Mr. Mike Kunikis introduced her class to the Cedar Lee Theater for a school project. She began honing her writing, directing and performing skills in theatrical productions and skits at SJA and operated a camera for the first time in Radio Club.

Maria took film and screenwriting classes at Ohio University and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in English. While there, she became involved in the Athens International Film Festival and schooled herself in film history.

After college, Maria returned home and worked for five years in the arts. She immersed herself in the local film community, volunteering and watching movies at the Cleveland International Film Festival as well as the Cleveland Institute of Art’s Cinematheque. Ultimately, she went to Columbia College Chicago for a master’s degree in film and video. As her thesis, Maria made a short film called “Girls Room,” which won Best of the Fest and the Audience Award at Columbia’s 2007 Big Screen Film Festival. It has screened at more than 50 film festivals around the world, including the renowned Cannes Film Festival.

Today Maria is a freelance producer, director and writer of documentaries, narrative videos, and web spots for companies and non-profits. “I especially enjoy working with different people to bring ideas to life,” she says of her job. The camaraderie she experienced at SJA influenced the way she works with people— particularly other women. She can often spot a woman who went to an all-girls school, and the working relationship is always more sisterly than competitive.

Traveling is another perk. Maria has been to Los Angeles, New York City, Kansas, Raleigh, Dallas, Seattle, Berlin and Tokyo. Since graduating from college in 1997, she’s lived in ten different places in five cities.

She currently resides in Evanston, Illinois, with her husband, Jason Frederick, a silk screen printmaker and musician. Her next big production debuts in December: the birth of her first child.

Our Alumnae Lead Amazing Lives!

We are always looking for interesting careers to spotlight. Please email maf@sja1890.org and tell us about your job. Thanks!

Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE Summer 2010

15

Development The Annual Fund: Count me in!

The Annual Fund keeps gaining momentum year after year.

Again, we surpassed the previous year’s total, and brought in over $268,000. These gifts support our greatest needs of daily operations, provide vital tuition assistance, and enhance every facet of student life. On behalf of our students and their families, we are grateful for your support!

In these challenging times for Catholic education, your continued investment will make a difference and keep Saint

Joseph Academy strong for current and future students. But, we need more alumnae and friends to sustain us. Last year, less than 15% of our alumnae made a charitable gift to SJA. Every gift counts!

Please make a contribution of any amount for the upcoming Annual Fund, and look for more information coming soon. We want to increase participation and raise over $300,000. We will reach our goals with your help!

Giving Back to SJA Mary Lou Vrnak Stricklin ’61 is all about giving and volunteering. From her earliest memories, volunteering was a family tradition.

Both her parents, Fred Vrnak and Alice M. Vrnak ’36 were avid volunteers in the community and the parish at Our Lady of Angels.

The importance of giving your time, your talents and treasure to charitable causes and organizations became a solid thread in her life. “I recall helping my mother and grandmother with volunteer projects as a child and later as a young woman, expected to be active in my own volunteering,” she said. “My sage Irish grandmother would say that ‘Giving to others is like throwing bread on the water….it always comes back to you in one way or another.’”

Actively giving and volunteering in young adulthood and later as a professional nurse and married mother of two girls was expressed in many ways, largely through participation in community organizations and health services such as the Free Clinic, Saint Patrick Church, Saint Joseph Academy and a variety of mental health and youth services. Mary Lou’s grown daughters will attest to the expectation that they be volunteers as well. From fourth grade on, at the end of the school year, both girls had 16

to select a volunteer activity for the summer.

Today, both young women hold positions as board members for several nonprofit organizations. “It is a living tradition, I am so proud to say….and I expect that the grandchildren will carry it forward,” shared Mary Lou Mary Lou Stricklin is a highly respected health professional who has earned numerous awards for her work as an executive, practitioner and educator. She is the retired President/CEO of Visiting Nurse Association of Ohio and is now principal of Stricklin Consulting Services for nonprofit organizations and Healing Arts, a service dedicated to body, mind and spirit health.

Today, she fulfills many roles as a holistic health practitioner and educator and is affiliated with CSU School of Nursing and Continuing Education, Fairview Hospital Wellness Center, Optimal Wellness Center and other organizations. She is an Affiliate with River’s Edge at Saint Joseph’s Center.

Mary Lou continues her volunteer work, serving as Director and Officer and contributor to numerous nonprofit organizations, such as Sisters of Charity Foundation, The ALS Association, Cleveland Pops Orchestra, GroundWorks Dance Theater and Fellowships of the Spirit.

She served as director and board chair for Saint Joseph Academy for two separate 6-year terms and co-chaired “The Campaign

Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE Summer 2010

for Saint Joseph Academy” that raised over $4 million for a continuing endowment to help young women have the same opportunity of a Saint Joseph Academy education as she had. “I continue to believe strongly in the mission and vision of SJA and have a true passion for the education of young women.” She emphasized that Saint Joseph Academy contributed to the development of young women throughout the Cleveland area and that these women now are contributors to their respective communities and professions. “I personally know many Saint Joseph Academy women who in adulthood have achieved greatness in notable ways and are good mothers, good citizens, and solid contributors to their church and their community.”

“Giving back to Saint Joseph Academy is another ‘living tradition’ that needs to be strongly supported by those of us who know so well the SJA mission and vision. Our society has never had so great a need for the graduates of SJA!” Mary Lou has provided for Saint Joseph Academy in her estate planning, making her a member of the Fontbonne Legacy Society.

If you are considering a legacy gift to Saint Joseph Academy and are unsure how begin the process, contact Ann Quinn Doran ‘48, Planned Giving Specialist at 216.251.6788 x254 or mail to: adoran@ sja1890.org

Alumnae News

Scholarships established for SJA graduates

Class of 1950 Ride of the Roses

T

his year the graduates of the Class of 2010 were joined by 25 members of the Class of 1950 who had a “Ride of the Roses” in Lolly the Trolley, and led the graduates down the drive to commencement.

The Class of 1950 along with the Class of 1949, did not make the traditional walk because the Bishop requested that all Catholic high schools hold their commencement ceremonies at the newly renovated cathedral. “To celebrate the 60th anniversary of their commencement, we thought it would be fitting to have them lead the procession,” said Saint Joseph Academy President Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis, who herself made the walk in 1971.

One member of the Class of 1950 who participated also has a special connection to the Class of 2010, Bride Gallagher Sweeney ’50 shared the evening with her granddaughter, Bride Sweeney ’10 daughter of Kate Dempsey Sweeney ’81. “This is her commencement, I’m just along for the ride! I am so thrilled that after 60 years I am still around to be a part of my granddaughter’s graduation here at Saint Joseph Academy!” said Bride Sweeney ’50.

Spring Luncheon raises $7,000 for students This year’s spring luncheon at Westwood Country Club was bigger and better than ever! Attendance was an all-time high of over 250 people! Guests took chances on fabulous raffle prizes, enjoyed a delicious lunch and were entertained by the sensational SJA a cappella choir Cecilia’s Song. Guests received a student’s perspective of her four years at SJA from Gabriella Kreuz ’10 and got the latest news on the Academy from President Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis ’71. There was a lot of excitement and cheering as tickets were drawn for the many wonderful baskets put together by the committee. The proceeds from this event, a record high $7000, will support current SJA student initiatives. Thanks to all who attended and all who helped make the day special. Plan now to attend next year on May 11, 2011 and bring a friend!

Mary O’Brien Hayes ’46 and Barbara Gorbett Keefe ’46 enjoy the luncheon.

This spring, Sr. Jeanne Knoerle, SP ’45 was honored by Saint Joseph Academy as recipient of the Distinguished Alumnae Award. At the induction ceremony, Sr. Jeanne announced that Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College has set up a new scholarship and will award an $11,000 renewable scholarship for any young woman who graduates from SJA and is accepted and enrolled at the college.

The board of Trustees of the college established the scholarship in honor of Sr. Jeanne’s service to Saint Mary-of-theWoods College.

After graduating from SJA, Sr. Jeanne attended Terre Haute, Indiana based Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (SMW), the country’s oldest Catholic liberal arts college for women, where she graduated in 1949. She entered the Congregation of the Sisters of Providence and has spent her entire working life either teaching or in administration at SMW. In 1968, Sister Jeanne assumed the presidency of SMW, a post she held for 15 years. In 1993, Sister Jeanne joined The Lilly Endowment in Indianapolis, overseeing millions of dollars in grants to colleges, theological schools, dioceses and social service agencies.

A special thanks to Linda Kane ’75, who set up a scholarship with a preference for SJA graduates at Nance College of Business at Cleveland State University. Linda is a CPA and a 1979 graduate of the Nance College of Business at Cleveland State University with a Bachelor in Business Administration degree in accounting.

Currently, Linda is the Senior Vice President, Chief Accounting and Administrative Officer of Forest City Enterprises, Inc. She joined Forest City in 1990 as financial manager for Forest City’s Residential Group, became asset manager for Forest City’s Commercial Group in 1992 and was Forest City’s corporate controller from 1995 to 2007. Linda is a 2008 recipient of the Distinguished Alumnae Award at Saint Joseph Academy. She also serves on the SJA Board of Directors.

Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE Summer 2010

17

Alumnae News

Celebrating Service to Saint Joseph Academy

Mary Ann Fischer ‘66

Maureen Fallon Adler ’79

Three incredible alumnae were recognized for their service to Saint Joseph Academy at the all school honors Convocation held at the end of the school year.

Mary Ann Fischer ‘66 is celebrating both a personal anniversary and a historical marker in the life of the Academy this year.

She has worked there for 40 years, which makes her the longest running lay employee ever at the Academy.

Mary Ann began teaching math at the Academy in 1970, which she did for 31 years.

For the past nine years, Mary Ann has served as Alumnae Director at the Academy, a position she says she loves. “It has been an incredible experience to teach such fine

Cathy Lanning Knittel ’67

young women, and now to relate with them in a different role as Alumnae Director.”

She was presented with a glass bowl designed by alumna glass artist, Nancy Adler-Kearns ’77 and a Waterford crystal ornament.

“What a blessing for me to work at SJA for 40 years,” she said. “I have worked with such outstanding people who remain lifelong friends. SJA will always have a place in my heart!” Congratulations, Mary Ann! In addition, two faculty members were honored for their positive influence on everyone at SJA by living their lives in a way that exemplifies the mission of the Academy.

The Sister Edith Franz Award recognizes

a faculty member whose actions have dramatically influenced the life of the Saint Joseph Academy community in a positive way during the academic year. This year the Sr. Edith Franz Award went to Maureen Fallon Adler ’79.

Maureen is the definition of living the mission. Whether it’s organizing a spirit day, playing flag football with the seniors, leading retreats, chaperoning school dances – Maureen is there, and excited about the adventure.

The Sursum Corda Award is presented annually through the benevolence of Mr. and Mrs. Gerald F. Schroer and family to a member of the faculty who lives a life that exemplifies the Saint Joseph Academy mission and the charism of the Congregation of St. Joseph. This year’s award was presented to Cathy Lanning Knittel ’67.

Cathy is just such a person. With over 30 years of service to the Academy, Cathy continues to be involved. This year, Cathy helped arrange and organize liturgies as a member of the Christian Outreach and Religious Education (C.O.R.E.) group.

She helped with the organization of all of the graduation activities and continues to work with Catholic Schools for Peace and Justice (C.P.S.J.). Cathy was named as a Distinguished Alumnae of SJA this past spring.

Get Connected With Our Online Community for Alumnae Want to re-connect with former classmates? Or

for other members to see, and you will be able to

up as a new user. If you have already registered,

maybe, when traveling, you have wondered if

search for other alumnae by name, by class, or by

please check to make sure the information about

any alumnae live in the area you are visiting?

geographic region. This will be an important tool in

you is current.

You can find this information and more in the

staying in touch with other alumnae since there are

online community for Alumnae of Saint Joseph

no plans to do another print Alumnae Directory. It’s

you can submit news about yourself, update your

Academy, Nazareth Academy and Saint

easy to register. Just go to the SJA website at www.

contact information, and even request prayers.

Therese Academy. Register Now! You can post

sja1890.org and click on Register in the upper right

whatever information you choose to display

corner of the Home page. When prompted, sign

While you are at the SJA website notice that

We hope to hear from you!

Register now at www.sja1890.org 18

Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE Summer 2010

Memoriam In

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

Please remember in your prayers the following deceased alumnae.

Dorothy Anderson Emerson ’32 Ann McIntyre O’Brien ’32 Elizabeth Brennan ’36 Genevieve McManamon Keane ’36 Eileen Rattay Reese ’37 Gladys Daw Paskert ’43 Ruth McTigue Tilow ’43 Kathryn Harrison, CSJ ’44 Betty Ann Distefan Fergus ’47 Geraldine Ruth Farrell Hennessy ’48

Marilyn Grady Orlito T’43 on the death of her brother, John Grady.

Nancy Farrell Schupp ’45, Mary Angela Farrell Mainwaring ’46, and Maureen Farrell Campbell ’49 on the death of their sister, Geraldine Ruth Farrell Hennessy ’48.

Rosemary Bilskey ’48 on the death of her sister, H. Virginia Schlather.

Elizabeth Shober Thomas ’49 on the death of her husband, Everett Thomas.

Dorothy Orosz Dubnicka ’53 on the death of her husband, Richard Dubnicka.

Dorothy Distefan Klonk ’49 Elaine Hradek Fox ’50 Judith Tillman Moore ’52

Geraldine Sloan Markus ’53 and Jacqueline Sloan Luzius ’56 on the death of their mother, Helen Egger.

Gloria Tennant Marvin ’54 Rose Ryan Sammon ’55 Patricia Carroll Kelly ’57

Donna Emerson, CSJ ’54 and Diane Emerson Sisson ’60 on the death of their mother, Dorothy Anderson Emerson ’32.

Colleen Richards Barner ’60 Christine Slivka Weyand ’60 Mary Ann Hughes Dobson ’62 Monika Zellerhorst Stewart ’62 Nora Geist Schmeler N’66 Joanne Hartsel Hines ’68 Amy Burk LaMoreaux N’73 Nancy Mordarski Patton N’75

Remember SJA

When you are making funeral arrangements for yourself or a family member please consider having memorial donations to Saint Joseph Academy. Donations received go to student initiatives changing lives of our young women. Ask your Funeral Director if you have any questions. You may even want to add SJA and the class year of a loved one in their death notice. When an relative who is a graduate passes please call the alumnae office or email MAF@sja1890. Thank You.

Lynne Shields Filipic ’54 on the death of her mother, Josephine Shields.

Ann Hopkins Conway-Purcell ’54 on the death of her husband, Charles R. Purcell.

Cecilia Bajorek Friebel N’62 on the death of her husband, Walter Friebel, and on the death of her brother, Joseph Bajorek.

Coletta Kahl Mulloy ’64 and Margie Kahl Forshey ’65 on the death of their father, John Kahl, Sr. Christine Sansone ’64 and Mary Ann Sansone Paponetti ’67 on the death of their mother, Theresa Sansone.

Mary Haynish Adzema N’64, Julie Haynish Loretitsch N’66, and Kathie Haynish Zipp N’73 on the death of their mother, Dorothy Haynish.

Lynne Markis Malec ’65, Diane Markis Knight ’72, and Carol Markis ’81 on the death of their father, George Markis.

Cathryn Tusick Kavan ’66 on the death of her father, Joseph E. Tusick.

Gladys Osborne Smith ’66 on the death of her husband, William Smith.

Kathryn Lad ’68 on the death of her father, Robert A. Lad.

Yvonne “Penny” Klein Barbieri ’57 on the death of her mother, Marie Muraco.

Rita Frohwerk Muzzillo ’68 on the death of her mother, Virginia Frohwerk. Mrs. Frohwerk worked in the SJA Finance Office from 1973 to 1982.

Monica Daly Cirino ’58 on the death of her husband, Salvatore Cirino.

Karen Geist Bailey N’68 on the death of her sister, Nora Geist Schmeler N’66.

Catherine LaBianca-Johnson ’58 and Mary LaBianca-Pultz N’62 on the death of their mother, Mary LaBianca.

Marie Ricksecker Renner N’68, Margaret Ricksecker N’75, and Elizabeth Ricksecker N’80 on the death of their father, Grant Ricksecker.

Elaine Soeder Nemec ’58 and Mary Beth Soeder Hackenberg ’67 on the death of their sister, Karen Swietyniowski.

Theresa Polomsky Lyons N’61 on the death of her mother, Margaret Polomsky.

Nancy Kurgan Laich ’71 and Mary Kurgan Barron ’72 on the death of their father, John J. Kurgan.

Cheryl Solarz-McConnell ’71 on the death of her father, Frank Solarz.

Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE Summer 2010

19

Memoriam In

Donna Fergus Sell ’71, Michelle Fergus Drabik ’83, and Laureen Fergus Gardner ’88 on the death of their mother, Betty Ann Distefan Fergus ’47.

Catherine MacLean Lehota ’72 on the death of her father, John R. MacLean.

Maureen Galvin Steindler ’75 and Mary Kay Galvin Ross ’78 on the death of their brother, Patrick Galvin.

Ruth Ann Burk N’77 on the death of her sister, Amy Burk LaMoreaux N’73.

Beyonds Alumnae

1950s

The SJA Class of 1953 will hold their next class luncheon on November 11, 2010 at Mahle’s, 24945 Detroit Rd. in Westlake, at 1:00pm. Please contact Donna Smith McCafferty ’53 at 216-941-7298 or Pat Zak Roth ’53 at 330-721-0753 for reservations.

Anne Belovich Artl N’72 and Stephanie Belovich N’73 on the death of their father, Thomas Belovich.

Carol Fanara Jakubowski ’79, Rosemarie Fanara Jaeger ’82, and Annette Fanara Nahulak ’83 on the death of their father, Charles Fanara, Sr.

Betsy Reese Lambert ’73 on the death of her mother, Eileen Rattay Reese ’37.

Lynn Hiros Ritchie ’79 on the death of her father, Richard J. Hiros.

Donna Polk Wolff N’73, Karen Polk Green N’76, and Jeanne Polk N’79 on the death of their mother, Jeanette Polk.

Joan Vanek N’79 on the death of her father, Richard Vanek.

Sally Ann Harris Weiland ’57 recently celebrated her commitment as an IHM Associate with the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary. IHM Associates are men and women who have come to identify with the spirit, life, and mission of the IHM Sister.

Wendy Hahn Grzelewski ’80, Lisa Hahn Marshall ’84, and Jill Hahn ’88 on the death of their mother, Raellen Hahn.

The SJA Class of 1959 meets the last Friday of each month at 1:00pm at West Park Station (Kamm’s Corners).

Susan Biggins Mrozinski ’81 on the death of her mother, Angela Biggins.

Nancy Wilkes McCann ’59 recently left Forest City Enterprises to launch her own marketing and public relations firm, Nancy McCann LLC. She is also a leader in philanthropy. Nancy is the President of the John P. Murphy and Kulas Foundations, and she recently accepted the position of Vice Chairman of the Cleveland Orchestra’s Centennial Campaign.

Susan Klonk ’74 on th death of her mother, Dorothy Distefan Klonk ’49.

Linda Helderman Molnar ’74 and Mary Helderman Vavro ’84 on the death of their sister, Amy Helderman.

Anita Murray Ulman ’74, Colette Murray ’76, Maureen Murray ’78, and Mary Kay Murray ’81 on the death of their mother, Mary Ann Murray.

Mary Weishar ’74 and Eve Weishar ’75 on the death of their father, Fred Weishar.

Linda Mordarski Lingler N’74 and Dorothy Mordarski Battaglia N’78 on the death of their sister, Nancy Mordarski Patton N’75.

Lisa Tighe Kunstler ’82 on the death of her brother and Margaret Kilbane Kennelley ’74, Maureen Kilbane Scott ’76, Therese Kilbane ’79, and Sheila Kilbane Schulz ’81 on the death of their step-brother, Kevin Tighe.

Eileen Luna ’87 on the death of her mother, Virginia Luna.

Kerry Kelly ’88 on the death of her mother and Eleanor Jane Carroll ’37 on the death of her sister, Patricia Carroll Kelly ’57.

Eileen Baugh Biehl ’75, Therese Baugh Whitmore ’77, Kathryn Baugh Hofman ’79, and Mary Baugh Martin ’84 on the death of their father, Edward J. Baugh.

Memorial Service Program River’s Edge would like to offer you an opportunity to memorialize the life of a deceased loved one in our beautiful century old building that is imbued with the peace and tranquility of the Sisters of St. Joseph.

Please call 216-688-1111, x251 to set up a consultation.

20

Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE Summer 2010

Judy Nicolay McLaughlin ’59, Judy Lyall Foley-Gawronski ’59, Rosemary Kerrigan Eyerman ’57, and Shirley Kerrigan Libbey ’59 received the 2009 Dorothy Day Humanitarian Award for their more than 20 years of service at the West Side Catholic Center. The Dorothy Day Award is presented annually to volunteers who represent the spirit of Dorothy Day, especially a commitment to and love of Christ evidenced through community with concern and love for the materially disadvantaged. Read more about the “Golden Girls” on page 9.

1960s

Noreen O’Malley Hollo ’65 was recently featured in the Catholic Universe Bulletin’s Profile column and in the West Shore Sun Newspaper. Noreen is retiring from St. Bernadette School in Westlake after more than 30 years of service as a physical education teacher.

Chris Laszcz-Davis N’68 runs her own management consulting firm, The Environmental Quality Organization, LLC, which provides environmental, health, and safety services to clients both domestically and internationally. She is a KASRA (Kaiser Aluminum Salaried Retirees Association) Board Member and was appointed by the U.S. Department of Commerce as an Examiner for the National Baldrige Award. Chris is also a community service responder, is actively engaged in a number of professional organizations, and volunteers in the Orinda, California community where she and her husband of 33 years, Steve, currently reside.

Barbara Witt Cicerchi ’69 was recently named Best Teacher of Early Childhood Teachers by the Cleveland Association for the Education of Young Children at its annual awards. Barb is employed at Cuyahoga Community College West.

1970s

Kathleen Marsh ’70 has joined Merrick House as the Executive Director. Merrick House is a Settlement House neighborhood center located in Cleveland’s Tremont neighborhood. Kathleen previously worked for Catholic Charities and the American Red Cross after a successful early career in sales and marketing.

Linda Eisenmann N’70, a scholar of higher education and an experienced academic administrator, has been named the Provost of Wheaton College in Norton, Massachusetts. Linda was chosen because she is a distinguished scholar of the history of education, and she has a significant record of national service to the field of higher education.

Linda Koscso Johnson ’73 is in the midst of her dissertation research, funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, studying the college and non-college pathways taken by more than 84,000 graduates of the Dallas, Texas Independent School District from 1998 to 2009. Her goal is to discover predictive variables that will help to create interventions to promote educational equity for these students.

Linda’s work caps nearly thirty years of nonprofit leadership experience for her – the roots of which were planted in her years at Saint Joseph Academy.

1980s

Suzanne Huber Ferrara ’87 is a Vice President and Business Banking Sales Manager at PNC Bank. She manages a team of twelve business bankers who serve companies in Northeast Ohio. Suzanne plans to continue the development of the bank’s Women’s Business Initiative.

1990s

Erin Gannon ’99 married Brian Howard on May 22, 2010 at St. Patrick’s Church in West Park. Her sister, Megan Gannon ’96 served as maid of honor and her other two sisters, Bridget Gannon ’02 and Katie Gannon ’03, were bridesmaids.

2000s

Katherine Jakupca ’00 married Brian Marek on June 4, 2010. Her matron of honor was Amanda Marcinek-Zorko ’00. Her sister, Laura Jakupca-Carmack ’03, was an attendant. Katherine currently works at Third Federal Savings and Loan.

Erin Dunford ’03 married Anthony James Cox on June 26, 2010. Her maid of honor was Christina Vignale ’02. Other attendants included Jacqueline Gonzales ’03 and Kate Antoske ’01. Margaret Sweeney ’03 read at the church ceremony.

Anamarija Miljak ’04 married Joseph Mathecky on May 22, 2010.

Gillian Halusker ’06 recently graduated Magna Cum Laude from Xavier University.

Monica Laco ’06 recently graduated Magna Cum Laude from Xavier University.

Beth Dessoffy ’88 married Greg Jackson on March 20, 2010. She and her new husband now reside on a farm in Wisconsin.

Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE Summer 2010

21

The SJA

CubClub

Jeanne Gedra DeMonte ’99 & Roland DeMonte a daughter, Noelle Elaine, born February 24, 2010

Pattie Rossman Skrha ’84 & John Skrha a daughter, Carolyn Elizabeth, born April 30, 2010

Kelly Cool Dedic ’94 & Eric Dedic a daughter, Caitlyn Therese, born October 31, 2009

Megan Corrigan Estes ’01 & John Estes a son, James Clyde, born May 28, 2010

Laureen Fergus Gardner ’88 & Matthew Gardner a daughter, Bridget Rose, born May 10, 2010

Kristina Buckley Craig ’96 & Adam Craig a son, Michael Aaron, born March 2, 2010

Tiffany Jarus Koppenhofer ’01 & Eric Koppenhofer a son, Logan Christopher, born March 1, 2010

Stephanie Douglas Gargiulo ’88 & Gian Gargiulo a daughter, Mia Francesca, born May 19, 2010

Jennifer Volle Wawszkiewicz ’97 & Robert Wawszkiewicz a daughter, Leah Maeve, born May 22, 2010

Sara Volle Schneider ’01 & Ken Schneider a son, Connor Jakob, born May 3, 2010

Class of ’35 and ’40 Luncheon

Seated L to R: Isabel Joseph Thomas ’40, Eileen Gibson Rutt ’40, Elizabeth Roberts Laugel ’40,, Jeanne Carmody Hildebrandt ’40, Harriet Kolesar Gaymeau ’35, Dorothy Rose Evans ’40,, Mary English Yarosh ’40, and Mabel Sweeny ’40.

Standing: Jennie Mahall Mandley ’40, Margaret Mary Wagner Baxendale ’40, Estelle Smith Milligan ’40, Florence Laux Cocita ’40, Mary Elizabeth Barrett Mertzlufft ’40, Genevieve Galmbacher Kocab ’40, and Maryanne Havey Myers ’40.

22

Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE Summer 2010

1970

1965

1975

1985

1980

Grand Reunion 2010 1960

1955

Mark Your Calendars for Friday, October 8, Saturday, October 9, and Sunday, October 10, 2010.

1990

Friday night there will be a get together at SJA for the classes of 1995, 2000, and 2005.

Saturday night there will be a dinner for all SJA reunion classes ending in “5” or “0” at the Cleveland Yachting Club.

1995

Sunday there will be a brunch at SJA for the classes of 1935, 1940, 1945, 1950, 1955, and 1960 at 10:00am.

1950

At noon, there will be a Mass at the school for all the SJA reunion classes and their families, followed by light refreshments and Open House.

2000

Watch your mail for your Invitation or call the Alumnae Office at 216.251.6788 x245 or bhjort@sja1890.org.

1945

2005

S AV E T H E D A T E

Sursum Corda

Lift Up Your Hearts and Celebrate with Saint Joseph Academy.

You and your family are cordially invited to Mass and Open House to celebrate the

120th Anniversary of Saint Joseph Academy on Sunday, October 10, 2010 at Noon with Mass in the Academy Center followed by refreshments and an Open House

Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE Summer 2010

23

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

Open House October 24 2010, 1-4 p.m.

Saint Joseph Academy will hold their annual Open House for prospective students on Sunday, October 24, 2010 from 1pm until 4pm. If you have a daughter, granddaughter, friend or neighbor who is entering the 7th or 8th grade, bring them to the Academy. See why Saint Joseph Academy may be the right choice for them! For information visit our website at www.sja1890.org or call Mary Lou MacBride at 251.6788 x219.

2010 SJA Grand Reunion 0’s & 5’s

2010 Nazareth Academy Luncheon

Mark your calendars for Friday, October 8, Saturday, October 9, and Sunday, October 10, 2010. See inside back cover for more information.

The Nazareth Academy Luncheon will take place on Sunday, September 12, 2010 at La Centre in Westlake, a great chance to visit and re-connect with classmates and friends! Recognition will be given to attendees from the reunion classes of 1965, 1970, 1975, and 1980. Special recognition will be given to attendees from the class of 1960, the first class to celebrate a 50 year anniversary!

Local alumnae, watch your mail for your invitation. If you live out of town and would like to attend, please contact Betty Hjort at 216-251-6788 Ext. 245 or bhjort@sja1890.org. or check out our website at www.sja1890.org/alumnae

Celebrate the 120th Anniversary of Saint Joseph Academy Mark your calendars for Sunday, October 10, 2010 at Noon with Mass and an Open House. See inside back cover for more information.

2010 Saint Therese Luncheon The annual Saint Therese Academy Reunion Luncheon will be held on September 30, 2010 in the Board Room at Saint Joseph Academy.

The luncheon will be followed by Mass in the SJA Holy Family Chapel. Please watch your mail for an invitation to this special event!

24

2010 Mass for Deceased Alumnae On November 4, 2010, we will honor our beloved deceased alumnae at the annual Mass for Deceased Alumnae at 7:00pm in the Worship Space at River’s Edge (CSJ Motherhouse). All alumnae, as well as family and friends of those who died in the past year, are encouraged to attend the Mass and reception that will follow. Please watch for a special mailing in the fall to register for this event.

Register On-Line at www.sja1890.org/alumnae/alumnae events

Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE Summer 2010