Saint Joseph Academy Update - Fall 2014

Sharing a Tradition of Excellence with Alumnae, Parents and Friends • www.sja1890.org • Fall 2014

Happy 125th Birthday, SJA! SA I NT JO SE PH Saint Joseph Academy FALL 2014 1 1890 ACADEMY 2015

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

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

UPDATE is published by Saint Joseph Academy for alumnae, parents and friends. Contributions to this issue of UPDATE include: Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis ’71, Mary Ann Fischer ’66, Betty Hjort, Susan Condon Love ’76, Mickie Matheis, Laura McCarty ’07, Geoff Powers and Constance S. Sipple, CFRE. Photography courtesy Hannah Flanagan ’10, Susan Condon Love ’76, Laura McCarty ’07, Jason Miller of Pixelate Ltd., and Lifetouch Photography.

For more information, please contact Susan Condon Love ’76, Communications Director, at 216.619.1937 or slove@sja1890.org.

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

On the cover: L-R: Alexis Dewitt ’18, Annaclaire Lonsway ’18, Kiera Reilly ’18 and Di'Avian Scruggs ’17.

Happy 125th Birthday, Saint Joseph Academy! Many happy returns!!

Don’t you just love celebrating birthdays? I do. I start giving my family and friends birthday alerts, counting down the days. I admit that it is not my most endearing quality, but birthdays are meant to be celebrated, right? My birthday is December 31st. When I was younger, I really hated that date. My birthday always fell during Christmas vacation, so I never was in school to celebrate with my friends. I remember being envious of my classmates who brought treats on their birthdays to share with their friends. But I as I got older, I realized that having a birthday on New Year’s Eve is actually pretty cool. Everyone celebrates on New Year’s Eve! But I digress.

Saint Joseph Academy has reached a milestone that is certainly worth celebrating – proud and out loud! One hundred twenty-five years. Wow! How many blessings have been showered on our beloved Academy over these many decades? Too many to count.

Let’s start with the founding of the Academy in 1890 in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland. We are blessed by the vision of the Sisters of St. Joseph, who believed in the education of women when others thought it a waste. We are blessed with the courage of Mother Theresa Fitzmaurice, who ventured out the “wilderness” of Rockport Township to purchase the beautiful piece of property where the Academy has stood for almost all of its 125 years. We are blessed by the dedication of the faculty and staff, who guided the Academy through the decades. We are blessed by the thousands of women, our alumnae, who were educated in the charism of the Sisters of St. Joseph, living lives of compassionate leadership and service for more than a century and a quarter.

But birthday parties are not about the past; they are about the future. When we light the candles, close our eyes, make a wish and blow out the candles, we are dreaming about what’s next. What will the future bring?

For the next year, we will celebrate all that makes Saint Joseph Academy vibrant, valued and vital – to our local community, to our families, to our Church and to our world. We know it is our responsibility not to rest on the accomplishments of the past, but to prepare young women to take their place in a global society that needs compassionate leadership and service now more than ever. We must prepare the young women entrusted to our care for careers that haven’t yet been invented, but roles that will always call for “serving the dear neighbor, without distinction.” We are called to bring the Good News of Jesus Christ to everyone – “…so that all may be one.” Yes, we need to look to the next 125 years with determination, spirit and courage. And we invite you to join our journey and celebrate with us!

Join us for an event that marks our 125th birthday. Come to our speaker series.

Attend our annual “Celebrate the Academy” gala on February 21, 2015. Cheer the Saint Joseph Academy float at a local parade. Take pride in the accomplishments of 125 years and the promise of the future that our students provide. It is, indeed, a good time to be a Jaguar!

Saint Joseph Academy is 125 years young! Let’s make it the best birthday ever!!

Sursum corda! Lift up your hearts!

Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis ’71

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

Joseph Academy UPDATE

Three Seniors Are National Merit Scholarship Commended Scholars

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n September, seniors Halle Armstrong, Cari Milowicki and Olivia Ritchie were named 2015 National Merit Scholarship Commended Scholars, putting them in the ranks of the top 5 percent of the 1.5 million students who participated in the PSAT/ National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test last fall.

Halle is the daughter of Sally and Timothy Armstrong and sister of Emily Armstrong ’13. She is on the Senior Class Leadership Team, president of the National Honor Society, co-editor-in-chief of the yearbook, a Senator in Latin Club, an Academy Ambassador, a peer tutor, and a volunteer at Fairview Hospital. Halle is interested in attending American, Georgetown or The Ohio State universities to study politics.

Cari, the daughter of Cathleen and Christopher Milowicki, is interested in Boston College and Columbia, New York or Brown universities, and is “leaning toward the arts,” she said. Cari is president of the Academic Jaguars, is involved in the St. Edward Marching Band, Edwardian Players at St. Edward High School,

L-R: Halle Armstrong, Cari Milowicki and Olivia Ritchie

is a member of the National Honor Society and participates as a peer tutor.

Olivia is the daughter of Amy and Shannan Ritchie. She dances with DNA of Dance in Independence and is a member of the stage crew for the Edwardian Players at St. Edward High School. Olivia would like to be a graphic designer, and is interested in Ohio, Virginia Commonwealth, Temple and Kent State universities.

Congratulations Halle, Cari and Olivia!

Engineering Students Help CSJs with Visitors Map of St. Joseph Center Thanks to the work of eight engineering students, visitors to the St. Joseph Center will have a visual guide to assist them in finding their way around the building. This fall, students in “Introduction to Engineering” studied architectural drawing. They were able to put their newfound knowledge to use almost immediately when they were asked to create a scaled map of the first floor of the St. Joseph Center. The request came from the center’s director, Sr. Ann Kilbane ’54, CSJ. “The engineering students study architectural drawing prior to studying Computer Aided Design (CAD) because it provides a context for understanding CAD design concepts such as producing multiple views in three-dimensional space, use of constraint lines and problems with overconstraining a design,” shared Science Teacher Mary Ellen Foley Scott ‘76.

“I enjoyed working on this project because it allowed me to use my God given skills to help out the CSJs,” shared Bailey Slattery ’16.

Student Honored with Prestigious Youth In Philanthropy Award Junior Kendra Cundiff does more than just talk about “serving the dear neighbor.” Kendra has devoted nearly 300 hours helping children and teens with disabilities through the organization Youth Challenge, providing compassionate leadership starting when she was only 13. In November, Kendra was honored with the prestigious Youth In Philanthropy Award, bestowed annually by the Greater Cleveland Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals. This is the second time in three years that an SJA student has won this award. Lauren Brooks ’13, received the award two years ago for her work with the Cleveland Rape Crisis Center’s Youth 360 program.

This award was given out in conjunction with National Philanthropy Day, November 7, in a special ceremony held at La Centre in Westlake.

In addition, Kendra was featured in the November edition of Cleveland Magazine (see story at http://goo.gl/vB35Rm).

Kendra, 17, is an enthusiastic, dedicated advocate for Youth Challenge, and is currently on the organization’s Board of Trustees as a student intern. Youth Challenge brings together about 160 children, ages 4-18, with physical disabilities and youth volunteers who participate one-on-one in adapted sports and recreational activities.

“We do adapted recreational activities such as art and dancing, and sports such as basketball, swimming, and hockey. It is loads of fun! I am also a vice president on the volunteer committee at Youth Challenge, a group that meets about twice a month to plan activities. I also enjoy my work as the student intern on the 2014 Board of Trustees. I have the opportunity to work ‘behind the scenes,’ helping with fundraising, as well as sharing my experiences as a volunteer with potential donors.”

L-R: Bailey Slattery ‘16, Faith Sekerak ‘17

Kendra also is a model of “serving the dear neighbor” at SJA. She and her sister Maya ’17, started the American Sign Language Club “to foster the idea of inclusion,” said Kendra. “Through this club, Maya and I want to share how rewarding it is to work with the deaf community. It’s one of the most rewarding things I’ve done in my life.”

“I loved that when we were able to work with the Sisters. They were so hospitable and thankful that we were there helping out the community,” added Jadalise Pacheco ‘18.

Kendra’s favorite subjects are Theology and English.

In addition to the American Sign Language Club, Kendra also works on the school newspaper. Kendra, who lives in Middleburg Heights, is the daughter of Darice and James Cundiff.

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SJA Proudly Celebrates Being Vibrant, Valued,

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n in-school performance by the world renowned Cleveland Orchestra, a visit from a Pulitzer Prize-winning alumna, a special evening honoring the Sisters of the Congregation of St. Joseph - these are just a few of the highlights of the upcoming year as Saint Joseph Academy joyfully celebrates the 125th anniversary of its founding in 1890.

Throughout the year, festivities will serve as a proud nod to the Academy’s vibrant role in Northeast Ohio’s educational evolution, a look back at the school’s valued history, and an eye forward to an academically vital and faith-centered future.

Celebrations began Sunday, October 12, with a Homecoming Mass at the school at the conclusion of the Grand Reunion weekend.

The Mass, attended by more than 400 friends and alumnae, was followed by tours of the school and family fun activities on the campus.

“The Homecoming Mass was a perfect way to kick-off the celebrations. Saint Joseph Academy has fostered lives of compassionate leadership for 125 years, and continues to have

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a positive impact on the lives of the young women of Northeast Ohio,” shared President Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis ’71.

In December, the celebrations continue with the start of a speaker series that will include a very special appearance on December 16 at the school by Sr. Griselda Martinez Morales, CSJ, formerly the Non-Governmental Organization representative for the Sisters of St. Joseph worldwide at the United Nations. She will be addressing the global crisis of human trafficking. (See accompanying story.)

In the Spring, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Mary Jordan ’79 of The Washington Post will be visiting campus to share insights on success and global service, as well discussing the book she is currently writing with Seymour Avenue captives Gina DeJesus and Amanda Berry about their decade of being held against their will.

In February, the school’s annual “Celebrate the Academy” gala will honor our founding Sisters of the Congregation of St. Joseph with the Medaille Shield Award, presented annually since 1994 in recognition of outstanding service to the school. The award is named after Jean Pierre Medaille, S.J., who in 1650 along with six women helped found the Congregation of St. Joseph. The gala will be held on campus as a special treat this year, too.

A truly special event is planned for May 1, 2015, when the Saint Joseph Academy community will be treated to a concert at the school by the renowned Cleveland Orchestra.

“We are thrilled and honored that the internationally acclaimed Cleveland Orchestra will be performing at Saint Joseph Academy to help us celebrate our 125th birthday. This is a further way to showcase what makes us a vibrant, valued and vital part of Northeast Ohio,” shared Mrs. Corrigan-Davis.

Other 125th planned activities include: participation in both the Cleveland St. Patrick’s Day Parade and the Kamm’s Corners Fourth of July Parade; and a pilgrimage to Le Puy, France, site of the founding of the Sisters of St. Joseph in 1650.

The trip will include three nights in Le Puy, two nights in Lyon and two nights in Paris.

More information will be forthcoming.

When Saint Joseph Academy opened its doors in 1890 on Starkweather Avenue in the Tremont neighborhood, Cleveland was a growing and prosperous city. More than one-fourth of the workforce was employed in the city’s many steel mills, helping Cleveland become the 10th largest city in the United States and an industrial giant. The Sisters of the Congregation of St. Joseph, whose mission has always focused on serving and empowering the “dear neighbor,” saw in this burgeoning city a growing need to educate the daughters of this workforce for a dramatically changing 20th century.

In 1898, the school moved to its current site on Rocky River Drive, which at the time was a parcel of farmland off a dirt road in a sparsely populated area on the edge of what is now the Rocky River Metroparks Reservation. Classes

125 Years of Vital were held in the Congregation’s adjoining Motherhouse until the school building was completed in 1928. In the last three years, the school building has undergone more than $7.1 million in improvements, including expanding the dining hall, adding a porch and a terrace; upgrading WiFi, electrical and heating units; and creating a state-of-the-art biology lab to accommodate a new Health Sciences Honors Program.

Saint Joseph Academy remains a vital anchor in the Cleveland’s West Park neighborhood, with 710 students from 46 different zip codes and 60 different feeder schools, and 100 faculty and staff in the 2014-15 academic year.

“Saint Joseph Academy has always encouraged each young woman to discover her unique talents,” said Principal Jeff Sutliff. “For 125 years, our curriculum has evolved in anticipation of the changing demands and needs of society.

But one thing remains steadfast: nurturing each young woman’s personal relationship with Christ. We encourage and support each girl as she steps into the world to ‘serve the dear neighbor.’"

“We look forward to the next 125 years with an unwavering dedication to our students, God and our community. Saint Joseph Academy is proud to be 125 years young!” said Mrs. Corrigan-Davis.

For more information, please visit www.sja1890. org/125years, or call 216.251.6788.

Sr. Griselda Martinez Morales Kicks Off 125th Speaker Series Please join us on December 16 at SJA for an evening with Sr. Griselda Martinez Morales, CSJ, as she shares her thoughts and experiences as the former global representative at the United Nations for 14,000+ members of the Sisters of St. Joseph. Sr. Griselda worked as a non-governmental organization (NGO) representative for the Congregation from September 2009 to July 2014. She will be speaking about the global ramifications of human trafficking. While at the United Nations, Sr. Griselda sat on the Economic and Social Council, which dealt with the harsh realities of this moral plague.

Sr. Griselda’s presentation, which is free, will start at 7 p.m. It is the first in a series of speaking events in the next year as SJA celebrates its 125th anniversary of being a vibrant, valued and vital member of the Northeast Ohio educational community.

“Actually, I think that not only human trafficking is important, but everything that denies our brothers and sisters in the world their dignity, life, respect, peace, happiness, liberty or humanity,” shared Sr. Griselda. “At the UN, my main interest was to promote awareness that we are all citizens of the world, and the worldwide problems are our problems.”

The discussion of highly charged emotional issues as human trafficking is important “because it is our mission to bring the voice of the marginalized” into the forefront of society, she said.

Sr. Griselda has always felt a connection to those who might feel marginalized. Born in Veracruz, Mexico and growing up on a small fruit farm, Sr. Griselda was blessed with a strong faith in God and a burning desire to help others. She became a sister in 1989 at the age of 22. At first, she worked in a pastoral ministry in Chiapas, Mexico, followed by work in Nuevo Laredo, a city on the border of Laredo, Texas. She was soon invited to represent Mexico and Central America as part of the congregation’s international peace and justice team. It was in that capacity that she met her predecessor at the UN, Sr. Carol Zinn, SSJ, succeeding her in 2009 in the NGO role.

Sr. Griselda is unsure what her next assignment will be, but she knows that it will involve striving for social justice and serving the dear neighbor. “Whatever I do, I’ll do it in accordance of my convictions: ‘We Are One’ and ‘For the Life of the World.’ I will continue to be engaged with justice and peace issues.”

All are welcome to this free event, but reservations are required. Please RSVP to rsvp@sj1890.org.

125TH ANNIVERSARY SCHEDULE OF EVENTS December 16, 2014: Speaker Sr. Griselda Martinez Morales.

February 21, 2015: “Celebrate the Academy” annual gala, honoring SJA’s founders, the Sisters of the Congregation of St. Joseph, at SJA.

CELEBRATE THE ACADEMY

March 17, 2015: Participation in Cleveland’s Saint Patrick’s Day Parade.

June 1, 2015: Special Recognition for the graduating Class of 2015.

Spring, 2015: Speaker Series Pulitzer Prize winning journalist Mary Jordan ‘79 of The Washington Post.

July 4, 2015: Participation in the Kamm’s Corners Fourth of July Parade.

May 1, 1015: The Cleveland Orchestra’s performance, at SJA.

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ACADEMY 2015

May 25, 2015: Third Annual “Earn Your Spots” 5K/1 Mile Walk, starting at SJA.

October 11, 2015: Community Celebration and Distinguished Alumnae Reunion, at SJA. October, 2015: Pilgrimage to Le Puy, France.

November 2015: Final Mass of Thanksgiving.

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New State-of-the-Art Biology Lab Fosters Scientific Experimentation, Advanced Learning

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tudents interested in medical, health or biology careers - including those enrolled in the new Health Sciences Honors Program - are now enjoying a stateof-the-art biology lab featuring all utilities, including electricity, gas and water at multiple lab stations, a dishwasher for sanitizing lab glassware, plenty of storage for easy access to equipment and a new “bacteria resistant” floor.

“The classroom was completely redesigned to be a 21st century lab setting,” shared Science Teacher Valerie Sanfilippo, who was a guiding force in the installation of the new lab this past summer.

The layout of the lab was given much thought and careful consideration to optimize the space. “The front of the room is the classroom area where I can give lectures, monitor small lab experiments and conduct collaborative student projects,” shared Mrs. Sanfilippo. “Half the room is designed for the upper-level students to work on continuous labs and research. The lab items can be set up and left over periods of time without disrupting other classes. The other half of the room also will be used for students in the new Health Sciences Honors Program to carry out independent research.”

“We are very excited about this new asset to our already superior science curriculum,” shared Principal Jeff Sutliff. “Especially with our new Health Sciences Honors Program, we know the room will be put to good use.”

An updated biology lab is an important link to maximize the benefits of both our Health Sciences Honors Program and an increased emphasis on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) studies. “By providing upgraded facilities and equipment, we foster an atmosphere of scientific curiosity. Laboratory experiments help students decide if science should be 6

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“Our students will truly transform their world.”

their careers, and teach them how to work collaboratively, complete projects and build skills that are used in everyday life,” shared Mrs. Sanfilippo.

Already this year, the upgraded biology lab has been used in dissection and bacterial transformation experiments. “The new lab has enabled us to expand our approach to teaching by providing more hands-on experimentation and facilitating the process in which students discover the joys of science. The advanced environment allows students to immerse themselves in the studying of concepts that may be dry and uninteresting as just words and pictures in a book,” she added.

– Mrs. Sanfilippo

“The lab and our Health Sciences Honors Program give SJA students an advantage when it comes to college pursuits and, ultimately, careers,” added Mr. Sutliff.

And those careers are among the hottest in today’s economy. According to the U. S. Department of Commerce, STEM occupations are growing at a rate of 17%.

Health care workers with associate degrees to doctors of medicine will average 20% more in life time earnings than peers with similar degrees in non-health care.

By providing students with the best, most updated environment in which to study, SJA is empowering them to go out and change the world, become compassionate leaders and serve the dear neighbor. In the spirit of the charism of the Sisters of St. Joseph, STEM careers are truly “helping” professions that build communities by working to find solutions for global warming, cancer, third world hunger, disappearing habitats, and an interdependent world economy.

“Our students will truly transform their world – and the first step will include what they will learn in biology and other science classes,” said Mrs. Sanfilippo.

PRINCIPAL’S CORNER

Inclusive Advanced Placement (AP) Program Empowers Our Young Women

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t Saint Joseph Academy, we empower each student to achieve academic excellence through a rigorous course of study. Our Advanced Placement (AP) Program has grown considerably in recent years and has been essential element in our work to keep the mission vibrant, valued and vital. As we celebrate our 125th birthday, we also celebrate the accomplishments of our 43 students who earned the distinctive honor of being named AP Scholars (see story below).

Developed by the College Board, AP courses provide students with the opportunity to take college level coursework and earn college credit while still attending high school. These credits can save a student considerable time and expense on her journey to a college degree. In fact, many of our students earn a semester or more of college credit by the time they graduate from the Academy.

We couldn’t have done it without the hard work and creative ideas of our community.

The College Board must approve the syllabus for each course on an annual basis and each teacher participated in intensive professional development. The approval process and training ensure that each course and teacher meets high standards of quality and rigor, standards that shape the academic climate of the entire school.

Many Cleveland schools offer AP classes as part of their academic program, but Saint Joseph Academy is special in that we have a broad, inclusive AP program. We don’t limit access to these classes to only our most advanced students. Instead, we believe that all of our students need exposure to a demanding curriculum in order to be prepared for college. We’d rather push our students to challenge themselves academically than play the role of gatekeeper. Our role as educators is to provide opportunities, not obstacles.

By gradually introducing students to college level coursework at the high school level, we provide them a vital transition to the rigors our students will face in college.

The high number and wide variety of our AP courses is essential to creating those opportunities. Because we offer 15 different AP courses, each student has scheduling flexibility and access to a course of study that meets her individual needs. Our Assistant Principal Emily Hanson ’99 and a team of teachers developed an innovative master schedule that opened up even more opportunities. This year, 75 percent of our seniors are taking at least one AP course and we expect this number to continue to rise in future years.

As the AP program continues to grow at Saint Joseph Academy, it shows how we live our mission by inspiring each student to achieve academic excellence. In the words of Dolores Clerico, SSJ, “The excellence we strive for is not about being greater than another or outdoing another. The excellence we strive for is about each person reaching her fullest potential as created by God.” Each Academy student is called to this level of excellence through our inclusive, rigorous AP program.

– Jeff Sutliff

43 Students Named 2014 AP Scholars A total of 43 Saint Joseph Academy students and recent alumnae have received recognition in the 2013-14 Advance Placement (AP) Scholar Awards, which recognize high school students who have demonstrated collegelevel achievement through AP courses and examinations. Categories include the AP Scholar Award and the National AP Scholar, granted to students in the United States who receive an average score of at least 4 on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 4 or higher on eight or more of these exams.

The 2014 National AP Scholar is Sara Hurley ’14, who was last year’s Class Valedictorian. She is the sister of Kara Hurley ’12.

The AP Scholars with Distinction are: Halle Armstrong ’15, Sara Hurley ’14, Ciara McGlynn ’14 (daughter of Rose Forrest McGlynn ’76 and sister of Hannah McGlynn ’07 and Moira McGlynn ’11), Cari Milowicki ’15, Grace Powers ’14 (granddaughter of Margaret Ames Smith ’49, daughter of Maureen Smith Powers ’83 and

sister of Callie Powers ’12), Olivia Ritchie ’15, Emily Rouse ’14 (last year’s Class Salutatorian and daughter of Colleen Lang Rouse ’81) and Marley Yarian ’14 (daughter of Kristine Soltis Yarian ’94).

The AP Scholars with Honor are: Rose Dolan ’14, Emily Ernst ’14 (daughter of Donna Corrigan Ernst ’80), Grace Hendryx ’14, Sarah Kolick ’15, Maureen Loftus ’14 (granddaughter of Bride Ann Gallagher Sweeney ’50 and daughter of Maureen Sweeney Loftus ’80), Mary McKenna ’15, Meghan Miles ’14, Julia Nebbia ’14, Alessia Saul ’14 and Paige Somerville ’14.

The 2014 AP Scholars are: Rachel Barendt ’15 (granddaughter of Kathleen Griffin Barendt ’48, deceased), Mary Rose Bonifas ’15 and her twin Nora Bonifas ’15 (daughters of Maureen Murphy Bonifas ’81), Maureen Borden ’15 (daughter of Catherine Becker Borden ’83 and granddaughter of Sheila Allen Becker ’54), Nina Brown ’14, Alison DeCrane ’14

(sister of Mary DeCrane ’11), Stephanie Gorsek ’14, Anne Grove ’14, Anna Grusenmeyer ’14, Gabrielle Hughes ’14 (daughter of Caroline Galambos Huges ’83), Sarah Johanek ’15, Kathleen Jones ’15 (daughter of Margaret McCrone Jones ’81), Brooke Kahl ’14 (daughter of JoAnn Aerni Kahl ’82, (granddaughter of Margaret Lynch Kahl ’58 and Marilyn Westfall Aerni ’50, deceased, sister of Michelle Kahl ’09), Emily Keller ’15, Gabrielle Leon ’14, Molly McAfee ’15 (daughter of Regina Sowa McAfee ’88), Julianna Minich ’14, Kelsey O’Donnell ’14 daughter of Megan Hurley O’Donnell N’72), Emily Pellegrino ’14, Jennifer Polito ’14 (granddaughter of Marilyn Westfall Aerni ’50, deceased, daughter of LuAnn Aerni Polito ’82), Nina Ripich ’14, Keegan Sumser ’14, Erica Uhler ’14 (daughter of Kathleen Wilk Uhler N’79) Juliana Withers ’15 and Maddie Zimmerman ’14.

Congratulations to all!

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Students Share Faith, Work Hard T his past summer, students embarked on mission trips near and far – to Haiti, the Dominican Republic, El Salvador and Kermit, W.V. The trips are part of Saint Joseph Academy’s continuing commitment to “serve the dear neighbor,” a mission inspired by our sponsoring Sisters of the Congregation of St. Joseph and this year’s all-school theme as Saint Joseph Academy celebrates its 125th birthday.

El Salvador The group also included students from Saint Martin de Porres and Gilmore Academy. Alison Saracina ’15 and Lexi Kim ’15, accompanied by Assistant Principal Emily Hanson ’99, traveled to El Salvador as part of an International Partners in Mission trip. In the course of just a few days, they learned about martyred missionaries, visited a cooperative providing bread and valuable drinking water to a village, and experienced a cooperative where the pottery is made by people with disabilities.

The students visited the spot where, in 1980, four missionaries were murdered, including Ursuline nun Sr. Dorothy Kazel and lay missionary Jean Donovan, both from Cleveland, and two Maryknoll sisters. Our students visited the chapel in El Puerto de La Libertad built on the site where the four church women were found. There, they heard about the missionaries’ transformative work which taught residents how to live the Gospel.

Combining a quest to honor those who have fallen for their faith, as well as the history of the area, the students also visited the Ruinas

El Salvador

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de San Andrés, the site of an ancient Mayan village which was buried by volcanic ash in 250 AD. It was rebuilt, but was buried by another volcanic eruption in 1658.

“We were so blessed to meet the people of El Salvador,” shared Alison. “Their faith is inspirational.”

Dominican Republic When Kerry Jamieson made the decision to participate in a mission trip to the Dominican Republic this summer, she knew she would encounter a totally different world – Dominican Republic one completely different from her life as an SJA senior.

Her expectations of a transformative experience proved to be correct. After spending seven days in Higuey, Dominican Republic, doing everything from leading a Bible study class, to helping paint houses, to cleaning out a septic tank used by villagers, Kerry considers herself profoundly changed.

“It is so unbelievably humbling to realize how fortunate we are,” said Kerry.

Kerry was one of 15 students who traveled to the Dominican Republic with Spanish teacher Alison Morgan, CORE Ministry teacher Kristen Pungitore, “Mission Possible” Board Member Fr. Andy Turner, and Fr. Bob Stec of Saint Ambrose Parish in Brunswick.

The trip was with “Mission Possible,” an outreach program established in 2006 through

Saint Ambrose. The group has organized two formal mission trips each year since its formation, all to the Dominican Republic.

The town of Higuey was chosen because of its level of poverty.

The SJA group was kept busy while in Higuey. “We went through about 50 gallons of primer and paint,” shared Mrs. Morgan.

“We painted the outside of the community center in the old village and the inside of four houses in the new village.”

In addition, they organized a vacation Bible school for about 100 children, and replaced the rotted wood poles that hold electrical boxes to the facades of houses.

While the work was difficult, the students took on one task that would make most people pause: they repaired the septic tanks in the village. “They opened the lids, raised the tanks, made new lids by mixing mortar and cement, set it, then replaced it,” said Mrs. Morgan.

“I loved every second of this experience,” said Clare Tirpak ’16. “I knew I wanted to make a difference in someone’s life. I quickly learned that the trip was making a difference in my life, the lives of the people of the Dominican Republic, and my fellow missionaries.”

Kermit, W.V. This summer, 13 students and their chaperones climbed into two Jaguar vans and traveled winding and nerve-wracking mountainous roads to Kermit, West Virginia, a small town in Appalachia near the West Virginia/Kentucky border. They were making the trip to help run a day camp for the children of Kermit and the surrounding communities.

The trip marks the third year a group from SJA has visited ABLE Families, a Congregation of St. Joseph-sponsored ministry in Kermit. ABLE (an acronym for Affirming, Believing, Learning, Empowering) Families was found in 1995 by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Wheeling and is dedicated to “empowering families in the rural Tug Valley area of northern Mingo County, West Virginia.”

College Counselor Maria Mueller has

on Summer Mission Trips traveled to Kermit with students for the last three summers.

She was joined on this trip by Math teacher Dennis Cushing.

In previous years, students have assisted with summer camps and have completed manual labor in Kermit and nearby Kermit, W.V. towns. This year, however, Sr. Pat Murray, CSJ, the Executive Director of ABLE Families, asked the students to plan and manage a summer camp for children ages 5-12.

“We spent months planning this camp,” shared junior Emma Stalder. “We wanted it to be both educational and fun!”

Educational activities such as math bingo, spelling games, making “flubber” and reading were mixed with other activities included memory games, obstacle courses and dress-up relays.

“I loved helping. The camp was so much fun!” said Katie Butterfield ’16. “At Saint Joseph Academy, we try to live the motto to ‘serve the dear neighbor.’ After visiting Kermit and working with the children, I now understand what that truly means. I am so grateful I had the opportunity to take this trip.”

children, and sandals to the people with bare feet.”

“My sister had already been to Haiti twice with this group and I really wanted to experience it myself. We stayed for a total of six days,” she shared. “In addition to handing out food and clothing, we hiked or drove up two different mountains. At the first mountain, we hiked up to a spring near the top of the mountain to pass out more bread with peanut butter. On the second mountain, we visited a school and church and met with the students.”

“On our last day, we visited the pediatric wing of a hospital in Saint Marc. There, we prayed for the children and families and paid off all the medical bills with the donations we had collected in the United States. It was very overwhelming to see so

many infants with tubes running in and out of them, and flies all over.”

“In the U.S., so many of us have a decent home to live in, running water, three meals a day.

Most children here have the education they need. In a third world country like Haiti, kids would love to be able to go to school every day!”

“This trip was life-changing,” she added. “I hope to go back next year.”

Haiti

26 Seniors Commissioned as Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist

Haiti This summer, senior Claire Orsagos took to heart SJA’s and the Sisters of the Congregation’s avowed mission to “serve the dear neighbor.” Claire traveled with her brother, sister and dad to Haiti with the Love Haiti Fund, a non-profit that raises money and takes it directly to Haiti to assist residents in person.

“Our general mission was to provide the people of Haiti with food, clothes, shoes, and water, along with giving them hope and faith that the next day would be better for them,” shared Claire. “We drove to different villages and handed out bread with peanut butter and candy, clothes to the naked

Congratulations and God’s blessings to the following 26 seniors recently commissioned as Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist: Maya Ajtun, Mary Andrews, Halle Armstrong, Rachel Barendt, Nora Bonifas, Abigail Brunori, Jessica Calton, Mallory Fahey, Abigail Gonzales, Brittany Hegeman, Grace Hendryx, Gwenevaer Jones, Kathleen Jones, Mary Beth Keck, Emily Keller, Mary Grace Lenehan, Mary McKenna, Cari Milowicki, Bridget Roche, Jordan Roso, Clare Sonby, Sarah Stottner, Emily Tabar, Maria Tirpak, Samantha Velasco and Katherine White.

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Fall Sports Volleyball Varsity had a very successful season in a variety of areas.

Facing one of the most challenging schedules in Northeast Ohio, Varsity was able to post 12 wins, as well as develop players for the future.

The Jaguars faced Magnificat High School in the sectional final match and dominated the Blue Streaks by sweeping their rival 3-0.

Amber Petras ’15 The Jaguars took some of the highest ranked teams in the state to final sets including Padua, Lake Catholic, Olmsted Falls, Amherst, Grove City and Big Walnut high schools. Three players received postseason all-district honors. Amber Petras ’15 was named first-team, Kira Rogozinski ’16 was named to the second team and Elise Dulder ’15 earned honorable mention.

Varsity: 12-12 JV: 15-5 Freshmen: 16-6

Soccer The soccer program faced a challenging schedule during the 2014 season, and while the results were not what the team was hoping for, the Jaguars finished the season strong. Varsity faced five teams that were ranked in the top 10 in the state during the 2014 season.

One of the high points for Varsity was its 3-1 win at Aurora High School as three seniors (Amanda Burns, Isabel Morini and Jackie Harter) scored in the victory in the team’s final game of the regular season.

Senior goalkeeper Becky Tent made several big saves for the Jaguars in the win.

Another highlight was Varsity’s 7-2 win over Trinity High School.

Junior Varsity posted five wins this season, highlighted by back-to-back wins against Medina Buckeye (6-2) and Western Reserve Academy (6-0).

Three JV players (Molly Dever ’18, Liz Heneghan ’17 and Kayla Tomm ’17) were added to the Varsity roster for the final regular season game and the postseason tournament game.

Varsity: 3-12-2 JV: 5-8-3

Jackie Harter ‘15

Fall Sports Banquet In November, the Sports Banquet was held at Brennan’s Party Center to recognize all the athletes who contributed to an exciting Fall sports season.

At the banquet, five fouryear Varsity letter winners were recognized: L-R: Kaitlin Rose (golf ), Jackie Harter (soccer), Isabella Morini (soccer), Amanda Burns (soccer) and Mallory Fahey (cross country).

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Tennis Players opened the season with three straight wins in dual matches and a third-place team finish at the Lakewood Doubles Tournament.

The teams of Molly McAfee ’15/Angela Cicero ’17 and Grace Hendryx ’15/Brittany Hegeman ’15 advanced to the second day of the tournament and finished among the top eight doubles teams.

The Jaguars played their best throughout the season with the match on the line. Eight of the team’s wins came by 3-2 scores and in seven of those matches, the team match came down to a third set on the deciding court. Key wins Hannah Schuette ‘17 throughout the year came over opponents from West Geauga, Hoover, Jackson, Hudson, Amherst, Rocky River and Magnificat high schools.

In individual post-season play, first singles player Hannah Schuette and second singles player Colleen FitzGerald ’16 advanced to the third round of the Oberlin Sectional Tournament. The Jaguar tennis team also advanced to the Round of 16 in Northeast Ohio in the Ohio Tennis Coaches’ Association (OTCA) Team Tournament. For the season, Grace Hendryx led the team with 18 wins at second doubles. Hannah Schuette made an immediate impact in her first season at first singles by winning 16 matches against top area opponents. Brittany Hegeman added 16 wins and the first doubles team of Molly McAfee/Angela Cicero won 14 matches.

Varsity: 14-7 JV: 10-7

Golf It was a successful season for our golf team, finishing with an overall record of 10-6.

In the dual match against Magnificat High School, Lauren Zawie ’17 and Rachel Barendt ’15 shot their low rounds of the season to help the team defeat the Blue Streaks. In the next match against Laurel and Beaumont, Alicia Abele ’16 was the medalist with a score of 40 that helped lead the team to victory. To keep the hot streak going, Kaitlin Rose ’15 shot a low round of 36 to lead the Jaguars in a win against a very strong Lutheran West team.

Two of our most improved players were Emily Skodny ’15 scoring a 49 to help defeat Rocky River High School, and Hannah Hill ’16 shooting a 46 in the match against Independence High School.

The Division Sectional tournament was held at The Legacy Golf Course on a blustery and rainy day. The Jaguars fought hard to a 6th-place finish, but only the top four teams advanced to the district tournament.

Team Captain Kaitlin Rose ’15 earned a third trip to the district state qualifier at The Legends of Massillon. She shot an 81 which gave her a top 10 finish in the tournament.

Kaitlin Rose ‘15

Maggie Wagner ’17

Cross Country The team came into 2014 looking again to replace some valuable seniors lost to graduation. Some old and new faces took on that challenge. With a roster of 46 athletes, SJA’s depth proved valuable, always challenging the top teams in the state at the Varsity level and winning nearly every Junior Varsity competition they entered. Many runners ran personal records during the season.

The Jaguars were led all season by sophomore Maggie Wagner, who has now run the 2nd fastest time in school history. She was also named The Plain Dealer Athlete of the Week and was the individual District Champion this fall. Close on Maggie’s heels all season was freshman Sydney Seymour, who is currently the 4th fastest Jaguar all-time and was the District and Regional runner-up, as well as a State Qualifier.

The following were all Varsity runners at one time or another this season: seniors Victoria Bonca, Mallory Fahey, Anna Farris, Clare Fibbi, Lauren Marconi; juniors Corinne Baker, Katie Butterfield, and Bridget McGuire; sophomores Olivia Battistoni, Mary Hyland and Maggie Wagner; and freshmen Claudia Becker, Emily Conway, and Sydney Seymour.

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Junior Rugby Player Featured in Cleveland magazine Junior Rachael Kean, a member of the SJA Rugby team since her freshmen year, was chosen to play this past summer on Ohio Elite Girl’s U19 Rugby Team. This honor also earned her a mention in the September issue of Cleveland magazine. Rachael earned a Varsity spot on SJA’s team her freshman year and has helped the team win two straight state titles (SJA has earned four state titles in five years). The experience also was a factor in landing her a spot on the Ohio Elite Girl’s U19 Rugby Team, which finished third in the Midwest Championship Tournament and fourth at the Challenge Cup in Pennsylvania over the summer. As Rachael said in the magazine article, playing rugby “was a little intimidating at first, but my coach (Head Coach Jaime Cleary) made sure I knew that age doesn’t matter. It’s all about whether you have the skills.”

Swim Team Members Used Their Talents to Benefit Transplant House Senior Kiera Grady, a member of the SJA Swim Team, saw a need and decided to take action. Kiera organized a “Laps 4 Life” fundraiser in October to benefit Transplant House of Cleveland, a non-profit organization that provides temporary, affordable housing in a home-like environment for organ transplant patients and their families while they visit Cleveland for medical care.

“We raised more than $1,600 for Transplant House in just two hours!” shared Kiera.

“For my Junior Shadowing project, I worked with Mrs. Debbie Berry, an Urban Planner in University Circle. During this experience, I met many amazing people, all trying to make Cleveland a better place. One meeting was with the director of Elaine Turley, a Transplant House board member, and Kiera Grady ‘15 the Transplant House of Cleveland. She discussed the costly renovation of a University Circle home into apartments. Presently half of these apartments are rented by the out-of-town transplant patients. I thought it would be helpful to hold a fundraiser in the form of a swima-thon to benefit these patients, with the proceeds assisting in the cost of their posttransplant stay,” said Kiera.

“I am so happy we could use our talents for such a good cause” added Rachel Strick ’17 who participated in the fundraiser.

Crew Christens New Boat Although their season starts in the Spring, the Varsity 4+ (Kerry Jamieson ’15, Sarah Johanek ’15, Molly Miller ’17, Julia Herrel ’15, and coxswain Mackenzie Schoenherr ’15) qualified for the largest regatta in the world, the Head of the Charles Regatta, held in Boston, Mass. Held on October 19, the regatta attracted 11,000

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participants and 400,000 spectators. The Jaguar Crew finished 33rd out of a field of 84 boats, re-qualifying the team for next year’s regatta. The crew was third among Midwest teams. Pictured, the Jaguar Crew poses with their newest boat, christened the “Sisters of St. Joseph,” by Sr. Joan Lang, CSJ, with sunglasses at left.

Welcome, Class of 2018!

O

n September 2, the 192 members of the Class of 2018 experienced the first of what will be four years of memories as they celebrated their inaugural Mass as Jaguars, followed by a rousing all-school welcome. Sophomores, juniors and seniors lined the walkway leading to the front steps of the school, clapping and cheering as the freshmen received a single yellow rose from Principal Jeff Sutliff and President Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis ’71.

The freshmen then wound their way into the building, returning a few minutes later for a class picture.

Some fun facts about the Class of 2018: Students live in 36 different zip codes; they live as far west as Amherst, as far east as Euclid and as far south as Brunswick and Broadview Heights; the freshmen come from 58 different feeder schools; and six members of the class recorded a perfect score on the ACT Explore 8 Test taken last fall.

Welcome to all members of the class of 2018!

Class of 2018 Legacy Connections Natalie Barendt, granddaughter of +Kathleen Griffin Barendt ’48; Marguerite Barrett, granddaughter of +Marguerite Caleb Knapp ’39; Claudia Becker, granddaughter of Sheila Allen Becker ’54; Elizabeth Brady, daughter of Eleanor Micko Brady ’81; Erica Bryson, daughter of Deborah York Bryson ’85, granddaughter of Joyce Steigerwald York ’57; Mary Chura, granddaughter of Mary Ellen Bunosky Chura ’56; McKenzy Connelly, daughter of Sara Connelly Pidcock ’96; McKenna Dugan, greatgranddaughter of Eileen Reidy Haas ’41; Olivia Finau, granddaughter of +Margaret Dailey Bain ’34; Julia Forcht, daughter of Tanya Byrne Forcht ’88; Emma Fox, daughter of Leigh Douglas Fox ’87; Lucy Greaney, granddaughter of Patricia Mencini Billick ’58; Ronain Heath, daughter of Kerrie Carrocia Heath ’88; Katherine Kettel, granddaughter of Judith Mentz Lavelle ’62; Katelyn Kittinger, daughter of Paula Moenich Kittinger ’91; Kayla Lenahan, daughter of Sharon Stuczynski Lenahan ’87; Elizabeth Lewandowski, granddaughter of Pamela Pawlak Lewandowski N’65; Annaclaire Lonsway, daughter of Lisa Adkins Lonsway ’84; Emma Mathe, granddaughter of Kathleen Baldrey Mathe ’64; Grace Nagle, daughter of Heather O’Donnell Nagle ’87; Bridget O’Boyle, daughter of Adrienne Arth O’Boyle ’88; Molly Powers, daughter of Maureen Smith Powers ’83, granddaughter of Margaret Ames Smith ’49; Kayleigh Richardson, daughter of Kelleen O’Donnell ’84; Olivia Rosborough, daughter of Karen Hernandez ’92; Isabella Roso, daughter of Bridget Ann Biggs Roso ’89, granddaughter of Patricia Ruggerio Biggs ’63; Theresa Russo, daughter of Kathleen Schuler Russo ’83, granddaughter of +Lucy DiMauro Russo ’51; Lauren Smith, daughter of Katherine Hernandez Smith ’88; Emily Sonby, daughter of Barbara Waters Sonby ’90; Ann Stewart, daughter of Tina Wolff Stewart ’82, granddaughter of Dolores Kovacevic Wolff ’49; Margaret Sweeney, daughter of Bridget Lenehan Sweeney ’93; Rachael Urry, daughter of Renee Balaban Urry ’83; Cecilia Wagner, daughter of Margaret Becker Wagner ’80, granddaughter of Sheila Allen Becker ’54; Margaret Wagner, daughter of Karen Lee Wagner ’83; Caitlyn Walsh, daughter of Megan Darcy Walsh ’84. +Deceased

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ALUMNAE SPOTLIGHT:

Educating the Dear Neighbor Sandy Abraham ‘03

When 12-year-old Sandy came home with a “C” in sixth grade science, she assured her disappointed parents that she would never end up in a “science job.”

Fast forward to her sophomore year at SJA, when she landed in Mr. David Weiss’ chemistry classroom. It was a game-changer, marking the end of her dislike of science and signaling the early beginnings of what might look like a predestined career path as an engineer. But the path Sandy expected has progressed beyond those first expectations.

Studying to be an engineer transitioned into becoming a science teacher and now Sandy is a vocal champion of educational equity.

Sandy’s educational career after SJA started with her earning a degree in Chemical Engineering from The Ohio State University.

But she distinctly recalls feeling a desire to get more involved in social justice while in college. When Teach For America, which works to end educational inequity in the United States, came to the university to recruit, she became the organization’s campus campaign coordinator.

Sandy was accepted to Teach For America’s corps her senior year at OSU and, after graduation, moved to Chicago where she spent two years teaching chemistry and other courses at a high school. This particular high school was new, replacing one that had previously produced graduation rates around 35%. Its first graduating class increased that to 75%, and the rate continued to rise with each school year afterward. This success fueled Sandy’s belief that all children deserve a chance at a quality education.

Sandy eventually went to work for Teach For America’s staff in Chicago, leading the efforts for secondary science instruction, diversity

and cultural competence, and development and training of corps members in high school science classrooms.

When she moved back to Cleveland in 2013, Sandy found the perfect fit with Breakthrough Charter Schools, one of the highest performing charter networks in the state of Ohio. In her role as Associate Director of Human Capital Performance and Pathways, Sandy helps lead the network’s initiatives to retain and grow its staff members.

This position dovetails perfectly with Sandy’s dedication to creating change and supports her commitment to justice and equality, which has its roots in SJA. “For me, the work of urban education is also the work of restoring our country’s moral promise and healing its past,” she explains.

Along with the influence of her family – her sister is Lisa Abraham Hoekenga ’00 – and peers, everything Sandy has done or believes feels rooted in and reinforced by the values first learned in high school.

“I don’t believe I’d be who I am without SJA,” she says. “My experience there helped shape my archetype of a strong woman and a strong woman of faith.”

Nancy Zetts Roach ‘89 Nancy Roach was going to be a nurse….a nun….anything but a teacher. Even though her mother told her she was “a natural” with children. Even though she loved the lens through which youngsters viewed the world.

Even though she was excelling in her Early Childhood courses in college while working at a daycare center—and found herself thoroughly engaged whenever she was able to take what she learned in class and put it into practice at the daycare center and, conversely, take experiences from the daycare back to the classroom.

“I had such a unique and perfect setup for testing what worked and what didn’t work,” she recalls. “I realized that not everyone 14

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thought about young children the way I did — and that maybe my Mom was right.”

A reflective person by nature, Nancy realized that she liked to observe the way children interpreted situations and appreciated their uninhibited curiosity about the world. “I like to think about their thinking processes,” she says.

Nancy did end up going into teaching, working for the Cleveland Metropolitan School District (CMSD) for seven years before staying home for eight years to raise her three children. She knew she would return to the classroom once her youngest was in school, and she did.

Kelly Glasenapp Lisy ’04

Kelly is one of those individuals hardwired with an acute sense of self-awareness. She knew at a young age that she would never choose a career for the money or the prestige.

“I only wanted to work in a field that would further social justice,” she says.

She credits SJA with heavily influencng this decision. The mission of the school – and that of the Sisters of the Congregation of St. Joseph - promoted awareness of social injustice and empowered students to stamp it out. She attended SJA in large part because her mother,

Nancy is currently in her third year as a first grade teacher at International Newcomers Academy at Thomas Jefferson School on W.46th Street. Servicing students from pre-K through 12th grade, the program welcomes immigrant and refugee children from around the globe who have little to no Englishspeaking skills and who have been in the United States less than two years. The English Language Learners (ELLs) currently enrolled in her class speak Spanish, Arabic, Nepali and Chinese. They are from Algeria, Bhutan, China, El Salvador, Liberia, Guatemala, Nepal, Puerto Rico, Saudi Arabia and Qatar.

Karen Vavrus Glasenapp ’67, loved her alma mater. Even as a teenager, Kelly knew that serving the dear neighbor meant acting on the Christian values and mores learned at Saint Joseph Academy. For Kelly, that also meant choosing education as her vocation.

After getting her Bachelor of Arts degree from Boston University, and then her Master of Education/Elementary Education from Arizona State University, Kelly began her teaching career in the classroom of a failing, urban public school in Phoenix. “I felt very alone and isolated,” she recalls. “I didn’t want others to experience that. I believe that we must approach teacher support in the same way we approach education — holistically.” So she joined Teach For America, a national organization that recruits recent college graduates to commit two years to teach and to effect change in underresourced urban and rural public schools. She and her husband, Brandon, live in New York City, where Kelly coaches first- and second-year members of the corps who teach in the lowestincome, highest-need schools there. She stresses not only the instructional practices teachers can use, but also how to think “out of the box” when it comes to teaching. For example, she urges new teachers to think about how

they can become a voice for underrepresented communities. How can they live out their vision in the classroom? How can they ensure they are implementing culturally responsive teaching, given that the majority of the students are from diverse backgrounds?

“The longer I work in this field, the more I see systemic cycles of oppression that have disadvantaged certain groups of people — people of color, recent immigrants, English language learners, women, etc.” she explains.

Kelly believes that teachers have the power to change this discourse, which is why she regards teaching as much more than “just” an occupation.

Luckily, the voice she was encouraged to use while at SJA remains one of her strongest assets as she works with teachers in the toughest settings tackling the biggest issues while also molding best practices for general teaching. It’s a key reason she finds such satisfaction in her work.

“I always felt like I had a voice in high school — it was wonderful and empowering,” she said. “I think that’s why I’m so inspired to work toward a world in which everyone’s voice is heard like mine was at SJA.” Now that’s a voice worth listening to.

Students benefit from an interactive experience that goes beyond traditional teaching tools and tactics. According to Nancy, successfully working with ELLs requires teachers to be flexible and open to different pathways for instruction and learning.

“I use a lot of gesturing, objects, pictures and repetition,” Nancy explains.

Music, movement and art also play an integral part in helping students understand content and express themselves. Although students are limited with their English proficiency, they have an important role in their own learning because of their varied backgrounds, experiences and abilities to help

their classmates understand concepts in their native language.

Nancy has a Bachelor in Early Childhood education from Cleveland State University and a Master in Urban Studies from Cambridge College. She also completed TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) Endorsement from Cleveland State University. Next, she plans to take classes toward a Reading Endorsement.

When she’s not teaching or doing other planning for her job, Nancy enjoys spending time with her husband, Pat, and their children, Jimmy, 13, Jack, 12 and Jane, 10. The family resides in Avon, Ohio.

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The Power of Giving Emily* looked down at her desk. “Does anyone else have their money for the field trip?” the teacher asked. The field trip was to the theater, and Emily really wanted to go. It was $10 – a small sum to many of her classmates, but not to her. “Anyone else have their money?” Emily stared down, and the teacher moved on with the lesson. After class, when the other girls had gone, she called Emily over. “Could you help me put all this equipment away?” she asked.

“That would be a big help.” When she was done, the teacher walked over, and said “You did such a good job I’d like to pay you $10.”

It may be a small gesture by one of our caring teachers, but it had a big impact on Emily. For many of our girls, this is the reality.

That is a week of lunches, or even bus fare. That small amount of money is keeping them from learning, from being with their friends – from looking up from their desks.

As we approach Christmas, we hope that you will take a moment to think about girls like Emily. Your support helps girls just like her to do so many things – like go to the theater, or even to receive help with their tuition. We hope you will consider a gift to the Annual Fund in honor of our 125th anniversary, to help girls like Emily.

Please consider a gift to Emily and her 709 Jaguar sisters, especially in this year as we rededicate ourselves to the charism of the Sisters of the Congregation of St. Joseph and the goal to “serve the dear neighbor.” Your gift to the young women entrusted to our care, no matter no matter the size, will be big to them. *Not her real name.

Giving Stock Could be More Beneficial than Giving Cash Giving appreciated stock to Saint Joseph Academy is a wonderful way for you to help us continue our mission while receiving significant tax advantages. Why? It’s likely that the stock you own is highly appreciated from the time you bought it.

Gifting stock gives you a tax deduction on the fair market value of the stock on the date the transfer, regardless of its purchase price, and capital gains tax is avoided.

To Make a Gift of Stock To notify Saint Joseph Academy of your intention, please contact the Advancement Department with your donor information, name and the number of shares, the date you intend to make the gift, and where you would like SJA to apply the funds (i.e. Annual Fund, Scholarships, Unrestricted, etc.). SJA will email you the information to share with your broker to facilitate the gift transfer and provide you with an appropriate acknowledgement for tax purposes upon receipt of your gift.

Thanks To All Who Participated in Our Golf Outing 2014 The 20th Annual Golf Outing took place on Saturday, August 2, 2014 at Mallard Creek Golf Club in Columbia Station. More than 125 people enjoyed a day of golf, three delicious meals, raffles and contests. Almost $17,000 was raised to support the students of Saint Joseph Academy!

Special thanks to all who helped to make this event such a big success, especially the 2014 Golf Outing Committee: Rosanne Tinnirello Kelley ’76 (event chair), Donna Busser ’73, Denise Tinnirello Chomoa ’78, Jane Cochran ’74, Eileen Murray Dooley T’43, Beth Durkin ’78, Michele Ehrbar ’72, Debbie Nagy Forthofer ’77, Kathleen Colleran

Goldbach ’62, Carol Wasserbauer Milligan ’59, Vicki Bachenskas Plata ’67, Mary Ellen Lanning Rogers ’77 and Dody Winkler ’75.

We especially thank the following people and businesses who sponsored this year’s outing: LUNCH SPONSOR: Avalon Foodservice, Inc. JAGUAR SPONSOR: Saint Ignatius High School BREAKFAST SPONSORS: Conrad’s Tire Express & Total Car Care/Ed Conrad & Joan Dever Conrad ’49 Master Printing & Mailing Schoolbelles The Alpha Group Agency

BEVERAGE SPONSORS: ASAP Fitness Donley’s, Inc. Matthew J. Messina, DDS SP Mount Printing Company HOLE SPONSORS: Chuck & Maureen Fallon Adler ’79 Brennan’s Catering & Banquet Center CBIZ, Inc. Chambers Funeral Homes Charles P. Canepa, D.D.S., M.S. Ret. Honorable Colleen Conway Cooney & Mr. John G. Cooney Congregation of St. Joseph Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis ’71 The Draves Family Barbara McEntee Durkin ’53 & Family

To explore the many ways you can make a lasting impact on Saint Joseph Academy, please contact a member of our Institutional Advancement Department for a confidential conversation: Constance Sipple, CFRE Vice President 216.671.0166 csipple@sja1890.org 16

Mary Ann Fischer ’66 Alumnae Director 216.619.1653 maf@sja1890.org

Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE

Geoff Powers Development Director 216.619.1938 gdpowers@sja1890.org

Mary Lou Wasmer Durkin ’54 & Family Ebner & Rose Orthopedics Edible Arrangements The Honorable Brian Hagan Linda Kane ’75 Lakeside Supply Maloney & Novotny, LLC Maximum Velocity & The Fischer Family The McGorray Family McGraw & McGraw Co LPA/ Mary Haas McGraw ’75 Mike Mural Building Contractors Moves Made Easier Norris Brothers Co., Inc. Nowak Tour & Travel Dr. Casey O’Conor Orthodontics Jeff & Anne Marie Carey Pecon ’71 Printing Partners Regency Construction Services, Inc. Stripmatic Products, Inc. SJA Summer Staff Seeley, Savidge, Ebert & Gourash Co., LPA Patrick Sweeney Villa Beach Communications West Park Dental Wiemels-Hiros Plumbing

Thank You For a Successful Capital Campaign!

Linda Kane ’75

Paul G. Clark

In addition to our 125th birthday, Saint Joseph Academy has many reasons to celebrate this year. 1,020 to be exact! That’s the number of alumnae, parents, faculty, staff and friends who helped us make history with over $7.1 million dollars in support of the Expanding Minds — Building Futures — Raising Leaders capital campaign. This is the largest campaign goal ever reached at the Academy!

Special thanks to the Expanding Minds — Building Futures — Raising Leaders Campaign Committee for the gifts of their time, relationships and resources:

Howley Terrace & Scholars' Porch - before

Honorary Campaign Co-Chairs: Sandra & Thomas Sullivan, GP ’13 & ’16

after

Campaign Co-Chairs: Paul G. Clark & Linda M. Kane ’75 Campaign Steering Committee: Kathleen Carey CSJ ’49, Nancy Slominsky Charney ’77, John G. Cooney, Barbara Peris Draves P’12, Mary Lou Wasmer Durkin ’54, P’77, Tom & Lori Hanson P’99 & ’04, Lorie Howley, AJ Hyland, P’17, Joyce Joecken CSJ N’61, Mary Jordan ’79, Bill & JoAnn Aerni Kahl ’82, P’09 & ’14, Keith Libman, Michael Lonsway P’18, Mario Morino P’10 & ’13, Mary Grace Pattison, Anne Marie Carey Pecon ’71, Audrey & Albert Ratner and Mary Lou Vrnak Stricklin ’61.

Dining Hall - before

Most important, a heart-felt thanks to all of our donors who embraced our vision of providing a 21st century transformational education in an environment that is safe, healthy and technologically stimulating.

Thank you today and for all the tomorrows!

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Grand REUNION

Alumnae Enjoy Grand Reunion Weekend More than 300 alumnae spanning eight decades attended all or parts of the Grand Reunion held October 10-12 – a celebration that included a Homecoming Mass that was the kick-off for a yearlong celebration of Saint Joseph Academy’s 125th anniversary. As the Class of 1964 reminisced about the 50 years since they left Saint Joseph Academy, attendees from the Class of 2009 had plenty to recount of life changes in the past five years. Sr. Catherine Pinkerton (formerly Mary Pius), CSJ, ’39, was the most senior alumna to attend.

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All Alumnae with graduation years ending in a “5” or “0” are invited to next year’s Grand Reunion weekend of October 9-11, 2015. See you there!

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Memoriam In

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

Rosemary Mullen Schwarz ’39 on the death of her husband, Joseph Walter Schwarz, Jr., and on the death of her son, Albert Schwarz.

Concetta Isabella Casaregola T’41 on the death of her brother, Louis Isabella.

Rosemary Nice Murphy ’44 on the death of her husband, John Thomas Murphy.

Dolores Koch Rourke ’47, Sr. Audrey Koch, CSJ ’54, Roseanne Koch Sopuch ’61, Mary Jean Koch Range ’64, Margaret Koch Bednar N’66, and Florence Koch Murray N’68 on the death of their brother, Arthur Koch.

Sr. Agnes Schreiber, CSJ ’49 on the death of her sister, Mary Louise Schreiber Kubat ’54.

Kathleen Krach Koster ’50 on the death of her husband, Norbert Koster.

Mary Therese Baach Hartnett ’51 on the death of her husband and Linda Hartnett Wasco ’79 and Mary Kay Hartnett Umerley ’80 on the death of their father, Cornelius Hartnett.

Mary Lou Koch Turner ’51 on the death of her daughter and Julie Turner ’83 on the death of her sister, Nora Turner Krystynak ’86.

Marilyn Russ Schabel ’54 on the death of her son and Jeanne Schabel Hritz ’73 on the death of her brother, James Schabel.

Marilyn Kaspick Wilson ’54 on the death of her sister, Dolores Kaspick Banach ’52.

Joan Haytas Kilbane ’55 on the death of her husband, John “Mickey” Kilbane.

Helen Kilcoyne Malloy ’55 on the death of her husband and Therese Malloy Hannaford ’78 on the death of her father, William Malloy.

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Alice Oster Meder ’55 on the death of her brother, Brother Thomas Oster, J.S.M. Rosemary Coon Burns ’56 on the death of her sister, Kathleen Coon Liskey ’49.

Judith Kilbane-Koch ’56 on the death of her sister, Kathleen Kilbane.

Kathleen Brown Bowman ’57 and Patricia Brown Legarth ’61 on the death of their brother, Robert Brown.

Ann Marie Bartkowiak Medve ’63 and Barbara Bartkowiak ’66 on the death of their mother, Helen Bartkowiak.

Karen Szentkeresti N’69 and Janet Szentkeresti Fuldauer N’72 on the death of their mother, Rita Billick Szentkeresti T’44.

Kathleen Gerrity Pelko ’63 and Maureen Gerrity Byrne ’67 on the death of their brother, Robert Gerrity.

Mary Kay Quinlan Gillick ’70 on the death of her sister, Betty Quinlan Dittert-Zadravec ’72.

Joyce Marcy N’63 on the death of her brother, Robert Marcy.

Anne O’Heren Jakob ’65 on the death of her brother, Richard O’Heren.

Mary Lou Muellauer O’Braitis ’57 on the death of her brother, John Muellauer.

Carol Wagner Jakstas ’66 on the death of her sister, Diane Wagner Ball ’60.

Sr. Elizabeth Lavelle, CSJ ’59 on the death of her sister, Judith Lavelle.

Clare Eble Ruffing ’66 on the death of her father, John Eble.

Janet Soltow McGill ’59 on the death of her sister, Jean Soltow.

Marlene Jurca Witouski ’60 on the death of her brother, Lawrence Jurca, Sr. Claudia Dian Jabo N’60 on the death of her husband, Robert Jabo.

Mary Ellen Slane N’60 and Ann Slane Sluman N’67 on the death of their father, Edward Slane.

Betsy Vargo Graziano ’61 on the death of her son and Tracy Graziano Keil ’85 on the death of her brother, Jeffrey Graziano.

Gloria Trebets Chambers N’61 on the death of her mother, Sylvia Trebets.

Moira Stroh Corrigan ’62 on the death of her brother, Edwin “Pat” Stroh.

Wanda Sir Sniezek ’62 and Donna Sir ’73 on the death of their sister, Victoria Sir Cooney ’64.

Penny Coyne Dixon N’62 on the death of her father, John Coyne.

Felicia Pogonowski Silcox N’62 on the death of her stepdaughter, Margaret Steffen.

Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE

Mary Jane Bisesi Neel N’66 and Sue Bisesi Reilly N’69 on the death of their father, Ignatius Bisesi.

Linda Gasho Huesman N’67 on the death of her brother, James Gasho.

Barbara Kocab Jones N’67 on the death of her father, Joseph Kocab.

Joanne Kozak McEnneny ’70 on the death of her father, George Kozak.

Rita Smith N’70 on the death of her sister, Elisabeth Smith.

Christine Rybak Vogt ’70 on the death of her husband, Robert Vogt, and on the death of her mother, Beatrice Kubes Rybak ’48.

Therese Benninger Kowalski N’70 and Mary Benninger Truax N’80 on the death of their father, Lawrence Benninger.

Loretta Fitzgerald ’71, Margaret Fitzgerald Kroon VanDiest ’72, Mary Jo Fitzgerald Woodruff ’80, and Anne Fitzgerald Carey ’83 on the death of their mother, Agnes Fitzgerald.

Kathy Rutt Moir N’67 on the death of her father, Casimir Rutt.

Maureen Gorman Mayer ’71 and Margaret Gorman Samenuk ’74 on the death of their mother, Mary Gorman.

Catherine Brinda Hauck ’68 on the death of her father, Leonard Brinda.

Karen Malleske Logeman N’71 on the death of her father, Joseph Malleske.

Bernadine Hilinski Weiss ’68 and Cindy Hilinski Friedermann ’78 on the death of their father, Joseph Hilinski.

Mary Ann Bar Walczak N’71 on the death of her husband, Raymond Walczak.

Mary Beth Felty Evans N’68 on the death of her mother, Eleanore Felty.

Kathleen Ansberry D’Aquila N’72 and Patti Ansberry N’73 on the death of their mother, Mary Lou Ansberry.

Christine Merunski Mezquita N’68 on the death of her father, John Merunski.

Mary Marusa Carney N’72 on the death of her father, Vincent Marusa.

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

Ellen Polomsky Hibjan N’72 on the death of her mother, Eleanor Polomsky.

Eileen Murray Waldegar ’69 o n the death of her father, William Murray.

Patrice McCullough Schmitz N’72 on the death of her mother, Carla McCullough.

Bernadette Verardi White ’73 and Barbara Verardi Plack ’73 on the death of their mother, Jeannette Verardi.

Jacquelyn Bishop-Klee N’77 and Judy Bishop McNiece N’78 on the death of their father, James Bishop.

Teresa Karsnak ’79 and Amy Karsnak Bornhorst ’84 on the death of their sister, Maribeth Karsnak Edgley ’75.

Margaret Hofstetter N’73 on the death of her sister, Mary Hofstetter Gyorok N’63.

Laura Galek Dziak N’77 on the death of her father, Donald Galek.

Judith Hodgett Malorana N’79 on the death of her mother, Barbara Hodgett.

Judy Cooney Kilbane ’74 and Maureen Cooney Getts ’81 on the death of their father, Thomas Cooney.

Mary Weishar ’74 and Eve Weishar ’75 on the death of their mother, Anne Weishar.

Therese Rohrbach Hopkins N’74 and Cheryl Rohrbach Rolnicki N’80 on the death of their mother, Dorothy Rohrbach.

Kathleen Leary Wanecke N’74 and Colleen Leary Johnson N’76 on the death of their father and Kay Leary Johnson N’61 and Patricia Leary Doran N’64 on the death of their brother, Lynn Leary.

Cynthia Cianciolo ’75 and Sandra Cianciolo ’76 on the death of their father, William Cianciolo.

Mary Prada Tabbaa N’75 and Debbie Prada Nowak N’78 on the death of their mother, Agnes Prada.

Maureen Barendt Beyer ’76 and Virginia Barendt Dober ’79 on the death of their mother, Kathleen Griffin Barendt ’48.

Pam Staebler Marlowe ’76 on the death of her father, John Staebler, and on the death of her brother, Mark Staebler.

Andrea Karwoski Kuntz N’77 on the death of her mother, Jeanette Karwoski.

Christine Wilson Slivka N’77 on the death of her mother, Anna May Wilson.

Linda Vasil N’77 on the death of her mother, Dolores Vasil.

Kimberly Bakota Goubeaux ’78 and Kelley Bakota Feerer ’81 on the death of their father, Jerald Bakota.

Mary Hoban Hartline ’78 and Suzanne Hoban Hoffman ’83 on the death of their mother and Abigail Donahue O’Donnell ’48 on the death of her sister, Virginia Donahue Hoban ’49.

Lynn King Lumbrezer ’78, Maureen King Huss ’79, and Nancy King Marszal ’81 on the death of their father, James King.

Laura Volle ’78 and Cynthia Volle Swartz ’84 on the death of their mother, Gloria Volle.

Kathleen Bialecki Long N’78 on the death of her mother, Rose Marie Bialecki.

Jill Maleckar Turrington N’78 on the death of her sister, Jackie Maleckar Barton N’72.

Michelle Budzek Brodrick N’76 on the death of her mother, Dorothy Budzek.

Debbie Zubricky Lowry ’77 on the death of her mother, Mildred Zubricky.

Nancy Woisnet Moye ’77 on the death of her mother, Helen Kearney Woisnet T’43.

Cheryl Hagan O’Malley ’77 and Kellie Hagan King ’78 on the death of their mother, Mary Catherine Hagan.

Melissa Kaloczi Reilly ’77, Celeste Kaloczi Smith ’78, and Margaret Kaloczi Walter ’84 on the death of their sister, Cynthia Kaloczi Michelich ’82.

Jeanmarie Monahan N’79 on the death of her brother, James Monahan, Jr. Judy Bellflower Radin N’79 on the death of her mother, Carmela Bellflower.

Kimberly Archacki ’80 on the death of her father, Robert Archacki.

Colleen Bartoul Sarabi ’80 on the death of her father, Joseph Bartoul.

Michele Lapinski Carr N’80 on the death of her mother, Bernice Lapinski.

Mary Beth Hovanec Lenart N’80 on the death of her father, Emory Hovanec.

Nadija Vodopivec N’80 on the death of her mother, Antonietta Vodopivec.

Corinne Kelley Beckner ’81 on the death of her father and Joan Kelley Gallagher ’49 and Sheila Kelley Birt ’51 on the death of their brother, Terrence Kelley.

Maureen Murphy Bonifas ’81 on the death of her mother, Margaret Murphy Ryan.

Mary Jane Engle DeWitt ’81 and Caroline Engle Strumbly ’82 on the death of their father, Donald Engle, Sr.

Michelle Sherman Flynn ’81 on the death of her husband, John Flynn.

Eileen Feddrix McTighe ’81 on the death of her mother, Catherine Feddrix.

Helen Hunt Walker ’81 on the death of her brother, Paul Hunt.

Maureen Casey Brubaker ’82 and Patricia Casey ’84 on the death of their father, Thomas Casey.

Shelly Dukes Bracken ’83 on the death of her mother, Jacqueline Dukes.

Rochelle Prudhoe Molnar ’83 on the death of her mother, Ann Prudhoe.

Coletta Shoemaker Schabel ’83 on the death of her mother, Coletta Caine Shoemaker T’47.

Therese Dever Griebel ’84 on the death of her husband, Dwayne Griebel.

Kelly Grady Phelps ’84 on the death of her mother, Nancy Grady.

Cassandra Schwartz Robertson ’84, Jennifer Schwartz Garcia ’94, and Hilary Schwartz Keberdle ’96 on the death of their father, Thomas Schwartz.

Adelaide Koran Taylor ’84 on the death of her father, John Koran.

Debra Hargis Wagner ’84 on the death of her father, Donald Hargis.

Rebecca Bein McCarter ’93 on the death of her father, John Bein.

Shannon Gallagher ’04 on the death of her mother, Susan Gallagher.

Please remember in your prayers the following deceased alumnae.

Sr. Angela Kelly, CSJ ‘32 Rosemary Gabriel Kodger ‘37 Kathleen Armbruster T’40 Sr. Eileen Duffy, CSJ ‘41 Dorothy Gayneau Schmotzer ‘41 Helen Kearney Woisnet T’43 Rita Billick Szentkeresti T’44 Mary Coletta McAndrews Gindle ‘45 Sr. Mary Gerald McDermott, CSJ ‘46 Elberta Galestok Cemes T’46 Dorothy Lash ‘47 Sharlane Anderson Oster ‘47

Coletta Caine Shoemaker T’47 Kathleen Griffin Barendt ‘48 Nancy Klein Killeen ‘48 Beatrice Kubes Rybak ’48 Virginia Donahue Hoban ‘49 Kathleen Coon Liskey ‘49 Dolores Kaspick Banach ‘52 Colette Munley Mills ‘52 Mary Louise Schreiber Kubat ‘54 Vera Weekley Rutz ‘55 Priscilla Stuart Korney ‘57 Diane Wagner Ball ‘60

Nancy Rich Celis N’60 Judith Sopko Poth ‘62 Mary Hofstetter Gyorok N’63 Kathleen Panovec Lippert N’63 Victoria Sir Cooney ‘64 Martha Pugacz O’Neill ‘66 Betty Quinlan Dittert-Zadravec ‘72 Jackie Maleckar Barton N’72 Maribeth Karsnak Edgley ‘75 Cynthia Kaloczi Michelich ‘82 Lisa Ihnot Lawler ‘84 Nora Turner Krystynak ‘86

Saint Joseph Academy FALL 2014

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Beyonds

CubClub

Alumnae

1950s

The SJA Class of 1953 will hold its semi-annual reunion at Don’s Pomeroy House in Strongsville on Thursday, May 14, 2015 at 1 p.m. Please call Pat Zak Roth ’53 (440.268.8229) or Donna Smith McCafferty ’53 (216.941.7298) for reservations.

1960s

Martha Kosarko Fyfe N’63, who spends her winters in Punta Gorda, Florida, is involved in a number of volunteering opportunities there. In addition to leading a landscaping renovation project in her community and volunteering to raise awareness of and support for the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra, Martha is also involved with the Peace River Wildlife Center. This non-profit organization takes in injured wild animals and treats them with the hope of releasing them back into the wild. One of Martha’s duties at the Center is taking injured alligators for walks!

1970s

Mary Kay Carey Adamczyk ’76 married Edward Adamczyk on July 7, 2014. They currently reside in Westlake, Ohio.

1980s

Dianne Dzurilla Williams ’81 recently completed her Doctorate in Management, Leadership and Organizational Change.

She has been at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital for 10 years, specializing in program development as the former Director of the Fetal Surgery Center and currently as the Director of Physical Resources in Patient Services.

1990s

Gina Morris ’99 was included in the Crain’s Cleveland Business “Forty Under 40.”

Gina works as the Director of Marketing and Public Relations for the Downtown Cleveland Alliance, where she works on events and spreads the good news about Cleveland both locally and across the nation.

Kristen Volle Zacharias ’99 married Dr. Michael Zacharias at St. Colman Church on April 26, 2014. Her sisters, Jennifer Volle Wawszkiewicz ’97 and Sara Volle Schneider ’01, and cousin, Megan Sanniti ’09, were in her wedding party.

2000s

Genie Reeves Goricki ’00 married Robert Goricki on June 7, 2014 in Cleveland, Ohio.

The couple honeymooned in Kauai, Hawaii, and reside in Lakewood, Ohio.

Elly Maranos ’00 married David Turacek in Niagara Falls, New York, on July 29, 2014. She is a freelance Public Relations & Promotions Consultant.

Beth Rath ’04 recently moved back to Cleveland, and is teaching Philosophy at Borromeo Seminary. She resides in University Heights.

Emily Gehring ’06 graduated in May from Cleveland Marshall College of Law with a Juris Doctor degree.

Julie Semenec Milavec ’06 married Adam Milavec at St. James Church on May 17, 2014. Monica Laco Simmons ’06 was one of her bridesmaids. Julie and her husband reside in Edinburgh, Scotland, where Julie is working on a Master of Science degree in Occupational Therapy at Queen Margaret University.

Marie Dantio Robinson ’06 married Andrew Robinson at St. Brendan’s Church

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Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE

Colleen Leslie Codispoti ’95 & Vincent Codispoti a son, Antonio Michael, born October 8, 2013 Laura Grabiec Conyngham ’95 & Alex Conyngham a son, Dean, born May 19, 2014 Claudia Smyczek Raleigh ’96 & Mark Raleigh a son, August Roland, born May 9, 2014 Kathrin Martens Salgat ’98 & Michael Salgat a daughter, Madeline Olivia, born September 3, 2014 Anna Krupar Pack ’99 & Brandon Pack a son, Hunter, born September 7, 2014 Adela Torres Garcia ’00 & Jose Garcia a daughter, Gabriela Maria, born January 24, 2014 Sheena Burke McConkey ’00 & Fran McConkey a son, Kyler, born March 13, 2014 Nicole Mayer Cadiou ’03 & Jonathan Cadiou a son, Zachary Reese, born August 30, 2014

on May 17, 2014. Her sister, Emily Dantio ’08, was her maid of honor and friends, Brigid Dober Danziger ’06 and Aley Rodriguez Pesto ’06 were bridesmaids. Marie graduated from The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine in May of this year. She was awarded an internship from Carolina Veterinary Specialists located in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Emily Dantio ’08 graduated last December with an Master of Business in Accounting from Baldwin Wallace University. She began her professional career in January of this year with the accounting firm Baumgarten & Co., located in downtown Cleveland.

Josslyn Konczos Grijak ’08 married Mark Grijak at St. Michael the Archangel Church in Cleveland, Ohio on October 11, 2014.

Other alumnae in the wedding party were Nina Rivera ’08, Nicole Spinazze ’08, and Megan Masters ’08.

IRA Charitable Rollover As this issue goes to print, the status of the IRA Charitable Rollover provision for individuals age 70 ½ and older is in limbo. Congressional action is still required to revive the law for 2014 and beyond. The provision may be made permanent, and it may be part of a larger package of “tax extenders.”

SAVE THE DATE SAVE THE DATE CE LEBR ATE THE AC A DE M Y CELEB R ATE THE AC ADEMY

We will share any news with via eBlast and our website once it is confirmed.

Alumnae

PLEASE JOIN SAINT JOSEPH ACADEMY PLEASE JOIN MEDAILLE SAINT JOSEPH ACADEMY AS WE HONOR SHIELD HONOREES , WE HONOR SHIELD HONOREES , THE AS SISTERS OF THEMEDAILLE CONGREGATION OF ST . JOSEPH .

THE SISTERS OF THE CONGREGATION OF ST . JOSEPH .

Would you like to hear about the special events and activities

!

NEW !

W NE

taking place at Saint Joseph Academy?

Update your information at www.sja1890.org/aluminfoupdate to receive our monthly e-update!

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2015 SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2015 Saint Joseph Academy Saint Joseph Academy 3470 Rocky River Drive • Cleveland, Ohio 44111 3470 Rocky River Drive • Cleveland, Ohio 44111 The event begins at 6 PM The event begins at 6 PM

Special thanks to our event chairs: Special to our event Mary thanks Smetana Kolick '83,chairs: P '15 Mary Smetana Kolick '83, Mary Ellen Prunty Kraus '75, P P'11'15and '14 Mary Ellen Prunty Kraus '75, P '11 and '14 For more information, or to register for the event, For more register for the event, please visitinformation, our websiteorattosja1890.ejoinme.org/home please visit our website at sja1890.ejoinme.org/home

Join Us for Christmas Outing to Huntington Playhouse!

Please join fellow alumnae for a special "SJA only" performance of "It's A Wonderful Life" at Huntington Playhouse on Thursday, December 11. A pre-show reception with coffee and dessert will start at 6:30 p.m. Curtain time is 7:30 p.m. Cost is $23 per person, with all proceeds being donated to SJA scholarship funds. SJA has reserved the entire playhouse for this performance, general

admission seating. As a special treat, SJA's own Mike Kunikis, Social Studies teacher, stars as Mr. Potter!

Arrabiata's Italian Restaurant, 600 Dover Center Road, Bay Village, is partnering with us for this fundraising event. If you would like to have dinner at Arrabiata's before the performance, between 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., the restaurant will donate 10 percent of all food sales during that time to SJA. Reservations are required. Call 440.835.9100 for your reservation, which is required. The restaurant offers an "early bird" special menu from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Attention young alumnae in the classes of 2004-2014: There will be a special section reserved for you, for extra visiting time!

Please register early. For more information, contact the Alumnae Office at 216.251.6788 x245 or bhjort@sja1890.org, or visit www.sja1890.org/winterplayhouse Saint Joseph Academy FALL 2014

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

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

PARENTS OF ALUMNAE: If this publication is addressed to your daughter who no longer maintains a permanent address at your home, please notify the Alumnae Office at 216.251.6788 x221, or write to us at Saint Joseph Academy, 3470 Rocky River Drive, Cleveland, Ohio 44111.

In an effort to be good stewards of both the environment and your generous contributions, we are now sending only one magazine per household.

LOOKINGAHEAD SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS 2014 Once again, Saint Joseph Academy is decorating a “tribute” Christmas tree in the SJA Holy Family chapel. It will be decorated with very special angel ornaments, each sponsored to honor a loved one, or the memory of a loved one who has passed away. The tree will go up at the beginning of Advent and will remain on display until early January. During this time, the entire SJA community will pray for the individuals remembered on the tree ornaments. For more information, please visit www.sja1890.org/christmasangel.

125TH ANNIVERSARY SPEAKER SERIES

YOUNG ALUMNAE: COME HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS! Save the date! Members of the Classes of 2010-2014, this year's holiday homecoming gathering will be held Monday, December 29, from 6-8 p.m. at SJA. This year, we are celebrating over Christmas break. Don't miss this evening of fun and camaraderie with your sisters! Please RSVP by December 22 to Liz Kantor at lkantor@sja1890.org or 216-251-6788 x224.

ADMISSION TEST

Former United Nations representative for the worldwide Sisters of St. Joseph, Sr. Griselda Martinez Morales, CSJ, will speak at SJA at 7 p.m. on December 16. Topic is human trafficking.

Please see story on page 5. Please join us. All are welcome!

All 8th grade girls considering enrolling at SJA must take an admission test. Our admission test is scheduled for January 10, 2015 from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Please note that this test is for admission purposes only, not scholarships. Register at www.sja1890.org/admissionevents.

CHRISTMAS AT THE ACADEMY

"CELEBRATE THE ACADEMY"

All 2nd-6th grade girls are invited to “Christmas at the Academy” on December 19, from 6:30-8 p.m. Celebrate the spirit of the season at SJA! There will be arts and crafts projects, games and maybe even a visit by "Josie" Claus! Please bring along a non-perishable canned food item which will be donated to the Greater Cleveland Food Bank. There is a $5 fee per student.

Register at www.sja1890.org/admissionevents.

Join us at Saint Joseph Academy on Saturday, February 21, 2015, for "Celebrate the Academy." Special honorees are the Sisters of the Congregation of St. Joseph. For more information, see story on page 23.