Fall Update 2012

Sharing a Tradition of Excellence with Alumnae, Parents and Friends • www.sja1890.org • Fall 2012

National Merit Scholars Excel

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

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: Jennie Amodio, Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis ’71, Ann Doran ’48, CFRE, Mary Ann Fischer ’66, Betty Hjort, Susan Condon Love ’76, Mickie Matheis, Laura McCarty ’07, Geoff Powers and Constance S. Sipple, CFRE. Photography courtesy Susan Condon Love ’76, John Mulgrew, Laura McCarty ’07 and Ripcho Photography.

For more information or questions, please contact Constance S. Sipple, CFRE, Vice President of Institutional Advancement, at 216.671.0166 or csipple@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 compassionate leadership and service in a global society.

Cover Photo: National Merit Scholars L-R (top): Katherine Hutchinson, Julie Simmons L-R (bottom): Kelly Haller, Karen McGraw, Caroline Speice

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

We are truly blessed at Saint Joseph Academy!

We began this academic year with full enrollment, welcoming over 180 freshmen from 55 different Catholic and other middle schools. The busy summer of construction was completed on time, and the students have enjoyed the new Scholars’ Porch, Howley Terrace and dining hall. In fact, I don’t know what we did before we had all these marvelous news spaces. The Scholars’ Porch is just outside my office window, and I enjoy hearing the buzz of lunchtime conversations among the students or listening in on an English class al fresco in the autumn sunshine. We are truly blessed!

The Congregation of St. Joseph continues to be a presence on campus. They often join us for school Masses and many girls go “across the circle” to celebrate Mass with the Sisters in their Worship Space on Friday mornings. Sister Marietta Starrie, CSJ ’49 is back again in the role of “Sister on Campus,” often sharing the lunch hour with girls. We have put the Sisters to work, too, whether that is blessing the rings for our Junior Class or the new rowing boats for our Jaguar Navy. The students realize how fortunate we are to share our campus with these extraordinary women of faith. Although the Sisters are fewer in number and older in years, the bond between the students and Sisters is beautiful and cherished by all. We are truly blessed!

In this new academic year, we also are delighted to welcome Sister Phyllis DiFuccia, SSJ in the new role of Vice President of Mission. (See the story on page 7.) Modeled on similar positions in Catholic universities and hospitals, the primary focus of Sister Phyllis’s work will be with the SJA adult community, to help us deepen our understanding of the CSJ charism and then to put this spirituality into practice - in how we act and what we do at the Academy. We are being intentional in our efforts to learn and embrace this special gift, this charism, of unioning love given to the Congregation of St. Joseph. Sister Phyllis is eminently qualified to lead us on this journey, to strengthen our commitment “to bring all into union with God, each other and all creation.” We are truly blessed!

As we approach the season of Advent and prepare for the birth of Jesus, we reflect on the many blessings showered on Saint Joseph Academy: our wonderful students who are growing before our eyes; our caring parents who make so many sacrifices to provide their daughters this faith-based education; our dedicated faculty and staff, who also sacrifice much but share their gifts so generously; our loyal alumnae who lead their lives as faith-filled women; and our generous benefactors and friends, who contribute to the health and well-being of our school in countless ways.

Yes, we are truly blessed!

Sursum corda! Lift up your hearts!

Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis ’71 President Joseph Academy UPDATE

Five Seniors Excel in National Merit Scholarship Program

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eniors Kelly Haller, Katherine Hutchinson, Julie Simmons and Caroline Speice were honored this fall as Semifinalists in the 58th annual National Merit Scholarship Program, the most of any all-girls Catholic school in the area. Senior Karen McGraw was named a Commended Scholar. The four semifinalists have an opportunity to continue in the competition for National Merit Scholarships that will be offered next spring. The nationwide pool of Semifinalists and Commended Scholars represent less than one percent of U.S. high

L-R: Karen McGraw, Kelly Haller, Julie Simmons, Caroline Speice, Katherine Hutchinson

school seniors.

Caroline plans to study international business and is considering Georgetown, Marquette or Fordham universities. She is the sister of Katie Speice ’12.

Julie plans on studying mechanical or electrical engineering. The University of Cincinnati, Marquette or Purdue universities are among the schools she is considering.

Kelly, who plans on becoming a medical doctor, is looking at Duke, Vanderbilt or Miami Universities. She is the sister of Katie Haller ’11.

Katherine is undecided on her major, but hopes to attend Brown, Columbia or Ohio University.

Karen plans on studying engineering.

She is considering Lehigh University, Clemson University or Ohio State University. She is the daughter of Brian and Mary Haas McGraw ’75 and the granddaughter of Eileen Reidy Haas ’41.

“It has been my pleasure to see Katie, Julie, Caroline, Kelly and Karen develop their abilities since arriving at SJA. Each is a wonderful representative of SJA. Bravo!” said President Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis ‘71.

Academy Participating in Acclaimed College-Readiness Program This year, 16 students are benefitting from a multi-faced college readiness system called AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination), thanks to a $40,000 grant by the Eva L. and Joseph M. Bruening Foundation. SJA is the first parochial school in the city of Cleveland to participate in the AVID program.

“AVID is an internationally acclaimed program that improves students’ ability to be prepared for rigorous honors and Advanced Placement (AP) classes,” stated Assistant Principal Emily Hanson ’99, who recently attended an AVID seminar in Chicago. “It gives teachers and students a common skill set that will help prepare students for college-level coursework” “The program’s strategies for success are reinforced in AVID-specific elective classes, as well as throughout the entire SJA curriculum,” added Hanson.

“We are so grateful for the grant that enables us to be the first school in the city of Cleveland to offer this life-changing program. We know it has the potential to transform and enrich the academic lives of our students,” shared President Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis ’71.

In addition to the opportunities offered by AVID, more than 200 SJA students are currently taking more than a dozen Advanced Placement (AP) courses. AP classes offer students college credit while in high school, allowing them to be taught college-level curriculum.

Dr. James M. Cantwell Filling Role as Interim Principal SJA is delighted to welcome back Interim Principal Dr. James M. Cantwell. Dr. Cantwell served as interim principal in the 2010-11 school year, and again fills that role as a search is underway to fill the principal’s position.

“As I rejoin the Saint Joseph Academy community, I am struck again by what makes the Academy unique. In fact, the adjectives just flow: academically challenging, creative, welcoming and, of course, loving. Love of God, and each other is nurtured and sustained by the school’s founders and continuing sponsors, the Sisters of the Congregation of St. Joseph, as well as President Mary Ann Corrigan Davis ’71, the administration, the faculty, staff and students,” shared Dr. Cantwell.

Dr. Cantwell will continue to advance academic initiatives already underway: • Expanded Advanced Placement (AP) offerings in such subjects as Mandarin Chinese and Psychology.

• Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID), a college readiness system designed to increase schoolwide learning and performance (see side story).

• Implementation of the Advanced Placement International Diploma (APID), a globally recognized certificate for students with an international outlook.

The APID challenges a student to display exceptional achievement on AP Exams across several disciplines.

• Tweaking the Master Schedule to strengthen the foundation in two critical core areas – World Languages and Mathematics – as well as creating more opportunities for students to take yearlong courses and offer a greater selection of attractive electives (Sociology and Personal Finance, to name a few).

"Please keep in touch with any questions, comments or concerns. I am only an e-mail away (jcantwell@sja1890.org)!” stated Dr. Cantwell.

Welcome, Dr. Cantwell!

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Seniors Experience Prestigious Internships

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our seniors have an advantage in their future studies when it comes to engineering careers, scientific literacy, pathology and creative learning, thanks to prestigious internships at the Cleveland Clinic and an engineering services company.

Emily Armstrong worked at Fairview Hospital’s Moll Cancer Center under the mentorship of Dr. Debra Pratt, a breast surgeon, and Jean Ellsworth-Wolk, MS, RN, AOCNS, an oncological nurse specializing in breast cancer survivorship. “We worked on a study regarding breast cancer screening methods by different types of primary care physicians and how they affect the stage of breast cancer at the time of diagnosis,” shared Emily.

Kelly Haller and Maggie Bishop both spent the summer in the Medical Laboratory Internship Program at the clinic. In collaboration with the Pathology & Laboratory Medicine Institute, this program is designed to expose students to a wide range of career paths in the field of medical laboratory science. Kelly wants to study biomedical research in college and ultimately become a physician.

Senior Julie Simmons earned a spot as an intern with the prestigious Alphaport Internship Program conducting research alongside one of the company’s senior physicists. Julie’s work with Alphaport, an engineering services company that works on systems, products and solutions for aerospace, took place at NASA Glenn Research Center. Julie plans to major in mechanical or electrical engineering.

Senior Julie Simmons at NASA

L-R: Seniors Maggie Bishop, Emily Armstrong and Kelly Haller at the Cleveland Clinic

Students Explore Science, Technology, Engineering and Math Careers Students interested in science, technology, engineering or math (STEM) careers had two opportunities this fall to explore various aspects of the fields. First, 17 students visited General Electric’s headquarters in Nela Park, joining more than 75 other female high school students for the daylong conference “Women in

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Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE

STEM: Preparing for the Future with Confidence.” Activities included panel discussions featuring such speakers as Tina Taylor, Chief Quality Officer, GE Lighting; Jan Morrison, President and CEO, TIES (Teaching Institute for Excellence in STEM); Maryrose Sylvester, President and CEO, GE Lighting; and Dr. Lolita M. McDavid, Medical Director, Child Advocacy and Protection, Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospitals/Case Medical Center.

GE Executive Rebecca Bompiedi invited SJA to participate.

In a second field trip, 47 students from the Introduction to Engineering and Honors Pre-Engineering classes received an overview of the engineering profession, career outlooks and insight into college engineering programs during a trip to Cleveland State University’s Fenn College of Engineering. They were invited as members of Fenn Academy, a collaborative for high schools with Pre-Engineering programs. A highlight for the students was working in small groups to assemble a table that could support up to three heavy textbooks, using only a few sheets of newspaper and two feet of masking tape! Students also operated Segways in a large lecture room. They were accompanied on the field trip by Science teachers Mary Ellen Foley Scott ‘76 and John Lesko.

Exchange Student from China Experiencing Life at SJA Yolanda Zhu wasn’t at all nervous about moving to the United States from Shanghai to spend her junior year at Saint Joseph Academy. She had faith that her host family – the home of fellow junior Emma Mahall – would be welcoming. She also embraced the idea of being challenged academically. What did make her a little hesitant was, naturally, the language barrier.

“I’ve been learning English since I was in first grade,” shared Yolanda. “But everyone talks so fast. I was nervous about understanding what teachers were saying.”

The fear of falling behind because of a lack of understanding English has proven to be unfounded. “Everyone has been so nice.

The teachers are all helping me understand.

They are very patient,” stated a smiling

Yolanda.

Astoundingly, as she becomes more proficient in English, Yolanda has taken on the additional challenge of studying French while at SJA. But her all-time favorite subject is - as it was in China – math. “I love math,” she enthused. “In China, only boys are thought to like math. But I have always liked it. I am different. I want to be an accountant. ” Now that she is more comfortable, Yolanda is starting to enjoy other opportunities at SJA. “I am going to join the knitting club. I want to learn knitting.”

“Having Yolanda here is wonderful. It’s really opened up my eyes to the differences between two worlds and I love having a sister. I feel blessed to have Yolanda in our lives!” shared Emma Mahall. 欢迎, Yolanda!

Student Spending Junior Year in Japan Hailey Mertes ’14 had a tough choice last year. Should she spend her junior year abroad in Spain, Switzerland or Japan?

“I decided on Japan because I knew their culture and language were definitely something I’m not use to!” shared Hailey in an e-mail. “I have been in Japan for a little more than two months and I love it here. I live in Gifu Prefecture in central Japan. There is so much for me to do and see. Every day is an adventure, and I am always learning something, whether it’s the Japanese culture, traditions, history, or the language. I have been fortunate enough to already have visited Hiroshima, Kyoto, Kobe and Nagoya.”

Hailey attends a public co-ed school called Kano High school. “At school I get to see what life is like for Japanese teenagers.

The students work extremely hard. All my classmates love to ask me about my life in America and what it's like attending Saint Joseph Academy.”

“The Japanese people are so polite and the country is so clean,” she adds. “My proficiency in the Japanese language is improving every day. When I first got here, I only knew how to speak a little Japanese, but now I can read and write in Japanese and keep up my end in a basic conversation.”

“Japan is a beautiful and strong country.

I am so blessed to have this opportunity,” Hailey concluded.

For those interested in following Hailey’s Japanese adventure (or who wish to keep in contact with her), she is blogging about her experiences at http://haileymertes. blogspot.com/.

Senior Honored with Youth in Philanthropy Award

Senior Lauren Brooks was honored in November by the Association of Fundraising Professionals with the 2012 Youth in Philanthropy Award.

She was recognized with other donors and volunteers who have made significant contributions to Northeast Ohio nonprofits in a special National Philanthropy Day event.

At the banquet, which was attended by about 560 guests, Lauren spoke eloquently and confidently about the importance of volunteering at the Cleveland Rape Crisis Center and working with the center’s Youth 360 Program.

Her message of compassionate leadership was enthusiastically received by attendees!

For two years, Lauren and Caroline Pallotta ‘12 worked to establish a club at SJA called The SAVE (Sexual Assault and Violence Education) Campaign. Thanks to their efforts, more than 100 students have become involved in SAVE since its inception, taking on such projects as collecting clothes and toiletries to donate to the Cleveland Rape Crisis Center for hospital bags. These bags were given to women hospitalized after being raped or assaulted.

“We are very proud of Lauren and grateful for her dedication and hard work in Youth 360 and SAVE,” stated President Mary Ann CorriganDavis ‘71.

Lauren is the daughter of Peggy and Sam Brooks and sister of Kylie Brooks ’11.

Hailey Mertes ’14 can be seen in the middle.

Saint Joseph Academy FALL 2012

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45 Students Commissioned as Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist

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arents, students, faculty and staff filled the Academy Center in early October to celebrate the commissioning of 45 seniors as Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist. The students can now distribute Communion at all school Masses, as well as in their home parishes.

Congratulations to the following students: Emily Armstrong, Katie Battaglia, Maggie Bishop, Natalie Bittel, Emily Caja, MaryKate Caja, Jillian Chambers, Christie Dibbin, Brianna Dombo, Bridget Ellert, Claire Fitzgerald, Courtney Flynn, Caroline

Goodill, Halle Groudle, Amanda Hahn, Rita Hanna, Devanne Hargis, Mary Kate Healey, Kristen Hegeman, Nicole Hegeman, Caitlin Homcy, Elora Irizarry, Patricia Kay, Erin Keane, Erin Eileen Kelly, Ashley Klimczyk, Katie Kostell, Brenna McGrath, Karen McGraw, Nicole Mikolcic, Nichole Miller, Alexandra Mills, Angelina Morales, Melissa Reardon, Regina Russo, Ellen Saracina, Sarah Schwind, Sierra Speck, Julianna Spinazze, Virginia Sullivan, Madeline Tippie, Claire Violand, Annie Webster, Liann Winship and Emma Wolpert

Students Travel to El Salvador, West Virginia on Mission, Immersion Trips Some two dozen students traveled this past summer to places as near as West Virginia and as far away as El Salvador, spreading the charism and generous spirit of SJA. Students had life-changing experiences in two separate trips to El Salvador. CORE Ministry teachers Dan Guion and Elizabeth Pillari accompanied one group via the Cleveland Catholic Schools Immersion Program to learn about the struggles in El Salvador, the country where Cleveland area missionaries Jean Donovan, Sister Dorothy Kazel, Sister Maura Clarke and Sister Ita Ford were murdered in 1980.

On another El Salvador mission, Liyanna Chandler-Nieves ‘14 experienced the joy and hardships of the native children.

“I was in El Salvador for six days with Father Robert Reidy from La Sagrada Familia parish. I learned that there are people in the world who have close to nothing, but have

Homeless Campout Provides Important Lesson in Empathy It was cold. It was windy. It was damp. It was basically miserable. But in early October, nearly 60 students and three chaperones spent the night sleeping on the school’s track protected only by cardboard boxes, layers of clothing and sleeping bags. The point of the campout was to experience what a homeless person has to endure in all types of weather.

The Homeless Campout was organized by seniors Caroline Goodill and Sharlo Bayless, who incorporated Scripture readings and local and national facts about homelessness into the campout. “We believe it is important to experience the conditions that the homeless have to overcome,” shared Caroline. “It was

cold, but it truly opened our eyes to the challenges of those less fortunate.”

“It was a very lonely feeling in that box.

The night seemed long and endless, and it really made me feel for those people who have to spend not only one night, but every night like that,” shared Jailine Villavicencio ’14.

“At the beginning, I thought that the night was going to go by quickly. The weather was pretty mild. However, it got progressively colder throughout the night and even rained for a bit. That's when I started missing my bed and realizing how terrible it must be to live without a home,” stated Sharlo.

The chaperones sharing the cold, sleepless

L-R: Kiera Grady ’15, Olivia Kellogg ’16, Peri Long ’16, Jailine Villavicencio ‘14 night were College Counselor Maria Mueller, Physical Education teacher Marilyn McConnell and World Languages/Spanish teacher Ethan Saurwein.

all the faith in the world.”

Fourteen students spent a week in Kermit, W.V., working with children in an “Adventure Camp.” Activities included helping campers learn survival skills, build forts and play in the park, and at a local church pulling nails out of wood.

On second West Virginia trip, Grace Gutoskey Ogonek ’80, chair of the CORE

Ministry team, accompanied students to Wheeling, W.V. Students volunteered at the Catholic Neighborhood Center that was started by two sisters from the Congregation in Wheeling. Duties included sorting clothes, stocking the pantry shelves, preparing food and organizing a major donation of books that were distributed at the end of the week.

Students work on removing nails from wood on a trip to Kermit, W.V.

Students Emphasize Sanctity of Life at Downtown Mass, Rally Members of the Catholic Schools for Peace and Justice Club traveled downtown the first week of October to attend Mass at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist and march to Public Square in support of October “Respect Life” month. A total of 39 students from SJA joined their peers from a dozen schools in the Catholic diocese at the rally.

Sophomore Clare Sonby speaking at the “Respect Life” rally at right.

Sophomore Clare Sonby delivered a moving testimonial about the sanctity of life to the gathering on Public Square. In addition, members of the SJA Liturgical Choir sang at the Mass.

“Your mother made a decision to nurture you, and your needs during this time. Because of that, now you are living, creating and changing things, and dreaming all the things of the future of the world,” shared Clare. “But you had potential for such opportunities long before you were born.”

“It is such a privilege to be part of this every year,” stated Theology teacher Renee Brickman ‘91, a member of the CORE Ministry team. “The students who attend learn how to utilize their own voice in speaking about their beliefs.”

Students in El Salvador

Liyanna Chandler-Nieves ’14 in El Salvador

New Vice President of Mission to Promote Values, Charism of CSJs Sister Phyllis A. DiFuccia, SSJ, the Academy’s first Vice President of Mission, has only been at SJA for a few months, but she is already wellknown for her warm smile and welcoming demeanor. On her part, Sister Phyllis, from the Sisters of St. Joseph of Northwestern PA, is impressed with SJA’s vibrancy and dedication to mission.

Sister Phyllis brought with her a wealth of experience that included serving on her

Congregational Leadership Team, working as Director of Mission Effectiveness in a health system, and leading the all-girls Catholic high school Villa Maria Academy in Erie, PA. Sister Phyllis was also a member of the research team that studied the beginnings of the Sisters of St. Joseph in France.

“The relationship the school enjoys with the Sisters of the Congregation of St. Joseph is already strong,” stated Sister Phyllis. “The passion for mission and sharing God’s love is a vibrant component of Saint Joseph Academy.”

The role Sister Phyllis fills is vital to the Academy’s basic mission: She is here to

promote the mission and charism of the Sisters of the Congregation of St. Joseph and oversee the integration of the sisters’ values and charism into all aspects of life at the Academy. “I will be working primarily with the adult community: faculty, staff, alumnae, parents, board members, friends and supporters,” she shared. Sister Phyllis will collaborate with the teachers of our CORE (Christian Outreach and Religious Education) Ministry department, which will continue to have responsibility for the students in the classroom, on retreats and for service work.

Saint Joseph Academy FALL 2012

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S JA C ommunity C elebrates

New Dining Hall, Campus

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unny skies complemented the joyous mood Sunday, September 9, as a crowd of more than 600 sisters from the Congregation of St. Joseph, alumnae and friends of SJA celebrated the completion of a new dining hall and outdoor learning spaces with a special ribbon-cutting ceremony.

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Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE

Upgrades

Construction for this first phase of the Academy’s $7.8 million Capital Campaign Expanding Minds ~ Building Futures ~ Raising Leaders, had begun only six months before that sunny day. The renovation doubled the cafeteria space in the 1928 school building, as well as created a porch, terrace and rain garden. The remainder of the critical project will upgrade the original 85-year-old electric and heating infrastructure, and improve the fire suppression system, making the building safe, secure and comfortable so the girls entrusted to SJA may learn in a safe and nurturing environment.

The new, spacious dining hall overlooks the 44 acres purchased in 1898 in what is now West Park, by Mother Theresa Fitzmaurice of the Congregation of St. Joseph. The new dining hall allows Academy students to eat lunch, collaborate on projects, and access a range of multi-media technologies in both large and small group settings. The outdoor areas – The Scholars’

Porch and The Howley Terrace – are being used for both formal and informal programs. “ ‘On time and on budget’ are five words every owner and project manager loves to hear, and we did just that with this impressive and challenging project,” shared SJA President Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis ‘71. “It was on the Feast of our patron St. Joseph, on a bright and beautiful March morning, that we broke ground on this transformational project. The wonderful physical changes that awaited the girls as they came back to school – the new dining hall, The Howley Terrace and The Scholars’ Porch – are a testament to the dedicated group of men and women who worked so hard for the last five years to make it all happen.”

Before the ribbon-cutting, sisters, alumnae and friends of Saint Joseph Academy gathered in The Academy Center for a Donor Mass honoring all those who have contributed so much to the students of

Saint Joseph Academy in the past year.

We are diligently working to secure the additional $2.4 million needed for our critical health and safety improvements.

To learn how you can help, please contact Vice President of Institutional Advancement Constance S. Sipple, CFRE, at 216.671.0166.

Saint Joseph Academy FALL 2012

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Sports FALL

Soccer

What a strong season for Jaguar Soccer! Jaguars ended the season seeded third in the University Heights Playoff Sectional and ranked 10th in the Greater Cleveland Coaches Poll. Senior Niki Mikolcic, who has played all four years on Varsity, reached the impressive milestone of scoring her 100th career goal! Throughout the season, seniors Chelsea Hirzel, Lauren Brooks, Carolyn Gavin and Sarah Schwind stood out in scoring and defense, as did seniors Moira McGuire and Michelle Costanzo. Varsity advanced to the third round of the OHSAA District Tournament.

The program’s continued improvement is a result of the off-season work done by the players and coaching staff. More than 40 players attended the University of Findlay’s Team Camp, played in the Adidas National Showcase, NOSO Cup, Canfield Classic and indoor soccer league.

Senior Reaches Soccer Milestone Senior Niki Mikolcic reached the end of four years of Varsity soccer by scoring her 100th career goal! This rare accomplishment placed Niki in the ranks of top high school soccer players.

Varsity – 8-3-3 JV – 9-2-3 “I felt very relieved and happy to accomplish this difficult goal. It has taken a lot of hard work and pain to get something so worth it!,” shared Niki.

Niki has been playing soccer for 13 years and was the only freshman to be accepted on the Varsity team.

“I’m planning on playing soccer in college!” she said. Niki, who is planning to study either pre-vet or pre-med courses, is looking at attending Cleveland State University, the University of Findlay, The Ohio State University or Case Western Reserve University.

Ali DeCrane ’14

Tennis

Varsity consistently improved with every match and won seven of their final nine matches, earning their best record in six years! The second half of the season featured a first-place finish in the eight-team Triway Invitational. The Jaguars also won a round in the OTCA Coaches Cup tournament, which features the top teams in Northeast Ohio.

Junior Brooke Kahl started the season by being featured in The Plain Dealer’s “Locker Room” section on outstanding area high school athletes! Season highlights included No. 1 singles player Missy Drapac ’14 advancing to the third round of the Oberlin Sectional Tournament.

No. 2 singles player Brooke led the team with 22 wins and had a runner-up finish in the second singles flight at the Triway Invitational. The first doubles team of Claire Violand ’13/Sidney Ruebensaal ’14 were champions at the Triway Invitational. The second doubles team of Emily Rouse ’14/ 10 Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE

Brooke Kahl ’14

Grace Powers ’14 also were champions at Triway, and advanced to the quarterfinals in doubles at the Oberlin Sectional enroute to an 18-win season. Other highlights included a 21-win season for senior Claire Violand, who picked up a doubles victory

over Magnificat High School with fellow senior Ellen Saracina. Claire also teamed with Brooke to win five out of six matches at the Lakewood Doubles Tournament and advanced to the quarterfinals in doubles at the Oberlin Sectional.

Molly McAfee ’15, Allison Saracina ’15, Colleen FitzGerald ’16 and Ciara McGlynn ’14 led JV throughout the season, as they rotated between the first singles, second singles, and first doubles positions.

Varsity – 12-7 JV – 8-6

Cross Country

The 51-member team, coached by science teacher and seasoned runner Fred Kieser, began with a second-place showing at the Berkshire Early Bird Invitational, followed by a victory at the Westerville North Classic. A season high was at sixth-place finish at the tough Gilmour’s Primaue Invitational.

Throughout the season, senior Emily Bauer was consistently SJA’s first or second runner. Junior Alesha Vovk also improved tremendously, placing in the SJA top four in every meet, including a first runner at the Gilmour Invitational.

The strength of the team this year was its depth.

JV won three JV races, would have been first in two other JV races if they were scored, and won a Varsity race at Open Door. Consistent JV standouts are seniors Helen Steve and Bridget Egan, juniors Maddie Zimmerman, Maeve Kroeger, and Molly Moore, sophomores Clare Fibbi, Lauren Marconi, and Audrianna Farris, and freshmen Emma Stalder, Rachel Cogar, Katie Butterfield, and Bridget McGuire.

Golf

Varsity had a much-improved season in match play, as well as tournament golf.

Kaitlin Rose ’15 had solid performances all season, and both Alex Mills ’13 and Lindsey Keefe ’14 provided consistently good scoring that enabled the Jaguar Golf Team to have a winning match play record of 8 and 5.

Emily Bauer ’13

Kaitlin Rose ’15

Volleyball

Varsity had a challenging season with only four players returning from 2011-2012. Leading in stats for the season were Juliana Withers ’15 with 150 kills, Kira Rogozinski ’16 with 167 assists, Alison Rogozinski ’14 with 133 assists, Kerry Colatruglio ’13 with 258 digs, Julie Colaianni ’13 with 91 service points and Emily Lauch ’14 with 90 service points.

Varsity – 4-14 JV – 17-5 Freshmen – 18-4 Julie Colaianni ’13

Freshman Alicia Abele and seniors Patricia Kay and Katie Battaglia helped out with many scores in the 40s. The highlight of the season was placing fourth in the Sectional Tournament at The Legacy Golf Course and advancing to the District State Qualifier at the Legends of Massillon. Kaitlin, Alex, Alicia, Lindsay Keefe ’14 and Patricia all participated in Districts!

Athletic Boosters Donate Van Academy athletes are traveling in Jaguar style starting this year, thanks to the generous donation of a van by the school’s Athletic Boosters. The van - decked out in a Jaguar “wrap” - will be used primarily to transports student athletes.

Thank You Booster Families and Supporters!

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Upperclass Induction Ceremony Includes Moving Moment Members of the Class of 2014 were inducted into “upperclassmen” status on Wednesday, October 3, during a touching and joyful gathering in The Academy Center. Parents, faculty and fellow students celebrated with the 148 juniors as rings and red roses were distributed by Interim Principal James M. Cantwell, Ed.D. and President Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis ’71.

The ceremony, while special for all, had extra meaning for Rose Dolan. She was handed a class ring that had been worn by her late grandmother, Regina Marie Rochford Carey ’46, who passed away in January, 2004.

Rose Dolan shows off her legacy ring.

“When the time came for me to order my ring last year, my Mom noticed that all of the styles I liked were similar to the ring my Grandmother received in 1946. We still have the original box with $25.60 written on the lid,” shared Rose.

During the summer, Rose’s Mom had the ring polished. In another wonderful coincidence, Rose noticed that her grandmother’s engraved initials were very close to her own. “Her initials, RMR, were quite similar to mine, RMRD (Rose Michaela Regina Dolan). We had the ‘D’ added to the engraving.”

“In a way, I know she is watching over me now as I walk through the halls of the school she attended more than 65 years ago,” said Rose.

Pride Bowl 2012:

Perfect Weather, Jaguar Pride The weather was perfect and spirits were, well, at a fever pitch on Thursday, October 4, as students and faculty once again battled it out in “Pride Bowl.” The annual show of Jaguar strength and togetherness started out exuberantly with a Danceoff in The Academy Center for the Spirit Trophy.

Sophomores came out on top as the best dancers, showing their moves to a medley of top pop songs. The upperclasswomen won game one, advancing to play against the faculty. The final score was 22-14 in favor of the faculty. After the games everyone enjoyed a picnic on The Howley Terrace.

L-R: Freshmen Sarah Manzuk, Hannah Hill, Bridge Mahoney, Mariah Rodriquez The competition was fierce!

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Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE

L-R: Juniors Kayla Moore, Krupa Patel, Nicole Petrus

Welcome, Class of 2016 The halls are echoing with the voices of 665 students proudly calling themselves Jaguars!

Among the students are newly minted Jaguars, the 181 girls in the Class of 2016.

Here is a snapshot look at the freshman class: • The Class of 2016 represents 55 different middle schools.

• 79 percent of girls came from Catholic middle schools.

• 37 percent are legacies (have a mother, grandmother, aunt or sister graduate from the Academy).

• In addition to the mothers and grandmothers listed below, this class can boast they are following in the pawprints of 52 sisters and 82 aunts!

Legacies in the class are: Michaela Beno, daughter of Melissa Duchnowski Beno ’87; Annmarie Brady, daughter of Eleanor Micko Brady ’81; Kristin Deering, granddaughter of +Margaret Roberts Wynne ’41; Bridget Dickens, granddaughter of Bernadette Daly McCrone ’64; Molly Donahue, daughter of Erin Gallagher Donahue ’82; Delaney Famiano, daughter of Annemarie Pahler ’85; Alexandra

Freshmen Welcome!

The 181 members of the Class of 2016 had a boisterous and high-volume welcome to SJA on Friday, September 28, starting with an obstacle course in the Arcade as they arrived at school that included a limbo stick, small hurdles and, of course, lots and lots of seniors.

Seniors and their freshmen sisters (literally)!

Back Row, L-R: Kaylee and Devanne Hargis; Kaitlin and Paige Henegan; Rose and Ginny Sullivan; Julie and Morgan Reminder; Sara and Jiana Koussa.

Front Row, L-R: Molly and Emily Nar; Beth and Caroline Goodill; Nicole and Angelina Morales; Mary and Chelsea Hirzel.

Gribble, granddaughter of Sheila Begin Zimmerer ’54; Monica Hahn, daughter of Patricia Hayes Hahn ’89; Mary Hirzel, granddaughter of Trudy Kennelly Mayor ’59 and Mary Ross Hirzel ’63; Mariela Harris, daughter of Araceli Quintana Harris ’96; Molly Hirzel, daughter of Lisa Forrester Hirzel ’89 and granddaughter of Rosemarie Mazzella Forrester ’65 and Mary Ross Hirzel ’63; Julia Hoban, granddaughter of Frances Donahue Hoban ’49; Cassandra Hughes, daughter of Carol Galambos Hughes ’83; Samantha Jammal, daughter of Patricia Sebesta Jammal ’84 and granddaughter of Patricia Gornik Sebesta ’54; Haley Kaim, granddaughter of Karen Harkins Mollard ’66; Elizabeth Kittinger, daughter of Paula Moenich Kittinger ’91; Bridget Koehl, daughter of Kathleen Gallagher Koehl ’86; Kaleigh Lane, granddaughter of Nancy Coughlin O’Leary ’70; Kathleen Loftus, daughter of Maureen Sweeney Loftus ’80 and granddaughter of Bride Ann Gallagher Sweeney ’50; Bridget Mahoney,

daughter of Mary Jane Christyson N’75; Bridget McGuire, granddaughter of +Jeanne Price McGuire ’66; Megan McNeeley, daughter of Linda Baeslack McNeeley ’76; Molly Nar, daughter of Lisa Kovach Nar ’87; Renee Norris, granddaughter of Marie Rooney Norris ’62; Isabela Pauer, daughter of Maria Penzol Pauer ’85; Julie Reminder, granddaughter of Patricia Murphy McNamara ’61; Mary Rosepal, daughter of Michelle Radeff Rosepal ’83; Addie Schwartz, daughter of Kimberly Plisko Schwartz ’85; Brenna Shantery and Kelly Shantery, daughters of Barbara Mone Shantery ’83; Gina Shaver, granddaughter of +Lois Austin Shaver ’44; Angela Smith, daughter of Kathryn Roth Smith ’92; Eva Stanton, daughter of Barrie Sulzer Stanton ’78; Clare Tirpak, granddaughter of Sheila McDonald McNally ’55; Haley Yuhasz, daughter of Colleen Marquardt Yuhasz ’92; Anna Zingalis, daughter of Patricia Hennessy Zingalis N’77. + Deceased

Molly Hirzel ’16 and Kaleigh Tuck-Macalla ’13

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AlumnaeSpotlight: T he Sweeney family’s connections to Saint Joseph Academy spans decades – starting in 1944 and continuing today! It is a mutual admiration society and a lesson in how Christian values and beliefs are pillars upon which legacies are built.

The Sweeney Family Bride Ann still volunteers at her parish, St. Ladislas in Westlake, and enjoys coming to SJA activites such as Legacy breakfasts, Grandparents Day, Class of 1950 reunions, and a Class of 1950 breakfast three times a year at Gene’s Place in Kamm’s Corner.

Kathleen M. Sweeney ’75

L-R: Patricia Sweeney ’76, Maureen Sweeney-Loftus ’80, Kathleen Sweeney ’75, Mary Frances Sweeney Monroe ’83 and, seated Bride Ann Gallagher Sweeney ’50.

Bride Ann Gallagher Sweeney ’50 It was important to Bride Ann Gallagher Sweeney ’50 and her husband, the Hon. Gerald Francis Sweeney, that their daughters encounter the warmth and spirituality that could only be gained at their favorite Academy. It is a tradition started even before Bride Ann, who lives with her husband of 56 years in Westlake, was old enough to attend high school! Her older sister, Margaret “Peggy” Gallagher Lang ’48, would come home with stories for her baby sister about her wonderful high school experiences. Bride Ann is the mother of seven children – Kathleen, Patricia, Michael, Maureen, Martin, Mary Frances and Bride.

The daughters all attended Saint Joseph Academy. The boys went to Saint Ignatius High School. Bride Ann is the grandmother of 14. “What a blessing, as I grow older, that my granddaughters are now and will in 14

Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE

the coming years be exposed to what their mothers and grandmother have relished over the years. Amen!” she says. “My best friends from high school were my life-long best friends – (fellow 1950 graduates) Mary Stock Clark, Jean Ann Davis O’Malley, Helen McGilly Scanlan, Peggy Ball Weist and the late Rosie Jasko Wiseman.”

Although it’s been a lifetime since she was in a classroom, she still remembers that her favorite teacher was Francis Marie, CSJ ’26, her sophomore year homeroom teacher.

SJA is truly a family affair! Bride Ann’s five daughters, daughter-in-law Kate Dempsey Sweeney ’81, and granddaughters Molly Sweeney ’09 and Bride Sweeney ’10 are graduates. Three granddaughters are current students – Maureen Loftus ’14, Samantha Sweeney ’14, and Kathleen Loftus ’16. Her late sister-in-law was Patricia Sweeney McKinnon ’40. “Although my other sister, Mary Gallagher, did not attend the school, she became a CSJ.”

Kathleen M. Sweeney lives in Cleveland, enjoying a career as a Cuyahoga County Fiscal Office tax examiner. She has a Bachelor’s degree in urban studies from Cleveland State University. “My favorite memory from SJA is my very first experience … Freshman initiation!,” she shared. “For the Class of 1975, the theme was the Wizard of Oz. The seniors decorated the auditorium like Oz, and each freshman dressed like Dorothy." Kathleen’s favorite teacher was Theodore Kline, CSJ (English) and Mary Ann Fischer ’66 (Math).

“Both made learning enjoyable and really cared about the students!”

Kathleen volunteers at River’s Edge for events, is a Eucharistic Minister to the homebound at St. Vincent de Paul, and is an SJA class representative.

Patricia “Patty” Sweeney ’76 Patty Sweeney lives in Cleveland and has been married for 20 years to Paul McGuire.

She has a Bachelor’s degree in social studies/ education and Master’s degree in counseling from Cleveland State University. She has worked for 27 years as a counselor and assistant professor at Cuyahoga Community College, Western Campus. She also taught social studies at SJA from 1980-1985. “I cherish all the friendships and wonderful SJA traditions. I loved Ring Day and the Upperclasswomen Dinner, Tree Night, the father/daughter dances, singing ‘The Lord Bless You and Keep You’ and, of course, the Walk of the Roses at graduation!” Even her husband, Paul, has SJA connections. His sisters are graduates: Judith McGuire, CSJ ’57 and Gerry McGuire ’70.

Patty also fondly remembers her teachers.

“My favorites were Pat Kozak, CSJ ’64 (Theology), Nancy Conway, CSJ ’65 (Spanish) and Carole Chew N’70 (History).”

Patty’s involvement at SJA continues

– A Legacy of Love, Commitment and Support to this day. “I enjoy participating in the Women’s Leadership Symposium as a speaker, I loved working on the alumnae board, and I am still an active class representative. I also volunteer at the St. Nick Mass and other alumnae events, and am a strong supporter of the Expanding Minds ~ Building Futures ~ Raising Leader Capital Campaign”

Maureen “Mo” Sweeney-Loftus ’80

Lang and Annmarie Moher Nyikes. “There is a timelessness to Saint Joseph Academy. It has been a part of my life since infancy." Mo is an active supporter of the “Class of 1980 Challenge” to benefit both SJA’s Annual Fund and the Expanding Minds ~ Building Futures ~ Raising Leader Capital Campaign

Katherine “Kate” Dempsey Sweeney ‘81

Kate Dempsey Sweeney lives in Cleveland and has been married for 24 years to Martin J. Sweeney. She is mother to Molly Sweeney ’09, a college senior; Bride Sweeney ’10, a college junior; Samantha Sweeney ’14; and Margaret Sweeney, a third grader. Kate works as a Clinical Manager, Department of Vascular and Interventional Radiology, at the Cleveland Clinic. “I have been in this field for 25 years and in my current management position for 10 years.

I love the challenges of multi-tasking and decision-making.”

“I believe the friendships I made at SJA have supported me through the years.

Maureen Loftus ’14, Mary Gallagher, CSJ, Samantha Sweeney ’14, I enjoyed being in the Kathleen Loftus ‘16 environment of an all-girls school with teachers who knew degree in communications from Cleveland you and your family. I didn’t feel that I State University. She currently serves as a was getting lost in the crowd, something Democrat State Central Committee Person for Senate District 24 for the State of Ohio. especially challenging during the teen “The nuns told us we were capable of years.” Kate volunteers for the 4th Angel anything!” she points out.

Mentoring Program for patients with cancer Mo's favorite teachers were Mary Ann and attends many SJA sporting events and alumnae functions.

Fischer ’66 (Math), Kathleen Carey, CSJ ’49 (Art and Theology) and Carole Chew N’70 (History). Like her sister Kathleen, Mary Frances Mo volunteers as a Eucharistic Minister to Sweeney Monroe ’83 the homebound and lector at her parish, St. Mary Frances Sweeney Monroe lives in Angela Merici. She maintains friendships Avon and has been married for 24 years to with fellow 1980 graduates Maureen Jim Monroe. She is the mother of Megan, a Gibbons Harriman, Coreen Colbert college freshman, Riley, a high school junior, Stamper, Rita Hanna, Cathy O’Brien Mo lives in Fairview Park and has been married for 25 years to Greg Loftus. She is mother to Ryan, a college sophomore, and daughters Maureen Loftus ’14 and Kathleen Loftus ’16. Mo has a Bachelor’s

and Joseph, an eighth grader. Mary has worked as a registered nurse for the Sisters of St. Augustine of Charity for 26 years and currently works in the Cardiac Catherization Lab at St. John Medical Center. “I always wanted to be a nurse. I enjoy helping people and find the medical field very interesting.”

Her SJA connections are still strong. Her husband Jim’s sisters are graduates: Margaret Monroe Schreiber ’71, Eileen Monroe Benson ’72, Catherine Monroe Gulla ’75 and Maureen Monroe Brady ’77. “I remain very close with many of my 1983 classmates,” shared Mary. “We try to go on vacation every year together. In fact, we went to Naples, Florida, in early October – Karen Westfall Kurtzweil, Donna Salay Busch, Sue Hoban Hoffman, Eileen Flynn, Mary McConville Hough and Anne Callahan. Janet Russell Dorenkott, who attended SJA for the first three years with all of us, was our hostess.

Luann Aerni Polito ’82 has also joined us in the past. A little fun is always had by all – to say the least!”

Bride Sweeney Seifert ‘89 Bride Sweeney Seifert has traveled far from SJA in her life’s pursuits! She lives in Juneau, Alaska, with husband Jason Seifert. She has a Bachelor’s degree in psychology from The Ohio State University and Juris Doctor degree from William Mitchell College of Law in St. Paul, Minn. She has worked as an Assistant Attorney General since August 2012. “I love unraveling complex regulations and have a huge soft spot for seeing justice prevail.

Listening to my father, a retired judge, discuss sentencing in a humane, rational and humorous way gave me a great appreciation for the law.” Bride loves spending time in the mountains around Juneau with her husband and their canine companion, Mabel. She volunteers at the local homeless shelter once a month, and just recently began mountain search-and-rescue training.

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2012 Grand Reunion T

he SJA Grand Reunion, held October 5-7, proved to be grand, indeed! Festivities began Friday night at the school for the classes of 1997, 2002 and 2007, with 64 attendees renewing friendships and – as a bonus! – enjoying the new dining hall. Tours of The Scholars’ Porch and The Howley Terrace gave alumnae a feel for the exciting changes happening at the Academy.

On Saturday, 154 attendees for all classes ending in “2” or “7” reminisced at the Westwood Country Club. President Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis ’71 provided an update on the state of the Academy and Caroline Speice ’13 gave a student’s perspective.

On Sunday, 115 members of the Class of 1942, 1947, 1952, 1957 and 1962 gathered in the new dining hall for a wonderful morning of camaraderie and catching up. After the meal, they joined other SJA alumnae for a Homecoming Mass and open house.

“It was a wonderful weekend and we were so happy to see SJA alumnae gather and remember their high school days – and friends,” shared Alumnae Director Mary Ann Fischer ’66.

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Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE

Saint Saint Joseph Joseph Academy Academy FALL FALL 2012 2012

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Golf Outing 2012

M

ore than 125 people enjoyed a day of golf, raffles and contests at the Eighteenth Annual Alumnae Golf Outing on Saturday August 14, 2012 at the Mallard Creek Golf Club. Close to $20,000 was raised after expenses to support the students of Saint Joseph Academy!

Special thanks to all who helped to make this event such a big success, especially the 2012 Golf Outing Committee: Rosanne Tinnirello Kelley ’76 (event chair), Mary Beirne Bole ’69, 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, Christine Geiss Keuchel ’80, Carol Wasserbauer Milligan ’59, Mary Ellen Lanning Rogers ’77, Nancy Sweeney ’48 and Dody Winkler ’75.

L-R: Barbara Jean Sever, OSU ’64, Jim Forshey, Coletta Kahl Mulloy ‘64

We especially thank the following people and businesses who sponsored this year’s outing: LUNCH SPONSORS: Fairview Hospital Avalon Foodservice, Inc.

Michael Biehl & Eileen Baugh Biehl ‘75 Most Rev. Roger W. Gries, OSB, Auxiliary Bishop of Cleveland

JAGUAR SPONSORS: Deloitte Cleveland Indians

HOLE SPONSORS: Judge Colleen Conway Cooney & Mr. John G. Cooney Telefast Industries/Kathleen Durkin Ferry ’77 Giveaway Sponsor Jeff Pecon & Anne Marie Carey Pecon ’71 Lake Erie Graphics/Printing Sponsor Edible Arrangements/Michael Lonsway & Lisa Adkins Lonsway ‘84 Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis ’71 Villa Beach Communications SJA Summer Staff SIFCO Industries, Inc. Rita Ginley Andolsen ‘82 The Draves Family

BREAKFAST SPONSORS: Conrad’s Tire Express & Total Car Care Master Printing & Mailing The Alpha Group Agency BEVERAGE SPONSORS: Frantz Ward LLP Barbara McEntee Durkin ‘53 Terra Realty/Gary Lustic & Therese Durkin Lustic ‘61 SP Mount Printing Company Maloney & Novotny, LLC

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The McGorray Family Ebner & Rose Orthopedics ASAP Fitness OrthoWest Ltd. Mike Mural Building Contractors West Park Dental Norris Brothers Co., Inc. Watch It! Jewelry, Watches, Coins Lifeco Dr. Casey O’Conor-Orthodontist

Dr. Debbie Ghazoul-Mills ’79 Brennan’s Catering & Banquet Center Mike & Kathy Bryda Cleveland Indians Congregation of St. Joseph B. Durkin Family/Barbara McEntee Durkin ‘53

Regency Construction Services, Inc. Kamm’s Corners Development Corp.

Terra Realty/Gary Lustic & Therese Durkin Lustic ‘61 Chambers Funeral Homes McGraw & McGraw Co LPA/Mary Haas McGraw ‘75 SJA & Associates Productions Printing Partners Councilman Martin J. Sweeney & Councilman Martin J. Keane Kohlmyer Sports Joe Kalt & Ann Wilkins Kalt ‘76 Lakeside Supply Matthew J. Messina, DDS Daria Roebuck ’75 Kolick’s Jewelers Patrick Sweeney Nowak Tour & Travel Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur

Saint Therese Academy Alumnae Luncheon

Nazareth Academy Alumnae Reunion

An intimate gathering of Saint Therese Academy alumnae was held in early October at SJA. The luncheon was attended by 13 alumnae. After lunch, alumnae attended Mass in the Holy Family Chapel presided by Fr. James Becherer.

The Nazareth Academy Reunion was held on a perfect, sunny Sunday in September at the 100th Bomb Group Restaurant in Cleveland. It was attended by 84 Nazareth Alumnae and five former Nazareth teachers. Special recognition was given to to the Class of 1962, pictured above, who celebrated 50 years since graduation!

Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE

ADVANCING THE ACADEMY

“You make sacrifices. You do what you have to do.”

“John” (name changed at his request) is a parent who knows the meaning of the word sacrifice. His parents made sacrifices so that he could attend a Catholic high school, and now he is paying it forward.

“I wasn’t sure that I could afford Saint Joseph Academy. I was going to move to the suburbs so that my daughter could attend better public schools. But we wanted her to go to SJA. Catholic education is important. Faith is important. It’s what helps you through the ups and downs,” he says via phone when he has time to take a few minutes to share, which isn’t often. He works 60 and 70 hours a week to send his daughter to SJA. He also shares that he had recently put his car up for sale to help ease the financial burden, and that he is grateful for family support. “People say it’s

admirable, but it shouldn’t be,” he says. “It’s what you do for your family. It’s what you should be willing to do.”

When asked why he chose SJA, he has a lot to say. “It’s helping her to reach her first goals. Right now it’s made her first team.

Later, it will be going to college. You have to begin somewhere. That faith, that belief – it spreads like wildfire. I remember my first retreat, and knowing that she’s going to her first makes me feel good as a father. Those things stay with you.”

As we enjoy the holidays, it is our hope that you will think about John’s story as you consider making a gift to the young women of Saint Joseph Academy. Every gift, every dollar counts, in the same way that every young woman counts.

Nearly $1,100 of each young woman’s

education is paid by generous donors. We hope you will join us in helping parents like John.

We believe that every young woman is a success story whose first chapter begins here.

Giving Other Than Cash

Annual Fund Sustains, Enriches SJA Tradition

As you consider your year-end giving, we’d like to share options available to support today’s students in the traditions and values of the Sisters of the Congregation of St. Joseph.

Your gift to the Fund for SJA helps sustain a tradition of compassionate leadership through education that spans 122 years. We believe that each young woman can be a light in the world, and that SJA can offer them that first spark. We hope that you will add your light to ours by making a gift.

BEQUESTS. In order to assure the continued future of Saint Joseph Academy or to support scholarship assistance, you can name the school to receive a specific amount or percentage of your estate after designated distributions have been made. Or, simply draft a codicil to an existing will, saving the effort of rewriting the entire document.

Academy and continuing to pay the premiums during your life could result in a much larger gift than you ever could have imagined.

Example: A $1,000 premium per year could result in a death benefit of: Similar results would result from smaller or larger premiums. If you have a paid-up policy that you no longer need, you can simply change the name of the beneficiary to Saint Joseph Academy and the entire amount would support SJA upon the policy’s maturity.

Non-tobacco Standard Health Female

Starting Age

Death Benefit

45 50

55

$129,000 $102,000 $ 73,000

STOCK GIFTS. A stock gift can be readily made by merely contacting your broker and requesting that he or she transfer the number of shares needed to meet the amount you wish to donate, and providing the name and address of Saint Joseph Academy. Depending upon the purchase price and the current value, this can provide valuable tax benefits.

RETIREMENT INCOME. A gift from your retirement account can be passed to Saint Joseph Academy without being taxed by simply naming SJA the beneficiary.

INSURANCE GIFTS. An insurance policy provides the opportunity to create a much larger legacy gift through installment payments than you ever thought possible. Your purchase of a life insurance policy in the name of Saint Joseph

For more information, contact Planned Giving Specialist Ann Doran, CFRE, at 216.251.6788 or adoran@sja1890.org, or Vice President for Institutional Advancement Constance S. Sipple, CFRE, at 216.671.0166 or csipple@sja1890.org.

How Can I Make a Gift?

• Visit the SJA website at www.sja1890.org/donate • Complete the enclosed remittance envelope and mail your gift to Saint Joseph Academy • Contact our Development Office at 216.251.6788 x224 What Kind of Gift Can I Make?

SJA is appreciative of all gifts, regardless of the amount or method of contribution. We accept contributions to our Annual Fund in the following way: • Cash • Credit • Check • Gift of Stock How Can I Maximize My Gift to SJA? Matching gifts are a great way to double or even triple your support to SJA. More than 4,000 companies matched the gifts to their employees and retirees make to secondary educational institutions. Talk to your HR representative to find out more.

Saint Joseph Academy FALL 2012

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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.

Mary Jo Litzinger Barrett T’39 on the death of her sister, Barbara Litzinger Lasso T’41.

Barbara McLaughlin Swasay ’55 on the death of her brother, Daniel McLaughlin.

Patricia Wolf Gallagher N’63 on the death of her husband, John J. Gallagher.

Linda McAdam N’68 on the death of her mother and father, Helen and Walter McAdam.

Helen Arth McConville ’41 on the death of her sister, Loretta Arth Cleary ’40.

Angela Zenkert Courneya ’56 on the death of her sister, Mary Jane Atwell.

Gail Kovacic ’64 and Betty Lou Kovacic Turacy ’66 on the death of their brother, Charles Kovacic.

Monica Leicht Keller ’69 on the death of her mother, Dorothy Leicht.

Mary Alma Love Frolo T’44 and Therese Love Wyrzykowski T’45 on the death of their brother, Robert Love.

Donna Kelty Slowey ’56 on the death of her mother, Lucille Kelty.

Frances Nuzzo Wilhelm N’64 on the death of her mother, Anne Nuzzo.

Roberta Bett MacFarlane ’70 on the death of her husband, John MacFarlane, Jr.

Louise Boltz ’65 on the death of her mother, Eleanor Boltz.

Sharon Dempsey Scully ’70, Patricia Dempsey Joyce ’78, Jane Dempsey Borgmann ’79, Jennifer Dempsey Smith ’80 and Katherine Dempsey Sweeney ’81 on the death of their father, William Dempsey.

Judith Seppeler Furman N’68 and Nancy Seppeler Moran N’76 on the deaths of their mother and father, Rose Marie Krall Seppeler ’45 and Richard Seppeler.

Norma Jacobs MacBride ’48 on the death of her husband and Kathleen MacBride Sandham ’72 and Anne MacBride Talamonti ’77 on the death of their father, Aiden MacBride.

Sue Thompson Mahon ’49 on the death of her daughter, Maureen Mahon.

Helen Conway English ’50 on the death of her husband and Linda English ’65 on the death of her brother, James English.

Mary Miller Lishing ’50 and Joan Miller Pepke ’54 on the death of their brother, James Miller.

Mary Coyne Matava ’50 on the death of her brother, Brian Grady.

Dianne Miller Wilson ’50, Donna Miller Ranker ’62, and Michelle Miller McDonald ’68 on the death of their brother, Brian Miller, MD. Sr. Donna Emerson, CSJ ’54 on the death of her sister, Diane Emerson Sisson ’60.

Patricia Murray Kelly ’54 on the death of her sister, Rosemary Murray ’58.

Cecelia Ryan Zander ’56 and Mary Catherine Ryan Zelenka ’67 on the death of their sister, Sharon Ryan Priore ’58.

Maryann Sammon Picard ’57 on the death of her brother, Thomas Sammon, Jr. Sally Likly Aureden ’58 on the death of her sister, Marian Likly Vinopal ’57.

Mary Ann Mulloy Cannon ’59 on the death of her husband and Kathleen Cannon Burns ’80 on the death of her father, James F. Cannon, Sr. Mary Kathleen Savage Batista ’60 on the death of her mother, Mary Jo Savage.

Diane Roberto ’60, Denise Roberto Delaney ’63, and Beverly Roberto Johnstone ’65 on the death of their mother, Clare Roberto.

Joyce Futty Koledge N’61 on the death of her mother, Wilma Futty.

Judith Campanella Puchmeyer ’62 on the death of her mother, Yolanda Campanella.

Wanda Sir Sniezek ’62, Victoria Sir Cooney ’64, and Donna Sir ’73 on the death of their sister, Sr. Barbara Sir, CSJ ’53.

Penny Coyne Dixon N’62 on the death of her mother, Ruth Coyne.

Joan Kramer Harmon ’55 on the death of her husband, Richard Harmon.

Eileen Eging Kramer N’62 and Cheryl Eging Zadd N’68 on the death of their mother, Kathryn Eging.

Sr. Justina Heneghan, RSM ’55 on the death of her sister, Mary Heneghan Duffy ’46.

Mary Eleen Ross Hirzel ’63 on the death of her brother, John Ross.

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Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE

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

Katherine Siebert Albrecht N’65 and Elizabeth Siebert N’69 on the death of their sister, Barbara Siebert Walker N’64.

Cecelia Fronckowiak Watson ’66 on the death of her husband, Daniel Watson.

Mary Kelly McKnight N’66 and Neysa Kelly Logan ’74 on the death of their mother, Mariellen Kelly.

Carla Cassesa Woodring ’67 on the death of her mother, Rosa Cassesa.

Barbara Strandburg Freese ’68 on the death of her mother, Jeanette Strandburg.

Mary Donovan Heidenreich ’68, Diane Donovan Courtade ’71 and Jean Donovan Amschlinger ’75 on the death of their mother, Catherine Donovan.

Janice Nolan Moessner ’68 on the death of her mother, Mary Wurtz Nolan ’38.

Christine Dobrovic Prosek ’68 and Cynthia Dobrovic Moskal ’70 on the death of their mother, Anne Dobrovic.

Barbara Humrick N’68 and Mary Humrick N’71 on the death of their father, Richard Humrick.

Rosemary Boone Welsh ’70 on the death of her brother, Edward Boone.

Kathleen Doyle N’70, Jeanne Doyle-Goodwin N’74 and Patricia Doyle Liebhardt N’77 on the death of their mother, Catherine Doyle.

Patricia Jancura Rankin N’70 on the death of her mother, Cecilia Jancura.

Leslie Rademaker Narowitz ’71 on the death of her brother, Gerald Rademaker.

Sharon Berger Chmielewski N’71 on the death of her father and Katherine Berger Gavel ’53 and Annette Berger Kofron ’58 on the death of their brother, John Berger.

Annette Pompili Johnson N’71 on the death of her mother, Agnes Pompili.

Mary Jayne Kordel Kocur ’72 and Geralyn Kordel Milewski ’74 on the death of their father, Francis Kordel.

Sheila Hornyak Scherba ’72 and Stephanie Hornyak Ritt ’73 on the death of their father, Roger Hornyak.

Catherine Smith Montgomery N’72 on the death of her sister, Patricia Smith Webber N’73.

Laura Pistone Smith N’72 on the death of her father, Carmen Pistone.

Ne

ews Lorri Hnath DiRosa ’73 on the death of her father, George Hnath, Jr. Patricia Ross Ferry ’73 and Mary Ross Coleman ’74 on the death of their mother, Janet Speer Ross T’42.

Beth Rehor Hunt ’73 on the death of her mother, Helen Rehor.

Nancy McCaffery N’73 on the death of her mother, Marion McCaffery.

Suzanne Vallo Tripi N’73 and Deborah Vallo Sunyak N’75 on the death of their mother and Sally Harris Weiland ’57 on the death of her sister, Mary Jane Vallo.

Maureen Hanley Firment ’74 on the death of her mother, Patricia Hanley.

Noreen Zepp Linden ’74 on the death of her brother, Richard Zepp.

Pam Merk Blackburn ’76 on the death of her father, Ralph Merk.

Lynn Normand Fote ’76, Sally Normand Zaccagnini ’78 and Jeanine Normand D’Alessandro ’81 on the death of their father, George Normand.

Patricia Gaul ’76, Eileen Gaul Isdaner ’78 and Kathleen Gaul Burke ’81 on the death of their father, Joseph M. Gaul.

Amy Diaquila Munday ’76 on the death of her mother, Fern Diaquila.

Laurie Fuchs Taylor N’76 and Christy Fuchs Chambliss N’80 on the death of their brother, Dale Fuchs.

Brigid Ginley Nativio ’77 on the death of her mother and Maureen McNamara Phalen ’51, Rose McNamara Smith ’56 and Joan McNamara Debarr ’58 on the death of their sister, Eileen Ginley.

Jeanne Levasseur Regner ’77 and Danielle Levasseur ’84 on the death of their mother, Edna Wiedwald Fleming ’53.

Elizabeth Prioletti Riordan ’77 and Carolyn Prioletti ’80 on the death of their sister, Katherine Prioletti ’76.

Susan Canty Winter ’80 and Carol Canty Aquilia ’82 on the death of their mother, Shirley Canty.

Eileen Mahoney Taylor ’86 on the death of her mother, Janet Harmon Mahoney ’54.

Amy Blenkhorn Valco ’77 on the death of her father, Richard Blenkhorn.

Patricia Swancer Mencin N’80 on the death of her father, Leo Swancer.

Eileen Luna ’87 on the death of her father, Antonio Luna.

Susan Zielinski Tepfenhart N’80 on the death of her mother, Kathleen Zielinski.

Ann Beltz ’90 and Shelly Beltz Caleris ’94 on the death of their mother and Sandra Wyrock Noss ’56 on the death of her sister, Cheryl Beltz.

Elaine Jindra Klafczynski N’77, Carol Jindra Blatnik N’79 and Karen Jindra Cathcart N’80 on the death of their father, David Jindra.

Deborah Bajorek Swope N’77 and Roberta Bajorek Vespoli-McCauley N’78 on the death of their mother, Shirley Bajorek.

Peggy Wiegand N’77 on the death of her father, Edward Wiegand.

Mary Ann Blumish George ’78 on the death of her husband, Michael George.

Nancy Yarosh ’78 and Nadine Yarosh Trutza ’78 on the death of their mother, Mary English Yarosh ’40.

Nancy Milauskas Madej N’78 on the death of her mother, Cecilia Milauskas.

Leslie Taseff Zimmerman N’78 on the death of her father, Edward Taseff.

Dorie Stack Conway ’79 on the death of her brother, Robert Stack.

Carmela Peloso Vigliucci ’79 and Camilla Peloso O’Neill ’83 on the death of their mother, Elisa Peloso.

Laura Baltitas ’80 on the death of her father, John Baltitas, Sr. Kathleen Kane Gareau ’80 and Margaret Kane Hause ’84 on the death of their father, John Kane.

Mary Masterson ’80 on the death of her husband, Frederick Leonard, and on the death of her father, Martin Masterson.

Ellen Roshetko Bankaitis ’82 on the death of her father, Donald Roshetko.

Mary Petrilla Richards ’82 on the death of her father, Paul Petrilla.

Capt. Colleen Gallagher Thomas, USN ’82 on the death of her father, The Honorable Patrick F. Gallagher.

Pamela D’Amore Heidelman ’83 on the death of her husband, Brian Heidelman.

Wendy Cornell Spencer ’83 and Lisa Cornell Chambers ’86 on the death of their brother, Howard Cornell.

Lucy Giuliano Strauch ’83 on the death of her father, Giuseppe “Joe” Giuliano.

Laura Powell ’90 on the death of her mother, Shirley Powell.

Jennifer Templar ’91 on the death of her father, Lawrence Templar.

Kara McCafferty Bryden ’92 on the death of her father, Anthony McCafferty.

Lorin Scampitilla Fox ’00 on the death of her mother, Margaret Scampitilla.

Paula Rosenberg ’01 and Sarah Rosenberg ’02 on the death of their mother, Agnes Rosenberg.

Alyssa Davis ’12 and Angela Davis ’15 on the death of their father, Ronald Davis.

Please remember in your prayers the following deceased alumnae: Veronica Eifel Howson T’33 Sr. Anne Moriarty, CSJ T’36 Bernadine Vargo Matrka T’37 Mary Wurtz Nolan ‘38 Loretta Arth Cleary ‘40 Mary English Yarosh ‘40 Barbara Litzinger Lasso T’41 Mildred Kosel Gerlach ‘42 Janet Speer Ross T’42 Jane Bertelsbeck ‘43 Rose Marie Krall Seppeler ‘45 Mary Heneghan Duffy ‘46 Patricia Cox Mulcahy ‘47 Patricia McKenna Ubinger ‘48 Sr. Barbara Sir, CSJ ‘53

Edna Wiedwald Fleming ‘53 Mary Louise Schall Valva ‘53 Patricia Grega Gregory ‘54 Flora McClarnon Mahar ‘54 Janet Harmon Mahoney ‘54 Vivian Drouin Keppler ‘57 Marian Likly Vinopal ‘57 Rosemary Murray ‘58 Sharon Ryan Priore ‘58 Diane Emerson Sisson ‘60 Barbara Siebert Walker N’64 Elizabeth “Betty” Scott Kish ‘65 Patricia Smith Webber N’73 Katherine Prioletti ‘76

Saint Joseph Academy FALL 2012

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Beyonds Alumnae

1960s

1980s

Kay Kosnosky Vine ’60 is working on a project at the St. Malachi Center aimed at raising both awareness and funds. Kay manages the “Bag Project” in which bags are created from donated, 100 percent recyclable fabric. The bags are then sold in the Cleveland area as shopping or gift bags.

Kay has volunteered at St. Malachi Center, which assists individuals with physical, social and emotional needs, for 25 years.

Christine Smajdek Schulte N’80 and her daughter Samantha Schulte ’10 traveled to San Juan De La Guana, Dominion Republic, for a medical mission as part of Ohio Northern University’s Northern Without Borders Organization. Christine is a physical therapist and Samantha is a thirdyear pharmacy student at ONU. On the trip, they helped provide medical consults, medications, education and compassion to the people they encountered.

Mary Ann Ughrin Toth N’64 made her commitment as a CSJ Associate on August 15, 2012. She is presently employed at Metrohealth Center as a research assistant.

Mary Ann also is a volunteer for the InterReligious Task Force on Central America and the Jobs with Justice and Day Laborer Organizing Committee.

Anne O’Heren Jakob ’65, former SJA Social Studies teacher, recently visited Saint Joseph Academy with former SJA librarian, Donna Rosewicz. Anne, who taught at SJA from 1969 to 1976, is now retired from her position at the University of New Orleans.

Judy Opalach N’69 made her commitment as a CSJ Associate on August 15, 2012. She is very involved at St. Patrick Church on Bridge Avenue. Judy also volunteers with the InterReligious Task Force on Central America, as well as the Collaborative to End Human Trafficking.

Susan Leek Biggs ’86 is the principal at St. Dominic School in Shaker Heights, Ohio. Her school was recently named a 2012 National Blue Ribbon School by the U. S. Department of Education. Susan’s school was one of 269 schools nationwide recognized for its academic achievements.

2000s Kathleen House Strmac ’00 married Joseph Strmac on May 12, 2012. Her bridesmaids were her two sisters, Danielle House Ruiz ’95 and Mary House Chambers ’97.

Rebecca Traina ’00, graduate of The University of Notre Dame, is employed as a financial analyst at MediSync Corp. in Norwood, OH. Lisa Runyon Hanna ’01 married Robert Hanna II on June 9, 2012.

Elizabeth Hjort Bradbury ’03 married Brent Bradbury on June 16, 2012 at Old St. Pat’s Catholic Church in Chicago,

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Saint Joseph Academy UPDATE

Illinois. Stephanie Olah ’03 was her maid of honor and Rosemary Brewka ’03 was a bridesmaid. Elizabeth and Brent currently reside in Chicago.

Rachel Wilson ’03 graduated from Wright State University in 2007 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Theatrical Lighting. After graduation, she worked locally at Vincent Lighting for several years doing event lighting, and in 2010 joined the tour of Sesame Street Live as a lighting technician. Upon completion of that tour, she joined the tour of the Blue Men Group.

Rachel also worked the Rock Hall Induction Ceremony at Public Hall, and a recent Bruce Springteen concert. Currently, she is the assistant electrician with the national tour of “Anything Goes” and will tour with them for the balance of 2012 and 2013.

Angela Novak Fouse ’05 married Sean Fouse at St. Mary’s Church in Berea, Ohio on July 7, 2012. Her maid of honor was Marilyn Podgorski ’05.

Brooke Hamilton ’09 was named as a 2011-12 National Golf Coaches Association All-American Scholar. This is the second straight season that she has been recognized by the NGCA. Brooke is a member of four honor societies, the recipient of three academic scholarships, and serves as a golf team captain. She is an outstanding student-athlete.

Amanda Drapac ’10 was accepted to St. Louis University Medical School through her continued efforts as a SLU Med Scholar. Amanda is currently working on her Bachelor of Science in Investigative and Medical Sciences, with minors in Biology, Theology and Health Care Ethics.

The SJA

CubClub Wendy Poss Sonnendecker ’89 & Frank Sonnendecker twins, Camilla and Clement, born February 7, 2012 Therese Lease Anagnostos ’96 & Christo Anagnostos a daughter, Patricia Mary, born April 30, 2012 Allison Mayar Casale ’98 & Mike Casale a daughter, Mia Renee, born April 27, 2012

Molly McCann Gumucio ’99 & Alex Gumucio a son, Noah Albert, born August 1, 2012 Marie Burtch Wilkes ’99 & Stephen Wilkes a daughter, Olivia Marie, born March 25, 2012 Katie McNerney Turner ’02 & Alvin Turner a daughter, Ella, born July 18, 2012 Erin Dunford Cox ’03 & Anthony Cox a son, Patrick Anthony, born August 7, 2012

Saint Joseph Academy Has New Address!

We haven’t moved, but SJA now has a new address: 3470 Rocky River Drive Cleveland, OH 44111 Previously, the school was in the same land parcel number as the Motherhouse for the Sisters of the Congregation of St. Joseph.

Construction this past summer necessitated the splitting of the land into two separate land parcels, spurring the creation of a new number for the SJA address. The Motherhouse address remains 3430 Rocky River Drive.

Saint Joseph Academy FALL 2012

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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 Alumnae Basketball Game 2013

Bring your basketball talent to SJA on Saturday, February 16, 2013 for the annual match of odd-year graduates vs. even-year graduates. The doors open at 10:30 a.m. and the game begins at 11 a.m. There will be contests for children during half-time, and refreshments following the game. Please contact Betty Hjort in the Alumnae Office at 216.251.6788 x245 or bhjort@sja1890. org if you plan to participate or attend.

Alumnae Florida Visits 2013

President Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis ’71 and Vice President of Institutional Advancement Constance S. Sipple, CFRE, will be visiting Florida alumnae in Ft. Lauderdale on March 2, and Naples on March 3. There will be an Alumnae Mass and Reception in each city. For more information, please contact Ms. Sipple at csipple@sja1890.org.

Evening of Reflection for Women 2013 Please join us on Monday, March 25, 2013 to begin the holiest week of the liturgical year at our annual Evening of Reflection for Women. This year’s program will include dinner and a presentation by Sr. Phyllis DiFuccia, SSJ, Vice President of Mission. Invitations will be mailed in February to local alumnae.

If you would like to attend, please contact Alumnae Director Mary Ann Fischer at 216.619.1653 or maf@sja1890.org.

Spring Scholarship Luncheon 2013

Mark your calendars for the annual Spring Scholarship Luncheon! This important event for our students becomes more popular each year, so call your friends now and ask them

to join your table! The luncheon is being held on Wednesday, May 8, 2013 at the Westwood Country Club. Proceeds benefit the scholarship initiatives of Saint Joseph Academy. Watch for more information in the months ahead.

Admissions Events

December 5: Don’t miss our CYO Basketball Night! Admission is just $1 for girls wearing their CYO Basketball jerseys. Pizza & pop will be provided. T-shirt raffles, too!

December 14: Christmas at the Academy! All 5th, 6th, 7th, & 8th grade girls are invited to join us for this evening of holiday fun!

Check www.sja1890.org/admissions for more information.

Athletic Hall of Fame Nominations

The SJA Athletic Department is currently accepting nominations for the 2013 Athletic Hall of Fame Induction, being held Saturday, May 11, 2013. Nominees must exemplify the highest standards of sportsmanship, ethical conduct, moral character, and carry the endorsement of their peers. All candidates will be judged on their significant and/or long term contribution to interscholastic athletics and activities. Nomination forms can be found at www.sja1890.org/hof. In a paragraph or two please elaborate in your own words why you think this individual (or yourself ) should be considered for induction this Spring. Please return the nomination form to Athletic Director Jennie Amodio, 3470 Rocky River Drive, Cleveland, OH 44111 on or before February 14, 2013. If you are nominating someone other than yourself, be sure to include your address and phone number should someone from the committee need to reach you.