UPDATE Magazine: Summer 2024

MAGAZINE

SAINT JOSEPH ACADEMY

Timeless Traditions

Summer 2024

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.

Message from The President CONTENTS | Summer 2024 As the 2023-2024 school year concludes, we proudly reflect on our cherished traditions and the outstanding achievements of our students, faculty and staff. These reflections set the stage for fresh beginnings and continued excellence.

Our end-of-year ceremonies showcase our rich history and commitment to nurturing compassionate, accomplished young women ready to make a difference. The commencement ceremony celebrates the hard work, perseverance and successes of the Class of 2024. The beloved “Walk of the Roses” highlights the unity and support that define our school community. The Tree Ceremony signifies the enduring legacy of our students and their deep-rooted connection to the school, with the tree standing as a living testament to the contributions and memories of each class. We are thrilled to see our graduates embark on new adventures, equipped with the knowledge and values instilled in them during their time at the Academy.

We are incredibly proud of the Class of 2024 for their exceptional college acceptances and scholarships, confirming the academic preparation and supportive environment at Saint Joseph Academy. Our graduates are poised to excel in their chosen fields and make meaningful contributions to society. Additionally, our students have earned numerous honors and recognitions in academics, athletics, arts and service, showcasing their talent, dedication and the unwavering support of our faculty and staff. We celebrate their achievements and the spirit of excellence that pervades our school community.

“Service to the Dear Neighbor” is central to the charism of the Sisters of the Congregation of St. Joseph and deeply embedded in our school ethos. In fact, it will be our Character of a Graduate theme for the 2024-2025 school year. Our students participate in various service opportunities, demonstrating compassion and a commitment to social justice. They aspire to Maxim 55, “serve others unselfishly, with no thought of reward.” From community outreach programs to international service trips, our students are making a tangible difference in the lives of others.

Looking ahead to the new school year, we are excited about the progress on our strategic plan, Rooted in Love, Partnering for Growth: A Strategic Vision for Saint Joseph Academy 2024-2028, and the opportunities it brings. We are committed to strengthening our mission, enhancing our academic and community programs, expanding our partnerships and fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for all students. With the continued support of our dedicated alumnae, donors and community, we are poised for a future filled with promise.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our students, families, alumnae and donors for their unwavering support and dedication to Saint Joseph Academy. Your contributions make our mission possible and inspire us to strive for excellence in all that we do. The new school year offers many exciting possibilities. Thank you for being a part of the Saint Joseph Academy family. Together, we will continue to nurture compassionate leaders, uphold our cherished traditions and make a positive impact on the world.

Mrs. Kathryn H. Purcell

1

President’s Letter

4

Visual Arts

6

Principal’s Corner

8

Living the Mission

10

Traditions

12

Commencement

16

Athletic Hall of Fame

20

President’s Report

24

Scholarship

27

Memoriam

28

Class Notes and Cub Club

UPDATE is published by Saint Joseph Academy for alumnae, parents/guardians and friends. Contributors to this issue of UPDATE include Cheryl Arnold, Maggie Berry ’10, Erin Cunningham, Kathy Flinn, Susan Hren, Hannah Hill ’16, Sara Hughes, Laura McCarty Waryk ’07, Maryann Marek, Mickie Matheis P’22, Melissa Murphy, Carolyn Conway Novak ’06, Molly Powers ’18, Jodi Prolizo, Kathryn Purcell, Constance S. Sipple, CFRE, Tammy Sparks, Jeff Sutliff, Megan Wackerly, Nora Walsh and Dr. Jessica Wrobleski.

Photography courtesy is extended to the following: Al Fuchs Photography, the Congregation of St. Joseph, Erin Cunningham, Lifetouch/Prestige Photography, Lexi Majoros of Magnificat High School, Melissa Mandula ’04, Laura McCarty Waryk ’07, PhotoDAC/David Cleveland, Peter Nezovich, Ripcho Studios, Thomas Cooke Photography, Megan Wackerly and Rob Zdankiewicz.

For more information, please contact Marketing Communications Director Cheryl Arnold at 216.251.6788 ext. 217 or carnold@sja1890.org.

On the cover: L-R: Elizabeth Zuchold ’24, Mo Zhou ’24 and Rylee Zwissler ’24 waving to the Sisters of the Congregation of St. Joseph during the “Walk of the Roses”

Saint Joseph Academy 3470 Rocky River Drive • Cleveland, Ohio 44111 216.251.6788 • sja1890.org

2 | ON CAMPUS

Academic Excellence During the 2023-2024 School Year Two Students Earn Highest Composite Score, 36, on ACT® Exam

National Art Honor Society Induction Ceremony Five Juniors and five Seniors were inducted into the Academy’s chapter: Annalies Anderson ’25, Abigail Crane ’25 (granddaughter of Marianne Humenik Allen ’70), Rachel Garlock ’24 (daughter of Jill Satanek Garlock ’92), Grace Gibbons ’24 (sister of Kaitlyn Gibbons ’23), Allison Guzzi ’24 (sister of Makena Guzzi ’22), Emily Ostrom ’25 (daughter of Jamie McPherson Ostrom ’95), Riley “Rain” Perz ’25, Grace Scullion ’24, Kaylee Synk ’25 (sister of Abygail Synk ’22) and Janine Yaman ’24.

Kaylee Synk ’25 (sister of Abygail Synk ’22) receiving her certificate from Visual Arts Teacher Mrs. Beth Pleban

Caroline Favetti ’25

Sarah Karl ’25

National Honor Society Induction Ceremony Sixty-one Juniors and four Seniors were inducted into the Academy’s chapter

Global Scholars Program 12 Seniors presented capstone presentations

Back row L-R: Hannah Alvarez ’24, Mya Antonetti ’24, Erin Hvizdos ’24 (daughter of Keli Rook Hvizdos ’91 and sister of Abigail Hvizdos ’20 and Emma Hvizdos ’22), Frances McBride ’24 (granddaughter of Mary Mulrooney McBride ’54 and daughter of Rhonda Verchick McBride ’91), Amaya Moore ’24, McKenna Reed ’24 and Fiona Ross ’24 (daughter of Bridget Monroe Ross ’96 and sister of Maeve Ross ’22) Katherine Heighberger ’25 and Brooke Berkowitz ’25

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Front row L-R: Sophia Riveiro ’24, Sun-Hee Smith ’24, Hannah Schmidt ’24 (daughter of Andrea Isabella Schmidt ’84, sister of Sophie Schmidt ’22), Gracelyn Smith Skladany ’24 and Sadie Urso Kriska ’24

Engineering & Design Honors Program L-R: Mya Antonetti ’24, Katarina Payamgis ’24 and Grace Scullion ’24 L-R: Alyssa Hayes ’24, Bridget Collins ’24 (sister of Abigail Collins ’21) and Zoe Schmidt ’24 (daughter of Andrea Isabella Schmidt ’84 and sister of Sophie Schmidt ’22)

Purple Pathway Seniors Mya Antonetti, Celia Heisey, Katarina Payamgis, Grace Scullion and Elizabeth Zuchold

Gold Pathway Seniors Bridget Collins, Alyssa Hayes and Zoe Schmidt

Health Sciences Honors Program Purple Pathway

Gold Pathway

Seniors Vivian Ahern, Meena Braum, Cailynn Cho, Olivia Clark, Annabella De Frasia, Mary Kate Grady, Mary Kearney, Laurien Palmer, Gabrielle Psenicka, Emerson Rosbough, Sofia Salerno Veronica Talan and Mary Zajaczkowski

Seniors Brianna Almasy, Sydney Crossan, Keily Jamieson, Madilyn Jarc, Natalie Jones, Happy Kiondo, Macy Koehler, Elizabeth Krotine, Keira Leneghan, Mackenzie Maxhimer, Andrea Miron-Meinert, Emily Pavlick, Gracelyn Smith Skladany, Savannah Steele, Olivia Szoradi, Sarah Tran and Rylee Zwissler

Back row L-R: Olivia Clark ’24, Gabrielle Psenicka ’24, Keily Jamieson ’24 (sister of Kerry Jamieson ’15 and Nicole Jamieson ’16), Emily Pavlick ’24, Cailynn Cho ’24, Sarah Tran ’24, Sydney Crossan ’24, Keira Leneghan ’24 and Mary Grady ’24 Middle row L-R: Olivia Szoradi ’24 (daughter of Heather Milota Szoradi ’92 and sister of Abigail Szoradi ’23), Mackenzie Maxhimer ’24, Elizabeth Krotine ’24 (sister of Alexis Krotine ’23), Madilyn Jarc ’24, Brianna Almasy ’24, Macy Koehler ’24, Mary Kearney ’24 (granddaughter of Margaret Kilbane O’Malley ’51), Andrea Miron-Meinert ’24 and Happy Kiondo ’24 Front row L-R: Veronica Talan ’24, Annabella De Frasia ’24, Laurien Palmer ’24, Mary Zajaczkowski ’24, Sofia Salerno ’24, Meena Braum ’24, Savannah Steele ’24 (sister of Sierra Speck ’13), Rylee Zwissler ’24 and Emerson Rosbough ’24

4 | VISUAL ARTS

Visual Arts Excellence Congratulations to Visual Arts students for their outstanding performance in numerous art contests and shows during the 2023-2024 school year. A special thank you to the Visual Arts Department faculty members, Mrs. Tammy Sparks (department chair), Ms. Terise Janca ’93, Mr. Peter Nezovich and Mrs. Beth Pleban for inspiring creativity and showcasing students’ talents.

27th Annual Tri-C High School Rock Off Design Competition Poster Design Winner: Mia Strauss ’26 T-Shirt Design Winner: Riley “Rain” Perz ’25

“Just Before” by Erin Houghtling ’24 (daughter of Marie Roth Houghtling ’87), 2024 Scholastic Art & Writing Award, Gold Key

2024 Yom Hashoah V’Hagvurah Creative Arts Contest First Place: Cecelia O’Leary ’26 (sister of Sophia O’Leary ’23)

2024 Ohio Art Education Association (OAEA) Exhibition Abigail Vasek ’26, Mary Grace Romanchek ’26, Audrey Schilens ’25 (sister of Paige Schilens ’23), Emily Johnson ’27 (sister of Samantha Johnson ’23), Megan Sandy ’26 (granddaughter of Linda McGinty Hyland ’68), Martina Maline ’26 (sister of Madeline Maline ’21, and Margaret Maline ’22), Daniela Candelaria-Luna ’26 (daughter of Gabriela Luna-Galindo ’01), Paige Frei ’27, Joelle Puni ’27, Eloise Nottingham ’27 (granddaughter of Susan Labuda Liscoe ’69) and Mia Strauss ’26.

“My Passions” by Sarah Hajjar ’25, 2024 Scholastic Art & Writing Award, Silver Key

“meeeeee :3” by Eloise Mihelich ’24 (sister of Chloe Mihelich ’20 and Lilian Mihelich ’22), 2024 Northeast Ohio Regional Winner for the Governor’s Art Show

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“Strawberries” by Celia Heisey ’24, 2024 Scholastic Art & Writing Award, Art Silver Key

Foundry’s Power of Water Art Contest

2024 Youth Art Month Art Show (YAM)

Second Place: Fiona Kerrigan ’24 (granddaughter of Sandra Keegan Kerrigan ’65 and sister of Moira Kerrigan ’20)

Yeva Borys ’26 Vivenne Diaquila ’27 Selena Do ’26 Abigail Fogarty ’26 Elizabeth Jodon ’25 Jackeline McBride ’24 Christiana Nguyen ’26 Rebecca Revolinsky ’24

Honorable Mention: Lily Redmon ’25 (granddaughter of Therese Burke Gallagher ’68 and daughter of Tara Gallagher Redmon ’93)

Northeast Ohio Regional Winners for the Governor’s Art Show Abigail Campbell ’26, Photography Natalie Maraldo ’25 (sister of Elana Maraldo ’22), Commercial Art/Graphic Design Eloise Mihelich ’24 (sister of Chloe Mihelich ’20 and Lilian Mihelich ’22), Drawing Sienna Stephens ’25, Mixed Media Celia Heisey ’24, Photography Celia Heisey ’24, Commercial Art/Graphic Design Celia Heisey ’24, Commercial Art/Graphic Design Yeva Borys ’26, Commercial Art/Graphic Design

2024 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards Art Gold Key: Erin Houghtling ’24 (daughter of Marie Roth Houghtling ’87) Art Silver Key: Abigail Campbell ’26, Rachel Garlock ’24 (daughter of Jill Satanek Garlock ’92), Sarah Hajjar ’25, Celia Heisey ’24 (two works), Erin Houghtling ’24 (daughter of Marie Roth Houghtling ’87), Amelia Kotlarsic ’25, Zoe McCafferty ’26, Ceceila O’Leary ’26 (sister of Sophia O’Leary ’23), Kalina Pernod ’24, Cameron Simone ’25 and Nina Yaman ’24 Art Honorable Mention: Marnie Allen ’25 (sister of Ava Allen ’22), Abigail Fogarty ’26 (granddaughter of Lois Lemmerman Fogarty ’53), Rachel Garlock ’24 (daughter of Jill Satanek Garlock ’92), Grace Gonet ’25, Mary Kate Grady ’24, Erin Houghtling ’24 (daughter of Marie Roth Houghtling ’87), Lily Kowalski ’25 (sister of Jessica Kowalski ’22), Anna Mancuso ’24 (sister of Rachel Mancuso ’19 and Claire Mancuso ’22), Lucy McBride ’26 (granddaughter of Mary Mulrooney McBride ’54 and daughter of Rhonda Verchick McBride ’91), Ellen Mingus ’26 (granddaughter of Coletta Kahl Mulloy ’64 and sister of Erin Mingus ’21), Christiana Nguyen ’26, Ania Oshaben ’27, Rain Perz ’25 (two works), Arielle Pickett ’26, Olivia Rivera ’26, Gianna Russo ’25, Megan Sandy ’26 (granddaughter of Linda McGinty Hyland ’68), Grace Scullion ’24, Cassidy Stalla ’26 and Sienna Stephens ’25 Writing Gold Key: Charlotte “Quill” Thompson ’24 (daughter of Jennifer Patton Thompson ’93) Writing Honorable Mention: Caroline Favetti ’25 and Charlotte “Quill” Thompson ’24 (daughter of Jennifer Patton Thompson ’93)

”Guinea Fowl Cakes” by Sienna Stephans ’25, Northeast Ohio Regional Winner for the Governor’s Art Show

Writing American Voices & Visions Award: Charlotte “Quill” Thompson ’24 (daughter of Jennifer Patton Thompson ’93)

6 | CAREER PATHS

Exploring Career Paths with Junior Professional Shadowing The Academy’s Junior Professional Shadowing program offers a unique, first-hand experience for students to immerse themselves in a future career path. In March, Juniors select a professional to shadow and provide a reflection of their experience.

Some of the Junior Professional Shadowing experiences included: • Yahira De Leon ’25 shadowing Cleveland Clinic Registered Nurse Corrine French ’16 (sister of Emily French ’17) • Kate Mocho ’25 shadowing MetroHealth Physical Therapist Jamie Merkle • Sienna Stephens ’25 shadowing Cleveland Museum of Art’s Director of Institutional Funding Joanie O’Brien • Mary Tompkins ’25 (daughter of Catherine Corrigan Tompkins ’87 and sister of Cecilia Tompkins ’19) shadowing WKYC 3 Sports Editor and Producer Jeffrey Yakawiak Caroline Visnovsky ’25 shadowed Dr. Alyssa Stachowiak of Senders Pediatrics and shared the following reflection: “This experience was extremely inspiring since it allowed me to reflect on the type of

individual I want to be in my future career. Dr. Stachowiak is immensely compassionate and kind to her patients, and she truly listens (not just hears) to them and their fears, struggles, or anxieties.

Additionally, she uses her Catholic faith in medicine by praying for her patients before and after seeing them. As a result, I was inspired to do the same in the future and be a source of help and compassion for individuals that may not get the same treatment at home. Also, this experience confirmed for me that I will not go to medical school, but it did make me realize that I enjoy listening to people’s stories and any mental health issues they are facing, which sparked my interest in pursuing a possible career in psychology/therapy in the future.”

PRINCIPAL’S CORNER In an issue of UPDATE dedicated to celebrating traditions, it is appropriate to reflect on a tradition that may be less well known but is no less essential to Saint Joseph Academy. We call it “Sharing the State of the Heart.”

Our first Vice President of Mission, Phyllis DiFuccia, SSJ, teaches us that, “How we do things is as important as what we do.” So many members of the community work tirelessly to ensure our traditions live on vibrantly; as Phyllis reminds us, how we do things should manifest our core value of unifying love. The extra effort and intentionality are what make our traditions unique and defining.

Just as we celebrate traditions that weave together generations of alumnae and families of the Academy, we also treasure traditions that, while less spectacular, connect us in a deep way to our spiritual past. These more frequent traditions that we follow in our day-today work are no less important because they build and maintain the foundational relationships of our experience. One of the ways we do this is by making it an intentional practice to begin each class or meeting with prayer and a “restorative circle.” The restorative circle usually includes an invitation for each person present to share an answer to a question of interest or relevance. The practice harkens back to the days when the first sisters of St. Joseph gathered in a kitchen in Le Puy, France, and often takes the form of the spiritual

Saint Joseph Academy | Summer

practice called “Sharing the State of the Heart.” As described by Lori Helfrich in That All May Be One (Association of Colleges of Sisters of St. Joseph, Martha Malinski, Editor), “The practice emerges from the Ignatian spirituality of finding God in all things. Sharing the State of the Heart inspires people to look at ordinary life events and see the deeper spiritual meaning that reveals God through those everyday occurrences.”

The context and framing of these circles can elevate a simple conversation among classmates or colleagues into a space for real connection and relationship building, manifesting the charism of the Congregation of St. Joseph and its power to build and sustain relationships between God and all of creation. Whether it is related to the past weekend, the rhythms of the seasons, or hopes for the future, these questions invite everyone to find the presence of God in all things. Questions range from, “What is your favorite graduation tradition?” and “What is your favorite Thanksgiving side dish?” to topics like, “What am I grateful for today?” and “ What is something in my life that I am learning to let go?” Not only do these discussions frame and focus what follows as an opportunity to experience unifying love, they cultivate openness, honesty, peace and joy at the opportunity to be in communion with one another. In so doing, they keep our mission vital, and encourage each of us to ask ourselves that most essential of questions, “How is God speaking to me in this moment?”

Honoring Service to the Dear Neighbor Congratulations to the following students who received special recognition for serving others: Annabella De Frasia ’24

Anastasia Drinan ’24

Manus Christi Award for the 2023-2024 Academic Year

United Nations Association of the USA (UNA-USA), ServeOhio and InnerView in the sixth Annual Community Service Awards: Ambassador Awardee (100 hours of service during the 20232024 school year) and Ohio Awardee

Served 491 hours during her four years at the Academy

Amaya Moore ’24

Elizabeth Jodon ’25

Service Honor Award for the 2023-2024 Academic Year

United Nations Association of the USA (UNA-USA), ServeOhio and InnerView in the sixth Annual Community Service Awards: Ambassador Awardee (100 hours of service during the 20232024 school year) and Ohio Awardee

Served 452 hours during her four years at the Academy

Emilee Harden ’24

Megan Fredrick ’26

(daughter of Megan Wagner-Harden ’97 and sister of Madeline Harden ’20 and Abigail Harden ’22)

United Nations Association of the USA (UNA-USA), ServeOhio and InnerView in the sixth Annual Community Service Awards: Honor Awardee (60 hours of service during the 2023-2024 school year; Ohio Awardee and Zero Hero Awardee (service focus on Zero Hunger and Zero Waste)

Service Honor Award for the 2023-2024 Academic Year Served 450 hours during her four years at the Academy

8 | LIVING THE MISSION

Serving the Neighbor Without Distinction Jesus said, ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And a second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.

(Matthew 22:37-39)

Service to the Dear Neighbor Without Distinction, which is our Character of a Graduate theme for the 2024-2025 school year, means “recognizing relationship as the primary service” and “mak[ing one] self vulnerable in meeting the unmet needs of others.” This value is foundational to the spirituality of the Congregation of St. Joseph and it remains central to our Saint Joseph Academy mission today.

The Congregation was born of the desire to serve those in need as an expression of the deep love of God. At the time of our founding in the 1640s in France, the idea of apostolic ministry (which sends people out into the world rather than retreating to a monastery or convent to serve God) was a novel concept, and basically unheard of for women. With support from their Jesuit mentor, the first Sisters blazed a trail by caring for the sick, providing education to the poor, and meeting the unmet needs of their time and place. From the French countryside to American frontiers and cities, the Congregation established and served in schools and hospitals and worked to advocate and care for the people around them “from whom we do not separate ourselves” (CSSJ Consensus Statement).

Service to those in need also remains at the heart of our mission because it is an essential part of the message of Jesus for every time and place.

“Whatever you do for the least of these, you do for me,“ he tells his disciples, making clear throughout his teaching that the call to love and serve does not only apply to those we find “worthy” or “deserving”.

Through parables like the story of the Good Samaritan, Jesus challenges us to care for and serve our neighbors without distinction–that is, regardless of their background or worthiness in our eyes, for all are children of God. When Saint Joseph Academy Seniors are interviewed regarding their development of the Character of a Graduate, there is widespread agreement that they have grown in not only their appreciation for the value of service but also their openness to people from different walks of life through their experiences here. This is an important point, for good deeds and acts of service alone are not all this quality represents. Rather, through encountering and serving others “without distinction”, we allow them to become “dear” to us and thereby bring God’s merciful and inclusive love to the world.

Dr. Jessica Wrobleski Vice President of Mission

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Jaguars in the Community During the 2023-2024 school year, students completed over 15,215.75 hours of Direct Service. More than 45 organizations were served by students, including Laura’s Home, The Hope Center, St. Augustine, Gigi’s Playhouse, and L’Arche Community.

In addition, the Academy’s Labre Ministry program restarted with the help of several students who are passionate about serving the dear neighbor. Those students include Kate Mocho ’25, Julia Angert ’25, Hannah Schmidt ’24 (daughter of Andrea Isabella Schmidt ’84, sister of Sophie Schmidt ’22), Zoe Schmidt ’24 (daughter of Andrea Isabella Schmidt ’84, sister of Sophie Schmidt ’22), and Sarah Karl ’25.

Members of the CORE Ministry Department help foster service opportunities for students during the school year and summer.

CORE Ministry Member Mrs. Megan Wackerly has been instrumental in cultivating long-standing and new relationships with organizations.

My hope for the Saint Joseph Academy Service Program is that it will provide each student with a true understanding of ‘serving the dear neighbor’ through relationship and encounter. We can learn so much from one another if we simply take the time to engage in conversation and share our different perspectives. We offer a wide array of service opportunities with the hope that students will connect with an organization that sparks passion and interest within them. It is a privilege to serve alongside so many of our students throughout the year.

While serving, our students are poised, empathetic, and compassionate about serving the unmet needs of others. It is a beautiful experience that I certainly do not take for granted!

-Mrs. Megan Wackerly

Back Row L-R: Kate Mocho ’25, Gianna Reginelli ’25 and Mary Tompkins ’25 (daughter of Catherine Corrigan Tompkins ’87 and sister of Cecilia Tompkins ’19) Front Row L-R: Suraya Rentas ’25, Yeva Borys ’26, and Megan Fredrick ’26

Direct service is important to me because of the interactions I have had and relationships I have made with those whom I am helping. When I immerse myself in the lives of those around me, I feel more connected to them and their situations. Seeing the impact I am able to have on the people I serve is such a rewarding experience. Although I am helping them, they will never realize how much they are doing for me in return. I have grown in faith, empathy, and so much more.

- Julia Angert ’25

Nina McKind ’25 at St. Augustine Health Ministries

When serving people who are in need, I always feel grateful for the opportunity.

Service helps open my eyes to the struggles and hardships people are experiencing in my community. Without physically seeing and talking with people, I would not be aware of their difficulties and their triumphs.

- Kate Mocho ’25 Gabriela Mandry ’27, Ella McCabe ’25, Riley Day ’24 and Anastasia Drinan ’24 serving at St. Herman House

10 | TRADITIONS

Timeless Traditions In May, the Class of 2024 celebrated the Academy’s timeless traditions.

Honors Convocation Elisse Ayala ’24, recipient of the Paul Nelson Randolph Abundant Life Scholarship for the 2023-24 Academic Year

Senior Parade Macy Koehler ’24, Celia Heisey ’24, Riley Day ’24 and Mackenzie Maxhimer ’24

Farewell Mass & Alumnae Induction L-R: Campaign Director Ms. Nora Hennessy ’80, Math Teacher Mrs. Jill Satanek Garlock ’92, P’24 giving Vivian Ahern ’24 the St. Joseph Medal Katie Dugan ’09, Grace Dugan ’24 and Mrs. Jennifer Saker Dugan ’95

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Prom

Baccalaureate Mass Mya Antonetti ’24, Bridget Collins ’24 (sister of Abigail Collins ’21) and Maria Tracy ’24

Tree Ceremony L-R: Sisters of the Congregation of St. Joseph, Vivian Ahern ’24, Brynn Berkowitz ’24, Olivia Clark ’24, Rachel Garlock ’24 (daughter of Jill Satanek Garlock ’92) and Sun-Hee Smith ’24

“Walk of the Roses”

12 | COMMENCEMENT

Commencement On May 28, 166 members of the Class of 2024 graduated from Saint Joseph Academy.

The evening began with the Academy’s most beloved tradition, the “Walk of the Roses.” The graduates, in their white gowns carrying a bouquet of one dozen red roses, processed down Rocky River Drive to Our Lady of Angels Church to cheers, and a few air horns, from the crowd lining the street. The class was led by President Mrs. Kathryn H. Purcell and the Commencement Speaker, 2024 Distinguished Alumna Honoree Mrs. Kathleen A. Durkin Ferry ’77.

Mrs. Ferry began her speech by sharing with the class, “Commencement speeches traditionally outline the great opportunities that lie in front of you. At 17 that absolutely terrified me. I did not have a clue what my purpose was or how I was going to change the world. I am here to tell you to breathe…you do not have to have all the answers.

No one does.”

Continuing her speech, Mrs. Ferry provided ten pieces of advice to the graduates:

1. Life is a marathon not a sprint.

2. Life is not a true/false test with absolute answers for happiness.

3. Saint Joseph Academy encouraged you to develop problem solving

and critical thinking skills rooted in the traditions of the Sisters of the Congregation of St. Joseph.

Valedictorian Maria Tracy ’24 Attending Harvard University in the fall

Salutatorian Bridget Collins ’24 (sister of Abigail Collins ‘21) Attending Ohio Northern University in the fall

Phi Beta Kappa Mya Antonetti ’24 Attending Tufts University in the fall

Commencement Speaker Kathleen A. Durkin Ferry ’77, (daughter of Mary Lou Wasmer Durkin ’54)

4. Do not be afraid to say yes.

5. Cultivate gratitude.

6. Leave space in your life for God. 7. Prioritize your well-being.

8. Show up and work hard.

9. Quoting Taylor Swift, “Know what things to hold and what things to release.”

10. Giving back is living rich.

Class moderators Mrs. Theresa Avila-John and Mrs. Kristen Busa who have helped guide the Class of 2024 over their past four years read the names of the graduates as they received their diplomas from President Mrs. Kathryn Purcell and shook hands with Principal Mr. Jeff Sutliff.

Student speaker Sun-Hee Smith ’24 shared, “The great, the difficult, and everything in between, has transformed us into the intelligent, capable, and strong women who will cross this commencement stage today. Our personal journeys at SJA have instilled us with the pride and perseverance that we will take with us to the new great steps in life.”

Congratulations, Class of 2024! We officially welcome you as members of the alumnae community.

Members of the Class of 2024 have many legacy connections including: • 20 have mothers who are alumnae • 18 have grandmothers who are alumnae • 8 have great-grandmothers who are alumnae • 4 have both mothers and grandmothers who are alumnae • 6 are related to Sisters of the Congregation of St. Joseph (CSJ)

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• 1 has a mother and grandmother and is related to a CSJ who are all alumnae

Moving forward Members of the Class of 2024 were accepted into 173 colleges/universities.

98% plan to attend a college or university Over $10 million in merit-based scholarships* 44% graduated with high honors 18% graduated with honors 6 National Merit Commended Scholars 2 National Hispanic Recognition Scholars

Adrian College Allegheny College American University Arcadia University Arizona State University Art Academy of Cincinnati Ashland University Auburn University Baldwin Wallace University Barnard College Baylor University Berklee College of Music Berry College Boston College Bowling Green State University Bridgewater College Brunel University Bucknell University Butler University Canisius University Capital University Case Western Reserve University Chicago State University Clarkson University Clemson University Cleveland Institute of Art Cleveland State University Coastal Carolina University College of Charleston College of Wooster Colorado State University Columbia College Chicago Columbia University Columbus College of Art & Design Culinary Institute of America Cuyahoga Community College Denison University DePaul University Drake University Drexel University Duke University Duquesne University Eastern Michigan University Eckerd College Emory University Flagler College Florida Gulf Coast University Florida Institute of Technology Florida State University Fordham University

Furman University Grand Valley State University Harvard University Heidelberg University Hilbert College Hiram College Hobart William Smith Colleges Hocking College Hope College Houston Christian University Indiana University Ithaca College John Carroll University Johnson & Wales University Kent State University Lake Forest College Lakeland Community College Lawrence Technological University Lehigh University Lindenwood University Lorain County Community College Louisiana State University Loyola University Chicago Malone University Marquette University Mars Hill University Maryland Institute College of Art Marymount Manhattan College Mercyhurst University Miami University Michigan State University Montana State University Moore College of Art & Design Northeastern University Northern Michigan University Northwestern University Nova Southeastern University Oberlin College Ohio Northern University Ohio University Ohio Wesleyan University Old Dominion University Otterbein University Pace University Pennsylvania State University Point Park University Purdue University Rhodes College Roanoke College Rochester Institute of Technology

1 National African American Recognition Scholar 65 Ohio Honors Diploma recipients 30 Health Sciences Honors Program graduates 8 Engineering & Design Honors Program graduates 12 Global Scholars Program graduates *From various colleges, universities and organizations as reported by students

Rutgers University Sacred Heart University Saint Joseph’s University Saint Louis University Salve Regina University Santa Clara University Seton Hall University Slippery Rock University St. Bonaventure University St. John’s University SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry Syracuse University Texas A&M University The College of Wooster The George Washington University The Ohio State University The University of Alabama The University of Tampa The University of Tennessee Thomas Aquinas College Tufts University University of Akron University of Arizona University of California,Los Angeles University of Charleston University of Cincinnati University of Colorado University of Connecticut University of Dayton University of Denver University of Findlay University of Georgia University of Hawaii University of Illinois UrbanaChampaign University of Iowa University of Kansas

University of Kentucky University of Louisville University of Maryland University of Miami University of Michigan University of Minnesota University of Mississippi University of Montana University of Mount Union University of Nevada, Reno University of New Hampshire University of North Carolina University of Oklahoma University of Oregon University of Pittsburgh University of San Francisco University of South Carolina University of Toledo University of Vermont University of Virginia University of Washington University of Wisconsin University of Wyoming Ursuline College Vanderbilt University Villanova University Virginia Tech Walsh University Washington University in St. Louis West Virginia University Western Carolina University William Woods University Wittenberg University Wright State University Xavier University Yale University Youngstown State University

14 | SPORTS

Spring Sports

College Athletics Signing Day Crew

Five boats competed in the SRAA National Championship Regatta: Varsity 8+(19th), Varsity 4+ (2nd), Junior 8+ (5th) and Freshman 8+ (11th).

Varsity Crew won the Women’s Sweep Team Points Trophy at the 2024 Midwest Scholastic Championship Regatta for the second year in a row. The team also won the St. Mary’s Laddie Cup for the sixth consecutive year.

Congratulations to 13 student-athletes who will continue their athletic career at the collegiate level. Eight students will attend NCAA Division I schools, one will attend a Division II school and four will attend Division III schools.

Three student-athletes will attend Catholic institutions.

Congratulations to the following Jaguars: • Brianna Almasy: Baldwin Wallace University, Track and Field • Avery Anders: Bowling Green State University, Volleyball • Jacinda Bonham (daughter of Nicole Martowitz Bonham ’89): The Ohio State University, Soccer

Midwest Scholastic Girls Sweep Team Points Champions

• Jadin Bonham (daughter of Nicole Martowitz Bonham ’89): The Ohio State University, Soccer

Ava Reed ’26

• Megan Chura (granddaughter of Mary Bunosky Chura ’56): Sacred Heart University, Rugby • Hannah Foor: Houston Christian University, Beach Volleyball • Madilyn Jarc: Xavier University, Cross Country and Track and Field • Melissa Maline (sister of Madeline Maline ’21 and Margaret Maline ’22): Malone University, Track and Field • Mackenzie Maxhimer: Canisius University, Crew • Clare O’Malley: Wittenberg University, Volleyball • Hannah O’Toole: John Carroll University, Volleyball • Morgan Riley: Baldwin Wallace University, Track and Field • Julia Serdinak: Duquesne University, Crew

Saint Joseph Academy | Summer

Track & Field Ava Reed ’26 competed in the 300m hurdles at the OHSAA Division I State Track and Field meet.

2024 State Rugby Champions

Rugby The Varsity Rugby team finished back-to-back perfect seasons by being undefeated in the regular season and winning the 2024 State Rugby Championship in the State Final. This is the program’s ninth state championship.

Ella McCabe ’25

Softball Ella McCabe ’25 broke two school Softball records during the 2024 season. Ella holds the Academy’s Home Run record with nine home runs and the Runs Batted In (RBI) record with 47.

Varsity Lacrosse team in Buffalo, New York

Lacrosse The Varsity and Junior Varsity teams traveled to Buffalo, New York to compete against Buffalo Academy Of the Sacred Heart, Hamburg High School, and Nardin Academy.

16 | ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME

S A I NT J O S E P H AC A D E M Y AT H L E T IC S

Athletic Hall of Fame On June 7, Saint Joseph Academy inducted four new members into its Athletic Hall of Fame. Created in 2011, the bi-annual event recognizes the contributions of those individuals instrumental in the advancement and excellence of Saint Joseph Academy Athletics.

The Athletic Hall of Fame is pleased to welcome the Class of 2024.

HALL FAME OF

Kelly Gallagher ’09 Anne “Annie” Grove ’14 Jaime Barnes Cleary Al Wagner P’97, ’99, G’20, ’22, and ’24

Kelly Gallagher ’09 A passion for running is in Kelly’s blood— literally. Both of her parents are runners along with her brother, Brian, and sister, Mary Gallagher Coyle ’04. Kelly was only five years old when she completed her first road mile race. Her father, Dr. Michael Gallagher, established the track and cross country programs at St. Bernadette Elementary School in Westlake and coached there for 10 years before coaching at St. Ignatius High School for 17 years.

Kelly ran cross country and indoor and outdoor track all four years at Saint Joseph Academy. She accumulated many honors along the way, including earning eight Varsity letters and serving as captain of both teams her senior year. She was a member of the Varsity team that qualified for the State cross country meet all four years, and she was named to the All-District and All-State Academic teams in cross country every year.

During her sophomore year, she was named All-Region for cross country and was an individual State qualifier. She was a Regional qualifier for the 4x800 in track all four years.

She went on to have an equally successful collegiate running career, lettering in cross country, track, and indoor track all four years at Allegheny College in Pennsylvania. She was captain for track and cross country her junior and senior years.

After college, Kelly started coaching cross country and track. She has been an assistant coach at Saint Joseph Academy, St. Ignatius High School, and Gulf Coast High School in Naples, Florida. Coaching at the Academy was a singular experience for Kelly. “I loved Saint Joseph Academy | Summer

being able to share my memories and tips from different race courses and be there for the ups and downs a season brings,” she says. “Sharing my love of running as a coach for my alma mater is something I will always appreciate having had the chance to do.”

Sports have always given Kelly confidence and community. She stays in touch with former teammates and with friends that she met at running camps in high school and college. As for her former coach, Fred Kieser, she says: “Even to this day, I know I could contact him anytime and ask a training question.”

Kelly continues to participate in races. “I still enjoy competing, and my time at Saint Joseph Academy gave me the confidence to continue to pursue running seriously as an adult,” she says.

that lifelong commitment to fitness and community is something I hope to continue,” she says.

Sharing my love of running as a coach for my alma mater is something I will always appreciate having had the chance to do

Kelly earned two master’s degrees in social work and public health from Case Western Reserve University. She currently works as a NICU social worker at Mt. Sinai Hospital in New York City where she also leads the Pediatric and Perinatal Bereavement Committee which supports the entire children’s hospital.

She looks to her parents as examples.

“My parents (Doc and Cathy) still have a group of friends they run with weekly, and

She is engaged to fellow runner, Brett Wagner, an alumnus of St. John’s Jesuit High School in Toledo, Ohio. Kelly’s aunt, Capt.

Colleen Gallagher Thomas ’82 NC, USN, is a member of the Class of 2019 Athletic Hall of Fame.

Anne “Annie” Grove ’14 Annie was no stranger to the sport of rowing when she sought to start a program at Saint Joseph Academy. She watched her older brother, Clay, have a successful run as a member of the St. Ignatius High School Crew.

Her parents have participated in the Summer Rowing League in the Flats since 2010.

Younger sister Grace Grove ’18 eventually rowed for the Jaguars, too.

The Academy had been open to the idea of offering rowing as a sports team but needed students to show interest. With the support of her family, 21 other student-athletes who initially signed up, several dedicated coaches, and the St. Ignatius Crew Program—which let the newly formed girls team borrow its fleet—Annie was able to fulfill her dream.

Rowing started at Saint Joseph Academy as a club sport in the spring of 2011 and became a Varsity sport only two years later. Annie rowed all four years during the spring season and two years (as a Junior and Senior) during the fall season.

During that inaugural spring season, Annie was a member of the boat that took first place in the Women’s Lightweight Novice 4+ at the Midwest Championship.

She and her crew mates took second place in 2013 at the Midwest Championship in the Women’s Lightweight 8+. They also took second place in the Women’s Lightweight

Varsity 4+, which earned them an invitation to the 2013 Scholastic Rowing Association of America (SRAA) Nationals.

Crossing the finish line in that boat was a great way to end my high school rowing career

Annie and Kelsey O’Donnell ’14 took first place in the 2014 Women’s Lightweight 2x as Seniors, which earned them invitations to the 2014 SRAA Nationals and the 2014 U.S. Rowing Youth Nationals.

“Crossing the finish line in that boat was a great way to end my high school rowing career,” she says. Annie has many fond memories of her time in the Academy’s Crew program. “We were a rag-tag bunch, but our coaches—Rob Zdankiewicz (Head Coach), Erik Murdell (Assistant Coach), Russ Eckles, and Christine Van Cauwenberge (formerly Morgan)—were amazing,” she recalls. “They made it fun to learn something new, and without them and their dedication to a group of young athletes, we would not have had a team. They were, and still are, eager to see us grow and accomplish our dreams.”

She continues to be an active member of Cleveland’s rowing community. She serves as an assistant coach to Saint Joseph Academy and competes alongside other Jaguar alumnae in the annual Head of the Cuyahoga Regatta for the Cleveland Rowing Foundation.

Annie graduated from Michigan State University with a double major in International Relations and Spanish and went on to earn her law degree from Marquette University. She is an Associate Attorney with the Immigration Group at Nicola, Gudbranson & Cooper, LLC.

18 | ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME

Athletic Hall of Fame Jaime Barnes Cleary Jaime started playing women’s club rugby at Bowling Green State University in 1996.

Without a coach, it wasn’t long before she began to help run the practices. Fast forward 10-plus years, she was still playing the sport she loves and wanted to help grow the sport for younger girls. In 2002, she helped start the Cleveland Iron Maidens, the Cleveland Women’s Rugby Football Club in West Park.

Jaime began looking for a high school at which to coach, and Saint Joseph Academy agreed to offer rugby as a club sport on a trial basis. Twenty-seven girls signed up for the inaugural season in spring 2007.

Success came quickly for the fledgling program. Rugby was given Varsity/Junior Varsity status at the Academy in just two years.

In four years’ time, the Seniors who had ended their Freshman Rugby season in 2007 without a single win finished their high school rugby career with a State Championship in 2010.

The team went on to win seven Varsity State Championships between 2010 and 2017, making rugby the first State Championship title won by any Jaguar team. Jaime also earned the Coach of the Year Award from Rugby Ohio in 2010.

The Academy’s Rugby Program continued to rack up wins, including clinching the Girls Rugby Single School National Championship in 2016—Saint Joseph Academy’s first-ever National title.

The championship series comprised three come-from-behind victories, including one against Divine Savior, the Jaguars’ Midwest archnemesis from Wisconsin that they had never beaten before.

In the fall of 2018, Jaime stepped down after 11 years as the Saint Joseph Academy Rugby Head Coach. Her children were playing their own sports, and Jaime wanted to focus on her family. She went on to coach her son’s soccer team and her daughter’s junior high rugby team, the West Park Shamrocks. She and Tom, her husband of 17 years and a former longtime rugby coach at St. Edward High

We didn’t just start a team at Saint Joseph Academy, we created a community

School, still coach the Celtic Elite Team in the summer, which is part of the Cleveland Rovers Rugby Football Club.

She is proud of helping to have paved the way for girls to learn and love the sport of rugby. “We didn’t just start a team at Saint Joseph Academy,” she shares. “We created a community.” She is especially grateful to her coaching staff. “They always picked me up and made it fun. I wouldn’t be where I am or who I am today without the wonderful women who stood by me for over a decade.”

Jaime works for Oatey Manufacturing in Cleveland as an Environmental Health, Safety, and Security Manager. She enjoys hiking, cycling, yoga, and hanging out with her family.

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Al Wagner Al Wagner has faithfully supported athletics at Saint Joseph Academy for nearly 30 years, beginning with attending the games of his middle daughter, Megan Wagner Harden ’97, a basketball, volleyball, and softball player who transferred to the Academy from St. Peter of Chanel High School her sophomore year in 1994. His youngest daughter, Colleen Wagner Moennich ’99, played volleyball, basketball, softball, and ran track her senior year.

Al had served as the Junior Varsity Basketball coach at St. Peter of Chanel for four years before stepping down in 1995. In the fall of that year, Don Kostell, Saint Joseph Academy’s Athletic Director (and a member of the Academy’s inaugural Athletic Hall of Fame in 2011) approached him about coaching the Freshman Basketball team.

Over the course of his tenure with the Jaguar Athletic Program, Al devoted 15 years to coaching basketball, including being part of the coaching staff in 2022 when the team advanced to the OHSAA Division 1 Regional Final (Elite Eight). He was also recruited to help the Saint Joseph Academy Golf team by longtime coach Maureen Fallon Adler ’79, P’06, ’08 and ’10 (Athletic Hall of Fame, Class of 2013) and spent six years with that program.

According to Al’s nomination, “Countless students have been positively impacted by his unwavering, uplifting approach. On staff, he is the consummate team player, doing anything required for the sake of the team, no matter how big or small.”

He has a passion for teaching, guiding, and trying to help young people be successful.

Being involved in sports gave him purpose, providing him with opportunities to make a difference in the lives of others in the same way his parents and coaches did for him.

Understanding the value of teamwork is what Al considers to be the most important aspect of sports. “You won’t always remember the scores of the games that you played in or who won the games that you played in, but you will always remember your teammates,” he says.

While there were wonderful wins and difficult losses, what I will always remember are the young women that I had the privilege of coaching, being around, and knowing

Al’s best memories will always be the players. “While there were wonderful wins and difficult losses, what I will always remember are the young women that I had the privilege of coaching, being around, and knowing,” he says.

He also credits the coaches who worked alongside him for helping create a culture and a community that was second to none. These coaches included Maureen Fallon Adler ’79, Larry Chernauskas (Athletic Hall of Fame, Class of 2015), and Karen Swanson-Haan.

“I am grateful for the gift of Saint Joseph Academy and the blessing of having coached there,” he shares. Al spent 35 years at Kaufman Container, a Clevelandbased company serving the packaging industry. He has been retired for 10 years.

He and Beverly, his wife of 51 years, have three daughters: Alison Wagner, Megan Wagner Harden ’97, and Colleen Wagner Moennich ’99. The couple also has seven grandchildren, including Saint Joseph Academy alumnae Madeline Harden ’20, Abigail Harden ’22, and Emilee Harden ’24.

20 | PRESIDENT’S REPORT

2023-2024 President’s Report To view the full President’s Report, visit sja1890.org/giving.

On behalf of the entire Saint Joseph Academy community, I want to thank you for your support during the 2023-2024 fiscal year. Your financial support has made a lasting impact on the 673 young women of the Academy.

This year, 77% of our students received tuition assistance and the financial gap for educating each student was $1,562. Thanks to the generosity of our alumnae, parents/ guardians, grandparents, benefactors and friends, Saint Joseph Academy was able to provide more than $2.9 million to our students in financial assistance and merit awards.

The community is truly humbled by your support, and I thank you.

Sincerely,

Kathryn H. Purcell President

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FISCAL YEAR IN REVIEW | July 1, 2023 - June 30, 2024

Total dollars raised

$3.4 MILLION 4,687 $464,206 2,589 Annual Fund

Total # of Donors

Total Gifts Processed

333

166 705 37

Parent/guardian donors

Average gift size

Grandparent donors Donors from

$736

Alumnae Class Giving

1,227

states

New donors

raising a total of

$833,440

Top 10 Class by Participation

Top 10 Class by Total Dollars Raised

1945 - 40% 2013 - 34% 1948 - 24% 1958 - 23% 1954 - 22% 1969 - 21% 1971 - 20.8% 1962 - 20.7% 1963 - 20.3% 1973 - 20%

1954 - $120,790 1979 - $83,309 1966 - $61,352 1978 - $47,615 1971 - $44,242 1981 - $41,121 1977 - $30,305 1980 - $26,173 2003 - $23,158 1983 - $21,703

22 | PRESIDENT’S REPORT

Thank you for your generous support

$1.2 MILLION Scholarship Funded Financial Aid

361

Students Receiving Endowed Scholarships

$364,976 Raised for New or Existing Endowed Scholarships

129

Total Endowed Scholarships or Scholarships In Progress

4 New Scholarships Fully Established or In Progress • Shirley Frindt Chambers ’49 Endowed Memorial Scholarship • Kathleen Bednar Felice ’66 Endowed Scholarship • Robert and Joan Smetana Endowed Memorial Scholarship • Kathleen Durkin Ferry ’77 Scholarship Saint Joseph Academy Scholarship Granting Organization (SJA SGO)

212 $149,883 Donors raised

Jaguar Jackpot Students raised more than

673 $200,000 Saint Joseph Academy | Summer

“Walk of the Roses”

176 $13,160

Donors raised

“Celebrate the Academy”

40 478 $260,000 Sponsors and

Attendees raised over

Giving Tuesday

310 21 $120,000 Donors in

States raised more than

Cleveland Rivals Unite Alumnae Challenge

575 27 $40,000 Donors in

States raised more than

net

Family Challenge

294 $26,000

Parents/Guardians and Family Members raised over

Class Participation 2024 - 31.9% 2026 - 43.2% 2025 - 53.6% 2027 - 55.9%

24 | SCHOLARSHIP

It’s Time to Save on Your 2024 State Taxes In 2022, the Ohio General Assembly established a program whereby Ohioans can receive a 100% donation credit against their Ohio income tax liability for cash contributions to certified Scholarship Granting Organizations (SGOs) who grant scholarships for tuition to students.

Saint Joseph Academy has created its own SGO - the Saint Joseph Academy Scholarship Granting Organization (SJA SGO), designed for individuals to make donations for Saint Joseph Academy scholarships to students with the highest financial need while also receiving eligibility for an Ohio donation credit dollar for dollar. This credit is limited to the lesser of $750 for an individual (or $1,500 if married filing jointly) or the related state of Ohio tax liability.

By contributing to the SJA SGO, you: • Have a voice in the distribution of the tax dollars you already pay • Directly impact our students with the highest financial need in receiving an outstanding Catholic education Please note, gifts must be made payable to SJA SGO in order to receive the donation credit.

To learn more, contact Constance Sipple, CFRE, Vice President of Institutional Advancement at 216.671.0166 or csipple@sja1890.org or visit sja1890.org/giving/SJASGO This does not constitute income tax advice. Always consult with your tax professional for information on the impact of any charitable contribution.

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SAINT JOSEPH ACADEMY

Scholarship Granting Organization

Making a Lasting Impact Saint Joseph Academy is proud to celebrate the 10th Anniversary of its partnership with the Parker Hannifin Foundation. In June 2014, the Academy and Parker Hannifin Foundation’s partnership began with a $1,500 scholarship to a student interested in pursuing a career in engineering, engineering technology or computer science. In addition to receiving the scholarship, recipients are invited to be considered for a paid internship after their freshman year of college/ university with Parker Hannifin.

Congratulations to this year’s recipients of The Parker Hannifin Corporation Scholarship: • Kalina Pernod ’24, pursuing Mechanical Engineering at Lawrence Technological University in the fall • Veronica Talan ’24, pursuing Biomedical Engineering at Case Western Reserve University in the fall Thank you to the Parker Hannifin Foundation for supporting the futures of these young women in engineering. The Academy looks forward to continuing this partnership for years to come.

Kalina Pernod ’24, Stephanie Boledovic of Parker Hannifin and Veronica Talan ’24 at the 2023-2024 Honors Convocation

Prior Recipients of the The Parker Hannifin Corporation Scholarship: Coral Riegler ’23, Jillian Wilde ’22, Meagan Figler ’21, Reagan Bushok ’20, Tatiana Lipert ’20, Lily Mayle ’18, Annie Wolodzko ’17 (granddaughter of Susan Ptak Dy ’65, daughter of Danette Belko Wolodzko ’87 and sister of Audrey Wolodzko ’22), Emily Schuetz ’16 and Rachel Barendt ’15 (sister of Natalie Barendt ’18 and Sarah Barendt ’20)

26 | ADVANCEMENT

Thank you to our Spring Scholarship Sponsors On Thursday, May 16, Saint Joseph Academy and Nazareth Academy alumnae and friends gathered at the Cleveland Yacht Club for the Annual Spring Scholarship Luncheon.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who attended or supported the event. Your generous contributions and presence made this event a resounding success, raising $15,000 (net) for scholarships directly benefiting the Academy’s students.

Special thanks to this year’s sponsors: LEAD SPONSOR: Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis ’71 GENEROUS SPONSORS: Diane E. Strojin ’83 Dr. Janice Blau ’69

Calling for “25 Under 35” Nominations

Sharon Hampu GP ’17 & ’22 Daria L. Roebuck ’75 Mary Lou Vrnak Stricklin ’61 Cherie Van Uum Friedman ’80 & Friedman Search Group Julia Mayer P’21 Margaret Monroe Schreiber ’71

Contact Us 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 of Institutional Advancement 216.671.0166 csipple@sja1890.org Melissa Murphy Development Director 216.251.6788 ext. 232 mmurphy@sja1890.org Hannah Hill ’16 Alumnae Director 216.619.1653 hhill@sja1890.org

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Saint Joseph Academy’s “25 Under 35” awards program celebrates the Academy’s alumnae who are under 35 years of age and are making a difference in their communities.

Established in honor of Saint Joseph Academy’s 125th birthday, this event celebrates our alumnae for living out the mission of the Academy and embodying the character of a Saint Joseph Academy graduate in their personal and professional endeavors.

Candidates are either nominated by their peers or selfnominated. An independent committee of Cleveland’s female leaders will rank and select nominees based on their SAINT JOSEPH AC ADEMY achievements, as well as social, philanthropic and community involvement.

TWENTY

Nominations must be submitted by Friday, December 13, 2024. Visit sja1890.org/ alumnae/25-under-35-awards to submit a nomination. Nominees must be under 35 years of age as of June 21, 2025.

25 35 U N D E R

THIRTY

SAINT JOSEPH AC ADEMY

Memoriam Please remember in your prayers the following deceased alumnae: Florence Montean Gooding ’46

Nancy Geiger Koran ’67

Patricia Fleming O’Neill T’48

Linda Sikora Baxendale ’68

Loretta Lavelle Seidl ’50

Kathleen Moehring Franey N’68

Jeanne Barrish Bobela ’53

Maureen Williams Gillum N’68

Ann Hopkins Purcell ’54

Lynn Jarus Forgach N’70

Sheila Chambers Caco ’56

Therese “Traci” Rath ’76

Mary Lou Haluscsak Fisher ’56 Arliss Hudson Boren ’57 Barbara Jean Belock Cassidy ’57 Diane Rudolph Maatz ’58 Isabelle “Karen” Daly Hill ’60 Jeanette O’Donnell O’Connor ’60 Mary Teresa Spitzig Shacklett ’63

This list reflects alumnae losses that Saint Joseph Academy has been made aware of as of July 9, 2024.

Eternal rest grant unto them O, Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them.

May they rest in peace.

28 | CLASS NOTES From L-R: Ellie Berchak ’15, Noeleen Doherty ’17, Eileen Seeholzer ’87, Kate Webb Downing ’92, Greta Noeth ’17, Tegan Webb ‘25, Kathleen Seeholzer Webb ’64, Renee Senft ’18, Susan Seeholzer Gliebe ’67, Nell Simons ’18, Anne-Marie Crawmer Webb ’17, Mary Grace Millar ’17, Cathy Dugan Webb ’84, Kaitlyn Nieto ’17, Mackenzie Schoenherr Shoemaker ’15, Ellie Schauer ’20, Maya Cundiff ’17, Morgan Schauer ’17, and Julieann Fioritto ’17

Alumnae Class Notes

Megan Lowes Bolin ’09, an instructor at John Carroll University, published a book entitled Ignite the Secret to Engaging Young Adults in the Church in Fall 2023. The book focuses on how to help parents, parish leaders and clergy learn how they can better engage young adults in the life of the parish community.

2010s

1990s

Anne Brewka ’07 married Scott Larsen at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden in Brooklyn, New York on April 27, 2024. Her sisters Rosemary Brewka ’03 and Clare Brewka ’05 were in attendance.

Anne-Marie Crawmer Webb ’17 married Geoff Webb at St. James Church in Lakewood on June 3, 2023. There were over 20 SJA women, past and present in attendance. The centerpieces at the wedding represented special buildings to Anne-Marie and Geoff, including the Academy building (see the centerpiece in Anne-Marie’s hands in the photo).

Abigail Hvizdos ’20 wrote and published a novel entitled Should I Stay or Should I Go? The story began as a short story assignment in a Saint Joseph Academy creative writing class taught by Becky Goede McNulty ’96. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Abigail revisited her initial short story and saw the potential to expand it into a full-length novel.

Listening to the Eagles, “Hotel California” shaped the storyline and explored the depths of her characters further.

2020s

1980s

Stephanie Arnould Mercer ’88 was named the Senior Technical Advisor of Operations (J3) at United States Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM) at Offutt AFB Nebraska. USSTRATCOM J3 plans, integrates and synchronizes operations with and across USSTRATCOM entities and other combatant commands in order to provide global options to national leaders for strategic deterrence to our nation.

Laura Starkey ’94 was appointed to the Board of Trustees of the Ohio Association of Advanced Practice Nurses (OAAPN) in January, acting as Northeast Region Co-Director.

Laura graduated from Ursuline College in 2023 with a Doctorate of Nursing Practice Degree.

2000s

1970s

Kathleen “Kathy” Sweeny Oliphant ’77, DNP, RN, CNL, NEA-BC, received the Elizabeth Kemble Nursing Alumni Award from the University of Cincinnati (UC) College of Nursing. This award is one of the highest honors given by the UC College of Nursing and recognizes alumni for their achievements in leadership, research and practice. Dr. Kathy serves as an Assistant Professor and Director of Systems Leadership Program at the UC College of Nursing, which she graduated from in 2012.

Cub Club Mary Gallagher Coyle ’04 and Daniel Coyle a daughter, Finnley Jane, born September 28, 2023.

Bridget Urban Sulzer ’09 and Aaron Sulzer a daughter, Scotland Autumn, born May 1, 2024.

Chelsea Fagan Rolinc ’10 and Andrew Rolinc a daughter, Mya Marie, born April 12, 2024.

Rachael Perez-Stable Rupeka ’04 and Curtis Rupeka a daughter, Sloane Joy, born April 17, 2024.

Colleen Meder Mandoza ’10 and Caleb Mandoza a daughter, Vivian Rose, born August 30, 2023.

Maegan Osborne Webb ’11 and Les Webb a son, Luka Michael, born January 9, 2024.

Tina Daley Lavelle ’07 and Sean Lavelle a son, Martin Robert, born June 4, 2024.

Saint Joseph Academy | Summer

Cari Cutler Dober ’16 and Matthew Dober a daughter, Emma Rose, born December 23, 2023.

Our Local Jubilarians Thank you, Sisters, for the generous witness of your life!

We honor the Sisters of St. Joseph, who are celebrating the anniversaries of their entrance into religious life this year. Together they have served for 470 years!

Sr. Dorothy Turk, CSJ

Sr. Corita Ambro, CSJ ’54

75 years

75 years

Sr. Mary Hough, CSJ ’53 (sister of Kathleen Hough Stolar ’60)

70 years

Sr. June Hansen, CSJ ’59 (sister of Rosemary Hansen Raeske N’60, Rita Hansen Steinbeck N’62, Clare Hansen Leslie N’69 and sister-in-law of Janice Turner Hansen N’65)

65 years

For additional information on the Sisters, please visit https:// csjoseph.org/jubilarians/ Sr. Judi Keehnen, CSJ*

Sr. Priscilla Saxton, CSJ ’59

Sr. Mary Ann Sullivan, CSJ*

65 years

65 years

60 years *Entered the founding Congregation of Medallie, currently residing at St. Joseph Center, Cleveland, Ohio

Retirements We thank the following retirees for their service to Saint Joseph Academy and wish them a happy retirement.

Mrs. Mary Laco ’74, P’06, CSJ Associate

Mrs. Maureen Becker, P’12 and ’14

Mr. James Barona

Student Support Services

Science Teacher

28 Years

14 Years

7 Years

Controller

MAGAZINE

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

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

Upcoming Events Nazareth Academy All Class Years Grand Reunion Nazareth Academy graduates of all class years are invited to attend their reunion at the Cleveland Yachting Club in Rocky River on Sunday, September 8 from 1-4 pm.

2024 Golf Outing All are welcome to grab a foursome and join us at Sweetbriar Golf Course in Avon Lake on Monday, September 23.

8th Grade Shadowing

Jaguar Jackpot Raffle

2024 Grand Reunion

Between Wednesday, September 4 - Sunday, October 6, visit sja1890.org/jaguarjackpot to purchase tickets.

Alumnae who graduated in a year ending with ‘4’ or ‘9’ are invited back to campus for an in-person Grand Reunion celebration on Saturday, October 12. The Class of 1974 will have a special dinner and recognition in honor of their 50th Reunion year.

Fall Open House Open House is a wonderful opportunity to learn about our academic offerings, meet our amazing teachers, current students and coaches, as well as tour our beautiful campus including the renovated Fitzmaurice Hall and the 4,800 sq. ft. Howley Makerspace innovation lab. Open House is Sunday, October 6 from 1-4 p.m. Registration required.

On Sunday, October 13, all alumnae and their families are welcome to join us for an All-Alumnae Mass starting at 10 a.m. There will be food trucks and family activities. All alumnae are welcome and encouraged to join us on campus for this fun day.

Select dates in September-December sja1890.org/admission Prefer to receive UPDATE magazine via email? Please send an email to alumnae@sja1890.org to request a digital copy versus a mailed copy of the magazine.

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