“Walk
of the Roses”
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.
Summer is a special time that connects the end of one school year with the beginning of the next. It offers a moment to reflect on all that has just come to completion while also looking ahead with hope and excitement of what is to come. This edition of UPDATE helps us make that transition, celebrating the accomplishments and milestones of the past year and preparing for the opportunities and growth the year ahead holds.
Our end-of-year traditions, the Tree Ceremony, Commencement and the beloved “Walk of the Roses,” celebrated the spirit of the Class of 2025 and beautifully captured the strength of our community. These events marked the culmination of years of hard work, community building and spiritual growth, empowering our graduates to lead with heart and conviction.
We are incredibly proud of the Class of 2025 for their outstanding accomplishments, including exceptional college acceptances and scholarship offers that reflect both their co-curricular experiences and the academic excellence of their Saint Joseph Academy education. Our students continued to excel across all areas of school life. We were especially thrilled to celebrate our Rugby team, which advanced to the state finals in June and finished as Division I state runner-up, a remarkable achievement that demonstrated their determination and teamwork. Additionally, a record-high 17 students from the Class of 2025 committed to continuing their athletic careers at the collegiate level, a testament to their talent and dedication.
We honored two beloved members of our community who retired after decades of devoted service: Mrs. Valerie Sanfilippo P’13 and Ms. Maryann Marek. Their impact on generations of students and colleagues is immeasurable. Maryann Marek, who faithfully served Saint Joseph Academy for an extraordinary 46 years, was named a 2025 Honorary Alumna in recognition of her unwavering commitment to the Academy’s mission and legacy.
In June, the call to serve extended beyond the school year as students participated in immersive service trips to Kermit, West Virginia and the Dominican Republic. These experiences offered powerful opportunities to build relationships, provide hands-on support to communities in need and embody our mission to “serve the dear neighbor without distinction.” Also, we proudly celebrated our “25 Under 35” honorees. This exceptional group of young women is living out the mission and values of our school each and every day in the community.
We are thrilled with the continued progress of our strategic plan, Rooted in Love, Partnering for Growth: A Strategic Vision for Saint Joseph Academy 2024–2028. In the year ahead, we look forward to advancing initiatives in academic innovation, student wellness, spiritual growth, community engagement and mission integration, each reinforcing our vision for the future of Saint Joseph Academy.
As we prepare for the year ahead, we are especially excited to announce that Mrs. Megan Wackerly has transitioned from the CORE Ministry Department to Assistant Principal for Academics and Mrs. Erin King from the English Department to Instructional Coach for our faculty.
Thank you for walking with us in mission and hope. This season of transition reminds us that each ending holds the promise of a new beginning. With your partnership, we enter this next chapter ready to grow, to serve and to lead with purpose.
UPDATE is published by Saint Joseph Academy for alumnae, parents/guardians and friends. Contributors to this issue of UPDATE include Cheryl Arnold, Alison Barberic ’01, Erin Cunningham, Kathy Flinn, Kathleen Jones Hensley ’15, Hannah Hill ’16, Anne Ising, Melissa Murphy, Carolyn Conway Novak ’06, Bryce Ormiston, Brian Patton, Molly Powers ’18, Kathryn Purcell, Constance S. Sipple, CFRE, Jeff Sutliff and Dr. Jessica Wrobleski.
Photography courtesy is extended to the following: Al Fuchs Photography, Cheryl Arnold, Congregation of St. Joseph, Erin Cunningham, Kathleen Jones Hensely ’15, Lifetouch/ Prestige Photography, Melissa Mandula ’04, Laura McCarty Waryk ’07, Becky Goede McNulty ’96 and Ripcho Studios.
For more information, please contact Marketing Communications Director Cheryl Arnold at 216.251.6788 ext. 217 or carnold@sja1890.org. Interested in receiving UPDATE email versus mail? Send an email to alumnae@sja1890.org
Mrs. Kathryn H. Purcell
Saint Joseph Academy 3470 Rocky River Drive • Cleveland, Ohio 44111 216.251.6788 • sja1890.org
Nine Seniors presented capstone presentations. As part of the program, students were exposed to the Engineering & Design disciplines in an integrated, engaging way to help identify career paths to pursue in college. Several of these students plan to study engineering and/ or design at their college or university.
L-R: Maeve Baker, Gabriella Croce, Julia Angert, Grace Gonet, Isabelle Iditoiu, Sarah Karl and Kaylee Synk (sister of Abygail Synk ’22)
Not pictured: Nica Burrell (granddaughter of Christine Ziehm Burrell ’68) and Lily Kowalski (sister of Jessica Kowalski ’22)
Twenty-three Seniors presented capstone presentations. The Health Sciences Honors Program (HSHP) prepares students for a life of compassionate leadership and service in a healthcare profession. The program’s unique experiences such as dissection, suturing and field trips to local medical facilities allow students to truly see first-hand if they want to pursue a career in healthcare. Of this year’s Seniors, many plan to pursue a health-related major at their college or university.
Back row L-R: Jessica Nader, Sarah Hajjar, Caroline Favetti, Chloe Ringfield, Grace Harris and Aliza Muttillo
Middle row L-R: Lacey Aldrich (sister of Kailey Aldrich ’23), Bridget Mullen, Elina Glaros (sister of Alexia Glaros ’23), Kate Mocho, Sonia Juran (daughter of Anita Kinscher Juran ’90), Rafi Catacutan and Katherine Heighberger
Front row L-R: Evelyn Hagan, Vedaa Chauhan, Allison Pruss, Priyamvada Jagtap, Cameron Simone, Brooke Berkowitz (sister of Brynn Berkowitz ’24) and Chloe Britton (granddaughter of Bernadette Daly McCrone ’64)
Not pictured: Alesha Brown, Grace Keane and Bridget Masterson
United Nations Association of the USA (UNA-USA) and InnerView in the 8th Annual National Community Service Awards
Honor Awardees with 60 hours of service this school year: Elizabeth Jodon ’25 and Megan Fredrick ’26
Merit Awardees with 30 hours of service this year school year: Sophia Haddad ’26
The Manus Christi, or Hands of Christ, Award is presented to a student who has demonstrated an outstanding devotion to service in the church, community and Saint Joseph Academy. She genuinely seeks to embody the charism of the Congregation of St. Joseph in her life and the life of our school.
Six Seniors presented capstone presentations. As part of the program, students developed cross-cultural knowledge and communication skills as well as critical thinking skills about global change.
Congratulations to the cast and crew of this year’s spring play, The Girls of the Garden Club. Each year, our Performing Arts students shine on and off the stage to delight audiences. As a special thank you to Performing Arts Teacher and Theater Director Mrs. Anne Ising, Tech Director/Scenic Designer Angela Detrick ’98, Tech Director/Sound Designer Kate Valentino O’Dell ’08 and Lighting Design Erin SummersJones ’10 (daughter of Lorraine Dailey Jones N’80 and sister of Gwenevaer Jones ’15) for guiding these students as they develop their theatrical talents.
Rhoda - Tegan Webb ’25 (granddaughter of Kathleen Seeholzer Webb ’64 and Kathleen Mercer Walsh ’66)
Marigold - Liliana Willrich ’27
Vincent - Gab Geldart ’25
Cora - Alesha Brown ’25
Dillson - Nina Harris ’25
Evie - Jaidyn Bisheimer ’25
Dora - Poppy Wadenpfuhl ’27
Birdie - Gemma Walton ’25
Dede - Danielle Ballard ’25
Clara - Bridget Masterson ’25
Lillybelle - Riley Perz ’25
Marissa Hale ’27
Jessica Nader ’25
Ania Oshaben ’27
Gabriela Vanegas ’26
Garden Club Members
Zelda - Audrey Tytko ’25 (sister of Olivia Tytko ’24)
Angelica - Erin Kelley ’28 (sister of Mary Maragret Kelley ’14, Nora Kelley ’17, Grace Kelley ’19 and Maeve Kelley ’21)
Celeste - Elizabeth Gareau ’25
Ginger - Annie Gilbride ’27
Agnes - Agnes Butler ’28
Madge - Grace Bailey ’27
Margaret - Nora Upchurch ’28
Francine - Nica Burrell ’25 (granddaughter of Christine Ziehm Burrell ’68)
Trudi - Ellie Nottingham ’27 (granddaughter of Susan Labuda Liscoe ’69)
Dorothy - Roslyn Jannette ’28
Lorraine - Riley Ashcraft ’28 (granddaughter of Patricia Kilbane Geniusz ’67)
Student Directors
Merrin Kennedy ’26 and Audrey Tytko ’25 (sister of Olivia Tytko ’24)
Stage Manager
Rachel Oldfield ’26
Asst. Stage Managers
Gianna Russo ’25 and Emily Ostrom ’25 (daughter of Jamie McPherson Ostrom ’95)
Amariah Brown ’26
Paige Frei ’27
Kyra Gazso ’27
Bridget Hughes ’27
Grace Ljubi ’26 (daughter of Michele Haas Ljubi ’80 and sister of Colleen Chambers ’12 and Molly Chambers ’17)
Laynie Masterson ’28 (granddaughter of Sandy Schmale Masterson ’65)
Lucy McBride ’26 (granddaughter of Mary Mulrooney McBride ’54, daughter of Rhonda Verchick McBride ’91, and sister of Frannie McBride ’24)
Zoe McCafferty ’26 (sister of Julia McCafferty ’24)
Clare Monahan ’27
Theresa Natt ’26 (sister of Margaret Natt ’22)
Ella Okin ’25 (daughter of Amanda Bostwick Okin ’97)
Rachel Oldfield ’26
Emily Ostrom ’25 (daughter of Jamie McPherson Ostrom ’95)
Sophia Payamgis ’26 (sister of Katarina Payamgis ’24)
Claire Polito ’27
Amari Reese ’26
Analise Rodriguez-Gabriel ’27
Gianna Russo ’25
Angela Sharykina ’25
Amalia Ward ’28
Lily Weppelman ’27
Maxim 52 of the Congregation of St. Joseph calls us to “interpret all things from the best possible point of view.” This simple yet profound invitation to holiness challenges us to live out the Gospel in all moments, both significant and routine. It calls for more than mere optimism or a “glass-half-full” outlook; it demands generosity of spirit, particularly in consideration of the actions or beliefs of others.
Living by this maxim can be difficult, especially when another’s words or behaviors fall short of goodness, even shockingly so. It requires the unifying love that St. Paul so beautifully describes in his First Letter to the Corinthians:
“Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not easily angered or resentful. It does not rejoice in wrongdoing but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things” (1 Corinthians 13:4–7).
A Saint Joseph Academy graduate embodies this love through her commitment to Empathetic Justice, defined as “a devotion to doing justice with compassion and respect for others” and a desire to bring about systemic change in pursuit of global equality.
At Saint Joseph Academy, the call to empathetic justice is woven throughout our curricular and co-curricular programs. Literature classes offer students windows into other perspectives, as teachers select texts with intentionality to cultivate empathy and understanding. Seminars and discussion boards promote dialogue and teach active listening skills. Participation in tight-knit class communities, teams, casts, ensembles and clubs fosters meaningful relationships that lead to deeper awareness of the diverse experiences of others. Service opportunities, integrated across all areas of school life, emphasize direct engagement and relationshipbuilding. These encounters help students grow in their understanding of the challenges others face, as well as the gifts they themselves may take for granted.
Our mission is as important today as it has been since the Congregation’s founding in the 17th century. At Saint Joseph Academy, we will continue to view and teach empathy as a way to walk with Jesus, who, in the ultimate expression of empathy, came down from heaven and endured the human experience for our sake. In the spirit of Maxim 52 , we embrace the complexities of our time as a renewed call to follow Christ’s teachings with courage, compassion, and deepened conviction.
Mr. Jeff Sutliff
Students in Mr. Brian Patton’s Music in Culture classes this semester took on the challenge of making functional music instruments from scratch. This involved designing the shapes of the instruments, selecting and cutting the wood, testing the sound and decorating them.
Using the tools and supplies in the Howley Makerspace innovation lab, students crafted colorful masterpieces of drums, ukuleles and harps of many different shapes and sizes, as well as a few kalimbas, xylophones and various other percussion instruments.
“We have the amazing Howley Makerspace innovation lab so I wanted to collaborate with the Engineering Department, Mr. Bryce Ormiston and Mr. Robert Zdankiewicz, on this project,” Mr. Patton shared. “Not only are students learning more about music, but they gain exposure to tools in the space they may have never used before, which will hopefully spark future interest in design and creation.”
This creativity is just one of many examples of collaboration with the Engineering Department in the Howley Makerspace innovation lab. Since 2020, this space has fostered exploration and creativity for the young women of the Academy. The Howley Makerspace innovation lab has given students an opportunity to dive deeper into hands-on learning while working collaboratively and independently on various projects.
I have always been a big music lover which is why I chose to partake in Mr. Patton’s class. I created a flying “v” guitar using wood, strings, and tuners. My favorite part of the project was figuring out how to actually build the guitar and put it together. I love building things so much that I will be going into trade for construction! I learned that patience is key and things sometimes don’t go the way you want it to and that’s totally okay! It’s fun to challenge yourself with a project like this.
In Engineering Teacher Mr. Bryce Ormiston’s Introduction to Engineering classes, an end of the year learning experience was hands-on. Several students took on the challenge of bringing to life the Academy’s InspireSJA capital campaign’s new addition by constructing a model.
“As part of the learning process, students took information from architectural drawings and then developed CAD drawings for laser cutting,” Mr. Ormiston shared. “They were able to learn to take 2D drawings and create 3D models.”
Sophia Hwodeky ’27 (sister of Stephanie Hwodeky ’23), Kyra Gazso ’27, Ella Babcock ’27, Stella Garland ’27, Avery Stives ’27 and Lucy Thomas ’26 created the large scale model of the new addition (pictured). The model shows the intricate details of the inside of the addition, from the new rooms to the windows of the expanded Arcade.
“Throughout this project, I gained a deeper understanding of how to scale down buildings in order to make a model,” Sophia Hwodeky ’27 shared. “I also gained more knowledge on all the machines in the Makerspace.”
The second model, created by Jesslyn Kostecke ’27 (daughter of Olivia Schilens Kostecke ’99), Annabelle Seybold ’27, Scarlet Davis ’28, Addison Spohn ’28 and Julia Angert ’25, attaches to the 3D model of the Academy building that Jillian Wilde ’22 created as part of the Engineering & Design Honors Program.
“I wanted to work on the model because I like doing hands-on projects, and I was able to build something useful for the SJA community,” said Annabelle Seybold ’27. “I was also interested in using the laser cutters and learning the process that architects use daily. My favorite part of this project was seeing it all come together in the end. There were many obstacles along the way, plus a lot of prep work before anything could become tangible. When pieces were finally getting printed and glued together, I was happy to see how much we had accomplished!”
“The students did an amazing job on these models,” Mr. Ormiston shared. “I was incredibly proud of their dedication to not giving up when they met challenges, like scaling the windows and roof.”
Crew took two boats, Junior 8+ and Varsity 4+, to the SRAA National Championship Regatta in Camden, NJ. The Junior 8+ placed 6th and the Varsity 4+ boat earned the bronze medal, coming in 3rd. Crew also won the St. Mary’s Laddie Cup Regatta for the 6th consecutive year and placed runner-up at the Midwest Scholastic Championship Regatta.
The Rugby team competed in the State Rugby Championship for the third year in a row! This year, the team finished as state runner-up. Madelyn Hubbell ’25 and Ruby Kormos ’25 (daughter of Wendy Walland ’88 and sister of Sophie Kormos ’19) earned All-Ohio recognition.
Leah Corrigan ’28 (granddaughter of Barbara Thompson Heffernan ’55), Bridie Hyland ’26 (sister of Mary Hyland ’19), Joelle Puni ’28, Ava Reed ’26 and Bridget Mullen ’25 competed in the OHSAA Regional Track meet. Bridget Mullen ’25 finished 7th on the podium in the 1600m run. Ava Reed ’26 finished 8th on the podium in the 300m hurdles.
Varsity Lacrosse advanced to the Regional Quarter Final, competing against Hudson High School. Three athletes received All-Region recognition from the Ohio High School Girls Lacrosse Coaches Association: Celeste Kostecke ’28 (daughter of Olivia Schilens Kostecke ’99), Amelia Litten ’26, and Amy Willard ’26. In addition, Ireland Kovacevic ’25 received an All-Region Academic Award.
The Academy is excited to celebrate 17 Seniors who will continue their athletic careers at the collegiate level. This year marks the highest number of Seniors graduating from the Academy.
Congratulations to the following Jaguars:
The Varsity Softball team competed in the OHSAA Division I District tournament. Four athletes received All-District Awards from the Ohio High School Fastpitch Softball Coaches Association: Emily Johnson ’27 (sister of Sammie Johnson ’23)-Second Team, Sylvia Mittendorf ’27-Second Team, Gabriella Croce ’25-Honorable Mention, and Amelia Reyes ’28-Honorable Mention. The team also traveled to South Carolina over spring break to play at the Ripkin Experience in Myrtle Beach.
• Lacey Aldrich (sister of Kailey Aldrich ’23): University of Tennessee-Knoxville, Crew
• Melanie Alvarenga: Lake Erie College, Basketball
• Julia Angert: University of Northern Colorado, Volleyball
• Brooke Berkowitz (sister of Brynn Berkowitz ’24): John Carroll University, Soccer
• Grace Gonet: West Virginia University, Crew
• Annabelle Groomes: University of San Diego, Volleyball
• Mia Hanley (sister of Ella Hanley ’23): University of Kentucky, Stunt
• Katherine Heighberger: Marietta College, Soccer
• Madelyn Hubbell: Harvard University, Rugby
• Grace Keane: Baldwin Wallace University, Volleyball
• Ella McCabe: The College of Wooster, Softball
• Kate Mocho: Ithaca College, Basketball
• Morgan Peace: Johnson C. Smith University, Softball
• Gianna Reginelli: Ave Maria University, Golf
• Chloe Smith: East Tennessee State University, Volleyball
• Kaylee Synk (sister of Abygail Synk ’22): Eastern Michigan University, Soccer
• Addison Yarin (daughter of Kristine Soltis Yarian ’94 and sister of Marley Yarian ’14): Walsh University, Rugby
On May 27, 162 members of the Class of 2025 graduated from Saint Joseph Academy.
The class began the evening 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 the steps of the Academy building to Rocky River Drive and through the doors of Our Lady of Angels Church. Rocky River Drive was lined with family, friends and peers cheering on the graduates. The class was led by President Mrs. Kathryn Purcell and the Commencement Speaker, 2025
Distinguished Alumna Honoree Maureen Fallon Adler ’79, P’06, ’08 & ’10 (sister of Laura Fallon Fibbi ’77 and Anne Fallon Carney ’81, mother of Erin Adler ’06, Mary Grace Adler ’08 and Eileen Adler ’10).
Maureen reflected on the memories made at the Academy over the past four years. She shared the following, “Remember it is the hard knocks that open your eyes, but here at Saint Joseph Academy, it is the soft touches that will open your heart.”
As part of the ceremony, it is tradition for the graduating class to sing two songs a cappella, “Joseph, Father” and “The Lord Bless You and Keep You” to each other.
Congratulations, Class of 2025! We officially welcome you as members of the alumnae community.
13 have mothers who are alumnae
20 have grandmothers who are alumnae
3 have great-grandmothers who are alumnae
5 have both mothers and grandmothers who are alumnae
5 are related to Sisters of the Congregation of St. Joseph (CSJ)
1 has a mother, grandmother and great-grandmother who are alumnae
Members of the Class of 2025 were accepted into 172 colleges/universities.
Allegheny College
American University
Appalachian State University
Ashland University
Auburn University
Ave Maria University
Baldwin Wallace University
Belmont University
Bowling Green State University
Brown Aveda Institute
Butler University
California College of ASU
Capital University
Carthage College
Case Western Reserve University
Central Michigan University
Central State University
Charleston Southern University
Clark Atlanta University
Clarkson University
Clemson University
Cleveland Institute of Art
Cleveland State University
Coastal Carolina University
College of Charleston
College of the Holy Cross
Colorado State University
Columbia College Chicago
Columbus College of Art and Design
Concordia University
Coppin State University
Culinary Institute of America
Cuyahoga Community College
Denison University
DePaul University
Drexel University
Duquesne University
Eastern Michigan University
Eckerd College
Elizabeth City State University
Elon University
Emerson College
Ferris State University
Flagler College
Florida Atlantic University
Florida Gulf Coast University
Fordham University
Furman University
Gannon University
Georgia Institute of Technology
Georgia State University
Grambling State University
Harvard University
Heidelberg University
High Point University
Hofstra University
Illinois Institute of Technology
Indiana University Indianapolis
Ithaca College
John Carroll University
Johnson & Wales University
Johnson C. Smith University
Kent State University
Kenyon College
Lake Erie College
Lane College
Lawrence Technological University
Liberty University
Lipscomb University
Lorain County Community College
Lourdes University
Loyola University Chicago
Malone University
Marietta College
Marquette University
Massachusetts College of Art and Design
Mercyhurst University
Metropolitan State University of Denver
Miami University
Michigan State University
Miles College
Montana State University
Morehead State University
Morris Brown College
Nazareth University
New York University
Northeastern University
Northern Michigan University
Oberlin College
Ohio Dominican University
Ohio Northern University
Ohio University
Ohio Wesleyan University
Otterbein University
Pace University
Palm Beach Atlantic University
Paul Mitchell The School
PennWest Edinboro
98% plan to attend a college or university
Over $20,976,950 million in merit-based scholarships*
43% graduated with high honors
19% graduated with honors
2 National Merit Finalists
1 National African American Recognition Scholar
1 National Hispanic Recognition Scholar
38 Ohio Honors Diploma recipients
23 Health Sciences Honors Program graduates
9 Engineering & Design Honors Program graduates
6 Global Scholars Program graduates
Point Park University
Pratt Institute
Purdue University
Regis University
Rochester Institute of Technology
Saint Joseph’s University
Saint Louis University
Saint Mary’s College
Saint Mary’s College of California
Saint Vincent College
Savannah College of Art and Design
School of the Art Institute of Chicago
School of Visual Arts
Selma University
Seton Hall University
Shaw University
Shenandoah University
Slippery Rock University
Southeastern University
Southern Methodist University
SUNY Buffalo State
Susquehanna University
Talladega College
The College of Wooster
The New School
The Ohio State University
The Pennsylvania State University
The University of Alabama
The University of Findlay
The University of Tampa
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Tiffin University
University at Buffalo
University of Akron
University of Cincinnati
University of Dayton
University of Detroit Mercy
University of Hawaii at Mañoa
University of Illinois Chicago
University of Illinois UrbanaChampaign
University of Iowa
University of Kentucky
University of Louisville
University of Maine
University of Maryland
University of Minnesota
University of Mississippi
University of Mount Union
University of New Hampshire
University of Northern Colorado
University of Oklahoma
University of Pittsburgh
University of Rochester
University of San Diego
University of San Francisco
University of South Carolina
University of St Andrews
University of Toledo
University of Tulsa
University of Utah
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Ursuline College
Villanova University
Virginia Tech
Walsh University
West Virginia University
Western Michigan University
Western New England University
Wingate University
Winthrop University
Wittenberg University
Wright State University
Xavier University
Youngstown State University
The announcement of the election of Pope Leo XIV–born Robert Francis Prevost–came as a surprise to observers for several reasons, the most significant being his origins in the United States. As he shared a message of peace in his first address, however, it felt clear that the Holy Spirit had indeed been at work in selecting a man who was right for this particular time in history, who had prioritized service and unity throughout his life of leadership. At a moment when wars raged around the world and major powers seemed to be giving up on diplomacy, he reminded us:
God loves us, God loves you all, and evil will not prevail! We are all in God’s hands. Therefore, without fear, united hand in hand with God and among ourselves, let us move forward. We are disciples of Christ. Christ precedes us. The world needs his light. Humanity needs him as the bridge to be reached by God and his love. Help us too, and then each other to build bridges, with dialogue, with encounter, uniting us all to be one people always in peace.
Much has been written elsewhere about Pope Leo’s background in the U.S. and Peru, and his identity as a member of the Augustinian order. Although I am unaware of any formal connections to the Congregation of St. Joseph, it seems clear that Pope Leo’s priorities are in close alignment with our mission “that all may be one.” In fact, his papal motto, In Illo uno unum (”in the One, we are one”), is a clear expression of the conviction that all of humanity–and in fact all of creation–are united in Christ. He has supported ecumenical efforts to build Christian unity, and in his homily for Pentecost he cited Benedict XVI’s statement that “the Spirit opens borders” in our hearts and relationships, bridging divisions based on class and race. In an early address to journalists, he called for the media to reject partisanship and divisive language, and instead use their platforms to encourage dialogue and understanding.
Like Pope Francis, Leo embraces the idea of a synodal, listening church, not necessarily having all the answers, but walking together in faith, guided by the Spirit. His namesake, Pope Leo XIII (1878-1903), was an advocate for the working class in Europe during a time of economic upheaval, and many observers anticipate that Leo XIV will need to confront today’s social and economic shifts brought by emerging technologies (like artificial intelligence and social media) and a changing climate and global demographics. It is hard to say what the future will hold for our community, our Church, or our world at a time when so many things feel uncertain, but in the meantime let us pray for our new Pope, remembering that in the One, we are all one
SAINT JOSEPH ACADEMY
TWENTY THIRTY 25 35 UNDER
SAINT JOSEPH ACADEMY
Hallie Barczak O’Brien ’12
Colleen Chambers ’12
Kendra Cundiff ’16
Anne-Marie Crawmer Webb ’17
Corrine French ’16
Hannah Hill ’16
Claire Konys Mangan ’12
Jordan Kortowich ’15
Melanie Kortyka ’09
Carolyn Kraus ’14
Katherine Laubert Sabol ’10
Maureen Loftus ’14
Gráinne Mangan Smyth ’10
Samantha Montañez ’16
Kristin Nauman ’18
Callie Powers ’12
Sarah Presley ’17
Rebecca Sedlak-Cotter ’14
Claudia Stephens ’18
Cassandra Stinson ’13
Virginia Sullivan ’13
Madie Szaller Schickler ’09
Jessica Walsh-Frazier ’11
Julie Wheeler McCay ’10
Dianne Williams Suntala ’14
To read more about these incredible young alumnae, visit sja1890.org/ alumnae/alumnae-awards
To view the full advancement donor book, visit www.sja1890.org/giving
To make a gift to the Academy, scan the QR code.
On behalf of the entire Saint Joseph Academy community, I want to thank you for your support during the 2024-25 fiscal year. Your generous financial support has made a lasting impact on the 653 young women of the Academy.
This year, 77% of our students received tuition assistance and the financial gap for educating each student was $2,204. Thanks to the generosity of our alumnae, parents/ guardians, grandparents, benefactors and friends, Saint Joseph Academy was able to provide $3.4 million to our students in financial assistance and merit awards.
The community is truly humbled by your support and I am grateful for YOU!
Sincerely,
Kathryn H. Purcell President
Total dollars raised $3.4 MILLION
Total # of Donors
2,214
265 Parent/guardian donors
Average gift size
4,564
Total Gifts Processed
126 Grandparent donors
428 New donors
40states
$762 Donors from
Alumnae Class Giving
Thank you for your generous support
$508,851
2 New Endowed Scholarships
• Kathleen Durkin Ferry ’77 Endowed Scholarship
• Dr. Michael and Catherine Gallagher Endowed Scholarship
2 New Scholarships In Progress
• Carol Volk Simmerly ’45 Scholarship
• Beth Tirpak ’82 Memorial Scholarship
Students raised more than Annual Fund
130 Total Endowed Scholarships or Scholarships In Progress
326 Students Receiving Endowed Scholarships
Saint Joseph Academy Scholarship
Granting Organization (SJA SGO)
222 Donors raised $187,304
Jaguar Jackpot
653 $225,000
$1,002,556 Scholarship Funded Financial Aid
$146,795 Raised for New or Existing Endowed Scholarships
Giving Tuesday
310 Donors across the country raised more than $105,000 for Saint Joseph Academy, reaching our dollar-for-dollar match and exceeding our donor goal!
“Walk of the Roses”
194
147 Donors raising $11,767
Rose bouquets were sponsored by sponsors and donors raised over
“Celebrate the Academy”
37 $430,000 gross $90,396 in in-kind donations
Family Challenge
Cleveland Rivals Unite Alumnae Challenge
513 alumnae from 30 States raised more than $47,000 Congratulations to the Class of 1991 for being the class with the highest participation.
225 Parents/Guardians and Family Members raised over $24,000 Class Participation
Please remember in your prayers the following deceased alumnae:
Anne Marie Scharf Smith T’42
Cecilia Nagel, CSJ ’48
Patricia Shannon Campbell ’50
Eileen O’Donnell Howard ’52
Mary Ann Varosky Jacobsen ’54
Carmeline Laco Monhart ’54
Loretta Ullmann Kiehl ’56
Nancy Vitt Nemes ’56
Edwina Gough Anderson ’57
June Hansen, CSJ ’58
Mary Dean O’Leary ’58
Margaret Tettelbach Golick ’59
Yaroleen Mojzis McGreal ’60
Mary Ann Prusak Winchester ’60
Loretta Hunady Borges ’61
Kathleen Forrey Gallagher N’61
Mary Eileen Fitzgerald Paprocki ’63
Rosemary Nosetic ’65
Jo Ann Veverka Edwards N’66
Kathleen Polito Wirtz ’66
Barbara Stanko Suroski ’67
Donna Ceslewski Novy ’72
Martha Krisko Starkey ’75
Dorothy Stack Conway ’79
Eternal rest grant unto them O, Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace.
Catherine “Cathy” Lanning Knittel ’67 (sister of Mary Ellen Lanning Rogers ’ 77, Martha Lanning ’81 and Rosemary Lanning Schafer ’84, and mother of Mary Therese Knittel Cory ’97) was named the 2025 Ward 17 Senior of the Year of the City of Cleveland. This honor is a fitting tribute to a woman who has spent her life quietly and consistently shaping hearts, minds, and communities through faith, compassion and tireless service.
Elizabeth “Beth” Gaertner ’08 was named to the Clague Playhouse Board of Directors where she will serve a two-year term as secretary. Beth also works as a Recreation Programs Specialist for the Muscular Dystrophy Association.
Angela Ruggeri Eakin ’09 married Judson Eakin at Our Lady of Angels Church in Cleveland on May 2, 2025.
Rita Flanagan ’17 (sister of Hannah Flanagan ’10) recently earned a J.D. from the Pace Haub Environmental Law Program and her Master’s in Environmental Management from the Yale School of the Environment.
Mary Hyland ’17 graduated from The Ohio State University College of Medicine. Mary will begin her residency at University Hospitals Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital.
Grace Davis ’21 graduated as the Class of 2025 Valedictorian of Santa Clara University. Grace graduated as a double major in political science and philosophy with a minor in gender and sexual studies.
Catherine Hilow ’21 (daughter of Judy Ghazoul Hilow ’81 and sister of Elizabeth Hilow ’06 and Eleanore Hilow Andreani ’08) was awarded the Lehigh’s Sportsmanship Award at the 2025 Commencement Ceremony at Lehigh University where she competed on the Division I Women’s Rowing Team. This award recognizes the top graduating studentathlete across all sports who demonstrates ethical conduct, fair play, and good sporting behavior in his or her daily participation in
intercollegiate athletics and has demonstrated good citizenship outside of the competitive sports setting. Catherine finished out her collegiate athletic career as a 3 time rowing team captain; three-time Patriot League Honor Roll recipient; seven-time Faculty Athletics Council Award winner; four-time Dean’s List selection and a Lehigh Women’s Rowing Coaches Award recipient.
Erin Mingus ’21 (granddaughter of Coletta Kahl Mulloy ’64) was named one of five University of Dayton student employees of the year for 2025. Erin also earned the honor of Regional Student Employee of the Year by the Midwest Association of Student Employment Administrators.
Jadin Bonham ’24 (daughter of Nicole Martowitz Bonham ’89 and sister of Jacinda Bonham ’24) was invited to participate in the inaugural U.S. Women’s College Talent ID Camp in Atlanta, GA as one of only 42 players selected to attend. This training camp is part of the U.S Youth National Teams efforts to increase programming and opportunities for high-potential college players. Jadin plays on the Women’s Soccer Team at The Ohio State University where she is studying in the Fisher College of Business.
you for Making the Spring Scholarship Luncheon a Success!
This year’s Spring Scholarship Luncheon raised over $20,500 (gross) for our Scholarship Fund. This fund helps to provide more than 77% of our students with tuition assistance so they may receive an exceptional Catholic education.
Special thanks to this year’s sponsors:
LEAD SPONSOR: EnnisCourt
GRAND SPONSOR:
Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis ’71
SUPPORTING SPONSORS:
Julia Mayer P’21
Diane Strojin ’83
GENEROUS SPONSORS:
Barbara Witt Cicerchi ’69
Friedman Search Group, LLC
Sharon Hampu GP’17 & ’22
Maureen Smith Powers ’83, P’12, ’14 & ’18 Regency Construction Services, Inc
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
Saint Joseph Academy | Summer
Elizabeth Weithman-Boyer ’06 and Mark Boyer a daughter, Madeline, born November 2024.
Brooke Danforth Miles ’09 and Stephen Miles a daughter, Cecelia Jane, born November 14, 2024.
Kristyn Wasil Armstrong ’10 and Thomas Armstrong a daughter, Lucy Jean, born January 5, 2025.
Nicole Morales ’16 and Charlie Draucker a son, CJ, born January 6, 2025.
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 220 years!
Thank you, Sisters, for the generous witness of your life!
Sister Madeline Lammermeier, CSJ ’44 80 years
Sister Ann Kilbane, CSJ ’54 (sister of Margaret Kilbane Stearns ’56 and Patricia Kilbane Geniusz ’67) 70 years
For additional information on the Sisters, visit csjoseph.org/news/jubilarians/
Sister Audrey Koch, CSJ ’54 (sister of Mary Louise Koch Turner ’51, Roseanne Koch Sopuch ’61, Mary Jean Koch Range ’64, Margaret Koch Bednar N’66 and Florence Koch Murray N’68) 70 years
We thank the following retirees for their service to Saint Joseph Academy and wish them a happy retirement.
Mrs. Valerie Sanfilippo P’13 Science Teacher
24 Years
Ms. Maryann Marek
School Counselor and Department Chair
46 Years
Special Note: Ms. Maryann Marek was honored with the distinction of Honorary Alumna of the Academy. The Honorary Alumna recognition is reserved for those who have dedicated 40 or more years to Saint Joseph Academy and who embody a lifelong commitment to the school’s mission, values, and charism. Ms. Marek has served 46 years at the Academy.
Saint Joseph Academy 3470 Rocky River Drive Cleveland, Ohio 44111
sja1890.org
Dated Material
Nazareth Academy graduates of all class years are invited to attend their reunion at the Cleveland Yachting Club in Rocky River on Sunday, September 7 from 1-4 pm.
All are welcome to grab a foursome and join us at Sweetbriar Golf Course in Avon Lake on Monday, September 22.
Select dates in September-December sja1890.org/admission
Between Wednesday, September 3-Sunday, October 5, visit sja1890.org/jaguarjackpot to purchase tickets.
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 5 from 1-4 p.m. Registration required at sja1890.org/admission
Sunday, October 12 | 12:30-2:30 p.m. | Saint Joseph Academy Campus. Registration required at sja1890.org/admission
Saturday, October 11 | 5–9 p.m. | Saint Joseph Academy Campus
Join us for an evening of dinner, drinks, and dancing as we celebrate the spirit of Saint Joseph Academy! Reconnect with classmates, enjoy campus tours and toast to the past, present and future of SJA.
We will honor alumnae from milestone classes ending in ‘0’ and ‘5’, but all alumnae are encouraged to attend.
Sunday, October 12 | Mass at 10 a.m.| Saint Joseph Academy Campus
Activities from 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
Come Home to SJA! Grab your kids, your classmates, spouse, mother or best friend from another class because Sunday is for everyone! Join us for a day of fun that celebrates all things SJA!
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.