UPDATE Magazine: Summer 2025

MAGAZINE

SAINT JOSEPH ACADEMY

“Walk of the Roses”

Summer 2025

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 2025 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.

1

President’s Letter

2

On Campus

4

Performing Arts

5

Principal’s Corner

8

Athletics

10

Commencement

12

Living the Mission

14

President’s Report

18

Memoriam

19

Class Notes

20

Scholarship 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, 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.

On the cover: The Class of 2025’s “Walk of the Roses.”

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

Mrs. Kathryn H. Purcell

2 | ON CAMPUS

Celebrating Academic and Service Excellence During the 2024-2025 School Year Engineering & Design Honors Program 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)

Health Sciences Honors Program

Back row L-R: Jessica Nader, Sarah Hajjar, Caroline Favetti, Chloe Ringfield, Grace Harris and Aliza Muttillo

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.

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

Saint Joseph Academy | Summer

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

Global Scholars Program 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.

Back row L-R: Sarah Weaver (sister of Margaret “Maggie” Weaver ’17 and Abby Weaver ’19), Emma Kelly and Mary Tompkins (daughter of Kate Corrigan Tompkins ’87 and sister of Cecilia Tompkins ’19) Front row L-R: Jaidyn Bisheimer, Julia Angert and Jenna Nejman

The Manus Christi Award United Nations Association of the USA (UNA-USA) and InnerView in the 8th Annual National Community Service Awards

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.

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

Elizabeth Jodon ’25

Megan Fredrick ’26

Nora Maloney ’25 236 service hours during her four years at the Academy

Sophia Haddad ’26

4 | PERFORMING ARTS

The Girls of the Garden Club Delights Audiences 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.

CAST Rhoda - Tegan Webb ’25 (granddaughter of Kathleen Seeholzer Webb ’64 and Kathleen Mercer Walsh ’66)

Garden Club Members

Marigold - Liliana Willrich ’27

Angelica - Erin Kelley ’28 (sister of Mary Maragret Kelley ’14, Nora Kelley ’17, Grace Kelley ’19 and Maeve Kelley ’21)

Lorraine - Riley Ashcraft ’28 (granddaughter of Patricia Kilbane Geniusz ’67)

Celeste - Elizabeth Gareau ’25 Ginger - Annie Gilbride ’27

Merrin Kennedy ’26 and Audrey Tytko ’25 (sister of Olivia Tytko ’24)

Agnes - Agnes Butler ’28

Stage Manager

Madge - Grace Bailey ’27

Rachel Oldfield ’26

Margaret - Nora Upchurch ’28

Asst. Stage Managers

Francine - Nica Burrell ’25 (granddaughter of Christine Ziehm Burrell ’68)

Gianna Russo ’25 and Emily Ostrom ’25 (daughter of Jamie McPherson Ostrom ’95)

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

COSTUME CREW Marissa Hale ’27 Jessica Nader ’25 Ania Oshaben ’27 Gabriela Vanegas ’26

Saint Joseph Academy | Summer

Zelda - Audrey Tytko ’25 (sister of Olivia Tytko ’24)

Trudi - Ellie Nottingham ’27 (granddaughter of Susan Labuda Liscoe ’69) Dorothy - Roslyn Jannette ’28

Student Directors

PRINCIPAL’S CORNER 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.

STAGE CREW 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

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

6 | ENGINEERING

Inspiring Creativity In the Howley Makerspace innovation lab

Samantha Todd ’27 (daughter of Erina Alvares Todd ’97), Grace Bailey ’27, Eloise Nottingham ’27 (granddaughter of Susan Labuda Liscoe ’69)

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.

- Lindsay Carson ’25 (sister of Nicole Carson Hunt ’15, Emily Carson ’18 and Allison Carson ’22)

Saint Joseph Academy | Summer

L-R: Stella Garland ’27, Ella Babcock ’27, Sophia Hwodeky ’27 (sister of Stephanie Hwodeky ’23), Kyra Gazso ’27 and Avery Stives ’27 with their model of the new addition.

Engineering Students Bring New Addition Concept to Scale 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.”

New addition model next to the model of the Academy building created by Jillian Wilde ’22.

8 | ATHLETICS

Spring Athletics

Crew 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.

Rugby 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.

Saint Joseph Academy | Summer

Outdoor Track & Field 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.

17 Seniors Will Continue Their Athletic Careers at the Collegiate-Level

Lacrosse 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.

Softball

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.

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: • 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

10 | COMMENCEMENT

Commencement 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).

Valedictorian Sarah Karl ’25, attending Georgia Institute of Technology in the fall

Salutatorian and Phi Beta Kappa Sarah Hajjar ’25, attending The Ohio State University in the fall

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.

Members of the Class of 2025 have many legacy connections including: 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 Commencement Speaker Maureen Fallon Adler ’79, P’06, ’08 & ’10

Saint Joseph Academy | Summer

Moving forward Members of the Class of 2025 were accepted into 172 colleges/universities.

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

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

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 *From various colleges, universities and organizations as reported by students

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

12 | LIVING THE MISSION

We Are One: Celebrating the Election of Pope Leo XIV 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.

Dr. Jessica Wrobleski Vice President of Mission

Saint Joseph Academy | Summer

SAINT JOSEPH AC ADEMY

TWENTY

25 35 U N D E R

THIRTY

SAINT JOSEPH AC ADEMY

Hannah Hill ’16, Corrine French ’16 (sister of Emily French ’17), Kendra Cundiff ’16 (sister of Maya Cundiff ’17) and Samantha Montañez ’16

Congratulations to the “25 Under 35” Honorees Class of 2025 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.

14 | PRESIDENT’S REPORT

2024-2025 Advancement Impact Report To view the full advancement donor book, visit www.sja1890.org/giving

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!

To make a gift to the Academy, scan the QR code.

Sincerely,

Kathryn H. Purcell President

Saint Joseph Academy | Summer

FISCAL YEAR IN REVIEW | July 1, 2024 - June 30, 2025

Total dollars raised

$3.4 MILLION 4,564 2,214 Total # of Donors

Total Gifts Processed

265

126 428 40

Parent/guardian donors

Average gift size

Grandparent donors Donors from

$762

Alumnae Class Giving

1,268

raising a total of

Top 10 Class by Participation 1974 - 24.7% 2004 - 23.2% 1991 - 22.7% Nazareth 1960 - 22.5% 1999 - 21.0% 1971 - 19.7% 2012 - 18.5% 1980 - 17.4% 2013 - 17.3% 1953 - 17.0%

states

New donors

$968,059

Top 10 Class by Total Dollars Raised 1971 - $169,514 1975 - $108,039 1979 - $68,441 1954 - $60,506 1977 - $53,152 1966 - $48,381 1980 - $41,436 1957 - $30,489 1981 - $28,311 2003 - $27,364

16 | PRESIDENT’S REPORT

Thank you for your generous support

130 $508,851 326 Annual Fund

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

$1,002,556

Total Endowed Scholarships or Scholarships In Progress Students Receiving Endowed Scholarships

Saint Joseph Academy Scholarship Granting Organization (SJA SGO)

222 $187,304 Donors raised

Jaguar Jackpot Students raised more than

653 $225,000 Giving Tuesday

310 $146,795 $105,000

Scholarship Funded Financial Aid

Donors across

the country raised more than

Raised for New or Existing Endowed Scholarships

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for Saint Joseph Academy, reaching our dollar-for-dollar match and exceeding our donor goal!

“Walk of the Roses” Rose bouquets were sponsored by

194 147 $11,767

Donors raising “Celebrate the Academy” sponsors and donors raised over

37 $430,000 $90,396

gross

in in-kind donations

Family Challenge

Cleveland Rivals Unite Alumnae Challenge

513 30 $47,000

alumnae from

States raised more than

Congratulations to the Class of 1991 for being the class with the highest participation.

225 $24,000

Parents/Guardians and Family Members raised over

Class Participation 2025 - 23.5% 2027 - 44.1% 2026 - 33.1% 2028 - 39.0%

18 | MEMORIAM

Memoriam Please remember in your prayers the following deceased alumnae: Anne Marie Scharf Smith T’42

Rosemary Nosetic ’65

Cecilia Nagel, CSJ ’48

Jo Ann Veverka Edwards N’66

Patricia Shannon Campbell ’50

Kathleen Polito Wirtz ’66

Eileen O’Donnell Howard ’52

Barbara Stanko Suroski ’67

Mary Ann Varosky Jacobsen ’54

Donna Ceslewski Novy ’72

Carmeline Laco Monhart ’54

Martha Krisko Starkey ’75

Loretta Ullmann Kiehl ’56

Dorothy Stack Conway ’79

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

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This list reflects alumnae losses that Saint Joseph Academy has been made aware of as of July 1, 2025.

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

May they rest in peace.

1960s

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.

2000s

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.

2010s

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.

2020s

Alumnae Class Notes

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.

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.

20 | ADVANCEMENT

Thank 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

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 Saint Joseph Academy | Summer

Cub Club 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.

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 220 years!

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

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 For additional information on the Sisters, visit csjoseph.org/news/jubilarians/

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

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.

Mrs. Valerie Sanfilippo P’13 Science Teacher

Ms. Maryann Marek School Counselor and Department Chair

24 Years

46 Years

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 7 from 1-4 pm.

Jaguar Jackpot Raffle

2025 Grand Reunion

Between Wednesday, September 3-Sunday, October 5, visit sja1890.org/jaguarjackpot to purchase tickets.

Saturday, October 11 | 5–9 p.m. | Saint Joseph Academy Campus

Fall Open House

8th Grade Shadowing

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.

Select dates in September-December sja1890.org/admission

Trunk-or-Treat

2025 Golf Outing All are welcome to grab a foursome and join us at Sweetbriar Golf Course in Avon Lake on Monday, September 22.

Sunday, October 12 | 12:30-2:30 p.m. | Saint Joseph Academy Campus. Registration required at sja1890.org/admission.

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.

Saint Joseph Academy | Summer