UPDATE Magazine: Winter 2024

MAGAZINE

SAINT JOSEPH ACADEMY

The SJA Journey Begins

Winter 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 | Winter 2024 Dear Alumnae, Families and Friends of Saint Joseph Academy,

1

President’s Letter

I recently had the privilege of participating in an evening Labre Ministry outreach with six of our students and an adult volunteer, where we served meals and engaged in conversations with our unhoused neighbors in Cleveland. It was inspiring to witness our students interact with such compassion and openness, highlighting the character and empathy we aim to cultivate. This experience closely aligns with our theme for the year, Service to the Dear Neighbor Without Distinction, inspired by the charism of the Congregation of St. Joseph. Our community is embracing this mission wholeheartedly by engaging with one another and reaching out to those in need. We began the year with a book discussion on this theme and held an adult retreat where faculty and staff dedicated part of their day to serving others and modeling this spirit of service for our students.

5

Principal’s Corner

7

Fall Athletics

8

Class of 2028

10

Living the Mission

12

Grand Reunion

14

Advancement

18

Scholarship

19

Memoriam

20

Class Notes

21

Cub Club

In addition to our focus on service, we are excited to implement our new strategic plan, Rooted in Love, Partnering for Growth: A Strategic Vision for Saint Joseph Academy 2024-2028. This plan includes initiatives aimed at enriching learning and strengthening our community. We have launched a pilot of the Academy Humanities Scholars Program, offering a unique and engaging approach to exploring culture, history and literature. With the support of Sherwin-Williams and JobsOhio, our STEAM offerings have deepened, expanding pathways for our students in science, technology, engineering, art and math. We are also working to enhance alumnae relations by creating new ways to keep our graduates connected and engaged with the Academy.

Within our community, we are fostering civil discourse, nurturing a sense of belonging, and creating joyful connections. Events like Grand Reunion, Founders’ Day, and our Upperclass Induction/Ring Ceremony have brought us together in celebration, while retreats have offered students opportunities for reflection, spirituality and deeper relationships. Together, these experiences highlight the vibrant spirit and warmth that define Saint Joseph Academy.

Our students continue to excel academically and creatively, achieving honors across various fields, including the visual and performing arts. We are proud to announce that two of our students have been named National Merit Semifinalists this year, and Saint Joseph Academy has received recognition as an AP Honor Roll Platinum school—the highest award level. Our fall sports teams have been incredibly successful. Several teams even advanced to the State level of the post-season tournament!

As we enter the winter months and holiday season, I want to express my gratitude for all the ways you support our Academy community. Wishing you and your family a joyful and peaceful holiday season. Sursum Corda! Lift up your hearts!

With gratitude,

Mrs. Kathryn H. Purcell

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, Joseph Basalla, Kristen Busa, Erin Cunningham, Kathy Flinn, Kathleen Jones Hensley ’15, Hannah Hill ’16, Courtney Koz, Melissa Murphy, Carolyn Conway Novak ’06, Bryce Ormiston, Molly Powers ’18, Kathryn Purcell, Constance S. Sipple, CFRE, Jeff Sutliff, Megan Wackerly, Dr. Jessica Wrobleski and Robert Zdankiewicz.

Photography courtesy is extended to the following: Al Fuchs Photography, Kristen Busa, Erin Cunningham, Kathleen Jones Hensley ’15, Lifetouch/Prestige Photography, Melissa Mandula ’04, Laura McCarty Waryk ’07, Emily Gaul Minnich ’97, Esther Ngemba ’18, Ripcho Studios, Clare Toole, Jewel Yokie ’16 and Megan Wackerly.

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: Tristen Rolda ’28, Maria Davis ’28 (sister of Bethany Davis ’10 and Anna Davis ’22), Emily Williams ‘28 (granddaughter of Gail Weisman N’72) and Emma Kiernozek ’28

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

2 | SUMMER SERVICE

Seeing and Living Charism Through Direct Service to the Dear Neighbor Article written by: CORE Ministry Member Mrs. Kristen Busa In June, the Academy continued to build and nurture our long standing relationship with Affirming, Believing, Learning and Empowering (ABLE Families), a non-profit, faith-based agency located in West Virginia. Each year, the Academy sends students and adults to run summer camps with ABLE Families. About every third summer, we invite elementary-aged students, approximately 20, to visit Cleveland as an opportunity to learn from one another.

There is no better way to understand the CSJ charism of unifying love than to watch our students work with the children from ABLE Families. Relationships are formed and everyone becomes a better version of themselves. Our students are moved with compassion for children whose lives are drastically different from their own, and they respond with gratitude and love. The children from Kermit are inspired by our students and the opportunities that they have and they feel comfortable and loved by them. Everyone walks away better because of this partnership and I’m so grateful that I’ve been able to watch and help facilitate it for 12 years.

Lastly, it is amazing to see how many members of the adult community helped with the visit by either donating their time or items. We have an incredible adult community supporting this partnership and our mission.

During the service experience, I met this young boy named Terry who made me appreciate the little things in my life more. He always had a smile on his face even with all the hardships he faces at home. This experience really helped me meet more people and learn about their lives, also building friendships with them hoping one day to go on a service trip to them!

- Mara Cuejdeanu ’27

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Children learning with robots in the Howley Makerspace innovation lab.

Experiential Learning Through the Academy’s Distinguished Programs Beyond everyday curriculum, Saint Joseph Academy students have the opportunity to participate in unique programs designed to prepare them for a life of compassionate leadership and service in potential careers. These distinguished programs - the Health Sciences Honors Program, Engineering & Design Honors Program, Global Scholars Program and the newest Academy Humanities Scholars Program - incorporate specific curriculum with a variety of experiential learning opportunities such as interactive field trips, community service, capstones, etc.

This combination enables students to gain confidence, reflect upon connections to real-world situations, develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills as they explore aspects of their desired career paths.

Last summer, some students in the Engineering & Design Honors Program continued to gain valuable hands-on experience through a special service project - building a doghouse for a local non-profit

organization’s fundraiser. Engineering Teacher and Department Chair Mr. Bryce Ormiston, Engineering & Design Honors Program Coordinator Mr. Robert Zdankiewicz and Student Support Services Member Mrs. Courtney Koz guided the students through the entire process, from how to read a blueprint, to determining the amount of building materials needed, using the necessary power tools and how to apply roofing materials.

The finished doghouse was donated to BAYart’s Bark in Park fundraiser. Bark in the Park raises funds to help maintain the Bay Village Dog Kennel as well as support their free community programming. At the event, Academy students who worked on the doghouse showcased it at their booth. Visual Arts Teacher and Department Chair Mrs. Tammy Spark’s recycled plastic bottle caps dog was also on display.

I joined the Engineering & Design Honors Program because I am very intrigued and interested in math, science and art. I figured it would be a great way to get more experience with my interests! The doghouse was one of the biggest projects I have done at SJA. I learned a whole lot about measuring, cutting, and drilling techniques. What stuck out the most to be when building the dog house was when we were putting the trim on. I quickly realized how precise you have to be, and that angle cuts take lots of trial and error!

My favorite part was working together with my friends to solve any problems or issues we ran into. It was also fun to be creative and hands-on in school because it is not something we get to do every day.

- Lily Kowalski ’25 (sister of Jessica Kowalski ’22)

- Kaylee Synk ’25 (sister of Abygail Synk ’22)

L-R: Lily Kowalski ’25 (sister of Jessica Kowalski ’22), Grace Gonet ’25, Gabriella Croce ’25 and Kaylee Synk ’25 (sister of Abygail Synk ’22)

4 | EXTRAORDINARY MINISTERS

Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion Commissioned In September, 34 Seniors were commissioned as Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion. During the Commissioning Mass, these Seniors distributed Holy Communion to their family, friends and the community for the first time.

Congratulations to the following Seniors: Maeve Baker, Grace Bocan, Alexia Braseman (granddaughter of Sue McNeeley ’85 and daughter of Rachel McNeeley ’05), Rafi Catacutan, Annemarie Dorsey (granddaughter of Christine Lynch Dorsey ’66), Amarily Ginorio (sister of Aracely Ginorio ’17 and Ashley Ginorio ’19), Grace Gonet, Evelyn Hagan, Mia Hanley (sister of Ella Hanley ’23), Lucy Hanna (daughter of Tobey Douglas Hanna ’94 and sister of Elly Hanna ’20, Abigail Hanna ’21 and Molly Hanna ’22), Grace Harris, Katherine Heighberger, Shannon Hough (granddaughter of Margaret McNeeley Harkness ’60 and sister of Meghan Hough ’20 and Mary Clare Hough ’21), Francesca Jelovich (daughter of Angela Jelovich ’94), Mary Kim, Amelia Kotlarsic, Kiara Le-Quay, Gianna Lusk, Bridget Masterson, Meghan Mays, Ella McCabe, Adela Munishi, Grace Novak, Elizabeth Papesch, Audrey Schilens (sister of Paige Schilens ’23), Nicole Schram, Isabel Silva, Danielle Smith, Sienna Stephens, Katherine Viets, Vannessa Walker (granddaughter of Maureen Burke ’62), Morgan Wearsch and Tegan Webb (granddaughter of Kathleen Seeholzer Webb ’64 and Kathleen Mercer Walsh ’66).

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I wanted to become an Extraordinary Minister to practice my beliefs and serve my community. I believe that this position will help to increase my faith. I was very proud to be commissioned during Mass.

It was an honor to be surrounded by my family, my friends, and the SJA community.

I look forward to future all school masses where I can serve communion. As my faith is an important part of my life, I am grateful that the CORE Ministry has given me the opportunity to become a Eucharistic Minister.

I envision continuing this opportunity with my local parish community.

- Evelyn Hagan ’25

PRINCIPAL’S CORNER “Approaching, speaking, listening, looking at, coming to know and understand one another, and to find common ground: all these things are summed up in the one word “dialogue”. If we want to encounter and help one another, we have to dialogue…Unlike disagreement and conflict, persistent and courageous dialogue does not make headlines, but quietly helps the world to live much better than we imagine.”

-Pope Francis’s Encyclical Fratelli Tutti (section 198)

Pope Francis’s words highlight how impactful conversations among individuals and groups can be positive steps toward fulfilling God’s plan for us. Indeed, few would argue that the need for honest, respectful conversations across social, political and cultural divides represents a glaringly unmet need in our local and global communities. Since its origins in 17th Century France, the Congregation of St. Joseph has served to meet the unmet needs of the people around them. Their work continues today through the Saint Joseph Academy community, where students are formed in the spirituality of the

Congregation and inspired by the same desire to serve God and the Dear Neighbor without distinction. Our mission to form women of unifying love is as vital today as the work of the first Sisters of St. Joseph. With students from 56 different zip codes, our student body inspires and challenges us to build relationships across economic and cultural divides and, through dialogue, to meet the unmet needs of our day.

We accomplish this work in many ways, both inside and outside of the classroom.

Our students’ first experience on campus as Freshmen is now a spiritual retreat. Through the retreat, students are introduced to the spirituality of the Sisters of St. Joseph and the mission of unity, all in the context of our school as a faith community. The Freshman Advisory Program builds on that experience, with smaller groups meeting regularly and providing the opportunity for both formal and informal discussions. Some of these interactions occur during group service opportunities at the Westside Catholic Center, where students come together to Serve the Dear Neighbor Without Distinction. Other opportunities for dialogue occur during restorative circle discussions on topics that can

be as simple as sharing the day-to-day events of our lives or as deep as conversations about our faith, hopes and dreams.

Jesus, the master teacher, taught and engaged in dialogue through parables, simple stories that clarified profound truths.

His stories inspired dialogue among all who heard them and continue to provide foundational understandings for our community of faith and dialogue about what it means to be Christian. Our teachers embrace that tradition by continuing to embrace the power of storytelling to promote dialogue. And not only do our teachers tell great stories, they are also intentional about teaching the art of storytelling, an art form that has promoted dialogue and understanding since the dawn of humanity. In the words of storyteller Patti Digh, “The shortest distance between two people is a story.”

The dialogue in our community is a source of hope. It requires intentionality, courage and effort. Sometimes, we struggle. But it’s worth it, and in the words of Mother Teresa, “God doesn’t require us to succeed, he only requires that you try.”

Seniors Receive National Recognition for Academic Achievement Congratulations to Seniors Caroline Favetti and Adelaide McGee who were named National Merit Semifinalists for their academic excellence through the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®). With this honor, these young women now have the opportunity to continue in the competition for some 6,870 National Merit Scholarships worth nearly $26 million. They may also include this prestigious academic honor on their college and scholarship applications, helping them stand out during the college/ university admissions process.

L-R: Caroline Favetti ’25 and Adelaide McGee ’25

6 | UPPERCLASS

Upperclass Induction/Ring Ceremony Congratulations to the 152 young women of the Class of 2026 on officially becoming Upperclass women at the Academy.

L-R: Finola O’Linn ’26, Madelaine Catacutan ’26 and Hero Kate ’26 (sister of Htoo Htoo Thaw ‘20) L-R: Martina Maline ’26 (sister of Madeline Maline ’21, Margaret Maline ’22 and Melissa Maline ’24), Brigid Hyland ’26 (sister of Mary Hyland ’17) and Katherine Goodman ’26

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Fall Athletics

Katherine Heighberger ’25 Soccer: The Varsity team advanced to the OHSAA Division I District Final match, marking the second time in school history the team made it to the District Final. Head Coach Mr. Thom Clark P’24 won the GCSSCA 2024 Private/ Parochial Coach of the Year. Assistant Coach Mr. Brent George won the GCSSCA 2024 Private/Parochial Assistant Coach of the Year.

Cross Country: The Cross Country team placed 11th at the OHSAA Division I State Meet with runners achieving their personal bests.

Melanie Statsevych ’28 Volleyball: The Varsity team won the OHSAA Division I Regional Championship and finished the season as OHSAA Division I State Runner-Up. First year Head Coach Ms. Jordan Kortowich ’15 won the 2024 Coach of the Year for OHSVCA Division I, District 2.

Gianna Reginelli ’25 Cross Country: Gianna Reginelli ’25 finished fourth in the OHSAA Division I State Golf Tournament. Head Coach Mrs. Maureen Fallon Adler ‘79, P’06, ‘08 & ‘10 won the Ohio High School Golf 2024 Coach of the Year, Division I Award.

Tennis: The Tennis team sent one athlete, Melanie Statsevych ’28, to the OHSAA District Tournament.

8 | CLASS OF 2028

The Class of 2028 Begins Their Journey at the Academy

On August 21, the community was excited to welcome members of the Class of 2028 to the Academy. Over the next four years, these young women will challenge themselves academically, athletically, creatively and spiritually, all with the support of their fellow students and adult community. They will discover the empathy and unifying love of the charism of the Sisters of the Congregation of St. Joseph and learn to apply it in their daily lives.

Welcome, Class of 2028 to the Academy!

Great-grandmother, grandmother, mother, stepmother and sister legacy connections for the class: Mallory Alvarez (sister of Hannah Alvarez ’24), Olivia Anders (granddaughter of Mary Kay Schmieler Nelson ’73), Riley Ashcraft (granddaughter of Patricia Kilbane Geniusz ’67), Grace Corrigan (granddaughter of Rose Wichmann Corrigan ’69), Leah Corrigan (granddaughter of Barbara Thompson Heffernan ’55), Abigail Davis (daughter of Angela Tutak Davis ’95), Molly Davis (daughter of Angela Tutak Davis ’95), Maria Davis (sister of Bethany Davis ’10 and Anna Davis ’22), Giovanna DeFabio (sister of Isabella DeFabio ’23), Caitlin Gallagher (daughter of Colleen Marini Gallagher ’00), Ava Gorman (daughter of Bridget McGowan Gorman ’99), Beatrix

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Healey (granddaughter of Louise Gerbasi Seeholzer ’50, daughter of Eileen Seeholzer ’87 and sister of Ella Healey ’23), Elizabeth Henry (granddaughter of Margaret Brady ’69), Erin Kelley (sister of Mary Margaret Kelley ’14, Nora Kelley ’17, Grace Kelley ’19 and Maeve Kelley ’21), Margaret Kensick (sister of Catherine Kensick ’21), Celeste Kostecke (daughter of Olivia Schilens Kostecke ’99), Ava Koustis (granddaughter of Linda Schleif Durica N’71), Mary KuglerBlayney (daughter of Bridget Blayney ’93 and sister of Katrin Kugler-Blayney ’15), Layne Masterson (granddaughter of Sandy Schmale Masterson ’65), Emma Maxhimer (sister of Mackenzie Maxhimer ’24), Olivia

Moore (sister of Amaya Moore ’24), Sydney Reichert (daughter of Anna Marie Turchan Reichert ’86, sister of Storey Reichert ’24), Maya Reisner (granddaughter of Kathy Hoban Reisner ’70), Pamela Saadeh (sister of Ursula Seedeh ’21), Carly Schilens (sister of Paige Schilens ’23), Carolyn Skrha (daughter of Patricia Rossman Skrha ’84), Samiyah Speed (sister of Destiny Evans ’15), Isabelle Streeter (sister of Kyleigh Streeter ’21), Leah Wawszkiewicz (granddaughter of Patricia Gedeon Volle ’73 and daughter of Jennifer Volle Wawszkiewicz ’97), Emily Williams (granddaughter of Gail Weisman N’72) and Samantha Zarlino (granddaughter of Margaret Nunney LaSalvia ’64).

Freshman Welcome This tradition creates a special bond between the Senior and Freshman classes.

Through one special day at the Academy, the bond grows stronger throughout the school year through the care and support of one another.

Direct Service During their first year at the Academy, members of the class will participate in at least 10 direct service hours with organizations such as Laura’s Home, St. Augustine, St. Colman’s Church, St. Herman’s House and the Academy’s Labre Ministry. These opportunities will help students begin to understand the charism of the Sisters of the Congregation of St. Joseph.

Freshman Advisory The Freshman Advisory Program aims to further advance the relationship building and spiritual development of the Freshman class, while offering specific formation in the Character of a Saint Joseph Academy Graduate and restorative practices. As part of the program, students visit the West Side Catholic Center and the St. Joseph Center to perform service and learn about the Congregation of St. Joseph.

10 | LIVING THE MISSION

Living the Charism:

Women of Unifying Love Bring Their Voices to the United Nations

By Alumnae Director Hannah Hill ’16 and Vice President of Mission Dr. Jessica Wrobleski Two Saint Joseph Academy alumnae and recent “25 Under 35” honorees, Jewel Yokie ’16 (sister of Joan Yokie Odhiambo ’09) and Esther Ngemba ’18, attended United Nations Non-Governmental Organizations Conferences as representatives of the Congregation of St. Joseph earlier this year. The Congregation sponsors several young adults connected to the CSJ charism and are interested in social justice and global issues to participate in the UN-NGO program alongside CSJ Sisters.

Jewel, who currently works at Building Hope in the City in Cleveland, attended the UN Commission on Social Development in February.

Esther, founder and CEO of Furahi: A Taste of Home in Cleveland, participated in the 68th Session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women in March. Their experiences shed light on global efforts toward inclusivity, empowerment and human rights advocacy.

Reflecting on her experience, Jewel shared, “My time at the UN was nothing short of inspirational and empowering. The UN has this slogan: ‘Come to the UN, it’s YOUR world.’ It’s the first thing I noticed upon entering and the last thing I took home with me to share with my friends, family, and colleagues. The UN is for everyone.” Jewel continued, “In the UN, you feel like you belong to something greater.

I felt a sense of purpose, a sense of belonging. The mission is clear: We are all responsible for protecting and securing human rights.”

Esther’s engagement at the UN’s Commission on the Status of Women was equally impactful. She described her journey as “thoughtprovoking and enlightening,” emphasizing the discussions on economic and social empowerment for women’s rights advocacy.

“They highlighted the multifaceted nature of women’s issues, underscoring the need for tailored strategies to address each unique challenge,” Esther shared. Throughout the session, Esther noted a passionate call for immediate action to close the gender gap, echoing global leaders’ sentiments that warm words must be backed by definitive action.

During their time at the Academy, Jewel and Esther learned and began to develop how to live the charism of the Sisters of the Congregation of St. Joseph. Now, as alumnae, their presence at the UN is a representation of living the charism of St. Joseph through unifying love and their “compassionate leadership and service in a global society.”

If you are a young alumna (age 21-35) or you know of a young adult who would be interested in this CSJ program, please reach out to Dr. Wrobleski at jwrobleski@sja1890.org for additional information.

The UN really solidified the importance of putting words into action; connecting what you believe with what you do. I got to see first hand how NGOs play such an essential role in policy shaping. This, I will say, is my greatest takeaway, applying faith and confidence towards our NGOs so that our policies can lead to real life changes.

- Jewel Yokie ’16 (sister of Joan Yokie Odhiambo ’09)

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The privilege of gaining insights from such inspiring world and community leaders has been invaluable. With a fresh perspective, I am eager to incorporate these insights into my future endeavors, focusing particularly on cultivating communities where economies are designed to serve people, not vice versa.

- Esther Ngemba ’16

12 | GRAND REUNION

Welcome Home, Alumnae!

Grand Reunion 2023 2024

class of

1974 Celebrating 50th Reunion

The weekend of October 12-13 was filled with joy, excitement, laughter and memories as over 200 alumnae came home to Saint Joseph Academy for Grand Reunion.

Alumnae from years ending in ‘4’ and ‘9’ and members of the Class of 1974 celebrated the sisterhood and friendship fostered through attending the Academy.

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class of

1954

class of

1959

class of

1964

class of

1979

class of

1984

class of

1994

class of

1999

class of

2004

class of

2009

2014

class of

class of

2019

14 | ADVANCEMENT

Nazareth Academy Gather for Annual Reunion In September, Nazareth Academy alumnae gathered for their annual Reunion Luncheon at the Cleveland Yacht Club. Over 110 alumnae attended the reunion. This year, the Class of 1974 celebrated their 50th reunion amongst fellow classmates.

Members of the Class of 1974

A

J

A Jaguar Jackpot Thank You!

R

C K P O

Thank you for your incredible support of this year’s Jaguar Jackpot! As a result of the efforts of our students, their parents/guardians and families – and our loyal alumnae – the Academy’s goal was surpassed at a record-high 114% of goal! The decade most represented was the ‘90s! The winner of the $50 Amazon eGift Card was Maggie McGowan Murray ’92.

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UA

T

G JA

Annual Golf Classic a Success!

Thank you to the golfers, sponsors and Saint Joseph Academy supporters for attending the 30th Annual Golf Classic! This year, we raised more than $23,000 dollars for the Saint Joseph Academy Scholarship Fund.

Below is the list of sponsors who helped make the day possible.

Gold Sponsor Ennis Court

1890 Sponsors

Duke Inspection Services Equitable Advisors, LLC, Abby Peterson The Frangos Group Charitable Foundation, Inc.

Jaguar Sponsors

Avalon Foodservice, Inc Saint Ignatius High School Schoolbelles by Kip Craft, Inc.

Purple Sponsors

Bob & Tory Torok Cleveland Kickers Soccer Club Julia and Dan Mayer Mansour Gavin, LPA One Digital Health and Benefits Regency Construction Services, Inc.

Beverage Sponsors

Jim Wise Golf Academy Lake Point Medical Group Personal Leasing Transportation Co. The Petti Family SP Mount Printing Co Susan Love, Realtor

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

16 | LASTING LEGACY

Making a Lasting Impact “Giving back to the Academy can come in many different forms,” Emily Gaul Minnich ’97 shared as she reflected on her involvement with the Academy.

For the last 20 years, Emily has been a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) at UBS Financial Services specializing in Retirement Plans.

She credits her time at the Academy as having shaped the person she has become.

“The confidence in myself and the leadership skills that were developed and nurtured at SJA allowed me to overcome challenges not only in my education, but also in my career,” Emily shared.

That is why she gives back to the Academy.

Since 2022, Emily has volunteered her time and shared her talent with the next generation of young women at the Academy. She has been a guest speaker in Math and Personal Finance classes discussing possible career paths in math, student loan debt and the importance of saving for retirement. Emily’s involvement with the Academy grew further, joining the Board of Directors and SJA SGO Board of Directors in 2024. “Joining the Board was a great opportunity to give back and stay connected to the Academy and the Saint Joseph community,” Emily shared. “It has also given me the chance to

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reconnect with some of my classmates and faculty and staff at SJA. It is a great reminder on how close the SJA community continues to be.”

Emily also contributes to the Academy’s Annual Fund and scholarship granting organization, SJA SJO. “Giving back to the Academy is integral in providing Emily Gaul Minnich ’97 young women the same opportunities my mother, aunts, sister, and friends have had,” Emily shared. “There are so many families that are able to be part of the SJA community through the generous donations of the women that came before us. Going back to the Academy you are able to see how every little bit helps.”

Thank you, Emily for your passion and dedication to helping shape the next generation of young women at the Academy.

The confidence in myself and the leadership skills that were developed and nurtured at SJA allowed me to overcome challenges not only in my education, but also in my career.

Supporting the Young Women of the Academy Through the Annual Fund Thanks to the generous donations to the Academy’s Annual Fund, our students were able to continue their learning and service in and beyond the classroom. In October, the Women’s Philanthropy Institute at the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy released its sixth annual Women & Girls Index (WGI). The WGI is the only comprehensive index that measures charitable giving to organizations dedicated to women and girls in the U.S. While issues affecting women and girls have received increased attention, less than 2% of philanthropic support goes to U.S. organizations solely dedicated to women and girls. In this season of giving, it is our sincere hope that you will consider making a year-end gift to the Annual Fund in supporting the Academy’s women of unifying love. To make your gift today, go to www.sja1890.org/donate, use the enclosed envelope or scan the QR code.

Supporting Women

of Unifying Love

18 | SCHOLARSHIP

Tax Savvy Ways to Support the Academy The Saint Joseph Academy Scholarship Granting Organization (SJA SGO) allows you to financially help students through tuition assistance and receive a dollar-for-dollar state tax credit.

Contributing to the SJA SGO gives you a voice in where your state tax dollars go and you directly impact the lives of students. This credit is limited to the lesser of $750 for an individual (or $1,500 if married filing jointly).

Please note, gifts must be made payable to SJA SGO by April 15, 2025 in order to receive the donation credit for your 2024 state taxes. Visit www.sja1890.org/sjasgo for more information on giving.

Step 1

Estimate your Ohio tax liability

Step 2

Donate to SJA SGO

by April 15 or the date you file

Step 3

Claim your tax credit in your 2024 Ohio tax form with the tax credit receipt mailed to you

SAINT JOSEPH ACADEMY

Scholarship Granting Organization

Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs), also known as IRA Charitable Rollovers, are the savviest way for individuals age 70½ or older to use their Traditional IRAs to maximize their charitable impact. QCDs are distributions from your Individual Retirement Account (IRA) made directly to Saint Joseph Academy without having the distribution counted as taxable income.

Up to $105,000 in IRA funds can be counted as QCDs annually, or $210,000 for married couples.

Securities and mutual funds that have increased in value and been held for more than one year are popular assets to use when making a gift to Saint Joseph Academy. Making a gift of securities or mutual funds offers you the chance to support our work while realizing important benefits for yourself. When you donate securities to Saint Joseph Academy, you receive the same income tax savings that you would if you wrote a check, but with the added benefit of eliminating capital gains taxes on the transfer, which can be as high as 20 percent.

Tip: It is critical to let us know of your gift because many popular retirement plan administrators and/or financial services providers assume no obligation to notify a charity of your designation. They also will not monitor whether your gift designations are followed.

To learn more about these opportunities, contact Constance Sipple, CFRE, Vice President of Institutional Advancement at 216.671.0166 or csipple@sja1890.org.

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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Memoriam Please remember in your prayers the following deceased alumnae: Aileen Norton ’41

Julie Sine ’64

Rosemary Frantz Schnupp ’44

Patricia Miller Cramer ’67

Marguerite Fitzgerald Martin ’45

Diana Lucarino-Diekmann N’68

Josephine Berry Fiske ’47

Diane Koch Speigal ’69

Maureen Hart McLaughlin ’47

Rhea Becker Thomas N’72

Virginia Holub Davidson ’49

Joan Susic Tompkins ’76

Barbara Kent Foderaro ’50

Lauren Lincks Winter ’77

Margaret Heverin Faul ’51

Anna Maria Micko ’79

Alice Coyle Lunn ’52

Colleen Nemcek ’85

Katherine Berger Gavel ’53

Jennifer Leahy ’86

Nancy Busser Pohlman ’54

Michelle Nader ’86

Jeanne Hejra Botson ’55

Heather Hughes ’97

Joan Sabol McGinty ’55

Caryn Kilpatrick Diloreto ’00

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

May they rest in peace.

Phyllis DiLorenzo Schumitsh ’55 Margaret “Peggy” Whelan Farling ’56 Yvonne Klein Barbieri ’57 Mary Barb “Mary” Shuttera Marks ’58 Sr. Priscilla Saxton, CSJ ’58 Carole Zeitz Yurek ’58 Eileen Reynolds Durante ’60 Rosemary Hansen Raeske N’60 Maureen Hanton Roche ’61 Rita Hakey Szy ’63

This list reflects alumnae losses that Saint Joseph Academy has been made aware of as of October 15, 2024.

20 | CLASS NOTES

Victoria Fensel ’89 celebrated her second anniversary of the founding of her business, NOW Fulfillment, LLC. Started in May 2022, NOW Fulfillment focuses on prep and fulfillment for e-commerce sellers including Amazon, Shopify, Walmart, Etsy and Ebay clients.

In August, Angela Sweeney Miller ’90 was promoted to Senior Director of Marketing & Events and sits on the executive team for the Institute for Supply Management. The Institute for Supply Management is a century-old non-profit association who provides research, certification, education and content for the supply chain industry.

Liz Foraker Philips ’97 married David Philips in Las Vegas, Nevada on March 4, 2024.

2000s

Carli Budzilek ’01 (formerly Carli Fousek, daughter of Helenrae Budzilek ’77) is requesting graduates of the Class of 2001 and surrounding years to send notes of Saint Joseph Academy memories and messages of well wishes to Carli. Carli was diagnosed with a rare fatal genetic disease, Adult Onset Metachromatic Leukodystrophy, in 2020. Carli is able to recall memories of her time at the Academy and hopes some messages from former classmates would make her smile. If you would like to send a letter or card, please mail to: Carli Budzilek 6452 Big Creek PKWY Parma Hts, OH 44130.

Brooke Hamilton Seiler ’09 has been named a Class of 2024 Inductee into the Baldwin Wallace University Athletics Hall of Fame for Women’s Golf. Brooke holds the No. 1 all-time season scoring record and collected 14 tournament titles, including two conference championships and two appearances at the NCAA Division III National Tournament.

2010s

1990s 1980s 1970s

Maureen Fallon Adler ’79, P’06, ’08 & ’10, Head Coach of the Academy’s Golf team, won the 2024 Ohio High School Golf Division I Coach of the Year Award.

Mary Jo Morgan ’10 earned her doctorate in education from SUNY-Albany in May 2023. She is an associate professor in the English Department at Belmont Abbey College in North Carolina where she teaches writing. Mary Jo is also the director of the college’s writing center.

In September, Virginia “Ginny” Sullivan ’13 delivered the Keynote Address at the American Occupational Therapy Association National Adult Rehabilitation Speciality Conference in Cleveland.

The lecture highlighted the distinct role that occupational therapy plays in utilizing non-pharmacological behavioral interventions for individuals with hospital-acquired delirium. Ginny is currently a Senior Occupational Therapist at Cleveland Clinic.

Rain Doskocil Chavis ’14 married Daniel Chavis Jr. at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist on August 31, 2024. Her maid of honor was Christina Sweeney ’14.

Jordan Kortowich ’15, Head Coach of the Academy’s Varsity Volleyball team, won the Ohio High School Volleyball Coaches Association (OHSVCA) 2024 Coach of the Year, Division I, District 2.

Ella “El” Healey ’23 was a student-scientist that presented original research at Ohio Wesleyan University’s 32nd annual Patricia Belt Conrades Summer Science Research Symposium. El’s research was “In-Person Recruitment for ABC Quit Smoking Cessation Study in Pediatric Clinics.”

2020s

Alumnae Class Notes

Sadie Urso Kriska ’24 was one of four high school students selected for a paid summer internship at the Cleveland Foodbank. The program, called Student Leaders®, was an eight-week paid summer internship educating students about skills development, work experience, leadership, service and “financial education coaching from Bank of America’s Better Money Habits curriculum.” As part of the program, Sadie also attended a national leadership summit in Washington, D.C. on collaboration between business, government and nonprofit organizations.

In September, Makaela Lubrano ’24 earned her Gold Award with the Girl Scouts. The Gold Award is the highest award a student may earn as a Girl Scout. Makaela developed a program called “Catering Cares” that provides meals for families of children receiving medical treatment in local hospitals. Less than 5% of scouts achieve this accomplishment. Makaela is studying Media Arts/Graphic Design, minoring in Theatre at Cleveland State University.

Quill Thompson ’24 received a 2024 Scholastic Arts & Writing Regional Gold Key Award and the Writing American Voices & Visions Award for a writing piece entitled, “Emilie.” As a Gold Key Award winner, Quill’s piece went for national recognition in the competition and earned it. Quill was the only student in the country to receive all three awards in the 2024 Scholastic Arts & Writing Awards: the National Gold Key Award, Writing American Voices & Visions Award and the New York Life Foundation Scholarship (one of 10 students nationwide to win this scholarship).

Saint Joseph Academy | Winter

Cub Club Kathleen Finn Herker ’08 and Andrew Herker a daughter, Madilyn, born July 9, 2024.

Samantha Manzuk ’09 and Tanis York a daughter, Elanor Louise, born June 27, 2024.

Sarah Billittier Kundmueller ’11 and Mark Kundmueller a daughter, Madelyn, born May 17, 2024.

Maureen Wolf Longmuir ’09 and Derek Longmuir a son, Beckett, born January 15, 2024.

Catherine Boskovitch Russo ’10 and Vince Russo a daughter, Stella, born June 12, 2024.

Kimberly Chiracu Quickel ’12 and Matthew Quickel a daughter, Mia, born February 10, 2024.

Please join us for a fun and memorable evening benefiting Saint Joseph Academy student scholarships and academic initiatives.

Saturday, February 22, 2025 at 6 p.m.

Saint Joseph Academy, Academy Center Honoring Maureen Fallon Adler ’79, P’06, ’08 & ’10 2025 Distinguished Alumna Award Honoree Terrence P. Keenan 2025 Medaille Shield Award Honoree For more information visit www.sja1890.org/CTA or for sponsorship opportunities contact Development Director Melissa Murphy at 216.251.6788 ext. 232.

MAGAZINE

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

Upcoming Events An Evening of Mindfulness

Cleveland Rivals Unite Challenge

Saint Joseph Academy alumnae and parents/guardians are invited to join us virtually for an evening of mindful reflection and intentionsetting on Thursday, January 9, 2025 as we begin the new year and celebrate the Feast of the Epiphany. The evening will offer the opportunity for prayer, guided reflection and sharing with others in the hopes that this time together will bring insight and inspiration for the year to come. Vice President of Mission Dr. Jessica Wrobleski will facilitate this virtual gathering. The event is free of charge, but space is limited. Register at www.sja1890.org/epiphany. If you have questions, please contact the Alumnae Office at alumnae@sja1890. org or 216.251.6788 ext. 221.

Get ready to show your Jaguar spirit during the Cleveland Rivals Unite alumnae giving challenge, April 28-30, 2025. More details to come!

Evening of Reflection Please join us on Monday, April 14, 2025 for our annual Evening of Reflection for Women. This event is designed as an evening of spiritual and personal reflection. Please contact the Alumnae Office at alumnae@sja1890.org or 216.251.6788 ext. 221 with questions. More information will be forthcoming.

Spring Open House for Prospective Families On Thursday, March 20 , 2025 from 5-7 p.m., join us for a personalized tour of our beautiful campus! Learn about our academic offerings and programs, and meet our amazing teachers, coaches and students. Registration required.

Spring at the Academy On Friday, April 4 , 2025, girls in grades 2-5 are invited to get ready for Spring by attending this Student Ambassador-led event.

Students will make a springtime craft and enjoy a fun afternoon at the Academy. Registration required.

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.