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.
Dear Saint Joseph Academy Community,
As we approach the Christmas season and the close of another remarkable year, our hearts are filled with gratitude and joy. The 2025–2026 school year began with a spirit of purpose, and our community continues to serve as a shining example of unity, love and faith in action.
We started the school year by welcoming the Class of 2029 and our new transfer students during our Yellow Rose Ceremony and Freshman Welcome. These beloved traditions beautifully symbolize the lifelong sisterhood that begins the moment a young woman joins our Academy community.
This fall, our Grand Reunion once again brought alumnae from across generations back to campus to reunite, reminisce and renew their love for the Academy. It was a wonderful weekend. Alumnae toured the campus and connected with classmates and friends. Family-friendly activities included a spirited Trunk-or-Treat! Additionally, our fall Open House and Preview Night offered future Jaguars and their families a glimpse into the community and spirit that define Saint Joseph Academy.
In this issue, we celebrate the achievements of our outstanding students, including three National Merit Semi-Finalist Scholars, each earning a perfect ACT® score, and seven Commended Scholars and the 43 Seniors who chose to deepen their commitment to faith and service as they were commissioned as Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion.
Another highlight of this fall was our 1890 Groundbreaking Celebration for the new addition to campus, part of the InspireSJA Campaign. Surrounded by alumnae, parents, students and friends, we reflected on the generations that have helped build this community and looked forward with excitement to the bright future we are shaping together. Over the last several months, it has been exciting to watch the building come to life.
As 2025 comes to a close, I am grateful for the generous support of our alumnae, parents/guardians and friends, who make the Academy’s mission possible. Your prayers, presence and gifts ensure that Saint Joseph Academy continues to cultivate young women empowered to serve the dear neighbor without distinction. I invite you to remember the Academy in your end-of-year giving, helping us continue to inspire excellence and deepen our mission for generations to come.
May this Christmas season bring you peace and joy. From all of us at Saint Joseph Academy, we wish you and your loved ones a blessed Christmas and a joyful New Year.
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, Erin Cunningham, Kathy Flinn, Kathleen Jones Hensley ’15, Hannah Hill ’16, Susan Hren, Becky Goede McNulty ‘96, P’29, Melissa Murphy, Carolyn Conway Novak ’06, Brian Patton, Molly Powers ’18, Kathryn Purcell, Constance S. Sipple, CFRE, Jeff Sutliff, Hilary Watts 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 and Ripcho Studios.
For more information, please contact the Marketing Communications Director Cheryl Arnold at carnold@sja1890. org. Interested in receiving UPDATE via email versus mail? Send an email to alumnae@sja1890.org
On the cover: Madelaine Catacutan ’26 (sister of Rafi Catacutan ’25) distributing Holy Communion for the first time at the Commissioning Mass for Extraordinary Ministers of
Saint Joseph Academy 3470 Rocky River Drive • Cleveland, Ohio 44111 216.251.6788 • www.sja1890.org
On Wednesday, August 20, the community welcomed 134 members of the Class of 2029 to the Academy. At the end of their first day as Jaguars, they experienced their first of many traditions to come, the Yellow Rose Ceremony. During the ceremony, each new jaguar received one yellow rose symbolizing her entrance into the community.
Roses continue to have a special meaning to Saint Joseph Academy. Freshmen receive a yellow rose (which symbolizes joy and friendship) during their Rose Ceremony, signifying the start of their journey at Saint Joseph Academy. Students will then receive a single red rose their Junior year at the Upper-Class Induction Ceremony, signifying their transition to becoming upperclasswomen. As Seniors, students receive a bouquet of red roses (which symbolizes appreciation and respect) to carry during their “Walk of the Roses” ceremony, signifying the end of their journey and graduation from the Academy.
We welcome the Class of 2029 and look forward to seeing them grow over the next four years!
Great-grandmother, grandmother, mother, stepmother and sister legacy connections for the class:
Madelyn Boehnlein (sister of Abigail Boehnlein ’20), Solymar Bruno (granddaughter of Brenda Narvaez Carreon ’89), Elizabeth Campbell (granddaughter of Judith Bitterman Miller N’65), Isabella Carroll (granddaughter of Kathleen Balicki Stack N’67), Leah Cooney (daughter of Christine Ellis Cooney ’05), Maeve Coyne (daughter of Suzanne Robinson Coyne ’91), Reese Cupach (granddaughter of Rita Jones Galinas N’73 and sister of Emily Cupach ’25), Caroline Dinger (sister of Audrey Dinger ’23), Elizabeth Dorton (granddaughter of Constance Merrick Zamiska N’71), Bailey Ellis (granddaughter of Bernardine Kall Caja ’52), Teagan Frey (granddaughter of Ann Wilkins Kalt ’76 and daughter of Sarah Kalt Frey ’02), Caroline Grady (sister of Mary Kate Grady ’24), Grace Grudzien (daughter of Diane Graham-Grudzien ’88 and sister of Gabrielle Grudzien ’21), Sarah Hyland (sister of Mary Hyland ’17), Lyla Khuri (sister of Anna Khuri ’23), Madeline Lambert-Shemo (sister of Emma Claire Lambert-Shemo ’22), Grace Litten (daughter of Beth Grzybowski Litten ’99), Olivia McCabe (sister of Ella McCabe ’25), Julia McNulty (daughter of Becky Goede McNulty ’96), Hadyn Michalski (daughter of Patricia York Michalski ’89 and sister of Reagan Michalski ’24), Fiona Mulcahy (granddaughter of Teresa McNulty Jecker N’78 and daughter of Sarah Jecker Mulcahy ’99), Kathleen Murray (daughter of Margaret McGowan Murray ’92), Elise Pietromica (granddaughter of Pamela Supp Pietromica ’56), Catherine Puchmeyer (granddaughter of Judy Campanella Puchmeyer ’62 and Mary Ann Aust Davidson N’63 and sister of Ava Puchmeyer ‘24), Bridget Reilly (daughter of Kathy Joyce Reilly ’93), Bride Ross (daughter of Bridget Monroe Ross ’96 and sister of Maeve Ross ’22 and Fiona Ross ’24), Mira Seeholzer (great-granddaughter of Louise Gerbasi Seeholzer ’50 and granddaughter of Claire Smith Seeholzer ’75), Evelyn Serevitch (daughter of Katie Dyczek Serevitch ’97), Ella Skladany (sister of Gracelyn Smith Skladany ’24), Brooke Wearsch (sister of Morgan Wearsch ’25), Stella Welch (daughter of Beth Boscarelli Welch ’00) and Lucy White (daughter of Christi Aerni White ’93)
In September, over 130 members of the community gathered to bless and break ground for the Academy’s new addition. This 8,400-square-foot addition, adjacent to the Academy Center, will provide new spaces for athletics and wellness, performing arts and a welcoming commons area that will foster community for generations of Saint Joseph Academy students.
This new addition has been made possible by the generosity of many donors and our lead supporters, The Howley Foundation, the Congregation of St. Joseph and Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis ’71. We are excited to see the addition come to life over the next several months, with an expected opening of Fall 2026.
Twenty-one students are participating in Construction Academy in partnership with Regency Construction and AECOM. Students are meeting monthly to learn about the project and gain real-world insights into the building process.
Students include Elizabeth Ahern ’27 (sister of Vivian Ahern ’24), Marin Petti ’27, Bridie Hyland ’26 (sister of Mary Hyland ’17), Alaina Gardner ’26 (daughter of Laureen Fergus Gardner ’88 and sister of Shannon Gardner ’22), Ella Antonetti ’27 (sister of Mya Antonetti ’24), Yeva Borys ’26, Ava Reed ’26, Willa Streeter ’27 (sister of Kyleigh Streeter ’21), Mia Strauss ’26, Dani Candelaria-Luna ’26 (Daughter of Garbiela Luna-Galindo ’01), Rachel Oldfield ’26, Marian Kilbane ’27 (granddaughter of Sally Conway Kilbane ’60 and sister of Katelyn Kilbane ’24 and Grace Kilbane ’25), Amore Johnson ’27, Macy Schilens ’27 (sister of Paige Schilens ’23 and Audrey Schilens ’25), Ella Babcock ’27, Silvia Lanese ’26, Ella Schneider ’27, Jezebel Kostecke ’27 (daughter of Olivia Schilens Kostecke ’99), Jesslyn Kostecke ’27 (daughter of Olivia Schilens Kostecke ’99) and Caitlin Gibel ’26.
The Academy is excited to share that 10 Seniors received national recognition for their academic achievement; three were named National Merit Semifinalists and seven were named Commended Scholars. In addition, the three National Merit Semifinalists also earned the highest possible composite score, 36, on the ACT® Exam. This is the second year in a row that SJA Seniors have earned this academic achievement on the ACT® and the first time in school history that three earned a composite score of 36 in the same year.
L-R Front Row: Olivia Schaffner ’26: Commended Scholar, Abigail Campbell ’26: National Merit Semifinalist and earned 36 on ACT® Exam, Jasmine Chen ’26: Commended Scholar, Madeline Roisman ’26 (sister of Cassandra Roisman ’23): Commended Scholar and Rachel Oldfield ’26: Commended Scholar
L-R Back Row: Sophia Payamgis ’26 (sister of Katarina Payamgis ’24): Commended Scholar, Clare Grady ’26: Commended Scholar, Megan Fredrick ’26: National Merit Semifinalist and earned 36 on ACT® Exam, Katherine Sandy ’26 (granddaughter of Linda McGinty Hyland ’68): National Merit Semifinalist and earned 36 on ACT® Exam and Megan Sandy ’26 (granddaughter of Linda McGinty Hyland ’68): Commended Scholar
In October, Mercyhurst University and Saint Joseph Academy announced the establishment of an articulation agreement to make the higher education transition process more efficient for highachieving high school students. Signed by Mercyhurst President Kathleen A. Getz, Ph.D., and SJA Principal Mr. Jeff Sutliff, this agreement strengthens students’ educational experiences and provides academic opportunities.
Students at the Academy completing certain courses through the Advanced Placement® (AP®) program can receive college credits with an earned grade of B or better, regardless of their AP® exam scores. Mercyhurst recognizes approximately 15 Saint Joseph Academy AP® courses.
We are proud of this agreement with Saint Joseph Academy. It allows us to provide a value proposition to both SJA students and parents. Their AP® courses are rigorous, and articulating college credit for B grades in AP® courses, regardless of the AP® exam score, recognizes that rigor and helps these bright young women save both time and money.
One of the most powerful memories from my first year as principal came a few weeks into the school year, when I realized that many of the qualities I most admired in my wife, my mother-in-law and my children’s godmothers could be traced to their formation as students at Saint Joseph Academy. In the thirteen years since, I have continued to be blessed to work alongside students, colleagues and families who have been shaped by that same formative experience—each one reflecting the charism of the Congregation of St. Joseph in their own way.
Formation happens through stories— stories passed lovingly from generation to generation, stories that inspire us to carry the mission forward and meet the unmet needs of our time. A common thread running through these stories is how the Sisters of St. Joseph have always welcomed and cherished young women whom others might have overlooked or cast aside. We recall the first Sisters of St. Joseph, who created lace to support their ministries
in schools, orphanages and hospitals. The image of the lace tells a story of its own: an intricate pattern of connection that radiates outward, bringing light to darkness and hope to despair. Even now, 375 years later, we recognize that “the lace is not yet finished.”
Furthermore, formation does not happen by accident; it requires intention. The Maxims of the Little Institute remind us that cordial presence and unifying love come naturally, but not effortlessly. Sister Judith Minear, CSJ, described it beautifully: “Something captured you and called you to say, ‘Yes.’ As people of faith, we believe that this something that stirs in us is the movement of God, the movement of the Holy Spirit, in us and in the world. Your ultimate ‘Yes’ is a sacred response to God’s call.”
This same spirit was captured recently by Lyla Patrick ’27 in her reflection at the Upperclass Induction and Ring Ceremony. She said, “Think about how far we’ve come since freshman year—how our goals, our friendships, and even our sense of selves have changed. Each of us has grown into
“Saint Joseph Academy is proud to partner with Mercyhurst University to expand opportunities for our students who pursue Advanced Placement coursework,” President Mrs. Kathryn Purcell shared. “This agreement affirms the rigor of our AP® program and provides our students with a clear, seamless pathway to earn college credit while in high school. We are grateful to Mercyhurst University for its commitment to fostering academic excellence and supporting our students as they prepare to succeed in higher education and beyond.”
stronger, wiser women of faith and heart. Now it’s our turn to lead. Now it’s our turn to be that positive influence: to lead with empathy, love and courage.” Lyla’s words remind us that formation is both a gift and a responsibility, one that invites each generation to say its own “Yes.”
Finally, formation invites us to action. The call to serve the dear neighbor without distinction urges our students to seek encounters with new people in unfamiliar contexts and to build authentic relationships that reflect the unity for which we strive. Yet service alone is not enough. Reflection and prayer allow our students to see their experiences in the light of faith, deepening their understanding of what it means “to be one with” those they serve.
Through story, intention, and action, the legacy of the Sisters of St. Joseph continues to shape Saint Joseph Academy. The lace may not yet be finished, but its pattern continues to grow, connecting hearts across generations in the unifying love of God and the dear neighbor.
Cross Country: The Cross Country team placed 4th at the OHSAA District Meet, qualifying the team for the OHSAA Regional Meet where they placed 13th. Avery Stives ’27 qualified as an individual for the OHSAA DII State Meet.
Volleyball: The Varsity Volleyball team competed in the OHSAA District Championship. Five students were selected for the OHSVCA Northeast District Three team and Head Coach Varsity Volleyball Ms. Jordan Kortowich ’15 was selected Co-Coach of the Year for the District.
Tennis: Tennis completed the 2025 season at the OHSAA Sectional Tournament.
Emerson Glending ’26
Golf: Emerson Glending ’26 competed in the OHSAA Division I State Golf Tournament and placed 26th. The Varsity team finished 7th at the OHSAA District Tournament.
Soccer: The Varsity Soccer team competed in the OHSAA District Semi-Final. Five students were voted to the All Greater Cleveland First Team and three students earned Honorable Mention. Head Coach Varsity Soccer Mr. Thom Clark P’23 was voted All Greater Cleveland Private/ Parochial Coach of the Year.
In October, 70 Performing Arts students delighted a packed Auditorium for this year’s fall concert. Under the direction of the Instrumental Music Teacher and Performing Arts Department Chair Mr. Brian Patton, the String Orchestra, Jazz Band and Concert Band performed songs that set the mood for a crisp, fall evening.
The Concert Choir, under the direction of Performing Arts, Vocal Music & Dance Teacher Mrs. Hilary Watts, sang four Halloween/fall-themed songs, including “The Bat” by Andy Beck and “The Ballard of the Witches’ Road” arranged by Roger Emerson. Following the Concert Choir, The Academy Chorale delighted the audience with three songs to bring an enchanting evening to a close.
Founded in 1650 in Le Puy-en-Velay, France, the worldwide Congregation of St. Joseph celebrated a significant milestone with its 375th anniversary this year. Following the persecution they endured during the French Revolution, the Congregation grew and spread beyond France, and by the mid-19th century, there were communities putting down roots across the United States frontier.
In 1872, several members of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Erie moved to the Diocese of Cleveland to establish a school, and in 1890 Saint Joseph Academy officially received its charter from the State of Ohio. Originally located near the city’s industrial center, within a few years it was apparent that the school and the Sisters needed a new home. Under the leadership of Mother Theresa Fizmaurice, the Congregation purchased 52 acres of rural land on the city’s west side. This was a bold move at the time, when West Park, still known as Rockport Hamlet, was barely accessible from downtown. An account of the history of the Sisters of St. Joseph in Cleveland written in 1963 proclaims:
Truly, we owe genuine gratitude to our pioneer sisters, for to move to the West Park wilderness in 1898 demanded a vision as great as that of our civic leaders...Today, on this parcel of ‘uninteresting farmland’ stands one of the most beautiful spots in Cleveland–the buildings and grounds of the Mothershouse…of the Sisters of St. Joseph and St. Joseph Academy.
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We are the beneficiaries of all this and more. Whether 135 years ago in Cleveland or 375 years ago in France, the world has changed in unfathomable ways throughout our Congregation’s history. It is interesting to imagine what our “Founding Mothers” would make of Saint Joseph Academy today. What guidance or advice might they offer us, in our current moment?
In our rapidly changing world, may we seek the spirit, wisdom, and vision of our Founders as we look to the future with hope, “that all may be one”.
43 Seniors Completed Training and Commissioned as Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion
Jocelynn Ashwood, Gwenyth Baucco, Madelaine Catacutan (sister of Rafi Catacutan ’25), Gabriella Cisneros, Audrey Crossan (sister of Sydney Crossan ’24), Mary Dial (daughter of Anne Faulhammer Dial ’86 and sister of Catherine Dial ’21), Brianna Dinger (sister of Audrey Dinger ’23), Selena Do, Madallyn Dorries, Megan Fredrick, Alaina Gardner (daughter of Laureen Fergus Gardner ’88 and sister of Shannon Gardner ’22), Caitlin Gibel, Mary Therese Gibel, Mary Gilbride, Katherine Goodman, Violet Hils, Julia Houghtling (daughter of Marie Roth Houghtling ’87 and sister of Erin Houghtling ’24), Brigid Hyland (sister of Mary Hyland ’17), Nora Kelly (sister of Emma Kelly ’25), Silvia Lanese, Eve Lewis (sister of Olivia Heidorf ’17), Amelia Litten, Ellen Mingus (granddaughter of Coletta Kahl Mulloy ’64 and sister of Erin Mingus ’21), Elizabeth Montag (daughter of Terese Gallagher Montag ’85), Finola O’Linn, Lillian Owens (daughter of Maria Mezera Owens ’86), Madeline Pierce (granddaughter of Shirley Wagner Pierce N’63), Mary Grace Romanchek, Madeline Ruane, Morgan Saunders, Olivia Schaffner, Cailin Shepard, Marilyn Smith (sister of Allison Smith ’22), Emmi Snow, Francesca Sowinski (sister of Gabriella Sowinski ’18 and Victoria Sowinski ’21), Cassidy Stalla (sister of Reagan Stalla ’24), Katherine Starck (sister of Elizabeth Starck ’21), Jaime Stutzman (sister of Jenna Stutzman ’22), Lucy Thomas, Abigail Vasek, Maya Velez, Vivian Watters and Alaina Zagaria (daughter of Nicole Zagaria ’93 and sister of Maiya Zagaria ’23).
At the beginning of each school year, the CORE Ministry Department asks Seniors to reflect on and consider becoming an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion, serving not only during Mass at the Academy, but in their parishes as well. This year, 43 Seniors (about ⅓ of the class) were called to be Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion.
Before the Commissioning Mass, the Seniors took part in a half day retreat to learn more about what it means to be Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion. During the retreat, the students read the Gospel for the upcoming Mass and reflected on what God was saying to them through it. They also shared what the calling meant to them such as the gift of giving the Eucharist to their classmates, their desire to be role models to their classmates and their love for the Eucharist.
“I wanted to become an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion because it would help me to grow my faith as well as connect with the community,” Jaime Stutzman ’26 shared.
Deacon Jeff Stutzman P’22 & ’26, who facilitated the retreat shared, “This is a happy ministry. It is one of joy. You get to share something that changes people’s lives for the better. You are sharing God’s love.” Deacon Stutzman also is the father of Jaime Stutzman ’26 (sister of Jenna Stutzman ’22), one of the 43 Seniors.
I wanted to become an Eucharistic Minister to be of service to our school and my parish and so I could fully give Jesus to others, not simply in my words and actions, but in His physical form.
The Commissioning Mass was very meaningful to me. It was an opportunity to fully participate in the Mass with my fellow peers and to see the school community in gratitude for those of us who became Eucharistic Ministers. I can’t wait to help more in college, especially with the homebound.
“I love the Eucharistic Minister Commissioning Mass,” CORE Ministry Member and Department Chair Ms. Alison Barberic ’01 (daughter of Carol Lusnia Barberic N’70) shared. “Families and friends of the Seniors being commissioned as Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion are invited to attend. The first people the seniors give Communion to are their loved ones. It’s so special to see parents and grandparents receive the Body of Christ from their daughters and granddaughters. I think I cry every year!”
On Wednesday, September 24, the community gathered to witness members of the Class of 2026 being commissioned as Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion. The Mass was extra special for Jaime as her father was able to serve as a Deacon. “Having my dad there for training and at Mass was very special to me because he has always helped me to strengthen my relationship with God,” Jaime shared.
A special thank you to the entire CORE Ministry team, especially Ms. Alison Barberic ’01 and Mr. Joseph Basalla for providing students with this opportunity to share their faith with the community and beyond.
The weekend of October 11-12 was filled with joy, excitement, laughter and memories as over 220 alumnae came home to Saint Joseph Academy for Grand Reunion. Alumnae from all years celebrated the sisterhood and friendship fostered at the Academy. Congratulations to the Class of 1975, who celebrated their 50th reunion!
class of 1980
class of 2005
class of 2015
class of 2000
class of 2010
class of 2020
“It changed my life,” Marianne Booms Szabo ’63 shared as she reflected on receiving a scholarship to attend Saint Joseph Academy.
When it came time for high school, Marianne was between Saint Joseph Academy and Lakewood High School. Her first choice was the Academy, but the cost of tuition was going to prevent her from attending. “I wanted to be a scientist or engineer,” Marianne shared. “I didn’t know anyone personally who was either of those, but science fiction gave me plenty of examples to spark my interest, and NASA had a facility on the west side of Cleveland.”
Marianne came to accept that she was not going to be able to attend the Academy. But everything changed one Sunday after Mass.
“The phone rang while my mother was cooking our mid-Sunday meal. I picked up the phone and a woman announced herself as a nun at SJA. Unbeknownst to me, SJA used state-sponsored exams that ranked graduates by their grade standing to award scholarships. She told me I was going to receive a full 4-year scholarship to SJA. I almost fainted.”
This scholarship transformed Marianne’s life, providing her with the education she needed to attend her first-choice college, Case Institute of Technology (now Case Western Reserve University) where she earned a degree in physics.
Marianne wants other young women to have the same opportunity she had to attend the Academy. When she learned about the ability to support Saint Joseph Academy with her Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) - also known as Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCD) -Marianne reached out to the Academy to create The Marianne Booms Szabo ’63 Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship aims to support students who have a strong interest in pursuing a career in science or engineering. It was initially funded through the allocation of her QCDs to the Academy over a fiveyear period. Marianne continues to use her QCDs to increase the scholarship’s fund and has also included a substantial provision in her estate plan to enhance the scholarship in her will. This will help create more opportunities for young women at the Academy.
To be eligible to make a QCD, an individual must be age 701/2 or older and have the funds distributed directly from their IRA to a qualified 501(c)(3) public charity. The QCD amount can then be excluded from a person’s taxable income. “When I read about QCDs as a way to donate to eligible charities AND get a tax break, I immediately started using them.”
Thank you, Marianne, for your dedication and generosity in helping young women receive an exceptional Saint Joseph Academy education.
The Tax-Free Gift: Qualified Charitable Distributions (also referred to as IRA Charitable Rollovers)
Did you know the gift of a Qualified Charitable Distribution benefits donors 70 ½ and up?
While you must withdraw money from your IRA beginning at age 70 1/2, that does not mean you must pay taxes on it. Rather than take the distribution yourself, you can direct it to a charity. This choice is called an IRA charitable rollover. In 2025, you can direct up to $108,000. Saint Joseph Academy would be most grateful to receive a gift of part or all of your required minimum distribution (RMD). By transferring your required distribution to us, you can lower your taxable income. This qualified charitable distribution (QCD) is made by direct transfer and must be made by December 31 each year.
It is important to consider your tax situation before deciding whether to make a charitable contribution from your IRA. Be sure to share this gift plan with your financial advisor.
Steps to Make a Gift of your RMD:
Contact your IRA administrator and ask them to make a direct transfer of your RMD to Saint Joseph Academy. The administrator will need the following:
Legal Name: St. Joseph Academy
Tax ID: 34-1618516
Mailing Address: 3470 Rocky River Drive, Cleveland OH 44121
Please ask your administrator to be sure to put your name on the memo line so we can acknowledge your generosity. Many popular retirement plan administrators and/or financial services providers assume no obligation to notify a charity of your name or gift designation.
The Saint Joseph Academy Scholarship Granting Organization (SJA SGO) allows you to financially support students by providing tuition assistance and receive a dollar-for-dollar Ohio state tax credit. Contributing to the SJA SGO gives you a voice in where your state tax dollars go while you directly impact the lives of our 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, 2026 in order for you to receive the donation credit on your 2025 Ohio state taxes. Visit www.sja1890.org/sjasgo for more information or follow these three simple steps:
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
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%.
For additional information, contact Vice President of Institutional Advancement Ms. Constance Sipple, CFRE at 216.671.0166 or csipple@sja1890.org.
*Please note, this does not constitute income tax advice. Always consult with your tax professional for information on the impact of any charitable contribution.
In September, Nazareth Academy alumnae gathered for their annual Reunion Luncheon at the Cleveland Yacht Club. Over 100 alumnae attended the reunion. This year, the Class of 1975 celebrated their 50th reunion!
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 113% of goal! The decade most represented was the ‘90s! The winner of the $50 Amazon eGift Card was Megan Hudson Traum ’92.
Thanks to the generous donations to the Academy’s Annual Fund, our students are 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 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, only 2.04% of philanthropic support goes to U.S. organizations dedicated to women and girls.
This data underscores how critical your support of our mission is to our ability to transform the bright minds of young women into the compassionate leaders of tomorrow. We hope you will consider making a year-end gift to the Annual fund by going to www.sja1890.org/donate, use the enclosed envelope or scan the QR code.
Thank you to the golfers, sponsors and Saint Joseph Academy supporters for attending the 31st Annual Golf Classic! This year, we raised more than $32,000 dollars for the Saint Joseph Academy Scholarship Fund. Below is the list of sponsors who helped make the day possible.
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
Bill and Joyce Litzler GP’21
Daniel and Julia Mayer P’21*
Ennis Court
Jaguar Sponsors
Avalon Foodservice, Inc
Purple Sponsors
Sandra Abraham Wasnick ’03*
Paul Linehan P’29
Regency Construction Services, Inc.
Anthony Pietromica P’29
Pamela Supp Pietromica ‘56, GP’29
Mansour Gavin, LPA
M4 Advisory - A Petti Family Business
Beverage Sponsors
Litzler Automation
Personal Leasing Transportation Co.
Lake Point Medical Group, LLC
Hole Sponsors
Ret. Honorable Colleen Conway Cooney
5 Points Coffee & Tea
The McGorray Family
Casey O’Connor, D.D.S Orthodontics
Chambers Funeral Homes
Lakeside Supply Company
Allen Graphics, INC.
Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis’71
McGraw & McGraw Co, LPA
Maloney & Novotny LLC
Margaret T Karl Attorney at Law, LLC
Kathleen Durkin Ferry ’77* and Brian Pyclik
Minute Men OhioComp
Turning Point Wealth - The McKean Family
The challenge returns April 28-30
Class of 2024 Crew Dads
Norris Brothers
Jim Wise Golf Academy
CEK Realty
Charles and Maureen Fallon Adler ’79, P’06, ’08, & ’10
West Park Dental, Dr. Brian Gallagher & Dr. Michael Gallagher
Drs. Chris & Jill Harter and Dr. Mallory Alexander
The Draves Family
Mary Lou Wasmer Durkin ’54, P’77
SP Mount Printing Co
Mike Mural Building Contractors
Personal Leasing Transportation Co.
Saint Ignatius High School
Please remember in your prayers the following deceased alumnae:
Elizabeth “Bette” Roberts Laugel ’40
Louise O’Brien Sandercock ’48
Joanne Hess Schwartz T’49
Mary Stock Clark ’50
Mary Jane Yarano Schiros ’50
Joan Burke Kaelin ’52
Lynne Shields Filipic ’54
Marilyn Pierce Speck ’54
Diane Hopkins Ketterer ’55
Anna Mae Putz Cimperman ’56
Marianne Urban Legeza ’56
Nancy Maher Sponsler ’57
Mary Jo McDonnell Ross ’61
Linda Kolar Tome ’63
Patricia Keane Carter ’64
Marita Harsa-Logue ’64
Louise Boltz ’65
Susan Ptak Dy ’65
Dolores Gurnick Clement ’66
Sue Bock Mendlik ’66
Barbara Snopel Sikula N’66
Noreen McNulty Surtz ’66
Sandra Stremlow ’67
Patrice Corrigan ’69
Marilayne Maco Liba ’69
Helene Kess Testa ’70
Kathy Kerline Amos ’71
Anne Morrow Star N’71
Dorothy “Dee” Orr Zarycki ’71
Nadine Dawe Kepoo ’83
Laura Powell ’90
Eternal rest grant unto them O, Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace.
Catherine Bontempo Roberts ’63 was recognized by Freedmen’s Town Museums Houston of the Rutherford B. H. Yates Museum, Inc. Catherine is a co-founder of the Rutherford B. H. Yates Museum, Inc. The museum, located in Houston at the former home of Rutherford B. H. Yates, Sr. works to preserve the history of African-American printers.
Sr. Shannon Maureen Fox, CSSF, ’94 made her perpetual profession as a Felician Sister on August 11, 2025, at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Convent in Coraopolis, Pennsylvania. Alumnae in attendance included her sister, Michelle Fox-Kester ’98, and Kristin Nolan Cassidy ’94.
Nina Dvorak Lawless ’08, a 2023 25 Under 35 awardee, has welcomed Senior Brianna Kazy ‘25 as an intern at her company, Mugsy Bakes. Through Saint Joseph Academy’s Life Skills program, Brianna is gaining hands-on experience in entrepreneurship while learning from Nina’s example of leadership and service to the dear neighbor.
Alyssa Deis Biggar ’10 launched Lean Living Solutions LLC, a home organizing business that uses lean and continuous improvement methods to help busy individuals and families build simple systems to declutter and organize their spaces.
Natalie Rodriguez Foster ’06 and Randall Foster a daughter, Everly Mary, born October 12, 2025.
Julie Semenec Milavec ’06 and Adam Milavec a daughter, Claire Elizabeth, born October 12, 2024.
Laura McCarty Waryk ’07 and Aaron Waryk a son, Zachary Joseph, born May 1, 2025.
Brianna Dombo Nicholson ’13 married Matthew Nicholson on August 9, 2025 in South Bend, Indiana. Her bridal party included friend and former classmate Nichole Miller ’13.
Madeline Tippie Powers ’13 married Jake Powers on October 12, 2024 in Cleveland. Her bridal party included matron of honor Claire Reddy ’14 and bridesmaids Kerry Reddy ’16, Mary Jo Reddy ’10, Brenna Baughman ’13 and Bridget Kilbane ’13
Katie Basalla Eaton ’14 ran into former classmate Annie Grove ’14 at the Ohio AILA (American Immigration Lawyers Association) Conference in Columbus. The two enjoyed catching up and laughed, making mention that it is always special when SJA connections show up in unexpected places.
Francezka Burns Dober ’19 married John Dober on October 26, 2025 in Cleveland.
Vedaa Chauhan ’25 was named a 2025 Lorraine Dodero STEM Goes Red for Girls Scholarship recipient. Vedaa is studying Neuroscience at the University of Pittsburgh.
Mariel Drost ’23 at Denison University, was the first in program history to win the NCAC Women’s Weight Throw title. She earned the championship with a throw of 13.90 meters (45’ 7.25”) at the NCAC Indoor Track & Field Championships on February 28, 2025. Mariel went on to capture her second NCAC title in the Women’s Hammer Throw at the Outdoor Championships on May 2, 2025, with a distance of 44.84 meters (147’ 1”).
Eleanore Hilow Andreani ’08 and Michael Andreani a daughter, Vera Lynn, born August 10, 2025.
Mary Maline Kraus ’10 and Ryan Kraus a son, William John, born January 13, 2025.
Maggie Berry Redmond ’10 and Sean Remond a son, Gavin Richard, born August 18, 2025.
Emily Joyce Higgins ’11 and Patrick Higgins a son, Henry, born in 2025.
Rachel Caja Tolbert ’11 and Alex Tolbert a son, Bryce, born January 12, 2025.
Veronica Rivard Hauck ’12 and Mike Hauck a daughter, Phoebe Rae, born April 29, 2025.
Rebecca Kostell ’12 and Dylan Kostell a son, Calbe Mitchell, born September 16, 2025.
Rebecca Sedlak-Cotter ’14 and Michael Cotter a daughter, Maxine Ann, born July 15, 2025.
Francezka “Frankie” Burns Dober ’19 and John Dober, a son, Finnley, born August 2, 2025.
Elyssia Mason ’19 a daughter, Everley Elise, born August 15, 2025.
