FALL 2020
Connections
A P U B L I C AT I O N F O R A LU M N A E, PA R E NTS A N D F R I E N D S
SAVE THE (NEW) DATE FOR
THURSDAY, MARCH 4, 2021 Academy Student Center • Live and Silent Auctions
• First-Pick Raffle
• Ned Fasullo and His Fabulous Big Band Orchestra
• Pull-A-Card
• Dream Vacation Raffle
• Food by Local Restaurants
For more information, contact Cydney Morris in the Mission Advancement Office at morrisc@sjabr.org or (225) 388-2270.
IN THIS ISSUE 4
FROM THE PRESIDENT
6
SJA COMMUNITY
13
ALUMS TODAY
19
ALUMNAE NEWS
22
ANNUAL FUND
23
PLANNED GIVING
24
ON CAMPUS
31
TRIBUTE DONATIONS
34
TRANSITIONS
On the Cover:
Sophomores Shobe Manuel and Neely Rispone were among the students who made brown bag lunches for those impacted by Hurricane Laura. The SJA community made more than 8,000 “Sticker sacks” for the residents of southwest Louisiana.
Camille Taylor and Anne Marie Gahagan, class of 2019
Mindy Brodhead Averitt Jennifer Menville Fontaine Erin Barrilleaux Albarado Holly Browning Meg Gerald Katie Jeter Valenciano Cydney Morris Donna Blanc Wendy Coniglio
Connections is published four times per year by the St. Joseph’s Academy Communications and Mission Advancement offices. It is distributed free of charge to alumnae, parents and friends of the Academy. Alumnae news, story ideas, photographs and address changes should be sent to Connections, 3015 Broussard Street, Baton Rouge, LA 70808-1198 or connections@sjabr.org. Call (225) 388-2258. Because of space limitations, we reserve the right to edit submitted news.
Communications Director Digital Marketing & Analytics Director Media Coordinator Graphic Designer Mission Advancement Director Mission Advancement Assistant DirectorAlumnae and Constituent Relations Mission Advancement Assistant Director-Events Mission Advancement Database Manager Mission Advancement Database Assistant
Please note that some of the photographs included in this issue were taken prior to the establishment of social-distancing and face-covering requirements due to COVID-19.
FROM THE PRESIDENT
Develop a Daily Life of Prayer Pope Francis says, “In prayer, God asks that we only keep open a channel of communication with Him to discover ourselves as His beloved children that He loves so much. Prayer is a way to holiness and the light which the Holy Spirit always radiates to us amid darkness.”
What does a life of daily prayer teach us?
Jan Rhorer Breen '69 Developing a daily life of prayer is developing a relationship with God. In this relationship, God reveals to us that we are loved and that He will guide us on the journey He has for us. In daily prayer, we discover the importance of listening to God’s voice and of learning to live in the presence of God. Prayer is the cornerstone of a spiritual life. Prayer impacts us, our lives, our relationships, our work, our health, our decisions and each moment in our lives. When I was a student at St. Joseph’s Academy for 12 years, we began each class with a prayer. Our prayer life was centered in the charism of the Sisters of St. Joseph, and daily prayer became a model and inspiration for a lifetime of prayer. Today, SJA continues prayer at the beginning of each class, and the school’s faith development pillar is centered on our Sisters’ charism and Catholic teachings.
4 | S J A C O N N E C T I O N S From the President
To take a few minutes a day to seek silence and stillness and to listen to God. To live in the presence of God and to embrace life’s graces given to us. To better understand God’s work in our lives. To see the many miracles happening in our lives. To learn who we are, what we are here for and what matters most/least in our lives. To learn to release our fears and failures.
To learn to trust in God. To learn forgiveness – God’s forgiveness of us and our forgiveness of others. To learn to understand other people and to accept and value them. To help us in our darkest moments and to give us courage to know that light comes out of darkness. To ask God for advice, direction, inspiration and guidance for the day, for the moment, for a major decision, for a possible life change.
St. Therese of Lisieux stated beautifully what prayer taught her. “Prayer, for me, is simply a raising of the heart, a simple glance towards Heaven, an expression of love and gratitude in the midst of trial, as well as in times of joy; in a word, it is something noble and supernatural expanding my soul and uniting it to God. Whenever my soul is so dry that I am incapable of a single good thought, I always say an Our Father or a Hail Mary very slowly, and these prayers alone cheer me up and nourish my soul with divine food.”
How do we begin a life of daily prayer
and make prayer a priority in our lives?
Begin by setting aside a time and place each day for prayer. Start with five minutes and work up to 10 to 15 minutes a day. Remember, it is praying every day, not the number of minutes each day, that will change your life. Talk to God and tell Him what you are grateful for. Tell God the times you did not embrace compassion, kindness and patience. Ask for forgiveness. Listen to God in silence. He will hear you and guide you. You may not hear the answer then, but His graces will come to you in His time. Ask God to guide you in your life that day. Pray for others. End with traditional prayers. Many people end with the Our Father.
Turn your day over to God and trust He will guide you. Prayer will then become the foundation of your life and a habit that is a part of each day. As St. Mother Teresa said, “Be faithful to the time spent in prayer, and make sure that at least half of your prayer is spent in silence.”
What are obstacles we experience in daily prayer?
We often become so busy with our schedules that we delay prayer for later in the day; then the day ends without a time of prayer. Try to find a few minutes to pray between schedules. We pray and become distracted about the plans for the day and everything we want to achieve. That is expected. Just keep turning back to prayer, and slowly these distractions will lessen. We find it hard to be honest with ourselves in prayer. Sometimes it hurts to admit our fear and faults. Take time to forgive yourself and others. We are all seeking to become Christ-like in our daily lives, and God will help us on our journey.
The fruits of prayer are abundant. We begin to feel love, gentleness, peacefulness, humbleness, compassion, wisdom and patience in our lives. We learn to listen to God in our hearts, and we discover the many gifts He has for us. We begin seeing how God guides us, teaches us and protects us. We discover that life is full of joy.
A Closing Prayer
by Henri Nouwen “Speak gently in my silence. When the loud outer noises of my surroundings and the loud inner noises of my fear keep pulling me away from you, help me to trust that you are still there even when I am unable to hear you. Give me ears to listen to your small, soft voice saying: ‘Come to me, you who are overburdened, and I will give you rest… for I am gentle and humble of heart.’ Let that loving voice be my guide.” Amen
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SJA COMMUNITY
BACK TO SCHOOL IN A YEAR UNLIKE ANY OTHER When Governor John Bel Edwards announced on August 4 that Louisiana would remain in Phase II of its reopening plan for another 21 days, the leadership at St. Joseph’s Academy revamped its plans for the start of the 20202021 academic year. Student orientation took place as scheduled on August 10 and 11, but sophomores, juniors and seniors were on campus for just an hour. During these abbreviated sessions, students reimaged their computers, took yearbook photos and watched a video explaining new policies and procedures in place because of COVID-19. They gathered in classrooms with no more than 20 classmates and followed face-covering and socialdistancing protocols. Freshmen received back-to-school information during their Computer Orientation courses in July and did not participate in the hour-long sessions. The year began with three first days of school on August 12, 13 and 14, with one-third of the student body on campus each day. Each morning began with a prayer service, presented using Microsoft Teams and broadcast to classroom projectors. Part of each day was used to further train students on COVID protocols, and the 1,125 members of the Academy community followed their schedules to meet their teachers. On August 17, the academic year began in earnest with a hybrid plan of on-campus and online learning. The unique learning structure consisted of Red and White days, with each student on campus two days a week and learning remotely two days a week. Wednesdays were at-home work days for students, who used the time for virtual group work, homework/assignments and meetings with counselors or teachers, who were on campus with specific office hours. Students were also able to access support services, including the Counseling Center, College Advising, Learning Center tutors/resources
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and the Help Desk. In addition to meeting virtually with students, teachers spent Wednesdays learning new software to enhance remote learning and working with co-teachers to create lessons that would promote student engagement, whether students were on campus or learning from home. “By keeping the number of students on campus at one time to half the total student body population, we had the time we needed to ensure students were thoroughly trained on COVID policies and procedures,” Principal Stacia Andricain said. “Limiting the number of students on campus also allowed us to continue our aggressive mitigation efforts, including thorough environmental cleaning throughout the day.” Among the measures implemented were symptom monitoring/reporting each morning, staggered dismissal from class, reporting to first-period classes immediately upon arrival and practicing social distancing in classrooms, during transitions between classes, at lunch and at the end of the day. Hallways and staircases were marked with one-way directional arrows. Staff members worked in the Andrea Clesi McMakin '74 STEM Lab to construct tri-fold acrylic shields for students who needed an extra barrier for medical reasons. Staffers also made dividers for use on desks, such as those in science labs, that seat more than one student. The bell schedule was adjusted to add an additional minute between each class period to provide as much distance as possible between students walking across campus. A robust approach to environmental cleaning meant desktops, doorknobs and other common classroom surfaces and items were disinfected between class periods. Bathrooms were cleaned every two hours, door
handles were wiped throughout the day and all eating surfaces were cleaned between each lunch shift. Hand sanitizer was placed in every classroom, and handwashing stations were positioned around campus. Four fogging/misting machines were purchased for use in the outdoor eating areas between each lunch period and in the classrooms each evening. With the approach of the Labor Day weekend, administrators continued to carefully monitor the health of the school community. After examining the latest recommendations from the CDC and local health officials, Mrs. Andricain announced that the week of September 8-11 would be the last for the hybrid learning model. All students returned to five days a week of on-campus learning on Monday, September 14. To ensure students continued to comply with safety measures, monitors were stationed around campus, and tighter protocols were implemented during lunch hours. Events and gatherings typically held during the fall semester were cancelled, rescheduled to the spring or held virtually. Unable to gather for Mass, SJA celebrated schoolwide Liturgies of the Word with virtual ceremonies originating from the Chapel at SJA. Using the gift of technology, the school community continues to stay connected in live, shared prayer experiences.
social distancing. Parents, family and friends were able to watch a livestream of the ceremonies on SJA’s Facebook page. Unable to welcome parents to campus for the traditional Back-to-School Night gatherings, SJA invited parents to get to know their daughters’ teachers by watching introductory videos recorded by each faculty member and posted on the school’s website. Following Louisiana High School Athletic Association guidelines, the cross country, swimming and volleyball teams began the fall sports season with safety measures in place. Student clubs were able to hold meetings adhering to social-distancing and facecovering protocols. “I commend each and every member of the SJA community,” Mrs. Andricain said. “Our mitigation efforts, the diligence of our faculty and staff, the cooperation of our students and the support of our families are enabling us to navigate these uncharted waters with resolve and deliberation. We are committed to staying safe and healthy while we provide our young women with as normal a high school experience as we can possibly offer.”
SJA seniors received their school rings during the 2020 Ring Ceremony, held September 9 and 10 in the Orchard. The ceremony is typically held in May of students’ junior year to mark the point at which they make the transition to their senior year. With the postponement of last spring’s ceremony, the class of 2021 was divided in half and participated in two outdoor ceremonies to allow for
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President Jan R. Breen ’69 visits with guests following their tour of campus.
Students demonstrated their Science Fair projects on one of the Open House tour stops.
Eighth-grade students and their parents enjoyed campus tours led by Student Ambassadors.
Guests were greeted by the SJA cheerleaders.
SJA HOSTS OPEN HOUSE 2020 St. Joseph’s Academy hosted Open House 2020 on October 29. In order to comply with social-distancing and crowd-size restrictions in place because of COVID-19, this year’s Open House was limited to eighth-grade girls and their parents. Traditionally, Open House is for girls in grades six through eight and their families. On a clear and breezy afternoon and evening, 281 eighthgrade families from 37 different schools toured SJA’s beautiful and historic campus and enjoyed the Academy experience firsthand. Attendees registered for a specific tour time between 3 and 6:30 p.m. Student Ambassadors led the tours, which were limited to two families each. Guests enjoyed student performances and demonstrations showcasing the arts, academics, sports medicine and the Andrea Clesi McMakin ’74 STEM Lab. Visitors saw the volleyball and basketball teams practicing and watched student technicians at work in the student-run Help Desk. SJA cheerleaders and the Red Steppers competition dance team performed.
Visitors were also able to speak with administrators, teachers, counselors and parents. The event was planned and coordinated by the SJA Admissions Team of Meredith Smith and Cori Martone. “It was a wonderful evening and felt amazing to be able to open our campus doors to all the families in attendance,” said Smith, director of admissions. “We loved sharing all the opportunities that St. Joseph’s has to offer, and I am incredibly proud of our ambassadors, faculty and staff.” The Mothers’ Club was in charge of decorations for the evening and also helped greet and direct families. The SJA Dads’ Club provided lunch for Students Ambassadors prior to the start of the event.
ST. JOSEPH’S ACADEMY WINS 225, BATON ROUGE PARENTS MAGAZINE AWARDS St. Joseph’s Academy has been honored by the readers of 225 and Baton Rouge Parents Magazine. SJA was named Best Private School in the 15th annual Best of 225 awards competition. Best Private School is a new category this year. According to the publication, a near-record number of votes were cast for “your picks for the best our city has to offer.” In announcing SJA’s selection as Best Private School, the publication said, “Not only is the campus gorgeous and the school’s history rich, but this all-girls high school also has cutting-edge classroom technology, updated buildings and a 100 percent rate of graduates accepted to four-year colleges and universities.” In Baton Rouge Parents Magazine’s annual Family Favorites contest, SJA was named Favorite Private High School, and Stacia Andricain was voted Favorite Private High School Principal. This is the second year in a row for both honors.
9 | S J A C O N N E C T I O N S SJA Community
More than 125,000 votes were cast in this year’s contest. According to the publication, winners are “incredible professionals and businesses [that] go above and beyond … each day, providing excellent services and care you can count on.” Mrs. Andricain said she is thrilled to be recognized by the readers of both publications. “The past six months have been like no other, so I am honored that our parents and community trust in our school to be the best educational choice for their daughters,” she said. “SJA is a very special place, and my 24 years here have been the most rewarding. Every single day is different, and that is what I love. Seeing our alumnae living wonderful, full lives as mothers, career women and community leaders is the best part of this vocation. “I never wanted to be at just any school,” Mrs. Andricain added. “SJA is more than that for me. The charism of the Sisters is so vital to what is needed in our world today, and I am honored to lead their school.”
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SJA GRADUATES HONORED AS FAMILY FAVORITES
Whitney Williston ’16
Letrece Griffin ’00
Tia Lockett Whittington ’04
Toni Bologna Turnley ’70
Kristin Bassett Chapman ’95
Whitney Williston ’16 Favorite Newborn/Maternity Photographer (finalist) Les Petits Bijoux Photography lpbphotos.com
Toni Bologna Turnley ’70 Favorite Child Care (finalist) Kids Count kidscountinc.com
Whitney majored in business management with a concentration in human resources at LSU. She started her fulltime photography business after graduating in 2020.
Toni graduated from Louisiana State University in 1974 with a degree in early childhood education. She is a member of the National Association for the Education of Young Children and the Louisiana Association affiliate.
Whitney loves to travel. Her best friend is a lab/pit mix named Oliver. She loves sports, movies, napping, playing with Oliver, Sunday lunches with the entire family and Christmas.
She has been in business since 1986 and is now caring for the children of former students.
Letrece Griffin ’00 Favorite Local Author (winner) LetreceG.com
In her spare time, Toni enjoys gardening, reading and spending time with her family, especially her three grandsons.
Letrece graduated from Loyola University New Orleans in 2004 with a degree in mass communications. She earned a master of science degree in entertainment business in 2014 from Full Sail University. She is currently pursuing a doctorate in strategic communication from Regent University.
Kristin Bassett Chapman ’95 Favorite OB/GYN Physician (finalist) Drs. Schwartzenburg, Lafranca, Guidry and Chapman batonrougeobgyn.com
She has published three books: The Write Way: A 21-Day Interactive Journey to Self-Love and Awareness (2017), The G-Code: 15 Keys to Successful Marketing & Branding (2019) and The G-Code Glow-Up: A Marketing & Branding Workbook (2020). Her latest book was recognized as a Marketing & Advertising Finalist for the International Book Awards. In her spare time, Letrece used to enjoy going to concerts and movie theaters. Now, she settles for streaming movies and television shows, reading and spending time with her nieces. Tia Lockett Whittington ’04 Favorite Adult Boutique Store (finalist) H Kyle Boutique shophkyle.com After teaching and operating H Kyle solely as an online boutique, Tia stepped out on faith and opened her first brickand-mortar store in September of 2015. In business for the last five years, Tia has loved every moment of the rollercoaster that comes with being an entrepreneur. Interacting with her loving customers and forming new friendships is often the highlight of her day. Tia is a 2008 graduate of Louisiana State University, where she majored in communication studies. She is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. and the Junior League of Baton Rouge. In her spare time, Tia loves to create content for her lifestyle brand, volunteer, play with her kids (Harper Kyle and Barry III) and find new adventures for date night with her husband, Barry. You can find Tia’s lifestyle blog at TiaWhittington.com. 10 | S J A C O N N E C T I O N S SJA Community
Kristin is a graduate of the College of Charleston, South Carolina, and LSU Health Sciences Center in New Orleans. She completed her residency at The Methodist Hospital in Houston and has been practicing obstetrics and gynecology with Drs. Schwartzenburg, Lafranca, Guidry, Magee and Bourgeois at Woman’s Hospital in Baton Rouge for 10 years. Kristin loves practicing at Woman’s Hospital as the environment fosters a safe, healthy and loving environment for women and infants. Kristin enjoys spending time with her sons, Carter (7) and Gabe (5), and her husband, Stephen Chapman (CHS class of 1994). As a family, they especially enjoy fishing and walking on the beach in Grand Isle. Kristin is passionate about yoga and encourages her patients to discover healthy lifestyles through balancing career with exercise and relaxation. Other winners: Sarah Jeansonne Wampler ’04 Favorite Bridal/Formal Wear (winner) Bustle Bridal Gowns and Accessories bustlebatonrouge.com Deborah Baum Landry ’72 Favorite Bakery (finalist) Baum’s Fine Pastries baumspastries.com Nancy LeBlanc Bondy ’72 Favorite Car Dealership (winner) Price LeBlanc priceleblanctoyota.com Angie De Frances Snow ’90 Favorite Dance Program (finalist) De Frances Academy of Dance defrancesdance.com
STUDENTS PROVIDE 8,000 BROWN BAG LUNCHES TO FEED HURRICANE LAURA VICTIMS 1
Senior Sarah Branstetter, left, and her sister, freshman Virginia Branstetter, pose with some of the Sticker Sacks at the home of Mary Miller. The Miller house was among the holding stations for the lunches prior to their delivery to southwest Louisiana. The Branstetter girls made 100 brown bag lunches for those affected by the storm.
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Junior Nicole Opdyke and her mother, Amy Opdyke, deliver Sticker Sacks for transport to the Lake Charles area.
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Sister Chris Pologa poses with a fraction of the Sticker Sacks that were donated to help the residents of southwestern Louisiana impacted by Hurricane Laura. Sophomore McKenzie Howard, right, and her family took a break from their own cleanup in Lake Charles to serve lunch to the residents of Iowa. Pictured are McKenzie’s mother, Daphane Stevenson, and her grandmother, Ester Stills, who was impacted by Hurricane Laura.
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Mrs. Andricain agreed and asked SJA’s pastoral care minister, Sister Chris Pologa, to serve as the coordinator of the Iowa Sticker Sack effort. Sister Chris challenged the student body to “roll up their sleeves and serve the dear neighbor with loving compassion.”
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Senior Jenny Sims was among the students who drove to southwest Louisiana to deliver the Sticker Sacks. She is pictured here with SJA Operations Director Linda Thompson, who helped transport the donations to the Lake Charles area. The brown bag lunches filled nine vehicles.
As Hurricane Laura ripped through southwest Louisiana in the early morning hours of August 27, Baton Rouge families with relatives from the region nervously awaited word on how much devastation the Category 4 storm would cause. After the storm tracked north, Jeff and Mary Miller and their children, Mary Grace “MG” (St. Joseph’s Academy class of 2016) and Joseph (Catholic High School class of 2014), drove to the Lake Charles area to check on the house of Jeff’s parents. Jeff is a native of Iowa, a small town just to the east of Lake Charles on Interstate 10. The Millers were astounded by the damage they found. A 1985 graduate of St. Joseph’s Academy, Mary Miller (whose maiden name is also Miller) knows firsthand the emphasis her alma mater places on helping those in need. So does her daughter. Surveying the damage, MG said to her mother, “We have to help. We have to feed the people.”
Since the fall of 2013, SJA students, faculty and staff have partnered with St. Vincent de Paul to provide approximately 250 brown bag lunches each Tuesday. Mary Miller reached out to SJA Principal Stacia Andricain to ask if Academy students would be willing to make the aptly named Sticker Sacks for those impacted by the hurricane. Miller and her family were prepared to deliver the lunches the following weekend, along with Muffaletta pasta made by 50 of her friends and Shrimp Creole donated by DeSwine Intervention, a New Orleans-based group of barbeque enthusiasts who cook for those in need.
Sister Chris said she hoped to collect 1,000 Sticker Sacks. But as brown bag lunches began to fill and then overflow from offices and lobbies, it became evident that the Redstickers’ generosity would far exceed expectations. Indeed, more than 8,000 brown bag lunches were donated. “I was overwhelmed, thrilled and humbled by the response of SJA Sticker family,” Sister Chris said. “As waves upon waves of SJA students dropped off the Sticker Sacks, I was watching the parable of the loaves and fish come alive right before my eyes. Truly, the charism of our founders, the Sisters of St. Joseph, and the gospel values of Jesus Christ are alive here at SJA.”
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When Mary Miller learned that 8,000 Sticker Sacks were coming her way, she was moved to tears. “What I felt was utter and complete joy,” she said. “I never expected to receive so many Sticker Sacks, or for a small group of students to travel to Iowa to serve lunches to the community. We had so many Sticker Sacks that we were also able to bless thousands of others: The Cajun Navy, St. Agnes, St. Vincent de Paul, Serenity House Sober Living, several Catholic schools in Lake Charles, the fire department and the veterans’ homeless shelter in Lake Charles.” For freshman Anna Castro, her reason for participating was simple: “I wanted to make Sticker Sacks because I felt horrible for the people who lost everything or had damage,” she said. “I just wanted to help them. I think it’s important to be there for others, especially in tough times.” One of Mary Miller’s classmates, Tracey Means Lemieux ’85, met the group serving hot meals and handing out the bagged lunches. “She took a huge hit as a Lake Charles resident yet found the sanctity to serve others,” Mrs. Miller said. continued
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Sophomore McKenzie Howard was in Lake Charles with her family to help her grandmother, who lives in the area. McKenzie, her mother, Daphane Stevenson, and her grandmother, Ester Stills, joined the group from SJA to help serve lunch. “My grandmother was impacted by Hurricane Laura, and she unselfishly took a break from all the chaos to help me volunteer,” McKenzie said. Mary Miller has five cousins who are current students at SJA. Senior Jenny Sims is among them. Jenny traveled to Iowa with senior Lanie Powell and freshman Sophie Leblanc to deliver Sticker Sacks. “People were crying and just saying, ‘Thank you, thank you, thank you.’ It really humbled us and just made us thankful for everything that we have,” Jenny said. “Seeing what happened in that town made me extremely thankful for SJA and for the people in this community who rally and come together to help others. God really called our community to come together and answer His call.” Senior Jennie Belle Holder is also a cousin of Mary Miller. “In south Louisiana, everyone has experienced how destructive hurricanes can be, so I think it’s very important to help those affected by Laura in every way we can,” she said. “It was amazing to see how everyone at St. Joseph’s came together and made so many Sticker Sacks for those who needed them.” Cousin Grace Anne Crifasi, a junior, helped transport Sticker Sacks between school and the delivery departure points around Baton Rouge. She said sending 8,000 meals to the Lake Charles area was truly a sign of love. “It gave them not only a meal, but a symbol of SJA’s support so that they know they have a community behind them supporting them and praying for them,” she said. “It’s so heartwarming to know we made their day a little brighter as they continue to face challenges rebuilding their communities. At SJA, we are called to serve the dear neighbor, and our school community responded by doing exactly that.”
Members of the SJA volleyball team banded together to make Sticker Sacks for southwest Louisiana. Team captain Simone Moreau, a senior, said it was a labor of love. “When the call came from Sister Chris that our friends in Lake Charles were in need, we rallied to create Sticker Sacks,” she said. “Team members prepared Sticker Sacks out of their home kitchens. We hope they were comforting to those receiving them, and we are praying that their community has a speedy and safe recovery. Co-captain Morgan Perry, a junior, said she and her teammates felt a connection to those being served. “We are so fortunate to have been spared from this hurricane,” she said. “To have the opportunity to give back and be able to just give those affected a meal, smile and maybe some hope is humbling and warms my heart. I think each player who helped out and donated Sticker Sacks can say that this service project made us grateful for our opportunities, and it felt great to give back.” Senior Mallory Matthews made 50 Sticker Sacks. She said that through the simple act of providing a bagged lunch, she hoped to make a small difference for someone who is dealing with devastation. “I want those who received the Sticker Sacks to know that we all care about them at this difficult time,” she said. Junior Sydney DeSoto said her contribution was personal. Friends who live in Lake Charles are living in a hotel in Texas for the foreseeable future as their home was destroyed. “They have six children,” Sydney said. “Knowing the effects of this storm made me want to help in any way possible. When I found out that we made 8,000 Sticker Sacks, I was truly shocked and proud to be a student at a school that could do such wonderful things.”
Buy a Brick this Holiday Season and Leave a Lasting Legacy Your personalized brick can be a part of SJA’s history. All proceeds benefit the future of the Academy. If you are purchasing a brick as a Christmas gift, your order must be received by December 15. Bricks are $100 each. Create and purchase your brick online at www.sjabricks.org, or contact Wendy Coniglio at (225) 388-2336.
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A L U M S T O D AY
ALUMNAE SERVE IN LEADERSHIP ROLES AT CRISTO REY BATON ROUGE In August of 2016, Cristo Rey Baton Rouge Franciscan High School accepted its first ninth-grade class. Four years later, in May of 2020, that class became the first to graduate from the Catholic school, whose mission is to educate young people of limited economic means to become men and women of faith, purpose and service. Students at Cristo Rey schools participate in a work-study program through which they finance the majority of the cost of their education, gain real-world job experience, grow in selfconfidence and realize the relevance of their education. For three St. Joseph’s Academy alumnae in leadership positions at Cristo Rey, the 2020 graduation was especially poignant. The SJA graduates spent their formative high school years learning about the Generous Promises of the Congregation of St. Joseph, including the promise to change societal systems that cause injustice, oppression and poverty. As Cristo Rey celebrated its first graduating class, the Academy alumnae watched its mission come to fruition and relished the belief that inequality can be overcome through equitable opportunities. Claire Losavio Willis ’99 is the principal at Cristo Rey Baton Rouge. Katie Dietz Tasman ’97 is the mission advancement director, and Mary Kathryn Wendt Layne ’04 is the college counselor. “An excellent education that prepares youth for college and career should be a fundamental right, but inequities in our society have hindered this reality,” Mrs. Willis said. “Cristo Rey’s mission is to break down those barriers for students who otherwise may not have access to a private, collegepreparatory high school. And our Catholic identity frames our work serving an under-resourced community in gospel values.” Mrs. Tasman said the Cristo Rey mission is one of hope and equality. “I firmly believe that education is the great equalizer,” she said. “It brings communities together and ensures that economic growth is available for everyone and not just a small handful of people. Cristo Rey commits to providing both an educational learning environment and the opportunity of real-work experience in a corporate setting. All of this is done within the context of our Catholic faith, and we are provided a great lens specifically through Catholic social teaching.”
said. “At Cristo Rey, our hope is in our students who are empowered in their learning to dream big and to truly know, from deep within their very being, that they are a gift to the world.” All three alumnae say their Academy education helped lay the foundation for their ministry. “I have always understood the SJA call to ‘serve our dear neighbor’ and actively sought an education career in schools that served under-resourced populations,” Mrs. Willis said. “I also valued my Catholic education, so working at Cristo Rey has provided me with the perfect melding of my passions.” Mrs. Layne agreed. “My Academy education strengthened my desire to answer the call to serve which ultimately led me to become a counselor,” she said. “Working with students at Cristo Rey Baton Rouge Franciscan High School has allowed me to grow and help our students grow mentally, physically and spiritually.” Mrs. Tasman said the charism of the Sisters helped guide her professionally and personally. Messages including “love the dear neighbor,” “weave one heart,” “be a woman for and with others” and “find what you’re passionate about and what the world needs” are intrinsically woven into her being. “They challenged me then, they stuck with me and they continue to guide my decision making now,” she said. “Over the years, I slowly unwrapped what these words specifically meant for me in my life. While the path was not and is not always clear, I continue to find myself in the mission-driven world of faith-based learning. Until God calls me elsewhere, this is where I will be. I remain grateful every single day for the gift of the Sisters and the beauty and depth of their message. All I had to do was listen.”
The student population at Cristo Rey is 85 percent Black and 15 percent Hispanic, and all students qualify for financial aid, Mrs. Willis said. Providing access to an education with the goal of a college degree is a key strategy for changing the systems that have historically oppressed people of color, she said. “A great deal of research points to the increased earning power of individuals with college degrees, but college acceptance and persistence rates for students of the same demographics are much lower than peers coming from private school backgrounds and higher socio-economic statuses,” she said. Providing educational and workplace opportunities is bolstered by a commitment to addressing racism and injustice. The school recently launched a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Task SJA alumnae in leadership positions Force and is committed to making decisions through the DEI at Cristo Rey include Mary Kathryn lens. Plans are also under way for a prayer vigil for peace to Wendt Layne '04 (top of stairs), Claire allow the community to come together in solidarity against Losavio Willis '99 (center) and Katie racism, injustice and violence in all forms. Dietz Tasman '97 (bottom).
“The task force is working to ensure that the conversation about race and inclusion happens consistently,” Mrs. Tasman
13 | S J A C O N N E C T I O N S Fall 2020
ALUM APPOINTED TO ECONOMIC RECOVERY TASK FORCE Deborah Broussard Randolph, a 1975 graduate of St. Joseph’s Academy and the president and CEO of the Central Louisiana Regional Chamber of Commerce, has been appointed to serve on the Louisiana Economic Recovery Task Force. The task force, comprised of private sector business leaders, is charged with making policy recommendations to the state legislature to re-start the Louisiana economy and to invest in the long-term recovery of households, workers and businesses as the state reopens from the shutdown caused by COVID-19. Deborah was appointed by State Senate President Patrick Cortez and Speaker of the House Clay Schexnayder. After graduating from Texas Woman’s University in Denton, Texas, Deborah began her career in television news. In the early ’90s, her career path took a different turn when she was hired to develop a government relations program for the Christus Health system hospitals. She remained with the organization for 11 years. In 2005, she opened her own government relations consulting firm, which she operated until accepting the position as chamber president in August of 2011. During her tenure with the chamber, membership has increased from 800 members to 1,200, and the organization has been accredited by the U.S. Chamber at the highest level, with 5 Star Distinction. The chamber has enhanced member services and established itself as the leading voice for business and industry in the region. Deborah earned a credential in non-profit management from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Institute for Organization Management. She has served on the U.S. Chamber’s Committee of 100 Chamber Presidents since 2015. She served as the 2018 president of the board of directors of the Louisiana Association of Chambers of Commerce. An active community leader and volunteer, Deborah not only serves on the Louisiana Economic Recovery Task Force but also the Louisiana Military Advisory Council, having been appointed by Governor John Bel Edwards. She serves on the Louisiana Policy Institute for Children, the Rapides Parish Workforce Investment Board, the Louisiana State University of Alexandria Foundation Board of Directors and the Rapides Regional Medical Center Board of Directors. She is a member of Downtown Alexandria Rotary Club and is a Paul Harris Fellow. She is a former chairwoman of the board of Friends of Louisiana Public Broadcasting. In March of 2019, Deborah was named one of Central Louisiana’s Wonder Women by Cenla Focus Magazine. She was honored in 2015 as a Distinguished Woman of the Year at the YWCA’s Decades of Women. She was named Civic Leader of the Year in 2013 by the Knights of Columbus in Central Louisiana. In 2012, Deborah was honored as a Hero of Fort Polk by the commanding general. In 2005, she was named one of 10 Women of Excellence by The Town Talk newspaper. She was also honored that year by the Alexandria Human Relations Commission for helping promote better understanding and quality of life in the community. Deborah and her husband, the late Ned Randolph, former mayor of Alexandria and former state senator and state representative, have three children and five grandchildren.
14 | S J A C O N N E C T I O N S Alums Today
TEAMMATES FOR LIFE When it came time for Sarah Catherine LeBlanc, a 2015 graduate of St. Joseph’s Academy, to plan her June 2020 wedding, she turned to Kate Butler Cook, owner of KBCook Weddings. Kate, a 2001 Academy graduate, is a wedding planner. She also serves as an assistant coach for SJA’s cross country team. She coached Sarah Catherine, who was an All-State runner and four-year varsity letter winner.
runners (Mary LaHaye ’13, sister Kathleen Peek Evans ’11 and Elise Richard Johnson ’13) and were happy to help our former teammate. I am so thankful that Coach Cook reached out to me and that my bridesmaids were able to help. Just like old times, we were able to not only be a team, but an SJA team that always knows there is a way to success.”
Looking at pictures from weddings that Kate had planned, Sarah Catherine was delighted to see a former teammate, Annie Peek France, class of 2013. She was especially delighted to see the dresses worn by Annie’s bridesmaids, which she called the perfect shade of French blue. She decided to order the very same dresses from the shop that Annie had used in Baton Rouge.
Because Annie had more bridesmaids, Sarah Catherine ended up with more dresses than she needed, and her bridesmaids, each of whom graduated from SJA, found a perfect fit. They were Sarah Hebert ’15, sister Anne Elise LeBlanc ’17, Maggie DiLeo ’15 and Letitia Jacques ’15.
When the world was turned upside down by the COVID pandemic, Sarah Catherine received a call from the boutique. Even though her dresses had been ordered months before, the designer was facing production shutdowns and would be unable to fulfill her order in time for her wedding. “I was crushed,” Sarah Catherine said. “We were already so nervous about restrictions and if we were even going to have the wedding. Then to be told that my bridesmaids weren’t going to have a dress one month out from the date was heartbreaking.” Hearing from her distraught client, Kate sprung into action. She called Annie and asked if her bridesmaids still had their dresses. “When I got Coach Cook’s phone call, I knew we had to help,” Annie said. “My wedding was three years prior, and my bridesmaids lived all over the country, so dresses were being shipped from California, Alabama, Texas and Louisiana. Three of my bridesmaids were former SJA cross country
Annie Peek France and her bridesmaids share a light moment at 15 | Swedding. JA CON N E CbyTCollin I O N Richie. S SJA Community her 2017 Photo
“It really touched my heart to see these SJA alums and former cross country teammates take care of each other,” Kate said. “I felt so loved and cared for,” Sarah Catherine said. “These girls were so generous to just give the dresses to me, no strings attached. While most of Annie’s bridesmaids were SJA alumnae, some I had never met. The fact that they just mailed their dresses to me because I was in need and a fellow Sticker was absolutely incredible. “I truly believe that there is a special bond all Redstickers share, whether we know each other or not,” Sarah Catherine added. “I knew Annie, and I knew how generous and loving she was. But I never would have imagined that she would be my teammate again, this time, helping me to overcome the hurdles COVID-19 threw at my wedding.” Sarah Catherine said that without Kate’s intervention, her wedding would not have been as perfect as it was. “She was truly one in a million: a fellow SJA Sticker, cross country coach and now my wedding planner,” Sarah Catherine said. “We were so blessed to have overcome so many hurdles, especially the bridesmaids’ dresses.”
Sarah Catherine LeBlanc Buie poses with her bridesmaids, Sarah Hebert ’15, sister Anne Elise LeBlanc ’17, Maggie DiLeo ’15 and Letitia Jacques ’15, wearing the dresses shared by her former teammate, Annie Peek France. Photo by Renee Lorio ’08.
ALUM APPOINTED TO SUBCOMMITTEE OF PRESIDENT’S COUNCIL OF ADVISORS ON SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY St. Joseph’s Academy graduate Savannah Esteve, a 2016 graduate of St. Joseph’s Academy and a 2020 graduate of Louisiana Tech University, has received a national appointment to the United States President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST). As a member of PCAST’s Students, Post-Doctoral and Early Career Professionals Subcommittee, Savannah provides input for improving science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education. PCAST was created several decades ago and serves to advise the President on science, technology, education and innovation policy. The council also provides the President with scientific and technical information that is needed to inform public policy relating to the economy, national security and other topics. Members include distinguished individuals from sectors outside of the federal government who have diverse perspectives and expertise in STEM. Savannah, who has a degree in biomedical engineering, is a human factors engineer at UserWise Inc., where she focuses on helping medical device manufacturers apply usability engineering to their design processes. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to influence the future of the STEM fields,” Savannah said of her appointment to PCAST. “I am excited to provide my perspective based on my experiences and background to help improve the accessibility and diversity within the STEM fields for future generations.” Savannah said the culture she experienced as a student at SJA played a tremendous role in fueling her passion for science and serving the community. “The environment at SJA encouraged young women to be smart, be involved and speak up,” she said. “The STEM courses, particularly calculus, biology, sports medicine and introduction to engineering, were challenging and engaging, which led me to continue to pursue learning more about the STEM field for my undergraduate studies in biomedical engineering at Louisiana Tech University. SJA undoubtedly instilled in me a passion for working in a STEM field, but it also taught me the importance of recognizing the needs and difficulties of others and using my gifts and opportunities to make
others’ lives easier. I am excited to provide my perspective based on my experiences and background to help improve the accessibility and diversity within the STEM fields for future generations.” Savannah said preparing for and participating in regional and state science fairs as an SJA student were especially impactful. “That was one of the most valuable and influential opportunities I had while at SJA,” she said. “I learned how to identify a problem or a need in the world, develop a testable question, create and execute experiments and present my findings to others. These experiences proved to be valuable skill sets I use every day in my current job and as a foundation for my startup company, Scan2Touch. My 2016 science fair project at SJA inspired me to start a company focused on 3D printing medical scans for special needs, with a particular focus on providing fetal ultrasound models to blind parents.” While at Louisiana Tech, Savannah served as an ambassador for the College of Engineering and Science, where she helped improve recruitment through campus tours and virtual outreach. She was a tutor at the Bulldog Achievement Resource Center, helping her fellow students grasp theories and methodologies in chemistry, mathematics and physics. She was a research assistant, developing a microfluidic-based platform for the detection of methylglyoxal-adducted proteins, verified and validated platform functionality and won statewide oral and poster presentation competitions. Savannah was a Grand Challenge Scholar, a Tau Beta Pi Engineering Honor Society officer, a member of the Alpha Eta Mu Beta Biomedical Engineering Honor Society, philanthropy chair of Kappa Delta Sorority and president of Louisiana Tech’s Engineering and Science Association. In September of 2019, Savannah attended the Global Grand Challenges Student Collaboration Lab and Summit in London, England. She represented Louisiana Tech’s Engineering and Science Association and the Southeast Region as Regional Ambassador for the National Association of Engineering Student Councils.
ALUMNAE DONATE ITEMS TO SJA ARCHIVES
A bound collection of Student Prints from 1969-1970 donated by Ann Arbour Olyniec ’70.
Ann Arbour Olyniec, a 1970 graduate of St. Joseph’s Academy, donated to SJA Archives a bound collection of Student Prints from the 1969-1970 academic year. Ann served as co-editor of the publication that year along with her second cousin, Mary Gay Bahlinger Larrick ’70. Included in the collection is a one-page publication on brightly colored paper entitled Sunkist Prints. Ann and Gay decided to publish the inexpensive edition when they discovered Student Prints owed Ortlieb Press nearly $2,000 in unpaid invoices. “We were alarmed,” Ann said. “We saved a month’s printing bill with the simple Sunkist Prints issue.” But that wasn’t the end of their efforts to repay the debt. The girls hosted an exhibition volleyball match between the faculties of SJA and Catholic High School in the new CHS gymnasium. Admission was charged, and the match, Ann said, was “well attended by enthusiastic student rivals.” And the overdue account at Ortlieb Press was brought up to date.
busy schedule. While typesetting Student Prints, he could read all about the ‘goings on’ at the Nesbit girls’ school. And this kind, keen-eyed gentleman corrected punctuation mistakes!” Four Nesbit sisters graduated from SJA: Julie M. Nesbit ’62, Madeline Nesbit Coco ’63, Rudi Nesbit Lanehart ’68 and Carmelitte Nesbit Venturella ’70, who served as president of Ann and Mary’s class. Ann said she hopes future generations of Redstickers enjoy looking back at their school’s rich history through the eyes of students who preceded them.
“Looking back, I think the Nesbit family, who owned Ortlieb Press, never worried about the debt we had accumulated over the years,” Ann said. “The friendly Ortlieb typesetter probably enjoyed a break from his
2021 SAVE THE DATE
Alumnae Trip
to Italy
JUNE 15-26, 2021
Stops in the Amalfi Coast, Rome and Florence Contact Katie Jeter Valenciano ’04 at valencianok@sjabr.org or (225) 388-2244 for more information. 17 | S J A C O N N E C T I O N S Fall 2020
Barbara Balhoff Bagwell was part of the first St. Joseph’s Academy class to receive laptop computers as SJA moved to integrate technology across the learning community. SJA was among the first high schools in the country to implement a 1:1 laptop program. Barbara, who graduated in 2002, was a freshman in 1998 and still remembers the summer evening prior to the start of the school year when her classmates and their parents came to campus for the first “Out of the Box” night. They received their computers and learned the basics of their use. Barbara recently donated her original Compaq laptop, which she used all four years, as well as the user manual and network card, which was inserted into the computer to connect to the network. Barbara Balhoff Bagwell ’02 donated her Compaq laptop computer that was issued to SJA freshmen in 1998.
After retiring and putting her house on the market, Alice Nelson prepared for her move to St. James Place in Baton Rouge by going through her belongings. She stumbled upon a small book of poems by Sister M. Genevieve Todd of the Sisters of Providence, St. Mary of the Woods. She found an inscription which indicated the book had been given to a Mary Sullivan from Sister Margaret. It was dated June 22, 1898. Alice, whose daughter-in-law, Penny Hoffman Nelson ’78, and granddaughter, Sarah Nelson ’13, graduated from St. Joseph’s Academy, said she has no idea where the book came from. “I found it in a box with family Bibles and books I’ve treasured over the years,” she said. “It’s a mystery, but it’s a lovely little find. I wish I knew more about it.” Alice donated the book to SJA’s Archives. If you know anything about Mary Sullivan or Sister Margaret from 1898, we’d love to hear from you. We ask that you email Archivist Sara Brignac at brignacs@sjabr.org.
18 | S J A C O N N E C T I O N S Alums Today
of ook ll b Alice a sm y to he of ayster ted t ives. n i m na ch rig e o s a o do Ar Th ems i n, wh SJA po elso re to N asu tre
We are grateful to the alumnae and friends who share their treasures and memories with SJA’s Archives. If you have an item or items you’d like to donate, please contact Archivist Sara Brignac at brignacs@sjabr.org or (225) 388-2346.
ALUMNAE NEWS ’89 RÁCHEL ROCHÉ WALTON is an intelligence analyst with the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Her family recently returned from a five-year diplomatic post at the U.S. Embassy in Paris, France. Inspired by her SJA experience, she has volunteered with Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA) for more than 18 years. In January of 2020, she joined GSUSA’s national board of directors. She especially enjoys helping girls (Go-getters, Innovators, Risktakers and Leaders) find their passion and voice to be agents of change and champions for those in need. “My greatest joy is knowing that I contribute to building girls of courage, confidence and character who make the world a better place,” Ráchel said. “Thank you, SJA!”
’98 AMANDA GLASER BRUMFIELD was named the recipient of the Franciscan Service Award for February 2020 by Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady Health System. She is a senior occupational therapist in the inpatient setting at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center. Amanda joined the ministry in July of 2003. She has facilitated prayer services for her graduating patients, integrating faith with their functional improvement and showing patients that their faith can improve their health. She is active in her church and is devoted to being a responsible, hard-working role model for her teenage sons.
’99 ASHLEY ALLEN BAGGETT received tenure and promotion to the rank of associate professor of history at North Dakota State University. In July of 2020, she also held the administrative position of NDSU’s Women and Gender Studies Program Director. Ashley is a member of the Organization of American Historians, North Dakota National History Day Advisory Board, North Dakota Woman’s Suffrage Centennial Committee and the Great Plains Social Studies Council. She has four publications to her credit and is currently writing another book. She has served as an expert consultant for the Who Do You Think You Are? series on TLC. Ashley earned a bachelor of science degree in secondary education, social studies from Louisiana State University in 2003 and a master’s in history from LSU in 2010. In 2014, she earned a Ph.D. in U.S. history with a minor in women and gender studies, also from LSU. Ashley enjoys traveling, hiking and spending time with family.
’01 MEG MERRITT was honored by Mass Transit Magazine with a 40 under 40 designation for 2020. Meg, a principal with Nelson\Nygaard, began her career in transportation as a transit-oriented development planner, then spent time as a management consultant for the U.S. Department of Transportation’s High-Speed Intercity Passenger Rail Program. She also worked for moovel as director of mobility planning. Meg co-founded Nelson\Nygaard’s Emerging Mobility practice but focuses most of her client work on Texas transportation efforts, including Capital Metro’s Project Connect and Dallas high-speed rail station area planning. She is most passionate about implementing dedicated transit lanes in urban areas as a means of leveling the mobility playing field. ’03 MEGAN COYE SOUTHALL has been named assistant principal at Central Middle School in Baton Rouge. She has a bachelor’s degree in English with a concentration in secondary education from Louisiana State University’s GeauxTeach program (2007), became national board certified in 2010 and earned a master’s in educational leadership from the American College of Education in 2018. She taught at Zachary High School from 2007 until 2017, then served as a teacher and instructional specialist at West Feliciana High School for three years. She and her husband serve on the Our Lady of the Lake’s Children’s Health Family Advisory Council, and she is a Eucharistic minister, lector and kindergarten teacher at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Zachary. She has four children, ages 10-2, and started taking piano lessons three years ago. ’06 KATHLEEN BENEDETTO is a Ph.D. candidate at Louisiana State University. She recently published an article detailing the rapid intensification of hurricanes as first author in the academic journal Atmosphere. Her research was recently mentioned in an opinion piece in the New York Times by Dr. Jill C. Trepanier, an associate professor of geography at Louisiana State University. ’08 KATHERINE DYSON KINAMORE and her husband live in Corpus Christi, Texas, where she runs The LAPS Center, her private tutoring and educational consulting business. She is currently a doctoral student at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. She earned a bachelor of science degree in early childhood education from Louisiana State University and a master’s in curriculum and instruction with a focus in math from Texas A&M-Corpus Christi.
’11 BRIANNA GOLDEN graduated from the Southern University Law Center in May of 2020. She was recently promoted at the Louisiana Board of Regents and is now an associate and policy advisor with Legal and External Affairs as well as a program manager for the Louisiana Center Addressing Substance Use in Collegiate Communities. Bri will participate in a two-year federal clerkship in the Southern District of Texas beginning in August of 2021. She will work under the direct supervision of a federal judge. Upon completing her clerkship, Bri hopes to move forward with her plans to become a federal prosecutor within the United States Attorney’s Office. ’11 AMANDA SANCHES earned a doctor of physical therapy degree from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences in December of 2019. She has begun her career as a physical therapist at Woman’s Center for Wellness in Baton Rouge. She will marry Brandon Pittman on December 4, 2020, at St. Joseph Cathedral. Amanda is pictured here with her mother, Amy Zvonek Knight, a 1986 graduate of SJA.
’12 ELISE DORAN EWING graduated from the LSU Health Sciences Center School of Medicine in May of 2020. She received three awards: the Alastair H. Burns Memorial Award for academic excellence in physiology; the LSU Alumni Award for Excellence in Anatomy; and the AMWA Glasgow-Rubin Citation for Academic Achievement, given to women who graduate in the top 10 percent of their medical school class. Elise has moved to Houston to begin her career as an internal medicine resident physician at Houston Methodist. She graduated from Louisiana State University in December of 2015 with a bachelor of science degree in biological sciences and earned a University Medal for a 4.0 GPA. She was a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority. Elise married Hunter Ewing on April 18, 2020. Because of COVID-19, the ceremony took place on a neighbor’s front porch with a front-yard first dance and champagne toast. Just nine people were present: the bride and groom; Elise’s mother Holley McArthur ’83; her sister and maid of honor Camille Doran ’15 and her boyfriend, Dominic Dewey, Catholic High class of 2015; her uncle and officiant Tommy Teepell, Catholic High class of 1969; her aunt and photographer Brenda McArthur Teepell ’70; and Hunter’s parents, Jennings and LeAnn Ewing of Beaumont, Texas. Elise’s grandmother, Gerry Roddy McArthur ’46, was unable to attend because of the pandemic.
’13 PIPER DIDIER earned her juris doctor and diploma in comparative law in May of 2020 from the LSU Paul M. Hebert Law Center. She was recently engaged to David Scotton, the subject of the adoption film I Lived on Parker Avenue. They plan to marry in October of 2021. Piper earned her undergraduate degree in political science and international studies from Louisiana State University. She was a member of Delta Gamma sorority. As a law student, she was a member of the Board of Advocates and Student Bar Association. She served as vice president of her third-year law class. She plans to practice in the New Orleans area. ’13 LINDY SHEA is a second-year student in the MBA Program at Louisiana State University. During the summer of 2020, she worked for Cheniere Energy in Houston, Texas, as a supply chain management intern. She earned her bachelor of science degree in industrial engineering in May 2019 and will graduate with an MBA in May of 2021 with concentrations in data analytics and supply chain. She serves as the secretary and international chair of LSU’s MBA Association and is the co-chair of alumni relations for LSU’s engineering organization, Society of Peer Mentors, for which she served as treasurer during her undergraduate years. She is the recipient of the group’s 2019 Leadership Legacy Award. ’16 HANNAH HONORÉ is an asset/liabilities management specialist at First National Bankers Bank in Baton Rouge. She graduated in December of 2019 with a degree in finance from Louisiana State University. She was a member of the business fraternity Delta Sigma Pi-Beta Zeta chapter, LSU’s Minority Women’s Movement, Risk Management Association and National Association of Black Accountants.
’16 MARIE SCIONEAUX is employed by Abilities Pediatric Therapy Services in Baton Rouge. She graduated in December 2019 from Louisiana State University and has been accepted into the master’s program for communication disorders. She is planning a career as a speech language pathologist.
’17 AINSLEY SONNIER, a senior studying risk management and insurance in The Peter J. Tobin College of Business at St. John’s University, has been selected as a member of the President’s Society for 2020-2021. Founded in 1968, the President’s Society honors those students who combine scholarship, integrity, maturity and a well-rounded personality with university-wide awareness, participation and leadership as demonstrated by their significant contributions to the academic, co-curricular and extracurricular life of St. John’s. Members of the President’s Society are considered to be part of the president’s support staff. The President’s Society is the highest honor society of St. John’s University. Ainsley is in the St. John’s Honors Program and has been on the Dean’s List for the past three years. She is an orientation leader, an admissions student ambassador and a Discover New York peer leader. She is a member of the athletic department event staff and a member of the Vincentian Initiative to Advanced Leadership (VITAL) program. ’18 MARY SCOTT POURCIAU has been elected as a member of Northwestern State University’s 2020 Homecoming Court. She is a junior majoring in dance and has been on the Dean’s or President’s List every semester. Mary Scott is a member of Sigma Sigma Sigma sorority, Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society, Union Program Council, NSU Dance Company, Student Theatre Organization, N-Siders, Dance Organization of Students and the National Organization for Leadership and Success.
’20 KAITLYN DARENSBOURG was awarded the Walter C. Dumas Award for racial harmony at Shiloh Church in Baton Rouge. The scholarship honors high school seniors who are committed to achieving racial harmony and who value diversity. Kaitlyn is a freshman at Louisiana State University majoring in sports administration/sports commerce.
Our Fall 2020 Date has been Postponed due to COVID-19 Our new date is
MAY 1, 2021
Mark your calendars! 10K, 5K and Fun Runs Presented by
Registration now open. Sponsor opportunities still available. www.stickerstampede.org
21 | S J A C O N N E C T I O N S Fall 2020
ANNUAL FUND
NEW SCHOOL YEAR BRINGS LAUNCH OF 2020-2021 ANNUAL FUND The 2020-2021 St. Joseph’s Academy Annual Fund campaign kicked off in September. The variety of people – alumnae, parents, faculty/staff, grandparents and friends – whose paths cross here at SJA help educate the young women of the Academy for a world of opportunities. Outside of tuition, the SJA Annual Fund is the second largest source of revenue for St. Joseph’s Academy. This critical piece of fundraising helps provide funds for our operating budget which, in turn, keeps tuition increases to a minimum. And that allows the Academy to continue living the vision of the Sisters of St. Joseph to make a Catholic education accessible to anyone wishing to have one. You know the childhood adage, “A little bit goes a long way.” This holds true at St. Joseph’s Academy, as well. When you make a gift to SJA, you join almost 2,000 generous donors who value and cherish an Academy education. Gifts – large or small – provide the resources necessary to sustain SJA’s exceptional programming.
22 | S J A C O N N E C T I O N S Alumnae News 22 | S J A C O N N E C T I O N S Annual Fund
Every day at SJA, we are blessed by the generosity of our community. Every day, your gift touches the lives of our students in very tangible ways. In the classroom, in the hallways, on the stage, on the court, in our Chapel and even from afar during the pandemic, these remarkable young women are learning, growing spiritually and contributing to our community, thanks to you. Our rich 152-year history, our current success and the strength of our future depend on your support of the Annual Fund. You can make your donation today by visiting www.sjabr.org or sending a check to the SJA Foundation, 3015 Broussard Street, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70808. Please direct any questions to Mission Advancement Director Meg Gerald at (225) 388-2254 or geraldm@sjabr.org. Your donation makes a difference.
Together, we are SJA.
PLANNED GIVING
CONTRIBUTING TO SJA THROUGH AN IRA DISTRIBUTION CAN SAVE YOU MONEY Are you interested in leaving a legacy or other gift to St. Joseph’s Academy to foster the Catholic education the school provides to its students? One option that can benefit you and SJA is a tax-free distribution to the Academy from your IRA. Donating directly to SJA from your IRA can lower your taxes and reduce your Medicare premiums and Social Security income taxes. As a result of recent changes, the government requires that if you are 72 years old and own a traditional IRA, you must withdraw a certain amount of money from your IRA, known as a required minimum distribution (RMD)1. The distribution is required even if you do not want or need the money. And, the distribution is subject to tax. In addition to the taxes, your Medicare premiums and the income tax on your Social Security benefits could increase. To avoid this problem, you may consider directing your RMD to SJA. Here’s how it works. The RMD you must withdraw from your traditional IRA is donated directly to SJA through a qualified charitable distribution (QCD)2. The QCD can be part or all of your RMD and is excluded from your taxable income. In order to achieve the donation and reap the benefits, a few simple planning rules are needed, including donating directly from your IRA to SJA. For example, if your RMD is approximately $10,000 for the year 2020, you can donate all of the $10,000 to SJA and not pay taxes on the $10,000 that you were required to withdraw. Or, you can direct half, $5,000, to SJA and
keep the other half, $5,000, for yourself. In this case, you would only have to pay taxes on the $5,000 that you kept for yourself. What are the benefits to you? (1) Your RMD is tax-free, (2) Your Medicare premiums can be reduced, (3) Taxes on your Social Security benefits can be reduced, and (4) Your net investment income taxes can be reduced. Directing your required minimum distribution to St. Joseph’s Academy may not only save you money, but it is an easy method to give back to the magnificent institution that has served so many young women and continues to provide the utmost in academic excellence. As always, before you make any decisions, you should consult with your tax advisor. Michelle Lorio St. Martin, St. Joseph’s Academy class of 1983 David G. Koch, Catholic High School class of 1985 Estate Planning Attorneys
The age for RMDs has been changed from 70½ to 72 as a result of the SECURE Act. What hasn’t changed is that you are still allowed to make QCDs from your IRA at age 70½. 2 You may donate up to $100,000 per year directly from your traditional IRA account. 1
LEAVING A LEGACY AT ST. JOSEPH’S ACADEMY I am/We are pleased to inform you that I/we (check all that apply): Have already included St. Joseph’s Academy in my/our estate plans.
Am/are considering a planned gift to St. Joseph’s Academy.
Would like a personal call or visit to discuss a planned gift.
Would like to receive information about how to include SJA in a will.
CONTACT INFORMATION: Name(s): _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ Address: _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ City: ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ State: ______________________________________________________ Zip: _______________________________________________ Phone: ___________________________ Email: _______________________________________________________________________ St. Joseph’s Academy, 3015 Broussard Street, Baton Rouge, LA 70808 23 | S J A C O N N E C T I O N S Fall 2020
ON CAMPUS
ST. JOSEPH’S ACADEMY CONGRATULATES ADVANCED PLACEMENT, NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARS One hundred thirty-one St. Joseph’s Academy graduates and current students have earned AP Scholar Awards for 2020 in recognition of their exceptional achievement on college-level Advanced Placement (AP) Program exams. These outstanding scholars earned credit at Louisiana colleges and universities as well as most four-year schools in the United States.
Emma Allen Class of 2021 AP Scholar Daughter of Jenny and Brad Allen Attended St. George
Annie Blanchard
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Distinction Daughter of Tricia and Mike Blanchard Attends Florida State University
Isabelle Broussard
Class of 2021 AP Scholar with Honor Daughter of Patricia and Gerard Broussard Attended Most Blessed Sacrament
Abby Arledge Class of 2021 AP Scholar Daughter of Amy Arledge and Rusty Arledge Attended Most Blessed Sacrament
Molly Blouin
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Honor Daughter of Peggy and Andy Blouin Attends Louisiana State University
Maddie Broyles
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Honor Daughter of Angela and Joseph Broyles Attends Louisiana State University
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Stephanie Armond
Class of 2020 National AP Scholar AP Scholar with Distinction AP Capstone Diploma Daughter of Sofia and Mark Armond Attends Louisiana State University
Sydney Boneno Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Honor Daughter of Kim and David Boneno Attends George Washington University
Amelia Buffone
Class of 2020 AP Scholar Daughter of Celeste and Paul Buffone Attends Louisiana State University
Of the 363 SJA students who took AP tests in 2020, 318 SJA students (or 88 percent of test takers) scored at least a 3 or higher on one of the AP tests taken this year. Additionally, three St. Joseph’s Academy seniors have been recognized as semifinalists in the 66th annual National Merit Scholarship Program. They will continue in the competition for some 7,600 National Merit Scholarships worth more than $30 million to be offered next spring.
Brette Bankston
Hailey Bennett
Abigail Bordelon
Sarah Branstetter Class of 2021 AP Scholar Daughter of Kelly and Trey Branstetter Attended St. George
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Distinction Daughter of Kathryn and Stephen Brierre Attends Louisiana State University
Morgan Burke
Corinne Carnaggio
Brennan Cascio
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Honor Daughter of Dawn and John Bankston Attends University of South Carolina-Columbia
Class of 2020 AP Scholar AP Capstone Diploma Daughter of Amanda and David Bordelon Attends Louisiana State University
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Honor Daughter of Christie and Tommy Bennett Attends Louisiana State University
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2021 Daughter of Chad Gomez AP Scholar and Guardians Carol and Tom Stanley Daughter of Michaelle Attends Savannah College and Lonnie Carnaggio of Art and Design Attended St. George
Kaelie Bernard
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Honor Daughter of Cassie and Karl Bernard Attends Louisiana State University
Jeanne Brierre
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Distinction Daughter of Allison and Chris Cascio Attends Louisiana State University
Cecilia Castro Class of 2021 AP Scholar with Honor Daughter of Liz and David Castro Attended St. Aloysius
Naomi Cates
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Distinction Daughter of Regina and Tremayne Cates Attends Louisiana State University
Mary Catherine Daniels
Class of 2020 National AP Scholar AP Scholar with Distinction Daughter of Cathy and Mike Daniels Attends Texas A&M University
Flora DeMoss Class of 2020 AP Scholar Daughter of Nicole and Darren DeMoss Attends Louisiana State University
Class of 2021 AP Scholar Daughter of Maria and Monte Danos Attended St. Thomas More
Class of 2021 AP Scholar with Distinction Daughter of Charlotte and Tim Dietrich Attended Our Lady of Mercy
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Distinction Daughter of Catherine and John Durnin Attends Louisiana State University
Class of 2020 AP Scholar Daughter of Amy Cave Attends University of Southern California
Madison Danos
Melanie Dietrich
Emma Durnin
Amelia Cave
Class of 2021 AP Scholar Daughter of Allison and Chris Davis Attended St. Jude
Class of 2021 AP Scholar Daughter of Kristen and Mike Dillman Attended St. Jude
Class of 2021 National Merit Semifinalist Daughter of Wren and Bernie Eagleton Attended St. Aloysius
Class of 2021 AP Scholar Daughter of Julie and Paul Cerise Attended St. Jude
Caroline Davis
Clare Dillman
Anna Camille Eagleton
Peyton Cerise Katherine Counce Class of 2020 AP Scholar Daughter of Leigh and Chris Counce Attends University of South Carolina-Columbia
Caroline Marie Dazzio Class of 2020 AP Scholar Daughter of Alison and Warren Dazzio Attends Louisiana State University
Diana Dinh
Class of 2021 AP Scholar Daughter of KieuHanh Vu and Hoan Dinh Attended Our Lady of Mercy
Class of 2021 AP Scholar with Honor National Merit Semifinalist Daughter of DeAnna and John Eskew Attended Episcopal Middle School
Class of 2021 AP Scholar Daughter of Celeste and Mark Delafield Attended Most Blessed Sacrament
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Honor Daughter of Lynn and Charlie Dirks Attends Louisiana State University
Class of 2020 AP Scholar Daughter of Robin and Buddy Ethridge Attends Louisiana State University
Class of 2021 AP Scholar with Honor Daughter of Mary and Dale Cronin Attended St. George
Anna Delafield
Virginia Rose Dirks
Jillian Eskew Catherine Ethridge
Camille Cronin
Celia Dooley Class of 2021 AP Scholar Daughter of Tisha and Ross Dooley Attended St. Aloysius
Claire Fourroux
Class of 2021 AP Scholar with Honor Daughter of Michelle and Sonny Fourroux Attended St. Aloysius
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Morgan Gallegos
Isabella Gautreaux
Class of 2021 AP Scholar Daughter of Debra Gallegos and Mark Gallegos Attended Our Lady of Mercy
Mary Elizabeth Granier Class of 2021 AP Scholar Daughter of Renee and Nick Granier Attended St. Thomas More
Class of 2021 AP Scholar with Distinction Daughter of Kelly and Chris Gautreaux Attended Our Lady of Mercy
Anna Halphen
Class of 2021 AP Scholar Daughter of Annie Halphen and Brian Halphen Attended St. Aloysius
Mia Germany
Henrietta Gifford
Sarah Gordon
Class of 2021 AP Scholar with Distinction Daughter of Alison and John Gifford Attended Our Lady of Mercy
Riley Golightly
Class of 2021 AP Scholar Daughter of Carolyn and George Golightly Attended The Dunham School
Emily Hampshire
Jenay Hansen
Sarah Hardin
Class of 2021 AP Scholar Daughter of David Hampshire and the late Denise Hampshire Attended St. George
Class of 2020 AP Scholar Daughter of Aimee and Billy Hansen Attends Loyola University New Orleans
Lauren Harmon
Audri Harrison
Alexia Hasenbeck
Aidan Healy
Jennie Holder
Class of 2021 AP Scholar with Honor Daughter of Stacey Germany Attended Our Lady of Mercy
Class of 2021 AP Scholar with Honor Daughter of Nancy and Edward Hardin Attended St. Aloysius
Class of 2020 AP Scholar Daughter of Stephanie and Keith Gordon Attends Louisiana State University
Class of 2021 AP Scholar with Honor Daughter of Crystal and Maurice Harmon Attended St. Aloysius
mary elizabeth gordon
Sarah Harris
Class of 2021 AP Scholar Daughter of Jennifer and Tim Harris Attended St. Thomas More
Ali Hecht
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Distinction AP Capstone Diploma Daughter of Amy Copeland and Gerry Hecht Attends Louisiana State University
Abigail Harrison
Class of 2021 AP Scholar Daughter of Cheri and Jeff Harrison Attended St. Aloysius
Class of 2021 AP Scholar Daughter of Cheri and Jeff Harrison Attended St. Aloysius
Class of 2022 AP Scholar Daughter of Ross and Brittany Hasenbeck and Dianna and Dwight Poirrier Attended St. Theresa of Avila
Madelyn Helm
Madison Henderson
Chloe Hixson
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Distinction AP Capstone Diploma Daughter of Bridget and Eric Helm Attends Louisiana State University
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Class of 2020 AP Scholar Daughter of the late Myra Henderson Attends Howard University
Class of 2020 AP Scholar Daughter of Rebecca Davis and Brent and Michelle Hixson Attends Northwestern State University of Louisiana
Class of 2021 AP Scholar Daughter of Melissa and Emmet Healy Attended St. Aloysius
Class of 2021 AP Scholar Daughter of Leigh and George Holder Attended St. Thomas More
Catherine Hebert
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Distinction Daughter of Stacy and Cliff Hebert Attends Louisiana State University
Macy Howard
Class of 2021 AP Scholar with Honor Daughter of Michelle and Scott White and Chris Howard Attended St. Aloysius
Anna Michael Ieyoub Class of 2021 AP Scholar Daughter of Caprice and Richard Ieyoub Attended St. Jude
Class of 2021 AP Scholar Daughter of Shelton and Ted Jones Attended University Lab School
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Honor Daughter of Meg and Walt Jacobsen Attends Louisiana State University
Mary Kate Lee
Elizabeth Lemann
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Distinction Daughter of Kelly and Lester Lee Attends Louisiana State University
Abby Ligon
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Distinction Daughter of Heidi and Rob Ligon Attends Louisiana State University
Maisie Jones
Adele Jacobsen
Class of 2021 AP Scholar Daughter of Caroline and Ben Lemann Attended St. Aloysius
Peyton Locklar
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Distinction Daughter of Stephanie and Brian Locklar Attends Louisiana State University
Mary Marchand
Class of 2020 National AP Scholar AP Scholar with Distinction AP Capstone Diploma Daughter of Diana and Paul LaFargue and Barry Marchand Attends Louisiana State University
Class of 2021 AP Scholar with Honor Daughter of Kelly and Byron Lewis Attended St. Aloysius
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Distinction Daughter of Honey and Daniel Loup Attends Louisiana State University
Class of 2021 AP Scholar with Distinction Daughter of Leah and Dal Marcotte Attended St. Jude
Class of 2021 AP Scholar Daughter of Catherine and George Kadair Attended Our Lady of Mercy
Sydney Lewis
Bailey Loup
Haley Marcotte
Theresa Kadair
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Honor Daughter of Shannon and Danny Lewy Attends The University of Alabama
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Distinction Daughter of Robert and Rhonda Lynch and Michelle Benoit Attends The University of Alabama
Class of 2021 AP Scholar Daughter of Beth and Mark Marionneaux Attended St. Aloysius
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Distinction Daughter of Anna Kathryne and Brian Kronenberger Attends Elon University
Hailey Lewy
Maggie Lynch
Emily Marionneaux
Sophie Kronenberger
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Distinction Daughter of Gina and David Leyrer Attends Louisiana State University
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Distinction Daughter of Patricia Soto and Darin Mann Attends Louisiana State University
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Honor Daughter of Hona and Zach Martin Attends Louisiana State University
Class of 2021 AP Scholar Daughter of Mary and Brent Lambert Attended St. Theresa of Avila
Anna Leyrer
Nicole Mann
Lily Martin
Amelia Lambert
Maci Mannina
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Distinction Daughter of MeLisa and Brewster Stalter Attends Louisiana State University
Sara Mayeux
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Distinction AP Capstone Diploma Daughter of Jackie and Scott Mayeux Attends College of Saint Benedict (with Saint John’s University)
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Paige Melancon
Class of 2021 AP Scholar Daughter of Monique and Brian Melancon Attended St. Luke’s Episcopal Day School
Isabella Messerli
Class of 2021 AP Scholar with Distinction Daughter of Trista and Alex Messerli Attended St. George
Gabrielle Morris
Simone Muir
Parker Owenby
Sarah Papaneri
Class of 2021 AP Scholar Daughter of April and Herman Morris Attended Baton Rouge Lutheran School
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Honor Daughter of Shea and William Muir Attends Louisiana State University
Jessica Michelet
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Distinction Daughter of Cheryl and Kirk Michelet Attends Louisiana State University
Ellie Nelson
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Honor AP Capstone Diploma Daughter of Rebecca and Dyke Nelson Attends University of California-Los Angeles
Jennifer Pham
Eleana Miller Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Honor Daughter of Natalie and Greg Miller Attends Louisiana State University
Milan Nguyen
Kendall Ourso
Dylan Pinckard
Lydia Poche
Samantha Poché
Kathryn Ritchie
Allee Rogers
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Honor Daughter of Thomas and Britani Pinckard and Brandi and Ben Spalding Attends University of New Orleans
Alessandra Purnell
Christin Ransome
Shreya Reshamwala
Caroline Ritchie
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Charla Olson
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Distinction Daughter of Annette and Jon Olson Attends Nazareth College
Class of 2021 AP Scholar Daughter of Loan Vo and Kelly Pham Attended St. Jean Vianney
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Distinction Daughter of San and Vipul Reshamwala Attends Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Class of 2021 AP Scholar with Honor Daughter of Dana and David Moore Attended St. George
Class of 2021 AP Scholar with Distinction Daughter of Kim and Dan Nguyen Attended St. Jude
Class of 2021 AP Scholar with Honor Daughter of Helen and Tom Papaneri Attended St. Thomas More
Class of 2021 AP Scholar Daughter of Alisa and Dustin Ransome Attended Most Blessed Sacrament
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Distinction Daughter of Ann Marie and John Montanio Attends Louisiana
Abigail Moore
State University
Class of 2021 AP Scholar Daughter of Laryn and Andy Webb and Bill Owenby Attended Our Lady of Mercy
Class of 2021 AP Scholar Daughter of Mayra Purnell and Will Purnell Attended St. Aloysius
Anna Montanio
Class of 2020 AP Scholar Daughter of Jennifer and Curt Ritchie Attends Louisiana State University
Class of 2021 AP Scholar Daughter of Sharon and Tim Poche Attended Our Lady of Mercy
Class of 2021 AP Scholar Daughter of Jennifer and Curt Ritchie Attended St. Aloysius
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Distinction Daughter of Cindy and Trey Ourso Attends Fordham University
Class of 2021 AP Scholar Daughter of Tricia and Jeff Poché Attended St. Aloysius
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Honor Daughter of Kelli Rogers and Wood Rogers Attends Louisiana State University
Kathryn Rothkamm
Class of 2021 AP Scholar Daughter of Kathryn Rothkamm and Lewis Gill and Jamey Rothkamm Attended St. Aloysius
Emma Routier
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Distinction Daughter of Elise and Jeff Routier Attends University of Mississippi
Catherine Smith
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Honor Daughter of Heidi and Brad Smith Attends Louisiana State University
Claire Marie Tate Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Distinction Daughter of Shannon and Kevin Tate Attends Vanderbilt University
Class of 2020 AP Scholar Daughter of Sherry Smith and Brad and Gina Smith Attends Louisiana State University
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Distinction Daughter of Joette and Jim Taylor Attends Baylor University
Class of 2021 AP Scholar with Honor Daughter of Ceci and Eric Waguespack Attended St. Aloysius
Class of 2020 AP Scholar Daughter of Michelle and Richard Roy Attends Rice University
Kaelyn Smith
Jolan Taylor
Cecile Waguespack
Madison Roy
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Distinction Daughter of Dana and David Smith Attends Louisiana State University
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Distinction Daughter of Trinh Nguyen and Nguyen Tran Attends Boston University
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Distinction Daughter of Jennifer and Theo Webre Attends Louisiana State University
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Honor Daughter of Myra and Trae Russell Attends Louisiana State University
Lark Smith
Thuc Nhan Nguyen Tran
Caroline Webre
Kate Russell
Class of 2021 AP Scholar Daughter of Dena Stewart and Chris Stewart Attended St. Thomas More
Class of 2021 AP Scholar with Honor Daughter of Victoria Vu and Daniel Tran Attended St. Thomas More
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Distinction Daughter of Rosalind and Sam Willard Attends The University of Alabama
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Distinction Daughter of Angelle and Bennett Saia Attends Louisiana State University
Haley Stewart
Tiffany Tran
Kendall Willard
Mary Claire Saia
Class of 2021 AP Scholar Daughter of Anna and Jonathan Stuckey Attended St. Aloysius
Class of 2021 AP Scholar National Merit Semifinalist Daughter of Ashley and Brennan Uter Attended University Lab School
Class of 2021 AP Scholar Daughter of Christy and Mike Haik and Michael Wittmann Attended St. Thomas More
Class of 2021 AP Scholar with Honor Daughter of Marci and Kyle Schnebelen Attended St. Luke’s Episcopal Day School
Mary Stuckey
Emily Uter
Bronley Wittmann
Morgan Schnebelen
Emma Vu
Class of 2021 AP Scholar Daughter of Le and Hoa Vu Attended St. Jude
Faith Woods
Class of 2020 AP Scholar with Distinction Daughter of Jewel and Victor Woods Attends Harvard College
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Lauren Larkins receives her ring from Principal Stacia Andricain.
Senior Class President Malorie Nguyen outlined the accomplishments of the class of 2021 during the 2020 Ring Ceremony.
To abide by COVID-19 protocol, the seniors sat six feet apart and wore face coverings during the 2020 Ring Ceremony.
SENIORS RECEIVE SCHOOL RINGS IN UNIQUE CEREMONY St. Joseph’s Academy seniors received their school rings during the 2020 Ring Ceremony, held September 9 and 10 in the Orchard. The ceremony is typically held in May of students’ junior year to commemorate their three years at SJA and mark the point at which they make the transition to their senior year. However, last spring’s ceremony was postponed because of COVID-19.
“Ask those you trust for their advice, and listen in humility,” Olivia said. “We are born into families, sustained by communities, surrounded by friends because we are made for communion and made for relationships. We are made to help each other. So as you navigate new territory, as you become a trailblazer navigating your own life, allow others to help you because they care for you.”
The class of 2021 was divided into two groups and participated in two outdoor ceremonies to allow for social distancing. Parents, family and friends were able to watch a livestream of the ceremonies on SJA’s Facebook page.
President Jan Rhorer Breen challenged the seniors to embrace their leadership role for 2020-2021 and said they would always remember the significance of celebrating this rite of passage during such challenging times. “You and your classmates are resilient and have shown your strength as leaders amidst so much uncertainty,” she said. “You are part of the beautiful tapestry of SJA alumnae all over the world who have upheld our Academy traditions for 152 years. You are women for others as you serve our dear neighbor.”
Principal Stacia Andricain welcomed the seniors and those watching from home. On Wednesday, she introduced guest alumna speaker Cori Martone, a 2010 Academy graduate, and on Thursday, Olivia Gulino, also a member of the class of 2010. Cori graduated from Tulane University with a degree in public health and tropical medicine. She was an indoor volleyball AllAmerican and beach volleyball player who participated in the first NCAA-sanctioned season. After graduation, she began her career in corporate health management with a small firm in Dallas. She then moved back to Louisiana to coach beach volleyball at Tulane. She recently moved home to Baton Rouge and is now working in SJA’s admissions department. “I encourage you to use this last year at SJA to do the hard work, to discover and love at a deeper level, to polish the foundation that SJA has laid out for you,” Cori said. “Once you are scheduled to leave here, remember to take with you a thankful heart, an unshakable version of yourself and a heart full of love for others. May you always remain in the spirit of St. Joseph’s, and may you always remember that you are welcome home.” Olivia graduated from the University of Dallas in philosophy in 2014. She earned a master’s of theological studies degree with a concentration in moral theology from Notre Dame Seminary Graduate School of Theology in 2017. She served the Catholic Diocese of Baton Rouge for two years as the associate director of Youth and Young Adult Ministry before returning to SJA to teach theology. 30 | S J A C O N N E C T I O N S On Campus
Malorie Nguyen, newly elected senior class president, presented the class accomplishments, reflecting on the challenges and successes to date. “As our rings are blessed this afternoon, let us remember that this is the start of a year filled with opportunities,” she said. “When we accept our rings, let us think of the transformation we’ve had from freshman year, and let us embrace the year ahead of us. Let’s build on the foundation we’ve created so far. Let’s cherish these moments, live day by day and truly enjoy every minute we have left at this home away from home. Create memories, get to know all of your classmates and take advantage of all the great opportunities here at SJA.” SJA’s Pastoral Care Minister Sister Chris Pologa (Wednesday) and Sister Joan Laplace (Thursday) blessed the rings. Sarah Weinstein (Wednesday) and Anna Camille Eagleton (Thursday) led the singing of the Alma Mater. Dean of Curriculum and Instruction Aimee Urdiales was the pianist both days. Dean of Women Erika Angarita was the coordinator of the Ring Ceremony.
T R I B U T E D O N AT I O N S The following tribute donations were made between May 23 and September 30, 2020. Please remember in your prayers those who are being honored as well as those who honored them. In Memory of Ms. Ethel Allain Mr. and Mrs. Louis Hightower In Memory of Mr. and Mrs. Jose Alonso Mr. and Mrs. Jose Alonso and family Mr. and Mrs. Paul Bueche and family Mr. and Mrs. Barry Carroll and family Dr. and Mrs. Julius H. Mullins Jr. Mr. Fred Young
In Memory of Ms. Viola A. Blouin 1 anonymous donor
In Memory of Dr. Michael J. Coogan Mrs. Debbie Coogan
In Honor of Ms. Caroline Kirkland Boone ’22 Dr. and Mrs. Ryan T. Boone
In Honor of Ms. Chapman Cooper ’16 Mr. Charles and Dr. Carrie Cooper
In Honor of Ms. Ella Katherine Boone ’23 Dr. and Mrs. Ryan T. Boone In Memory of Mr. James Bouanchaud Re and David DiVincenti In Memory of Mr. Jerry H. Bourg Mrs. Hilda Bourg
In Memory of Ms. Amy Counce ’75 Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Counce In Memory of Mrs. Barbara Carr Crawford ’58 Mr. and Mrs. Jack W. Allen Mr. and Mrs. George W. Alonzo Mr. and Mrs. Larry Champagne Mr. Robert Crawford Mrs. Linda Green Mr. and Mrs. Richard Kruger Mr. and Mrs. James Maguire The Norman Family
In Memory of Sister Jane Louise Arbour, CSJ ’41 Mr. James Gerald Arbour Mr. Peter Wilbert Arbour Mr. Sydney Vincent Arbour III Drs. Gary and Allyson Mayeux Mrs. Julia Maria Arbour McClanahan Mr. Kevin P. McClanahan family Sister Evelyn Mee, CSJ Mrs. Mary Grace Arbour Miller Mr. and Mrs. Peter Olyniec Mrs. Ann Frances Arbour Olyniec Sister Adelaide Williamson, CSJ
In Memory of Ms. Katherine Counce Bowling ’74 Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Counce
In Honor of Mrs. Jan Rhorer Breen ’69 Mr. Robert Levy
In Memory of Mr. John R. Davis Mrs. Jean Boyce LaNasa
In Honor of Ms. Lauren Arceneaux ’19 Mr. Donald Stewart (deceased)
In Honor of Mrs. Patricia Lambert Brignac ’51 Sister Adele E. Lambert, CSJ
In Memory of Mrs. Peggy Herrington Day ’45 Alice Dugas Greer Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey M. Mohr
In Honor of Mrs. Rebecca Stewart Arceneaux ’83 Mr. Donald Stewart (deceased) In Memory of Mr. John B. Atkinson Mr. and Ms. Danny Winchester In Honor of Ms. Ryleigh Averett ’23 Ms. Carol Hardy In Honor of Sister Kathleen Babin, CSJ ’43 Dr. and Mrs. Burke J. Brooks In Memory of Mrs. Bernice Copponex Barry ’42 Mr. and Mrs. Chuck Trask In Memory of Mrs. Angelina Lombardo Barthel ’58 Mr. and Mrs. Darren Esteve In Honor of Mrs. Sybil Bateman Mr. and Mrs. David L. Bateman In Memory of Mr. Aaron P. Belanger Kristen and Paul Belanger In Memory of Miss Audrey M. Blache Mr. Gregory Blache
In Memory of Mr. Donald Bozeman Mr. and Mrs. Michael J. Sticklen In Memory of Sister Carolyn Brady, CSJ ’48 Mr. and Mrs. Ryan Dauzat
In Memory of Mrs. Jerry Rhea Cangelosi ’45 Mr. and Mrs. Judson Sanders Ms. Patricia Swenson In Honor of Ms. Alexandra Canova ’21 Ms. Gail Hargrove In Memory of Ms. Sarah Cecil Ms. Susan W. Muir Ms. Marylou Muir Crume Ms. Natalie Muir Cole Mr. and Mrs. Seth A. Schmeeckle In Honor of Ms. Georgia Chevalier ’21 Dr. and Mrs. William J. Carona In Memory of Mrs. Lucille Church Dr. and Mrs. Larry Meiske In Memory of Ms. Allison Clement ’81 Mr. and Mrs. John A. Clement In Honor of Ms. Emma Coniglio ’23 Mr. and Mrs. Jarrod Coniglio In Honor of Ms. Laura Coniglio ’15 Mr. and Mrs. Jarrod Coniglio
In Memory of Mrs. Lauryn Raymond Daboval ’92 Mr. and Mrs. William K. Gremillion In Memory of Mr. Lionel J. Daniel Mr. and Mrs. Melvin J. Baham Jr.
In Memory of Deceased Classmates ’69 Ann Felice Fourrier In Honor of Ms. Anna Delafield ’20 Mr. and Mrs. Mark B. Delafield In Memory of Dr. Ross J. DeNicola Re and David DiVincenti In Memory of Mr. Phillip Derozan Mrs. Kristin Nevels Clarkson In Memory of Nancy Devillier Lynn and Felix Weill Lyn and Carl Schmulen In Memory of Mrs. Judith Langridge Donaldson ’57 Mr. and Mrs. Yves A. Poret In Memory of Mrs. Frances Salario Doyle ’51 Mrs. Sandra Kelly In Memory of Dr. Kathleen Dunlap ’58 Ms. Lillian T. Dunlap
31 | S J A C O N N E C T I O N S Fall 2020
In Memory of Mrs. Rosa Mansur Dunn ’71 Dr. and Mrs. Samuel Levert Jr.
In Memory of Mr. Robert H. Hall Jeffrey, Colleen and Alexandria Whitten
In Memory of Ms. Molly Langlois Mr. and Mrs. Mackie Langlois
In Honor of Ms. Isabel Duplantis ’21 Mr. and Mrs. Malcolm M. Duplantis Jr.
In Memory of Mrs. Peggy Castagnos Hannaman ’44 Mr. and Mrs. Mike Brouillette
In Honor of Sister Joan Laplace, CSJ Mr. and Mrs. Donald Barron Mr. and Mrs. Ryan Dauzat Ms. Fallon Gerald Mrs. Pat Carville Hoffman Mrs. Mary Dardenne Michel Mr. and Mrs. Rick Capdevielle III Sister Sharon McCauley, CSJ
In Honor of Ms. Anna Camille Eagleton ’21 Mr. and Mrs. Wallace Eversberg In Honor of Mrs. Christine Melancon Earnheart ’05 Mr. Donald Stewart (deceased)
In Memory of Sister Ursula Harelson, CSJ ’45 Mr. and Mrs. Timothy Hughes In Memory of Mr. Gerald Hartman Mrs. Ramona Hartman
In Memory of Mr. James F. Elder Mrs. Mary Doran and Family
In Honor of Ms. Aidan Healy ’21 Mr. and Mrs. Emmet T. Healy Sr.
In Honor of Ms. Savannah Esteve ’16 Mr. and Mrs. Darren Esteve
In Memory of Mr. Jeffery J. Hebert Re and David DiVincenti
In Memory of Mrs. Helen A. Fleniken Pat and Billy Reed
In Memory of Ms. Allison Honeycutt ’12 Mr. and Mrs. D. Blayne Honeycutt
In Memory of Mrs. Jennie Crifasi Fonte ’34 Mr. and Mrs. Kent J. Bordelon
In Memory of Ms. Kirstin Honoré ’18 Ms. Fallon Gerald
In Memory of Mrs. Marion Ledet Fontenot ’47 Mr. Keith Fontenot In Memory of Mrs. Susan Cazedessus Fourrier ’63 Ann Felice Fourrier Mrs. Lorraine Fourrier Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Moffett In Honor of Ms. Holly Franzo ’22 Mr. Robert Buell In Memory of Sister Jean Fryoux, CSJ ’38 Dr. Margaret Bishop Baier In Memory of Mr. Joseph J. Gendusa Re and David DiVincenti In Memory of Mrs. Mary Delle Bogan Gerald ’47 Ms. Fallon Gerald Mr. and Mrs. Todd Gerald In Honor of Mrs. Marian Lombardo Gulino ’64 Mr. and Mrs. Darren Esteve In Memory of Mr. David Hall Mr. Phillippe Carter and Mrs. Constance Hall-Carter In Honor of Mrs. Dorothy L. Hall Mr. Phillippe Carter and Mrs. Constance Hall-Carter
32 | S J A C O N N E C T I O N S Tribute Donations
In Memory of Mrs. Margaret Coerver Jolly ’42 Mr. and Mrs. Jay Jolly In Memory of Mrs. Betty Kleinpeter Kershaw ’48 Mrs. Mary Doran and Family In Memory of Eleanor Dixon Kleinpeter ’54 Mr. and Mrs. Christopher M. Adams Mrs. Lane Roberts In Honor of Ms. Emily Krzystowczyk ’13 Drs. Doug and Niomi Krzystowczyk In Honor of Ms. Madeline Krzystowczyk '23 Drs. Doug and Niomi Krzystowczyk In Honor of Sister Adele E. Lambert, CSJ ’54 Mr. and Mrs. Herbert H. Wathan In Honor of Ms. Emma Grace Lambert ’21 Mr. and Mrs. Lionel Lambert In Memory of Dr. Samuel J. Lambert 1 anonymous In Honor of Ms. Cecile Landry ’21 Mr. and Mrs. Coy Landry In Honor of Ms. Meredith Landry ’18 Dr. and Mrs. William J. Carona
In Honor of Ms. Emma Lauret ’22 Mrs. Charlene Aucoin In Honor of Ms. Ondrea Lavallias Ms. Fallon Gerald In Memory of Mrs. Elaine Dixon LeBlanc ’58 Mr. and Mrs. Christopher M. Adams Dr. Lawrence Kleinpeter Mrs. Lane Roberts Mr. and Mrs. John S. Young In Honor of Ms. Megan LeBlanc ’21 Mr. and Mrs. Chris J. LeBlanc In Memory of Mr. Daniel J. Lorio Mrs. Shirley Lorio In Memory of Mr. Hal B. Macmurdo Peachie and Phil Ragusa In Honor of Ms. Caroline Magee ’16 Mr. and Mrs. David L. Magee Jr. In Honor of Ms. Claudia Magee ’23 Mr. and Mrs. David L. Magee Jr. In Memory of Ms. Marjorie Claire McAnelly ’95 Ms. Amanda Register In Memory of Mrs. Marie Payment McClelland ’60 Mr. and Mrs. Errol Labat In Honor of Mrs. Lena McGee Ms. Fallon Gerald In Honor of Ms. Grace McGibboney ’23 Mr. and Mrs. Donald Fontenot In Honor of Ms. Ashley McGuire ’20 Mr. and Mrs. Thomas McGuire III In Honor of Ms. Donna Stewart Melancon ’81 Mr. Donald Stewart (deceased)
In Memory of Ms. Mary S. Miller Mr. and Mrs. Jules Noel
In Honor of Ms. Lanie Powell ’21 Ms. Elaine Polozola
In Memory of Ms. Jeanne Lambert Millett ’53 Sister Adele E. Lambert, CSJ
In Memory of Mrs. Pamela Noto Prejean ’71 1 anonymous donor
In Memory of Ms. Katherine E. Moore ’08 Mrs. Allison M. Ward In Memory of Ms. Peggy Moran Mr. and Mrs. Michael C. Moran In Honor of Mrs. Sheila Melancon Morris ’01 Mr. Donald Stewart (deceased) In Memory of Ms. Catherine Brown Morrish ’68 Mrs. Ruth Brown In Memory of Ms. Sheila Murphy ’78 Re and David DiVincenti Mr. Paul Bologna and Dr. Bunnie Hill
In Honor of Ms. Christin Ransome ’21 Dr. and Mrs. Charles Irwin In Memory of Mrs. DeeDee Reilly 1 anonymous donor In Honor of Ms. Grace Reynolds ’23 Mrs. Tena Payton McKenzie In Memory of Mrs. Carolyn G. Roussel Mr. and Mrs. John Veron
In Memory of Ms. Sadie O'Connor, 1893 Mr. Keith Fontenot
In Memory of Mrs. Audrey McGuire Ellis Santos ’37 Mr. and Mrs. Randall J. Ellis Jr.
In Memory of Helen and Clifford Ourso Mr. and Mrs. David M. Ourso In Memory of Mrs. Joyce C. Palermo Re and David DiVincenti In Memory of Mrs. Mary Parsons Ms. Anita King In Memory of Mr. Donn Parsons Ms. Anita King In Memory of Sister Johanne Pedersen, CSJ ’46 Mr. and Mrs. Ryan Dauzat Mrs. Neila Eckler Mrs. Pat Carville Hoffman Ms. Charlene Favre Sister Evelyn Mee, CSJ
In Memory of Mr. and Mrs. Ming K. Wong Judge and Mrs. Douglas Gonzales Ms. Gina Leggio Ms. Barbara McManus Mr. and Mrs. Mark D. Mese Mr. and Mrs. Ronnie Mills Mr. Lindsey Tape and Dr. May Tape
In Honor of Ms. Laura Purgerson ’24 Ms. Judy McColgan
In Honor of Ms. Lillian Roussel ’22 Mr. and Mrs. Robert Schonberg
In Memory of Mr. Howard Oubre Dr. and Mrs. Charles Irwin
In Honor of Ms. Elizabeth Waguespack ’22 Dr. and Mrs. Paul Waguespack
In Honor of Ms. Frances Purgerson ’22 Ms. Judy McColgan
In Memory of Mrs. Genevieve Miceli Nealy ’60 Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Trapani
In Memory of Shirley Oliver Jeffrey, Colleen and Alexandria Whitten
In Honor of Mrs. Stephanie Lambert Vicari ’76 Sister Adele E. Lambert, CSJ
In Memory of Mrs. Terresa Serio Mr. and Mrs. Jerome Serio In Memory of Mr. Eric S. Smith Mrs. Carol Smith In Honor of Mrs. Caroline Lieux Sowell ’11 Dr. and Mrs. Theodore R. Lieux In Memory of Mrs. Carolyn Borne Stewart ’55 Mr. Donald Stewart (deceased) In Honor of Ms. Lillian Tierney ’20 1 Anonymous Donor In Memory of Mrs. Genevieve Berryhill Toomer ’51 Mr. and Mrs. Scott Smith In Memory of Miss Sarah Touchstone Mr. and Mrs. Judson Sanders In Memory of Ms. Lynn Trainor Pat and Billy Reed
In Honor of Ms. Isabella Perrault ’22 Dr. and Mrs. Ramon A. Aizpurua
In Memory of Ms. Lillie Tranchina Mr. and Mrs. Paul Tranchina
In Honor of Ellis A. Pierce ’24 Mr. and Mrs. Ellis C. Pierce
In Honor of Ann and Bill Turner 1 Anonymous Donor
33 | S J A C O N N E C T I O N S Fall 2020
TRANSITIONS WEDDINGS ’08 Katherine Dyson to Jacob Kinamore 10/20/2019 ’12 Elise Doran to Hunter Ewing 4/18/2020 ’13 Lindsay Dutreix to Justin Guitreau 6/7/2019 BIRTHS ’94 Brandi Polito Aertker: son, Robert Joseph IV, born 6/22/2020 ’97 Amy Scheurich House: daughter, Lucille Marie, born 8/18/2020 ’02 Noelle Dazzio Medina: son, Henry Thomas, born 7/24/2020 ’02 Leigh Salvant Moss: daughter, Madeleine Manda, born 8/31/2020 ’04 Amanda Babin: daughter, Emma Rose, born 9/9/2020 ’04 Marcelle Navarre Downer: son, Cameron Hayes, born 12/26/19 ’04 Rebecca Nobles Larriviere: daughter, Grace Felicity, born 9/10/2020 ’05 Abby Ruiz Caponegro: son, Arthur Gibbens, born 4/17/2020 ’05 Christine Melancon Earnheart: son, Carter Dale, born 8/16/2020 ’05 Frances Fremin Mascagni: son, Wallace Steele, born 8/5/2020 ’05 Connie Boudreaux Silva: daughter, Anna James, born 7/9/2019 ’06 Christina Gregory Chicola: daughter, Madeline Ann, born 2/18/2020 ’06 Claudia Poché Frantz: daughter, Sadie James, born 2/20/2020 ’07 Jordan Villa Barbay: daughter, Emerson Grace, born 9/26/2020 ’08 Renee Lorio Adkins: daughter, Harper Elaine, born 9/10/2020 ’08 Kayla Langlois Zumo: son, Charles “Charlie” Wendell, born 05/22/2020 ’09 Kat O’Hara Corbin: daughter, Collins Clare, born 6/25/2020 ’10 Katherine Alch Roberts: sons, Henry Caldwell and Thomas Alch, born 4/12/2020 ’16 Hannah Honoré: son, Grayson Shawn Freeman, born 6/23/2019 IN MEMORIAM We make a sincere effort to publish any close alumnae family connections with the names of the deceased. With more than 10,000 alumnae, however, please note that our database does not include all possible SJA relationships. We appreciate receiving this information from family whenever possible. Notices which appear in this issue were received by October 1, 2020.
34 | S J A C O N N E C T I O N S Transitions
Harry Joseph Accardo Great-uncle of Reagan Rispone Waguespack ’08, Rachel Katherine Rispone ’15 and Neely Frances Rispone ’23 Jose M. Alonso Husband of Ileana Alonso (former SJA faculty member; deceased) Father of Ileana Alonso Carroll ’81 Sister Jane Louise Arbour, CSJ ’41 Daughter of Julia Bahlinger Arbour, 1910 (dec.) Great-niece of Josephine Bahlinger, 1877 (dec.) Sister of Gertie Lee Arbour McNeely ’33 (dec.), Katherine Arbour Hannaman ’34 (dec.), Eloise Arbour Selig ’42 (dec.) and Virginia Arbour Tomeny ’47 (dec.) Aunt of Mary Kay Hannaman Burns Collins ’58, Nancy Hannaman Endom ’61, Katherine Arbour LeBlanc ’64, Julia Arbour McClanahan ’67, Mary Grace Arbour Miller ’68, Ann Frances Arbour Olyniec ’70, Jane Selig Andre ’74, Denise Arbour Tebbe ’80, Jeanne Arbour Favrot ’81 and Elizabeth Tomeny Pocorello ’86. Great-aunt of Sara Tomeny Rounds ’99, Natalie Arbour Lively ’98, Lauren Tomeny ’01 and Katherine Tomeny Richardson ’02 Joseph H. Arbour Jr. Father of Patricia Arbour Reily ’72 Elizabeth Nell Dubus Michel Baldridge (former SJA faculty member) Mother of Elizabeth Michel ’74, Pamela Michel Chavez ’77, Marjorie Michel ’78, Aimee Michel Lawson ’80 and DeLauné Michel Fried ’83 (alum by choice) Claire Angelle Booth ’14 (alum by choice) Daughter of Margaret Jumonville Booth ’86 Sister of Kendall Rayne Booth ’12 James Madison Bouanchaud Grandfather of Kyra Hayes Howell ’94 Donald Joseph Bozeman Son of Juanita Mee Bozeman ’55 Brother of Jane Bozeman Matheny ’79, Carol Bozeman Zulla ’81, Jill Bozeman Mercado ’85 and Julie Bozeman Johnson ’91 Grandson of Marguerite Beatty Bozeman ’36 Nephew of Sister Evelyn Mee, CSJ ’53, Marguerite Bozeman Daigle ’58, Juanita Bozeman Lorio ’60, Miriam Bozeman Morgan ’60, Florence Bozeman ’62 and Mary Bozeman Sticklen ’74 Uncle of Emily Theresa Bozeman ’08 and Rachel Renee Bozeman ’10
Sister Leyla Cerda-Sanchez, CSJ Aunt of Rebecca Guidry ’13 and Leila Maria Guidry ’18 Lucille DuBois Church Mother of Suzette DuBois Meiske ’72 Joseph Roy Chustz Jr. Father of Caroline Chustz Ducas ’85 Adèle Pavy Comeaux Grandmother of Kayla Moscona (SJA faculty member) Elaine Gomez Cortelloni ’39 Grandmother of Kacy Lynn Maranto ’10 and Kenna Leigh Maranto ’10 Barbara Anne Carr Crawford ’58 Essie LaFleur Culotta Stepmother of Dyra Culotta Hughes ’66 Grandmother of Anglyn Hughes Brown ’89 Great-grandmother of Madeleine Merzie Brown ’22 Russell John Daigle Father of Tiffany Marie Daigle ’99 John Robert Davis Grandfather of Paige Boyce Gary ’81 and Jennifer Boyce Price ’88 Great-grandfather of Jeanne Bronier Boyce ’16 and Jane Avery Price ’18 Peggy Herrington Day ’45 Mother of Suzanne Day Bassett ’66 Grandmother of Kristin Bassett Chapman ’95, Lindsay LaFleur Coates ’00, Elizabeth LaFleur Cancienne ’02, Amelia Margaret Day ’08 and Chelsea Lynette Hughes ’09 Nancy Ann Gaiennie Rockett Devillier Sister of Gail Gaiennie ’66 Mother of Elizabeth Rockett ’89 Ross Joseph DeNicola Father of Susannah DeNicola Babin ’85 Grandfather of Hannah Grace Babin ’18 Ronald Ruhl Donaldson Husband of Judith Langridge Donaldson ’57 (dec.) Father of Rebecca Donaldson Berger ’80 and Susan Donaldson Jones ’84 Grandfather of Hayley Lynn Kogel ’11 Norma Duell Mother of Paula Duell Northern ’92 and Stephanie Duell ’97 James Elder Jr. Grandfather of Madeline Elizabeth Doran ’22
Glynn Fontenot Father of Liz Fontenot (SJA faculty member)
Howard Oubre Grandfather of Christin Marie Ransome ’21
Marion Ledet Fontenot ’47
Sister Johanne Pedersen, CSJ ’46
Michelle Menton Gauthier Mother of Gigi Gauthier ’86
Sharon Smith Polito Mother of Brandi Polito Aertker ’94 Aunt of Kristen Dellucci Sinanan ’94, Clare Polito Larpenteur ’03 and Clare Polito Larpenteur ’07
Joseph John Gendusa Jr. Grandfather of Andrea Bodin ’12 Karen Jackson Hall ’69 Sister of Kalinin Jackson Messer ’66 Great-aunt of Kaitlyn LeBlanc ’13 and Kylene Marie LeBlanc ’16 Robert Hall Father of Hayley Oliver Hall ’17 Uncle of Amy Thompson Behrnes ’96 and Ashley Thompson Houston ’00 Harrison Hawkins Jr. Father of Lynette Adams (SJA staff member) James B. Higgins (boy of SJA) Brother of Judy Higgins Henderson ’58 Henry Guy Hopkins Jr. Father of Charmaine Hopkins Kleinpeter ’74 and Donna Hopkins Garon ’75 Grandfather of Ashley Maire Hopkins ’10 and Rachel Hopkins ’12 Matthew Vaughn Hopkins Brother of Ashley Maire Hopkins ’10 Nephew of Charmaine Hopkins Kleinpeter ’74 and Donna Hopkins Garon ’75 William Bedford Hurst Uncle of Kim Hurst Martinez ’88 and Jill Hurst Mabile ’91 (dec.) Great-uncle of Madison Hurst Mabile ’21 Hal Bailey Macmurdo Nephew of Sister Alice Marie Macmurdo, CSJ ’39 (dec.) Gertrude Ann Magill Grandmother of Molly Magill ’13 Francisco Mendez Grandfather of Allie Mitchell (SJA faculty member) Clifton Tate Morris Jr. Husband of Eleanor Zeagler Morris ’52 Grandfather of Michelle Morris Larson ’09 Sheila Ann Murphy ’78 Mother of Gabrielle Nicole Murphy ’12 Aunt of Grace Murphy Withers ’09 Shirley Rose Oliver Grandmother of Amy Thompson Behrnes ’96, Ashley Thompson Houston ’00 and Hayley Oliver Hall ’17
Harry Robert RivaultAlma Jr. Mater Lift up your voices to our Alma Mater. Father of Kristi Rivault Allen and Leigh Pledge her your loyalty as long’95 as she may live. Always remember the spirit and the way Rivault Donohue of’96 Sanctity, Joy and Action, Dearest SJA. Allen ’22 Grandfather of Ryleigh Rose High fly her banners toBennett the world proclaiming Brother of Debra Rivault ’73 immortal standards in colors red and white; RedBennett for devotion, white for purity:’99 and Uncle of Lindsey Templet Imparting her wisdom through the years, Lauren Bennett O’Brien This is’02 SJA
ACADEMY
Legacy Legacy Mass mass and
AT Reception SJA
Bobby E. Stanley Father of Dana Stanley Fairchild ’82, Cissy . Stanley Schmidt ’83 and Lauren Stanley Following the singing of the Alma Mater, we invite all two-generation Jung ’87 families to take a group photo on the front steps of Mother Alice Hall. We ask all threefour-generation families to remain seated for a few Grandfather of and Ashley Nadine Fairchild ’11
minutes while the photo is taken. We will then move to the front of Mother Alice Hall for this photo. A reception will follow in Mother Alice Hall.
Donald Ray Stewart Husband of Carolyn Borne Stewart ’55 (dec.) Father of Donna Stewart Melancon ’81 and Rebecca Stewart Arceneaux ’83 Grandfather of Sheila Melancon Morris ’01, Christine Melancon Earnheart ’05 and Lauren Diane Arceneaux ’19 Uncle of Jennifer Holliday Tompkins ’81, Christine Holliday Lanata ’83, Julie Holliday Crifasi ’85, Vicki Thompson ’85 and Ellen Holliday Reid ’91 Great-uncle of Natalie Christine Lanata ’14, Camille Estelle Lanata ’18 and Grace Anne Crifasi ’22 Virginia Noto Terito Grandmother of Kristen Phillips Richard ’09 Lynn Leiser Trainor Grandmother of Sydney Catherine Trainor ’18 Jean Chow Wong Mother of Kim Wong Kwan ’79, May Wong Tape ’84 and Jeannie Wong Joe ’90 Grandmother of Rachael Wong ’04, Stephanie Kayla Wong ’07 and Kimberly Simone Kwan ’10
SUNDAY, AUGUST 19, 2018
S u n d ay, Fe br ua r y 7 , 20 21 M a s s at 9 a .m. Br u n c h im me diat ely f o llowin g R S V P b y Fr id ay, Ja nua r y 2 9, 20 21 to va le n c ia n o k@sj ab r.or g o r ( 2 2 5) 38 8-2 24 4.
Ming Kwong Wong Father of Kim Wong Kwan ’79, May Wong Tape ’84 and Jeannie Wong Joe ’90 Grandfather of Rachael Wong ’04, Stephanie Kayla Wong ’07 and Kimberly Simone Kwan ’10
35 | S J A C O N N E C T I O N S Fall 2020
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