For more information, please visit the website at www.sjasoiree.org or contact Jennifer Knight at (225) 388-2270 or knightj@sjabr.org.
and
On the Cover:
The 295 members of the St. Josephβs Academy class of 2025 graduated on May 18.
Connections is published three times per year by the St. Josephβs 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.
Mindy Brodhead Averitt
Communications Director
Holly Browning Graphic Designer
Madeline Ortego β18
Communications Assistant
Meg Gerald
Mission Advancement Director
Alli Bourgeois β14
Mission Advancement Assistant Director-Alumnae and Constituent Relations
Jennifer Knight
Mission Advancement Assistant Director-Events
Donna Blanc
Mission Advancement Database Manager
Wendy Coniglio
Mission Advancement Database Assistant
Jan Rhorer Breen '69
A New Season Begins
Editorβs note: This is the address delivered by Jan Rhorer Breen β69 during the commencement exercises for the St. Josephβs Academy class of 2025.
Class of 2025, today begins a new season, the beginning of an exciting new world for you. Be open to this newness of life. Have a heart for change, a soul that craves justice and joy with a passion and a mind that listens to your heart.
Your life is a series of experiences, all of them important, for they help you to come to know yourselves. It is a journey of small steps, but with each step, something new will happen that will help you on your journey.
Ecclesiastes talks about how life is planting and sowing the seeds that will make a better world possible in the future, even if we are not here to see the seeds blossom. Class of 2025, you are called to plant seeds, to sow and nurture your world, for you have become responsible and unifying members of the world community. What you sow will help others, for you are women for others.
Each of you is unique with special gifts. Your journey is unique to you, so avoid comparing it to others. God has a special plan for each of you. Walk that path and know if you take a detour, and we all do at times, that God will help you return to your path. Always ask Him to guide you.
Hold on to your unique gifts, but remember the unifying love that was part of your experience here at SJA. We are all one, gifted and transformed in the spirit.
βFOR WE ARE ALL
SJA SISTERS.β
As you begin your next season, I want you to remember that you are SJA women. You hold a rare combination of personal characteristics, intellectual commitment and a vision that comes from Godβs presence in your life. You have a desire to serve the dear neighbor and to make meaningful contributions to the world. You embody sanctity, joy and action. Believe in yourself, and become the woman God intends you to be.
Always remember that your family, your friends and your faculty and staff have been a strong force in your life, and that events in your life have brought you to where you are today. Keep them in your heart as you create new relationships.
Remember to listen to your inner voice. God is always speaking to you. You have one of the greatest challenges with the noise of social media and the plugged-in world in which we live. And the noise will become even louder as your journey continues. I urge you to lower your volume so you can listen to God. He is with you in every step you take.
Be a woman who loves, who is generous to others, who serves with a heart of compassion and who uses her talents to help others. Take risks and become the best version of yourself.
Learn to laugh and play. Laughter liberates and laughter uplifts. When laughter comes into life, nothing is impossible, nothing is too difficult and nothing can defeat us. Laughter becomes grace.
Carefully consider each choice you make. You will be faced with many choices every day. Pause and ask yourself if the choice brings value to your life, lifts up your voice and unique gifts and brings you closer to God.
Maxim 88 of the Sisters of St. Joseph states, βThe moments of your life are precious. Make the most of each one.β Pause each day to remember that each moment is a gift from God. You cannot change one moment of the past, but the future is filled with moments of great possibilities.
Now is your time to gain, your time to make a difference, your time to develop the best in yourselves so you can make the best possible world for everyone else, as well. Now is your time to plant the seeds to make a better world.
As you cross the stage shortly to receive your diploma, know that you have a strong faith in the charism of the Sisters of St. Joseph, you are prepared with the academic skills for the future and you are self-confident, empowered women who know how to lift up your voices.
Trust in Godβs love for you and our love for you. For we are all SJA sisters.
Not pictured is Erika Hirschey Gragg β91, graduateβs aunt.
Melissa Morrison Gaffney β06, graduateβs aunt; Kaitlyn Elizabeth Bajon β25; and Laurie Scallan Morrison β75, graduateβs grandmother. Laurie is celebrating her 50th class reunion this year. Kaitlyn wears her grandmotherβs class ring.
Zito
Marie Lanza β25 and Allison Foy β97, graduateβs mother.
Emily Hightower Beach β94, graduateβs mother, and Mary Ellis Beach β25.
Shannon Douget Feet β96, graduateβs mother; Jyllian Feet β25; and Kaye Kleinpeter Brignac β67, graduateβs grandmother. Jyllian is holding a picture of Hazel Harelson Kleinpeter β35, her great-grandmother.
The St. Josephβs Academy class of 2025 graduated on May 18, and 47 members of the class celebrated their familiesβ generational histories with the school. On the following pages are pictures of our newest alumnae and the members of their families who also call SJA their alma mater.
Ferguson Traylor β00, graduateβs mother, and Sadie Traylor β25.
(Clockwise from bottom center) Margaret Johnson β25; Amy Verrett Johnson β90, graduateβs mother; Nancy Levert Marchand β67, graduateβs greataunt; Susanne Johnson Inman β97, graduateβs aunt; and Claire Johnson β21, graduateβs sister.
Michelle Avant Heine β76, graduateβs aunt; Anna Heine Ginn β17, graduateβs sister; Ava Lanehart Heine β25; and Ann Lightfoot Heine β89, graduateβs mother.
Melissa Morgan Ritter β93, graduateβs mother; Emmaline Elizabeth Ritter β25; and Margaret Stuart Ritter β23, graduateβs sister.
Not pictured are Sister Adelaide Williamson β59, graduateβs cousin; Annabelle Mai Sutton β25, graduateβs cousin; Mary Morgan Sutton β19, graduateβs cousin; and Linsey Morgan Sonnier β96, graduateβs aunt.
Louisa Jane deBlieux β26, graduateβs sister; Anna Camille Ava deBlieux β25; and Stacie Lambert deBlieux β97, graduateβs mother.
Hollis Anne Spring β25 and Kelli Naquin Spring β89, graduateβs mother.
Jennifer Aguillard Parker β94, graduateβs mother; Anna Kathryn Parker β25; and Ellen Lee Chenevert β71, graduateβs grandmother.
Not pictured are the late Esther Ann McHardy Chenevert β45, graduateβs greatgrandmother; Marie Denise Chenevert Phillips β75, graduateβs great-aunt; Lindie Aguillard Stevens β78, graduateβs great-aunt; Jamie Black Hernandez β97, graduateβs aunt; Kelli Black Ferachi β00, graduateβs aunt; Sommer Paige Sellars β14, graduateβs cousin; Louis McHardy (Boy of SJA, kindergarten), graduateβs great granduncle; and the late Margaret McHardy Poole β55, graduateβs great grand-aunt.
Madison Layne Brown β25 and Layne Allemond Brown β96, graduateβs mother. Not pictured are Emma Courtney Allemond β18, graduateβs cousin; and Amelia Cate Allemond β24, graduateβs cousin.
Lily Anne Guillot β28, graduateβs cousin; Elizabeth Mae Guillot β25; Avery Jolie Guillot β23, graduateβs sister; and Elizabeth Katherine Blouin Guillot β96, graduateβs mother.
Legacy families who are not pictured in this issue include the following:
Grace Elizabeth Alford β25 and Catherine Long Alford β01, graduateβs mother.
Kate Elizabeth Arbour β25; Lauren Bahlinger Arbour β95, graduateβs mother; Payton Marie Arbour β23, graduateβs sister; Jill Bahlinger Cook β86, graduateβs aunt; Olivia Christine Cook β21, graduateβs cousin; and Jordan Elizabeth Cook β17, graduateβs cousin.
Isabelle Marie Broome β25; Rocky Losavio Broome β70, graduateβs grandmother; Ava Katherine Broome β27, graduateβs sister; and Hannah Catherine Broome 2022, graduateβs cousin.
Eleanor Lousie Burr β25; Genevieve Prosser β97, graduateβs mother; Anne Margaret Burr β26, graduateβs sister; Mary Prosser Bogh β01, graduateβs aunt; and Pete Prosser (Boy of SJA), graduateβs grandfather.
Ava Kate Casadaban β25; Holly Melancon Casadaban β92, graduateβs mother; Alyse Claire Casadaban β20, graduateβs sister.
Charlotte Eliza Davis β25; Sally Graves Davis β94, graduateβs mother; Sally Barfield Graves β50, graduateβs grandmother; Whitney Ourso Graves β95, graduateβs aunt; Mary Glenn Graves Etue β83, graduateβs aunt; Ainsley Helen Graves β25, graduateβs cousin; Marley Jane Graves β23, graduateβs cousin; Ramsey Katherine Graves β27, graduateβs cousin; Ashley Graves β20, graduateβs cousin; Katelyn Joy Graves β20, graduateβs cousin; and Maddie Emily Etue β20, graduateβs cousin.
Sadie Ryan Everett β25 and Shannan Campanile Everett β89, graduateβs mother.
Mignon Elise Prochaska β25; Brooke Ragusa Ydarraga β14, graduateβs sister; Maria Prochaska Boudreaux β84, graduateβs aunt; Kathleen Guedry β87, graduateβs aunt; Sydney Ellen Prochaska β15, graduateβs cousin; and Meredith Prochaska Contreras β12, graduateβs cousin.
Jessica Leigh Ross β25 and Linda Cottton Autin β68, graduateβs grandmother.
Annabelle Mai Sutton β25; Linsey Morgan Sonnier β96, graduateβs mother; Mary Morgan Sutton β19, graduateβs sister; the late Freida Mansur Sutton β64, graduateβs grandmother; Melissa Morgan Ritter β93, graduateβs aunt; Emmaline Elizabeth Ritter β25, graduateβs cousin; and Molly Stuart Ritter β23, graduateβs cousin.
Kate Elizabeth Waguespack β25; Amy Zeno Waguespack β89, graduateβs mother; Missy Zeno β86, graduateβs aunt; and Caroline Pierson Tullier β24, graduateβs cousin.
St. Josephβs Academy students and their fathers gathered on campus on March 30 for the annual Father-Daughter Day, hosted by the SJA Dadsβ Club. This yearβs theme was Youβre My Lucky Charm. Freshman Emerson Cramer created the winning t-shirt design.
The day began with a prayer service in the Academy Student Center led by Dadsβ Club President Ron McDaniel, father of Samee β25 and Sydnee β21. Jade Spears, SJAβs mission integration director, presented St. Joseph medals to the members of the senior class.
Chris Stelly, executive group director of Louisiana Economic Developmentβs entertainment office, was the guest speaker. He addressed jobs for graduates in Louisiana. He is the father of juniors Izzy and Sophie.
Following the prayer service, fathers and daughters enjoyed pulled pork sandwiches, coleslaw and house-made chips with a shaker station prepared by SAGE Dining Services. Drinks were provided by Baton Rouge Coca-Cola Bottling.
After lunch, dads and daughters teamed up for fun and games, including basketball, human foosball, checkers, UNO, Jenga, volleyball, bowling, cornhole, Connect 4, ping pong, horseshoes, ladder toss, ring toss and inflatable races.
Meg Gerald is the moderator of the SJA Dadsβ Club. She said Father-Daughter Day is her favorite Dadsβ Club event of the year. βThe day is a celebration of love, trust and the unspoken bond that grows stronger with each shared moment between dads and their daughters,β Gerald said. βSunday was filled with laughter, free-flowing conversations and lifetime memories created. A lot of fun was had between competition, lunch and fellowship among Redstickers and their dads. The day was not so much about the activities but the connection and love shared in those precious moments.β
Father-Daughter Day was planned by the Dadsβ Club ex ecutive board: Ron McDaniel, Hudson Lemoine, Lawrence Alwood, Tuan Pham, James Mack and Trey Bargas.
Nearly 600 SJA parents, alumnae, faculty/staff and friends gathered on campus for last yearβs fabulous event, which raised a record $160,000 for campus-wide enhancements to benefit the young women of SJA. The planning committee is hard at work to make this yearβs celebration even bigger and better.
For more information about joining the planning committee, volunteering, being a sponsor or making a donation, please contact Assistant Director of Advancement-Events Jennifer Knight at knightj@sjabr.org or (225) 388-2270.
We invite you to visit our website, www.sjasoiree.org, to purchase your tickets today. And donβt forget to check back often to view live and silent auction items.
We canβt wait to welcome you to SJAβs premiere fundraising event.
SJA WELCOMES NEWEST MEMBERS TO Athletic Hall of Fame
The St. Josephβs Academy Athletic Hall of Fame welcomed its 2025 inductees during a special evening celebration on March 13 in the Academy Student Center. Dr. Rachel Fenner Zuzul β14 (soccer), Ashley Duhon Deal β88 (volleyball) and Laura Hallin Mumber β86 were honored.
Athletic Director Erin Hart welcomed the crowd, and Holly Randow, a 2016 Athletic Hall of Fame inductee, offered the blessing.
Nan Murtagh, a member of the SJA faculty and staff for 41 years and a 2018 Hall of Fame inductee, served as the eveningβs mistress of ceremonies.
The three inductees were introduced by tribute videos produced by Erin Barrilleaux Albarado β07 and Communications Director Mindy Brodhead Averitt. President Jan Rhorer Breen β69 and Principal Stacia Andricain presented each honoree with a replica of the SJA Hall of Fame logo carved from wood used to build the original SJA gymnasium floor.
Current members of the Athletic Hall of Fame in attendance posed with the new inductees. Pictured left to right are Mike Lamana, Liz Fontenot, Kathy Saichuk, Pete Boudreaux, Wren Eversberg Eagleton β89, Dr. Julie Neumann β03, Laura Hallin Mumber β86, Ashley Duhon Deal β88, Dr. Rachel Fenner Zuzul β14, Barbara McManus β66, Nan Murtagh, Dr. Mallory Hitt Allen β06, Lori Nero β98, Holly Randow and Kobi LeBlanc Chenevert β93.
Dr. Julie Neumann β03, a member of the 2019 Hall of Fame class, offered the closing prayer.
The Hall of Fame planning committee was co-chaired by Averitt and Mission Advancement Director Meg Gerald. Joining them on the committee were Hart, Murtagh, Assistant Athletic Director Dorinda Beaumont, Assistant Director of Advancement - Events Jennifer Knight and Alumnae Director Alli Bourgeois β14.
SAGE Dining Services prepared the meal. Sponsors for the evening were Baker Printing, Baton Rouge Coca-Cola and βThe Originalβ Heromanβs Florist.
The newest members of the St. Josephβs Academy Athletic Hall of Fame are pictured with Principal Stacia Andricain (left) and President Jan Rhorer Breen β69 (right). They are Laura Hallin Mumber β86, Ashley Duhon Deal β88 and Rachel Fenner Zuzul β14.
The 11th SJA Tennis Classic was one for the record books. Held March 21-23 at Bocage Racquet Club, this yearβs event drew the largest field in tournament history, with nearly 460 players, and raised almost $40,000, another record, to benefit the SJA Tennis Classic Scholarship, which offers need-based tuition assistance to deserving students and their families.
The event was hosted by the Academyβs Alumnae Association. Alumnae Director Alli Bourgeois β14 and Bocage head tennis pro Roger Pastore served as co-directors. Lucille Bourgeois and Ashley Reed Ledet β88 served as tournament co-chairs.
Presenting sponsor for this yearβs tournament was Wanderlust by Abby. Signage sponsor was Balhoff Graphics. Shirt sponsor was First Horizon Bank. Bar sponsor was BRDP - Baton Rouge Digital Products. Hydration Drink Sponsor was A-Game Premium Hydration Beverage, and Physical Therapy Sponsor was Moreau Physical Therapy.
Gold sponsors were Avant Tous Beauty and Medical Spa; Dudley DeBosier Injury Lawyers; F45 City Square; GO Eat Concepts; Guillot Farms Inc.; Koch | St. Martin, LLC; and Sasser Direct Primary Care.
Red sponsors were AGL Machine Works; Aunt Tockyβs Cajun Prairie Seasoning; Brown Rogers Physical Therapy; Campesi Design, LLC; Dr. Kate Chiasson - Ford Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery; GAGE; The Gardiner Family; GBRCTA - Greater Baton Rouge Community Tennis Association; INVESTAR Bank; Oak Capital Private Wealth; Richards Honda; SIGMA Engineers and Constructors; Simmons Asset Management; Simpson Sports Engineering; SJA Dadsβ Club; Stephanie Chenevert Loan Officer - Synergy One Lending; Velocity Partners Group; Wardlaw Lasseigne & LeBouef; Westmoreland Asset Management of Raymond James; and WORKBOX, LLC.
White sponsors were FB Title Solutions; Ideal Vision Care; Louisiana National Bank; Maria and Brad Mathews Family; Red Stick Refinement Modern Etiquette; and SEMS INC.
Court sponsors were In Memory of Tal Bourgeois Broyles β63; Celebrity Theatres; Horace Wilkinson State Farm Insurance; Mckenzie Rush Aesthetic Injector; Day Law Group; Stephanie Chenevert Loan Officer - Synergy One Lending; USTA LOUISIANA; Keith and Wendy Richardson; In Memory of Sybil Rhodes; Bustle Bridal and HerringStones.
In-Kind sponsors were Capitol City Produce; Mockler Beverage Company; Babolat; New York Bagel; Chick-fil-A; Coca-Cola; and Lamar Advertising Company.
Thanks to the planning committee for their tireless efforts to make this yearβs event such a success. Joining Lucille Bourgeois and Ashley Reed Ledet β88 were Kimberly Kwan β10, Kim Wong Kwan β79, Brian Balhoff, Megan Bello Balhoff β01, Laurie OβNeill Linehan β89, Lisa Westmoreland Collier β81, Ginger Yoder Dodd β88, Courtney Rhodes McGraw β89 and Shawna Gardiner.
Inaugural Mahjong Madness Event a success
The inaugural St. Josephβs Academy Mahjong Madness was an overwhelming success. The event sold out, with 104 competitors gathering in the Academy Student Center on April 9 for an evening of open play and fun.
The event raised more than $7,000. All proceeds will go to the newly created Mahjong Madness Scholarship, which offers need-based tuition assistance to deserving students and their families.
Participants enjoyed door prizes, as well as raffle drawings. Anna Stolzenthaler won a Mahjong Night at NK Boutique, Kathy DβAngelo won a Queen of Sparkles Mahjong top and Lydia Acosta won a Mahjong set.
Save the Dates for our next Mahjong Madness Events: September 10 and December 2, 2025. Details to come!
Our thanks to the Mahjong Madness planning committee for their hard work in making the first event so much fun. Committee members were Alli Bourgeois β14, Layne Salvant β06, Andrea Clesi McMakin β74, Caroline Bondy Taylor β16, Rose Marie DeJohn Fife β72, Gabriella St. Amant and Jennifer Knight.
Ron McDaniel HONORED AS SJAβS MOTHER SETON AWARD RECIPIENT
Ron McDaniel, who has served as president of the St. Josephβs Academy Dadsβ Club for the past six years, was among the outstanding volunteers honored as a recipient of the Mother Seton Award during the Diocesan Home & School Association Luncheon on April 10 at Drusilla Seafood Restaurant.
The Mother Seton Award honors parent volunteers from each diocesan school for their volunteer service and dedication to home, school and church. Honorees espouse gospel values and emulate the qualities of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, the first native-born citizen of the United States to be canonized by the Roman Catholic Church.
Pictured with Ron McDaniel, second from left, are Joanne Harvey, president of the Diocesan Home & School Association; Dr. Pattie Davis, superintendent of Catholic Schools; and Bishop Michael Duca.
McDaniel became active with the SJA Dadsβ Club when his oldest daughter, Sydnee, became a member of the freshman class in the fall of 2017. He assumed the role of president when the then-president passed away unexpectedly in 2019. McDaniel was the driving force behind reenergizing the Dadsβ Club into a thriving and active group of men who support SJA, nurture family ties and help the school community in any number of ways. Sydnee graduated from SJA in 2021 and from Southern Methodist University in May.
McDaniel is the national strategic account manager for Johnson Controls. He is married to Ashley Hebert McDaniel, a 1988 SJA graduate, who is the principal of St. Thomas More School. They are active parishioners at St. Thomas More.
Celebrating with Ron McDaniel as he was named SJAβs Mother Seton Award recipient for 2025 are, from left, Gia and Marcus Mashon, David Roppolo, Craig Herpin, Ashley Hebert McDaniel β88, the honoree, Samee McDaniel β25, Alli Bourgeois β14, Jade Spears, John Paul Funes and Tuan Pham.
Annual Brunch and Style Show
The 2025 Mother-Daughter Brunch and Style Show, hosted by the St. Josephβs Academy Mothersβ Club on April 6, was a great success. SJA students and their mothers enjoyed the special event at Raising Caneβs River Center, which featured seniors accompanied by their moms and modeling the latest spring fashions. The theme for this yearβs event was Love Sticker Fancy.
Mothersβ Club President Krista Valluzzo welcomed the large crowd and introduced event chair Elise Cazes and her daughter Brenley β27 and co-chair Amy Radle Fasullo β92 and her daughter Mia Carlson β26. Brenley and Mia offered the opening prayer.
Joining Hebert and Cazes on the planning committee were Andrae Hebert, Chrissy Roussel, Julie Doerner Watson β97, Sydney Braud, Katey Bergeron, Kim LeBoeuf, Heddie Carville Murthy β97, Tina Rispone and Kassi Samson β13.
Guest dancers were Catholic High School students Miles Babin, Josh Tucker, Lee Dirks, Nico Jones, Charlie Lanehart, Tate McCurry, Gus Piazza, Jack Ritter, Hudson Rounds and Brady Waguespack. Laney LeBoeuf choreographed their dances.
Event sponsors were Thornton, Musso & Bellemin Water Treatment Consultants and Alpha-Lit Baton Rouge. Tina LaHaye provided the commemorative charms given to each student in attendance.
SJA HOSTS Retirement Reception
FOR LONG-TIME EMPLOYEES
Five long-time members of the St. Josephβs Academy faculty and staff were honored at a retirement reception on May 9. The gathering for family, alumnae, friends and faculty/staff was held in the Fife Student Commons.
These dedicated and passionate employees were honored for their service to the Academy community, shaping generations of students and inspiring colleagues with their commitment to the SJA mission.
Glynis Davis taught French at SJA for 44 years. She said the Academy is a part of her and that she thinks of herself as an alumna, even though she graduated from Cabrini in New Orleans. βSJA has become my family,β she said. βThe school is intertwined with the birth of my children, my husband teaching next door at Catholic High and my daughters graduating from SJA. Over the years, I have become very close to many students. I still have contact with them today. I have taught whole families.
Celebrating the retirement of their former French teacher, Glynis Davis, are alumnae Emma Durnin β20, Rhianna San Soucie β20 and Ainsley Claire Schulte β19.
βI have made so many close friendships with coworkers,β Davis added. βI will miss the camaraderie among the faculty and staff. I will miss the amazing girls who attend and have attended SJA. They kept me young. I enjoyed their enthusiasm and their wit. I will miss sharing the funny moments in class with them, traveling with them to francophone countries and taking them to French conventions; too many wonderful memories to point out just one.β
Arthur Smith served as SJAβs maintenance supervisor for 37 years. He was unable to attend the reception. He said he has enjoyed his Academy years and his various responsibilities, ranging from contractor coordination to major project supervision and support. βBeing able to keep and care for this place so that students, faculty and staff have a good experience at SJA is what I most enjoyed,β he said. βI also enjoyed helping the Sisters when they lived on campus.β
Members of the Academic Counseling Center staff enjoyed the retirement reception on May 9. From left, they are Kellie Braud Wintz β02, Lindsay Carlino β02, retiree Mary Beth Elfert, Allison Hipwell Bruton β95, Melissa Shaw β96 and Ellen Frazier. Not pictured are Valerie Bordelon Brubaker β95 and Ally Giardina.
Posing with Donna Blanc, fourth from left, are staff members Wendy Coniglio, Alli Bourgeois β14, Jennifer Knight, Kassi Samson β13, Ashley Reed Ledet β88, Meredith Smith and Victoria Hudson β09.
Donna Blanc has been a member of the Mission Advancement Department for 28 years. She said SJA has been a wonderful place to work. βAt SJA, they put God and family first,β she said. βMy son has autism, and they were always very understanding of my situation. I believe in the mission of SJA and love that they are teaching wonderful values to the girls.β
Mary Beth Elfert has been part of SJAβs Counseling Center for 25 years. She said her time at SJA allowed her to grow professionally while enjoying a balance between family and work. βIt has been such a joy supporting and encouraging students to reach their academic and personal goals,β she said. βI feel especially blessed to have been in such an incredible community of faith and friends.
βI will especially miss the students and friendships I have made over the years with the faculty, staff, administration and coworkers in my department. I truly hope to continue to be a part of SJA in some way.β
Amy Neck has taught Family and Consumer Science for 19 years. She said she was grateful to work in a school that offers students the opportunity to learn to sew. βI find it purposeful to pass along this useful knowledge,β she said. βI will especially miss the Sewing Lab. The space has everything, and I mean everything, you could want or need to create. When this space is filled with students, it becomes magical.β
Amy Neck, left, shares a laugh with Principal Stacia Andricain.
TWO SCHOLARSHIPS ESTABLISHED IN SJA FOUNDATION
The Armon Matthew Tajdaran Memorial Scholarship has been established in the SJA Foundation. The scholarship, established by longtime faculty member Jamal Tajdaran in memory of his son, provides tuition assistance for deserving SJA students and their families.
The scholarship in Armonβs name enables SJA to offer the opportunity of an Academy education to any applicant who meets the schoolβs admission requirements, regardless of her familyβs ability to pay full tuition.
To make a gift to the Armon Matthew Tajdaran Memorial Scholarship, visit sjabr.org/giving/scholarships.
The Mahjong Madness planning committee is pictured at the inaugural event. They are, left to right, Alli Bourgeois β14, Layne Salvant β06, Andrea Clesi McMakin β74, Caroline Bondy Taylor β16, Rose Marie DeJohn Fife β72, Gabriella St. Amant and Jennifer Knight. Armon Matthew Tajdaran
The SJA Mahjong Madness Scholarship was established by the committee which planned the inaugural Mahjong Madness event, held on campus on April 9. Committee members, who recognize the value of an Academy education, wanted proceeds from the event to support SJAβs endowed scholarship program, which is at the heart of one of SJAβs most treasured traditions: the ability to offer need-based tuition assistance to deserving students and their families.
Gabriella St. Amant was a member of the planning committee. βThe best way to help young women achieve their potential is to give them the best education possible,β
she said. βAs a committee, we feel that an SJA education opens doors to so many opportunities, and what better way to support young women than by giving that opportunity to families who may not have the ability to afford it on their own? We are hopeful that by having more Mahjong Madness Open Play Nights that we encourage community, strengthen friendships and ultimately endow a scholarship or two.β
To make a gift to the SJA Mahjong Madness Scholarship, visit sjabr.org/giving/scholarships.
SHARING HISTORY THROUGH DONATION OF ITEMS TO Archives
We continue to be grateful to the St. Josephβs Academy alumnae and their family members who donate their treasured mementoes to the Sister Eugenie Veglia and Sister Felix Loup Archives. Through these donations, the history of SJA is kept alive for current and future generations of Redstickers to enjoy.
If you have an item or items youβd like to share with us, please contact Archivist Nan Murtagh at murtaghn@sjabr.org or (225) 388-2330.
Lindsay Carlino β02 donated her lettermanβs jacket. Lindsay ran track for SJA and lettered all four years. As a senior, she won the Captainβs Award, Coachβs Award and the Sports-Care Scholar-Athlete Award, given in recognition of excellence in academic and athletics while making significant contributions to the community. Lindsay was also named the Outstanding Track Performer for 2002. Pictured here are members of the 4x100 and 4x200 meter relay teams: Lindsay Carlino, April Palombo Setliff β01, Brandi Bielkiewicz Bronold β01 and Genny Addison Jock β03.
Kelley Maranto Mathews β90 donated a number of items, including her softball lettermanβs jacket, academic letter sweater and class ring.
Elise Gatz Blewster β73 donated a plaid uniform jumper, PE bloomers, a uniform guideline sheet, Student Council campaign flyers and handwritten English IV final exam instructions from Drusilla βDruciβ Balkom.
Diane Marie Laurent Kirsch, SJA-New Orleans class of 1950, donated her class ring. As SJA-New Orleans is no longer in existence, Diane wanted her class ring to have a home where it can be enjoyed.
We continue to celebrate mothers and daughters who work together or who work in the same field. If you and your mom (or daughter) work together, or if you know an alumnae mother/daughter duo who do, please reach out to us at connections@sjabr.org.
In our last issue of Connections, we featured Holly Heroman Andrews β79 and her oldest daughter, Amy Andrews β06, and their community service work as co-founders (with Saundra Lane) of 100 Strong, which raises awareness and funds for local organizations. Holly is the media director of The Moran Group Advertising Agency, and Amy is a financial advisor with Raymond James. In this issue, we look at Hollyβs partnership with her youngest daughter, Ashley Andrews Dodge β11, and her online jewelry company, Steward & James.
focuses on design, quality and affordability. Each piece is named after a loved one, becoming not only an accessory but a tribute to cherished memories. βThroughout the years, our community has shared beautiful stories and memories of their loved ones with us,β Ashley said. βWe are honored to create namesake pieces through our Name the Jewelry Contest. Many of the stories that have been kindly shared with us have been associated with loss, heartache or disease. Itβs been a fulfilling endeavor to create something beautiful and tangible from the spirit of their stories.β
Inspired by these stories, Ashley said Steward & James puts its mission into action. Each month, through Spreading Joy: Giving Back & Creating Memories, Ashley donates 10 percent of monthly sales to a worthy cause.
Creative by nature, Ashley discovered a passion for clothing design in her Family and Consumer Science and Clothing Construction classes at St. Josephβs Academy. She saw the potential for a career doing something she loved and furthered her studies at Louisiana State University, graduating in 2015 with a degree in apparel design.
When she showcased a collection at New Orleans Fashion Week, she realized that what most captivated her were accessories and their ability to transform an outfit as well as the wearerβs confidence. She began a career in product development, focusing on clothing and accessories for another brand. Her work took her to India and China multiple times a year, where she gained hands-on experience in the production process. βIt was an immersive experience that fueled my passion for the art of accessory design,β Ashley said.
When COVID struck, Ashley made a life-changing decision. βI left the job I once loved to build the career I have always dreamed of: my own line, where I had complete creative control,β she said. βIn November of 2020, Steward & James launched online to the world. Since then, we have been featured in British Vogue, Baton Rouge Business Report, 225 and inRegister.β
Named for her grandfathers, Ashleyβs jewelry company
While most of her business is online, Ashley travels throughout the year to showcase her jewelry at various expos and shows. By her side is her mother. βEver since I can remember, Mom has always been my biggest cheerleader,β Ashley said. βShe always believed in my dreams, no matter how big they were. Even when I didnβt believe in myself, she was always there cheering me on.β
Holly will use vacation leave from her full-time job to travel with Ashley to various jewelry expos. βItβs a blessing to work with Ashley,β Holly said. βShe knows the life cycle of each product from concept to production to distribution. Her marketing is impeccable.β
Ashley said the time spent with her mom is priceless. Even when an expo day stretches to 10 or more hours, they thoroughly enjoy each otherβs company. βThe time we have spent together and the memories we have shared have become priceless, and I wouldnβt want to do it with anyone else,β she said.
Holly agreed. βTo be able to work closely with both my daughters makes me the luckiest mom in the world,β she said. βAnd all three of us share the SJA bond. What more can I say?β
While they donβt work together, Ashlyn Hindrichs Fresina and her mother, Anne Webre Hindrichs, were both called to careers in the field of social work. Ashlyn, a 2016 Academy graduate, is a school-based social worker in the Zachary Community School District. Anne, class of 1981, recently retired as executive director of McMains Childrenβs Development Center, where she spent 37 years.
Ashlyn earned her licensed master social work (LMSW) certification following her graduation from Louisiana State University in 2021. She began her career as the pediatric emergency department social worker at Our Lady of the Lake Childrenβs Hospital. After a year, she moved into her current position in the Zachary school district. She serves as the treasurer of the Louisiana Association of School Social Workers. In March of 2025, Ashlyn earned her licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) certification. βMy career is still young, but I am excited about the possibilities, especially after earning my LCSW,β Ashlyn said.
Ashlyn especially loves working with children and adolescents. She said she is quick to tell the teens she works with that trust and respect are earned. βIt is an absolute privilege when I recognize I have earned that from a young person,β she said. βFrom there, being a support for them through challenging times as well as successes is huge. Forming a genuine relationship with the young people I work with is my favorite part about being a social worker.β
Anne said she is extremely proud that her daughter followed in her career footsteps. βI respect her as a colleague and think she is very good at her job,β Anne said. βI think the best part is being able to talk with her and share things that only another social worker would understand.β
Anne graduated from Louisiana State University with a degree in special education, then earned her masterβs degree in social work in 1988. She would go on to earn her LCSW and LCSW-BACs certifications. When McMains was acquired by Our Lady of the Lake in February 2022, Anne became an operations director, assuming leadership of numerous local clinics.
Since retiring, Anne continues to serve as the board chair of the Capital Area Autism Network.
Anne said she has most loved working with children and their families. Especially meaningful was the opportunity to create and be a part of programs for all children, regardless of ability. βOur programs were for children with developmental disabilities and their brothers and sisters,β she said. βWe created an adapted canoe trip, an all-inclusive art camp, an adapted bike program, an inclusive garden and a Capable Play program. Our most recent program was Sensory-on-the-Geaux bags, which we gave out at places such as large sporting events so children with autism and other sensory issues could enjoy the experiences. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing kids just get to be kids.β
βI am incredibly proud of my motherβs career, and it has been very influential in my own life,β Ashlyn said. βI am so proud of my mother and her accomplishments.β
Ashlyn Hindrichs Fresina β16 and her mother, Anne Webre Hindrichs β81
Alumnae sorted and repacked food items in the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank warehouse.
ALUMNAE ENJOY INAUGURAL
SJA Service Days
The Mission Integration and Alumnae offices of St. Josephβs Academy hosted the inaugural SJA Alumnae Service Days April 7, 8 and 12.
At the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank on April 7, participants sorted and repacked food items in the warehouse. On April 8, alumnae served at the Claiborne at Baton Rouge, calling bingo, participating in room visits and helping residents make cheese balls. In partnership with Keep Tiger Town Beautiful on April 12, alumnae picked up litter along Sherwood Forest Boulevard at I-12.
βThese experiences are the embodiment of sanctity, joy and action,β said Mission Integration Director Jade Spears. βWe were able to serve the dear neighbor without distinction in an overflow of our love of God and self. It is my hope that these opportunities continue a love of service beyond a young womanβs four years at the Academy.β
Graduatespickeduplitter
Alumnae Director Alli Bourgeois β14 said plans are in the works to host future Alumnae Service Days on an annual or bi-annual basis
Two St. Josephβs Academy graduates were among the competitors in season one of the popular new survival series, Extracted, which aired on Fox between February 10 and April 28. Amateur survivalist Meagan Delatte Murphy, a 2012 graduate, was among the 12 contestants stranded in the Canadian wilderness. Best friend Abby Hayes, SJA class of 2015, and Murphyβs father, Gerrad Delatte, were her support team and, along with loved ones of the other contestants, watched and listened to the survival efforts via a 24-hour live feed from a nearby headquarters.
According to Fox, participants attempt to survive extremely grueling conditions, perilous terrain and the threat of fearsome predators while their support teams decide their fate by negotiating to send survival packages via drone or push the βExtractβ button to remove the contestants from the competition. The last team standing wins $250,000.
Murphy said the three weeks in the woods around Madeley Lake in British Columbia taught her a great deal about herself. βThere were so many wins that you donβt see on the show, but I just took it day by day and never was going to give up,β she said.
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photos courtesy of FOX Broadcasting Company
Meagan Delatte Murphy β12
Hayes, who was Murphyβs Lil Sis at SJA, said it was inspiring to watch the survivalists push themselves beyond their limits. βSeeing them overcome things they once thought were impossible made me think a lot about my own resilience,β Hayes said. βI spent a lot of time watching how they handled challenges in real time, and it really drove home how important it is to stay positive and to see failure as part of growth. Watching them break through mental barriers was honestly one of the most powerful parts of the whole experience.β
Murphy said weather and extreme hunger were among the biggest challenges she faced. But, given the opportunity, she would do it all again. βFor those who want to try something crazy with their family, here is your chance,β she said. βYou will learn so much about yourself and your loved ones. It truly is a once-in-alifetime opportunity.β
Hayes said one of the most meaningful aspects of the Extracted experience was the support Team Meagan received from the Academy community. βHearing from friends at SJA, some of whom I hadnβt spoken to in years, meant the world to me,β she said. βIt reminded me how powerful and lasting those connections are. To everyone who followed along, sent a message or simply rooted for us from afar, thank you. Your encouragement lifted us in ways you probably donβt even realize, and weβll never forget it.β
Abby Hayes β15 watches her best friend, Meagan Delatte Murphy β12, compete in Extracted.
Meagan Delatte Murphy β12
Abby Hayes β15, Meagan Delatte Murphy β12 and Gerrad Delatte
Reunions
The St. Josephβs Academy Alumnae Association hosted a reunion on April 23 for graduates living in the New Orleans area. The gathering was held at the home of Sarah Smith-Clevenger β08.
Graduation years of the alumnae in attendance ranged from 1966 to 2023.
βIt was a great night visiting with fellow alumnae in a beautiful home,β said SJA Alumnae Director Alli Bourgeois β14. Also representing SJA were Human Resources Director Ashley Reed Ledet β88 and longtime faculty member Glynis Davis, who retired at the end of the school year after teaching French at the Academy for 44 years.
Enjoying the New Orleans Redsticker Reunion were (back row, left to right) Catherine Contini β19, Trystan Tate β19, Gracie Poe β19, Jo Cangelosi β71, Ashley Thibodeaux β15, Emma Abadie β23, Sarah Smith-Clevenger β08, Laura Rachal β05, Alexa Dow Sturtz β09, Ashley Dow Caponegro β07, Megan St. Germain Ponseti β11, Glynis Davis, Emily Padgett β11, (seated) Nancy Sutton Eskew β66, Toots Villere β68, Alli Bourgeois β14 and Adrienne Wood β11
Members of the St. Josephβs Academy class of 1970 were invited to join their counterparts at Catholic High School for a gathering to celebrate their 55th class reunion. Pictured from left are Tara Nolan Messenger, Patricia Harkins Swenson, Annette Friloux Wilson, Sharon Mince Ford and Celia Cangelosi.
LORRAINEMETTERNICH
β42 Lorraine Metternich Bourg celebrated her 100th birthday on February 2 at her home with family members, many of whom traveled from out of town for the special occasion. Included in the celebration were granddaughters and Academy graduates Mandi Vierck Hebert β00, Jennifer Feig Thibodeaux β03, Geralyn Bordelon Siefker β04, Jamie Feig Browning β06 and Rachel Vierck Amie β08. Lorraine was part of the first class to graduate from the Academyβs Broussard Street campus.
β67 Vickie Trahan Holden retired after working for 32 years as a paralegal in the Baton Rouge area. For the past 13 years, she has been with the Womanβs Hospital Auxiliary working in the Labor and Delivery Unit of Womanβs Hospital. She is now awaiting the birth of her 15th, 16th and 17th greatgrandchildren, including the first set of twins in the family, all due in October of 2025.
β93 COLL
β93 Colleen Romero was recently named chief marketing officer and general manager, Direct to Consumer, for Swanson Health. The company sells more than 10,000 vitamin and supplement products online and at major retailers in the U.S. and abroad.
Colleen earned a bachelor of business administration degree from Loyola University New Orleans in 1997 and a master of international management from Thunderbird School of Global Management in 1999. Among the awards she has received are the Communicator Award of Excellence, Horizon Award Recognizing Excellence in Interactive Media Production and an AMY Award for Email Strategy. She is also certified by PROSCI in Change Management. She is a long-distance cyclist and recently completed her first century (100-mile) ride.
EMILYELLISWELCH
β95 Emily Ellis Welch will release two books this year. The first, entitled Southern Wisdom, an Insiderβs Guide to Sayings βnβ Such, will be available June 24 from Rock Point Press. The
β01 Carmen Gealogo is an assistant attorney general for the state of Louisiana. She works directly with the Troop NOLA division of the Louisiana State Police on prosecuting criminal cases in Orleans Parish. She earned her juris doctorate from Loyola University College of Law in New Orleans.
β05 Lindsay Key recently started a new position with Raising Caneβs: manager of training execution at the Dallas Restaurant Support Office. She has been with the company for seven years, holding several positions. She spent time in restaurant operations in Mississippi before transitioning into a Business Unit role supporting training in Mississippi and Minnesota. She moved to Florida to support training in that emerging market and, in February of 2025, relocated to Dallas to move into her new role supporting training programs across the company. Lindsay earned a bachelor of arts degree in mass communications from Louisiana State University in 2009 and a master of hospitality management from the University of North Texas in 2013. In her spare time, she enjoys scuba diving, which has taken her to Fiji, Tonga, Bonaire and the Dominican Republic.
β95
β07 Jamie Freeman recently opened an independent bookstore on Highland Road in Baton Rouge, TBR Books & Tea. Celebrating its grand opening in April, the bookstore caters to all readers with an extensive array of literary genres, games and puzzles along with a selection of artisanal teas. Jamie plans to host book club meetings, story times and afternoon high tea. Jamie graduated from the University of Central Florida in 2011, earning a bachelor of fine arts degree in film production. She is the executive director of the Association of Louisiana Lobbyists and the president of the Louisiana Society of Association Executives. She is a member of the American Booksellers Association and the Southern Independent Booksellers Association. In her spare time, she attends sporting events in support of her nephew. She loves to read and has taken up crocheting.
β14
pregnant with her second daughter, Genevieve. The picture book celebrates the best qualities and quirks of little girls. Ideal for children ages 3-7, the story encourages creativity, imagination and an appreciation for the small joys in life. It can be found on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Madison graduated with a bachelor of arts degree in communication from Southeastern Louisiana University. This summer, she begins studies at the University of Holy Cross to become a certified teacher and earn a masters in educational leadership degree. She is a pre-K teacher at St. Louis King of France in Metairie; in August, she will begin teaching pre-K4 at St. Pius X in New Orleans. She stays busy with two little girls ages 2 and under, but when she has free time, she loves to read and recently picked up embroidery as a hobby.
β15 EMILYA
β14 Madison Lyons Hoffman has written a childrenβs book about her daughter, Penelope. During the publishing process of Little Girl Loves
Aβ15 Emily Anzaldua is an elementary school teacher who has been employed since 2020 by Iberville Elementary School: A Montessori Program as a K-6th grade physical education teacher and basketball coach. She also coaches volleyball for the Iberville Parks and Recreation Department and was recently promoted to the position of volleyball clinic director. She graduated in 2019 from Louisiana State University with a degree in kinesiology and a K-12
β15 Allie Smith Dupre will graduate in August from Louisiana State Universityβs clinical psychology doctoral program. Her research has focused on parent and family factors that influence child anxiety. She is passionate about supporting caregivers to be change agents for their childβs progress through increasing parent psychoeducation, skillset and confidence. Through providing evaluations and intervention for youth, she hopes to assist families in understanding their children and open doors for them to access services. Allie will begin working as a clinical psychologist in the fall at Under the Oak in Baton Rouge. She is a member of St. Aloysius Parish and enjoys volunteering as a Eucharistic minister. In her spare time, she enjoys spending quality time with her husband, two young daughters and large extended family. She lives close to the St. Josephβs Academy campus and reports that one of her 2-year-oldβs favorite activities is to visit the various St. Joseph statues. βIf you happen to see flowers, leaves, crackers or other βtreatsβ left at their feet, you know who to blame.β
β18 Skylar Culmone and Adeline Holyfield graduated from the physician assistant program at Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University in May. Both graduated with grade point averages of 4.0. Skylar is currently deciding where she will work, while Adeline has taken a job as a hospitalist physician assistant at Our Lady of the Lake Childrenβs Hospital. Both were part of Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady Universityβs Physician Assistant Class of 2025 Student Organization, Louisiana Academy of Physician Assistants and American Academy of Physician Associates.
β18 Anna Koonce and Jessica Munson graduated from law school in May, Anna from Tulane University and Jessica from Loyola University New Orleans. The two have been friends since they met as freshmen at St. Josephβs Academy. At Tulane, Anna was vice president of the business law society and a managing editor of Tulaneβs environmental law journal. She has accepted a position as a junior associate at Kirkland and Ellis in New York. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time in Audubon Park. At Loyola, Jessica was the vice president of the Environmental Law Society and a member of Womenβs Law Association and If When Now. She has also been involved in several nonprofit legal externships focused
β21 Camille Cronin graduated in May from Louisiana State University with a degree in political science with a concentration in American government and politics. She will attend law school in the fall of 2025. Camille served two terms as LSUβs chief justice of the University (Supreme) Court. She was appointed to the Court by the student body president and then elected chief justice by her peers on the Court as a junior. She ran for re-election and won a second term for her senior year. Also during her senior year, Camille was chosen as LSUβs 2024 homecoming queen. She was a panel chairwoman for the Office of Student Advocacy and Accountability, mentor for the Freshman Leadership Counsel and member of the Code of Student Conduct Revision Committee. She is a nationally awarded member of Phi Mu as honorable mention for Outstanding Collegiate Member for Campus/Community Service and is a tenured head page for the Louisiana State Senate.
HELP US REACH OUR Annual Fund Goal
Summer has arrived at St. Josephβs Academy. The crepe myrtles in the courtyard are in full bloom, the class of 2025 has graduated and our students and faculty are enjoying a well-deserved break. As the school year comes to a close, so does the 2024-2025 Annual Fund campaign.
The SJA Annual Fund is designed to involve our entire community β parents, alumnae and friends β in the ministry of Catholic education. The Annual Fund ensures that SJA can provide the quality and variety of academic, co-curricular and extracurricular programs that give each student the opportunity to fulfill her full potential. Every gift supports all facets of an SJA education, making a direct impact on every student and program.
The focus of our Annual Fund is to involve as many people in our community as possible by inviting them to make a gift that is within their philanthropic budget. Whether it is a new alumna giving $10 or a longtime supporter giving at the $2,000 level, every gift to St. Josephβs Academy makes a big difference!
Our goal this year is to raise 4 percent of our operating budget through the Annual Fund. To date, our parents, alumnae and friends have generously given more than $670,000 or 3.95 percent of our operating budget. We are so close to achieving our goal. It is not too late to make your gift today!
Our fiscal year ends June 30. Will you please help us reach our goal?
Donβt wait. Gifts can be made online at www.sjabr.org. Click on the βGive Onlineβ button at the top of the screen. Or mail a check to SJA Foundation, 3015 Broussard Street, Baton Rouge, LA 70808.
Please direct questions to Mission Advancement Director Meg Gerald at (225) 388-2254 or geraldm@sjabr.org.
One gift. Any amount. Your support matters. Together, we are SJA.
WHAT A DIFFERENCE a Day Makes
What a day! On Wednesday, March 19, members of the St. Josephβs Academy community came together in full force to participate in the ninth SJA Give Day honoring the feast of our patron, St. Joseph. This 24-hour giving event benefits the St. Josephβs Academy Annual Fund. More than 950 donors contributed, and together, we raised more than $170,000, far surpassing our goal in just one day.
The class of 2025 drove the momentum, with an impressive 63 percent participation rate. Seniors made donations in honor of someone who helped them through their high school years. They also pledged $10 every year for the next four years to leave a legacy for the girls who will follow them at SJA.
The Redsticker Society helped lead the way with their early contributions to Give Day. Senior Ambassadors who motivated their classmates to give $5 now and $10 for the next four years were (front row) Caroline Roussel, Nola Savoie, Clara Couvillion, Ava Hoffman, Hailey Sumich, Finley Malone, Lola Avery, Sara Ryan Elliott, Isabella Walton, (back row) Hannah Grace Zimmerman, Anna Camille deBlieux, Charley Bergeron, Ryann Dotson, Ainsley Graves and Raygan Irvin
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It is truly exciting that we had such a broad range of donors on SJA Give Day. Alumnae donors represented 26 states and the District of Columbia and spanned class years from 1955 to 2024. Parents, friends and grandparents of St. Josephβs Academy also all came together to support SJA. The numbers show how far the SJA community reaches.
Our success would not have been possible without our challenge donors. Thank you to Jan Rhorer Breen β69, Katie Thompson β16, Kristy Roubique β76, SJA Dadsβ Club,
SJA Mothersβ Club, Yolunda and Jonathan Taylor, Re (Bologna β71) and David DiVincenti, Corey (Braud β86) and Shaun Toups, Holly and Justin DeKeyzer, Suzie (Toups β85) and Andy Adler, the Shane and Sarah Morrison Family, Dorren Schmitt β80 and Charlie Valluzzo.
Thank you to all who participated in Give Day 2025. Your generosity will make an impact and continue to enhance the SJA experience for years to come.
WHAT IS A Legacy?
Over the years, many wonderfully generous individuals have included St. Josephβs Academy in their estate planning. Some have been motivated by an appreciation for what the school has done for them or their daughters. Others chose to honor a beloved teacher, a Sister of St. Joseph or a someone who made a meaningful impact at an important point in their lives.
The Legacy Society was established to recognize these generous parents, alumnae, parents of alumnae, grandparents and friends of St. Josephβs Academy for their lasting commitment to our mission.
The Legacy Society allows us to recognize our legacy donors during their lifetime. Unfortunately, many of our generous supporters have never notified the school of their intentions. We would be humbled and honored to welcome you into The Legacy Society if you have or would like to:
β’ Provide for St. Josephβs Academy in your will or trust.
β’ Designate SJA as the beneficiary of a qualified retirement plan, savings bond, bank account or life insurance policy.
β’ Name St. Josephβs Academy as a beneficiary of a planned gift.
To be added to the membership of the Legacy Society, please contact Mission Advancement Director Meg Gerald at geraldm@sjabr.org or (225) 388-2254 or clip and mail the form below to her attention at St. Josephβs Academy, 3015 Broussard Street, Baton Rouge, LA 70808.
LEAVING A LEGACY AT ST. JOSEPHβS ACADEMY
I am/we are pleased to inform you that I/we (check all that apply):
β Have already included St. Josephβs Academy in my/our estate plans.
β Am/are considering a planned gift to St. Josephβs Academy.
β Would like a personal call or visit to discuss a planned gift.
β Would like to receive information about how to include SJA in a will.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Name(s)
Address
City
St. Josephβs Academy, 3015 Broussard Street, Baton Rouge, LA 70808
Red steppers
WIN NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP IN GAME DAY
The St. Josephβs Academy Red Steppers are national champions in Game Day for the second year in a row, bringing home top honors from the 2025 National Dance Team Championship, held January 31-February 2 at the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando. The competition is administered by Universal Dance Association and is the only national-level dance team championship endorsed by the National Federation of State High School Associations.
In addition to their first-place finish in the Large Varsity Division II Game Day, the Red Steppers captured the bronze medal in Hip Hop and finished fifth in Jazz.
βThere are no words to truly describe how proud I am of this team,β said coach Jade McCune. βThey have worked so hard this year and truly left it all on the floor. To watch the
growth of each individual as a dancer and as a person has been so rewarding. Even more rewarding is to see the bond they have formed as a team. They trust each other. They push each other. They support each other. They love each other. What more could a coach ask for? Yes, Iβm so proud of their placements, but more than that, Iβm proud of their journey. I love these girls so much! What a wonderful season!β
McCune said it was especially gratifying to bring home the top prize in the Game Day competition. βWinning Game Day gives us the most pride because we really do it for SJA,β McCune said. βWe always talk about what we love about SJA before we go on the floor and say we are doing this for our school. To bring back another championship for our school is a special accomplishment.β
The Red Steppers brought home their second national championship in the Game Day competition from the 2025 National Dance Team Championship in Orlando.
SJA HOSTS INAUGURAL
Women in STEM Experience
Young women from several Baton Rouge-area schools gathered at St. Josephβs Academy on March 29 for the inaugural Women in STEM Experience. Coordinated by Taylor Templet, SJAβs Help Desk and eSports manager, the event was designed to bring together female students to ignite their passion for science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
Participants heard from female guest speakers from the gaming and STEM disciplines and enjoyed playing video games. Students from University View Academy, Louisiana Virtual Charter Academy and Episcopal High School joined their peers from SJA.
βThe all-girls eSports event was an unforgettable experience β both fun and educational β in which young women came together to explore the exciting world of eSports and STEM,β Templet said. βIt was incredible to witness the enthusiasm and camaraderie among the participants, but one moment truly stood out to me. A student from SJA walked up to me with a huge smile and said, βI had a lot of fun, and I got to make a new friend.β That simple yet powerful statement reaffirmed what this event was all about: building connections, breaking barriers and opening doors to new opportunities in eSports.β
By fostering collaboration and providing hands-on opportunities, Women in STEM Experience seeks to bridge the gender gap in STEM fields and empower the next generation of female leaders. Louisiana faces a notable underrepresentation of women in STEM careers, with only 28 percent of the stateβs workforce in STEM occupations being female. The SJA initiative provided girls with the opportunity to connect, learn from role models and explore STEM careers, ultimately encouraging them to pursue higher education and careers in these vital fields.
βThis is just the beginning of a new eSports chapter for SJA, and I canβt wait to see where it leads,β Templet said. βLooking ahead to next school year, I envision an even bigger event, one that welcomes both girls and boys, bringing middle and high schoolers together from across East Baton Rouge for an exhilarating eSports tournament. Imagine a space where students can compete, collaborate and celebrate the gaming community in a way that unites and inspires. The future of eSports in our schools is bright, and this is only the first level.β
Participants in the inaugural Women in STEM Experience enjoyed playing video games.
Candace Wright, an instructional technology coordinator for University View Academy, spoke with Women in STEM Experience participants about the opportunities available to young women in STEM careers.
Offered admission to 165 colleges and universities.
Alabama State University
American University
Angelo State University
Appalachian State University
Arizona State University
Auburn University
Aurora University
Baton Rouge Community College
Baylor University
Belhaven University
Belmont University
Biola University
Blinn College
Boston University
Catholic University of America
Centenary College of Louisiana
Centre College
Clark Atlanta University
Clark University
CONGRATULATIONS
$28.5 million in scholarship money was offered to 75 percent of the class (as of 5/8/2025). This does not include TOPS scholarship information, which is not yet available.
Clemson University
Coastal Carolina University College of Charleston
Colorado State University
Colorado State University Pueblo
Dallas Baptist University
Davidson College
Denham Springs Beauty School
Elon University
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Florida Atlantic University
Florida Institute of Technology
Florida State University
Fordham University
Franciscan Missionaries of Our
Lady University
Furman University
George Mason University
Fifty-two seniors completed 50 or more hours of community service during each of their four years.
George Washington University
Georgetown University
Georgia Institute of Technology
Georgia State University
Hampton University
Hendrix College
High Point University
Howard University
Huston-Tillotson University
Indiana Tech
Kansas State University
Lehigh University
Louisiana Christian University
Louisiana State University
Louisiana State UniversityEunice
Louisiana Tech University
Loyola Marymount University
Loyola University New Orleans
CONGRATULATIONS TO
McNeese State University
Mississippi College
Mississippi State University
Montana State University
Morgan State University
Mount Saint Mary's University
Muhlenberg College
Nicholls State University
North Carolina State University
Northeastern Illinois University
Northeastern University
Northwestern State University of Louisiana
Ohio State University
Oklahoma City University
Oklahoma State University
Oregon State University
Pace University
Palm Beach Atlantic University
Pennsylvania State University
Pepperdine University
Purdue University
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Rhode Island College
Rhodes College
Ringling College of Art and Design
Rollins College
Rowan University
Savannah College of Art and Design
Seattle University
Seton Hall University
Southeastern Louisiana University
Southern Illinois University
Southern Methodist University
Southern University and A&M College
Southern University at New Orleans
The Class of2025 The Class of2025
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
Springfield College
SUNY Brockport
SUNY Buffalo State
Syracuse University
Temple University
Texas A&M University
Texas Christian University
Texas Tech University
The New School
Tufts University
Tulane University of Louisiana
University at Buffalo
University of Alabama
University of Alabama at Birmingham
University of Arizona
University of Arkansas
University of Arkansas at Little Rock
University of British Columbia
University of California-Irvine
University of California-
Santa Barbara
University of Cincinnati
University of Colorado Boulder
University of Colorado
Colorado Springs
University of Dallas
University of Denver
University of Florida
University of Georgia
University of Kentucky
University of La Verne
University of Louisiana at Lafayette
University of Louisiana at Monroe
University of Maine
University of Maryland
University of Miami
University of Michigan
University of Mississippi
University of Missouri
University of Nevada-Las Vegas
University of New Orleans
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
University of Northern Colorado
University of Notre Dame
University of Oklahoma
University of Pittsburgh
University of Richmond
University of Rochester
University of San Diego
University of San Francisco
University of South Alabama
University of South Carolina
University of South Florida
University of Southern
Mississippi
University of Tennessee
University of TennesseeChattanooga
University of Texas at San Antonio
University of the South
University of Toronto-
Scarborough
University of Vermont
University of Washington
University of West Florida
University of West Georgia
University of Wisconsin-Stout
University of WisconsinWhitewater
Ursinus College
Virginia Tech
Wake Forest University
Washington State University
West Virginia University
Westmont College
Wiley College
Xavier University of Louisiana
Cheerleaders Capture Fifth National Title
The St. Josephβs Academy Cheerleaders brought home their fifth consecutive national title, winning the 2025 National High School Cheerleading Championship (NHSCC). This yearβs competition was held February 7-10 at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando.
Produced by Universal Cheerleaders Association, the NHSCC is the pinnacle of cheerleading competitions for high school cheerleaders across the country.
The Redstickers competed in the Large Varsity Division II. During the semifinal round on Sunday, the team hit a zero-deduction routine and was in first place going into Mondayβs finals. Despite a one-point deduction for a minor building fall, the team came out on top because of the routineβs difficulty and execution.
Coach Jade Blalock said the season is best described in one word: growth. βThis team has accomplished so much as a team and as individuals,β she said. βObserving these young ladies at nationals has been inspiring, and coaching them was fulfilling. Every year, the expectations are set higher and higher with the
skill level that high school cheerleading competes at. These girls trusted me through the process, and I canβt thank them enough for that. These girls are sisters and love this sport but love each other more. Although it wasnβt the finals performance we hoped for, they know to be proud of everything that was accomplished. Iβm so proud to be their coach.β
Senior Ella Kate Falgoust, a captain of the squad, said the 26 cheerleaders came together as a family and supported each other throughout the competition. βWe pushed each other to be the best we could, and that is exactly what we did,β she said. βWe put two strong routines out on the competition floor and were rewarded for all of the hard work we put in. We have had a motto for the past couple of years: βEarned not given.β I think it really applied to this nationals win because after everything, we truly earned this title and were determined to make it happen. Being able to bring home a fifth win was truly incredible and so accomplishing, and I am so proud of this team for all of our success.β
The SJA Cheerleaders have captured five national championships in a row, bringing home top honors from the National High School Cheerleading Championship at the
Walt Disney World Resort.
The tennis team won the 2025 LHSAA Division I State Championship for the fifth year in a row.
The track and field team won the LHSAA Division Indoor Track and Field Championship and finished second in the outdoor state meet.
The soccer team advanced to the semifinal round of the state playoffs.
The gymnastics team finished second in the state gymnastics championship meet.
Three members of the powerlifting team qualified for the LHSAA Powerlifting State Championships.
The softball team advanced to the regional round of the Select Division I LHSAA Playoffs.
The bowling team finished second in district play.
The golf team posted a second-place finish in the metro tournament, won the regional tournament and placed fourth in the state tournament.
to the collegiate level
On the heels of seven members of the senior class signing commitment papers in December, another 17 senior student-athletes signed their national letters of intent during two ceremonies in April. Having 24 members of a senior class commit to competing at the collegiate level is a record for St. Josephβs Academy.
Part of the April 16 signing ceremony were three seniors who will run cross country: Michelle Daigle, Louisiana State University; Emmaline Ritter, Rhodes College; and Ainsley Brignac, Nicholls State University. Estelle LeBoeuf will join the gymnastics team at State University New York Brockport.
Four cheerleaders inked their commitment papers: Layla Benson, Katelyn Meliet and Alexandra Louque will cheer at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, and Ella Kate Falgoust will cheer at the University of West Georgia. Two soccer players signed their national letters of intent: Gracie Davis, Mississippi College, and Angelina Rispone, Nicholls State University.
Twelve St. Josephβs Academy student-athletes signed their national letters of intent on April 16. They were, left to right (back row) Michelle Daigle, Dillon Landry, Layla Benson, Gracie Davis, Alexandra Louque, Katelyn Meliet, Ainsley Brignac, (front row) Estelle LeBoeuf, Angelina Rispone, Emmaline Ritter, Ella Kate Falgoust and Alexandria Stewart.
Two track and field athletes will join collegiate teams next year: Alexandria Stewart, McNeese State University, and Dillon Landry, Louisiana Tech University.
On April 30, five members of the national champion Red Steppers dance team signed their commitment papers. Joining the LSU Golden Girls are Gabrielle Collier, Abby Grier and Jyllian Feet. Alysse Fee will become a member of the University of Nevada at Las Vegas Dance Team, and Kate Waguespack will join the University of Alabama Dance Team.
Signing their commitment papers on April 30 were, from left, Gabrielle Collier, Kate Waguespack, Abby Grier, Alysse Fee and Jyllian Feet.
Family Day at SJA
SATURDAY, JULY 19, 2025
We will celebrate the milestone reunion classes from 2020, 2015, 2010, 2005, 2000, 1995, 1990, 1985, 1980, 1975, 1970, 1965, 1960, 1955, 1950 and 1945.
In addition, you will find individual class reunion plans below. Please contact your class representatives for more details. If your class plans are not listed, feel free to contact Alumnae Director Alli Bourgeois β14 at bourgeoisa@sjabr.org
2020: 5-Year Reunion
Saturday, July 19, 2025
SJA/CHS Joint Reunion (spouses/dates welcome)
Time: 6-9 p.m.
Location: Ivarβs Sports Bar and Grill (2954 Perkins Rd, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70808)
Class Rep: Victoria Funes vjfunes02@gmail.com or (225) 978-5094
RSVP to your class representative.
2015: 10-Year Reunion
Friday, July 18, 2025
SJA Girlsβ Night Out Time: 7-10 p.m.
Location: Tap 65 (515 Mouton Street, Suite 103, Baton Rouge, LA 70806)
Details: $37/person includes unlimited beer, wine and champagne on tap. Cocktails and food available for purchase.
Saturday, July 19, 2025
SJA/CHS Joint Reunion (spouses/dates welcome)
Time: 8-11 p.m.
Location: Zippyβs (3155 Perkins Road Baton Rouge, LA 70808)
Details: $60/person includes food and drinks.
Class Reps: Ellie Seiter and Sarah Bertrand sjacof2015@gmail.com
RSVP on HobNob or to Maddie Drago Schwab at (225) 610-2089.
Details: $120/person or $200/ couple includes open bar, live band and heavy hors dβoeuvres RSVP and make payment by visiting the βClass of 2005β tab at www.sjabr.org/alumnae/ reunions
Class Reps: Courtney M. Bell, Courtney.bell87@gmail.com or (832) 696-6110
Mallory Morgan Bourg, mallorybourg.pa@gmail.com or (225) 337-0410
Kristen Braud Wilcox, kristenbwilcox@gmail.com or (225) 229-3872
2000: 25-Year Reunion
Friday, July 18, 2025
SJA Girlsβ Night Out Time: 6-8 p.m.
Location: The home of Whitney LaNasa (address will be provided upon payment and RSVP)
Details: $50/person RSVP and make payment by visiting the βClass of 2000β tab at www.sjabr.org/alumnae/ reunions
Refer to βSJA Class of 2000 Reunionβ Facebook page for information
Class Rep: Carley McCoy Denton carley.mccoy@gmail.com or (225) 454-4040
1995: 30-Year Reunion
Friday, July 18, 2025
SJA Girlsβ Night Out Time: 6-9 p.m.
Location: Uncle Earlβs (3753 Perkins Road, Suite E, Baton Rouge, LA 70808)
Details: $25/person includes rental fee and light appetizers. Cash bar will be available.
Saturday, July 19, 2025
SJA/CHS Joint Reunion (spouses/dates welcome)
Time: 7-10 p.m.
Location: The Antler Room at Fredβs Bar & Grill (1184 Bob Pettit Boulevard, Baton Rouge, LA 70820)
Details: $15/person includes rental fee and DJ. Cash bar will be available. RSVP and make payment by visiting the βClass of 1995β tab at www.sjabr.org/alumnae/ reunions.
Class Reps:
Amanda Register: aregister77@gmail.com or (225) 939-4313 (text only)
Brittany Martin: brittanym@cajunusa.com or (225) 772-3842
1990: 35-Year Reunion
The SJA and CHS classes of 1990 will not host a 35-year reunion in 2025. They are focusing their attention on planning an outstanding 40th reunion.
1985: 40-Year Reunion
Friday, July 18, 2025
SJA Girlsβ Night Out Time: 7:30 p.m. β until Location: The Station Saturday, July 19, 2025
Location: The Tavern Room at Baton Rouge Country Club Time: 10:30 a.m.-until Details: $50/person for brunch RSVP and make payment by visiting the βClass of 1965β tab at www.sjabr.org/alumnae/reunions.
Class Rep: Elaine DeFrances Ellis: elainedellis@gmail.com
The following tribute donations were made between February 1 and April 15, 2025. Please remember in your prayers those who are being honored as well as those who honored them.
In Memory of Mrs. Lois Abadie
Dr. and Mrs. William H. Gallmann
In Honor of Ms. Nola Adams β26
Mr. and Mrs. Wesley Adams
In Honor of Yvette Barbier Aillet β09
Ms. Ava Heine
Ms. Darby Thompson
In Memory of Mr. Charles R. Albright III
Ms. Louise Kyle
In Honor of Mrs. Katie Amato
Ms. Charley Bergeron
In Honor of Mrs. Stacia Andricain
Ms. Caroline Roussel
Mr. and Mrs. Scott F. Roussel
In Honor of Mrs. Alexandra Hedrick Arceneaux β07
Ms. Melissa Jeanne Long
Ms. Amanda Quintero
In Honor of Ms. Sydney Averett β27
Ms. Carol Hardy
In Honor of Ms. Lola Avery β25
Mr. and Mrs. Van Lambert
In Honor of Ms. Kaitlyn Bajon β25
Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Bajon Jr.
In Memory of Mr. Calvin Balencie
Mr. and Mrs. Darrell Ourso
In Memory of Mrs. Drusilla Balkom
Mr. Jason and Dr. Drew Arms
Jacqueline and Gerald Zeller
In Honor of Dr. Fran Barbera
Ms. Alexandra Louque
In Honor of Ms. Mia Barfield β25
Mrs. Julie Barfield
In Memory of Mrs. Ann Fryou Barrett β65
Mr. and Mrs. Brian Ackerman
In Honor of Mr. Stephen Barrios
Ms. Sophie Domangue
Ms. Grace Guidry
Ms. Janessa Ramlochan
Anonymous donor
In Honor of Ms. Leila Barroso β26
Maggie Parker and Juan Barroso
In Memory of Mrs. Bernice Copponex
Barry β42
Mr. and Mrs. Chuck Trask
In Honor of Ms. Julia Bauer β24
Mr. and Mrs. Paul Hornsby
In Honor of Ms. Charley Bergeron β25
Ms. Mary Ellis Beach
In Honor of Ms. Claire Bergeron β25
Mr. and Mrs. Timothy J. Bergeron
In Honor of Ms. Addison Bernhard β25
Mr. and Mrs. Sonny Young
In Honor of Mr. and Mrs. Dwayne Blanc
Rachel Blanc Treuting
In Honor of Ms. Charli Blanchard β25
Mr. and Mrs. Guy Blanchard
In Honor of Ms. Isley Blanchard β25
Mr. and Mrs. Justin Blanchard Jr.
In Memory of Ms. Jocelyn Bourgeois Blanchard β57
Mr. and Mrs. Clark G. Lanius
In Memory of Ms. Claire Bohn
Mr. and Mrs. Chris Bourgeois
In Honor of Ainsley Clare Booksh β21
Dr. and Mrs. Patrick F. Thistlethwaite
In Honor of Carrie Thistlethwaite Booksh β96
Dr. and Mrs. Patrick F. Thistlethwaite
In Honor of Ms. Catherine Booksh β22
Dr. and Mrs. Patrick F. Thistlethwaite
In Honor of Ms. Emily Booksh β25
Dr. and Mrs. Patrick F. Thistlethwaite
In Memory of Ms. Claire A. Booth β14
Ms. Allison Bourgeois
Grace Marie Ragland
In Memory of Mrs. Edith Fryoux Boudreaux β41
Mrs. Beverly Jackson
In Honor of Ms. Allison Bourgeois β14
Ms. Victoria Funes
In Honor of Ms. Harper Bourgeois β28
Mr. Charles and Dr. Janis Hill
In Honor of Ms. Mary Bowlin β25
Mrs. Angelia Malbrough and Mr. Peter Bowlin
In Memory of Sister Carolyn Brady CSJ β48
Aimee Kleinpeter Klimczak
In Memory of Mrs. Eloise Eiswirth Braud β44
Mr. and Mrs. Floyd L. Braud
Mr. and Mrs. Carroll J. Landry III
In Honor of Ms. Bella Bridgewater β25
Mr. and Mrs. Lionel Smith
In Honor of Ms. Ainsley Brignac β25
Mr. and Mrs. Kyle E. Brignac
Ms. Maryanna Pelkowski
In Memory of Mrs. Katherine Brooks Broussard β40
Mr. and Mrs. Jim Altazan
In Memory of Mrs. Mary Carrie Kleinpeter Broussard β38
Mrs. Carrie Berry
In Honor of Ms. Caroline Brown β27
Ms. Celia Brown
Mr. and Mrs. Douglas L. Villien Sr.
In Memory of Ms. Evelyn Brown
Ms. Sept Brown
In Honor of Ms. Layla Brown β27
Mr. and Mrs. Larry Murray
In Honor of Mrs. Melissa Heck Brown β94 Hayden Brown
Mrs. Peggy Heck
In Memory of Mrs. Tal Bourgeois Broyles β63
Mrs. Amanda Broyles Silvey
In Honor of Mrs. Sarah Catherine LeBlanc Buie β15
Ms. Julia Johnson
Ms. Rachel Saunders
In Honor of Mr. Brad Buras
Ms. Lillian Prescott
In Honor of Ms. Eleanor Burr β25
Pete and Peggy Prosser
In Memory of Mrs. Frances Pender Bynum β67
Mrs. Patricia Sandahl
In Honor of Ms. Lindsay Carlino β02
Ms. Hannah Boudreaux
In Honor of Mrs. Allie Carlock
Ms. Sofia Black
Ms. Kathryn Linton
In Memory of Mrs. Cammie Comeaux Carville β66
Mrs. Jennifer Carville
In Honor of Ms. Olivia Castelluccio β20
Mr. and Mrs. Peter P. Castelluccio Jr.
In Honor of Ms. Simone Castelluccio β23
Mr. and Mrs. Peter P. Castelluccio Jr.
In Honor of Ms. Ava Cerise β25
Cindy Cerise
Mr. and Mrs. Paul Cerise
In Honor of the Class of 1963
Jan Capdevielle Gravolet
In Honor of the Class of 1994
Mrs. Melissa Brown
Mrs. Jennifer VanZandt
In Honor of the Class of 1996
Mr. and Mrs. Travis Teague
In Honor of the Class of 2007
Mr. and Mrs. Cody Arceneaux
In Honor of Ms. Abagail Cobb β25
Ms. Michelle Knobloch
Mr. and Mrs. Scott Miller
In Honor of Ms. Camille Coco β25
Mr. and Mrs. Phillip Frazier
In Honor of Mrs. Michele McDaniel Coco β90
Mrs. Renee Hill
In Honor of Ms. Ella Kate Cole β27
Mrs. Shelly Cole
In Honor of Mrs. Mary Kay Hannaman Burns Collins β58
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph C. Mellott
In Honor of Ms. Evie Adele Comeaux β26
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Dimm
In Honor of Ms. Emma Clare Coniglio β23
Anonymous donor
In Honor of Mrs. Wendy Coniglio
Mrs. Cydney Morris
In Memory of Mr. Andrew Cormier
Mrs. Mattie Pourciau Garza
In Memory of Amy Counce β75
Mr. and Mrs. James Mittica
In Honor of Caroline Magee Couvillion β16
Mr. and Mrs. David L. Magee Jr. Anonymous donor
In Memory of Ms. Mary Kate Crawford
Mr. and Ms. Robert J. Crawford
In Honor of Mrs. Julie Holliday Crifasi β85
Mrs. Jennifer Holliday Tompkins
In Honor of Ms. Susana Cuadra β23
Ms. Mariana Cuadra
In Memory of Anthony and Mary
Lee Culotta
Mrs. Dyra Culotta Hughes
In Honor of Ms. Michelle Daigle β25
Mr. and Mrs. Tommy Daigle
Mr. and Mrs. Wilfred Daigle
In Honor of Ms. Zoe Davidson β25
Mr. and Mrs. Roger Lanier
In Honor of Mrs. Glynis Davis
Lindsay Carlino
Megan St. Germain Ponseti
In Honor of Mrs. Ashley Duhon Deal β88
Mrs. Ashley Ledet
In Honor of Ms. Anna Camille deBlieux β25
Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Albarado
In Honor of Ms. Ellie DeCarlo β24
Mr. and Mrs. David M. DeCarlo
In Honor of Ms. Lily DeCarlo β26
Mr. and Mrs. David M. DeCarlo
In Honor of Ms. Lauren Delafield β25
Mr. and Mrs. Homer B. Delafield
In Memory of Mr. and Mrs. Phillip Derozan Jr.
Mrs. Kristin Nevels Clarkson
In Honor of Ms. Hannah Deshotel β25
Mrs. Aimee Deshotel
In Honor of Ms. Karen Douet
Ms. Rachael Pisciotta
Anonymous donor
In Honor of Mrs. Cindy Downs
Ms. Elaine Reine
In Honor of Ms. Stephanie A. Duell β97
Ms. Courtney Malbrue
In Honor of Mrs. Amie Martinez Duke β16
Ms. Dina Dow
In Honor of Mrs. Adrianne Chustz Duval β00
Brian and Linda Chustz
In Honor of Mrs. Rachel Eddlestone
Ms. Sofia Dodd
In Honor of Mrs. Mary Beth Elfert
Mrs. Christina Dudley
In Honor of Ms. Sara Ryan Elliott β25
Mr. and Mrs. Aldon R. Elliott
Ms. Emily Littlefield
In Honor of Mrs. Nancy Hannaman Endom β61
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph C. Mellott
In Memory of Mr. Wallace Eversberg
Ms. Anna Camille Eagleton
In Honor of Ms. Elaina Ewen β28
Mr. and Mrs. Mitch P. Ewen
In Honor of Ms. Destiny Fagane β25
Dr. and Mrs. Pressley L. Campbell
In Honor of Ms. Ella Kate Falgoust β25
Mr. and Mrs. Scott P. Falgoust
In Honor of Ms. Riley Falgoust β27
Mr. and Mrs. Scott P. Falgoust
In Honor of Ms. Stephanie Faucette β05
Ms. Zaira Mayeux
Anonymous donor
In Honor of Ms. Haley Faucheux β25
Mr. and Mrs. Arcade J. Faucheux
In Honor of Ms. Alysse Fee β25
Ms. Tara Guidry
In Memory of Janet and Justin Fernandez
Mr. and Mrs. Bertell Cook
In Honor of Kris and Patricia Fernandez
Mr. and Mrs. Bertell Cook
In Honor of Claire Cowan For β91
Dr. and Mrs. John B. Cowan
In Honor of Mrs. Jen Menville Fontaine β04
Ms. Cora Barhorst
Mr. John Broussard and Mrs. Susan Menville Broussard
Ms. Lily May
Mr. and Mrs. Scott F. Roussel
In Honor of Ms. Elizabeth Fontenot Fallon Gerald Tullier
In Honor of Mrs. Jennifer Thistlethwaite Troutman β00
Dr. and Mrs. Patrick F. Thistlethwaite
In Memory of Mr. Charles E. Tullier
Mr. Devin Tullier
In Memory of Mrs. Marie Bourg Tullier β46
Mr. Devin Tullier
In Memory of Mr. Allen Tuten
Maradith and Ryan Boone
In Memory of Mrs. Susan Morrow
Tuttle β78
Aimee Kleinpeter Klimczak
In Honor of Ms. Olivia Vaccaro
Ms. Maria Lundin
In Memory of Dr. Jim Votruba
Mr. and Mrs. Christopher L. Boggs
In Honor of Ms. Kate Waguespack β25
Mr. and Mrs. Jess J. Waguespack
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas P. Waguespack
In Honor of Mrs. Rachel Drago Wall β85
Mrs. Claire Bahlinger
Mrs. Sharon Kelley Brown
Cooleyβs Anemia Foundation
Ms. Elaine Daniels
Drs. Gary and Allyson Mayeux
Phyllis Sproul
In Honor of Ms. Avery Watson β26
Ms. Mary Doerner
In Honor of Elizabeth Cowan Wells β99
Dr. and Mrs. John B. Cowan
In Memory of Ms. Jennifer R. Wickboldt β94
Mrs. Patricia Pederson Vasser
In Memory of Rachael Lynn Willis β00
Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Danna
In Honor of Mr. and Mrs. Dwayne A. Wilson
Ms. Alyssa Wilson
In Memory of Mrs. Marilyn Polk Wittorf β67
Mrs. Beth Cannon
In Memory of Mrs. Janet Davis Wolf β67
Mrs. Beth Cannon
In Memory of Mr. Bryan Woodward
Mrs. Denise Woodward
In Memory of Mr. Buddy Woodward
Mrs. Denise Woodward
In Memory of Mrs. Pam Fleniken Yoder
Mr. and Mrs. Layne Dodd
In Honor of Mrs. Jackie Zeller
Ms. Khai Williams-Smith
In Honor of Ms. Emery Zeringue β25
Mr. and Mrs. Steve Thomas
In Honor of Ms. Hannah Grace
WEDDINGS
β15 Noelle Gueho to George Kocsis 4/2/2025
β15 Kelly McDuff to Garrison Grant 4/26/2025
BIRTHS
β03 Allison Krouse Manalac: son, Rafe Emery, born 1/24/2025
β03 Katherine Raia Whittaker: daughter, Anna Katherine, born 9/27/2024 β15 Olivia Robb Magee: son, Wyndham Magee, born 11/13/2024
β15 Gabriela Castillo White: daughter, Sofia Eloise, born 12/6/2024
IN MEMORIAM
We make a sincere effort to publish any close alumnae family connections with the names of the deceased. With more than 11,000 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 May 2, 2025.
Wanda Persac Annison β43
Humberto Alfonso Arriaga Jr. Brother of Lydia Arriaga β75
Lollie Ourso Bergeron β45
Sister of Lois Ourso Taylor β46 and Patricia Ourso Bourg β64
Aunt of Christine Fauveau β71, Rebecca Ourso Haan β77 and Kelly Sword Hurtado β81
Great-aunt of Sarah Ourso Nix β00, Eleanor Ourso Patout β04, Alexandra Hurtado McCall β05 and Daniela Hurtado β13
P. Michael Berthelot
Father of Preston Alexis Berthelot β23
Edith Mae Fryoux Boudreaux β41
Daughter of Edith Paille Fryoux 1914
Sister of Katherine Fryoux Mackay β37 (dec.), Clothilde Fryoux Knight β39 (dec.), Joyce Fryoux Jackson β43 (dec.), Beverly Fryoux Jackson β51 and Billie Fryoux Kuylen β53
Grandmother of Charlene Boudreaux Borne β96
Donna Wentworth Brian
Mother of Aynsley Brian Scheuermann β09
Aunt of Julie Elise Olinde β03, Victoria Brian Simmons β11 and Madeline Olinde β13
Cecil Brown
Grandfather of Christina Ileana Dalmau β17 and Marie Claire Dalmau β19
Samuel Wayne DiVincenti Sr.
Father of Stacy DiVincenti β95
Brother of Phyllis DiVincenti Draughon β71, Dorothy DiVincenti Smith β72, Ginny DiVincenti β75 and LuAnn DiVincenti Prejean β76
Uncle of Christina DiVincenti OβBrien β99
Great-uncle of Mackenzie Maria OβBrien β25 and Lucy Isabella OβBrien β27
Melissa Baudin Gannuch
Mother of Ella Kathryn Gannuch β23
Robert Andrew Germany
Grandfather of Kathryn Jakuback Burke β10
William K. Gremillion Jr.
Husband of Janet Raymond Gremillion β69
Father of Sarah Gremillion Bunch β05
Brother of Susan Gremillion Schott β65
Robert Guidry
Grandfather of Alysse Gabrielle Fee β25
Jennifer Paige Harelson
Sister of Christine Harelson Pizzolato β11 and Sydney Ray Harelson β13
Niece of Genena Broussard Harelson β85 (dec.)
Great-granddaughter of Muryl Poirier Buhler β35 (dec.)
Great-niece of Dot Poirier Buhler β33
Robert Herrington
Father of Robin Herrington Nagdeman β05
Adele LeBlanc Heuvel
Mother of Gretchen Heuvel Macaluso β76
Grandmother of Emily Macaluso Moskau β09
Patricia Pope Laenger
Mother of Elizabeth Laenger Hasenkampf β94
Eva Summers Marks
Mother of Melissa Marks Hoffmann β85 and Colleen Marks Andrews β88
Frank R. McLavy Jr.
Son of Corinne Heroman McLavy β37 (dec.)
Great-uncle of Emma Frances Neyland β23
Jodi Breecher Pipes
Mother of Ellison Elise Pipes β27
Raymond G. Post Jr.
Father of Wendy Post Martin β89
Brother of Antoinette Post β61
Gene Max Richards
Father of Meg Gerald, SJA staff member
Grandfather of Rainey Elizabeth Gerald β13 and Fallon Gerald Tullier β16
Nina Rose Carazo Snapp β58 (alum by choice)
Mother of Morgan Snapp Dupas β14
Melba Staub
Mother of Susan Staub β75 and Gretchen Staub Bugeaud β80