THE URSU.LINES
THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF URSULINE ACADEMY OF NEW ORLEANS
On the Cover: Best friends Ruby (left) and Jordyn (right) enjoyed the beautiful weather during independent reading time in the Academy courtyard.
Jordyn and her younger sister Joy are the granddaughters of Rhesa Ortique McDonald '66, 2023 Distinguished Alumna, and one of three trailblazing women who integrated Ursuline in 1962.
STAFF AND CONTRIBUTORS
Academy President
Laurie Leiva
K – 12 Principal
Sue Heidel ’85
Director of Early Childhood
Amanda Langley Cabral
Director of Institutional Advancement
Mariah Weinand
Director of Mission Integration
Christy Jackson Zurcher ’00
Associate Director of Alumnae Relations
Maria Merchan Weidenbacher ’05
Director of Enrollment Management
Kate Uhle
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS AND WRITERS
Davillier Photography
Meredith Becker ’26
Kevin Gunn
Uyen Yi
LAYOUT AND DESIGN
Lori Monahan Borden ’88
Lori Monahan Borden Design, LLC
PRESIDENT’S PERSPECTIVE
Dear Alumnae and Academy Friends,
I hope this is the first of many issues of the The Ursu.Lines in which I will have the opportunity to share the latest news from Ursuline Academy and celebrate the accomplishments of our students and alumnae.
My term as President began during the slower-paced days of the summer break. The campus was not quiet during the summer as construction crews were on campus completing restoration and repair work on the roof and many of the classrooms in the main building. The pace was slower and it allowed me time to begin learning about the history and traditions of Ursuline Academy.
August brought the return of students to campus, and the construction noise has been replaced with the sounds of students laughing and learning.
We were fortunate to have Sr. Diane Fulgenzi, OSU, with us as she facilitated a workshop to help prepare faculty and staff for the year ahead. Sr. Diane shared her definition of legacy: “interconnection across time, with a need for those who have come before us and a responsibility to those who come after us.” That definition of legacy is helping to guide and shape the work of the Academy this year as we rely on the connections and responsibilities we have to each other.
St. Angela was described as someone who brought light to others and that description inspires our Academy theme for the 298th year of education, “Be the Light.” The stories highlighted here in this issue of The Ursu.Lines illustrate just a few of the many ways in which our students and alumnae are sharing the light of God’s love through their efforts here on campus and out in the community.
I am grateful that I have had the opportunity to meet some of you and I look forward to meeting more of you at upcoming events on campus like La F´ête and Homecoming.
Yours in the spirit of Serviam,
Did you know?
Sr. Diane Fulgenzi is the author of The Ursuline Prayer?
THE URSULINE PRAYER
Gracious God, we come before you and ask for your blessing. Give us the grace to model the Ursuline values of service, courtesy, loyalty, and courage by attitude and action. Guide us, that in the spirit of St. Angela, our relationships with others may be rooted in reverence, respect, and loving kindness. Let deep faith, trust, and joy give energy to our efforts as we seek to serve you and your people with a generous and open heart. Grant this in Jesus’ name and through the intercession of Saint Angela.
The weather was picture-perfect for the Traditions Mass on Sunday, September 8, 2024. We gathered as a community to celebrate legacy families who have sent multiple generations of students to Ursuline and welcomed new families to the Academy and the tradition of Ursuline education. During the Installation Ceremony, President Leiva was presented with symbols of the Academy from different community representatives. We all celebrated in the courtyard with beignets afterward.
2024 Centennial Celebration
clergy, the Ursuline community, and pupils went in procession from the temporary Chapel….There took place an impressive ceremony of blessing the building, and His Grace hung up a large Crucifix to serve as a memorial of the blessing. All, except the Religious, went out to the lawn in front of the main building in whose spacious vestibule had been erected an altar, on which was placed the Statue of Our Lady of Prompt Succor. Here His Grace celebrated Pontifical Mass, at which a multitude of pious worshipers assisted.”
The plans had been drawn for the Shrine in 1908 and the foundations of the Church had been laid at the same time as those of the Convent, but “its erection could not begin until the money requisite to defray the expenses would be guaranteed.” The Archbishop made an appeal to “the pious generosity of the faithful, not only in the City but throughout the State, to unite in helping to realize [his] wish for the Votive Shrine to be a tribute of loving gratitude to the special Patroness of Louisiana.” Despite
contributing to the erection of a magnificent shrine in her honor,” funding for the construction of the Votive Shrine was slow to arrive.
In February 1921, Director of the Archconfraternity of Our Lady of Prompt Succor and dear friend of the Ursulines, the Very Reverend Canon Racine resigned his charge of the Baton Rouge Deanery to return to New Orleans “…in order to labor all the more strenuously for the realization of his ardent desire of seeing the Votive Shrine built and dedicated to the greater glory of God and to the honor of Our Lady of Prompt Succor. After years of prayer and hope that Our Lady’s Shrine would be built, on March 17, 1922, the Ursulines were filled with inexpressible joy upon learning that a donation of $100,000 was made by Mrs. Louise Carroll Thomas, “whose pious generosity has gladdened many hearts, and laid up for herself treasures in Heaven.”
“At the official opening of Our Lady of Prompt Succor’s great annual novena,
the national votive shrine of our lady of prompt succor
December 30, 1923, Her Miraculous Statue was transferred from the hall, which had since 1912 served as a temporary chapel, to the Votive Shrine in whose Sanctuary it was lovingly enthroned by the Notre Dame students, escorted by a delegation of Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus in full regalia. Crowds assembled on the front lawns and awaited the awe-inspiring procession which began from the temporary chapel and proceeded down State Street to the Shrine singing the Litany of Saints. On the exact spot reserved for the erection of the Main Altar, the crowned statue of Our Lady of Prompt Succor was placed.”
The Shrine was officially dedicated on January 6, 1924, and was consecrated on January 8, 1928, in conjunction with the bicentennial celebration of the arrival of the Ursulines to New Orleans. During that same year, the Holy See approved and confirmed the naming of Our Lady of Prompt Succor as the Principal Patroness of the City of New Orleans and the State of Louisiana.
– Ursuline Convent Archive New Orleans
Celebrating Sr. Carolyn’s Service & Kaki Smith’s Appointment as First Lay Director
A centennial anniversary isn’t the only recent history The National Votive Shrine of Our Lady of Prompt Succor has made. In July 2023, Our Lady’s Shrine welcomed its first lay director, Ursuline Academy alumna, Kaki Pittman Smith ’76. The Shrine first became a special part of Kaki’s life when she entered Ursuline’s Kindergarten in 1963. After high school graduation, Kaki was active in the Alumnae Association and continued her involvement from 1990 through 2010 while an Ursuline parent. It has only deepened since. When asked about her new role, Kaki said “It is an honor to be the first lay director and have the trust and support of the Shrine Board and the Ursuline Sisters. There’s something special about entering the Shrine first thing in the morning when all the lights are down. The Shrine has always brought me peace. I am blessed to return after so many years and help
provide that same peace to all who enter this sacred space.”
Kaki acknowledges that her success as the first lay director is largely due to the support of Sr. Carolyn Marie Brockland, OSU, and the longtime staff and community. Sr. Carolyn, now Shrine Director Emerita, has served both the Shrine and the Academy in various capacities throughout the years. When asked about her service to the Shrine, Sr. Carolyn said: “I consider it a great privilege to be here and serve in such a historic and sacred place.”
While Sr. Carolyn is an alumna of Ursuline Academy in St. Louis, she considers New Orleans her second home as she has been here longer than anywhere else. And it was here that Sr. Carolyn celebrated so many memorable life events - her final vows in 1965 and her 50th and 60th Jubilees - with her 65th taking place in January 2025. Sr. Carolyn began her time in New Orleans as a teacher from 1964-1969. She then served as high school principal from 19821993, Prioress from 2004-2010, and Shrine Director from 20152023. She currently assists in the Sacristy and with liturgies and other special Shrine celebrations.
The most exciting of these recent celebrations are the Shrine’s centennial events. With Sr. Carolyn and the Shrine Board, Kaki has led Our Lady’s Shrine through a year-long centennial celebration with special events roughly every six weeks. The culmination of this historical celebration will be the Feast of Our Lady of Prompt Succor on January 8, 2025. Kaki’s outlook for 2025 is to review these previous events and see which they would like to continue – ensuring that Our Lady’s Shrine continues to thrive as a center of devotion to the patroness of our city and state.
URSULINE’S STEM FOR OTHERS CLASS BUILDS SAILS FOR HAITI
By Kevin Gunn
Ursuline Academy is proud to offer a class called STEM for Others, which teaches STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) through a hands-on, service learning project that ties classroom curriculum to service.
For the past two years, the class has partnered with Community Sailing New Orleans and Sails for Sustenance, a non profit organization that collects used sails in the United States and ships them to Haiti to be used by Haitian fishermen who largely rely on sails to power their boats. Sails for Sustenance has had an enormous impact on the lives of the fishermen, but we can do better than giving the fishermen sails that are already near the end of their useful lives. There is also another big problem – the sails they receive are usually made out of petrochemical products, which contribute to the plastic pollution in the Haitian fisheries when they break down.
Over the course of a school year, Ursuline students research, design, and build sustainable sails to help the environment and subsistence fishermen in Haiti. After studying the causes and effects of plastic pollution in the oceans, and the history, economy, and daily lives of Haitian fishermen, Ursuline Academy students began learning about how sails are made and work
so they can develop a solution. Students complete prototype mainsails that are tested in the sailboats at Community Sailing New Orleans.
One sail was made from cotton duck canvas, which is biodegradable. Another prototype was made from Top Gun fabric. While the Top Gun fabric is synthetic and more commonly used for boat covers, it is UV resistant, so it should last significantly longer than traditional sail materials such as dacron. Both sails worked great! The class then held a video conference with a Haitian Fisherman to get his input before selecting the fabric to build him a sail that will be sustainable. After talking with the fisherman, the class determined that neither fabric would fit the needs of the fisherman. The cotton absorbed too much water, and the Top Gun was too heavy. The fishermen carry their sails home every day so they don’t get stolen off the boat. As a result, the class built the final
sails out of dacron, the typical fabric used in modern sails. While the class was hoping to use either cotton or Top Gun, meeting the needs of the end user was most important. New dacron sails are still a positive for the environment and the fishermen as they will last significantly longer than old donated used sails.
At the conclusion of the class, students deliver their final sails to Patrick Beliard, who heads the Haiti Sailing Cup. The sails have been used by Haitian fishermen to sail into deeper waters and catch more fish for their families, and they will also be used in the annual Haiti Sailing Cup regatta!
This school year, the STEM for Others class will be working with Living Waters for the World to build water filtrations systems in order to get clean water to two communities in need.
Cards.” The students chose a step or slogan of the program and created a painting as a visual representation of what it means to them. They used hand lettering to describe the step in a separate piece. Once completed, both pieces were printed to create a single card. There were a total of 60 cards per deck. There were a total of 80 decks
appreciated - a great tool for recovery.”
Ursuline's "Aspirational Artists" were named Bridge House/Grace House 2023 Volunteer of the Year!
The Aspirational Art that we have created has been made possible by a service learning grant from the Joe W. and Dorothy Dorsett Brown Foundation. The grant has paid for professional grade art materials and the printing of the cards. Over the past 3 years, this grant has
For the past five years, Ursuline's Art II class has partnered with Grace House's Residential Substance-Use Disorder Treatment Program for women. Through a service learning grant from the Joe W. & Dorothy Dorsett Brown Foundation, Mrs. Maureen Cremaldi developed a cross-curricular program that teaches students about addiction and the The Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous. A graduate from Grace House meets with our Ursuline Girls and shares her personal experience, strength, and hope with the students. The class then designs artwork based on what they have learned. Ursuline has provided more than 100 pieces of art, both hanging inside and outside the Grace House campus, that illustrate The Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous. Our girls have also created 160 decks of recovery cards for women to use in therapy.
High School Art Teacher
Mrs. Maureen Cremaldi received the STEM Library Lab's inaugural STEMMY Award for her outstanding leadership in their Service Learning Program.
Mrs. Cremaldi was nominated by STEM Library Lab's Service Learning and Outreach Manager Maria Landrum for her willingness to educate other teachers about STEM Library Lab's programming, and for her engagement with her students constructing a Homegrown SLP (service learning project). Ursuline benefits tremendously from the service learning grants funded by the Joe W. & Dorothy Dorsett Brown Foundation.
ON SEPTEMBER 21, 2023, URSULINE
ACADEMY HOSTED A NATURALIZATION CEREMONY WHERE NEARLY 70 IMMIGRANTS WERE SWORN IN AS UNITED STATES CITIZENS.
This ceremony, held in the Academy’s auditorium, doubled as a hands-on learning opportunity for Academy students. As part of the Academy’s commitment to a global and holistic education, 7th grade students from Mrs. Cathryn Walsh's social studies class worked through a cross-curricular project about citizenship. Upon completion of this project, students gained a deeper understanding of the concept of citizenship, its significance, and what it means to actively contribute to one's community. In Mrs. Julia Lavigne's art class, students created congratulatory citizenship-themed clay ornaments that were given to petitioners taking the oath of allegiance. Students prepared questions to ask the newly naturalized citizens and provided pastries tied to their own family traditions/cultures for a small reception following the ceremony.
Present during this ceremony were Judges Michael North, Janis van Meerveld, Greg Guidry, and Senior Judge Ivan Lemelle. A color guard presentation was made by the Brother Martin NJROTC Color Guard, which includes Ursuline girls. The high school choir performed patriotic hymns and Kindergarten through 7th grade students and staff were in attendance.
Former Academy President Karen Jakuback welcomed guests, saying: “It seems so appropriate to us in the Ursuline community that this ceremony should take place here at Ursuline Academy. The Ursuline Sisters first arrived in New Orleans in 1727, almost 50 years before the United States was even formed. Arriving after an arduous five month journey, Sr. Marie Madeleine recounted their journey in a letter to her father, commenting on the awful heat and huge mosquitos they encountered when they arrived in Louisiana in August of 1727. The Ursulines have long been known for their hospitality and aid to those from other countries and diverse backgrounds. They welcomed the Spanish when Louisiana was under Spanish rule. They aided both American and British soldiers wounded during the Battle of New Orleans in the War of 1812. They fought for the oppressed as they taught enslaved African Americans, Native Americans, and free people of color to read and write. The boarding school, housed on this property for many years, was home to many Cuban students who fled a communist regime. As recently as 2010, Ursuline assisted Haitian students after their devastating earthquake. The Ursuline Sisters' legacy of hospitality and embracing all cultures is a legacy they have shared with us, and we continue that tradition today.”
2024 Bethlehem Farm Service Trip
by Meredith Becker, Class of 2026
The first word I’d use to describe my experience at Bethlehem Farm would be indescribable. For the sake of others, I’m going to try to put it into words. Multiple times throughout the trip, Ms. Joubert, our campus minister, warned me, Milena, and Lillian, that once we got back to our homes, nobody would truly understand the experience we had the previous week. They would have to be there to get it. But I have to convey it in some way, so here’s my attempt.
What is Bethlehem Farm? Bethlehem Farm is a fully functioning farm that welcomes volunteers to serve there and in its surrounding community. It is run by the owners, Eric and Colleen, along with various “caretakers” (the people who work there) and the “summer servants” (college students that volunteer as leaders there). While everyone has daily farm chores to keep the place operating, the main service is their home repair program. These homes belong to people who can not afford to pay for the standard construction company, but are trusted to pay the farm back for the materials used. Part of the farm’s mission is to build connections within their community, so
they do not focus merely on physical service. The service trip we took part in was pretty special because it involved four Ursuline schools (Ursuline New Orleans, Ursuline Dallas, Ursuline Dedham, and Ursuline St. Louis) and another all-girls Catholic school, Merion Mercy Academy in Pennsylvania. At the farm, we learned about their four pillars: prayer, simplicity, community, and service. Although these pillars may seem like some sort of suggestion on how they live, it was truly the way of life on the farm in every aspect of each day.
Prayer, because each morning and evening we all prayed together, was often in a creative form like art, song, discussions, or meditation but still focused on scripture and what we can learn from it. At some point, each work crew got to lead their own prayer, and we all experienced an outdoor
Eucharistic service on Monday. Prayer was present throughout the day in not only the group prayers before starting work or enjoying meals, but also in the intentional way of life that serves God more than anyone else. While you are doing service, you must learn to forget about your own wants, and to think about the other person and the reason why you are doing service as a Catholic. One of the prayers was very memorable to me because it was about love, in the way that it relates to what we were doing. We did service because as humans we want to love our community, but also because as Christians we are called to love our neighbors.
The aspect of simplicity was perhaps what was most unique about Bethlehem Farm. At first it seemed like it would be really uncomfortable to give up frequent showers, our phones, makeup,
and the junk foods we are used to eating. Once we fully understood why simplicity was so important there, we wanted to participate in the challenge of giving up some things that give us comfort. Bethlehem Farm receives its water from a well, which unfortunately could dry up in the future due to climate change. That’s why when you arrive, you are asked to limit yourself to 10 gallons of water per week. Surprisingly, this was not as difficult as it seemed it would be, because for a thorough bucket shower all you really needed was about two gallons of water, which was half of a bucket. There may have been two or three people who took regular showers, but most of us chose to just take bucket showers because they gave you much more time to wash up, and it was an overall surprisingly pleasant experience. Besides conserving water, we also conserved electricity during an electricity fast on Thursday night. We were taught that many energy sources have negative effects on the environment because of the way they are processed and transported. Not only does the farm make an effort to conserve water and electricity, but they make an effort to feed everyone there sustainably, using fresh ingredients that are mostly straight from the farm or neighboring farms they have a relationship with. Although it clearly takes a lot of effort to create such clean and environmentally friendly meals, their efforts pay off because of just how nutritious and palatable the meals were. With homemade sandwich bread, fresh lettuce and kale from the farm’s greenhouse, eggs from their own and nearby farms’ chickens, homemade yogurt and granola, and much more homemade goodness, we were all very pleased with the food. It felt like just a bonus that we knew it was healthy. At each meal, we were encouraged to take only what we knew we would eat, and to come back for seconds if we wanted. If we still had something left on our plate, it would all be composted and returned back to the garden eventually, like one big cycle of nourishment for both us and our planet.
Not having our phones for a week was a unique experience that really helped elevate the trip to what it was. At first it was uncomfortable to not be able to contact our parents or check the time (we also were encouraged to take off any
watches), but once we got used to it, it enabled us to have a sense of freedom from the confines of time and constant contact with the rest of the world. We were able to forge connections with other people that may have never happened if we were all connected to our phones. Milena elaborates, “I intend to implement the practice of being away from my phone as much as possible. I think that the reason I was able to connect on such a deep level to so many people was because all of us were living in the moment constantly, eager to learn more about each other.” We were also encouraged to leave unnecessary beauty products at home, which includes makeup, hair straighteners, curlers, etc., to enjoy what God has already given us, to leave our vanity at home, and take part in a lifestyle of environmental consciousness. Once again, this was uncomfortable at first, but gave us a sense of freedom from constantly worrying about ourselves and what we looked like. Altogether, the experience of sustainability was one that taught us a lot about how our living can be intentional, rather than ignorant.
Another striking facet of the farm’s nature is its community. The moment you get there, the caretakers, owners, and summer servants welcome you with open arms. Lillian explains,
“Bethlehem Farm is such a special place because of the pure love and joy that every person puts into every task that they do. There is
so much time and care that goes into everything that is done at the farm and the love of everyone there can be constantly seen through this.”
At first nobody knew each other, but by Monday evening it was like we were all part of a really big family. By the time we left, it was hard to believe that we may never see the other girls, chaperones, caretakers, and summer servants again.
One of my favorite moments when I could really feel our community was Friday night when we all sat around a campfire and sang songs together while two summer servants played guitar and Milena played the ukulele. The patience, wisdom, and determination of the caretakers and summer servants was astounding. Many of us made mistakes on the work sites, but not once did a caretaker or summer servant get frustrated. They were just so grateful and happy to share this experience with us, and went out of their way to make sure that we all felt welcome in their community. Their community is not just Bethlehem Farm, though, but it is also the people nearby. Every Tuesday night at the farm is community night, where they invite people they know from the community (including people in the home repair program) to eat dinner with them and the volunteers. Milena explains why the highlight of the trip for her was community night. “I met so many new people that I would’ve never expected to have things in common with. Neighbors from miles away brought their favorite homemade dishes and loving families to contribute to a night of fun, community, and celebration.” The way the farm brought people together made us realize what a positive impact it has on its community.
Last but absolutely not least is the pillar of service. The daily routine of being at the farm is packed with service, no matter what’s on the schedule for your crew that day. But part of what makes the farm so special, Milena states, “was the hard work and dedication everyone showed. We would all wake up early, ready to get the day started with hard work and a good attitude…no
matter what, each job was done to its fullest and everyone had a blast while doing it.” On Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, each crew was assigned to either home crew (cooking and cleaning at home), farm crew (helping out with the plants on the farm), or a work site (for home repair). If you are assigned to home crew, you do the dishes of the previous night, make breakfast in the morning, pack and unpack lunches for the volunteers going to worksites, clean around the house, plan prayer, and make dinner. Although this work is not about making major home repairs, working on home crew is serving those who serve. This is a major and necessary part of service. Farm crew is similar in the sense that it’s helping keep the farm alive, to raise the nutritious food that will feed volunteers of the future. Going to the worksites is what serves those in the community who are less fortunate. Experiencing the gratitude of the people in the home repair program was also something that made going to Bethlehem Farm worth it. One woman I did work for was so gracious and hospitable that she sat down and talked with us as we ate our lunch at her table, and she even gave us fruit and jam. Lillian also enjoyed this aspect of the trip, as she states, “A highlight of the trip for me was being able to speak to the people of West Virginia, hearing their real stories, and being able to help them directly by repairing their homes. It showed a level of love that extended to a point that words just can't attain.” The gratitude we were shown and the service we took part in taught us how important it is to serve your community, and how much love service brings about.
The truth about Bethlehem Farm is that it not only challenges you, rewards you, and nurtures you, but it teaches you.
The knowledge we were able to absorb from this trip is immeasurable. We acclimated to the atmosphere at the farm, and when we got home, saw how much different it is, which was similar to how we felt when we arrived at the farm. We’ve come to the realization that there is so much that we can live without, and so much we can do about problems like waste, climate change, and poverty. But we’ve also learned about ourselves. I, for one, learned how much you can adapt into a new place and find that it feels like home within a day or two if there’s enough love in the community. The loving atmosphere of Bethlehem Farm and its community really made me realize how much love there is in the world, and how showing love and hospitality towards other people is one of the greatest gifts you can give. The people on the farm and the people in its community, including the people we served, gave us this gift, and it really left an impact on me. This was not the only lesson I learned, but perhaps the most prominent.
When asked the biggest lesson she learned, Milena responded, “...how to show love and give gratitude in everything that I do. While working on the worksites throughout West Virginia, we met so many new people. What made these encounters so special was the fact that I was able to completely prioritize the individual and not take for granted each conversation that I had with each person.”
Lillian replied, “In my time at Bethlehem Farm I learned how to appreciate the little things…many caretakers showed us how there was care and value in every plant and weed and every person and situation we encountered.” She also stated that, “I have learned that I am capable of more than I think. In doing constant work for others every day, I found myself being more selfless and, as a result, pushing myself for the people we were working for.” Being at the farm was so much more than just giving our service and labor; they welcomed us into their community and gave back to us far more than we could ever give to them. The experience was unforgettable, but memories are fleeting. The lessons learned will never leave us.
Ursuline Academy of New Orleans, founded in 1727, conducted its 297th commencement exercise on May 18, 2024, in the school’s auditorium. Dr. Elma Ireland LeDoux, an Ursuline graduate of 1973, delivered the commencement address. LeDoux is a physician specializing in cardiovascular disease, who also serves as the Associate Dean for Admissions and Student Affairs at Tulane University School of Medicine.
The ceremony began with an invocation by Sister Regina Marie Fronmüller, OSU. Ursuline Academy’s Dean of Students, Andrea Estavan, served as Mistress of Ceremonies, while Principal Suzanne Heidel and Former Academy President Dr. Karen Jakuback presented awards and diplomas to the graduating seniors.
The valedictorian was Phoenix James Wilson, the daughter of Dr. Christy Valentine Theard '92 and Saton Wilson. Wilson participated in multiple District Literary Rallies and went to State Literary Rally for advanced math. She participated in National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, Operation Donation, Spanish Club, and Diversity of Women Club. She attended NOCCA half-day in the Classical Vocal program for three years and sang the National Anthem for two New Orleans Saints games and two New Orleans Pelicans games, with her first Saints performance occurring when she was only 13 years old. She is attending Berklee College of Music on a full tuition scholarship and is majoring in songwriting with a focus in performance.
The salutatorian was Evangeline Claire Barras, the daughter of Renée and Ian Barras. Barras participated in multiple District Literary Rallies and went to State Literary Rally for Psychology. Barras was a captain of the Ursuline Sailing Team, where she led the team to victory at the 2024 SEISA Girls Championship. She was also a member of the National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, and the Audubon Zoo volunteer program. In addition to excelling academically, Barras has given over 100 hours of service each year throughout her five years of high school. She is attending Virginia Tech University and is majoring in Psychology.
The following students were ranked, along with the valedictorian and salutatorian, in the top ten of the graduating class: Linda R. Bourgeois, Gabrielle A. Denson, Emerson P. Goodlett, Elisabeth A. Harvey, Hallie M. Liljeberg, Cecelia J. McLellan, Madelyn W. Oster, and Mariah J. Stevens.
The Sr. Damian Aycock, OSU Award is given for outstanding humanitarian service to those inside and outside of Ursuline Academy. It is decided by vote of the senior class. The seniors’ choice for this award was Treazure M. Williams.
The Sedes Sapientiae Medal , which takes its name from one of the titles of Our Lady, “Seat of Wisdom,” is presented annually to the senior whose scholarship, achievement, and loyalty, in the opinion of the faculty, have been consistent and outstanding. This year’s recipient was Gabrielle A. Denson.
The other graduates were Emma K. Boudreaux, Toni R. Brown, Madalyn A. Colopy, Sarah A. Cooper, Payden J. Daul, Grace E. Dietz, Marleigh C. Ditta, Hannah A. Ebey, Sofia H. English, Sophia G. Freeze, Addison E. Grilletta, Zoe A. Holzenthal, Jasmine L. Jackson, Kelsa Marie Jacobs, LaNiyah J. Jones, Mary Margaret Karam, Kelly E. Kives, Isabel R. Lambiet, Kaitlyn E. Laughlin, Sophia C. Laughlin,
Isabella G. Lirette, Kate A. Martin, Phoenix D. Pankey, Ava B. Pelletier, Caitlin L. Phillips, Merriah A. Picou, Julia M. Poché, Leyla R. Rangel, Haley N. Rehm, Alexa M. Rodriguez, Sophia M. Rodriguez, Jai L. Saylor, Cecilia G. Scheets, Layla M. Shollmier, Cecilia M. Skeen, Annie Viola F. Stock-Bordnick, Isabella M. Suarez, and Annalyse M. Vaughn.
Ursuline’s beloved 49 graduates earned a total of $5.8 million in scholarships and completed a total of 10,081 service hours.
Graduates of the Class of 2024 were accepted to the following universities and colleges:
Berklee College of Music
Colorado State University
Delgado Community College
Drexel University
Howard University
Louisiana State University
Loyola University New Orleans
Mississippi State University
North Carolina A&T State University
Paul Mitchell Hair & Beauty School
Penn State University
Prairie View A&M University
Savannah College of Art and Design
Southeastern Louisiana University
Spelman College
Spring Hill College
Trinity University
University of Holy Cross
University of Houston
University of Louisiana Lafayette
University of Mississippi
University of South Alabama
University of Southern Mississippi
Virginia Tech University
Xavier University of Louisiana
LONGEVITY
Longevity awards are presented to graduating seniors who have attended Ursuline Academy since kindergarten or before.
Pictured from left to right: Haley Rehm, Annalyse Vaughn, Evangeline Barras, Sophia Laughlin, Cecelia McLellan, Kaitlyn Laughlin, and Sofia English.
LEGACY
Legacies are graduates who have a mother and/or grandmother who is an alumna of Ursuline.
Pictured (back row, from left): Late Cecelia Leonhard Maestri '39 (Cecelia McLellan), Casey Grace Harvey '94 (Elisabeth Harvey), Erika McConduit '95 (Phoenix Pankey), Amanda Montegut Bourgeois '98 (Rosie Bourgeois), LaYionn Prater '84 (Toni Brown), Dr. Christy Valentine Theard '92 (Phoenix Wilson), Diane Franz Scheets '85 (Cecilia Scheets), Dawn Mauer '93 and Vicki Fonte Oster '66 (Madelyn Oster), and Becca Bertaut Vaughn '91 - not pictured (Annalyse Vaughn).
MADELYN OSTER CLC Medal Recipient
The highest award that Ursuline gives, the CLC Medal, is given in recognition of the senior who, in the opinion of the faculty, has exemplified to an outstanding degree the qualities of courtesy, loyalty, and courage expected of the Ursuline student.
The Sunshine Sister is a new award given by the Ursuline Alumnae Association. The “Sunshine Sister” is a living example of Gabrielle Cozzano’s quote of St. Angela Merici. As her secretary and one of the closest people to her, Cozzano stated: “She was like a sun that gave light to all the others…a fire and a furnace of love which enflamed them.”
GABBY DENSON Sunshine Sister Sedes Sapientiae Award
The Sunshine Sister is chosen by her peers to continue to foster a relationship with the Academy and her class from graduation and beyond. This person promises to remain connected to both her classmates and the Academy and share important news and updates with both. The Sunshine Sister is a true blue Ursuline girl with school and class spirit! She is eager to serve as the contact person and help the Academy’s newest alumnae stay connected to their Alma Mater. The Ursuline Academy Sunshine Sister is friendly, has a positive outlook, and enjoys bringing people together. She creates community wherever she goes!
In addition to the Sunshine Sister Award, Gabby Denson also won the Sedes Sapientiae Award. The Sedes Sapientiae Award, which takes its name from one of the titles of Our Lady, “Seat of Wisdom,” is presented annually to the senior whose scholarship, achievement, and loyalty, in the opinion of the faculty, have been consistent and outstanding.
The award is given to one senior each year. Candidates are judged solely on their love for Ursuline Academy and their honest expression of what the Academy means to them. Below, Evangeline shares what Ursuline means to her.
EVANGELINE BARRAS Cor Unum Award
I’ve memorized the bricks of the red tile porch the same way I’ve memorized each step that leads up to my house. I’ve cried happy tears, sad tears, laughed, made friends, lost friends, and learned more than just math and science within the walls of Ursuline Academy. I have grown up, since Pre-K, surrounded by so much history and have had the honor of following the 296 classes that have graduated before mine.
The rich history and culture of New Orleans makes it such a unique place to live, and Ursuline is an incredibly unique school and community to be a part of. If I had to use one word to describe Ursuline, it would be “life.” After 297+ classes, so many lives have passed through these halls and have been affected in one way or another. Ursuline holds so many memories and stories. While so many lives have been touched by the spirit and life of Ursuline, I’m only going to be talking about my own. The core values of courtesy, loyalty, courage, and Serviam are all a part of who I am today.
The first memory I have of serving others was when my class visited an assisted living and sang songs for them. Since then, it has impacted my life tremendously. In the smallest of ways, I see Serviam shine through. I don’t think twice about helping and caring for others. If there is trash on the ground I’ll pick it up and if someone needs help with their essay, I’ll stay on the phone with them until it’s done. To me, Serviam means I don’t just think and care about myself, but for every part of God’s creation that I come across. I’ve also been impacted by this value in larger ways, as I have earned over 100 service hours every year of high school. I had the opportunity to take a class, called STEM For Others, that incorporated three of my passions–service, conservation, and sailing–by making sails from scratch for subsistence fishermen in Haiti. I would never have gotten an opportunity like that if not for Ursuline.
One of the most vital values that I will take with me into my future is courage. I believe that being at an all-girl institution has given me the courage to be successful in whatever I put my mind to, presently and in the future. Whether it was from learning to ignore the mean girls in middle school, finding my voice in a class debate, or going after my goals in sailing, I’ve been able to find strength and confidence in myself. I’ve been able to accomplish so much at Ursuline and I will leave knowing to never let anyone diminish my worth. This is incredibly important when going into college and beyond, because if I don’t advocate for myself, no one will.
As Ursuline has been such a big part of my life, I can’t imagine abandoning it after graduation. I had the honor of being a part of the interviews for UA’s next president, and I would love to stay involved as an alumna to have a say in matters like these in the future. While my family is moving, I still plan to stay involved and up to date in Ursuline’s news and accomplishments. One goal I have is to be a Rally judge when I’m older. If I am able, I’d love to come back for the annual Sailing team alumna regatta and stay informed about the team, since it means so much to me. Ursuline truly is like a second home and I know that even after I say goodbye at graduation, my heart will forever be here.
TREAZURE WILLIAMS Sr. Damian Aycock, OSU Award
The Sr. Damian Aycock, OSU Award is a humanitarian award, voted on by the senior class, given in memory of Sr. Damian Aycock, an Ursuline Sister and alumna who was also former shrine director, prioress, and principal.
Sr. Damian served as the first president of Ursuline Academy of New Orleans. In regards to her service, she stated: "I am among you, not as one seated at the table, but as one who serves."
Jubilee Classes
'49ers and College
Classes of 1949 | 75 years
Skipperettes of 1974 | 50 years
Sioux of 1999 | 25 years
2024 Alumnae Homecoming Mass & Brunch
Sunday, November 3, 2024
Honoring 2024 Distinguished Alumnae
Gayle Parmelee '48 & Patricia Pittman Barattini '74 and Anniversary Classes
Anniversary Classes
Academy Class of 1944 | 80 years
Sioux of 1954 | 70 years
College Class of 1954 | 70 years
Skipperettes of 1959 | 65 years
Merry Macs of 1964 | 60 years
Sioux of 1969 | 55 years
Merry Macs of 1979 | 45 years
Sioux of 1984 | 40 years
Skipperettes of 1989 | 35 years
We were honored and grateful to have Marvel and Emile Robertson, parents of 1997 Merry Mac, Nia Reneé Robertson, and their family and friends at Homecoming as Academy President Laurie Leiva announced the establishment of an important and necessary scholarship for our deserving students: The Nia Reneé Robertson Spirit of Inclusive Excellence Scholarship.
This scholarship will be awarded annually to one rising 11thgrade student and one rising 12th-grade student, who embrace communication and dialogue in creating an environment of inclusive excellence. Those who were blessed to know Nia recognized her as a passionate and caring young woman who saw the good in everyone and dreamed of a better life for everyone, and we are forever grateful to The Robertsons for their commitment to keeping their daughter’s legacy and light bright here at Ursuline. The Robertsons and Iggie’s House established this scholarship but many of Nia’s classmates have also contributed to the scholarship.
Merry Macs of 1994 | 30 years
Skipperettes of 2004 | 20 years
Merry Macs of 2009 | 15 years
Sioux of 2014 | 10 years
Skipperettes of 2019 | 5 years
Gayle Parmelee '48
Patricia Pittman Barattini '74
Sweehearts of '74
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2024
From entertainment provided by Sugar Shaker, one of the Top 10 Party Bands in the USA, to a bourbon-tasting bar at the Patron Party, sponsored by Hancock Whitney, La Fête 298: Ursuline in Black and White was a night to remember! The Ursuline community dazzled in their black and white formal attire, bid on big-ticket items in our silent auction, enjoyed delicious chargrilled oysters and bananas foster bread pudding, and danced the night away - all in the name of supporting the future of Ursuline.
Ursuline Academy recognized its inaugural Top 10 Under 40 Class in November 2023! These young alumnae not only exemplify the school’s mission but have continued to promote, uplift, and support the Academy in various ways. Through their achievements and commitments, these honorees inspire current students and fellow graduates to strive for excellence and make a difference in their community and the world. Congratulations!
From top, left to right
Christine Alexis '08
Cristy Cali '08
Lacy Davillier '04
Macallister Davis '19
Ingeborg Hyde '17
Caroline MacLaren '19
Gabrielle Stanifer Mangum '02
Annie Krasnow Palmer '10
Olivia Sensenbrenner '18
Courtney Thomas Tobin '06
With years of experience as a teacher in the New Orleans Public Schools, Rhesa McDonald transferred her passion for teaching into a dynamic career as a healthcare champion and civic leader. She is the inspiration behind the Rhesa and Alden McDonald/Sue Ellen and Joseph Canizaro Diabetes Research and Education Center at New Orleans East Hospital and has served in leadership roles with several civic and women’s organizations.
A long-time diabetic, Rhesa was the catalyst for the investment that the McDonald and Canizaro families made to initiate educational and research efforts at New Orleans East Hospital focused on diabetes – one of the primary health risks for African-Americans in the United States.
Rhesa McDonald graduated from Xavier University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education, and over the next 21 years, she taught at W.C. Claiborne, Mary Dora Coghill, and Jean Gordon Elementary Schools.
Married to Liberty Bank CEO, Alden J. McDonald, Jr., for the past 49 years, Rhesa was the founder of New Orleans-based efforts to raise money for the United Negro College Fund (The Ball in the Mall – The Ball on the Belle – The Ball in the City – The Mayor’s Masked Ball), which today contributes over a million dollars a year to our local HBCU’s Dillard and Xavier Universities.
She is a former Vice President of the New Orleans Chapter of the Links. Rhesa served on the board of Ursuline Academy where she was one of the first AfricanAmerican students to attend. She is also a former board member of the Contemporary Arts Center and one of the founders of the John T. Scott Guild at CAC. Rhesa served on the board of the Preservation Resource Center and has chaired their “Ladies in Red” fundraising event. She is an Advisory Board member of the LSU Psychiatry Board.
In 2018, Rhesa was honored by the Crescent City Chapter of the Links as one of their Champions of Change. In 2019, Rhesa received the Order of St. Louis IX Medallion in recognition of years of service to the Catholic Church in the Archdiocese of New Orleans.
Rhesa is the daughter of civil rights leaders, the late Louisiana Supreme Court Justice Revius Ortique and Miriam Ortique. With a very active civic life, Rhesa found the time to raise and nurture a family of achievers. Her daughter Heidi (Marcus) is completing her doctoral studies in higher education in Texas. Her older son “Chip” (Autumn) is a cardiologist in Oakland, California, and her younger son Todd (Crystal) is the new President of Liberty Bank and Trust Company taking over from Alden who had served in that capacity for 50 years. Rhesa, an only child, has eight grandchildren.
Ursuline Academy of New Orleans is proud to call Rhesa Ortique McDonald '66 a Distinguished Alumna.
MIRACLES
“Among the good and necessary means that God has granted me, you are one of the most important.”
– St. Angela Merici
2 AJ AND CHARLOTTE FARRUGIA AKINKUGBE ’04 a daughter, OLUWADARA SIMIAKINKUGBE
3 BRANDON AND GABBY ANGELO ALRED ’04 a son, OLIVER AMBROSE
4 TRIPP AND KELLY MCNEIL JONES ’05 a daughter, CORINNE CLAIRE
5 ALEX AND LEILA LEBOYD OLIVIER ’05 a daughter, CORINNE MADLYN
6 WALT AND SPRING RICHARDSON-PERRY ’05 a daughter, WYNTER ELIZABETH
7
SAMIRA JONES MARIGNY ’06 a son, LANGSTON ANDREW
11 KENNETH AND KELLEY RANDAZZO SCHLITT ’06 daughters, PHILIPPA EVELYN AND OPHELIA EDITH
12 RYAN AND KATHERINE CANSECO HOLSTEIN ’09 a daughter, HADLEY JANE
13 GRANT AND TAYLOR DORNIER LACOUR ’09 a daughter, KATHERINE EILEEN
14 BEAU AND BROOKE RAFIDI MOTHE ’09 a daughter, BENTLEY BLAKE
15 GUY AND CHARLOTTE MCLOUGHLIN GUINOT ’11 a daughter, MARY KATE
16 BRANDON AND SARAH STUCKEY MONTALBANO ’11 a son, WESLEY JUDE
17 ROSS AND MIRANDA PICOU MUDGE ’12 a daughter, ARIA MAE
18 LUCCHESE BARRETT AND BLAIR JONES JOYNER ’16 a daughter, BRIAR NICOLE
19 MICHAEL AND ABBE TASSIN LANGTEAU ’16 a son, CHARLES JOSEPH
Thank you to Annie Palmer '10 and Lacy Davillier '04 for serving as our 20232024 Alumnae Association Board Co-Presidents.
TRUE BLUE BRUNCH
In September 2023, we celebrated our first True Blue Brunch, honoring the Past Presidents of the Alumnae Association Board and Distinguished Alumna Award recipients. They were treated to delicious brunch with a welcome and blessing by our Student Council President Gabby Denson '24; a performance by our UA Cheer Team; and remarks by Associate Director of Alumnae Relations Maria Merchan Weidenbacher '05; UAA Co-Presidents Lacy Davillier '04 and Annie Krasnow Palmer '10; Founding Member of the Laurel Legacy Guild, Suzanne Cromiller Thomas '73; Former Academy President Dr. Karen Jakuback; and Board of Trustees Chair David Huete.
ALUMNAE BOARD CELEBRATES AT 2024
HOMECOMING
April 24, 2025 is the 125th Anniversary of the Alumnae Association. We will celebrate at Super Terrific Happy Hour on April 23rd!
2022 DISTINGUISHED ALUMNAE MILDRED PILIÉ BRADLEY '69
DR. MARGARITA O'BYRNE CURTIS '69
The Ursuline Alumnae Association was proud to name Mildred Pilié Bradley '69 and Dr. Margarita O'Byrne Curtis '69 Distinguished Alumnae in 2022. The Ursuline Alumnae Association honored these outstanding members during its Homecoming celebration. The Distinguished Alumnae, chosen by a special committee of the Association, are outstanding graduates who best exemplify the core values and ideals of an Ursuline education in all aspects of their lives.
Millie Pilié Bradley is a native of New Orleans, with strong roots in the city, as her ancestor was the first City Surveyor in the early 1800s and created one of the first maps of the city. She graduated from Ursuline Academy as Valedictorian of the Sioux Class of 1969. She then went on to graduate Magna Cum Laude from Tulane University with an MBA in Finance and a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics.
During her career at ExxonMobil, Millie successfully utilized the strong foundation built at Ursuline in the many professional and community roles she has undertaken. Millie has had a lifelong passion for developing others in their careers, including specifically the mentoring of young women. She helped to create the Women’s Business Forum in Houston, allowing professional women to network and further develop their skills. She also served as the Board Chair of the Girls Scouts of Northeast Texas and is still involved with this organization in developing girls of courage, confidence, and character who make the world a better place.
Her spiritual formation while at Ursuline has also impacted her life in many ways. In addition to being committed to the continued spiritual formation of her family, she is on the board of the United Way of Metropolitan Dallas Foundation, which oversees strategic programs to better the community. She was the founding member of the United Way’s Women of Tocqueville, which specifically directs time and resources to better the education, income, and health of women in North Texas. She always strived to embody Ursuline’s goal of a lifelong commitment to Serviam.
Upon retiring from ExxonMobil, Millie has continued her active community involvement and has also been a member of Golden Seeds and Texas Women Ventures, Angel Investing groups focused on providing resources and mentoring to women entrepreneurs. Millie has been invited to speak on ethics, leadership, and work/life balance and is a visiting executive with Deloitte University.
Born in Cali, Colombia, Dr. Margartia O’Byrne Curtis immigrated to New Orleans at age 12 with her parents and four siblings, and attended Ursuline Academy for four years, graduating in 1969. She then earned undergraduate degrees at Tulane University (B.A. French) and Minnesota State University Mankato (B.S. Education), and began her teaching career at the Autonomous University of Guadalajara, Mexico. Following this one-year international appointment, she served a three-year tenure at Metairie Park Country Day School.
In 1979, she and her husband, a native of Gloucester, Massachusetts, moved to Boston, where she earned her M.A. and Ph.D. degrees in Romance Languages and Literatures at Harvard University.
For twenty years she served as a faculty member, department chair, and Dean of Studies at Phillips Academy, Andover. Then in 2006, Dr. Curtis was appointed Head of School of Deerfield Academy, a coeducational boarding school in Western, Massachusetts. Upon her retirement in June of 2019, she was awarded the Deerfield Medal, the highest honor conferred by the institution.
In 2020, shortly after moving back to New Orleans to be closer to her family, she accepted the position of Interim President of her Alma Mater (2020-2021). She was profoundly grateful for the opportunity to serve the institution that instilled the core values that have guided her throughout her life.
Dr. Curtis has won numerous accolades for her work, including earning the Certificate of Distinction in Teaching from the Derek Bok Center for Teaching and Learning at Harvard, earning five Kenan Research Grants, and serving in several educational roles that have impacted the Northeast U.S., Ecuador, and her home country of Colombia. Her dissertation on Spanish author Benito Pérez Galdós was awarded a Research Prize by the International Association of Galdosistas, and was published as a book in Spain.
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE CLASS OF 2023, OUR FIRST-EVER PHOENIX CLASS!
THE 51 GRADUATES EARNED A TOTAL OF $6.4 MILLION IN FOUR-YEAR SCHOLARSHIPS.
The valedictorian was Mae-Ying Stock-Bordnick Mae-Ying also received the Sedes Sapientiae Medal, which takes its name from one of the titles of Our Lady, “Seat of Wisdom” and is presented annually to the senior whose scholarship, achievement, and loyalty, in the opinion of the faculty, have been consistent and outstanding. Mae-Ying is the daughter of Dr. Allison Stock and Dr. Patrick Bordnick. Stock-Bordnick is a 2023 National Merit Semifinalist. She participated in district rallies and went to state rally for Latin, advanced math, and geometry. She was president of the Tri-M Music Honor Society and captain of the cross country team. She was also a member of the National Honor Society, National Art Honor Society, Book Club, track and soccer teams, and she competed and placed in numerous piano competitions. She will attend Tulane University on a tuition-exchange scholarship and will major in cell and molecular biology, with a minor in piano.
The salutatorian was Ella C. Chevis. She is the daughter of Kay and Marcus Chevis. She participated in district
rallies and went to state rally for English. Chevis was president of the Fiber Arts Club, which she helped bring back to Ursuline. She was also vice president of the Tri-M Music Honor Society and was a member of the National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, and orchestra. She will attend Loyola University New Orleans on the President’s, Legacy, Louisiana Resident, and Honors scholarships and will major in English literature.
Emilie Petitbon received the Cor Unum Award and was named our first ever Sunshine Sister.
Lauren M. Bickham received the 2023 CLC Medal, the highest award that Ursuline gives, for exemplifying the qualities of courtesy, loyalty, and courage.
Natalie E. Garner received the Sr. Damian Aycock, OSU Award for outstanding humanitarian service to those inside and outside of Ursuline Academy. This honor is decided by vote of the senior class.
Mae-Ying Stock-Bordnick
Ella C. Chevis
Emilie Petitbon
Lauren M. Bickham
Natalie E. Garner
SAVE THE DATE JOIN US ON STATE
Christmas Boutique ............................... December 6-7, 2024
Santa's Workshop ..................................... December 7, 2024
Caroling in the Chapel .............................. December 8, 2024
OLPS Feast Day............................................. January 8, 2025
International Serviam Day.......................... January 25, 2025
St. Angela's Feast Day ................................ January 27, 2025
Sweetheart Luncheon..................................... February 2025
Ursuline Day at The Old Ursuline Convent ...... February 1, 2025
Alumnae Winter Social Event ................... February 13, 2025
Spaghetti Fest ............................................... March 22, 2025
Super Terrific Happy Hour ............................... April 23, 2025
Spring Musical ................................................. April 25, 2025
Baccalaureate Mass ........................................... May 17, 2025
298th Commencement ...................................... May 17, 2025
Some dates are subject to change
IN MEMORIAM
Alumnae
Sr. Marie Jeanne Mouledoux R.S.M., AM
Dolores “Dee” Hymel Levy HM
Theresa LaBarbera Boone ’38
Marie Bilich Guidry ’39
Dorothy “Butsie” Schutten Guste ’41
Sister Mary Rose Bowen, OP ’43
Mary Elizabeth “Betty” Haase Brown ’44
Floris McCord Cairo ’44
Thais Astugue Calamia ’44
Dolores “Dodie” Sturcken Cheairs ’44
Marion Delcroix Ecuyer ’44
Joan Barrios Lococo ’48, C ’52
Agatha Grieshaber Schoen ’44, C ’48
Ruby Lanier Rodriguez ’49
Ann Gust Eller ’50
Gladys Aleman Reinecke ’50
Rita Mae Kehlor Williams ’50
Sarah "Sally" Calmes Fucich ’51
Dorothy McCabe Kueber ’51
Dr. Mary Jane Brodrick LaCoste ’51
Joan Gunning Merkle C ’52
Elsa MarÍa Perdomo RuÍz De Bruijn ’55
Carole St. Mard Fowler ’55
Jeanne Guillory McAllister ’55
Mary Katherine “Kay” Toye Tumminello ’56
Lise Eltz McStravick ’57
Dorothy "Dee Dee" Englisbee Mitchell ’58
Brenda Britsch Queenan ’58
Linda Dinon Tanet ’58
Verna Belsom Williams ’58
Susan Ducasse Aparicio ’59
Ann Van Geffen Meaux ’59
Dr. Kathryn Eberle Wildgen ’59
Carol Grundmann Schwartz ’60
Ann Kirsten Ziifle ’60
Elizabeth Goll Orr ’61
Joan Tipery Akin ’62
Patricia Lynn Delery Schully ’62
Clémence O'Kelley Palcso ’63
Pamela Weilbaecher Perry ’63
Susan Tipery Deter ’64
Enid Faust Eckhardt ’64
Kathleen Guarisco Schaub ’68
Deborah Faust ’69
Margaret Booker ’70
Elizabeth “Chippy” Kennedy ’70
Catherine Farrar Helmrich ’71
Rhea “Mickey” Horil Fontenot ’73
Kathleen Klundt McNulty ’73
Mary Ann LeBlanc Psarellis ’73
Ellen Vicknair Ryan ’73
Renee Bravo Spratt ’73
Tracy Tully ’75
Carli Ruth Kaplan Fried ’79
Tracy Tooker Griswold ’80
Suzanne Faure ’81
Dorothy “Dolly” Duplantier ’82
Deneen Schexnider ’82
Victoria Sappington ’83
Mary Lynn Wiltz ’84
Jennifer Gambles Dyess ’89
Meredith Leigh Boehm ’91
Daughter
of
Mary Lachin LeBlanc C ’42 (DEC)
Camille Edwards Guarisco C ’44 (DEC)
Beverly Peltz Klundt ’41, C ’45 (DEC)
Joelle Kempff Sappington ’62
Son of
Andree Poillon Meyer ’37 (DEC)
Jean Farrell Slaughter ’64
Amy Mosca Lepley ’89
Husband of
Coleen Perilloux Landry HM
Gladys Aleman Reinecke ’50 (DEC)
June Guillot Wisher ’48, C ’52
Domenica Calamia Villarrubia ’53
Kay Parent Berrigan ’57
Karen Kay Briuglio ’60
Mary Beth Winters Larson ’60
Dr. Sharon Accardo Hoffman ’71
Mary Kathleen McNamara Koutsioukis ’72
Mary Bolling Jones ’76
Elisa Nuccio Holt ’87
Kim Lindsay Spetsiotis ’91
Emily Morehiser Franco ’98
Mother of
Diane Marie Levy Centanni ’65 (DEC)
Lynn Levy Watts ’68
Deborah Levy Pierce ’69
Jan Maselli Mann ’73
Dolores “Dee Dee” Levy Johnson ’77
Stacey Stringer Mervin ’80
Cynthia Robidoux ’80
Erin Maronge Holloway ’81
Ruth Voisin ’81
Stephanie Vallot Roy ’82
Lisa Voisin Carroll ’83
Monique Vallot Gillen ’83
Elizabeth Glaser Broekman ’85
Angele Aparicio Pizzatola ’85
Candace Vallot Mannino ’86
Lisa Federico Babin ’89
Dr. Rechelle Diaz Brooks ’93
Sarah Hassell Perkins ’99
Johanna Hochhalter Logan ’00
Colleen Poster ’00
Shelby Duckworth ’14
Paige Tschirn ’21
Father
of
Katherine Landry ’75
Allison Pepin ’81
Bridget Fabacher LaForge ’86
Kristen Kuebel Beevers ’89
Christie Caver Plauche ’89
Colleen Fabacher Rude ’89
Marie Kuebel Morris ’93
Bianca Sampson Broussard ’01
Francesca Holt Blanchard ’12
Anna Michiels ’15
Sister
of
Patricia Gunning Reese ’47
Josephine Grieshaber Wagner C ’48 (DEC)
Janice St. Mard Neth ’50 (DEC)
Suzanne St. Mard Jung ’51
Julie Schutten Pitot ’51 (DEC)
Mary Ethel Booker Siefken ’55 (DEC)
Frances Ducasse Clements ’56
Lynn Englisbee Johnston ’56 (DEC)
Lydia Bezou-Hojnacki ’59
Elizabeth Scott Monaghan ’60
Frances Bezou Gervais ’60
Barbara Englisbee Swoop ’60
Joan Tipery Akin ’62 (DEC)
Lauralee Horil Perez ’63
Susan Tipery Deter ’64 (DEC)
Enid Faust Eckhardt ’64 (DEC)
Lindalee Horil Favaloro ’64
Ann Lewis Booker Loper ’64
Lisette St. Mard ’64
Carol Bezou Wahler ’64 (DEC)
Linda Goll Finley ’65
Stephanie Guarisco Brown ’66
Kathleen Van Geffen Gsottschneider ’66
Mary Ann Goll Morvant ’66
Deborah Ann Weilbaecher Boudreaux ’67
Louise LeBlanc Newman ’67
Mary Anne Klundt Wood ’68
Margaret Duplantier ’69
Deborah Faust ’69 (DEC)
Geraldine Klundt Crane ’71
Hilda Goll Lavie ‘71
Therese LeBlanc ’71
Elizabeth Duplantier AM ’72
Lisa Faust ’72
Sarah Weilbaecher Delatte ’74
Janet Horil Cheralla ’75
Beverly Klundt ’75
Poppy Tooker ’75
Sonya McQuarter ’81
Kimberly Sappington Pels ’84
Dr. Christy Valentine Theard ’92
Tressa Valentine Johnson ’94
Brother of
Lois Woolverton Bollinger ’65
Ellen Comiskey Perrier ’81
Grandmother of
Katie Pierce McElveen AME
Natasha Stoltz ’00
Laurie Pierce Martin ’01
Taralynn Stoltz ’01
Amanda Pierce Desselles ’04
Whitney Haasé Rees ’05
Madeleine Whitmire Bordelon ’09
Shelby Russell ’12
Eve Anders ’14
Kristen Vicknair ’15
Amelie Evans ’21
Grandfather of
Gabrielle Angelo Alred ’04
Lindsey Jenniskens Oncale ’05
Erin Caldarera Castille ’14
Gabrielle Brown ’16
Raphaella Brown ’18
Mykah Brown ’19
Granddaughter of
Amélie Deynoodt Rivet Duplantier 1907, C 1911 (DEC)
Grandson of
Karen Breaux Mosca ’75
Aunt of
Kathleen Swoop Prados ’88
Jessica Kennedy Becker ’89
Carolyn Siefken Wiley ’93
Barbara Siefken ’97
Lisa Lavie Martin ’99
Emily Lavie Mjelde ’03
Madeleine Mouledoux ’05
Avin Puderer Squires ’05
Christine Baudouin Ewing ’09
Jeanne-Marie Baudouin ’11
Uncle of
Erin Boyd ’02 (DEC)
Avin Puderer Squires ’05
Skye Cornelia ’10
Lindsay Bickham ’22
Lauren Bickham ’23
Niece of
Sr. Mary Claire Rivet, OSU 1906 (DEC)
Sr. St. Pierre Rivet, OSU 1914 (DEC)
Sr. Mary Loyola Weilbaecher, OSU (Julia) ’25 (DEC)
Thelma Mae Mouledoux Trapolin ’33 (DEC)
Rhea Weilbaecher Holt ’34 (DEC)
Yvonne Duplantier Pugh ’36 (DEC)
Dorothy “Dot” Weilbaecher ’40 (DEC)
Gloria Lachin Mouledoux C ’45 (DEC)
Audrey Duplantier Cerise ’56
Yvonne Kempff Smith ’58
Nephew
of
Gabrielle Poillon Leach ’33, C ’37 (DEC)
Louise Marie Poillon ’34 (DEC)
Stephanie Mosca Steckerl ’88
Vanessa Mosca Alphonso ’98
Cousin of
Sister Teresita Rivet, OSU ’36
Rita Deichmann Case ’57
Alma Ann Soignier Weilbaecher ’57 (DEC)
Claire Weilbaecher Bourgeois ’59
Nancy Weilbaecher Davis ’64
Mary Weilbaecher Desimone ’69
Gretchen Hock ’72
Jeanne Duplantier ’75
Louise Duplantier Cragin ’77
Dr. Elizabeth “Cissy” Cerise LaForge ’77
Lauren Tully ’77 (DEC)
Hélène Cerise ’79
Colleen Tully Elmore ’81
Mary Cerise Roper ’83
Elizabeth Desimone ’05
Mother-in-law of
Jennifer Melancon Vicknair ’92
Hollie Randazzo Chan ’99
Father-in-law of
Mary Guggenheimer Bruno ’04
Sister-in-law of
Inez Perrier Grieshaber ’44 (DEC)
Brother-in-law of
Barbara Winters ’68
Kathleen Accardo Cornelia ’70
Dr. Bonnie Accardo Boyd ’74
Alison Bolling Fisse ’78
Nora Bolling Bilbro ’86
Nancy Bolling Roussel ’89
Son-in-law of
Eunice Knop Accardo ’36 (DEC)
AME Associate Member, Elementary
AMH Associate Member, High School
AMC Associate Member, College
C Ursuline College
DEC Deceased
HM Honorary Member
If the name of an alumna to whom you are related does not appear here, please call the Office of Alumnae at 504.861.9114 or email us at alumnae@uanola.org
Ursuline students tried to catch a glimpse of the Solar Eclipse of 2024.
Adam Strickland, captain of the Krewe of Alla and Ursuline IT Director, led our Early Childhood Krewe with Queen Mary Boykin and King Patrick Gunn pulled by Rowan Harris.
Taylor Pierre, Ava Schlaudecker, Sanai Hunter, and Nimah Baloney took in the sights at the Louvre during their summer abroad trip to Paris, France!
We love the addition of our high school Bowling Lions!
Ursuline girls of all ages love signing up to take Our Lady home with them for a few days!
Congratulations to the cast of Annie, Jr.
In celebration of All Saints' Day, our 3rd grade students created beautiful portraits of the saints they learned all about.
There's nothing like serving alongside our sister schools. New Orleans and St. Louis came together and served Saint Bernard Project.
Rosemary Phoenix and her mom were thankful for the delicious meal at the Early Childhood Thanksgiving Feast.
Milena White (Miss Hannigan), Ava Rider (Rooster), and Sloane Pierce (Lily) danced and sang down Easy Street in the Academy's spring musical production of Annie, Jr.