THE URSU.LINES THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF URSULINE ACADEMY OF NEW ORLEANS
2015
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URSU.LINES STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS Academy President
KAREN THOMAS MCNAY
Elementary School Principal KIM HARPER DIMARCO
High School Principal ALICE BAIRNSFATHER
Director of Admissions NICOLE ALVAREZ
Director of Alumnae CHRISTY JACKSON ZURCHER ’00
Director of Communications SARAH RUSH MILLER
Director of Development JANE ANN FROSCH
Contributing Writers & Photographers
Dolly Duplantier '82 Pat Garin Mary Lee Berner Harris ’66 Donn Young 2
what’s inside
TABLE OF CONTENTS 4 President's Perspective
5 Devotion to Our Lady of Prompt Succor 6 200 Years and Counting: Ursulines Keep Promise 8 Ursuline Arts Festival 12 Upgrades: Lower School Science Lab 14 Lions on the Loose: Adventures After School 16 Close Up Program 18 Beyond Our Borders 20 Ursuline Spirit Around the World 23 Sweet Success: Ashley Hansen '91 26 Forever in our Hearts: Sister Teresita Rivet, OSU 28 2014 Distinguished Alumna 29 New Scholarships 30 Miracles: Alumnae Babies 32 Weddings: Alumnae Marriages 34 About Alumnae 42 Reunited: Class Reunions 45 Summer Send-off 46 In Memoriam 48 Merry Mac Class of 2015 52 Cor Unum Award 2015 54 Around State Street
ON THE COVER The original crowns for the Coronation of Our Lady of Prompt Succor (1895) were designed by the Ursuline Sisters and created with jewels donated by people of New Orleans and surrounding areas. 3
Dear Ursuline Family, As you read through The Ursu.lines magazine, you will notice the rich history of our 288 years juxtaposed against the call to educate our girls for the future. Ursuline Academy’s history brings pride, compassion and leadership to the alumnae who walked the halls of our campus. Her history and core values of courtesy, loyalty and courage set the foundation for our future decisions, actions and values. Our Ursuline Sisters formed New Orleans in a way few other groups afford such influence. The 200th anniversary celebration in the National Shrine of Our Lady of Prompt Succor shares how integral our Ursuline Sisters were in the New Orleans community. The Battle of New Orleans highlighted the call to prayer and intercessions to Our Lady of Prompt Succor. Our lesson for today and the future remains – our faith must be steadfast and the center of our lives. Sister Teresita’s faith and devotion to our girls remain an example to all of us. Soeur T’s life demonstrates how one person can change the world. As she left us this year, we celebrate one woman’s touch on the Ursuline community, our students and families. This year brought our first annual Ursuline Academy Arts Festival. We gathered to celebrate our fine arts programs throughout the school. The Sisters established a premier arts program which continues today. Our girls are blessed with opportunities that tie creativity and critical thinking through self-expression. We look forward to continuing the Academy Arts Festival in the coming years. No other institution matches Ursuline’s history. Her future beams with an awareness that our girls must be steeped in faith and history, tethered to lifelong learning and service for the future. As our students go forward from Ursuline, they are adding to the history of those before them. In Christ,
Karen T. McNay
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Devotion to Our Lady of Prompt Succor The devotion of Ursuline Academy to the Virgin Mary under the title of Our Lady of Prompt Succor originated in 1810 with the desire of a French Ursuline nun, Mother Saint Michel Gensoul, OSU, to join the Ursuline nuns in New Orleans in their work. The bishop, whose permission she needed, was so reluctant to lose her services to the people of his jurisdiction, that he told her she must obtain a special permission from the Pope. This was an extremely difficult task because of the political and religious upheaval in 19th century France, but Mother St. Michel was undaunted. She wrote to Pope Pius VII and prayed to the Blessed Virgin for a “quick and favorable" answer to her request, promising to have Mary honored in New Orleans under the title of Our Lady of Prompt Succor (Our Lady of Quick Help). As is evident, Mother St. Michel’s request was quickly granted and she commissioned the creation of the wooden statue Our Lady with her Son covered in gold leaf robes, which she brought with her to New Orleans. In 1894, Pope Leo XIII declared the statue of Our Lady of Prompt Succor “miraculous.” Crowns were created with jewels donated by people from New Orleans and surrounding areas. The crowns are adorned with amethysts, diamonds, emeralds, opals, pearls, rubies, sapphires, topazes and turquoises. (A second set of crowns for everyday use would be created later.) The coronation took place on November 10, 1895 at the Dauphine Street Convent. It continues to be the only miraculous statue to be crowned by papal decree
Top photo: The statue's flowing robes were carefully carved so that she would appear to be moving quickly. Middle: The original crowns created with jewels gifted by those devoted to Our Lady Prompt Succor Bottom: Prioress Mary Anne Holmes, OSU; Sister Regina Marie Fronmuller, OSU; Academy President Karen McNay; Ursuline Museum Curator Mary Lee Harris '66; Sister Rosemary Meiman, OSU; and Sister Karen Schwane, OSU view the historical crowns on the 119th anniversary of the statue’s coronation. Students were also treated to up-close views and history lessons.
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An Account of January 8, 1815 From the Annals of the Ursuline Sisters From the windows of our Convent, we could see the smoke rising from the battlefield in the plains of Chalmette. We could hear the report of guns and the thunder of cannons. The night of January 7 was spent in prayer before the Blessed Sacrament. Everything seemed hopeless for the Americans. The disproportion of troops ... Pakenham’s 13,000 strong, the flower of the British troops, against Jackson’s 3,000 raw recruits ... insured victory to the English, in which case, nothing, save all the horrors of pillage, could be expected for the conquered city, the brutal watchwords of General Pakenham being ‘Booty and Beauty.’ Jackson, himself, had sworn that should he be vanquished, the enemy would find New Orleans a heap of ruins. In order to help in averting this imminent danger, the Chapel was continuously thronged with pious ladies … all weeping and praying at the foot of the beautiful statue of Our Lady of Prompt Succor, which was placed on the main altar; and there, as a mother in the midst of her 6
(English Translation)
sorrowing children, did Mary listen to the supplications of her devout clients, and plead their cause with the heart of her Divine Son. On the morning of January 8, 1815, Very Reverend William DuBourg, Vicar General (afterwards Bishop of New Orleans), offered up the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, in presence of the statue of Our Lady of Prompt Succor; and the Community, through the Superior, Mother Ste. Marie Olivier de Vezin, made a vow to have a Mass of thanksgiving sung every year, should the Americans gain the victory. At the moment of Holy Communion, a courier entered the Chapel to announce the glad tidings of the enemy’s defeat. After Mass, Father DuBourg intoned the Te Deum, which was sung with an accent of such lively gratitude that it seemed as if the very vaults of our Chapel should open to allow this touching thanksgiving to ascend more freely to the throne of God.
Jackson, himself, the hero of the day, hesitated not to admit of the "Divine Interposition" in his favor; and in his first proclamation to the Army, he exclaimed, "While, by the blessing of Heaven, directing the valor of the troops under my command, one of the most brilliant victories in the annals of the war was obtained!" Glorious, indeed, and unparalleled was the victory of our American arms, for if the 300 slain on the side of the English declared their defeat a marvel, the six corpses and seven wounded on the American side proclaimed far more eloquently the stupendous achievement of Jackson’s men. On January 23, 1815, in compliance with Jackson’s personal request, a Solemn High Mass of Thanksgiving
was celebrated with all possible religious pomp and ceremony in the St. Louis Cathedral; and Father DuBourg, placing the victor’s crown on the brow of Jackson, thus addressed him: "How easy it would have been for you, General, to forget the Prime Rover of your wonderful success, and to assume yourself a praise which must return to that exalted source whence every sort of merit is derived. The first impulse of your religious heart was to acknowledge the signal interposition of Providence." The same day, General Jackson with his staff visited our Monastery in order to thank the Sisters for the prayers which had helped him to gain so significant a victory. The Ursuline Convent Collection, Archives and Museum, New Orleans
On January 8, 2015, the Ursuline Sisters honored a 200-year-old promise. In 1815, many New Orleans families turned to Our Lady of Prompt Succor as the vastly outnumbered soldiers of General Andrew Jackson faced the British in the Battle of New Orleans. Following the Americans’ surprising victory on January 8, 1815, General Jackson personally visited the Ursuline Sisters to express his gratitude for their prayers for the safety of his soldiers. A promise was made and kept by the Sisters to annually celebrate Our Lady of Prompt Succor and to give thanks for Her intercessions each year on January 8. This solemn commemoration is celebrated by the Archbishop of New Orleans along with many other bishops and clergyman, and ends with the chanting of the Te Deum. January 8, 2015 marked the 200th consecutive Eucharistic Celebration held on this day in honor of Our Lady of Prompt Succor. Special thank you to Mary Lee Berner Harris '66, The Ursuline Convent Collection, Archives and Museum, New Orleans 7
The Inaugural
URSULINE ARTS FESTIVAL
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Ursuline students of all ages celebrated the arts at the inaugural Ursuline Arts Festival on April 22, 2015. The student-led festival offered audiences the opportunity to stroll through the Fitness and Wellness Center, Ourso Athletic Center, and Early Childhood Learning Center to experience diverse expressions of music, visual arts, and performing arts. The collaborative and open environment including the following:
VISUAL ARTS
MUSIC
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Elementary students showcased their year in art. Ceramics, block prints, watercolor, acrylic painting, drawing and master reproductions and more were displayed for this magnificent event.
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Students from 3rd through 7th grade sang and played recorders, drums, percussion instruments and pianos. The 7th graders played handbells and the 3rd and 4th graders played violins. The UA Recorder Consort, Elementary School Choir, and Middle School String Orchestra (violins, violas, cellos, basses) also performed.
HIGH SCHOOL All levels of high school art were represented at the festival. Introduction to Art One displayed observational drawings and pen and ink drawings. Introduction to Art Two displayed portraits and pattern designs. Painting classes displayed a wide variety of painting styles and techniques. 3-D Design displayed coil, slab and draped ceramics in addition to plaster masks and bowls. Independent Art displayed artwork in various media. SENIOR ART SHOW Seniors put their best works of art on display in this annual show. Awards were given in categories including Painting, 3-D Design, Drawing, and Miscellaneous Media. One work of art was awarded “Best in Show.”
HIGH SCHOOL Performances from the Ursuline Women’s Chorus showcased spring concert pieces, the High School Orchestra performed in the Ourso Athletic Center, and piano students delighted audiences with a spring recital in the auditorium. 9
PERFORMING ARTS REMEMBER THE LADIES Ursuline's seventh annual "Remember the Ladies" focused on women who have made an impact on the arts in America. The 2015 theme was “Creating an American Culture.” Each junior in American History class chose a woman who was influential in the arts to portray during the festival. Audiences had the opportunity to mingle with these influential women and have conversations about their contributions to the arts. The Advanced Placement U.S. History students performed “Carousel of Progress: History and the Arts” in the Nia Robertson '97 Classroom. The presentation took audiences through history to explain the impact the arts have had on our country.
In letters to her husband, Abigail Adams asked future President John Adams to "remember the ladies" as the founding fathers were creating the new nation.
A look back ...
THE ARTS AT URSULINE 1727 From the very beginning, Ursuline Sisters incorporated music and needle arts into their weekly instructional routine. This was necessary for many ceremonial activities associated with Catholic worship and education. It was also believed that a well-rounded education for girls who were to be proper homemakers and educators of their children included a proficiency in the arts. 10
1760 As a result of France’s loss to Britain in the Seven Years’ War, the agreed upon Treaty of Paris in 1763 determined that all lands west of the Mississippi River, the Port of New Orleans and Cuba would become part of the Spanish Empire. Consequently, when Spanish governors arrived to rule New Orleans, they insisted that the French Ursulines add Spanish nuns to their number. The Spanish nuns brought with them highly specific skills in the arts including painting, drawing, waxsculpture, quilling, special types of needlework, embroidery, and string instruments, such as the mandolin and guitar. These new skills were incorporated into the Academy’s curriculum.
1824 After moving the Academy to a larger space on Dauphine St., the arts were an essential and well-established part of the curriculum. Concerts, performances, pageants and exhibits were a regular part of the school calendar. Arts requirements were also necessary to graduate.
1893 Columbian Exposition was the first World’s Fair in the United States, held in Chicago, and Ursuline Academy was invited to attend. Students displayed samples of paintings, writing, music, poetry and pottery.
1912 The arts continued to play a significant role and many awards were given each year in categories such as musical performances, pageants, one-act plays and more.
Pictured: Opposite page - Art class in 1896-1897 Top - St. Ursula Orchestra, 1880's Middle - Ursuline Academy's "Diploma of Honor" for participating in the World's Fair, 1893 Bottom - Ursuline's Choir performing in 1947
Thank you to Mary Lee Berner Harris '66, Ursuline Convent Archives and Museum, New Orleans 11
Upgrades: LOWER SCHOOL SCIENCE LAB
BY JANE ANN FROSCH
A new science lab gives lower school students their very own space to experiment, discover and grow. A generous donation from UA alumna Jean Nolan Coleman '73 allowed Ursuline Academy to open a dedicated science lab for students in the elementary school during the 2014-2015 school year. Jeanie was assisted by her sister, Mary Nolan Looney ’66, in making the lab a vital and inviting space where students would be inspired and motivated. Research coming from the National Science Teachers Association supports the notion that inquiry science must be a basic in the curriculum of every elementary school student in every grade level. The elementary science program should provide opportunities for students to develop understandings and skills necessary to function productively as problem solvers in a scientific and technological world. Students learn best when they are involved in first-hand exploration and investigation and inquiry/process skills are nurtured. A variety of presentation modes to accommodate different learning styles is essential, and students should be given opportunities to interact and share ideas with their peers. Because Ursuline Academy is preparing our female students to compete in a world where STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math ) careers offer some of the highest paying and most stable jobs, it is our responsibility to encourage our very youngest scientists by giving them wonderful hands-on experiences that translate into a knowledge-base that includes an understanding of the four disciplinary core ideas in science teaching: physical sciences, earth and space sciences, engineering, technology, and applications of sciences. Watching some of our youngest students have their “aha” moment as they do handson experiments and projects reinforces the necessity of teaching in the lab. Women are traditionally underrepresented in the STEM fields, and jump-starting girls’ interest in STEM subjects should help boost the percentage of scientists and engineers who are women. Ursuline is now doing its part in elementary school, preparing our students to actively engage in the inquiry based, hands-on, collaborative process laying the foundation that will prepare them for middle school science, high school science and beyond. 12
THE LOWER SCHOOL SCIENCE LAB IN ACTION Ursuline's 4th grade class recently learned some important scientific concepts with a “hands-on” project involving the building of a bridge with everyday supplies. The bridge needed to span a distance of 1.5 feet and support a plastic cup containing 20 pennies. The purpose of this assignment allowed students to apply The Design Process routinely used by scientists and engineers. It required that the students first understand the problem, then brainstorm solutions, build a model, test the model and evaluate the results. If the design failed to work as expected, then they need to take what they learned and apply it to a new solution. “At first they struggled as they really were not sure what to do, but once they got going, it was really amazing to see the energy and creativity they put into their designs,” said Mrs. Lloyd, the 4th grade teacher.
Second graders learned how scientists collect and analyze information through experiments. After discussing the scientific terms prediction/hypothesis and conclusion, the students conducted an experiment placing raisins in small beakers filled with a carbonated beverage. Before the experiment began, the girls filled out a scientific observation sheet outlining their individual predictions. After much discussion and formulating their hypotheses, the future scientists dropped their raisins into the liquid and watched with much anticipation! As the raisins “danced" in the beakers, the girls eagerly took notes describing the actual results of their experiment. They concluded that the carbonated bubbles carried the raisins to the surface of the liquid and then popped, resulting in the raisins rising and falling in the liquid.
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ON
THE
LOOSE
AFTER-SCHOOL ADVENTURES Lions On the Loose, Ursuline’s revamped after-school program, provides elementary students with a vast array of adventures. Drama queens take the stage, artists create masterpieces, mini cheerleaders show their UA spirit, robots are unleashed, poetry is explored, toddlers morph into chefs, drum beats fill the air, and the dancing never slows down. Staying after school has never been so much fun! empower them to become girl drummers!" -Ben Viguerie, Drum Jam Instructor
"There are so many ways to play a drum. There are so many different rhythms, so many different things that you can do and tempos ... slow ... almost anything." - Paige, Drum Jam participant
Rising Stars Drum Jam! With Mr. Viguerie "I created the after school program 'Drum Jam! with Mr. Viguerie' because I wanted to offer the students a different kind of creative outlet. I wanted to give them the opportunity to play instruments that they may not get to play in music class and to give them the opportunity to interact and be creative with students from other grades. As a drummer, there is a certain physical nature to playing drums that I enjoy and knew the students would enjoy. This physical aspect combined with the creative can also be a powerful tool in their development, both physically and mentally. I also want to do my part to change the paradigm of drums being a male-dominated instrument and to let our girls know that anyone can play drums and 14
"Rising Stars provides a nurturing space for some of our youngest students to cultivate a love of theater and performance. The program accomplishes this through
the use of basic drama and improvisation games, as well as showing the girls what it takes to put on a full-blown production (such as memorizing lines and cues, learning how to project their voices, learning what it means to react in a scene, etc.) all culminating in the end with a performance in front of friends and family. Rising Stars gives these second and third graders a real life feel for what it takes to perform in front of an audience. For me, the most rewarding part is seeing these young girls grow more and more confident on stage, which is all part of their learning to express themselves creatively." - Renee Barras, Rising Stars Instructor
"I was excited and scared at first when I was on stage, but now I really like acting." - Amelie, Rising Stars participant
Lions on the Loose classes vary by semester. Below is a sample of some recently offered classes. BRICKS 4 KIDS Students explore architecture, engineering, and technology concepts with Lego Bricks. They learn everything from gears, torque and friction to space exploration and more. CHALLENGE ISLAND Where engineering meets imagination, this handson class fosters creativity, critical thinking skills, and cooperative learning as students are separated into small tribes to complete challenges with infinitive solutions and to achieve success as a unified group. CHEERING WITH THE UA LION Toddlers learn songs and cheers and perform at an Ursuline sporting event. CHILDREN'S STARSTRUCK THEATER Students audition, prepare for, and perform in a theatrical production. COOKING WITH TODDLERS Children learn important social and emotional skills (sharing, taking turns, controlling emotions) as well as mathematical, science, and language skills as they cook something new each week. GIRLS ON THE RUN Girls on the Run uses running to prepare girls for a lifetime of self-respect and healthy living. LEGO MINDSTORMS EV3 ROBOTICS Students create and command robots that walk, talk, think, and do anything they can imagine. NOLA GYMNASTICS Coaches teach beginner and pre-team level gymnastics.
Kids Can Code "It is never too early to begin learning the basic theory behind today’s constantly evolving technological world. This class is designed for young learners to begin creating a foundation for understanding computer science and computer coding. Along with learning the basic principles of computer science, students will use Blockly programming to program basic computer games and applications." - Jessica Baker, Kids Can Code Instructor
"I like to make the characters move, collide, and talk on the computer." - Arya, Kids Can Code participant
SEWING SCHOOL Students learn basic and advanced techniques and sew headbands, scrunchies, wristlets, pillowcases, aprons, and more. WHAT’S IN A POEM? Students study and ask questions about modern poetry, write their own poems, and generate dialogue about each other’s work. YOGA Yoga physically enhances children’s flexibility, strength, coordination and body awareness. YOUNG REMBRANDTS Students learn to skillfully draw cartoon illustrations, expressive faces, transform inanimate objects, and more. 15
Discovery: CLOSE UP PROGRAM
BY CHRISTY JACKSON ZURCHER '00
For the last two decades, Dean of Students Karen Hubble Mortillaro '89 has been taking Ursuline students to Washington D.C. for an inside look at democracy in action. teach Advanced Placement United States History and her Since 1995, Karen Hubble Mortillaro ’89, has taken passion is still in bringing students to experience D.C. up Ursuline students on an out-of-classroom experience close and personal. During the Close Up trip, students not they will never forget. Students in their junior year have only meet other students the opportunity to visit from places near and far, Washington, D.C., our they study democracy, nation’s capital, and see visit museums, debate our government in action. current issues, study It is during this trip war memorials, attend a that they gain the skills, mock congress workshop, knowledge and confidence meet with members of needed to be informed, Congress on Capitol Hill, engaged citizens. attend congressional Hosted by the Close Up committee hearings Foundation, this trip gives and visit Colonial students a week-long Williamsburg. These experience of a lifetime experiences allow students and enables Karen to show to be hands-on and to them a living, breathing Karen Hubble Mortillaro ’89 (pictured above) has been taking voice their opinions. classroom. Ursuline students to Washington D.C. since 1995. It cultivates leadership and enhances thoughtKaren began her teaching provoking conversations. Being with peers from other career in the Ursuline History Department immediately after her college graduation in 1994. In 2009, she became parts of the country also exposes students to different the Dean of Students. Alongside that role, she continues to attitudes and perspectives. 16
Pictured above: (left) Students on Close Up attend Mass at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception and (right) explore the United States Botanic Garden. It seems that every year the groups get a little bigger as students are more and more interested. Karen explains that “this is not just a tour trip – this is an interactive, educational program that allows the students to walk away having been truly a part of their democracy not just as an outsider looking in. It brings the classroom alive for students.” In November of 2015, 49 Junior Skips attended the Close Up program. Kate Browning, Skip of 2016, explained, “I enjoyed the experience and felt I was leaving as a more informed citizen of the United States. I learned the intricacies and logistics of the U.S. government. I also met many friends whom I am still in contact with. Washington, D.C. also offered a new environment to explore and learn.”
myself. Discovering who I truly am allowed me to form many new, lasting friendships that I will treasure forever!” Some students utilize Close Up to explore potential career paths and for others, it simply broadens horizons and encourages them to be stronger citizens. Regardless, Close Up provides students an incredible opportunity to learn outside of the classroom. With a strong program set in place by the Close Up Foundation and a passionate Ursuline leader to lead the way, our future female leaders have much to gain from this experience.
MRS. MORTILLARO'S FIRST CLOSE UP! (1995)
Explore and learn is just what students do while on the Close Up trip. Small group workshops allow students to meet other students, contemplate current issues and have their voices heard. “Debates within our workshops gave me great insight and new perspectives on political topics, which I think have formed my involvement as an effective citizen,” said Mallory Picou, a Skip of 2016. Margo Roussel, Skip of 2016, feels that “Close-Up not only taught me a lot of new information about our government, but also about myself. In such an accepting environment, I was encouraged to form my own opinions and express
UA students meet with Rep. Bob Livingston on the first Close Up trip led by Mrs. Mortillaro in 1995. 17
Discovery: BEYOND OUR BORDERS
Ursuline's Beyond Our Borders Immersion Program challenges students to experience a world outside their own.
Eleven upperclassmen and three teachers from Ursuline Academy spent the first week of their summer vacation building a house in Belize City, Belize for a family in need. The group partnered with Hand in Hand Ministries Building for Change along with a local construction crew to construct a 16’ x 16’ wooden house. They also learned about social issues and the cultural richness of Belize. They worked incredibly hard, but still managed to squeeze in a few adventures, including visiting an ancient Mayan ruin site and an island off the coast of Belize City. Students have been challenged to take inspiration from their trip and relate it to comparable social issues in New Orleans. The students divided into four groups and are currently working to implement service projects that connect their experiences in Belize with the Ursuline community and with organizations throughout the city. The issues the groups have chosen to focus on include poverty and homelessness, violence against women, living simply and appreciating what one has, and the significant gap between wealthy and poor citizens.
Strengthened by the Word of God and by the communion with each other, let us have the courage to go beyond our borders and, with Angela, be signs of reconciliation and hope.� (2007 Ursuline General Chapter Message) 18
Inspired by their experiences in Belize, students focus on year-long projects in NOLA.
GROUP ONE:
Poverty and Homelessness
"Our group’s focus is on building for change. We have found astounding similarities between the poverty and homelessness in Belize and in New Orleans. While on the service trip, we witnessed dilapidated homes and unlivable spaces. We witnessed situations where many people were crammed in the smallest of living spaces. These people, however, were completely happy and welcomed us with open arms. To see such impoverished people living such faith-filled and joyous lives made us want to bring this type of service back to our community even more. Through the course of this year, we are planning to take multiple trips to different service sites geared toward building homes and bringing about awareness for poverty." - Students Kendall McGoey, Ingeborg Hyde, Katherine Meiklejohn GROUP TWO:
Violence Against Women
"Our topic deals with violence against women; some areas of our focus are domestic violence and/or sexual harassment. Our inspiration is Hilda Gonzales, the woman we built the house for in Belize. We were also inspired by Hand and Hand Ministries which advocates for women in poverty. We want to raise awareness for violence against women in hopes that one day, all woman can have the security of a safe environment the way Hilda has now." - Students Madeleine Walker, Madison Vise, Elizabeth Keller GROUP THREE:
Living Simply
"While in Belize, we were inspired by the people who grew in their faith and their love and appreciation for life and family despite lacking certain material amenities that many people in our community have been blessed with. The way that they embraced simplicity inspired us to strive to do the same and to encourage others to learn about the complex blessings that living simply has to offer. Therefore, our topic for the 2015-2016 school year will be living simply. We will encourage the Ursuline community to gradually make changes in their everyday lives that will eventually lead to them focusing less on material items and more on faith, family, and love. Some of these changes include monitoring personal water and electricity use, shortening unnecessary time spent on electronics, and spending more time on personal reflection, prayer and family." - Students Jeannie Nguyen, Emily Lonker, Kiersten Jeanne GROUP FOUR:
Gap Between Poor and Wealthy Citizens
When we embarked to Belize, Central America we saw that many injustices existed throughout the city we stayed in. All members of our group realized that there was a significant gap between the wealthy and poor citizens of Belize City. It also seemed that basic resources, like internet access and health care, were not equally attainable or distributed among the different classes. What motivated our group to act was meeting the Gonzales family, who we built [a house] for. Their younger son, Ishmael, had a speech impediment and could not attend school because their family did not have access to these types of accommodations, as they were not as wealthy as other members of the city. Our project’s goal is to help our school realize that this is a universal problem, and it is not just beyond our own borders that this gap exists; it is also a common issue here in New Orleans." - Students Meg MacLaren, Jordan Nicholson, Kalee Jo Banks 19
Ursuline Spirit
Around the World Taking inspiration from their Ursuline experiences, three alumnae set forth on adventures around the globe. BY CHRISTY JACKSON ZURCHER '00
NICARAGUA
Mary Margaret Abbott Hevron '64
Mary Margaret Abbott Hevron, Merry Mac of 1964, carries the spirit of Serviam to Nicaragua every year to care for those in need. As part of her church’s medical mission trip, Mary Margaret, along with her husband Dr. John Hevron, spends five days with doctors, residents, nurses and Peace Corps volunteers to provide medical attention to Nicaraguans. The Hevrons have been doing this for over 20 years. For the first five years, the trips were to Honduras. The focus has since shifted solely to Nicaragua. Mission volunteers have blessed Nicaraguans in many ways. Upon their visits, they bring reading glasses to the locals and provide dental, veterinarian, art and even foot clinics. In fact, Mary Margaret began a foot clinic with another nurse. These mission trips have proven to be life-changing for both locals and volunteers. The couple has gained peace, gratitude and a stronger bond for the human race. Mary Margaret and her daughter, who has also volunteered, were both inspired to become nurses as a result of the medical mission trips. (At the age of 51, 20
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Mary Margaret accomplished her goal and graduated from Louisiana State University School of Nursing.) The planning and procedures to follow when organizing a trip can be extensive, but Mary Margaret sees the value in all of the work. She witnesses firsthand how opening her heart uplifts the spirits of those she is serving. From New Orleans, Louisiana to pueblos in Nicaragua, the spirit of Serviam lives on.
Michelle Heyer '98 Bonnie Bowler '98
SPAIN
Bonnie Bowler and Michelle Heyer, Skips of 1998, never imagined that meeting in the hallowed halls of Ursuline would lead them on a lifelong journey of friendship, discovery, and a renewal of their Catholic faith. In 2014 they walked the Camino de Santiago, a pilgrimage through Northern Spain which leads faithful pilgrims to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela where the remains of St. James are interred. Together, without the luxuries or distractions of their daily lives, they packed only the essentials and set out on their way. Their 38-day walk began in France and spanned over 600 miles through Spain to the Atlantic Ocean. Following pilgrim tradition, Bonnie and Michelle carried a worry stone for over 375 miles of their journey. Like many pilgrims before them, they left their stone at the Cross of Cruz de Ferro as a symbol to “Lighten your load, lighten your burdens.” “We each carried a small piece of Spanish tile, which was part of the original roof from the Shrine of Our Lady of Prompt Succor,” said Bonnie. “We left the tiles as a symbol of the girls who came before us, the ones who graduated with us, and those girls who have yet to become part of the Ursuline sisterhood.” Through this journey, Bonnie and Michelle gained knowledge about friendship, prayer, service, and most importantly sacrifice. “We walked for transcendence for ourselves and all Ursuline alumnae,” said Michelle. “We walked to experience something beyond the life we live.” 21
Little did Katie Stahel, Merry Mac of 2012, know that working with the homeless as part of Ursuline’s service learning curriculum in her senior year would lead her into global service. After graduation, Katie knew that she wanted to keep pushing herself. She began her college career at Clemson University, studying Chemical Engineering, and didn’t stop serving. In the summer after her sophomore year, Katie was looking for more than just an internship. She came across WorldTeach. Through this program, she was trained as an ICT (Information, Computer and Technology) teacher. Katie was one of eight teachers sent to Namibia, Africa, where she would spend one week receiving in-depth culture and language training. She then drove eight hours to arrive in her final teaching destination.
KATIE STAHEL '12
Namibia
For ten weeks, she lived amongst the community and taught at a Junior Secondary School, grades 8-10. There were 400 students and Katie taught every one of them. The school had a computer lab filled with donated computers but no one knew how to use them. Katie took over and led an elective class, teaching six or seven periods every day. She also taught local teachers and shop owners. The locals generally do not begin to study English until fifth grade, so Katie had to learn the basics of their native language, Oshikwanyama. Katie was inspired by the community’s enthusiasm for learning. While school dismissed at 2 p.m., Katie kept the computer lab open until 5 p.m. Every minute of that time, people were there practicing. Katie said they learned everything from how to turn the computer on, type a resume in Word, perform basic Excel tasks, and keep track of grades. From learning Serviam at Ursuline to carrying it all the way to Namibia, Katie finds it extremely fulfilling to reach out and help others.
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T E E W S
s s e c c u S
BY DOLLY DUPLANTIER '82
Merry Mac Continues Family Tradition Providing Snoballs to Generations of Families New Orleans is a city of amazing seasons. Here, we celebrate much more than a change in temperature. Our seasons include crab, oyster, and shrimp to name a few. One of the most colorful of all is snoball season! When the first stand opens, it’s a sure sign that summer is not far behind. For Ashley Hansen (Merry Mac, Class of 1991), owner of Hansen’s Sno-Bliz at 4801 Tchoupitoulas St., opening day is always in March. The stand has been a long time favorite for years and has seen many generations enjoy the cool freshness of a snoball on a hot, steamy day. It all began in 1934 when Ashley’s grandfather, Ernest Hansen, built one of the first electric ice-shaving machines. Ernest and his wife, Mary, opened a small shop on St. Ann Street. The stand moved to its current location in 1944. Ashley adored her grandparents and loved helping out as a child. After graduating from Loyola University in 1995
with a degree in art, she knew where she wanted to be – working with her grandparents at the stand. Ashley eventually became the owner by purchasing the business from her father and her uncle after the succession of her grandparents. Mary passed away in September 2005 and Ernest in April 2006. After Katrina, the stand was shuttered just for the winter. While things were certainly difficult, Ashley knew that after everything she had been through, there was no way she would let a New Orleans summer pass without having a snoball! Thanks to some dedicated New Orleanians, customers and friends, she opened the stand in the spring of 2006. “There is no way I could have reopened by myself,” she said. “These kind volunteers were really responsible for our success in reopening.” For Ashley, there were many reasons to reopen the 23
snoball stand. “I thought I opened it for the memory of my grandparents. Then, maybe my reasoning for opening was for the healing of our beloved New Orleans, but honestly, I believe now, in retrospect, that it was for my own healing that I needed to be there.” No matter the reason, locals were thrilled to have her back, showing their appreciation with lines spilling out the door. Patrons never seem to mind and say the light powdery frozen treat is well worth the wait. Each snoball is made of shaved-to-order ice. The family calls it a Sno-Bliz and it doesn’t disappoint coming doused in house-made syrups crafted each day from family recipes created by Ashley’s grandmother. They have about 30 flavors, including
traditional favorites like cream of nectar and spearmint, and newer all natural recipes created by Ashley like ginger, satsuma, honey lavender, and vanilla bean.
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New Orleans snoball lovers know a good thing! Hansen’s Sno-Bliz received the 2014 James Beard Foundation America’s Classics Award. Only locally owned establishments in business for at least 10 years are considered. Five establishments were recognized in 2014. “It is the highest culinary award achievable in the United States,” said Ashley who remembers receiving the voice mail from the president of the James Beard Foundation. “It was the beginning of our 75th year, so I thought maybe she was calling to congratulate us on our accomplishment.” When she learned they had won an America's Classics Award, she couldn’t believe it. “Not in my wildest dream did I ever think our snoball shop would have received this fame!” “These honorees represent the unique American dream of people who have created enduring, quality restaurants and food establishments that reflect the character and hospitality of their cities and community,” said Susan Ungaro, president of the James Beard Foundation. Ashley said her grandparents would have been proud of this award. “The stand received this award, I believe, because of our multi-generational commitment to quality. We are a little cinderblock stand on the corner of Tchoupitoulas St. that reflects the neighborhood and our community. We are part of the history and the ‘living’ fabric that makes up New Orleans. We also make everything like they did. We still use the machine that my grandfather built in 1939. I always want it to look the same. After 76 years of collecting memories, it would be a mistake to erase a single one of them. We are consistently delicious! There is nothing like a Hansen's Sno-Bliz!”
For Ashley, keeping Ernest and Mary’s spirits alive is extremely important. She watched her grandparents give of themselves and their talents throughout their career. “They taught me how to love and how to give of yourself.” Ashley makes a point to recognize her customers as friends just like her grandparents did. Mary was a wonderful role model helping Ashley perfect her ease with customers. Her grandparents also taught her to always do her best. “Their motto was, ‘There are no shortcuts to quality!’ They wanted you to strive to be the best at whatever you wanted to be. They did so lovingly and with positive encouragement.” In addition to her grandparents’ lessons, Ashley said Ursuline taught her to be confident, follow a path, and walk to her own beat. “You may not know where it goes, but in faith you put one foot in front of the other. Upon graduation, I realized that I could compete with kids that went to other schools and for the first time, outshine them!” Ashley also said her speech teacher, Mrs. Nolan, was very influential. “I was extremely shy. That class has helped me throughout life in speaking with customers and speaking in front of thousands at the James Beard Award at Lincoln
A L U M N A E R AV E A B O U T Louise Jumel (Sioux 1984) “Hansen's Cream of Nectar - It makes my eyes roll and the stress leave my body. When Hansen's is closed during the off-season, just driving by makes me smile.”
Center. Ursuline gives you the tools to succeed.” Ashley continues to use those tools and the lessons from her grandparents. 2015 marked the stand’s 76th year of making summers in New Orleans just a little more tolerable! Being a part of family traditions for generations is a wonderful way to define success.
Hansen's:
Deana Palmisano Lejarza (Skip 1989) “To me, snoballs are an inspiration to my artwork. They are colorful and appeal to so many. I grew up loving Hansen's. They are just plain fun!
Lisa Huey (Mac 1982) “Only in New Orleans do we eat snoballs. Everywhere else they eat snow cones. As a kid my favorite was plain old ice. Nothing like that powdered goodness on a hot day. Now my favorite is Hansen's satsuma. My mouth is watering.”
Terri Thibodeaux Stuckey (Sioux 1981) “I remember their flavors were delicious and I remember the twins [Ashley and her sister Allison] were in the shop (maybe about 5 years old) when I went there as a high school student.”
Sharon Jones Martin (Sioux 1984) “Nectar with condensed milk is the best!! Love Hansen's!”
Charlene Campeaux Boss (Mac 1982) “One of the many foods I miss not living in NOLA. [My] favorites are [from] Hansen's!"
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Forever in our Hearts
Sister Teresita Rivet, OSU Sister Mary Teresita Rivet, OSU was born Inez Marie Rivet on June 27, 1920, in New Orleans, LA. She graduated from Ursuline Academy in 1936, and enrolled in the College until she entered the Ursuline Convent on January 15, 1939 at the age of 19. On July 16, 1941, she professed her vows, making her final profession in New Orleans in 1944. Her religious name and dedication was Mary Teresita of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. In January 2015, Sr. Teresita celebrated her 76th year as an Ursuline Sister. Sister Teresita earned a B.A. degree from Saint Louis University in 1945, an M.A. degree from Catholic University of America in 1957, and in 1973, she completed certification at Tulane University as a reading specialist. This training led her to many Ursuline ministry assignments as a teacher, a principal, a prioress ... a leader. Soeur T, as she was lovingly named by her young French students, served as Elementary School Teacher and 26
Principal; Supervisor for the Central Province Ursuline Schools and the Dallas/Fort Worth Diocese Schools; Prioress of the New Orleans Ursulines Community; Provincial for the Ursulines of the Western Province; Missionary at Saint Mary's in Alaska; creator and first Director of the Ursuline Child Care Learning Center in Crystal City, MO in 1985.
Her kind, loving and winning nature led to valued relationships with her Ursuline Sisters, the clergy, her students, parents and her dear fellow alumnae. Countless will also remember her serving as the UA Mission Day Doll Contest and Cash Raffle Coordinator, as well as, the Ursuline Christmas Boutique Coordinator for many years. Her final positions at Ursuline Academy in New Orleans were as the Early Childhood Division French Teacher, as well as, the Sacristan and Wedding Coordinator for the National Shrine of Our Lady of Prompt Succor.
In 2007, ill health prompted Sister Teresita's move to live in retirement at the Ursuline Queen of Peace Community in Alton, Illinois. Sister was able to return to the Academy for a visit in 2010 as the specially honored guest at the dedication of the newly completed, state-of-the-art Soeur Teresita Rivet, OSU Early Childhood Learning Center. In May 2014, Sister Teresita, once again, joyfully returned to her beloved New Orleans to reside at Our Lady of Wisdom Healthcare Center, where she received wonderful care and visits from her many family members and friends during the last months of her life. Sister Teresita Rivet died peacefully on March 19, 2015. The daughter of Maurice Joseph Rivet and Inez Jung Rivet, she was preceded in death by her parents, one brother, Maurice Joseph Rivet, Jr., and two sisters, Marjorie Marie Rivet Cambre and Doris Marie Rivet Macgowan. She is survived by two sisters, Marie-Louise Rivet Morris and Janet Marie Rivet Anderson and many devoted nieces and nephews.
Remembering Soeur T
"I thought she had such a sweet face that glowed and was just about the kindest person I had ever met. She always saw and counted on the good in us." - Laurelee Roger Toscano ’60 "Mother Teresita has always been 'Ursuline' in my mind. She was so loved by parents and students." - Judie Gabler Tidwell ’63 "Wonderful memories of Soeur T. So gentle and joyful with the girls. Beautiful person, and so glad that we had the time with her that we did. She touched so many lives." - Michelle Jacomino Weaver ’91 "Mother Teresita was by far my favorite teacher in grade school. She was so sweet, so kind. She left a lasting impression on me and is one of my fondest memories of Ursuline." - Mary Jurado Johns ’61 "Soeur T led a life devoted to Ursuline and to the generations of girls whose lives she touched." - Maureen Mock Verderame ’66 "She was a beautiful person, inside and out. I always felt that she would be a part of Ursuline forever and she definitely was." - Sandra Quaglino Lilly ’62 "I think she enjoyed being a true lady and nun along with being a teacher and friend to all that she met. I am sure Joan Marie and Damian are welcoming her to the party right about now." - Charlotte Milazzo ’97 "Sister Teresita was so happy when she finally returned home to New Orleans. On our last visit to Our Lady of Wisdom, as my husband Bill and I were leaving, I said 'Good-bye, Sister ... I love you' and she answered, 'I love you too, Pat ... I've loved you since you were a little girl." I will always remember and cherish her final words to me. Soeur T, my love always." - Pat Walt Hays ’56
Opposite page: Soeur T with students after the May Crowning in the 2006-07 school year. Above: Soeur T at the dedication of the Sister Teresita Rivet, OSU Early Childhood Learning Center in 2010
"Her joyful, loving spirit and beautiful smile will forever remain in my memories. Sr. Teresita always gave of herself and was dedicated to the Ursuline ideals. A true Ursuline Girl! Thank you, Sr. T for paving the way for young women and touching the lives of so many people." - Christy Jackson Zurcher ’00, Director of Alumnae 27
2014 Distinguished Alumna
Ann Valentino Fuselier 1963
Ann Valentino Fuselier 1963, has been chosen by the Ursuline Alumnae Association of New Orleans, with the approval of the Academy President and the Ursuline Sisters, to be the 2014 Ursuline Distinguished Alumna. This award is annually bestowed upon a graduate of Ursuline Academy or Ursuline College of New Orleans who demonstrates the core values and ideals of an Ursuline education in all aspects of her life. Since 1986, 46 women have received this honor, making it one of Ursuline’s most prestigious awards. Ann attended Ursuline for 13 years and graduated as a Sioux of 1963. Upon graduating from Ursuline, Ann earned a Bachelor of Science from Louisiana State University in 1967. One year later, she married Dr. Harold A. Fuselier, Jr. Together they have four sons, Harry, Scott, Prentice and Mims, and five grandchildren. Ann is active in the Ursuline community and gives much of her time back to her Alma Mater in the spirit of Serviam. Merle Segura, classmate and friend says, “Ann Fuselier is an outstanding Ursuline alumna. She exemplifies Serviam in all aspects of her life – as a Catholic, wife, mother, daughter and community volunteer. She appreciates the significant impact her 13 years of Ursuline education made on her life and has devoted many hours in giving back to her Alma Mater.” Ann’s service to Ursuline is exemplified through her role as a member of the Ursuline Academy Board of 28
Trustees. Throughout the years, she has also assisted with capital campaigns, Serviam Annual Fund Drives as well as other events hosted by the Academy. Her service to the community also shines through many facets. She is a Junior League Sustainer, member of the Order of St. Lazarus; Board Member of the Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center Foundation, Department of Psychiatry; Archdiocese of New Orleans Spirituality Center Board of Trustees Member; Catholic Women in Action Board Member; Member of the Advisory Board for the Catholic Cultural Heritage Center at the Old Ursuline Convent; Executive Committee Member of La Fête du Jardin; Emeritus Board Member of the HermannGrima/Gallier Historic Houses; and is a member of the New Orleans Opera’s Women’s Guild Board of Governors. She is also a Young Aspiration/Young Artists (YA/YA) Fundraiser Chairman and Mentor Volunteer at Good Shepherd Nativity School where she created a partnership between the two to help solidify Good Shepherd Nativity’s arts enrichment program. Ann is a true leader and an inspiration to all women who are called to serve. She maintains a balance between all of her service projects and does so with happiness and grace. She is devoted to helping others and making a difference in the community. “As a strong faith-filled leader in our community, she brings joy, humility and dedicated service to every project she engages. Her giving of time and talent to such a broad spectrum of causes in our community is most impressive,” said Patricia Denechaud, lifelong friend and classmate. Ann is a beautiful example of St. Angela’s words: “You have more need to serve others, than they have to be served.” Ann has proven time and again to be a model of selflessness and of diligence. Verna Landrieu, Distinguished Alumna and Class of 1950, said, “She has always been one to be trusted with responsibility to get a job done.” Gretchen Kane, former Academy President said, “That call to selfless service, represented by the Ursuline ideal, Serviam, beautifully captures who Ann is.” Ann is the fourth Distinguished Alumna to follow in the footsteps of her mother in receiving this prestigious honor. Ursuline Academy is proud to honor Ann Valentino Fuselier ’63 as Distinguished Alumna.
S C H O L A R LY The gift of knowledge is priceless. Ursuline Academy is thrilled to announce the addition of seven new scholarships at the high school and middle school level. SCHOLARSHIPS ESTABLISHED IN 2014-15, AVAILABLE FOR DISTRIBUTION IN THE 2016-17 SCHOOL YEAR: The Peyroux-Taylor Scholarship funded by Robert and Donna Peyroux Taylor 1976 The Superior Energy Scholarship funded by Superior Energy
NEW SCHOLARSHIPS FOR MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS Sister Teresita Rivet Scholarship funded by Wayne and Jackie Leonard Sister Teresita Rivet Family Scholarship funded by the family of Sister Teresita Rivet
The Emanuel and Madeleine Blessey Family Scholarship funded by Emanuel and Madeleine Simmons Blessey 1959 The Valda Gisevius Scholarship funded by Joan Gisevius Johnson 1961 SCHOLARSHIP ESTABLISHED IN 2015-16, AVAILABLE FOR DISTRIBUTION IN THE 2017-18 SCHOOL YEAR: Deborah Augustine Elam Leadership Scholarship funded by Deborah Augustine Elam 1979
CURRENT SCHOLARSHIPS President's Merit Award Principal's Merit Award Gironde Merit Award Alumnae Scholarship Helen and Vincent McGrail Scholarship
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miracles | alumnae babies
Top row, from left: Addison Elizabeth Rascoe, Alis Marie Morrell, Isabella Grace Knox, Luke Joseph Barrabee, Abbey Lynn Kottemann, Cole Christopher Brooks, William Lockwood Wernet, Elaine Genevieve Hartings | Second row: Travis Joseph Mazac, Oliver Grant Holstead, Parker Presley Flotte, Francis Christian Bagley, Andrew Shawn Vidrine, Samuel Louis Sannino, Emma Claire Ganucheau, Ann Riess Reaves | Third row: Claire Cerise Kelley, Olivia Delton Tichy, Evelyn Rose and Magdalyn Elise Pearce, Aribelle Claire Maynard, Luke Allen Thorne, William Ryan Borsch, Zoe Rae Williams, James Lousteau Weeks | Fourth row: Logan Jacob Rude, Louis Joseph Roche, Anna Claire Barrois, Patrick Joseph Cutrer | Bottom row: Flynn Jameson Cain
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Lee & Stephanie Gemmolva Ganucheau ’90 a daughter, Emma Claire
Charles & Jennifer Edwards Maynard ’00 a daughter, Aribelle Claire
Roger & Colleen Fabacher Rude ’90 a son, Logan Jacob
Jacob & Mary Lousteau Roche ’00 a son, Louis Joseph
Ed & Dr. Rechelle Diaz Brooks ’93 a son, Cole Christopher
Jody & Leeann Geraci Vidrine ’00 a son, Andrew Shawn
Jim & Jessica Gomez Cain ’93 a son, Flynn Jameson
Les & Aimee Breland Barrois ’01 a daughter, Anna Claire
Thor & Shauntel Marie Mazac ’93 a son, Travis Joseph
Aaron & Kelly Varnado Knox ’01 a daughter, Isabella Grace
Beau & Monica Guarino Bagley ’94 a son, Francis Christian
Nicholas & Kelli Cook Morrell ’01 a daughter, Alis Marie
Timmy & Melissa Gonsoulin Flotte ’96 a son, Parker Presley
Brandon & Kristy Lane Rascoe ’01 a daughter, Addison Elizabeth
Champ & Dr. Leslie Lousteau Weeks ’96 a son, James Lousteau
Kyle & Tina Treuil Sannino ’01 a son, Samuel Louis
Matthew & Elizabeth Macaluso Barrabee ’97 a son, Luke Joseph
David & Kayla Smith Wernet ’01 a son, William Lockwood
Garrett & Jennie Covington Tichy ’98 a daughter, Olivia Delton
Carland & Anne Pennebaker Holstead ’02 a son, Oliver Grant
Ryan & Malinda Majeau Kelley ’99 a daughter, Claire Cerise
Matthew & Chantrelle Farley Williams ’02 a daughter, Zoe Rae
Matthew & Shannon Pritchett Kottemann ’99 a daughter, Abbey Lynn
Matthew & Mairin LeBlanc Cutrer ’03 a son, Patrick Joseph
Gaven & Amelia Farmer Reaves ’99 a daughter, Ann Riess
Jeremy & Heidi Windmann Hartings ’04 a daughter, Elaine Genevieve
Jeff & Jessica Kwiatkowski Thorne ’99 a son, Luke Allen
Dr. F. Bennett Jr. & Amanda Favret Pearce ’04 twin daughters,
Adam & Julie Chaix Borsch ’00 a son, William Ryan
Evelyn Rose and Magdalyn Elise 31
weddings | alumnae marriages
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Ashley Floyd ’99 and Derrick Manuel
Kate Holley ’01 and Daniel Nunez
Katherine Staiano ’99 and Jonathan Walker
Valerie Waguespack ’01 and Steven Brolin
Jennifer Nicholson ’00 and Joe Klotz
Kristen Brown ’03 and Jacob Saladino
Lane Zeringue ’00 and Robert Daspit
Bianca Gordon ’03 and Eugene Wilson, III
Amanda Guillot ’01 and Myles Martin
Amanda Taylor ’03 and John Simonson
Julie Gordy ’04 and Matthew Villio Barbara Bolotte ’05 and Dean Blank Vittoria Soleto Latapie ’05 and Walter Ralph Latapie III Andrea Blaize ’06 and Taylor Alphonso Meghann Harney ’06 and Alex Rooney Kortney Schroeder ’08 and Adam Bennett Breann Sokol ’09 and Patrick Daigle
Top row, from left: Valerie Waguespack Brolin '01, Meghann Harney Rooney '06, Vittoria Soleto Latapie '05, Bianca Gordon Wilson '03, Andrea Blaize Alphonso '06, Breann Sokol Daigle '09 Bottom row: Kate Holley Nunez ’01, Ashley Floyd Manuel ’99, Kortney Schroeder Bennett ’08, Amanda Guillot Martin ’01, Kristen Brown Saladino ’03, Barbara Bolotte Blank ’05, Jennifer Nicholson Klotz ’00 33
1937 C1941
Lois Manint Meyer’s oral history is part of the National WWII Museum’s educational poster that was sent out to all partner schools. Lois enlisted in the Marines and was in the first officer class of the United States Marine Corps Women’s Reserve. In her oral history, she briefly talks about her upbringing at Ursuline and her call to join the Marines. She also talks about women in the military and the adversity she faced as a woman.
1941 C1945
Kathryn Gallo celebrated her 91st birthday. She is a retired Jefferson Parish Public School teacher.
her devotion to the ideals of courtesy, loyalty, and courage. She exemplifies the spirit of Serviam by contributing her time and talent far beyond whatever might be expected of her responsibility to Ursuline. Aloha is the mother and grandmother of Ursuline alumnae, and greatgrandmother of two current students. She has devoted many years to the Academy.
1951
Suzanne St. Mard Jung received a beloved Christmas gift from her three children. They knew how much she would love it so they surprised her with a statue of Our Lady of Prompt Succor. She was immediately in tears and went on
1946
Sr. Rosemary Meiman, OSU retired as Archivist for the Ursuline Sisters of the Central Province and moved to New Orleans where she will be the Archivist for the Ursuline Convent New Orleans.
C1950
The late Pat Taylor was inducted into the Ye Olde College Inn’s New Orleans Prep Hall of Fame.
1950
Aloha Collins was inducted as an Honorary Alumna during Ursuline’s Baccalaureate Mass on May 16, 2015. An honorary alumna is a woman who has demonstrated, through her service, her love for the Academy, and
About Alumnae 34
to explain to her granddaughter what Our Lady of Prompt Succor means to her. Her granddaughter said that she could tell her love and appreciation for Ursuline has only grown more and more since her graduation.
1954
Gertie Beauford entertained the Count Dominique de Savelli, Julian Poydras heir. He lectured on the Poydras Family history and the family chateau “La Gascherie” in Brittany near Nantes, France. Gertie’s mother received the famous bride’s dowry when she married in 1935. Merrill Richard Zeringue was featured in the St. Charles Parish Herald Guide for her community outreach. Merrill
is a longtime member of the St. Charles Art Guild and a retired counselor and teacher. She helps teach art to senior citizens in her parish. She also reaches out to children during Destrehan Plantation’s Heritage Day where she teaches them about art as well as plantation life.
1959
The Skipperettes of 1959 got together in Madisonville for their annual Christmas luncheon at the home of Bobby and Jane Harvey, son and daughter-in-law of Charlene Blanchard Shelton. Those in attendance, in addition to hostess Charlene, were Susan Ducasse Aparicio, Andrée Bertheaud Stutts, Sandra Gelis Wich, Barbara Gilbert
Higgins, Renée Roubion Lattimore, Cathy Richaud Stein, Maldry Barrios Breaux, Kathryn Eberle Wildgen, Maryann Cutler Cook, Nancy Amato Konrad, and Kathleen O'Donnell Gendusa. Café Lynn catered the delicious meal. This second Christmas luncheon continues what promises to be a wonderful Skips '59 tradition.
1960
Suzanne Juge Sale’s French Quarter painting was purchased by NCIS New Orleans to use on the set in the weekly series.
1963
Pat Crouere Denechaud was chosen as one of The American Cancer Society’s 2014 Rock Goddesses for the Belles and Beaus Ball. Dr. Dolliann Margaret Hurtig, Ph.D., Associate Professor of French at Louisiana Tech University, was honored in an official ceremony at University Hall on the Louisiana Tech Campus. Dr. Hurtig was knighted and received the title Chevalier dans l’Ordre des Palmes Académiques de France by the Consul General of France, Grégor Trumel. This honor is bestowed upon a professor or a member of the community for outstanding work in promoting the French language and culture and for contributions of exceptional value to the profession as a French language educator. Napoléon I established Palmes Académiques as a title as early as 1808 to acknowledge the outstanding achievements of members of the University. Napoléon III made it a formal decoration in 1866. The Palmes Académiques remains the oldest non-military decoration in France.
1963
Anne Lousteau had her artwork displayed for the very first time at Ariodante Gallery in New Orleans. Her work is acrylic on canvas and also includes some mixed media. Her style is abstract expressionism. Four of the paintings sold to the VA Hospital in New Orleans.
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1965
Patricia Fitzmorris Danflous is a freelance writer and has recently taken on the cover/feature article editorship of INSPIRE HEALTH Magazine which focuses on healthy living in body, mind and soul.
Convent to see the “Praying for a Miracle: The Catholic Church and The Battle of New Orleans” exhibit.
1968
Anne Pozzi Castilee is currently principal of Early College Academy in Lafayette, LA. ECA is a Lafayette Parish high school located on the campus of South Louisiana Community College. Her students earn a high school diploma and an associate’s degree during their four years at ECA. Emery Clark Whalen is the Executive Director for the John Besh Foundation.
1972
Michele Bernard Mehrabadi’s store, MAGID BERNARD, moved to downtown Los Angeles after occupying the last location for 15 years. They also celebrated the opening of their new flagship store in Beverly Hills. It has on hand ready-to-wear collections from Magid Bernard, Magid Bernard Homme and Plaid Cloud, as well as treasures from the Beverly Hills General Store.
1975
Katherine Landry was installed as President of the 1,000 member East Jefferson General Hospital Auxiliary. The Auxiliary owns and manages a gift shop in the hospital with all funds going to the hospital’s special needs. It also supports the Breast Care Center and furnishes equipment and gowns for the mammography department. Poppy Tooker Mouledoux won third place in Radio Entertainment for WWNO-FM Louisiana Eats!: On the Record with Donald Link: Candid Stories from a Bold Chef at the 2015 Excellence in Journalism Awards for the Press Club of New Orleans. She also placed first for WWNO-FM Louisiana Eats!: California Field Trip: Lessons from the American Harvest Workshop.
1976
The Merry Macs of 1976 have get-togethers once per month. One of the gatherings was at the Old Ursuline
About Alumnae 36
1977
Loretta Krentel Krasnow, breast cancer survivor, was the guest speaker at Ursuline’s Pink Game pep rally.
1979
Troi Bechet was nominated for Best Supporting Actress in a Drama for her role in The Night of the Iguana, Southern Rep at the 2015 Big Easy Theater Awards.
1980
Gwendolyn Rainey founded the Mystic Krewe of Femme Fatale. The Mystic Krewe of Femme Fatale has been formed and incorporated with the State of Louisiana. The mission of the Mystic Krewe of Femme Fatale shall be to offer women of all creeds and colors a unique opportunity to promote and support New Orleans’ cultural landscape through participation in the annual Mardi Gras season, while uplifting the community through various endeavors of engagement, awareness and social enhancement in order to further the growth of the organization.
1982
Jo Ann Thrailkill-Castelaz, founder of The Pablove Foundation, launched Pablove Shutterbugs in partnership with Children’s Hospital New Orleans, Tulane Medical Center, and Ochsner Health. Pablove Shutterbugs debuted photography from 24 Louisiana children and teens. The program teaches children and teens living with cancer to develop their creative voices through the art of photography.
1983
Richele Theodore completed certification requirements to become a Drug Analysis Fellow of the American Board of Criminalistics. Ms. Theodore received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Chemistry from Xavier University of Louisiana in 1987 and completed four years of doctoral studies in Analytical Chemistry at Texas A&M University (College Station, Texas). She joined the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences Drug Chemistry Laboratory as a Forensic Chemist in 1997 and also performed gunshot residue analyses in the Trace Evidence Laboratory for over eight years. Ms. Theodore is a member of the Southwestern Association of Forensic Scientists (SWAFS) where she currently serves on the Membership Committee and thrived as the Journal Editor from 2009-2011 (she was a former photographer and editor of Ursuline’s yearbook for several years). She formerly worked with Texaco Chemical Company (Austin Research Laboratories) and
Texaco Refining and Marketing, Inc. (Bakersfield, CA) as a Research and Senior Chemist, respectively.
1984
Dedra Newman Castle was voted by Black Enterprise as one of the 50 most powerful women in corporate America. The final 50 were chosen from the thousands of women in positions of leadership from numerous industries across America overseeing budgets totaling billions of dollars. Stephanie Buerger Kern, owner of The Green Fork, opened a second location. The Green Fork is a smoothie and juice bar as well as a vegetarian/vegan restaurant. The Green Fork made the Top 10 Juice Bars in the country according to Condé Nast Traveler.
1985
Kristin Gisleson-Palmer was honored as one of 25 role models at the Young Leadership Council’s Role Model Awards Gala. Michele Tabary Robert was chosen as one of New Orleans City Business’ 2014 Health Care Heroes. Michele is co-owner of Fidelis Residential Care Homes. She has been a Registered Nurse for over 20 years. Deborah Toscano received her Master’s in Political Science with Honors from the University of New Orleans in May 2015. She was inducted to Pi Sigma Alpha, the National Political Science Honor Society, and to Phi Kappa Phi, All Discipline Honor Society. Deborah co-authored and presented a paper at the Southern Political Science Association’s conference in New Orleans in January 2015 and the Midwest Political Science Association's conference in Chicago in April 2015. She is currently pursuing her doctorate at UNO.
1986
Yvette Hargis won a 2015 Big Easy Theater Award, Best Supporting Actress in a Drama for her role in Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, The NOLA Project. Jill LeCesne Potter is the Director of Programs for Urban Gateways. She oversees the daily operations of Residency and Performance Programs across a diverse sector of
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school and community-based learning environments. She holds a BA in Fine Arts – Art History from the University of New Orleans.
modeling their Lakefront Lighthouse ruffle romper. Emma Claire is the daughter of Laura’s classmate, Stephanie Gemmolva Ganucheau ’90.
1987
1991
Elizabeth Ferry Pekins’ art quilt, "Nightly Passage," was published in the October/ November 2013 edition of "Quilting Arts Magazine" as one of twelve finalists from over 130 entries in their Passages reader challenge. It depicts a cave with a translucent air passage showing bats making their nightly trek past the cavern walls and into the night sky to feed. This is the third time one of her textile art pieces has been published in a magazine. Also, one of Elizabeth’s art quilts was displayed on the set of the ninth season of "Quilting Arts TV," a nationally televised art quilting program shown on PBS.
1992
Anna Bertucci Ghelase has been promoted to Associate at Sizeler Thompson Brown Architects. She has also recently received her healthcare certification from the American Academy of Healthcare Architects, and is only one of five in the state and the second woman in the state to achieve this certification.
1989
Danielle Rome-Briggs was awarded Teacher of the Year for 2013-2014.
Kristin Van Hook Moore M.D. serves as Business Council Director on the Board of Directors for Junior League of New Orleans.
1990
1993
Laura Arnette McPhail is the designer and creative director of Monkey Hill Apparel, New Orleans’ newest kids clothing line. Monkey Hill Apparel is so happy to have the darling Emma Claire (pictured)
About Alumnae 38
Ashley Hansen Springgate was chosen as one of New Orleans Magazine’s 2014 Top Female Achievers.
Lisa Denning, photographer, filmmaker and owner of Ocean Eyes Photography had the opportunity of a lifetime.
She was able to photograph a very rare type of whale, Blainville’s beaked whales. Not only did she capture them, she was able to spend about 25 minutes in the water with them. This particular whale spends most of its time in the depths of the ocean and are some of the deepest diving whales. On this particular day, the two young whales stayed pretty close to Lisa and one even got a little playful by slapping his tail at her in response to her flapping her fins.
2000
Sarah Barrow was featured in Offbeat Magazine. She is known as the “Coconut Lady” and has been painting Zulu coconuts for about 9 years. Sarah paints about 4,000-
1996
Cherie Melancon Franz was chosen as one of Gambit’s “40 Under 40.” She is the founder of Thinkerella, an educational program that inspires children ages 3-13 to fall in love with science. Thinkerella provides STEAM activities (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) through mobile labs, birthday parties and afterschool programs. Tiffany Zeno, an Emmy-nominated news producer for NBCUniversal, Inc. was honored as one of Xavier University of New Orleans’ “40 Under 40.”
1998
Catherine DiGiorgio finished as a dermatology resident at Louisiana State University in June 2015 and started her fellowship in laser dermatology at Mass General Hospital through Harvard Medical School. Meghan Kincade was inducted into the Bucks County “Forty Under 40 – Class of 2014.” The program recognizes 40 up-and-coming business and community leaders who are making a difference in Bucks & Montgomery Counties. The honorees were selected from among a pool of candidates nominated by members of the Bucks & Montgomery County communities. Meghan is the Director of Social Services for the Bucks County Housing Group.
1999
Dr. Jeaneen A. Chappell is a board certified dermatologist. She was selected to be the 2015 American Academy of Dermatology Translational Biotechnology Fellowship. She is completing her fellowship abroad in partnership with Galderma Research & Development Laboratory, SNC in Sophia Antipolis, France.
6,000 coconuts a year. Offbeat referred to her as “… a kindergarten teacher at KIPP Leadership Academy by day, Coconut Lady by night.” Photo by Elsa Hahne Casey Magee Maenza created Happy Soul Apparel, an online t-shirt store, with the hope of inspiring others to find happiness and to love life despite the struggles they face. After losing her dad, uncle, and fellow Ursuline friend to suicide, she knew that she wanted to make a difference by turning her pain into purpose and help others find joy by spreading a positive message. For every shirt sold, Casey donates $3 to non-profit organizations that support mental health initiatives. Kristen Rivero Ragan has been promoted to Chief Chemist of the Jefferson Parish Water Quality Laboratory. Kristen is the first female to hold this position.
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2005
Katherine Smith Sotolongo earned her Professional Engineering license for Civil Engineering in January 2015. Shortly after becoming licensed, Katherine applied to the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) to be part of their inaugural Emerging Engineers and Surveyors Group. The group is tasked with discussing and providing feedback about the future of engineering and licensure. Katherine was selected to be one of the twelve group members from the over 600 applicants. She will serve for one calendar year. She strives to live Serviam and she saw this as an opportunity “to serve” her engineering community. Katherine currently works for Engineering & Inspection Services in Metairie, LA. She also volunteers her time as treasurer to her local civic association.
2007
Dody Nolan was nominated for Best Supporting Actress in a Musical at the 2015 Big Easy Theater Awards for her role as Fantine in Tulane Summer Lyric’s Les Miserables.
2008
Cristy Asturias Cali was chosen as one of New Orleans Magazine’s “People to Watch – Class of 2014.” Cristy is the CEO and Jewelry Designer of Cristy’s Collection. Cristy recently completed an eight-week program at the Gemological Institute of America in California. During that time, she took a jewelry design course where she learned the CAD/CAM program. After completing the course, she can now turn her drawings and ideas into 3D format herself, helping her be a more hands-on jewelry designer. Brindley McWhorter portrayed the Principessa in Suor Angelica and Zita in Gianni Schicchi for Loyola University New Orleans’ 2015 production. She was the mezzo soloist in both the Loyola Chorale’s performance of Handel’s Messiah and Loyola University Chorus’ performance of Mozart’s Requiem. She has sung in the chorus of the New Orleans Opera Association for two seasons.
2010
Brooke Long graduated from TCU with a degree in Geology and entered the Master’s Program at South Dakota School of Mines & Technology. She is fully funded as the Graduate Research Assistant to Dr. Anderson, Head
About Alumnae 40
of Department & Professor of Geology & Geological Engineering. She attended the 4th International Palaeontological Congress in Argentina.
2011
Brennan Ferguson completed two internships while attending Alfred University. She has a brief internship at Pacific NW Labs (where Plutonium was created) and a paid internship at the Max Plank Institute in Dusseldorf, Germany. She co-authored a paper in The Journal of Physical Chemistry. Brennan was chosen as Alfred University’s Marlin Miller Outstanding Senior Woman for the Class of 2015. She will address the graduating class at commencement. A high GPA, extracurricular activities and personal character were the requirements for nomination. Madelyn Skinner graduated from Royal Holloway, University of London with a First-class honours degree in Management with Marketing. She attends King's College, London and is studying for a Master of Science degree in International Marketing. Charlotte McLoughlin enjoyed three-and-a-half years at The University of Southern Mississippi as a collegiate athlete on the golf team. She graduated with a degree in Broadcast Journalism and a minor in Spanish in December 2014. Charlotte has accepted a job with The Golf Channel (NBC Golf) and will be traveling the Americas to various golf tournaments. She is excited to be based out of New Orleans and is ready to get back to Ursuline to be more involved! Ever since receiving the Cor Unum Award in 2011, she felt it her duty to give back to Ursuline as much as it's given to her.
2012
Tori Marcel will graduate from Louisiana State University in May 2016 with a major in Psychology and a Minor in Biology. She plans to then apply to Physician Assistant School because she would like to be an Orthopedic Pediatric Physician Assistant. While in college, she joined Alpha Phi as a charter member. She is currently Chapter President of the Delta Tau chapter of Alpha Phi. She is also a LSU Ambassador. Natalie Paul is the Vice-President of the Student Government Association at Loyola University New
Orleans. Her involvement with SGA began freshman year as the Freshman Senator for the College of Social Sciences. She continued her involvement the next two years on the SGA University Programming Board. She will finish her senior year as Vice-President. She is also President of the Eta Theta Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority at Loyola. Natalie traveled to Buffalo, New York where she attended the 2015 National Jesuit Student Leadership Conference (NJSLC) hosted at Canisius College. This conference is held annually and includes all of the Jesuit colleges and universities in the United States. This was her second time attending NJSLC as she traveled to Santa Clara, California in 2013. During that time, she was entering her sophomore year and represented the BSU (Black Student Union) as the 2013-2014 President. Rachel Romero is a rising senior studying Biomedical Engineering at Tulane University in New Orleans. At Tulane, Rachel is the president of her sorority Chi Omega as well as the Vice President of Communications for the School of Science and Engineering. In addition, she is a tour guide for the university, an active member of various engineering clubs, and has been on the executive planning board for Tulane's annual festival Crawfest for the past three years. Outside of academics, Rachel is an intern with the commercialization department at New Orleans BioInnovation Center where she assists biotech startup companies with bringing their products to market. She also has a startup company of her own, encountOR, which is a patient tracking system. Rachel and her partners currently have a provisional patent on their technology and were finalists in Tulane's inaugural Novel Tech Challenge. In addition to the BioInnovation Center, Rachel interns during the summer at St. Charles Surgical Hospital. During her free time, Rachel races motocross and won her third national title this past November. Rachel hopes to attend law school after undergrad and pursue a career in patent law and biotechnology.
Sarah Treadaway served as Vice President of Recruitment for the Louisiana State University Panhellenic Council.
2014
Jenna Deemer became a Lady Tiger as she moved on to Louisiana State University, where she is a guard for the women’s basketball team. In her first year, she was one of 45 SEC student athletes named to the honor roll.
Washington D.C. Chapter Gathering
In December 2014, Academy President Karen McNay and Alumnae Director Christy Jackson Zurcher ’00 hosted an alumnae chapter gathering in the Washington, D.C. area. Karen and Christy took part in an educational trip through the Close Up Foundation with 49 Junior Skips and couldn’t be in the area without seeing other Ursuline girls!
Sisters Celebrate! C1936
Sr. Marie McCloskey, OSU celebrated her 101st Birthday on Mardi Gras Day - February 17, 2015!
1939 C1943
Sr. Mary Margaret Prenger, OSU celebrated her 70th Jubilee as an Ursuline Sister in 2015.
1962
Sr. Magdalita Roussel, OSU celebrated her 50th Jubilee as an Ursuline Sister in 2015.
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reunited!
Class of 1944
Sioux of 19 5
Macs of 19 6 4
Reunions 42
4
69 of 19 Sioux Skip s of 19 7
4
Ski p s of 19 8 9
Sioux of 19 84
Reunions 43
19 9 4 M ac s of
19 9 9 Sioux of
f 2009 o s c a M
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of 2 0 0
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ursuline alumnae association's
Summer Send-off
Macs of 2015 After graduating, our newest alumnae are invited back to campus for the “Summer Send-off � sponsored by the Alumnae Association. They have pizza, pick up their yearbooks, and visit with friends before heading off to college. 45
Alumnae Sister Teresita Rivet, OSU ’36, C’40 Yvonne Davila Treadway ’38, C’42 Alma Elliot Koehl C’39 Ellen Isabel “Izzy” Geheeb C’40 Bernice Peltier Harang ’40, C’44 Marguerite “Margie” Kehlor Crouchet ’44 Catherine “Cat” Edwards Weiss C’46 Geraldine “Gerry” Morasco Aucoin ’49 Paolita Begnaud Roden C’49 Sylvia Arnaud Gaffney ’50 Ida Chirieleison Mialaret ’50 Lorraine Fagot Brennan C’55 Raye Ann Vargas ’55 Irena Bazile Olasin ’52, C’56 Bonnie Joan Burt ’58 Sherry Ann “Sue” Blanchard Evans ’58 Ann Elizabeth Gronstedt Muller ’58 Eileen Duffy Helmke ’60 Mary Margaret Luck Weight ’64 AMH Mary Alice Caire Romero ’78 Trina Batiste ’82 Sharon McKinney Purnell ’84 Kimberly Gerdes ’93 AMH
Mother of Lynn Roubion Cheramie ’57 Joan Treadway Glaser ’61 Joan Doskey Vairin ’61 Betty Ann Doskey Vairin ’63 Patricia “Pat” Giglio Patron ’64 Pamela Ann Gauchet Schroeder ’67 Pamela Bonura Wakeman ’67 Georgene Falcone Johnson ’71 Elizabeth Mialaret '73 Julie Treadway Diecidue ’74 Patricia “Tricia” DeSautel Casey ’76 Elizabeth “Liz” Harney ’76 AMH Arrin Aucoin Gresse ’77 Terri DeSautel Dwyer ’78 Colleen Brennan Labat ’80 Laurie Randon Munster ’81
Husband of Marion Schexnayder Bruno ’46 Jacqueline Poche Powell ’50 Teresita “Tootsie” Williams Park ’52 Dorothy “Dot” Watkins Dorvin C’55 Connie Cahill Gay ’57 Katherine “Kathie” Stewart Keene ’59 Kathleen Ferro Foret ’60 Mary Jurado Johns ’61 Serena Ortis Lynn ’97
Father of Mickey Sciortino Faucheux ’61 Cherie Ann Sciortino Vaughan ’63 Jeanne Perret ’64 (DEC) Suzanne Perret Whittemore ’69 Aline Perret Hill ’72 Terry Dorvin Chamberlain ’74 Christina Park Delgado ’75 AMH Laura Favret Tobin ’76 Annette Green Alvarez ’79 Judith Gelpi Jackson ’79 Donelle Humphrey Franklin ’79 Tiffanie Vedros Roppolo ’81 Maria Cangemi ’83 AMH Tracie Ploger Mouton ’84 Mary Gay Schmitz ’84 Leslie Ploger Clement ’85 Sherrie Ploger Short ’87 Elizabeth “Betsy” Schmidt ’97 Monica Dupré Witherspoon ’99 Lauren Barré ’14
Sister of Marion Elliot Fourcade ’30 (DEC) Marjorie Rivet Cambre ’34 (DEC) Phyllis Elliot Dore C’36 (DEC) Rosemary Birbiglia Lytton ’38 (DEC) Doris Rivet Macgowan C’43 (DEC) Betty Haase Brown ’44 Janet Rivet Anderson ’49 Rita Kehlor Williams ’50 Myron Gogarty ’56 Jane Caire Fields ’80 Nancy Caire Giacone ’83
In Memoriam 46
Daughter of Stella Glynn Kehlor 1915 (DEC) Son of Annette Ruckstuhl Doskey ’48 AMH Jane Babst Truett ’56 Antoinette “Toni” Gray Bill ’58
Brother of Marjorie “Margie” McKay C ’41 Sally McNamara Reynolds ’50 Carolyn Coogan Schof ’57 Jean Gay Talbot ’57 Dorothy “Dottie” Gueringer Donnelly ’65 Sharon Moskau Marchand ’66 Jane Corey Scheuermann ’69 Andree Cressy Landry ’85
Grandfather of Nathalie Nelson Ward ’83 Michelle Jackson Higgins ’93 Erin Ashley ’99 Kristin Blaum Gonzalez ’00 Kathryn Ashley Peart ’00 Christy Jackson Zurcher ’00 Kelli Cook Morrell ’01 Amanda Favret Pearce ’04 Laure Cook ’05 Angela Demma Melle ’06 Molly Wiedemann ’06 Sarah Favret ’07 Emily Landry ’09 Sarah Parent ’10 Evan Cuccia ’11 Rebbeca Roppolo ’12 Elizabeth Allison ’13 Ashley Barbier ’14 Holly Corvers ’14 Kristen Landry ’14 Emily Roppolo ’15 Grandmother of Elizabeth “Liz” Batty Caliva ’87 Gretchen Van Vrancken Blanchard ’91 Amber Randazzo Peskin ’99 Kristen Rivero Ragan ’00 Stephanie Alfortish Brown ’01 Ashley Vogt ’02 Victoria Luwisch ’02 Katherine Heaton ’03 Bianca Gordon Wilson ’03 Jamie Baker Wong ’03 Jessica Baker ’04 Andrea Blaize ’06 Meghann Harney Rooney ’06 Elizabeth Ryan Casey ’07 Bridget Calongne ’08 Mary Alfortish ’09
Mother-in-law of Winnie Foret Harang 1914 (DEC) Maureen Cicero Dicharry ’65 (DEC) Marjorie Favret Caliri ’66 Janet Boulet Angelico ’70 Judy Lightfoot Caliva ’72 Gayle Daniel Johnson ’73 (DEC) Diana Pivach Alfortish ’76 Christine Flettrich Blaize ’80 Nadia Corzantes Haik ’84 Jennifer Labit Mumford ’97 Father-in-law of Kathy Rappold Blaum ’76 Rosa Corzantes McLaughlin ’82 Helen Honoree Myers ’84 Sister-in-law of Winnie Harang Kozelsky ’39 (DEC) Marie Louise Gouaux Harang ’41 (DEC) Catherine Harang Gouaux ’44 (DEC) Irma “Mickey” Geheeb Peltier C’44 (DEC) Madeleine Simmons Blessey ’59 Brother-in-law of Ione McKay Parham C’38 (DEC) Mary Alice Toso McKay ’46 Betty Cahill Kennedy ’62 Alice Lanusse Deano C’49 Aunt of Shelby Macgowan St. Romain ’65 Mary Lee Berner Harris ’66 Nancy Rivet Doerries ’72 Deborah Williams ’76 Kristen Burt Mansfield-Martin ’85 Sarah Parent ’10 Emily MacLaren ’14 Margaret “Meg” MacLaren ’17 Caroline MacLaren ’19
Uncle of Maureen McKay Poche ’75 Colleen Donnelly Lousteau ’85 Great Aunt of Colleen Berner Bordelon ’94 Rebecca Harris Treuting ’97 Katherine Doerries Hurst ’00 Mary Lee Harris ’03 Katharine Harris ’10 Jordan Richard ’15 Rachel Harris Sagers AME Great Uncle of Celeste Poche ’06 Molly Parham AME Cousin of Muriel Pfister C’38 (DEC) Mary Ellen Gillaspy Denning ’65 Ursuline Sisters Sister Teresita Rivet, OSU ’36, C’40 Sister Mary Carmel Rangel, OSU Sister Catherine Chandler, OSU
AME Associate Member, Elementary AMH Associate Member, High School AMC Associate Member, College DEC Deceased HM Honorary Member
If your name, or 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.
47
MAC CLASS OF 2015
Ursuline Academy conducted its 288th commencement exercise on May 16, 2015. Emilie Gagnet Leumas Ph.D., an Ursuline graduate of 1976 and Director of Archives and Records for the Archdiocese of New Orleans, delivered the commencement address to the graduates. The ceremony began with an invocation by Sr. Mary Anne Holmes, OSU, Prioress of the Ursuline Sisters of New Orleans. Ursuline Academy’s Dean of Students, Karen Mortillaro, served as Mistress of Ceremonies, while High School Principal Alice Bairnsfather and Academy President Karen Thomas McNay presented awards and diplomas to the graduating seniors. The 80 graduates earned a total of $5,613,086 in scholarships.
The valedictory addresses were delivered by Christiane E. Petitbon and Tiffany E. Yochum, the students who earned the highest cumulative averages. Christiane E. Petitbon, a resident of Metairie, is the daughter of John and Helene “Gwen” Petitbon. She is attending Louisiana State 48
University and is majoring in engineering. She received the LSU Academic Scholars Resident Award and Student Aid Job/Future Leaders Research Grant. Tiffany W. Yochum, a resident of River Ridge, is the daughter of Gregory and Ann Yochum. She is attending Spring Hill College. She received the Presidential Scholar Award. Earning the second highest cumulative average was salutatorian Katherine F. Jones. Katherine, a resident of New Orleans, is the daughter of Jeffrey and Bonnie Jones. She is attending Louisiana State University and is majoring in civil engineering. She received the LSU Academic Scholars Resident Award and Student Aid Job/Future Leaders Research Grant. The following students were ranked, along with the valedictorian and salutatorians, in the top ten of the graduating class: Caroline L. Cerminaro, Logan K. Franovich, Jensen A. Liljeberg, Holly R. Monk, Lauren M. Parker,
Abigail E. Sewell, and Kristen M. Vicknair. The two highest honors awarded by Ursuline Academy were bestowed on Mignon B. Blanc and Tiffany W. Yochum. Mignon Blanc received the Courtesy, Loyalty, Courage (CLC) Medal, awarded by the high school faculty to the student who exemplifies those three virtues. Tiffany Yochum received the Sedes Sapientiae Medal, awarded by the high school faculty to the senior whose scholarship, achievement and loyalty have been outstanding and consistent. The other graduates were Alexis A. Adamcewicz, Sarah J. Atherton, Camille E. Bache, Claudia P. Barry, Arianna M. Birdsall, Cassidy V. Blair, Mignon B. Blanc, Sarah L. Brandt, Emily M. Buck, Yoselie A. Castaneda, Caroline L. Cerminaro, Alexis L. Chapital, Sydney E. Clark, Bailey E. Clouatre, Emily C. Cotton, Isabelle B. Couvillion, Lauren A. Cuneo, Christie M. Cutrer, Grace L. Daigle, Isabella R. DeForest, Rachael A. DeRitter, Elise L. DiVincenti, Shelby F. Dunbar, Paige
K. Durel, Genevieve T. Farbe, Morgan L. Faust, Abigail V. Ferrara, Logan K. Franovich, Sarah E. Gassen, Rokaya J. Gharib, Tayler S. Harrison, Liza K. Hoeffner, Kathryn S. Hudson, Ellen R. Hymel, Madeline C. Kelly, Caroline O. Knowles, Kendall R. Lane, Celeste Y. Lavelle, JavantĂŠ B. Lawrence, Lauren E. Legendre, Jensen A. Liljeberg, Faith A. Love, Anna M. Lucchesi, Hannah M. Maney, Jenna E. Marshall, Ashley M. McKay, Anna E. Michiels, Holly R. Monk, Amelia J. Neville, Tina H. Nguyen, Lauren M. Parker, Garri A. Paul, Margaret T. Petty, Kelsy P. Prestenburg, Elisabeth R. Reed, Jordan L. Richard, Alexis Richardson, Jenna B. Rochon, Emily E. Roppolo, Madeleine R. Roy, Lyndsey L. Rudolph, Alexandra M. Sensenbrenner, Abigail E. Sewell, Brooke R. Simmons, Lindsay M. Smith, Mary Shannon Snellings, Alexandra B. SomeillĂĄn, Maya E. Suell, Kamri M. Sylve, Sabrina M. Taquino, Jessica K. Taylor, Domonique D. Thomas, Morgan T. Thompson, Robbielle C. Tillman, Jenna L. VanVeckhoven, Kristen M. Vicknair, and Kyla J. Zimmerman. 49
LEGACIES Legacies are graduates who have a mother and/or grandmother who is an alumna of Ursuline. Pictured (back row, from left) are Therese Dauer Barry ’64 (Claudia Barry), Jennifer Melancon Vicknair ’92 (Kristen Vicknair), Joakima White Blanc ’82 (Mignon Blanc), Helene Gwendolyn Youngblood Petitbon ’82 (Christiane Petitbon), Ongelle Necole Clouatre ’87 (Bailey Clouatre), Minny Mendoza Lavelle ’83 (Celeste Lavelle), Honorable Mary Landrieu ’73 and Verna Satterlee Landrieu ’50 (Mary Shannon Snellings), Verna Satterlee Landrieu ’50 and Honorable Madeleine Landrieu Sensenbrenner ’80 (Alexandra Sensenbrenner), Tiffanie Vedros Roppolo ’81 (Emily Roppolo), Vanessa Sierra ’91 (Alexandra Someillán) and Monique Felton Suell ’85 (Maya Suell).
LONGEVITY Longevity awards are presented to graduating seniors who have attended Ursuline Academy since kindergarten or before. Pictured (from left) Katherine Jones, Lauren Cuneo, Lauren Parker, Shelby Dunbar, Abigail Sewell and Alexis Chapital.
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MACS OF 2015 Graduates of the Class of 2015 were accepted to the following universities and colleges: Auburn University
Nicholls State University
The University of the Arts
Baylor University
Our Lady of Holy Cross College
The University of Southern Mississippi
Belmont University
Point Loma Nazarene University
Tulane University
Case Western Reserve University
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
University of California, San Diego
Centenary College
Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
University of California, Irvine
Columbia College Chicago
Saint Edward’s University
University of Dallas
Fordham University
Saint Louis University
University of Louisiana at Lafayette
Hampton University
San Diego State University
University of Louisiana at Monroe
Hobart and William Smith Colleges
San Francisco Conservatory of Music
University of Miami
Hollins University
Santa Fe University of Art and Design
University of New Orleans
Howard University
School of the Art Institute of Chicago
University of Rochester
Ithaca College
Sewanee The University of the South
University of San Diego
Jacksonville State University
Southeastern Louisiana University
University of San Francisco
Johns Hopkins University
Southern Methodist University
University of South Alabama
Louisiana State University
Southwestern University
Vanguard College of Cosmetology
Louisiana Tech University
Spring Hill College
Washington University in St. Louis
Loyola University New Orleans
Stetson University
Webster University
Manhattan School of Music
Texas A & M University
West Chester University of Pennsylvania
Millsaps College
The Boston Conservatory
Westminster College
Mississippi State University
The University of Alabama
Xavier University of Louisiana
New England Conservatory of Music
The University of Alabama at Birmingham
The 80 seniors in the Mac Class of 2015 earned a total of $5,613,086 in scholarships.
Pictured, from left: Valedictorians Christiane Petitbon and Tiffany Yochum, Salutatorian Katherine Jones 51
Cor Unum
AWARD 2015 an e P i t s i r h C
etitbon
In what ways do you feel your Ursuline education has prepared you for the world in which we live? My Ursuline education has taught me that with dedication, anything is possible. It has given me the background knowledge that is essential to do well in college and secure a good job. It has given me challenges but also made it known that I did not have to accept them; this was up to my own volition. Life presents many challenges, and we must decide whether we want to face them or find an easier path. As English teacher Joel Causey told my English I Honors class, “Take agency over your education.” It is up to people to remain focused and dedicated to the goals they have set for themselves. If one stays focused on her task at hand, she will succeed. At Ursuline, I have learned that there is no challenge too great. The Ursuline Sisters who came from France to New Orleans to start what has now become Ursuline Academy 52
Christiane Petitbon '15 was selected as the 2015 Cor Unum Award Recipient by the Ursuline Alumnae Association. 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. Members of the Ursuline Alumnae Association Board (pictured below) presented Christiane with the award at the Alumnae Induction Ceremony following Baccalaureate Mass.
greatly exhibited this. Entering high school, I never would have imagined that I would be elected and hold the title of Mu Alpha Theta President. I not only became leader of the National Mathematics Honor Society; I became it as a junior. As president, many doors have opened to me. I have given induction speeches, become a member of Student Council, improved Ursuline’s chapter of Mu Alpha Theta, placed at tournaments, planned meetings and organized various activities. Without the courage I fostered at Ursuline, I would not have risen to this position, which had not been held by a junior in prior years. The world we live in is filled with opportunities. We have to be brave enough to depart from our comfort zones and seize them. Courtesy, loyalty, and courage are essential in life. People must be respectful of one another, treat all with dignity, and be mindful of their own actions. They must also stand firm in their beliefs and not be afraid to express them. Ursuline has taught me the importance of getting involved.
Throughout my education experience at Ursuline, I have been encouraged to act both within the Academy and in the community. Within the high school, I have been a part of numerous organizations, including Mu Alpha Theta, National Honor Society, National Art Honor Society, Save NOLA Strays, Varsity Swim Team, Student Ambassadors, Student Council, Recycling Club/Students For a Better Ursuline, Project Africa, Sailing Club, UA Fit, and Key Club. These serve as outlets to express my love for Ursuline and share the joy my time at Ursuline has brought me. Extracurricular activities bring about a chance to network with individuals and develop relationships with them. This is a great skill to have in today’s world. It can connect you to job opportunities and internships or build longlasting friendships. Additionally, Ursuline, through its motto Serviam, has motivated me to be involved in my community and aid others. I have volunteered at numerous places in a variety of fields during my years at Ursuline. This is important for the world in which we live because life is not solely about the betterment of ourselves. It is what we do for others that truly makes the difference in the world. I plan to study engineering in college. I will use this mindset to inspire me to continue working to my full potential because my efforts will benefit many in the long term. Life is full of variety. Acting in many different areas of service has illustrated to me that there are many ways to achieve the same task. In today’s world, people need to know that there are many ways to reach a conclusion and that all are equally as powerful as one another. We do not have to act like everyone else, for the world has endless offerings. What one word describes Ursuline and why? Inspiration. Whether it be encouraging advice from teachers, support from classmates, or new concepts learned during the school year, Ursuline is filled with inspiration. I look to both the successful young women I have seen develop and achieve so many things while a student and the alumnae in my family and their great progress for inspiration. Ursuline is not only a place where ideas are formed, it helps breathe life into ambitions and open doors of possibilities that one may not have known existed. In addition to motivating me to make the most of my educational experience, Ursuline has also inspired me to grow deeper in my faith and serve others through administering the sacrament of Holy Communion, being a retreat leader, and performing numerous acts of community service. My time at Ursuline has filled me with the confidence to take part in experiences I may not have done before, such as becoming Mu Alpha Theta president or modeling in a fashion show at Mother Daughter
Luncheon for all high school students and their mothers. Inspiration can be found in the classroom setting. Lessons about female mathematicians who knew seven languages by age eleven, studied under alias, or helped innovate the first computer, encourage me to make my mark on the world and explore new fields of study. When I need a new idea for a project or want to be further challenged, teachers are the source of inspiration. One can ask them how to improve her performance in class as well as for guidance about situations in life. Members of the faculty
"At Ursuline, I have learned that there is no challenge too great." at Ursuline are welcoming and ready to help the students any time. They develop relationships with students and care about their well-being, desiring to witness them achieve as much as possible. Inspiration in the classroom exists within one’s peers too. Fellow students are meant to strengthen each other’s confidence and challenge one another, making both rise to their full potentials. Classmates can offer new perspectives on situations and deliver insight that can bring others to new conclusions about problems they face. One need not look further than the long hallway of graduation pictures, a representation of all the successful women who shared a similar journey to the current students, to find great inspiration. Students see people in years before them excel and desire to do the same. This inspiration ranges from a student earning Alpha Honor Roll every quarter to a student being a National Merit Finalist to a graduate becoming a published, renowned doctor. The history contained within each class is such an overwhelming amount that it cannot help but inspire all who gaze upon it. These alumnae demonstrate to enrolled students just how foundational and opportunity-filled their Ursuline education is. I confide in alumnae, such as my mom and her classmates who are like family, and regularly ask them for advice. These women, like many alumnae, are role models. When I need an extra push or motivation in life, the alumnae I am connected with are some of the first people I go to. Thus, the driving force behind many things is found in Ursuline. When “life may lead [me] far away,” as the Alma Mater states, I can always look to Ursuline to discover which direction I should travel in next. 53
A R O U N D S TAT E S T R E E T
High school and elementary students united for the Academy's spring musical "Schoolhouse Rock Live! Jr.�
During Welcome Week, new high school students officially became Lions. 54
Ursuline fifth and sixth graders enjoyed learning how to write basic computer programming code.
Spirit Day featured fun and friendly competitions for elementary students.
A R O U N D S TAT E S T R E E T
The UA community showed their support at the annual Pink Volleyball Game. Proceeds from the game were donated to East Jefferson Cancer Care.
Ursuline's sailing team continued to grow and improve in the 2014-15 school year.
Students of all ages volunteered their time at organizations around the city on St. Angela's Feast Day.
High school administrators and faculty members had a blast at Girls Night Out, an event the Academy hosted for 4th-6th grade girls. 55
URSULINE
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2635 State Street · New Orleans, Louisiana 70118 · www.uanola.org · 504.861.9150 56