Veritas Magazine - Spring 2013

The Voice and Vision of St. Agnes Academy since 1906

Spring 2013

in this issue//spring 2013 Features

05 | 06 | 08 | 20 |

Sr. Carol Mayes, O.P. ’56, Prioress Sr. Antoinette (Kitty) Carter, O.P. ’57, Vicaress Sr. Pat Casey, O.P. ’61, Councilor Sr. Julie Marie Greig, O.P., Councilor

St. Agnes Academy 2012 – 2013 Board of Directors

Student Council Shines SAA hosts state convention

Moonlight Swing Dominican Spirit Award honorees

A Secret Well Kept A St. Agnes girl’s winning story

Witnesses to History Alumnae and the new Pope

Departments

10 | 16 | 21 | 22 | 30 |

Dominican Trustees

Academy News Tigers’ Den

Maureen Graf, Chair Paul Antolik Cathy Beathard Bob Bobo, Jr. John Brennan, III Mimi Butler Sr. Pat Casey, O.P. ’61 Dan Castaneda Robert Clay Sr. Adrian Dover, O.P. Chris Fenelon Suzanne Smith Grant ’79 Kelly Hackett ’00 Greg Hardin Mike Heim

Jerry Kimmitt, II Bob Ladd, Sr. Bob McLamb Sr. Jane Meyer, O.P., Ex-officio Jim Murnane Mary Raia ’77 Ed Ramon Kathy Rose Julie Plessala Samson ’80 Greg Schockling Elda Smith Jim Ulm, II Laura Lee Vaio Tom Vaughn

St. Agnes AcAdemy Foundation Trustees Sharon Copper, President Brock Akers Rosalie Montalbano Brandino ’64 José Enriquez Jeannine Flynn Jennifer Granchi Chris Matlock Sr. Carol Mayes. O.P. ’56

Sr. Jane Meyer, O.P., Ex-officio Frank Panebianco Steve Schwarzbach Diane Thornton Shelley Savarino Ulm ’84 Jeff Weiner Ana Maria Gonzalez Wood ’82

St. Agnes Academy EXECUtive Team

From the Archives

Sr. Jane Meyer, O.P. Head of School Deborah Whalen Principal

Alumnae Connections In Memoriam

Bridget Hennessey ’90 Head of Advancement H. Leon Howard Head of Finance and Facilities

Office of Advancement

Stay connected st-agnes.org facebook.com/st-agnes-academy twitter.com/st-agnes-academy

Bridget Hennessey ’90, Head of Advancement 713.219.5481 bridget.hennessey@st-agnes.org Nanette Bledel, Gift Processor 713.219.5420 nanette.bledel@st-agnes.org Barbara Bellomy, Director of Communications 713.219.5404 barbara.bellomy@st.agnes.org Stephanie Crowl, Director of Annual Giving 713.219.5406 stephanie.crowl@st-agnes.org Lori Sebastian Pinter ’88, Director of Alumnae Relations 713.219.5493 lori.pinter@st-agnes.org Linda Rocamontes, Director of Special Events 713.219.5401 linda.rocamontes@st-agnes.org

St. Agnes students from the 1950s

on the cover: Sr. Jane Meyer, O.P. presents the

Dominican Spirit Award to Al and Dona Boudreaux Clay ’61 at the 30th Anniversary Legacy Gala on March 23, 2013.

For change of address or other questions, contact the Office of Communications at 713.219.5404 or news@st-agnes.org.

St. Agnes Academy 9000 Bellaire Blvd, Houston, TX 77036-4683 P: 713.219.5400 | F: 713.219.5499

From the Head of School

Sr. Jane Meyer, O.P. Since St. Agnes Academy began 107 years ago, there have been a number of “drivers” that have changed the focus of education, including the number of women now comprising college enrollment and the professions. The Academy has always been on the cutting edge of education and able to address those changes because of the planning we do. Our strategic plan is a living, breathing document, one that allows us to help create the future rather than stumble into it.

It was our current strategic plan that led us to buy the land that is now our “Field of Dreams.” As a result, we have added eight additional teams and approximately 48% of our students participate in at least one sport.

Our wellness program has expanded, and P.E. credit is available for the popular Rhythm and Motion classes. We will add a yoga class to the curriculum this coming year.

Diversity within our student body and our faculty has been a strategic goal. This current school year opened with the following population: 9% African American, 12% Asian, 20% Hispanic and 59% Anglo.

St. Agnes now more closely reflects the changing face of Houston. We take pride in our religious diversity as well, as we are enriched by many other faiths. We have accomplished an amazing amount in every area of our plan.

We now begin the next phase of our strategic planning process to guide us through 2020. We started in February with “The State of the School” in which more than 200 interested parents and volunteers came together to talk about their own visions for the Academy’s future, core values that will not change, and the challenges and opportunities we are sure to face. And, we came away energized.

We are continuing with focus groups of faculty and staff that are identifying how the current drivers of education – globalization, new technologies, and opportunities for service – must be reflected in all we do. An Emeritus Advisory Council was formed, made up of the wisdom from the past: men and women

who were highly engaged during their daughter’s time at St. Agnes and who bring valuable experience and institutional memory. We continue to survey alumnae, current and past parents to guide us from their perspectives.

It is clear from the information that we have collected so far, we know who we are and what we are about: Dominican values, Catholic identity, academic excellence, service to others, empowering young women, and appreciation of diversity. The approach we take now will reflect those core values and allow us to align our facilities and staffing with our program needs.

We all sit under the shade of a tree that someone else planted. That is one of my favorite expressions and sums up quite nicely our approach as we begin the next phase of our strategic planning process – honoring the past and looking to the future. Out of this strategic planning process we will create our map for the future. We will set priorities for facility expansion and improvements. We will examine enrollment and decide what we need to do to find balance culturally and economically. And, we will, as a community, phase our decisions into manageable stages so we can continue to offer excellence in education.

Come sit in our courtyard under the shade of the live oak trees that the Dominican Sisters planted 50 years ago. Strengthen your ties within the St. Agnes community, and God bless you for being a part of our driving force.

Mission Statement Rooted in the Dominican tradition, St. Agnes Academy provides a Catholic college preparatory education that encourages young women to develop intellectual curiosity, to work for social justice, and to act with integrity and compassion.

From the Principal

Deborah Whalen

St. Agnes Launches Be The Change Summer Program

I am excited to announce the launch of a new summer program for middle school girls to be offered this June on our campus called Be The Change. Our mission is to engage economically disadvantaged middle school girls in a fun summer program dedicated to academic enrichment and character development.

Several of us have worked together this year to develop a curriculum inspired by the article “What if the Secret to Success is Failure?” published in the New York Times in September 2011. The article explores the question of what predicts success – intellect or character. What the experts discovered was that while both are important, it is strong character that best predicts leading a happy, meaningful and productive life. In school, students who learned to fail and then developed the character to pull through the crisis were ultimately more successful in college and beyond. The article presented research that identified 24 character traits – seven that were the best predictors of performance. They are: zest, grit, self-control, social intelligence, gratitude, optimism and curiosity. These character traits are the foundation of our curriculum.

The program is targeted for rising 7th and 8th graders from inner-city Catholic schools, as well as students in our Sharpstown neighborhood.

The program will include a variety of classes, activities and workshops:

daily prayer services testimonials social skills seminar communication exercises robotics forensics CSI unit career information theater arts studio art time & stress management science labs yoga current events physical education creative writing Guidance Counselor Debbie Sieck, will be the program director. She has recruited several current St. Agnes faculty members and administrators to teach and assist with the program. She will also work with 10 St. Agnes students who have chosen the Be The Change program as their senior service project. They will act as group leaders and mentors for the middle school girls. They will be trained prior to the program and will also help with efforts to follow up with the participants during the following school year. It is our belief that we can make a profound difference in the lives of these girls by exposing them to innovative programming and mentoring them at such an important time in their lives.

4

StudentCouncil

Shines

“St. Agnes Academy, the first private school and the first all-girls school to host the Texas Association of Student Councils (TASC) Annual Conference, provided over 4,800 attendees the experience of a lifetime. Best of all, the entire St. Agnes delegation modeled character, leadership, and excellence.”

-Terry Hamm, Director TASC “I believe we were chosen because of Mr. (Tommy) Calais’s reputation within the TASC,” said Student Council Vice-President Charlotte Friend. “As host school we had to submit an application which the state board reviews before selecting the best candidate.”

The Academy was named 2013 host during the sophomore year for President Natalie Diala ’13 and Charlotte Friend ’13. Their work as co-chairs included attending numerous state board meetings and shadowing other conference hosts for an entire year.

“The theme for the 2013 conference - Celebrating Diversity, Uniting in Leadership - was based on two of the best events at St. Agnes: Diversity Week and Celebrate St. Agnes.” said Charlotte. “We wanted to spread our message of tolerance to this huge crowd of student leaders.”

Student councilors had a big job in serving as host. They tracked down performers, identified more than 70 “hip” songs and checked their lyrics for appropriateness, tracked down film clips that

Natalie Diala, President and Charlotte Friend, Vice-President

conveyed a message of “Uniting in Leadership,” organized all of the decorations for the conference, and booked the two main speakers. One of the speakers, Michael Fallon, performed at St. Agnes during Diversity week a few years ago. All in all, it added up to very little sleep the closer they got to the convention.

While it was a student council event, all forces from the St. Agnes Academy community were in on the act. The art department made signs, the maintenance department created bars to display flags, Tiger Girls wowed everyone with spectacular dancing, Performance Workshop entertained with song, and parent volunteers took care of food and hospitality.

In true St. Agnes style, other schools were recruited and added to the mix with Mariachis, dragon dances, Asian and Mexican dances, and Country Western music.

Continued on page 15

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Moonlight Swing The joint was jumpin’. The Dames and Daddys put on their glad rags and rushed right over to the Westin Memorial City for the 30th Anniversary Legacy Gala. A good time was had by all!

My Gala Co-Chair Shelley Ulm and I could not get the smiles off of our faces – it was a sellout crowd!

Everything was in its place, the decorations were up, the tables were set and the candles were lit.

The room was bursting with people, all chatting and ready for a good time. Trade at the auction tables was brisk. All told, the gala raised 30% more than anticipated. It seems everyone was in a celebratory mood. This year’s Dominican Spirit honorees, much loved Al and Dona Boudreaux Clay ’61, brought out the party spirit with a crowdraising cheer.

We’ve got spirit, yes we do….

The Performance Workshop entertained the crowd during the cocktail hour and sang a beautiful rendition of the Dominican Blessing before dinner.

The Remix Dance Team graced the dance floor.

The Student Council worked the auction, raffle and grab bag tables, as well as entertaining us during

6

Gala Co-chairs Holly Brennan and Shelley Savarino Ulm ’84

the live auction. MC, Auctioneer, ABC 13 news anchor, and current parent Tom Koch charmed us, while getting us to reach a little deeper into our pockets. When the live auction was over and we were ready to dance, Sr. Jane sang a rousing version of Boogie Shoes with the band, Password.

We danced until we shut the joint down.

The evening was possible only because of the many hours of work and dedication by the volunteers, parents, staff, faculty, and alumnae. They all joined forces to work on committees, make donations, and hit the pavement asking for silent, live and big board donations. It was a collaborative effort that truly paid off. Moonlight Swing was not only our first sold out gala, but it raised an unprecedented $650,000.

-Holly Brennan 2013 Co-chair Legacy Gala

Clay Family members

D

ominican Spirit Award

This year’s gala honorees, Al and Dona Boudreaux Clay ’61, have known each other since the eighth grade.

These high school sweethearts - Dona at St. Agnes, Al at St. Thomas - were recognized as models of faith, leadership, service and truth. Not only building a successful business and raising three children, they are also deeply rooted in Dominican values, giving countless volunteer hours as scout leader, substitute teacher, and board member. The couple embodies the highest ideals of a St. Agnes Academy education and the true spirit of the Dominican Sisters. Congratulations Al and Dona!

Sr. Jane Meyer; Michele Fraga ’85

John and Betty Norkus; Judy and Dick Agee

Steve and Angela Pizzitola Schwarzbach ’81

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A Secret Well Kept .

The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards are the longest-running, most prestigious recognition program for creative teens in the U.S., and the largest source of scholarships for young artists and writers. For 2012, the Harris County Department of Education announced district winners and among them are nine St. Agnes students. Competitors were judged on originality, technical skill, and the emergence of personal voice or vision.

In the past five years, submissions have topped 700,000 works, and students have been eligible for more than $25 million in awards and scholarships. Winners are recognized with Gold Key, Silver Key, and Honorable Mention awards. Gold Key winners go on to compete at the national level where more than 1,500 students receive awards each year. Past winners include Andy Warhol, Sylvia Plath, Truman Capote, Richard Avedon, Robert Redford, and Joyce Carol Oates.

And what about our Academy women? Isabel Sutter ’14 was a Gold Key winner for her personal essay “A Secret Well Kept” featured here. Silver Key winners included Chantelle Bacigalupo ’13– Personal Essay, Katie Butler ’13– Poetry, Kat McCollum ’16 – Short Story, and Rachel Lanier ’13– Flash Fiction. Honorable Mentions went to Amaryllis Fernandes ’16, Esther Huang ’13, Rachel Lanier, and Kat McCollum.

Isabel Sutter

“Since 1923, the Awards have recognized the exceptional vision of our nation’s youth, and we provide a singular opportunity for students to be noticed for their creative talents.” From The Alliance for Young Artists & Writers

1

“I’m going for a bike ride, Mom. Can I leave the garage open?” I ask as I begin walking towards the door.

“Sure.” Mom answers, cautiously. “Be sweet, Iz.” “Mom, my bike and I have a very healthy relationship.

We’re always sweet to each other.”

She tilts her head and looks at me again, but I don’t wait for her next comment. I’m on my bike and out the garage door before I can even think about it. I wonder what she imagines I do every day. I wonder why she thinks I have suddenly taken up riding my bike twice a day. I wonder if she and her little mom-cronies sit about gossiping, wondering just as much as I do. I suppose they must do something to keep themselves busy—I’m a pretty dull daughter to have around (no boyfriends, tattooed or otherwise, no really bad grades, not even a detention).

It’s funny to hear Mom and her friends talk about my older sister and her best friend, proclaiming who is most definitely not right for whom. If they knew, the boys’ skin would crawl from the number of times their names are brought up.

By now, I’m rolling down our street pretty quickly and my helmet is rocking forward on my head. It does that on windy days. Annoyed, I unbuckle it and throw it in my brown wicker basket without stopping. Throwing my hair over my shoulders, I feel it fly out behind me. I watch my shadow on the concrete—the rectangular glasses, the flying long, loose hair, the pointy nose, and the bike tires 12circling endlessly. I turn right onto the sidewalk and zoom down Heatherton Road. In a quiet tinged with unsatisfied aspiration, I remember bike rides through the summer when I’d ride to escape my home. In Houston you can feel the heat in summer. No, you don’t feel it. You breathe it.

It beats down on you and forces you to double-over, as hunchbacked as Philip Wakem. I would ride then to feel released, to not have to think about what was happening in my home. It was so much easier to feel something I could account for. I’d make up stories then. The boy dressed all in black who planted the flower garden in the yard at the end of the street—he was my tall, dark stranger. I imagined myself falling off my bike in front of that house and him dashing gallantly to my aid. And suddenly, it’d all fit together like the end of a Jane Austen novel. I giggled

at my own daydreams of his calloused, sweaty hands lifting me. I pushed my tank top strap higher onto my shoulder.

Now it was December and the same wind that whipped my hair chilled me. My green, corduroy jacket was getting too small for me and it was thinner than I’d remembered it to be. Up ahead, the sidewalk was ending and there was the park in front of me. A small black dog with ringlets of fur sat in the yard of a house I passed. Stopping, I helloed to it in a tone unnaturally perky. I pondered whether or not those words had just exited my mouth—when had I ordered them to leave, when had I given them permission?

They didn’t fit into my head – I’d said “hello” in a tone that oozed smiles. When had I ever “oozed” anything?

I watched the little dog with her curly fur smile back at me. Because I heard a woman beckon the dog, I hurriedly began pedaling again. Like a spooked deer, I headed for the park. Why did I hurry away? Why did I dread turning about to see her face?

I didn’t quite feel myself.

I was across the street and at the entrance when I turned aside. All the people milling about the park—kids playing on the playground with perspiration and sincerity dripping from their faces, couples laying in the grass with an air of contented laziness, the 15 Hispanic guys caked in dirt playing soccer, kicking that ball with more honest passion than I had ever felt. I didn’t want to be near so many people. So I turned and sped away, sniffing the wind and the wishes and the dirt from the soccer players. I wove in and out of each street, listening to men talking fast Spanish I’d never understand and loving a toddler who pointed at me and shouted out “Bike!” in an elated voice. His mother smiled; so did I. After about 30 minutes I was reentering my street and I didn’t want to go home. I’d face my mother’s speculative gaze and hidden questions. She would look at me, her eyes boring into me in search of a secret. But the real secret is this: there is none. I ride because I am lonely or hopeless or even just because I wish I was skinnier. But there is no secret as my mother imagines. And that’s something I’ll keep forever. Because, no matter how much I complain about her wondering, I like to see her puzzled face. It makes me feel as if I am somehow exciting in my person and in my mystery. All of this for the reason that I have a secret.

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Movin’ On U St. Agnes Academy Honors Physics team placed fifth at the National Rube Goldberg Competition in March in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The 2013 project theme was "Hammer a Nail,” which they built in four weeks.

“Although many teams we competed against had much more complicated and elaborate projects, ours always worked without any voids or assistance from our team. This is why we placed," said Sarah Seger.

In addition to their fifth place overall award, the St. Agnes team was the only all-female team to make it to the semi-finalist round.

Team members L-R: Laura Mason ’13, Sarah Seger ’13, Sarah Linesch ’13, Alex Palmer ’13, and Alice Linesch ’14

Advancing to State Erica Hoffman ’13, Mariana Leon ’13, Inaas Shirazi ’14, and Mai Tran ’14 ( shown left) will advance to state in the Visual Arts Scholastic Event hosted by the Texas Art Education Association. Sponsored since 1994, it is the only art event of its kind in the nation. Students must attend one of 20 Regional Events in the state and are interviewed with their artwork by a juror to determine the degree each artwork demonstrates originality of concept, technical expertise, and the interpretation of the student’s stated intent.

At the 2013 FIRST Robotics Competition

Lone Star Regional in Houston, Spectrum 3847 engineering team, made up of Academy and Strake Jesuit students, partnered with Lamar High School and Booker T. Washington High School to come home regional finalists. This win pushed them on to finals in New Orleans where the team made us proud, Seeded #4 at the end of qualifying, they lost in the semi-finals to the #1 Alliance.

It is important to note that Spectrum, led by Allen Gregory, was also given the Entrepreneurship Award sponsored by Kleiner Perkins Caufield and Byers at both competitions. The honor is given to a team that is unique, enthusiastic and well organized, and whose well-honed business skills and comprehensive business plan will keep them operating successfully for years to come.

Judges were quoted as saying, “The team developed and executed a spectacular business plan that prepared the team for the financial and organizational challenges of FIRST competitions, ensuring their long term viability. In identifying risks and developing contingency plans, this team truly covered the entire “Spectrum!”

10 | Academy NEWs

Up

Classnotes Meritorious All four National Merit semi-finalists and the National Achievement semifinalist at St. Agnes Academy have been named finalists by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, representing the top-performing one percent of all high school seniors.

Students had to demonstrate an outstanding academic record, participation in community activities, and leadership abilities, be endorsed by a high school official, write an essay, and earn superior SAT scores.

Top row: Claire Lafferty, Briana Acosta Front row: Mireille Hammock, Ruth Bagley, and Micaela Williams

And, Maybe a Future in Politics Each year, students from St. Agnes attend Harvard Model Congress in Boston, a studentrun organization that permits high school students to engage in the American government process through role-play and simulation in order to develop a better understanding of civic involvement and government function.

Harvard Model Congress began operating in 1986 and today approximately 1,600 students from across the United States and other countries participate. St. Agnes first participated in 1993 with 16 students comprising the delegation. The delegation has now increased to include between 30 and 40 students.

The photo shows Kathryn Pielech ’14 (in glasses) presenting a bill before her committee in the Senate. It proposed to lower energy subsidies on natural gas while allocating a small amount of money towards research on nuclear energy and creating stricter safety regulations on oil rigs to prevent future disasters. That’s an Academy woman demonstrating her interconnectedness with the Earth!

Academy NEWs

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1

Arts Alive!

2

3

Maggie McMeans ’13 as “Elle Woods”

12 12 | Academy NEWs

4

Classnotes

The vibrant arts program

at St. Agnes revealed its full flower in the production of “Legally Blonde: The Musical.”

The cast began jump-roping, rehearsing and learning choreography in June 2012, a full eight months prior to opening night. A lifesized cardboard cut-out of “Elle Woods” greeted students on the first day of classes and displays of pink graced the library.

St.Agnes had “gone blonde.”

By January, rehearsals were in full swing while the cast and crew of 56 students, five directors, and many parent volunteers worked tirelessly on costumes, quick changes, challenging set configurations, music, choreography, and lighting. They even constructed a two-story Delta Nu sorority house set! The choir room was transformed into a “pink cafe” for the week prior to opening night where cast and crew dined and were able to take a quick respite between scenes.

Legally Blonde opened with a dress rehearsal for more than 465 middle school students from across the Houston area. Each student was treated to refreshments at intermission and a Q&A

Madeline Garvis ‘14 won a Tommy Tune Award as 2013 Best Supporting Actress for her role as “Paulette.” This was her second nomination! Katherine Pepin ’13 won a Tommy Tune scholarship.

at the end of the show with the cast, crew and directors.

This joint presentation with Strake Jesuit saw record audiences, entertaining more than 2,500 people for its five performances, even hosting a special night for alumnae. Now, the challenge continues to be how to accommodate an expanding performing arts program with our current facilities.

-Ruey Farley Garvis ’87, Chair, Spring Musical

1 - Stage Manager Chloe Walker ’13 was “Bruiser’s” handler.

2 - Mary Baronitis ’13 was an attentive Wardrobe Mistress.

3 - “Elle’s” friends offer encouragement L-R: Laura Stubbs ’13, Lauren Holladay ’14, Maddie McAllister ’15, Katie Butler ’13, Kyla Sloan ’13, Peyton Manning ’15, Ellie Roppolo ’16, and Leigh Frederickson ’15, 4 - Greeters and intermission hostesses welcomed the crowds and demonstrate that not all the action is on stage!

Academy NEWs

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All-State Choir members, Front Row: Anna Lee Carothers ’15, Katie Butler ’13 (first chair), Madeline Garvis ’14, Maddie McAllister ’15; Second Row: Maddy Delgado ’16; Erin Miller ’14, Denise Wong ’13, Kelsey Williams ’13, and Hannah Descartin ’13

SAA All-State Orchestra members performing at the Senior Style Show: Agnes Budhijanto ’16 and Amarillys Fernandes ’16

Music and Dance Tiger Girls Strike Gold

pope francis Pope Francis Front row: Regina Ochoa Reyes ’14, Emily Koch ’13, Emma Carlson ’14, Danielle Fortune ’14. Back row: Tiffany Ma ’13, Kelly May ’13, Isabel Hernandez ’13, Colonel Megan Jamieson ’13, Jaelin Cola ’13, and Kaitlin Karcher ’14.

A patriotic “Proud to be an American” team pom routine by the 41-member St. Agnes Academy Tiger Girls Dance Team brought home a special honor - the Crowd Pleasers Award, from the Crowd Pleasers Senior Texas Showcase of Champions 2013. The state competition was held in March at Cy-Falls High School. The Tiger Girls, led by Coach Julie Chilton, also won first place in large school team military and all eight soloists placed Division I. The ten-member elite dance team Remix (shown left), garnered two first place trophies for a jazz dance and a pom routine and a Super Sweepstakes Award.

There are various opportunties for families to travel and learn together. Spanish teacher Marie Moore led a group to Machu Picchu over spring break and they returned with wonderful stories, some they are even willing to share! The excerpt below is just a taste of a longer tale that you can read on the website at stagnes.org.

The mosquito canopy nets over the beds kept insects at bay but otherwise the incredibly unique experience brought new meaning to the phrase "close to nature."

Robin Burks, Ph.D. Parent of Jessie Ames ’15

14 | Academy NEWs

At the base of a 400-year-old giant ceiba tree in the Peruvian Amazon: Rose Montonchaikul ’13, Sara Bobb ’16 , Lisa Morrow ’15, Kelsey Siegler ’14 and Shannon Lewis ’16

Classnotes

Student Council Shines continued from page 5...

“As I looked at the 5,000 student leaders clapping, singing, having fun, embracing diversity and celebrating all that it stands for, I thought, I am not worried about the future, it is in good hands,” said Sr. Jane.

Others had glowing things to say about the work of Academy women at the convention, too. “The 2013 TASC Annual Conference was definitely one of the best conferences my students and I have attended,” said Katie Keyes, Advisor for Keller High School. “As the 2015 host school, we have huge shoes to fill. It will be hard to match up to the job that St. Agnes did.”

After all the student councilors had returned to school the Tuesday after that first April weekend in Arlington, the hallways were a little quieter than usual, the pace just a touch slower, but faces were beaming none the less.

“Hosting State was like tying a bright shiny ribbon on my four years in Student Council,” said Natalie Diala. “All the time, all the work, everything came together.”

Academy NEWs

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Junior Claire Puccini is this year’s captain and is a leader in and out of the pool.

Water Sports from Coach Kaitlin Kelley...

Water Polo

Swimming/Diving

We are constantly working to build the program and create more exposure for our sport. Our goal is to be in the top four so that we can continue our journey to State. We’ve worked incredibly hard this year, and our girls are a team in every sense of the word. They play well together in and out of the pool, and I have never been more proud of a team I’ve coached!

Standout tigers Alex Allen ’15, Emily Alff ’14, Ashley Mercadel ’15, and Angel Hoang ’14 won the 200 freestyle relay. In addition to incredible relay swims, sophomore Allen placed second and third in both of her individual events. Junior Hoang, took third and broke her own school record in the 100 butterfly.

Senior captain Lauren Shelton ’13 ended her St. Agnes swimming career with a bronze in the 400 freestyle relay with her teammates Allen, Hoang, and Mercadel.

St. Agnes has had a water polo team since 1992. With no pool of our own, we walk across the parking lot and play in Strake Jesuit’s outdoor pool. This year, we have 36 athletes on JV and varsity. These committed girls practice every day from 5-7 p.m., in addition to competing in tournaments every weekend.

16 | Academy NEWs

The Tigers wrapped up an amazing season with a second place finish at State. Moving up a spot from a third place finish last year, the tigers prove that they are a force to be reckoned with, and it is suspected they will continue to work until they get the gold!

tigers’den

“Stately” Champions All What a year for St. Agnes athletes! The Cross Country team started the school year with a fourth place finish in State. This was followed by second place team finishes in State for Swimming & Diving, Volleyball, and Soccer, and individual divers Kimmie George and Megan Eschenfelder placing fourth and sixth respectively at State. Oh yeah, add to that, a third place in State for Basketball.

These “stately” Academy athletes all seem to have the hearts of champions.

Soccer

Our steadfast will to win and strong senior leadership led us to the state championship game for the second year in a row during our perfect district and 21-4-5 overall record season. After graduating nine seniors from last year’s squad, we needed our younger players to make an immediate impact, and they delivered. We had five ninth graders in our starting lineup who tenaciously fought to win against some tough competition.

The playoff series was remarkable, scoring late in a 1-0 victory in our regional game versus Fort Worth Nolan, and beating Bishop Lynch in penalty kicks in the semifinal game. Ending up as #2 in State, we continue to challenge ourselves in non-district play to prepare for next year’s playoffs. How sweet it would be to have

another chance to unseat Ursuline, now the running state champion for 23 years.

The soccer program is growing; we fielded three teams for the first time this year, playing on our beautiful new fields. Our summer camp, planned for June 10–14 at the East Campus will give us the space and opportunity to further develop our talent during the season. We had great interest and support from the St. Agnes community this year, which keeps us motivated to be successful.

An extra shout-out goes to the Academy’s All State Tournament team members: Claire Lafferty ’13, Aimee Parker ’16, Tori Hollamon ’16, and Annie Sohmer ’13.

-Coach Rebecca Brady ’00 Academy NEWs

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Change

Based upon player exit meetings from the previous season, the coaching staff decided to make a change.

Communication came in the form of weekly “Bleacher Talks” during practice, as well as pregame, half-time and post-game “player only” conversations.

The coaches said very little. This created player-accountability that each athlete held sacred.

Finding moments of passion during a game was essential.

The result was a 31 – 9 overall record, a #3 state ranking, champions of two tournaments, sharing a district championship with the #5 team in the state, and getting to the Final Four once again with a team that had more losses than wins just a year ago. Congratulations to the players!

-Coach Jeff Hollinger

18 | Academy NEWs

Standing L-R: Marissa English ’14, Nicole Carrabba ’13, Lexi Onigbanjo ’14, Shea Silvernail ’13, Michelle Nwokedi ’14, Casey Craft ’15, Leila Tanios ’13, Gaby Perez ’14, Crystal Ike ’13; Seated L-R: Taylor Ryan ’13, Danielle Wilson ’13, Corinne Kelly ’14, Ava Ring ’14, Jackie Carrabba ’13, Erika Browne ’13

Teambuilding

by the water,

and in the on the ice,

During my first four years at St. Agnes, getting to State was commonplace; three of those years saw state championship games.

Then, something happened. For two years the program struggled. The fifth year was a 19–18 record and the next was an 18–19 record; no district title and no top 25 state ranking. But, something changed this year. Having graduated only two players from last year’s team, this year’s team decided enough was enough. The girls began working out together in June attending a weekly league, a team camp, and workouts throughout the summer.

They ALL played together in a September league and attended every single preseason workout four days a week for eight weeks until the season began.

air!

tigers’den

1

The Faces of Sport You have to believe in yourself when no one else does – that makes you a winner right there.

-Venus Williams

2

7

They show happiness, determination, focus, uncertainty, strength, calm, wonder, relief and grit. They are the faces of Academy women before, during, and after athletic competition. They are also the faces of champions: District champions in tennis and golf, with golf and tennis heading to TAPPS State playoffs at press time.

Look for the fall 2013 edition of Veritas for a complete wrap-up of all 2012-2013 team sports.

3

6

Go Tigers!

1 - Francesca Bosco ’13, varsity golf 2 - Racquel Lyn ’16, tennis 3 - Mia Davis ’15, varsity lacrosse 4 - Shannon Storey ’14, Casey Carpenter ’14, juniors at the annual powder puff football game 5 - Alex Palmer ’13, senior at the annual powder puff football game

4

5

6 - Abby Varona ’15, track & field 7 - Gabrielle McBee ’13, varsity softball Academy NEWs

| 19

Witnesses to History

Pope francis Three St. Agnes alumnae from the Class of 2011 Elizabeth Lucas, Emma Thompson and Andie Price - were in Rome over Spring Break at the time of the conclave. These friends soon reconnected with the real roots of their faith. Arriving at the Vatican when the Cardinals were moving from the Pauline to the Sistine Chapel, they were taking pictures and preparing to watch the live feed outside in St. Peter’s Square and listen to the chants.

Elizabeth, Emma, and Andie were then approached by CNN Reporter Miguel Marquez who asked if they were American, and Catholic and willing to be interviewed on camera. With barely enough time to text their families that they were about to go live on the air, they were wisked into the CNN tent.

“What is it like to be Catholic in Rome during the conclave,” Marquez asked the Academy women.

20

“As Catholic girls, this is such an amazing opportunity for us,” answered Lucas. “Being in St. Peter’s is the most wonderful and astounding experience of my life and to share that experience with my two best friends who I have gone to Catholic school with made it even more special!”

“Often times, we allow ourselves to just go through the motions in our faith, saying our prayers, going to church and we forget the real roots of our faith,” Lucas added. “Being in the heart of the church was such a refreshing experience for all three of us!”

The alumnae had to leave Rome and go back to Bologna, and one day later, a pope was chosen - less than 24 hours after the Academy women were in St. Peter’s. Life-changing, we would imagine.

Photo L-R: Emma Thompson, Elizabeth Lucas, Andie Price

SAA By the Numbers

From the

Archives

18 Number of principals who have led the Academy

28 Years of service by the Dads’ Club

60

Dominican Sisters in 1915

Years of service by the Mothers’ Club

1983 First year Triple Trio performed at the Texas Renaissance Festival

“St. Agnes”

By Massimo Stanzione, Italian Baroque painter, 16-17th century Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya

| 21

AlumnaeConnections C l aAsl su mA ng aeen tS se r v i c e DAal yu m n a e S e rCva irceee rD aD ya y

C a r Se Ae Yr P DO a y

Helping Hands In every classroom and office at St. Agnes there is a framed plaque that begins “A St. Agnes Graduate...” and is followed by a list of eight characteristics that Academy women are expected to aspire to. Lending a helping hand is inherent in much of what you read there. Alumnae Service Day is one opportunity among many to lend that helping hand and to make a difference. This year, almost 100 alumnae and guests convened in the SAA Cafeteria to help create teaching materials for autistic children in the ABA Skills Intervention Program managed by Mental Health Mental Retardation Association of Harris County. It was organized by Amanda Sitomer ’03, program manager of ABA-SkIP. Alumnae also provide helping hands by volunteering at the career day programs, confidently assuming personal leadership.

This year’s panel on health, science, and technology was moderated by C.J. Walthall Kanelakos ’02, mechanical design engineer for Robonaut2 at NASA’s Johnson Space Center. She literally proffered a helping hand, as you can see in the robotic hand she designed and built. Other panelists that day included Lauren Parish Foresman ’01, a physicians assistant at Children’s Cancer Hospital, MD Anderson Cancer Center; Julia Conlon M.D. FAAP ’98, a pediatrician at Fannin Pediatrics; Julianne Piazza D.C. ’04, chiropractor with New Life Wellness Center; and parent of alumna Lisa Beaudry Waters, project manager for ExxonMobil.

A panel on careers in education featured Amanda Sitomer ’03; Nicole Smith Roberts ’94, Special Education Coordinator, Fort Bend ISD; Eleanor Todd ’07, theology teacher at St. Agnes; and Bridget Hennessey ’90, Head of Advancement, St. Agnes.

Academy women also celebrate life in a joyful manner as evidenced during Alumnae Night at Legally Blonde: The Musical where they enjoyed a quick sip of wine during intermission. More than 70 alumnae were recognized by Musical Director Art Buckley at the beginning of the show.

They got to socialize and reconnect, and were even treated to a visit by some of the cast!

Left: Alumnae board members Le’Ann McMurrey Whitely ’99 and Lauri Schneidau Ruiz ’77 with helping hands

22 | Alumnae Connections

COl ua ts s t Ca hnadl il ne gn g Ae l u m n a

alumnae service

1

Y e a r bS oA oY kP OS i g n i n g

Updates

2

day 4 3

1 - Catherine English Theriot ’94 and daughter 2 - Carolyn Carbajal McCairns ’57 3 - Doris Oaks, Patricia Oaks ’93, Stephanie Oaks ’02, and Michael Oaks 4 - Margo Childs, Asst. Dep. Director of ABA-SkIP; Amanda Sitomer ’03, alumna and Program Manager of ABA-SkIP; Dr. Maria Quintero, Director of ABA-SkIP

Annual SAYPO Happy Hour at Blanco’s L - R: Melinda Montalbano ’05, Jessica Sanders ’05, Brittany Taggart ’05

Submit news to alumnae@st-agnes.org

by August 12, 2013, for the fall edition.

classagentlist 1952

Frankie Casey Schiel

1976

irishyakyak@sbcglobal.net

Elizabeth Fusilier Hynes

Christina Luna Finley Cfinley33@sbcglobal.net Carol

2000

Barbara Heiser Alban

1964

elizabeth.a.hynes@irs.gov

Prokop Poston

laurahamlin@hotmail.com

1953

Theresa Pizzitola

1977

daposton@gmail.com

Peggy Wilkening Walker

pizzi.theresa@gmail.com

1990

Margeaux LaFleur Gorman

pegw728@gmail.com

1965

Mary Raia mary.raia@att.net

Susan Chipperfield Giddens

margeauxgorman@gmail.com

susan.giddens@gmail.com

Emily Picheloup

Shannon Beirne Wisedeppe

epichelo@wm.com

johnnyalban@sbcglobal.net

1954

Julie Linehan

1979

Agnes Bobbit Sullivan

linehanlaw@mac.com

ASullivanHouston@aol.com

1966

Suzanne Smith Grant sgrant@hdgrant.com

1956

Carol Laflin Ahles

1982

Carolyn Fitzgerald Matlock

carolahles@sbcglobal.net

cmat@family.net

Sherry Butschek Cornwell

Ana Maria Gonzalez Wood anamariawood@me.com

Mary Leona Miles Williams

sherrycornwell@austin.rr.com

mary-leona@att.net

Ann Dulin Little annd144@hotmail.com

thewiesedeppes@att.net

Laura Hamlin Oates

2001

2002

1991

Erica Sedeno

Lisa Staben Burnside

els2@rice.edu

lburnside25@yahoo.com

2003

1992

1984

Becky Barbour

Julie Sacco

rbarbour07@aol.com

Lannie Earthman Bluethmann lanniebluethmann@msn.com

julie.sacco@shell.com

Amanda Sitomer

Marion Bormans McCann

amanda.sitomer@gmail.com

judy.trabulsi@gsdm.com

1985

mmccann@pas.com

1969

1993

Mackenzie Burns

Mary BoudreauxGraham

Mary-Clare Mertes Day mary-clare.day@uth.tmc.edu

Emily Aguilar Capps

burnsma1@gmail.com

ggraham8@comcast.net

1987

aguilar.emily@yahoo.com

Melinda Montalbano

casathome@gmail.com

1970

1994

melindamontalbano@gmail.com

Kay Stindt Kelly

Carol Caspersen Moffett

kkelly011@comcast.net

cmoffett@kipphouston.org

1959

1972

Helen Grillis Grace

Diane Knebel Watler

Diane Driscoll dianemdriscoll@gmail.com Kristin Kautz kkautztexas@gmail.com Eve Earthman Reed eve.e.reed@gmail.com

1957 Carolyn Carbajal McCairns mccairns@aol.com Mary Ann Chambers

1958 Carol Celman Schottie

Judy Trabulsi

helengrace5549@sbcglobal.net dkwatler@sbcglobal.net Charlene Tirreta Jameson cjameson07@att.net

1975 Ardis Bartle

1960

ardisbartle@apexmeasurement.com

Minnette Passante Carrabba

Sydney Free

MCarrabba2@comcast.net

sydfree1@aol.com

1962 Sue Ann Baranski

1988 Stephanie Lee Grover grovergrrl@earthlink.net Lori Sebastian Pinter lori.pinter@st-agnes.org

Cindy Stowell

1989

cstowell@aggienetwork.com

Adela Garcia Armendariz adelaa1126@yahoo.com

Allenb.p.allen@att.net

Andrea Montgomery Stewart andrea@andreamontgomery.com

1995 Susan Ryder suzryden@aol.com

1996 Suzanne Conwell Pickett spickett@noblecorp.com

1999 Heather Ives Hernandez

2005

Brittany Taggart brittany.taggart@urbanleasing.com

2006 Amanda Adam aadam@marthaturner.com Isabel Longoria Isabel.M.Longoria@gmail.com

2007 Lynn Fahey lynnfahey@gmail.com

heather.ives.hernandez@gmail.com

If your class is not listed, then we need YOU to be the alumnae contact for your class! Please contact Lori Sebastian Pinter ’88, director of alumnae relations at lori.pinter@st-agnes.org or 713.219.5493 to learn more.

24 | Alumnae Connections

outstandingAlumna Performing Arts teacher Jeremy Wood talks...

Arreanna Rostosky ’06 was truly one of the

finest musicians to come through our department. Her love of music just flowed from her. Though a little reserved by nature, she used music as her speaking voice—and it spoke volumes! I had a long conversation with her recently and learned that she was recovering from a serious accident and was slowly getting back full use of her body. Before the accident, she had a goal to run a marathon next January, and since, that goal has not only remained, but has taken on an all new significance. I was really impacted, though not surprised, by her positivity and determination. It was just how I’d remembered her from her days here.

JW: What shows/activities were you in while you were at St. Agnes?

AR: I was in SAA/SJ Mixed Choir, Triple Trio, and Texas Private School Music Educators Association. I worked on sound and lighting for Into the Woods and Godspell and in the chorus for City of Angels. I got to play the part of Mabel in The Pirates of Penzance.

JW: What are some of your favorite memories?

AR: It would have to be re-enacting the entire first act of Into the Woods before a dress rehearsal with Ana T. Black ’04 and Jenny Durham ’05, the co-stage managers. Singing at Disneyland while on choir tour to Los Angeles in 2004 was great. I guess it was meant to be that I eventually ended up in LA for school! And, of course, making flower crowns at the Renaissance Festival each morning Trio was there, sitting in a circle on the ground, singing. It was beautifully peaceful.

JW: Where did you go to college and what was your major?

2013-2014 Calendar of Events Jun. 7

Class Challenge ends

Jun. 8

All-Class Reunion

Veritas Award

Jul. 18

Young Alum Co-ed Happy Hour

Sep. 13

Gifts of Learning Breakfast

Nov. 1

All Saints’ Mass

Nov. 8

Fannin Street Luncheon

Mar. 3

Career Day

Mar. 29 31st Annual Legacy Gala

AR: I was undergraduate at Vanderbilt University from 2006-2010. I earned a bachelor’s in musical arts with a concentration in voice, with a mathematics minor and a concentration in music history, with highest honors. For graduate school, I went to University of California, Los Angeles, getting a master of arts in musicology. I’m still there pursuing a doctorate in musicology.

JW: What are you doing with yourself these days?

AR: Still in Los Angeles, finishing my Ph.D. coursework and working on my dissertation topic. My research has taken me to conferences across the U.S. and abroad and exposed me to a variety of scholarship on the topic of Broadway - my area of concentration. When I'm not busy working or teaching, I like to visit Disneyland or Universal Studios to relax a bit. Oh, and I check out as many Broadway shows that come to town as possible...after the occasional visit to NYC, of course.

JW: Anything else you'd like to share? Words of wisdom for current choir members?

AR: Find your passion and follow it. And, don't be afraid to follow an unconventional path to realize that passion, whether it's music or something else. Also, Mr. Buckley's rule about "no touching your face or head" during Messiah and other choir concerts is golden. It will definitely serve you well and will set you apart should you sing in choirs in college and beyond!

Alumnae Connections

| 25

alumnaeupdates

Katherine Jane Kling ’09,

1960s

sister of Krissy Marie Kling ’16, spent five weeks conducting research on Verreaux’s sifaka in the wilds of Madagascar.

She and her University of Texas anthropology professor were based in a small camp and slept in one-woman tents without benefit of running water or other facilities.

Katherine assisted in observing and darting lemurs and collecting data to further a 15-year research project at her field site on the western side of the island. She presented some of the

Brenda Beust Smith ’61’s husband Bill, was selected by the Meineke Texas Bowl as a 2012 Football Legend.

Bill was honored at the Texas TechMinnesota bowl game in Reliant Stadium along with (the late) Darrell Royal, Hayden Fry, Ty Detmer and Thurman Thomas. Brenda said she had never seen so many Super Bowl rings in her life!

Dr. Ernie and Candy Kane Cronin ’64 were honored at a luncheon for their work in Honduras. For the past 30 years Ernie, along with dedicated doctors, nurses (including Tina Candelari May ’64) and other volunteers have performed surgery on those in Honduras suffering from cleft lip and cleft palate. This is just one of the many works of service these two have been involved with over 43 years of marriage, all while raising eight children, who have since blessed them with 20 grandchildren.

The Class of 1969 is planning to “do lunch” on January 18, 2014, so mark your calendar now! Contact Mary Boudreaux Graham ’69 at ggraham8@ comcast.net to learn more.

Gloria Stalinsky Artigue ’69 and husband, Ron, have lived in Indiana for the last 37 years, where they raised their beautiful family.

Shirley Buvens Berg ’69 enjoys her position as executive director for a small Colorado retirement community that was once a Catholic girls’ boarding school started by a nun.

Rosalie Giammalva Bonura ’69 retired after 31 years at a Houston bank.

However, the banking industry called her back, and she William returned to work for Bank of Texas seven years ago.

Michele Anderson Gregory ’69 lives in Tampa with her husband, Bill. Michele retired after 36 years with the public school system and enjoys volunteering with the Humane Society, as well as running marathons. She says her most memorable race was in 2001 when she carried the Olympic Torch in Daytona Beach.

Kathy Nettles Heidtmann ’69 hosted an intimate gathering of close friends at her Galveston beach house in memory of classmate Shelley Clarac Musselman ’69, who passed away in 2011. Shelley’s sweet and welcoming demeanor positively affected everyone she came in contact with. Classmate Rosalie Giammalva Bonura ’69 recently commented at a June reunion, that Shelley “lit up the room” with her physical beauty and bright smile. We are sad at her passing and Shelley will remain in our hearts always.

Patricia Koetting ’69 is the Houston Area Hearings Manager for the Texas Health & Human Services Commission, where she has worked almost continually since college graduation.

Catherine Bilnoski Lutz ’69 enjoys her work as a school counselor in San Antonio.

She is looking forward to attending a Class of 1969 reunion this year.

Cronin Award L-R: Barbara Brissman Sharp ’64, Charla Ward Trader ’64, Theresa Pizzitola ’64, Candy Kane Cronin ’64, Mary Ann Sedita Mitchell ’64

26 | Alumnae Connections

results of her research at the annual meeting of the American Association of Physical Anthropologists in Knoxville this spring.

Katherine is a senior in UT’s Plan II honors program with a 4.0 GPA and a second major in anthropology.

Also studying at the University College Dublin following the Madagascar experience, she has managed to work in sidetrips throughout Ireland and faraway destinations in Europe such as Rome, Paris, Prague, Amsterdam, Edinburgh, Vienna, Oslo and Stockholm. Her travels and research were funded in part by the scholarships Katherine received upon leaving the Academy.

alumnaeupdates Carolyn Gullo Minor ’69 has moved back to Houston and enjoys plastering her walls with photos of her first grandchild, Jonathan.

Carolyn’s children think “Grammy” should make some wall space for their pictures, too.

Jeané Simmons Holmes, M.D. ’85 and husband, Shannon, welcomed twins – Bryce (boy) and Bailee (girl), on November 17, 2012, weighing 5 lbs. and 5 lbs. 10 oz., respectively. The family now lives in Colleyville, in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, where Jeané is a practicing OB/GYN in Ft. Worth.

Cathy Shinsky Moffett ’69 lives in Alvin with her husband, Rusty, where she works in her shop creating Lisa Yamin Holthouse ’85, the gorgeous stained glass windows. Her co-founder of Prepared for Life father recently joined their household. and Lemonade Day, has written Dini Eaton Pourciau ’69 and husband, a book - It All Started Ashley, recently celebrated their 40th with a Turtle. The book wedding anniversary. They enjoy describes, through volunteering and working in nearby colorful illustrations, Baton Rouge. They have four sons how a global movement and five grandchildren. of Lemonade Day was created from the dream Carolyn Lanzo Smith ’69 enjoys her of a little girl to add a job with the Houston steel industry and looks forward to retiring in a few turtle to her menagerie of pets. All proceeds years. She dotes on her three-yearfrom the sale of the book will old granddaughter. benefit Lemonade Day. Colleen Dilworth Stroup ’69 is living in Austin and enjoys staying in touch Melissa Garlington ’86 received with other SAA alums in the area.

The Junior League of Houston, Inc.’s Sara Houstoun Lindsey Aileen Whitfill ’69 and husband live Award in April. This award is in Washington, D.C. Aileen said they enjoy urban life, for a change of pace. presented annually to one active member of The Junior League who furthers its mission and vital role in the community by A group from the Class of 1983, identifying a need and dedicating and one from the Class of 1982, herself to addressing it through got together to celebrate birthdays her service. She is determined to with their dear “old” St. Agnes make a difference and, through friends. Pictured are (top) Connie Bambace Sadler ’83, Jane White Thompson ’83, Andrea Pizzitola Thompson ’83, Hope Ledwith Edick ’83, Catherine Castille Pierce ’83, (front) Melanie Strake Meeks ’83, Cuqui Rodriguez Baum ’83, Ana Maria Gonzalez Wood ’82.

1980s

example, inspire a shared sense of responsibility, living the mission of The League as a part of her everyday life. In April, Melissa was installed as the Pi Beta Phi Houston Alumnae Club’s Co-President.

Cheryl Noonan Stephens ’86 and husband, Rick, live in Portland, Texas, with their two sons, Joshua (23) and Craig (11). Joshua recently completed treatment for Hodgkins Lymphoma. He is a Seminarian at Holy Trinity Seminary in Dallas and will graduate from The University of Dallas in May. Following graduation, he will attend the Pontifical North American College Seminary in Rome, Italy, and the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas.

He expects to be ordained as a Diocesan Priest in about five years.

Craig races go karts and has won two championships with his kart club in New Braunfels. Cheryl is the payroll supervisor at GregoryPortland ISD. Christina Branum-Martin ’88 and husband, Lee, welcomed Elissa Anne on January 4, 2013, weighing 7 lbs. 12 oz. and 20 in. She joins big sister Mia. Class of 1983 + 1

LeeAnne Beckham Carlson ’84 and husband, Tim, raise 12 children and run Swede Farm Dairy in Waller County - a goat dairy that produces goat milk products. The dairy was recently featured in My Table and Edible Austin. Their goat cheeses can be found at farmers markets in Houston and Austin and should be on the shelves at Central Market shortly. (www.swedefarm.com) Alumnae Connections

| 27

alumnaeupdates William and Montgomery Jackson Stewart

1990s Emily Aguilar Capps ’93 and husband, Allen, welcomed Amelia Luisa Capps on February 6, 2013.

Amelia joins big brother Carter.

Megan Frazier Salch ’93 and husband, Trent, welcomed Grady Frazier Salch on February 21, 2013, weighing 8 lbs. 8 oz. He joins big sister Kylie.

Elizabeth Parsons Diaz ’94 married Adiad Diaz on December 8, 2012, at Sacred Heart Church in Galveston.

Several St. Agnes friends attended, including Raquel Fuquen Janoe ’94, Nicole Sitz Hix ’92, Julie Sacco ’92, and Renee Sitz Harris ’95. Sr. Donna M. Pollard, O.P. and Sr. Jane Meyer were also in attendance. (Below)

Andrea Montgomery Stewart ’94 and husband, Paul, welcomed Montgomery Jackson Stewart on August 17, 2012. His big brother William is over the moon to have a little brother to play with. The family lives in San Francisco.

Diana Staudt Pearson ‘98 and husband, Gary, welcomed Cora Louise on February 14, 2013. She joins three big brothers.

Xan Franklin Endrinal ’96 and husband, Chris (SJ ’96), welcomed Declan Dominic Endrinal on February 18, 2013, weighing 8 lbs. 3 oz. and measuring 20.5 in.

Aileen Simborio Van Pelt ’96, husband, Brian, and their two daughters, Alyssa (3) and Siena (17 mos.), moved from Kansas to South Florida to be near her sister, Jennifer Simborio Cicco ’97 and her husband, Vincent. Aileen’s husband accepted a news photographer position with the NBC affiliate, WPTV, in West Palm Beach. After 12 years in television news as an anchor/reporter, Aileen left the broadcasting industry for the nonprofit sector. In November 2012, she became the Media Relations and Development Manager at the Palm Beach Zoo. They have found a wonderful Catholic Church and school where Alyssa is in the Pre-K-3 program. They are enjoying beach life, weather in South Florida, and living closer to family.

Avery Ann Mouton

28 | Alumnae Connections

Cora Louise Pearson

Anna Nilsson Hanson ’99 is happy with her administrative role at an established computing solutions company in Austin. Meanwhile, she is still pursuing the visual arts, and has sold an original painting to HBO for use in their series Enlightened.

Tracy Toews Mouton ’99 and husband, Kenneth, welcomed Avery Ann Mouton on September 27, 2012, weighing 8 lbs. and measuring 20.5 in.

alumnaeupdates Jennifer Standish Wilhelm ’99 and husband, David, welcomed Lauren Ann Wilhelm On March 26, 2013, weighing 7 lbs. She joins big brother, Nathan.

2000s Lauren Robinson ’00 married Samuel Rogers (SJ ’01) at St. Anne Catholic Church on January 5, 2013.

The two met in Mr. Art Buckley’s Mixed Chorus and attended a Strake Jesuit dance together back in the early 2000s. They met up again in 2008, when Lauren was working in Washington, D.C. and Sam was there on business. Lauren McCarl Dutra ’00 served as a bridesmaid and Michelle Steffek ’00 served as a gift bearer at Mass. Heather Hoppens Massoud ’89’s son served as ring bearer. Several alumnae friends attended the wedding, including Andel Koester ’00, Frances Wygant Sharp ’01 and Renee Fontaine Illian ’03. The couple resides in Houston.

Jennifer Flynn Fortenberry ‘01 and her husband, welcomed twin girls on March 13, 2013. Kaselyn Lou measured 5.1 lbs. and 18 in., and Kinsey Lane was 4.12 lbs. and 18.5 in.

The girls join big brother Ryder.

Ryder and the Fortenberry twins

Tatiana Bakhoum ’03 graduated with a Master of Science in Hospitality Management from the Conrad N. Hilton College in December 2012. She moved to Spring and has accepted a full time position with Spectrum Catering, Concessions and Events as the Director of Staffing.

Jenny Phalen ’03 is engaged to be married on May 10, 2013, to Evan Hitch. The ceremony will be at Sacred Heart in Richmond, Texas, and the reception will be at the Sugar Land Marriott.

Cathleen Gready Fishel ’04 married her high school sweetheart, Michael, on April 21, 2012. Jessica Vickery Karlsruher ’95 served as matron of honor, sister Erin Gready ’12 was maid of honor, Valentina Echeverri ’04, Sarah Steiner Moore ’04, and Stacey Szydlik ’04 served as bridesmaids. Cathleen moved back to Houston from Austin in early 2012 and took a position as an Events and Sales Manager for Cordua Catering.

Elizabeth Marcum ’05 will be graduating in May from Oklahoma State University with a Master of Science in Community Counseling.

She will be working toward her Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) license and hopes to find

employment as an LPC under supervision. Upon graduation, she will be moving to Oklahoma City to begin her life with her fiancé, Daniel Sadler. Liz and Daniel will be married at Christ the King Catholic Church in Oklahoma City on October 26, 2013.

2010s Lindsay Buchanan ’10 was accepted to the Summer Insiders Challenge internship program at MSL Washington. MSL Washington is a branch of MSL Group, one of the top five PR networks in the world. Lindsay was selected out of 600 applicants to participate in the prestigious program. She will work on accounts for MSL’s healthcare, government affairs, and consumer branding clients this summer in the firm’s D.C. office.

Gready Fishel wedding

Teresa Macejewski ’10 and Michael Callegari (SJ ’10) were engaged on December 28, 2012, in front of the central door at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. Teresa is a junior at St. Edward’s University, and Michael is a junior at Auburn University.

Alumnae Connections

| 29

Sincere Sympathy is Extended to the Loved Ones of: Velma Salinas Flores ’50 Marc Francis Fontaine; father to Alice Fontaine Masquelette ’72 and Beverly Fontaine Hamilton ’75; grandfather to Renee Fontaine Illian ’03 and Mary Masquelette ’09

Paul A. Letteer; father to SAA faculty member Becky L. Rushing

Kenneth L. Rogers; husband to Alberta Perucca Rogers ’48

Gregory Thomas Leyden; grandfather to Lindsay Leyden ’09

Elynor Genevieve Ruddy; mother to Laurie Elizabeth Ruddy ’66 and Carol RuddyHara ’70

Billie Margine Free; mother to Sydney Free ’75

Edward Francis Linesch; grandfather to Sarah Linesch ’13, Alice Linesch ’14 and Grace Linesch ’16

Samuel Paul Sacco, Jr.; SAA Past Board Member; father to Kathryn Sacco Smith ’89 and Julie Sacco ’92

Wray Auten; grandmother to Melissa Gettings ’90

Robert Edwin Gourley; father to Cara Gourley ’06

Gabino Lombana; grandfather to Isabel Torras ’11

Charles Richard Schriber, Jr.; father to Alex Schriber ’02

Judge Arnulfo Daniel Azios; father to Norma Azios Johnson ’67 and Diana Azios Atchison ’72; grandfather to Courtney Atchison ’08

Joan Johmann Hanson; mother to Diane Hanson Marek ’79, Linda Hanson Goodman ’81 and Patricia Hanson Castillo ’83

Bridget (Bee) Doherty Long; mother to Mary Ann Long ’73

Angeline Michalak Cortez Bearden; attended SAA from 1955 to 1957

James R. Harrison, Sr.; father to Julie Harrison Mikel ’96

Frances Marie Mooney Seger; mother to Mary Frances Seger ’58 (dec), Victoria Seger ’65 and Jane Seger ’70; motherin-law to Marian Bogar Seger ’75; grandmother to Catherine Seger ’04, Caroline Seger ’12, Sarah Seger ’13 and Lucy Seger ’16

Dorothy Verna Andryan Bielamowicz ’42; sister to Rose Andryan Galla ’44 Michael Jefferson Boone; husband to SAA past faculty member, Susan Boone; father to Jessica Boone Murray ’01 Anna Veronica Niscavits Borski; mother to Angela Borski John ’59 and Bernice Borski Buchanan ’60 Christopher David Brallier; husband to Monica Benitez Brallier ’92 James J. Brosch; grandfather to Katherine Hall ’13 Gertrude (Trudy) Crapitto; mother to Linda Crapitto Rund ’61 and Antoinette (Nina) Crapitto Jones who attended SAA 1961-1963 Ronald K. Curlee; father to Gwendolyn Curlee ’89 Philip Edmund Davies; husband to Monte Meath Davies ’50 Harry Eichler; grandfather to Catie Eichler ’14

Phoebe Hatch; grandmother to Frances Padon ’05 Lula Faye Mitchell Heard; mother to Mary Heard ’78; grandmother to Holly Hunsaker ’05, Sarah Hunsaker ’07, Caroline Heard ’09, Annie Hunsaker ’12 and Claire Heard ’13 Walter Timothy Heckler; father to Chelsea Heckler ’10; stepfather to Sharon Jasmer Heckler ’91 Kora Marie Hollinger; grandmother to SAA faculty member Jeff Hollinger Robert Wayne Kellett; stepfather to Lisa Coleman ’99 Cara Jean Mueller Kendall ’43; sister to Johnnie Mueller ’47, Mewes Mueller Goetzmann ’52, Charlene Mueller McCarthy ’56 and Maud Mueller Lipscomb ’60 Dorothy Mae Quitta Knetsar ’40 Rudy Lange; grandfather to Lexi Miller ’12 and Sophie Belton ’15

Jean Maley Emmert ’47; sister to Joan Maley Ballard ’47 (dec)

Edward J. Layden, Sr.; grandfather to Sarah Linesch ’13, Alice Linesch ’14 and Grace Linesch ’16

Mary Anne Loving Fletcher ’61; sister to Nancy Loving Cohen ’66 (dec) and Kathy Loving Adamo ’73

Debra Ann Leggio; daughter to Dolores Emmite Aleo ’49; niece to Dolores Aleo Genitempo ’53

30 | In Memoriam

Josephine Orlando Marino; grandmother to Bernadette Lasala Scambray ’86, Cathy Marino Vanderford ’91 and Michelle Marino Brown ’00 Herschel Denny Morrison, Jr.; father to Susan Morrison ’64, Cheryl Morrison Chambers ’65, Sandra Morrison McMillan ’68 and Debbie Morrison Hennagir ’70; grandfather to Christine Chambers Quindt ’89 Evelyn G. “Jeri” Morrison; stepmother to Susan Morrison ’64, Cheryl Morrison Chambers ’65, Sandra Morrison McMillan ’68 and Debbie Morrison Hennagir ’70; step-grandmother to Christine Chambers Quindt ’89 Alan Gregory Murphy, Jr.; husband to Judy Reeder Murphy ’58 Jay Calhoun Nania; father to Christina Nania ’13 Annie Laurie Novo ’68; sister to SAA faculty member Charles Novo Anthony Rituza Palasota; former SAA faculty member Salvatore Panebianco; father to SAA Foundation Board Member Frank Panebianco; grandfather to Julia Claire Panebianco ’12 Caroline Brocco Patronella; grandmother to Michelle Patronella ’02 Laura Newell Pattillo ’46 Marianne La Point Purcell ’68 JoAnn Powers Raymond; grandmother to SAA faculty member Carleen Raymond ’00

Dorothy Phoebe Shortall; grandmother to Caroline Moreland ’13 Richard M. Simmons; father to SAA faculty member Kathi Thompson Geraldine Sklut; grandmother to SAA faculty member Anna Sklut Avery Mark Spears; father to Jenny Spears ’93 Mary Ellen Granberry Starr; mother to Mickie Starr ’55 (dec), Terry Starr ’58, Patsy Starr Shaw ’60 and Margie Starr Stinson ’65 Francis Geraldine Price Stevenson; grandmother to Mary Cate Stevenson ’10 Emily Susil Thoede; mother to Johnelle Thoede Moudry ’56 and Gloria Thoede Vargo ’69; grandmother to Sherry Moudry Schneider ’75, Christina Vargo ’89 and Rebecca Thoede Miller ’93 Jane Glen Thomas; mother to Diane Thomas Reilly ’81 Charles (Charlie) Oliver Tilbury, Jr.; husband to Margret (Betty) Johnston Tilbury ’47 Josephine Ann Koenig Vacek; mother to Joanne Vacek ’70 Victoria “Vicki” Myers Walla ’60

2013

class challenge The Class Challenge ends June 7.

Join this friendly competition among alumnae for the highest class percentage of participation in giving to St. Agnes Academy. Your support, at any level, is critical to all of those current and future young Academy women who walk these halls.

Show your class pride TODAY at www.st-agnes.org/give.

The winning class walks away with a party for all of their classmates, a commemorative paver on campus, and bragging rights over more than 9,000 alumnae!

Winner announced at the All-Class Reunion, Saturday, June 8. See you there!

Members of the 1906 society are individuals who have mentioned St. Agnes in any part of their estate plan, including wills, trust agreements, retirement plan assets or insurance policies.

Include the Academy as part of your planned giving and ensure the legacy of a diverse and challenging, college preparatory education imbued with the tenets of the Catholic faith for future generations.

We feel strongly about the education of young women.

We hope that legacy gifts such as ours will continue to keep St. Agnes on the forefront for years to come.

-1906 Society member, Karen Chapman

Learn more by contacting Lori Sebastian Pinter ’88 at lori.pinter@st-agnes.org.

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE PAID HOUSTON, TEXAS PERMIT NO. 2783

9000 Bellaire Boulevard | Houston, TX 77036-4683 | 713.219.5400 | st-agnes.org