The theme of our school year was centered around a quote from our foundress, Catherine McAuley, who famously said, we must try to do ordinary things extraordinarily well. Catherine recognized that effort and commitment in small tasks would set the foundation that would allow her students, and now ours, to overcome challenges, defend the vulnerable, engage in rigorous intellectual pursuits, show mercy and lead with principle and conviction.
As you read these pages, you will become immersed in the ways in which our students use their time and talents to improve the communities in which they live. You will see examples of friendship, tradition, selflessness, artistry and leadership that speak to the rich educational experience that is offered at St. Catharine Academy.
A welcoming and diverse community, a St. Catharine Academy education prepares our students for success in our increasingly global and interconnected world. As I finish my first year at SCA, I can affirm the words of Catherine McAuley, our students, in all they do, are simply extraordinary.
In Mercy, President
Faith and Service
We belong to God- all in us is His- Catherine McAuley
These words of Catherine McAuley continue to guide us today. Our faith and service programs go hand-in-hand as a reflection of the ways that we demonstrate the love of God through the love of our neighbor. Opportunities to pray, worship and contemplate are essential elements of an SCA education as they allow our students to develop their own personal relationship with God, and propelled by this, use their time and talents to act with mercy towards others.
Experiential Learning
Our annual spring break trip to Europe provides a global classroom for our students to engage in historical discovery, artistic appreciation and exploration of other cultures and languages. This immersion experience allows students to practice their language skills and brings to life the customs studied in class.
As part of the Close Up DC program, students in the AP US History Course traveled to Washington, DC, to meet with elected representatives, sit in on congressional hearings and experience the workings of government firsthand.
Eighth grade students, who are studying United States History, traveled to the 9/11 Memorial and Museum to gain a greater understanding of the events of that day, the aftermath and the way the city, country and the world continues to be impacted.
Sustainability and Wellness
Education and Advocacy are two key components of a St. Catharine Academy Education. Our students are growing up under the threat of Climate Change and the impact of COVID. Programs such as our student-initiated community garden and our mentoring and athletic clinics give our students the foundation to be advocates for health and wellness in their own lives and in their communities.
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Initiated by a student who noticed the lack of access to fresh fruits and vegetables in her local supermarket, the St. Catharine Academy Community Garden was weeded and seeded in April. The produce from the garden will be distributed to students and our school kitchen to help provide access to healthy fruits and vegetables to our community.
Body
Dr. Xellex Rivera, Founder of the IAmSHE Foundation, visits St. Catharine Academy at the start of her mentoring program. Students in the program met monthly and engaged in exercises that built confidence and self-esteem.
Chef and educator, Kathryn Lewis instructs students on ways to use ingredients to create healthy meals. Using science as the foundation, the students are taught how to affordably make nutritional meals and snacks.
Mercy Makers Giving Society Capital Campaign Update
At St. CatharineAcademy, our mission to educate and empower young women has always been made possible through the support of our alumni, benefactors, and friends.We are proud to introduce a new way for our community to make a lasting impact: the Mercy Makers Giving Society.
Members of the Mercy Makers are a dedicated group of donors who provide reliable, monthly contributions to ensure every Catharinite has access to the tools, resources, and opportunities she needs to succeed.This sustained generosity allows us to plan for the future confidently, knowing that we can continue to offer scholarships, enhance classroom learning, and support leadership programs for our students.
Whether it’s $10, $25, or $50 a month, every gift from our Mercy Makers helps to build a foundation of faith, learning, and service that transforms lives.Together, we are creating a brighter future for the young women of St. Catharine Academy—one month at a time.We invite you to join us in this meaningful initiative and become part of a legacy that makes a difference in the lives of our Catharinites.
Become a member of the society by scanning the QR code below.
Together Unstoppable, the campaign for a new athletic and wellness facility, is moving forward. St. Catharine has engaged Rainer Schrom and Stephen Grasso of Partners in Architecture to begin the pre-construction phase, which includes a site visit, survey, and initial outreach to the Department of Buildings to ensure that plans are in compliance with the NYC Building Codes. This facility will transform the athletic and wellness landscape of St. Catharine Academy and be a resource for our alumnae and community.
To make a gift towards the Capital Campaign, scan the QR code below.
Athletics Update
St. Catharine Academy continues to prioritize Athletics as a way for our students to build physical strength and opportunities to bond with other students and cultivate teamwork and communication skills. We expanded our programs this year to include a lacrosse clinic. Offerings will continue to expand as we improve and update our facilities.
Full Circle: An SCA Alumna’s Journey from Student to Parent Leader
For Valerie Batista, Class of 2006, returning to St. Catharine Academy isn’t just a walk down memory lane—it’s a chance to give back to the school that helped shape her into the woman she is today. “My experience at SCA will always be one to remember,” Valerie reflects.“When I first entered the school, I was going through a lot personally and had many doubts in myself. But the welcome I received was amazing, and I was instantly motivated to thrive.”
With the support of the SCA community, Valerie quickly came out of her shell. She became involved in the National Honor Society, Student Council, and Dance Club, building confidence and forming lifelong friendships along the way. Two of her most treasured memories? Celebrating Cultural Day and the beloved Ring Ceremony, both moments that captured the spirit of unity and sisterhood that defines SCA.
Now, as the President of the Family Association and the proud parent of a current student, Valerie is embracing a new chapter in her SCA journey. “It’s an amazing feeling to be able to give back to the school that made me who I am,”she says.“I love bringing the girls together and seeing them happy, it’s truly fulfilling.”
Valerie always knew SCA would be the school for her daughter.“I love the sisterhood experience she gets to be a part of. I was so happy to see that SCA now offers middle school, I didn’t hesitate when the time came to enroll her.”
“The heart of SCA is still the same: the sisterhood, the mentorship, the empowerment. But the school has grown stronger, and I’m proud to witness its evolution.”
Watching her daughter grow has been especially meaningful.“She’s very shy, but since starting at SCA, she’s opened up and started trying new things she wouldn’t have in the past. I hope that she finds her guide as she walks her journey.” Valerie sees both change and continuity since her days as a student. One change that has benefitted the school is the diversity of the student body. Understanding diverse perspectives and customs will equip SCA students to engage in a global world.
Being part of the SCA community today, Valerie says, is about lifting one another.“We’ve grown stronger as sisters. I love the women's empowerment and the many mentors who make a difference every day.”
Valerie Batista ‘06
Alumnae Remain Committed to SCA
St. Catharine Academy was proud to welcome back alumnae and friends of SCA for this year’s Career Day. Our guests generously shared their time, expertise, and personal career journeys with current students, offering valuable insights and inspiration. From healthcare and law to education and business, the day showcased a diverse range of paths and possibilities. We are grateful for the continued support of our Catharinite community your guidance is helping to shape the future of our young women.
St. Catharine Academy was delighted to welcome back members of the Class of 2024 for a special alumnae panel with the Class of 2025. Representing a range of colleges, including the University of Southern California, Cornell University, the University at Albany, Fordham University, and the University of Mount St. Vincent, our young alumnae shared thoughtful reflections on their first-year experiences.
Parents of recent Alumnae gathered to send Valentine’s Day greetings to the members of the Class of 2024 to remind them that SCA will always be home.
Embracing Sisterhood and Legacy
St. Catharine Academy launched a new tradition by formally welcoming the Class of 2025 into the SCA Alumnae Association. As part of this special rite of passage, each graduate received an SCA Alumnae Passport, which they can get stamped when they return to campus or visit other Mercy Schools, symbolizing their lifelong connection to the Mercy community.
The event featured a powerful and inspiring keynote address by Jamila Black ‘12, who returned to her alma mater to share words of encouragement and wisdom with the graduates. Jamila, a proud alumna from SCA, now serves as the Communications Officer at the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation, the largest grantmaking organization in New York.
Jamila spoke candidly about her upbringing in the Mott Haven section of the Bronx, where she was raised in a Jamaican and Puerto Rican household by a single mother and a devoted grandmother who instilled in her the belief that she was "meant for more." She reflected on her daily commute to school, her aspirations to work in communications, and the obstacles she overcame on her way to earning degrees from SUNY Albany and NYU.
She emphasized the importance of resilience, faith, and purpose, reminding students that setbacks can be transformative. "Your story," she said, "flaws and all, is your superpower."
Jamila also encouraged the graduates to embrace philanthropy in all its forms, explaining that true philanthropy is about giving oneself through mentoring, volunteering, and showing up for others, not just financial giving.
Finally, she spoke to the power of sisterhood, noting that the bonds formed in high school often endure and deepen over time. She reminded the Class of 2025 that they are stepping into a lifelong network of women who will uplift, support, and walk beside them, especially when life gets hard.
“Your life is an occasion. Rise to it,” she concluded, as she charged the graduates to step into the world as changemakers and history-makers.
Members of the junior class presented each senior with a yellow rose, a symbol of friendship and transition, generously provided by the Family Association. This touching gesture underscored the spirit of sisterhood and unity that defines the St. Catharine experience.
As we send our newest alumnae out into the world, we do so with pride, confidence, and the knowledge that they carry with them the values and strength of the St. Catharine Academy legacy.
Jamila Black ‘12
St. Catharine Academy celebrates the 136 Commencement Class th
St. Catharine Academy celebrated its 136th Commencement Ceremony, honoring the achievements and growth of the Class of 2025.
This year’s graduating class has much to celebrate. Collectively, the Class of 2025 earned over $12 million in academic scholarships and grants, a testament to their hard work, dedication, and academic excellence. These Catharinites will be continuing their education at prestigious institutions across the country, including Penn State University, Tufts University, New York University, Pace University, and Fordham University, among many others.
St. Catharine Academy was also proud to welcome Dr. Xellex Rivera, Ph.D., as the 2025 Commencement Speaker. Dr. X, as she is known, currently serves as the Chief Program Officer for Housing Solutions of New York. Inspired by her faith and driven by her commitment to justice, Dr. X embodies the Mercy Core Values through her principled leadership, compassionate advocacy, and unwavering courage. Her words inspired the graduates to lead lives of purpose, to raise their voices for others, and to embrace their roles as changemakers in the world. She encouraged the students to find their authentic self and reminded them that the sisterhood that they formed at St. Catharine Academy has laid the foundation for all they will do and become as they continue to college and beyond.
“The Sky is NOT the limit, it is only the beginning. And don’t forget—your power is already within you. Go use it.”
As they go forward into the next chapter of their lives, the Class of 2025 carries with them the strength of sisterhood, the foundation of faith, and the power of a Mercy education.
Congratulations, Class of 2025!
Amplifying the Female Voice
Since our founding in 1889, St. Catharine Academy has provided opportunities for young women to find their voice so they can advocate on the local and world stage for policies and programs that elevate the vulnerable and care for the needy.
In cooperation with Councilwoman Marmorato’s Office, students collected items for people impacted by hurricanes in North Carolina. The student leaders researched items that were most in need and informed the SCA community about the scope of the devastation.
Students participate in a Mock Model UN program in anticipation of launching a full team in September 2025. Model UN enables students to understand issues as they manifest themselves on the global stage.
The SCA community gathered in solemn remembrance of the lives lost on 9/11/2001 and took part in a ceremony that discussed the lasting impact of the events of 9/11 on our communities and our world.
Academic Rigor
St. Catharine Academy students engage in rigorous classwork that prepares them for college and beyond.
Whether it is using innovative teaching tools, like whiteboard tables, or participating in the SCA Robotics team, the only all-female team with a female coach in NYS, St. Catharine Academy Students are given opportunities to chase their passion, develop their critical thinking and analytic skills and use their talents to prevail inside and outside of the classroom.
Yearwood ‘15
St. Catharine Academy students’success in the classroom is recognized each year through induction into various nationally recognized academic honor societies, including the National Honor Society, Beta Honor Society, English Honor Society, Math Honor Society and History Honor Society. Induction into these prestigious societies takes place each spring. This year, the keynote address was given by Lydia Yearwood, Class of 2015. After graduating from St. Catharine Academy, Lydia went on to Mercy College (now University) and currently serves as the Assistant Director of PACT supporting first year students on their college journey. Lydia spoke of her own journey at SCA and beyond and reminded students that on their path, they must stop to rest, knowing that there is a God who loves them and accompanies them on their journey.
She remarked that in the midst of their busy days —Student Council meetings, late-night study sessions, service projects —God will grant a peace that is reflected in their scholarship, character, and servant hearts.
“You all have the willingness to press through life’s challenges, the strength to face your fears, and the ability to surprise even yourselves, with the immense amount of potential that exists within.”
She concluded by congratulating the students on their accomplishments and reminded them abide in God as they journey forward.
Lydia
Class Notes
Jeanette Liscio Kamciyan‘69
Mary Noone Rottino‘66
Jo-Marie DiBattista RN, MSN, MS‘77
Cathi McNulty Swett‘78
Elys Vasquez-Iscan‘93
Grace Rios‘19
Virginia Belloise Hotte‘64 and members of the Class of 1964
Shaniah Bennett‘17
Margaret Ann Lento-Solomon ‘88
Virginia Belloise Hotte writes,“A bunch of us from the 60th reunion have organized a luncheon on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at Fratelli’s Restaurant, Eastchester Rd. Bronx, NY. We are reaching out to all of you. Please join us. After all, we’re not getting any younger!”For additional details, email development@scahs.org.
1966
Mary Noone Rottino shared,“I recently reconnected with classmate Carol Murphy Rodino when we both took an Irish language class at a local community college. Since then we have enjoyed other events celebrating our Irish heritage.”
1969
Jeanette Liscio Kamciyan, Class of 1969, trained as a Nurse Practitioner with a Masters in Library Science, began writing and journaling as a creative element in her retirement. This activity blossomed into a children’s book series: The Incredible Trash Donkey that features the adventure of Josefina, the donkey, and her caretaker, Antonio as they pick up trash and learn life lessons. Set in Sicily, the books are perfect for readers aged 4-8.
1977
On April 16th, 2025, Jo-Marie DiBattista was inducted into Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing, chapter secretary of Alpha Gamma Kappa, Manhattanville University. Jo-Marie is currently Assistant Clinical Professor for the School of Nursing at Manhattanville University.
1978
Catherine McNulty Swett writes,“Proud to have worked on compromise legislation to restore adopted adults' access to our birth records; though I believe no one's record should be sealed in the first place.” #PleaseDontMakeMePracticeLawAnyMore working in films and television as a SAG member imdb.me/cathiswett
1979
Helen Fernandez Dennany shares,“My husband and I have retired to the mountains of Virginia. At our local Catholic Church, I am a lay minister and I am the youth minister. I have a teen youth group that I just started this year.”
1988
1989
Debra Brookes writes,“I was recently promoted to Chief Risk & Compliance Officer for the Wyoming Stable Token Commission.”
Margaret Ann Lento-Solomon married Scott on April 6, 2025. Margaret was joined by her SCA sisters.
1989
Jeanette Pizarro-Harpe writes,“After serving in the US Marine Corps for almost 7 years, I decided to write a book about my experience and overcoming adversity as a woman in a man's world. My book, Camouflaged Shame (uncensored) —A Path to Redemption After Military Sexual Trauma, is meant to shed light on this important topic and provide a path to healing.”
1993
Elys Vasquez-Iscan writes,“I have been recently promoted to Full Professor at the City University of New York. In addition, I began a new position on January 25, 2025, as Associate Dean of the School of Health Sciences, Human Services, & Nursing at Lehman College of the City University of New York (CUNY).”
2007
Amanda Guzman recently completed a one-year fellowship at the Center for Puerto Rican Studies at Hunter College as part of the inaugural year of a larger Rooted + Relational research initiative. As part of a team of Trinity College faculty and Hartford community partners, she was also just awarded a three-year Higher Education grant on Environmental Justice Studies from the Mellon Foundation.
2017
Shaniah Bennett shared,“ After graduating from St. Catharine Academy, I earned my Master’s in Education and Special Education from the University of Mount St. Vincent and began a career in education that has spanned over five years. I’m proud of how far I’ve come and grateful to SCA for laying the foundation. With hard work and determination, anything is possible.”
2019
Grace Rios graduated from the University of New Haven and is continuing her education to become a veterinary technician at WCC.
2021
Persaud‘21
2022
Angelina Persaud graduated from Manhattan University with a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering! I have a concentration in biopharmaceutical engineering and a minor in chemistry and mathematics. I was Magna Cum Laude and received the Omega Chi Epsilon award for "outstanding contributions and service to Manhattan University and the chemical engineering department."
Jessica DiBattista is entering her senior year at Manhattanville University. She is currently enrolled in an accelerated program, pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Communications and Media and a Master of Science in Early Childhood Education, with her master’s degree anticipated in 2027. Jessica was recently inducted into Lambda Pi Eta, the National Communication Association Honor Society, Alpha Epsilon Tau Chapter, in May 2025. In addition, she received the Valiant Award from Manhattanville University for the Communication Studies Outstanding Student Scholarship Award.
Adriana Testa earned her Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Sports Science from Keiser University in just three years, graduating with a 3.7 GPA.
In Memoriam
Sr. Patricia Allen, RSM
February 27, 2025
Thomas Patrick Crean
May 13, 2025
Barbara Del Guidice ‘61
October 31, 2024
Columbina Morando Dunne ‘80
February 23, 2023
Pia Lucia Bastone Egan ‘84
December 11, 2024
Eileen Fleming Fernandes ‘75
February 2, 2025
Deacon Joseph Hafemann
September 29, 2024
Husband of Janet Burckharadt Hafemann‘59
Eileen Forkin Klingen‘70
July 18, 2024
JoAnn Martucci
August 28, 2024
Mother of Joya Martucci Mancuso ‘88
Diane Welsh Marino‘72
April 7, 2024
Mother of Christine Marino ‘98
Allison McGoldrick ‘88
April 14, 2025
William J. Sussmann
July 18, 2024
Husband of Eileen Smyth Sussmann ‘59
Alice McDonald Wester ‘42
July 18, 2024
Erica Torres Vargas‘01
May 23, 2025
Adriana Testa‘22
Jessica DiBattista‘22
Angelina
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