The Torch 2024-2025

The Torch

St. Mary’s Dominican High School

Issue

From the President

“It was not you who chose me, but I who chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit that will remain, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name he may give you. This I command you: love one another.”

John 15:16-17

Dear St. Mary’s Dominican High School Community,

We hope you enjoy reading this edition of The Torch, A Year in Review. Join with us in giving God thanks for the many blessings of the 20242025 school year. From the numerous activities, accomplishments, awards, events, campus expansion and improvements, to historical ceremonies, all uniquely express our school’s ongoing commitment to Dominican Catholic education which seeks Truth, Veritas, through prayer, study, community, and service.

Congratulations to the Class of 2025 for your extraordinary Dominican spirit, spirituality, and scholarship! We are so proud of you! May you always seek the will of God for your lives and rely on God’s grace to strengthen and guide you.

The 2024-2025 school year also marked an historic chapter in St. Mary’s Dominican High School’s story with the Dominican Sisters’ establishment of Dominican Veritas Ministries. The ceremony on campus in February was an occasion to express gratitude for our Sisters and for their faithful stewardship of Dominican Catholic education. (See the story in this edition.)

We thank our students, parents and guardians of our students and graduates, our benefactors, alumnae, faculty, staff and administration, the leadership team and Board of Directors, Dominican Veritas Ministries, and the Dominican Sisters for all the ways that you have continued Dominican Catholic education.

Through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary and St. Dominic, let us pray for continued blessings on our Dominican community.

Gratefully,

Cynthia A. Thomas, Ed.D. President

MISSION STATEMENT

St. Mary’s Dominican High School is a Catholic collegepreparatory program for young women rooted in the tradition of prayer, study, community, and service. With Jesus at its center, the Dominican community preaches the Word, radiates joy, advocates peace, promotes justice, seeks Truth, manifests Catholic values, and ministers to others.

6 Seniors Recognized by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation v 126 honor graduates v Admission offers from 188 colleges & universities v Over $29 million in scholarships and awards v 1,o98 college credit semester hours earned v 26,603 community service hours completed v 185 class size

Class of 2025 A Toast of Praise!

CLASS OF 2025 Emma Nguyen

”

Graduation marks more than the end of "I

can't

The Valedictory Award, presented to the honor graduate who has achieved the highest cumulative grade point average in her program of studies, was merited by senior Emma Nguyen.

wait." It's not a celebration of how long we've idly stood by for the big milestone. It's a testament to all we've achieved in that waiting—the sisterhood we built, the challenges we overcame, the faith we cultivated, and the strong, independent women we've become.

”

Salutatorians

Harper Griffin

Reese Tatford

The Salutatory Award was presented to seniors Harper Griffin and Reese Tatford, the honor graduates who achieved the second highest cumulative grade point average in their program of studies.

Harper Griffin, a Dominican Scholarship Student and National Merit Scholarship Finalist, was a member of the Latin Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, National English Honor Society, National Honor Society, and Science National Honor Society. She will attend the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor.

Reese Tatford held membership in La Société Honoraire de Français, Mu Alpha Theta, National English Honor Society, and National Honor Society. She will attend the University of Florida.

Emma Nguyen, a Dominican Scholarship Student and National Merit Scholarship Finalist, was a member of Mu Alpha Theta, National English Honor Society, National Honor Society, Science National Honor Society, and Spanish Honor Society. She will attend Louisiana State University.

The Veritas Award was presented by St. Mary's Dominican High School President Dr. Cynthia A. Thomas to Gabriella Brent and Ava Ranson. The Veritas Award is the most prestigious award presented to a graduating Dominican senior. Selected by the leadership, administration, and faculty, the award recipient demonstrates exemplary understanding of the Dominican Charism. Following the example of St. Dominic de Guzman, founder of the Dominican Order, the Veritas Award recipient faithfully strives to seek Truth through prayer, study, community, and service. She preaches the Truth of the Gospel through the example of her life and calls forth the best in others.

The Mother Mary Magdalen O’Farrell, O.P. Service Award was presented by Dr. Cynthia A. Thomas to Kaitlin Vlosich. The award recognizes the student’s outstanding, dedicated service to St. Mary’s Dominican High School. Dominican life and growth are mirrored in her reflection of the school’s philosophy by belief in God and respect for the dignity of all human beings.

Veritas Award Service Award Alumnae Award

The Sr. Mary Ambrose Reggio, O.P. Alumnae Award was presented by Alumnae Association President Caroline McCall ’09 to Julianne Bellow and Ella Pitisci. The recipient is selected by her classmates as one who represents Dominican spirit. Dominican’s motto: “To Praise, To Bless, To Preach,” is an integral part of her life as is her commitment to truth, Veritas.

AOH Award

The Ancient Order of Hibernians (AOH) Award was presented by Dr. Cynthia A. Thomas to Maggy LeBlanc. Selected by administration, faculty, and students, the award is given to the senior who exemplifies the motto of the AOH: friendship, unity, and Christian charity.

American Legion Award

The American Legion Award was presented by Mr. Tom Nenos, a member of the American Legion Post 307, to Ava Ranson in recognition of possessing the essential qualities of leadership, honor, courage, patriotism, and service to school and community.

Scholarship Offers

*Scholarships and awards as of June 2025. Does not include Taylor Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS) awards.

Seniors earned more than

$29 million in Scholarships!

LILY MARIE ADAMS

Academic Merit Scholarship to Belmont University, Music Scholarship to Belmont University, Belmont 1890 Scholarship to Belmont University, Academic Merit Scholarship to Lipscomb University, Transformation Merit Resident Award to Louisiana State University, Legacy Scholarship to Loyola University New Orleans, Rising Artist's Award to Loyola University New Orleans

MEREDITH ANN ADAMS

Student Achievement

Academic Merit Scholarship to Belmont University, Presidential Scholarship to Drake University, Academic Merit Scholarship to Duquesne University, Academic Merit Scholarship to Lipscomb University, Academic Scholars Resident Award to Louisiana State University, Legacy Scholarship to Loyola University New Orleans, President's Scholarship to Loyola University New Orleans, Freshman Academic Scholarship to Mississippi State University, Non-Resident Tuition Scholarship to Mississippi State University, CU Scholar Scholarship to Texas Christian University, Presidential Scholarship to Drake University

KIMBERLY ALEXANDRA ALARCON

Dean's Scholarship to Loyola University New Orleans

VIDA VALENTINA ALVARADO

Watson Scholarship to Florida Southern College

PAYTON MARIE AMEDEE

Cutlass Scholarship to Charleston Southern University, Out-of-State Grant to Charleston Southern University, Citizenship Award to Spring Hill College, Gautrelet Award to Spring Hill College, Jaguar Achievement Admissions Scholarship to University of South Alabama, Out-of-State Tuition Waiver to University of South Alabama

CRISTIN RAE ANGELO

Out-of-State Capstone Scholarship to the University of Alabama, Academic Charter Scholarship to Auburn University, Merit Scholarship to Christian Brothers University, LA Tiger Legacy Superior Award to Louisiana State University, Tiger Excellence Scholar Resident Award to Louisiana State University, Academic Merit Non-Resident Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Academic Merit Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, STEM Major Non-Resident Scholarship to the University of Mississippi

GABRIELLE NANETTE ARENCIBIA

Presidential Scholarship to Hawaii Pacific University, Tiger Excellence Scholar Resident Award to Louisiana State University, Dean's Scholarship to Nova Southeastern University, Catholic High School Scholarship to Saint Thomas University, Villanova Scholarship to Saint Thomas University, Academic Recognition Award to Tulane University

MEREDITH CLAIRE ATTARDO

Out-of-State Capstone Scholarship to the University of Alabama, Academic Merit NonResident Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Academic Merit Scholarship to the University of Mississippi

EMILY ANN AUCOIN

Freshman Admissions Talent and Ability Scholarship to University of South Alabama, Out-of-State Tuition Waiver to University of South Alabama

The Class of 2025 gained acceptance into 188 colleges and universities around the United States and internationally

The University of Alabama • Alabama A&M University • University of Alabama at Birmingham • University of South Alabama • American University of Paris • Arcadia University • University of Arizona • Arizona State University • University of Arkansas • Auburn University • Barry University • Baylor University • Belmont Abbey College • Belmont University • Benedict College • Bethune-Cookman University • Bowie State University • Bradley University • Buffalo State University • Canisius University • Centenary College of Louisiana • College of Charleston • Charleston Southern University • Christian Brothers University • Clark Atlanta University • Clemson University • Cleveland State University • Coastal Carolina University • University of Colorado Boulder • Concordia University • University of Connecticut • Cornell College • Dallas Baptist University • University of Dallas • DePaul University • Dillard University • Drake University • Duquesne University • Eckerd College • Elmira College • Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University • Fayetteville State University • Florida Atlantic University • Florida Institute of Technology • Florida International University • Florida Southern College • Florida State University • University of Florida • Fordham University • Franklin University in Switzerland • Fresno Pacific University • Furman University • Georgia Southern University • Georgia State University • University of Georgia • Harris-Stowe State University • University of Hawaii at Manoa • Hawaii Pacific University • Hiram College • University of Holy Cross New Orleans • University of Houston • Houston Christian University • Howard University • Indiana University • Jackson State University • Jacksonville University • University of Kansas • Kennesaw State University • University of Kentucky • Lane College • La Salle University • LeMoyne-Owen College • Lincoln University Missouri • Lipscomb University • Long Island University • University of Louisiana at Lafayette • University of Louisiana at Monroe • Louisiana State University • Louisiana State University Alexandria • Louisiana State University Eunice • Louisiana Tech University • Loyola University Chicago • Loyola Marymount University • Loyola University New Orleans • Manhattan University • Marquette University • University of Maryland • University of Maryland Eastern Shore • Marymount Manhattan College • University of Mary Washington • University of Massachusetts Boston • Miami University • Millsaps College • Mississippi State University • University of Miami • University of Michigan-Ann Arbor • University of Mississippi • University of Missouri – Saint Louis • Morgan State University • Newman University • University of New England • University of New Mexico • University of New Orleans • Nicholls State University • Northwestern State University of Louisiana • North Carolina A&T University • North Carolina Central University • North Carolina State University • University of North Carolina at Asheville • University of North Florida • Norwich University • University of Notre Dame • Nova Southeastern University • Ohio State University • University of Oklahoma • Oral Roberts University • University of Oregon • Pace University • University of The Pacific • Palm Beach Atlantic University • Pennsylvania State University • University of Pittsburgh • Point Park University • Prairie View A&M University • Purdue University • Queens University of Charlotte • Quincy University • Regis University • Rhodes College • Rochester Institute of Technology • RoseHulman Institute of Technology • Rust College • College of Saint Benedict • Saint Mary’s College of California • Shaw University • St. Mary’s College of Maryland • Samford University • University of San Diego • University of San Francisco • Santa Clara University • Sarah Lawrence College • Savannah College of Art and Design • Selma University • Seton Hall University • Sewanee: The University of the South • Shawnee State University • Southern University at New Orleans • University of South CarolinaColumbia • University of South Florida • University of Southern Indiana • Southern Methodist University • University of Southern Mississippi • Southeastern Louisiana University • Spelman College • Spring Hill College • St. Edward’s University • Stony Brook University • Suffolk University • SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry • Talladega College • University of Tampa • Temple University • Tennessee State University • University of Tennessee Knoxville • University of Texas at Arlington • Texas Christian University• Texas College • Texas State University• Texas Tech University• Tulane University • University of Tulsa • Tuskegee University• Trinity University • United States Naval Academy • Utica University • Villanova University • University of Washington • Washington and Lee University • Wentworth Institute of Technology • University of West Florida • Western Oregon University • Wiley University • William Carey University • University of Wisconsin • University of Wisconsin Osh Kosh • Woodbury University • Xavier University of Louisiana • York College 4 | The Torch - 2024-2025

CAROLINE EMILY BAILEY

Ecce Quam Bonum Award to Sewanee: the University of the South, Rhodes Award Scholarship to Rhodes College, Transformation Merit Resident Award to Louisiana State University

OLIVIA ROSE BARTLETT

Provost Scholarship to the University of New Orleans, Counselor's Choice Scholarship to Louisiana Tech University

CLARKE JOELLE BATISTE

Founder's Scholarship to Howard University, Merit Scholarship to University of New Mexico, Academic Merit Scholarship to Xavier University of Louisiana, Presidential Scholarship to Millsaps College, Provost's Scholarship to Loyola University New Orleans, Tiger Excellence Scholar Resident Award to Louisiana State University

CAROLINE GRACE BAUR

Academic Excellence Scholarship to the University of Southern Mississippi, Bingham Cushman Stewart Scholarship to Louisiana State University, LA Tiger Legacy Superior Award to Louisiana State University, Tiger Excellence Scholar Resident Award to Louisiana State University, St. Matthew the Apostle Catholic Youth Leadership Award to the College of Her Choice

ABIGAIL MELANIE BEBEN

Cypress Scholarship to University of Louisiana at Lafayette, Legacy Scholarship to Loyola University New Orleans, President's Scholarship to Loyola University New Orleans

JULIANNE ALEXIS BELLOW

Dean's Scholarship to Loyola University New Orleans, Legacy Scholarship to Loyola University New Orleans, GAP Scholarship to South Carolina State University, Honors Scholarship to Southeastern Louisiana University, Joe Paul Leadership Scholarship to the University of Southern Mississippi

YARA ANTONELLA BENEDETTO

Dean's Scholarship to Loyola University New Orleans, Dean's Scholarship to the University of New Orleans, Dean’s Scholarship to Loyola University Chicago

RILEY MADELINE BONNET

Academic Scholars Resident Award to Louisiana State University, St. Dominic Knights of Columbus Catholic Youth Leadership Award to the College of Her Choice

CATHERINE MARIE BOQUET

Honors Housing and Meal Scholarship to Southeastern Louisiana University, Honors Scholarship to Southeastern Louisiana University, Outstanding Student Scholarship to Louisiana Tech University, Rhodes Award Scholarship to Rhodes College

OLIVIA GRACE BORDES

Women's Track and Field Scholarship to Loyola University New Orleans

KENNEDY GABRIELLE BOUTTÉ

Academic Merit Scholarship to Xavier University of Louisiana, Merit Scholarship to Texas State University, Presidential Scholarship to Marymount University, Provost’s Scholarship to Loyola University New Orleans

MEAH GIOVANNI BRADLEY

Academic Excellence Scholarship to University of Houston, Innovation Excellence Award to Louisiana State University, Tiger Excellence Scholar Resident Award to Louisiana State University, Academic Merit Scholarship to Xavier University of Louisiana, Out-of-State Tuition Waiver to University of South Alabama, Talent and Ability Scholarship to University of South Alabama, Provost's Scholarship to Loyola University New Orleans

ABIGAIL ANGELA BRANCH

Dean's Scholarship to Loyola University New Orleans

ALLYSON GRACE BREAUX

Dean's Merit Scholarship to University of Massachusetts Boston, Dean's Scholarship to Loyola University New Orleans, Legacy Scholarship to Loyola University New Orleans, Outstanding Student Scholarship to Louisiana Tech University, Cypress Scholarship to University of Louisiana at Lafayette, Presidential Scholarship to Stony Brook University

GABRIELLA MARION BRENT

Canes Achievement to University of Miami, Academic Merit Non-Resident Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Academic Merit Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Academic Scholars Resident Award to Louisiana State University, Innovation Prestige Award to Louisiana State University, Gold and Blue Scholarship to Florida International University, Illuminate Scholarship Program to Florida State University, Out-of-State Foundation in Excellence Scholarship to the University of Alabama, Hagan Scholarship to the College of Her Choice

”

MAIA ROSE BRIUGLIO

Academic Scholars Resident Award to Louisiana State University, Arrupe Scholarship to Loyola Marymount University, Early Action Award to Loyola Marymount University

MORGAN JULIA BUCHLER

Military Benefit Association Award to the College of Her Choice

ADDISYN ELIZABETH BUDDE

Capstone Scholar Scholarship to the University of Alabama, Chancellor's Merit Scholarship to University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Cypress Scholarship to University of Louisiana at Lafayette, Dean’s Scholarship to Suffolk University, Trustee Scholarship to Suffolk University, Merit Scholarship to College of Charleston, Outstanding Student Scholarship to Louisiana Tech University, True Blue Scholarship to Auburn University

AVA NICOLE BULOT

Academic Scholars Resident Award to Louisiana State University, Innovation Prestige Award to Louisiana State University, Academic Success Non-Resident Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Bayley Award to Seton Hall University, Out-of-State Collegiate Scholarship to the University of Alabama

BAILEY ALEXIS BUSH

Academic Excellence Scholarship to the University of Southern Mississippi, Crimson Pride Award to Indiana University Bloomington, Minds Move Mountains Scholarship to University of Oregon, Penn State Discover Award to Pennsylvania State University

MARIAH ALEXIS CADOR

Catholic High School Achievement Award to Seton Hall University, University Scholarship to Seton Hall University, Summer Scholarship to Seton Hall University, Baylor Distinction Award to Baylor University, Freshman Admissions Scholarship to University of South Alabama, Out-of-State Tuition Waiver to University of South Alabama, Out-of-State Green and Gold Scholarship to the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Honors Housing and Meal Scholarship to Southeastern Louisiana University, Honors Scholarship to Southeastern Louisiana University, Ignatian Leader Award to Spring Hill College, Leadership Scholarship to Howard University, Provost's Scholarship to Palm Beach Atlantic University, Trustee Scholarship to Loyola University Chicago

High school has been a journey of discovering who we are, and at the same time, who we are not. Through the Dominican values of prayer, study, community, and service, we have grown into high school graduates who are not just prepared for the next step in life but also grounded in the truth of what we stand for. Harper Griffin ’25, Salutatorian

”

Scholarship Offers Student Achievement

CARLY CAITLYN CAMBRE

Volunteer Scholarship to University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Academic Merit Scholarship to Clemson University, Flagship Scholars Resident Award to Louisiana State University, LA Tiger Legacy Excellence Award to Louisiana State University, New Arkansan Non-Resident Tuition Award to University of Arkansas, Out-of-State UA Scholar Scholarship to the University of Alabama, Vires Scholarship to Florida State University

A'JAH ANGELNETTE CANSELO

Achievers Scholarship to Howard University, Dean's Scholarship to Dillard University, Tiger Excellence Scholar Resident Award to Louisiana State University

LANIE RAE CENTOLA

Cypress Scholarship to University of Louisiana at Lafayette, Optimist Club of the Westbank’s Sylvia Ricks Scholarship to the College of Her Choice

SOFIA ALEJANDRA CHANES

Academic Scholars Resident Award to Louisiana State University

ANNABELLE NANA CHERAMIE

Academic Merit Non-Resident Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Academic Merit Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Robert C. Khayat Ole Miss First Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Academic Presidential Scholarship to Auburn University, Classic Scholars Waiver to the University of Georgia, Distinguished Scholar Scholarship to Southern Methodist University, Flagship Scholars Resident Award to Louisiana State University, LA Tiger Legacy Excellence Award to Louisiana State University

ALIVIA KAMMA CHRISTIANSEN

Academic Excellence Scholarship to the University of Southern Mississippi, Flagship Scholars Resident Award to Louisiana State University, Innovation Excellence Award to Louisiana State University, Live Oak Scholarship to University of Louisiana at Lafayette, Four-Year Housing and Meal Plan Scholarship to University of Louisiana at Lafayette, New Student Tech Stipend to University of Louisiana at Lafayette, President's Scholarship to Loyola University New Orleans, SCAD Academic Honors On-Campus Scholarship to Savannah College of Art and Design, SCAD Academic Honors Scholarship to Savannah College of Art and Design, Student Recognition Scholarship to Savannah College of Art and Design

MIHLEY MIGNON CLAYTON

Academic Heritage Scholarship to Auburn University, Bell Tower Scholarship to Furman University, Diehl Scholarship to Rhodes College, Baylor Distinction Award to Baylor University, Faculty Scholar Scholarship to Texas Christian University, Presidential Scholar Award to University of San Diego, Out-of-State UA Scholar Scholarship to the University of Alabama

ISABELLA LYNN CLESI

Badger Scholarship to Spring Hill College, Honors Housing and Meal Scholarship to Southeastern Louisiana University, Honors Scholarship to Southeastern Louisiana University, President's Scholarship to Loyola University New Orleans, Legacy Scholarship to Loyola University New Orleans, Outstanding Student Scholarship to Louisiana Tech University, Presidential Scholarship to Millsaps College, Rhodes Award Scholarship to Rhodes College, Trustee Scholarship to William Carey University

ANJALIE ELIZABETH CORDOVA

Catholic High School Scholarship to St. Edward's University, Edwardian Scholarship to St. Edward's University, Merit Scholarship to St. Edward's University, Loyola Scholarship to Loyola University New Orleans

AUBREY STASIA CRESPO

Academic Excellence Scholarship to the University of Southern Mississippi, Honors Scholar Award to the University of Southern Mississippi, Innovation Excellence Award to Louisiana State University, Tiger Excellence Scholar Resident Award to Louisiana State University

LYDIA LYNNE CUMMINS

Legacy Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, STEM Major Non-Resident Scholarship to the University of Mississippi

ANNEMARIE ALLEN DACUS

Academic Merit Non-Resident Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Academic Merit Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Non-Resident Alumni Award #3 to the University of Mississippi, Non-Resident Alumni Award #4 to the University of Mississippi, Tiger Excellence Scholar Resident Award to Louisiana State University

MARGAUX CLARE DAGLEY

Academic Merit Non-Resident scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Academic Merit scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Ole Miss Edge scholarship to the University of Mississippi

RILEY ALEXIS DANOS

Innovation Excellence Award to Louisiana State University

JULIA ANNE DAVIS

Volunteer Scholarship to University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Academic Merit Scholarship to Clemson University, Flagship Scholars Resident Award to Louisiana State University, New Arkansan Non-Resident Tuition Award to University of Arkansas, Out-of-State UA Scholar Scholarship to the University of Alabama, Superlative Award to University of South Carolina

ISABELLA CLAIRE DEPAULA

Academic Merit Non-Resident Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Academic Merit Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, STEM Major Non-Resident Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Academic Scholars Resident Award to Louisiana State University, Freshman Academic Excellence Scholarship to Mississippi State University, Non-Resident Tuition Scholarship to Mississippi State University, Honors Housing and Meal Scholarship to Southeastern Louisiana University, Honors Scholarship to Southeastern Louisiana University

” I am honored to graduate beside the most well-rounded, genuine, and determined group of young women I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know and love. God brought us all together for a reason, and we owe our many accomplishments to Him. His love and blessings have carried us to this day. And as we step into the next chapter, I know He’ll keep guiding us.

”

Reese Tatford ’25, Salutatorian

” ”

As we graduate from Dominican, we carry more than just knowledge. We leave with the strength to persevere through hardship, love with conviction, and savor every moment, both joyful and difficult. Emma Nguyen ’25, Valedictorian

IVY NICOLE DILIBERTO

Cypress Scholarship to University of Louisiana at Lafayette, Academic Excellence Scholarship to the University of Southern Mississippi

LAUREN ELIZABETH DONOFRIO

Academic Charter Scholarship to Auburn University, Manoa Academic Merit Scholarship to University of Hawaii at Manoa, Transformation Merit Resident Award to Louisiana State University, Military Order of Foreign Wars Louisiana Commandery to United States Naval Academy

KENNEDY ELIZABETH DUGGAN

Flagship Scholars Resident Award to Louisiana State University, LA Tiger Legacy Excellence Scholarship to Louisiana State University, Shell Honors Student Leadership Program Award to Louisiana State University, Out-of-State UA Scholar Scholarship to the University of Alabama, President's Scholarship to Loyola University New Orleans, Legacy Scholarship to Loyola University New Orleans

LIVY MARIE EASTMAN

Academic Presidential Scholarship to Auburn University, Catholic Scholarship to Christian Brothers University, Out-of-State Scholarship to Christian Brothers University, Diehl Scholarship to Rhodes College, Ecce Quam Bonum Award to Sewanee: the University of the South, Flagship Scholars Resident Award to Louisiana State University, LA Tiger Legacy Excellence Award to Louisiana State University, National Merit Finalist Scholarship to Florida State University, National Merit Scholarship Corporation Award to Florida State University, Out-of-State Tuition Waiver Scholarship to Florida State University, Vires Scholarship to Florida State University, National Merit Finalist Scholarship to the University of Alabama, National Merit Semifinalist Scholarship to Mississippi State University, Non-Resident Tuition Scholarship to Mississippi State University, President's Scholarship to Loyola University New Orleans, Presidential Scholarship to Millsaps College, Louisiana Italian Sports Hall of Fame scholarship to the College of Her Choice

ELLEN PATRICIA ELLIS

Volunteer Scholarship to University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Academic Charter Scholarship to Auburn University, Academic Scholar Resident Award to Louisiana State University

KATHRYN NICOLE ENGLER

Out-of-State Capstone Scholar Scholarship to the University of Alabama, Cypress Scholarship to University of Louisiana at Lafayette, Honors Scholarship to Southeastern Louisiana University, Loyola Scholarship to Loyola University New Orleans, Transformation Merit Resident Award to Louisiana State University

MILANA LENAI EVERSON

Cardoner Opportunity Grant to Loyola University New Orleans, Distinction Scholarship to University of Holy Cross

TAYLOR ELIZABETH FERINA

Innovation Excellence Award to Louisiana State University, Tiger Excellence Scholar Resident Award to Louisiana State University

MADISON GRACE FONSECA

Dean's Scholarship to Loyola University

New Orleans

MARGOT SOPHIA FONTES

Chancellor Scholarship to University of San Francisco, Edwardian Scholarship to St. Edward's University, Merit Scholarship to St. Edward's University, Freshman Educational Grant to Woodbury University, Loyola Scholarship to Loyola University New Orleans

ASHLEY MARIE FOURNIER

Dean's Scholarship to Loyola University New Orleans

LYNNETTE ISABELLA GALLARDO

Citizenship Award to Spring Hill College, Lettie Pate Whitehead Award to Spring Hill College, Spring Hill Merit Award to Spring Hill College

ZOE KATE GARBIN

Academic Dean's Scholarship to Eckerd College

SAHARA TAIS GARCIA

Baylor Distinction Award to Baylor University, Diehl Scholarship to Rhodes College, Distinguished Scholar Scholarship to Tulane University, Innovation Excellence Award to Louisiana State University, Tiger Excellence Scholar Resident Award to Louisiana State University, Presidential Scholarship to Loyola University Chicago

ALEXA JOY GEX

President Scholarship Award to the University of New Orleans, Volunteer Scholarship to University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Academic Charter Scholarship to Auburn University, Academic Merit Non-Resident Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Academic Merit Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Baylor Distinction Award to Baylor University, Entering Freshman Academic Excellence Scholarship to Mississippi State University, Non-Resident Tuition Scholarship to Mississippi State University, Founders' Scholars Scholarship to Southern Methodist University, Magnolia Scholarship to University Louisiana at Lafayette, Two-Year Partial Housing Scholarship to University of Louisiana at Lafayette, Out-of-state Foundation Scholarship to the University of Alabama, Presidential Scholarship to Christian Brothers University, TCU Scholar Scholarship to Texas Christian University

LINDSAY GENEVIEVE GOEBEL

Volunteer Scholarship to University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Academic Merit NonResident Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, New Arkansan Non-Resident Tuition Award to University of Arkansas Out-of-State Collegiate Scholarship to the University of Alabama, Recognition Award to University of South Carolina

MADILYN GRACE GRAVOIS

Tiger Excellence Scholar Resident Award to Louisiana State University

ELISE JULIA GRAZULIS

Ecce Quam Bonum Award to Sewanee: The University of the South, National Honors Award to St. Mary's College of Maryland, Presidents Scholarship to St. Mary's College of Maryland, President's Scholarship to Loyola University New Orleans, Presidential Scholarship to Loyola University Chicago, Presidential Scholarship to Millsaps College, Study Abroad Scholarship to Millsaps College, Distinguished Merit Art Award to Millsaps College

HARPER SIMONE GRIFFIN

Academic Presidential Scholarship to Auburn University, Flagship Scholars Resident Award to Louisiana State University, President's Scholarship to University of Maryland, Presidential Leadership Scholarship to the University of Georgia, Presidential Scholar Award to Tulane University

MOLLY REESE GUBERT

Academic Merit Non-Resident Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Academic Merit Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, STEM Major Non-Resident Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Loyola Scholarship to Loyola University New Orleans, Magnolia Scholarship to University Louisiana at Lafayette, Two-Year Partial Housing Scholarship to University of Louisiana at Lafayette

Scholarship Offers

”Student Achievement

We are going off into a world that expects us to already have the answers: what we want to do, where we want to go, and who we want to be. The truth is, we are still figuring that out, and that's okay. Our identity is something we must build piece by piece through our values and actions. Who you are and what you value are decisions you get to make and what you have the most control over in the world. By living out our truth and making sure our actions match our values, we live out our motto: Veritas.

Harper Griffin '25, Salutatorian

ANNABELLE SOPHIE HAMADA

Academic Heritage Scholarship to Auburn University, Academic Merit Non-Resident Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Academic Merit Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Engineering Scholarship to the University of Alabama, Out-of State UA Scholar Scholarship to the University of Alabama, Academic Merit Scholarship to Clemson University, Thrive Scholarship to the American University of Paris

ANNA GRACE HOUIN

Academic Excellence Scholarship to the University of Southern Mississippi, Magnolia Scholarship to University of Louisiana at Lafayette, Two-Year Partial Housing Scholarship to University of Louisiana at Lafayette, Out-of-State Capstone Scholarship to the University of Alabama, Presidential Merit Scholarship to Wentworth Institute of Technology, Early Action Scholarship to Wentworth Institute of Technology, Provost Scholarship to the University of New Orleans, Tiger Excellence Scholar Resident Award to Louisiana State University

AUBRY CHARLENE-MARTHA JACKSON

Transformation Merit Resident Award to Louisiana State University, Troy E. Quinn Award to Morgan State University

KAYLEIGH ELIZABETH JOLLANDS

Academic Award to University of the Pacific, Athletic Scholarship to University of the Pacific, Academic Scholars Resident Award to Louisiana State University, Athletic Scholarship to University of Southern Indiana, Florida Tech Academic Scholar Award to Florida Institute of Technology, Out-of-State Foundation in Excellence Scholarship to the University of Alabama, True Grit Achievement Award to University of Maryland, UG Athletic Tuition Scholar to Florida Institute of Technology

ELIZA RITTS JONES

”Volunteer Scholarship to University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Academic Merit NonResident Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Academic Merit Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Distinguished Scholar Scholarship to Tulane University, Faculty Scholar Award to Texas Christian University, Flagship Scholars Resident Award to Louisiana State University

ELLA MILLER JONES

Volunteer Scholarship to University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Academic Merit NonResident Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Academic Merit Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Academic Presidential Scholarship to Auburn University, Ecce Quam Bonum Award to Sewanee: The University of the South, Flagship Scholars Resident Award to Louisiana State University, Academic Merit Scholarship to Clemson University, Presidential Scholar Award to Tulane University

LUCIA ANN JOUANDOT

President Scholarship Award to the University of New Orleans, Academic Merit NonResident Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Academic Merit Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, STEM Major Non-Resident Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Academic Scholars Resident Award to Louisiana State University, Dr. Gene C. Robinson and Elaine G. Robinson Memorial Science Honors, Scholars Award to Louisiana State University, Out-of-State UA Scholar Scholarship to the University of Alabama, President's Scholarship to Loyola University New Orleans

HANNAH GRACE JUHAS

Academic Honor Award to Nicholls State University, Honors Program Scholarship to Nicholls State University, Housing and Meal Award to Nicholls State University

ELYSSA CLAIRE KEELER

Cardoner Opportunity Grant to Loyola University New Orleans

MARIYA KHAN

Dean's Scholarship to Loyola University

New Orleans, Dean’s Scholarship to Loyola University Chicago, Provost Scholarship to the University of New Orleans

NYLA ROSE LARSEN

Academic Scholars Resident Award to Louisiana State University, Bayley Merit Award to Seton Hall University, Catholic High School Scholarship to Seton Hall University, Field of Study Scholarship to Seton Hall University, University Scholarship to Seton Hall University, Pirate Achievement Grant to Seton Hall University, Fordham Tuition Award to Fordham University, Jogues Scholarship to Fordham University, University Scholar Award to University of San Francisco, Chancellor Award to University of San Francisco

MALAE NA'KE LOCKETT

Achievement Honors Scholarship to Savannah College of Art and Design

HANNAH MICHELLE LORUSSO

Academic Merit Non-Resident Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Freshman Admissions Scholarship to University of South Alabama, Out-of-State Tuition Waiver to University of South Alabama, Non-Resident Tuition Scholarship to Mississippi State University, Transformation Merit Resident Award to Louisiana State University

MERRILL JEAN LUTTRELL

Academic Merit Non-Resident Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Academic Merit Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Red and Blue Scholarship to the University of Mississippi

KEIRA LYNN MAHONEY

Academic Success Non-Resident Award to the University of Mississippi

ALAINA QUYNH-ANH MAI

Academic Merit Scholarship to Xavier University of Louisiana, Academic Scholarship to Florida Institute of Technology, Bell Tower Scholarship to Furman University, Diehl Scholarship to Rhodes College, Baylor Distinction Award to Baylor University, Flagship Scholars Resident Award to Louisiana State University, President's Scholarship to Loyola University New Orleans

GRACE ANNE MANDELLA

Academic Presidential Scholarship to Auburn University, Flagship Scholars Resident Award to Louisiana State University, National Merit Finalist Scholarship to the University of Alabama, Presidential Merit Scholarship to the University of Alabama, Presidential National Housing Scholarship to the University of Alabama, Presidential Scholarship to Tulane University

LAKEN MIA MARGAVIO

Academic Charter Scholarship to Auburn University, Academic Scholars Resident Award to Louisiana State University, Bluegrass Spirit Scholarship to University of Kentucky, William C. Parker Scholarship to University of Kentucky, Out-of-State Collegiate Scholarship to the University of Alabama

ELLA KATHERINE MARKS

Academic Merit Non-Resident Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Academic Merit Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Academic Scholars Resident Award to Louisiana State University, LA Tiger Legacy Excellence Award to Louisiana State University, Legacy Scholarship to Loyola University New Orleans, President's Scholarship to Loyola University New Orleans, Out-of-State UA Scholar Scholarship to the University of Alabama, Pirate Achievement Grant to Seton Hall University, University Scholarship to Seton Hall University, Catholic High School Achievement Award to Seton Hall University

VIOLET FLEUR MATHERNE

Academic Success Non-Resident Award to the University of Mississippi, Dean's Scholarship to the University of New Orleans, Merit Scholarship to University of New Mexico, Out-of-State Crimson Legends Scholarship to the University of Alabama, RIT Presidential Scholarship to Rochester Institute of Technology, Women in STEM Award to Rochester Institute of Technology, Transformation Merit Resident Award to Louisiana State University

JOSEPHINE GABRIELLE MELERINE

Academic Merit Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Academic Merit Non-Resident Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Academic Scholars Resident Award to Louisiana State University, LA Tiger Legacy Excellence Award to Louisiana State University, Merit Scholarship to College of Charleston, Vires Scholarship to Florida State University

ZOË RENEE MILLER

Troy E. Quinn Award to Morgan State University

ZOIE ELIZABETH MITCHELL

Athletic Scholarship to William Carey University, Dean's Scholarship to Loyola University New Orleans, Legacy Scholarship to Loyola University New Orleans

DANA MOHAMED

Dean's Scholarship to Loyola University New Orleans, Legacy Scholarship to Loyola University New Orleans

MOLLY MOLLERE

Dean's Scholarship to Loyola University New Orleans, Outstanding Student Scholarship to Louisiana Tech University

SOPHIA MARIA MORALES

Academic Enrichment Scholarship to Nicholls State University, Academic Honor Scholarship to Nicholls State University, Cypress Scholarship to University of Louisiana at Lafayette, Honors Scholarship to Southeastern Louisiana University, Honors Housing and Meal Scholarship to Southeastern Louisiana University, Presidential Scholarship to Christian Brothers University, Presidential Scholarship to Millsaps College, Provost’s Scholarship to Loyola University New Orleans

GABRIELA MUNOZ

Academic Honors Scholarship to Savannah College of Art and Design, Cypress Scholarship to University of Louisiana at Lafayette, Innovation Excellence Award to Louisiana State University, Tiger Excellence Scholar Resident Award to Louisiana State University, Sociedad Honoraria Hispanica Award to the College of Her Choice

SOPHIE MICHELLE NAQUIN

Academic Charter Scholarship to Auburn University, Academic Scholarship to Louisiana State University of Alexandria, Distinguished Scholar Award to the University of Oklahoma, National Buckeye Scholarship to the Ohio State University, Outstanding Student Scholarship to Louisiana Tech University, Presidential Scholarship to Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Women of Excellence Scholarship to Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

DIANA HUONG NGUYEN

Distinguished Scholars Award to Tulane University, Faculty Scholarship to Baylor University, Innovation to Excellence Scholarship to Baylor University, Baylor Distinction Award to Baylor University

EMMA GRACE NGUYEN

Colvard Future Leaders Scholarship to Mississippi State University, Freshman Academic Excellence Scholarship to Mississippi State University, Housing Scholarship to Mississippi State University, Non-Resident Tuition Scholarship to Mississippi State University, Distinguished Scholars Award to Tulane University, Flagship Scholars Resident Award to Louisiana State University, LA Tiger Legacy Excellence Award to Louisiana State University, Out-of-State Presidential Scholarship to the University of Alabama, University Scholarship to University of Notre Dame, National Merit Chevron Scholarship to the College of Her Choice

FINLEY ROSE NUNEZ

Academic Excellence Scholarship to the University of Southern Mississippi, President Scholarship Award to the University of New Orleans

KAVYA LOREN PARAMESH

Academic Scholarship to Florida Institute of Technology, Band Scholarship to Tulane University, Distinguished Scholar Waiver to University of Florida, Merit Scholarship to Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, Presidential Scholarship to Spring Hill College, Tuition Exchange Scholarship to Spring Hill College

MADISON ELAINE PEARCE

Academic Scholars Resident Award to Louisiana State University, Baylor Distinction Award to Baylor University, Out-of-State Collegiate Scholarship to the University of Alabama, UM Special Recognition Scholarship to the University of Mississippi

LONDYN AMIYHA PERRY

Emerging Scholars Award to Talladega College

ISABELLA THAO-UYEN PHAM

Dean's Scholarship to Loyola University New Orleans, Innovation Superior Award to Louisiana State University, Transformation Merit Resident Award to Louisiana State University

LINDSEY NOELLE PHILLIPS

Academic Heritage Scholarship to Auburn University, Academic Merit NonResident Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Academic Merit Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Academic Scholars Resident Award to Louisiana State University, Dean's Scholarship to Nova Southeastern University, President's Distinguished Award to University of Louisiana at Monroe

LAUREN ANH PIPITONE

Academic Merit Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Academic Merit Non-Resident Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Flagship Scholars Resident Award to Louisiana State University, Go Global Award to High Point University, Presidential Award to High Point University, Tuition Free Master's Degree to High Point University, HOOT Scholarship to Florida Atlantic University, Spirit of Atlantic Scholarship to Florida Atlantic University, Out-ofState UA Scholar Scholarship to the University of Alabama, UA Leadership Achievement Scholarship to the University of Alabama, President's Scholarship to Loyola University New Orleans

ELLA CATHERINE PITISCI

Academic Merit Non-Resident Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Academic Merit Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Out-of-State UA Competitive Admissions Scholarship to the University of Alabama

”

The Class of 2025 is something very special. I've seen intelligence, creativity, and kindness in every corner of this group. But what truly sets us apart is how we live out all that Dominican has taught us—not just academically, but in how we lead and love. You've shown compassion, stood up for each other, and loved without hesitation. That's sisterhood.

”Reese Tatford ’25,

Salutatorian

Samantha Wild ’24, Salutatorian

REESE ELIZABETH TATFORD

Academic Scholarship to Centenary College of Louisiana, Baylor Distinction Award to Baylor University, Flagship Scholars Resident Award to Louisiana State University, Legacy Scholarship to Loyola University New Orleans, Out-of-State Presidential Scholarship to the University of Alabama, Out-of-State Tuition Waiver Scholarship to Florida State University, President's Scholarship to Loyola University New Orleans, Purple and Gold Scholarship to University of Washington, Summer Scholarship to Seton Hall University, University Scholarship to Seton Hall University

CLAIRE MICHELE PONDER

Gautrelet Award to Spring Hill College, Jaguar Achievement Scholarship to University of South Alabama, Out-of-State Tuition Waiver to University of South Alabama

RAEGAN AUBREY PORCHE

Out-of-State Capstone Scholarship to the University of Alabama

LUCILLE CARMELLA PORTEOUS

New Arkansan Non-Resident Tuition Award to University of Arkansas

AVA ELIZABETH RANSON

Academic Merit Non-Resident Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Academic Merit Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Student Body President Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, New Arkansan Non-Resident Tuition Award to University of Arkansas, Tiger Excellence Scholar Resident Award to Louisiana State University

OLIVIA KAY RANSON

Academic Success Non-Resident Award to the University of Mississippi, Tiger Excellence Scholar Resident Award to Louisiana State University

SYDNEY GRACE RANSON

Academic Excellence Scholarship to the University of Southern Mississippi, Academic Success Non-Resident Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Tiger Excellence Scholar Resident Award to Louisiana State University

MEGAN NATHALIE ROBICHAUX

Academic Success Non-Resident Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Ben Franklin Leadership Award to Franklin University, New Arkansan Non-Resident Tuition Award to University of Arkansas, Out-of-State UA Competitive Admissions Scholarship to the University of Alabama, Veritas Scholar Award to Southern Methodist University

EMMA NICOLLE SCHOLL

Academic Merit Scholarship to Western Oregon University, Academic Scholarship to University of Tulsa, CSU Merit Award to Cleveland State University, Flagship Scholars Resident Award to Louisiana State University, Presidential Scholarship to Millsaps College

KIERSTEN ELIZABETH SMITH

Academic Common Market Recipient to Coastal Carolina University, HTC Honors Scholarship to Coastal Carolina University, Provost's Scholar Scholarship to Coastal Carolina University, Merit Scholarship to College of Charleston, Nautilus Scholarship to University of West Florida, Presidential Merit Scholarship to University of Tampa, Presidential Scholarship to Hawaii Pacific University, Presidential Scholarship to Nicholls State University, University Merit Scholarship to University of New England, Dean's Scholarship to Nova Southeastern University, Dean's Scholarship to University of Connecticut

SOPHIE ANN SPERA

Volunteer Scholarship to University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Academic Charter Scholarship to Auburn University, Academic Scholars Resident Award to Louisiana State University, Academic Merit Award to University of Kansas

KAMRYN KIERSTIN STANLEY

Cypress Scholarship to University of Louisiana at Lafayette

KENNEDI MAKAYLA ELISE STEELE

Academic Merit Scholarship to Manhattan University, Academic Scholarship to University of Pittsburg, Bancel Family Posse Books Scholarship to Villanova University, Bancel Family Posse Meal and Housing Scholarship to Villanova University, Bancel Family Posse Scholarship to Villanova University, Baylor Distinction Award to Baylor University, Diehl Scholarship to Rhodes College, Merit Scholarship to College of Charleston, President's Scholarship to Trinity University, Presidential Scholarship to Loyola University Chicago, University Scholarship to Arizona State University

ABBEY GRACE SWEENEY

Colvard Future Leader Scholarship to Mississippi State University, Famous Maroon Band Scholarship to Mississippi State University, Non-Resident Tuition Scholarship to Mississippi State University, Out-of-State UA Scholar Scholarship to the University of Alabama, Spirit of Saint Bernard Scholarship to the College of Her Choice, Antique Auto Club of America Scholarship to the College of Her Choice

ELLA MARIE THERIOT

LA Tiger Legacy Merit Scholarship to Louisiana State University, Transformation Merit Resident Award to Louisiana State University

ELLE GIANNA THOMAS

Academic Excellence Scholarship to the University of Southern Mississippi, LA Tiger Legacy Superior Award to Louisiana State University, Tiger Excellence Scholar Resident Award to Louisiana State University, Outof-State Crimson Legends Scholarship to the University of Alabama, St. Rita Knights of Columbus Catholic Youth Leadership Award to the College of Her Choice

HANNAH ELIZABETH TRAHAN

Academic Presidential Scholarship to Auburn University, Dean's Scholarship to Fordham University, Flagship Scholars Resident Award to Louisiana State University, Freshman Admissions Talent and Ability Scholarship to University of South Alabama, Out-of-State Tuition Waiver to University of South Alabama, Out-of-State Presidential Scholarship to the University of Alabama, Presidential Scholarship to Sarah Lawrence College, Presidential Scholarship to Tulane University

THERESA QUYNH-TRAM TRAN

Innovation Excellence Award to Louisiana State University, Tiger Excellence Scholar Resident Award to Louisiana State University, Presidential Scholarship to Loyola University Chicago

MADELEINE GRACE TREGLE

Academic Excellence Scholarship to the University of Southern Mississippi, Dance Scholarship to the University of Southern Mississippi, Cypress Scholarship to University of Louisiana at Lafayette, Dean's Scholarship to Marymount Manhattan College, President's Scholarship to Pace University

MADELINE GRACE TROENDLE

Honors Housing and Meal Scholarship to Southeastern Louisiana University, Honors Scholarship to Southeastern Louisiana University

MADELYN NOEL TRUXILLO

Academic Merit Non-Resident Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Academic Merit Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Chancellor's Award to University of San Francisco, Ignatius Scholarship Award to University of San Francisco, Dean's Scholarship to Loyola University New Orleans, Freshman Admissions Talent and Ability Scholarship to University of South Alabama, Out-ofState Tuition Waiver to University of South Alabama, Non-Resident Tuition Scholarship to Mississippi State University, Out-of-State UA Competitive Admissions Scholarship to the University of Alabama, Pere Marquette Scholarship to Marquette University, President's Scholarship to University of Dallas, Transformation Merit Resident Award to Louisiana State University

HALEY MARIE VALDINE

Academic Merit Non-Resident Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Academic Merit Scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Academic Presidential Scholarship to Auburn University, Flagship Scholars Resident Award to Louisiana State University, Academic Merit Scholarship to Clemson University, Out-of-State Presidential Scholarship to the University of Alabama

KAITLIN MARIE VLOSICH

Academic Scholars Resident Award to Louisiana State University, Badger Scholarship to Spring Hill College, Presidential Scholarship to Spring Hill College, Saint Mary’s Dominican College Corporation Scholarship to Spring Hill College

MADISON ANN WARDEN

Cypress Scholarship to University of Louisiana at Lafayette, Honors Award to University of Holy Cross, Presidential Scholarship to Nicholls State University

LAUREN GRACE WEBRE

Academic Scholars Resident Award to Louisiana State University

HELEN AMELIA WETZEL

Academic Heritage Scholarship to Auburn University, Academic Scholar Merit Award to University of South Carolina, Ecce Quam Bonum Award to Sewanee: The University of the South, Engineering Scholarship to the University of Alabama, Out-of-State UA Scholar Scholarship to the University of Alabama, Flagship Scholars Resident Award to Louisiana State University, Freshman Admissions Talent and Ability Scholarship to University of South Alabama, Out-of-State Tuition Waiver to University of South Alabama

VICTORIA ELIZABETH WIEBELT

Academic Charter Scholarship to Auburn University, Academic Recognition Award to Tulane University, Academic Scholars Resident Award to Louisiana State University, Distinguished Scholar Waiver to University of Florida

ZYLLAH AKAI WOOTEN

1855 Scholarship to Elmira College, Academic Achievement Scholarship to College of Saint Benedict, Voyager Scholarship to College of Saint Benedict, Academic Merit Scholarship to Xavier University of Louisiana, Academic Scholarship to Norwich University, Alumni Scholarship to La Salle University, Benefactors Scholarship to Canisius University, Cardoner Opportunity Grant to Loyola University New Orleans, Christian Service Scholarship to Dallas Baptist University, Emeritus Scholarship to Hiram College, Gael Scholarship to Saint Mary's College of California, Jet Community Award to Newman University, Merit Scholarship to Utica University, National Academic Scholarship to Cornell College, Red Scholarship to University of Missouri – Saint Louis, Non-Resident Scholarship to University of Missouri – Saint Louis, Orange and Black Academic Award to Buffalo State University, Patriot Honor Award to Dallas Baptist University, President's Promise Scholarship to Wiley University, Quest Whole Leader Scholarship to Oral Roberts University, Robert Blazel Scholarship to Quincy University, University Grant to Houston Christian University, York College Award to York College

RACHEL GRACE ZAMJAHN

Legacy Scholarship to Millsaps College, Premiere Scholar Finalist Award to Millsaps College, Presidential Scholarship to Millsaps College

Profile of a Dominican Graduate

A Dominican graduate is encouraged to be a woman of integrity who seeks Truth, Veritas. Embracing the Dominican program and aspiring to its ideals, she:

National Merit Student Achievement

The National Merit Scholarship Program is an academic competition for recognition and scholarships that began in 1955. High school students enter the program by taking the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test.

Finalists

The National Merit® Scholarship Corporation (NMSC®) recognized Dominican seniors Livy Eastman, Harper Griffin, Grace Mandella, and Emma Nguyen as National Merit Finalists for 2025. They were among the 15,000 Finalists in the 70th annual National Merit® Scholarship Program. As Finalists, these academically talented high school seniors had an opportunity for some 7,500 National Merit Scholarships worth more than $32 million that were offered in the spring. To be considered for a Merit Scholarship® award, Semifinalists must fulfill several requirements to advance to the Finalist level of the competition. Emma Nguyen was selected as a winner of a National Merit® Chevron Scholarship. Livy Eastman and Grace Mandella were selected as winners of a college-sponsored National Merit Scholarship. Approximately 830 distinguished high school seniors won corporate–sponsored National Merit Scholarship awards financed by about 125 corporations, company foundations, and other business organizations. Approximately 3,600 National Merit Scholarships were awarded from 150 colleges and universities.

Commended

Dominican seniors Diana Nguyen and Kavya Paramesh were named Commended Students in the 2025 National Merit® Scholarship Program. Commended Students place among the top 30,000 students who entered the competition by taking the Preliminary SAT/ National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. Although these students did not continue in the competition for National Merit Scholarships, they were recognized for their exceptional academic promise.

Kavya Paramesh

Diana Nguyen

Grace Mandella

Livy Eastman Harper Griffin Emma Nguyen

In July 2024, 20 Dominican Students (Class of 2025) and 21 graduates (Class of 2024) of St. Mary’s Dominican High School earned the designation of AP Scholar by the College Board in recognition of their exceptional achievement on the college-level Advanced Placement Program (AP) Exams. AP tests are scored on a scale of 1-5.

AP Scholars

The AP Scholar designation recognizes students who earned scores of 3 or higher on three or more AP exams. The AP Scholar with Honor designation recognizes students who earned an average of 3.25 on all AP exams taken and scores of 3 or higher on four or more AP exams. The AP Scholar with

recognizes students who earned an average score of 3.5 on all AP exams taken and scored 3 or higher on five or more AP exams.

Sana Baig ’24 AP Scholar

Faith Calagna ’24 AP Scholar with Honor

Krystal Fernandes ’24 AP Scholar

Kennedy Duggan ’25 AP Scholar

Annabelle Cheramie ’25 AP Scholar

Alivia Christiansen ’25 AP Scholar

Sofia Chanes ’25 AP Scholar with Distinction

Eliza Christovich ’24 AP Scholar

Bryce Couvillon ’24 AP Scholar with Honor

Ellen Ellis ’25 AP Scholar

Kathryn Fine ’24 AP Scholar with Distinction

Lauren Giardina ’24 AP Scholar with Honor

Rachel Haase ’24 AP Scholar with Distinction

Harper Griffin ’25 AP Scholar with Honor

Annabelle Hamada ’25 AP Scholar

Ella Jones ’25 AP Scholar

Distinction designation

AP Scholars Student Achievement

Le ’25

Scholar with Distinction

Kaitlyn Nguyen ’24

Scholar with Honor

Bridget Palermo ’24 AP Scholar

Kavya Paramesh ’25 AP Scholar with Distinction

Isabella Sachitano ’24 AP Scholar

Emma Scholl ’25 AP Scholar with Distinction

Meredith Kononchek ’24 AP Scholar

Sahithi Koneru ’24 AP Scholar with Distinction

Amie Lewis ’24 AP Scholar

Isabella Koenig ’24 AP Scholar

Brooke Lambert ’24 AP Scholar

Minseung Kim ’24 AP Scholar

Mary

Grace Mandella ’25 AP Scholar with Distinction

Diana Nguyen ’25 AP Scholar

Ella Marks ’25 AP Scholar with Honor

Jill Neumeyer ’24 AP Scholar

Emma Nguyen ’25 AP Scholar with Distinction

AP Scholars Student Achievement

College Board National Program Scholars

College Board National

African American Recognition

Program Scholars Mihley Clayton Natalie Cage

Seven Dominican students were among 32,000 students from across the country to earn academic honors from the College Board’s National Recognition Programs. The designation is based on the students’ remarkable academic achievements and outstanding performance on the PSAT and/or AP exams. The College Board, which administers the PSAT and SAT among its activities, recognizes academic excellence through its National Recognition Programs. Students selected for this prestigious honor can cite it on their college and scholarship applications. In turn, colleges use the listing of this honor as a way of identifying students from underrepresented groups (i.e., ethnic minorities and/or those who attend school in rural areas or small towns), who have excelled on their PSAT/ NMSQT, PSAT 10, or AP exams and in their classwork.

College Board National Hispanic Recognition Program Scholar

Victoria Wiebelt ’25 AP Scholar with Distinction

Helen Wetzel ’25 AP Scholar with Honor

Samantha Wild ’24 AP Scholar with Distinction

Kaitlin Vlosich ’25 AP Scholar with Honor

Rachel Zamjahn ’25 AP Scholar with Distinction

Rachael Tatford ’24 AP Scholar with Distinction

Sophie Spera ’25 AP Scholar with Distinction

Reese Tatford ’25 AP Scholar with Distinction

Hannah Trahan ’25 AP Scholar with Honor

Camille Truxillo ’24 AP Scholar with Distinction

Allyson Breaux

Sofia Chanes Alivia Christiansen Lillian Cruz Julianne Sanchez

Student Achievement

8TH GRADE

STATE LITERARY RALLY:

Charlotte Burke – 4th place, Physical Science

Julia Porteous – 4th place, Spanish I

Alcee Aime – 3rd place, Latin I

FOREIGN LANGUAGE AWARDS

National Latin Exam - Beginner Latin:

Ava Truxillo – Magna Cum Laude

Erin Holley – Cum Laude

National Spanish Exam - Spanish I:

Chloe Cobb – Honorable Mention

Sophie Thomas – Honorable Mention

Lane Vonderhaar – Honorable Mention

Jenna Millet – Bronze

Julia Porteous – Silver

Maya Parker – Silver

Le Grand Councours, the National French Exam:

Julia Strickland – Mérite

Cienna Woods – Mérite

Anna Hattier – Mérite

FRESHMEN

STATE LITERARY RALLY:

Therese Hymel – 1st place, Geometry

Sophia Perez – Superior Rating, Low Voice Solo

Elizabeth Redmann – Superior Rating, Low Voice Solo

FOREIGN LANGUAGE AWARDS

National Latin Exam - Intermediate Latin:

Camille Hymel – Summa Cum Laude

Elizabeth Redmann – Summa Cum Laude

Madelyn Nguyen – Maxima Cum Laude

Therese Hymel – Magna Cum Laude

National Spanish Exam - Spanish II:

Mary Claire Arana – Honorable Mention

Hiba Awadalah – Honorable Mention

Addison Crescioni – Honorable Mention

Grace Guidry – Honorable Mention

Macie Hebert – Honorable Mention

Amelia Hernandez – Honorable Mention

Caroline Horsman – Honorable Mention

Talia Madi – Honorable Mention

Lucy Sabrio – Honorable Mention

Eliah Sheridan – Honorable Mention

Olivia Taffaro – Honorable Mention

Avery Boland – Bronze

Eleanor Button – Bronze

Sophia Perez – Silver

Jasmine Clavijo – Gold

Le Grand Councours, the National French Exam:

Angie Garcia – Platinum Award, Level 1

Evelyn Aucoin – Bronze Award

Audrey Owen – Mention d’Honneur Award

Madison Krail – Mérite

Kate Raymond – Mérite

SOPHOMORES

STATE LITERARY RALLY:

Andrea Lagos – Excellent, High Voice Solo; Superior, Spanish Thematic Expressions

Clara Marshall – 1st place in the State, French III, Overall Winner

Leah Plaisance – 4th place, Algebra II

Emily Praner – 2nd place, French II

FOREIGN LANGUAGE AWARDS

National Latin Exam - Intermediate Latin

Reading Comprehension:

Sadie Cambre – Cum Laude

Shanlee Raimer – Magna Cum Laude

Ann Varughese – Gold Summa Cum Laude

National Spanish Exam - Spanish II Honors: Jahree Brinson – Bronze

National Spanish Exam - Spanish III Honors: Lourdes Hanemann – Gold

Hailey Walker – Silver

Victoria Salazar – Silver

Kayden Wortmann – Honorable Mention

Andrea Lagos – Honorable Mention

Sociedad Espanola of New Orleans – José

Luis Banõs Award

Victoria Salazar

American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese - LA Chapter Poster Contest

Elizabeth Aubin – First Place, Digital Category

Emma Lirette – 2nd Place, Digital Category

Lourdes Hanemann – 2nd Place, Hand Drawn Category

Riya Shah – 2nd Place, Hand Drawn Category

Le Grand Councours,

National French Exam:

Aoife Reed – Gold Award

Clara Marshall – Mention d’Honneur Award

Sophia Hamada – Mérite

Leah Plaisance – Mérite

JUNIORS

STATE LITERARY RALLY:

Amiya Bullie – Superior Rating, Spanish IV Extemporaneous Speaking

Anastasia Redmann – Superior Rating, High Voice Solo

FOREIGN LANGUAGE AWARDS

National Latin Exam - Advanced Latin Prose

Reading

Abigail Nuccio – Magna Cum Laude

Natalie Cage – Gold Summa Cum Laude

Grace Chategnier – Gold Summa Cum Laude

American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese - LA Chapter Poster Contest

Marisa Acevedo - 3rd Place, Digital Category

National Spanish Exam - Spanish I:

Anastasia Redmann – Bronze

National Spanish Exam - Spanish III Honors:

Isabella Rojas – Silver

Cristina Mejia – Honorable Mention

Mia Rodriguez – Honorable Mention

National Spanish Exam - Spanish IV AP

Vanessa Liu – Bronze

Amiya Bullie – Honorable Mention

Victoria Thomas – Honorable Mention

Isabelle Tsien – Honorable Mention

Prix d’Excellence de L’Union Francaise: Evariste DeWenter

Le Grand Councours, the National French Exam:

Evelyn Ieyoub – Bronze Award

Golda Templeman – Mention d’Honneur Award

Bella McMahon – Mérite

CFA LEADER ACADEMY

This year members of Student Council participated in the Chick-fil-A Leader Academy. They learned valuable leadership skills and made a positive impact on not only our school but also out in the community.

8th graders: Caroline Abercrombie, Catherine Andrade, Eliza Palmisano, Julia Porteous, Julia Stone, Kasey Bartholomew, Kenley Jackson, Lillian Courtenay, Madeleine Millet, Molly Evans, and Olivia Anderson. Freshmen: Alenna Nitcher, Avery Boland, Caroline Horsman, Edome Solomon, Elle Orgeron, Emma Underwood, Hailey

Daugherty, Isabelle Higgins, Sissy Smallpage, Zoey Ochoa, and Valentina Smith.

Senior Academic Honor Day

SENIORS

STATE LITERARY RALLY:

Emma Nguyen – 1st place, Calculus

Ashley Montoya – 2nd place, Spanish IV

FOREIGN LANGUAGE AWARDS

Council for the Development of French in Louisiana Award

Karis Brooks

Joseph Adams Senior Scholarship, Spanish Honor Society of the American Association of Teachers and Spanish and Portuguese

Gabriela Munoz

Spanish National Exam - Spanish IV AP

Ashley Montoya – Honorable Mention

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS AWARD

Maggy LeBlanc received the Knights of Columbus Patriotic Award, presented by Philip Oliver from the local Knights of Columbus. The award recognizes the senior who has displayed the principles of Charity, Unity, Fraternity, and Patriotism and in doing so has shown the highest degree of citizenship by helping others, especially those who are less fortunate.

ST. MARY’S DOMINICAN COLLEGE CORPORATION SCHOLARSHIP

Kaitlin Vlosich received the St. Mary’s Dominican College Corporation Scholarship, presented by Sr. Angeline Magro, O.P., a representative of the scholarship committee. The scholarship is in memory and honor of the Dominican Sisters of St. Mary who established, maintained, and supported St. Mary’s Dominican College and St. Mary’s Dominican High School.

2024-2025 STUDENT COUNCIL EXECUTIVE BOARD

Student Council Executive Board (E-board) officers were presented with E-Board Medals in recognition of their outstanding leadership and service (from left):

President Ava Ranson

Vice-President Julianne Bellow

Secretary Ella Pitisci

Treasurer Gabriella Brent

Service

Service is one of the four pillars of Dominican life and collectively during their years at Dominican, the Class of 2025 completed 26,603 hours of service.

Twelve students earned the St. Mary’s Dominican Service Award by performing more than 300 hours. Honorees and their total hours were Mariya Khan (308), Sophie Spera (330); Rachel Zamjahn (350); A’Jah Canselo (355), Ashley Montoya (365), Mary Le (401), Aubry Jackson (403), Victoria Wiebelt (410), Emma Nguyen (414), Bailey Bush (465), Cassidy Pierre (517), and Zyllah Wooten (630).

From left: Zyllah Wooten, Cassidy Pierre, Bailey Bush, Emma Nguyen, Victoria Wiebelt, Aubry Jackson, Mary Le, Ashley Montoya, A'Jah Canselo, Rachel Zamjahn, Sophie Spera, and Mariya Khan.

Academic Honors Student Achievement

SCHOLASTIC ARTS AND WRITING COMPETITION

Dominican seniors Riley Bonnet, Sarah Miller, Alivia Christiansen, and junior Hannah Solomon, received Honorable Mention awards in this year’s Scholastic Arts and Writing Competition for the Southern Region-at-Large. They were recognized for accomplished works submitted to local programs showing great skill and potential.

The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards are presented by the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers. The Alliance is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to identify students with exceptional artistic and literary talent and present their remarkable work to the world through the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards. The Awards give students opportunities for recognition, exhibition, publication, and scholarships. Students across America submitted nearly 340,000 original works this year in 29 different categories of art and writing.

Riley Bonnet ’25 Painting Any Port in a Storm Sarah Miller ’25 Drawing & Illustration

Italy’s Eyes of Eighty Years Alivia Christiansen ’25 Drawing & Illustration Have a Slice Hannah Solomon ’26 Mixed Media Rosey Shoes

Student Achievement Academic Honors

NATIONAL COUNCIL OF TEACHERS OF ENGLISH AWARDS

Chloe Cobb '29 Superior Maya Parker '29 Superior

DOMINICAN JUNIORS RECEIVE ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS IN WRITING FROM NCTE

Dominican students Emi Lou Nathan, Tess Carriere, and Abigail Nuccio were recipients of the 2025 Achievement Awards in Writing, given by the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE).

The NCTE Achievement Awards in Writing is a school-based writing program established in 1957 to encourage high school students to write and to recognize some of the best student writers in the nation. Only students who are juniors may participate.

This year, schools nominated 680 students. From the United States, students were nominated from 41 states and Washington, D.C. Internationally, teachers nominated students from China, Guatemala, Jordan, South Africa, South Korea, Switzerland, Taiwan, and Thailand. Two to three independent judges evaluated each submission holistically on content, purpose, audience, tone, word choice, organization, development, and style.

DOMINICAN 8th GRADERS NAMED PROMISING YOUNG WRITERS BY NCTE

Students Chloe Cobb and Maya Parker were recognized as 2025 Promising Young Writers by the National Council of Teachers of English.

The Promising Young Writers Program represents NCTE’s commitment to early and continuing work in the development of writing. The school-based writing program was established in 1985 to stimulate and recognize writing talents and to emphasize the importance of writing skills among eighth-grade students.

This year, schools nominated 226 students to participate in the Promising Young Writers Program. They were nominated from 34 states, as well as Puerto Rico and Washington, D.C. Internationally, teachers nominated students in India, Russia, and Taiwan. Two to three independent judges evaluated each submission holistically on content, purpose, audience, tone, word choice, organization, development, and style.

Celebrating Art - National Art Contest

CelebratingArt.com is devoted to the promotion and appreciation of student art. Their student art contests intend to motivate student artists. The top entries are published in an anthology that will record the creative works of today's student artists.

FALL 2024: Sophomore Ardenne Kijko, Tears of the Wind; Juniors Madeline Cantrelle, Tiger Eye; Theresa Carter, Roses; Gabriele Davis, Guarding Colors; Claire Judge, Baby Deer; Elise Kerisit, Dancing My Way Through Life; Seniors Payton Amedee, Hot Dogs in H-Town; Cristin Angelo, Baked Goods; Riley Bonnet, Youthful Perception; Alivia Christiansen, Have a Slice; Elise Grazulis, Nine Inch Tails; Anna Houin, Breath of Life; Sarah Miller, Eyes of Italy (also a High Merit Winner); Madison Minor, Capital Views; Grace Ohlmeyer, Birds of a Feather; Raegan Porche, Edge of Thrill; Hannah Trahan, Bedazzlements; Madeline Troendle, Mr. and Mrs.; Helen Wetzel, Grahmy the Cat.

SPRING 2025: Sophomores June Diket, Swinging in the Sunset; Xuan Hoang, Self-Portrait; Juniors Madeline Cantrelle, Pop Art Selfie; Theresa Carter, Medusa; Sophia Mendieta, Red Bottoms; Seniors Vida Alvarado, The Colosseum; Addison Blackwood, Queen Bee; Riley Danos, Ginny the Golden Girl; Mary Grace Ditta, Faces of Nature; Milana Everson, My Mother; Zoe Garbin, Roseate Spoonbill Sunset; Sydnei Harvey, Creole Purple Knight ’79; Madison Minor, Rearview, Hannah Trahan, Conversation Formula.

Tess Carriere '26 Superior

Emi Lou Nathan '26 First Class

Abigail Nuccio '26 Superior

Student Achievement Student of the Year Nominees

8th grader Eliza Palmisano and 12th grader Kaitlin

Vlosich were Dominican’s Student of the Year nominees in the Louisiana Catholic School Student of the Year Program. They were nominated as outstanding students who demonstrate excellence in discipleship, leadership, service, citizenship, and academic achievement.

Keep Christ in Christmas Winners

Following the Mass of the Immaculate Conception on campus, St. Mary’s Dominican High School 8th grader

Julia Porteous and junior Hannah Solomon were recognized as Keep Christ in Christmas winners for their essays. The Clarion Herald, the Department of Catholic Education, and Faith Formation Council of Catholic School Cooperative Clubs sponsor the annual essay, poetry, and poster contest for students who attend Catholic elementary and high school and students who participate in Parish Schools of Religion. All winning essays were printed in the December 21st issue of The Clarion Herald.

Book Awards

Eleven St. Mary’s Dominican High School juniors were presented Book Awards from universities and colleges to celebrate achievement of the Junior Class.

The annual Book Awards are in recognition of academic excellence, strong character, and commitment to community service. School counselors, teachers, and administrators nominate the student or students they feel best embody the criteria set by each college or university.

Anastasia Redmann –The Brandeis University Book Award

Leah Gilmore – The Dartmouth Club of the Gulf Coast Award

Natalie Cage – High Point University Book Award

Enna Hawes – The Lasell University Book Award

Emily Nathan – The Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) Art and Design Award

Caroline Scaffidi –The RIT Business and Leadership Award

Vanessa Liu – The RIT Computing Award

Abigail Nuccio – The RIT Science and Math Award

Evariste Dewenter – The RIT Humanities and Social Sciences Award

Marisa Acevedo – The RIT Women in Stem Award

Simone Gaudet – The Tulane Book Award

Perfect 36 on the ACT

Juniors who received Book Awards are (from left): Marisa Acevedo, Evariste Dewenter, Abigail Nuccio, Vanessa Liu, Caroline Scaffidi, Emily Nathan, Natalie Cage, Anastasia Redmann, Leah Gilmore, Enna Hawes, and Simone Gaudet.

At the award presentation for winning Keep Christ in Christmas essays are (from left) St. Mary’s Dominican High School Principal Mrs. Carolyn Favre, junior Hannah Solomon, presenter Fern Lambert Carr, 8th grader Julia Porteous, and Dominican President Dr. Cynthia A. Thomas.

posse Scholarship

St. Mary’s Dominican High School senior Kennedi Steele was awarded a Posse Foundation Scholarship during ceremonies at the National World War II Museum. She was among 51 honorees out of 676 applicants and will be attending Villanova University as a member of Posse 6. The Posse Foundation identifies, recruits, and trains individuals with extraordinary leadership potential. Posse Scholars receive full-tuition leadership scholarships from Posse’s partner colleges and universities. “During our Dynamic Assessment Process, Kennedi demonstrated admirable leadership, intellect, and a commitment to making a difference,” said Sherdren Burnside, Director, the Posse Foundation.

Hagan Scholarship

Gabriella Brent ’25 was the recipient of a Hagan Scholarship, a nationwide need-based merit scholarship designed to help students graduate college debt-free. It provides recipients with a practical understanding of important life skills.

$1 million in Scholarships

Livy Eastman, Kennedi Steele, and Zyllah Wooten each received $1 million in college scholarships!

Dauphin Island

Summer 2024 at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab in Alabama, Angeli Bautista ’27 was among 30 students in the Residential Marine Science Class, an immersive four-week academic class that introduces high school students to the marine science field. Lectures, labs, and catching and tagging a variety of fish were among the assignments.

Leadership Academy

Veronica Matherne ’28 was chosen to attend the 2025 Louisiana Girls Leadership Academy (LGLA) at Nicholls State University. LGLA is a premier leadership-building opportunity offered to young women in grades 9-12 throughout Louisiana. The program focuses on communication, networking, teamwork, and enhancing leadership skills. Participants immerse themselves in a real-world mock election, learning valuable skills from civic and business leaders. The program is for determined young women ready to learn new leadership skills to bring back to their high schools and serve in leadership roles. During her three-day stay on the Nicholls State University campus, Veronica participated in team-building workshops geared towards public speaking and leadership skills. Veronica was selected to serve as the Campaign Manager for her competitive team, which won the overall "Best Campaign" at the closing ceremony.

Eagle Scout

Sophia Salvaggio ’28, a member of Troop 117 in Metairie, earned the rank of Eagle Scout with the Boys Scouts of America (BSA). Eagle Scout is the highest rank attainable in the BSA. Since its inception in 1911, only four percent of Scouts have earned this rank after a lengthy review process.

(From left): Dominican's College Counselor Andrea Rye, senior Kennedi Steele, Counseling Department Chair Julie Pitisci, and President Dr. Cynthia A. Thomas after the Posse Foundation Scholarship ceremony.

Scholarships Student Achievement

Olivia Anderson

Milton H. Lintz, Jr. Scholarship

Meah Bradley

Alice W. Perelli – Girl’s Hope Endowed Scholarship

Hailei Clark

Drs. Jewell (Lozes) and Richard Wunderlich Endowed Scholarship II

Maryah Creighton

The Kitchen Family Endowed Scholarship

Taylor Davila

Carolyn Wood Kinabrew Endowed Scholarship; Joyce Saia Palermo Martin de Porres Scholarship

Reagan Flynn

Von Wolff I Endowed Scholarship; Mary Ann Mattingly Sherry Endowed Scholarship; Ann M. Lewis Endowed Tuition Grant Scholarship

Catelyn Fornaris

Sr. M. Teresa Mittelbronn, O.P. Endowed Scholarship; Jay and Charlotte Mince Bourgeois ’62 Scholarship Fund

Lucy Fornaris

Sid and Harry Kammer II Endowed Scholarship; Glenn Mary Garritty Gandolfi ’46 and Stanley Joseph Gandolfi Scholarship

Kaylee Gonzalez

Maria (Maruja) Fernandez Leon Tuition Grant Assistance

Anna Houin

Drs. Jewel (Lozes) and Richard Wunderlich Endowed Scholarship II

Brooklyn Johnson

Shirley “Sherps” Wiemers Endowed Scholarship

MaReya Lockett

Joy Nesanovich Hillebrand and Laurene Nesanovich Kinberger Endowed Scholarship; Virginia Phillips Gaudet Endowed Scholarship

Juliette Louis Jeune

Margaret Allen and Elmo C. Waltzer Endowed Scholarship; David and Cindy Anderson Harlan ’71 Scholarship Fund

Kali Moseley

Sr. Delia McDonald, O.P. Endowed Scholarship; Helen Kuehne Evans ’43 Scholarship

Karinne Prados

Elaine Prager Ridgley ’53 Endowed Scholarship; Elaine Bernissant Conlan Scholarship Endowed Fund

Suri Price Reuther Family Endowed Scholarship; Julie Waltzer Flick ’69 Endowed Scholarship Fund

St. Mary’s Dominican High School awarded scholarships to 24 students during the St. Martin de Porres Scholarship Awards ceremony, which honored recipients and benefactors. St. Martin de Porres is the patron saint of social justice.

Aimme Ramirez

Drs. Jewel (Lozes) and Richard Wunderlich Endowed Scholarship II; Sr. Mary Veronica Miceli, O.P. Endowed Scholarship

Ja’Niya Robinson

James P. Raymond Jr. Foundation Endowed Scholarship; Sr. Mary Veronica Miceli, O.P. Endowed Scholarship

Adriana Snyder

Leah and Jill Weis Scholarship; Lew and Linda Satterlee Myers ’68 Scholarship

Julia Stone

Ruth U. Fertel Endowed Scholarship; Endowed Agape Scholarship in Memory of Mary Truxillo Boudreaux ’51

Golda Templeman

The Grandparent’s Tuition Assistance Fund

Kate Vatter Irish Blessing Scholarship

Macie Wennemann

Joseph G. and Marguerite Ayala ’35 Lier Endowed Scholarship; The Chiappetta Family Scholarship, Dorinda, ’83, Shelly, ’85, and Dawn ’89

Mallory Wennemann

Blanchard-Kelvin Memorial Scholarship; Dorothy D. Porter II Endowed Scholarship

Dominican scholarship recipients, Front Row (from left): Adriana Snyder, Olivia Anderson, Hailei Clark, Maryah Creighton, Taylor Davila, Reagan Flynn, Catelyn Fornaris, Lucy Fornaris, Kaylee Gonzalez, and Anna Houin. Back Row (from left): Brooklyn Johnson, MaReya Lockett, Juliette Louis Jeune, Kali Moseley, Karinne Prados, Suri Price, Aimme Ramirez, Ja’Niya Robinson, Julia Stone, Golda Ghahremani Templeman, Macie Wennemann, and Mallory Wennemann. Not Pictured: Meah Bradley and Kate Vatter.

During the St. Mary’s Dominican High School Academic Scholarship Ceremony in honor of St. Thomas Aquinas, scholarships were awarded to 30 incoming 8th graders representing 15 different elementary schools and one rising Dominican sophomore, to acknowledge her achievements in Dominican’s Fine Arts program. Academic scholarship awards are based on the students’ academic records and their performance on the High School Placement Test.

Elizabeth Bartlett

Christian Brothers School

Dorothy Caruso Duplantier ’74 Scholarship

Lucie Bartlett

St. Philip Neri School

Karen Graffagnini Favret ’62 Endowed Scholarship

Sophie Crisler

St. Dominic School

Drs. Jewell (Lozes) and Richard Wunderlich Endowed Scholarship

Caroline Daly

Christian Brothers School

Von Wolff II Endowed Scholarship

Mercie Denning

St. Pius X School

The Father Jean Marie Germain Tuition Endowed Scholarship

Campbell Derbes

St. Catherine of Siena School

Vivian Agnes Chasez Coney Memorial Endowed Scholarship

Georgia Kate Dunbar

St. Dominic School

The Alumnae Association Endowed Scholarship

Margaux Foret

St. Catherine of Siena School

Denise Galatoire Schoen Endowed Scholarship

Leah Galliano

Christian Brothers School

Audrey and John Cocchiara Scholarship

Elle Gaudet

St. Angela Merici School

Ruth U. Fertel Endowed Scholarship

Catherine Horsman

St. Pius X School

Veritas Endowed Scholarship

Anabel Huard

Haynes Academy

Class of 1961 Scholarship

Zahraa Isvandi

Kehoe France School

Dorothy D. Porter I Endowed Scholarship

Ramsey Macicek

St. Catherine of Siena School

Sr. Angeline Magro, O.P. Scholarship

Allison Mayeur

St. Rita School

Carol Lohfink Drawe Endowed Scholarship

Harper Mutter

St. Catherine of Siena School

Patricia J. Blanchard Endowed Scholarship

Sarah Parker

St. Dominic School

St. Valentine Berrio-Ochoa Scholarship

Mary Perrier

St. Pius X School

Sr. Waldia Warden, O.P. Endowed Scholarship

Layla Raymond

St. Dominic School

St. Valentine Berrio-Ochoa Scholarship

Laura Redmann

Holy Name of Jesus School

Kathleen Lier Endowed Scholarship

Alice Schoen

St. Catherine of Siena School

Sid and Harry Kammer Endowed Scholarship

Ana Sequeira

Hynes Charter School

Gauthier Endowed Scholarship

Vivienne Swain

Hynes Charter School

Class of 1959 Scholarship

Vivienne Thomas

Christian Brothers School

Class of 1957 Endowed Scholarship

Alyssa Tran

St. Ann School

The Joan Frischertz Mascaro Endowed Scholarship

Ryan Truhe

St. Francis Xavier School

Siena Endowed Scholarship

Lola Voitier

Christian Brothers School

Karen Mary Tull Memorial Scholarship

Sloane Waggenspack

St. Pius X School

Lolita Fernandez de la Reguera Pittman Endowed Scholarship

Sofia Walker

Holy Name of Jesus School

Dr. and Mrs. William Dardis Endowed Scholarship

Juliette Whipple

Ursuline Academy

Lynn and Arthur S. Mann Family Scholarship

Gianna Yusuf

St. Mary’s Dominican

Irish

High School

Blessing Scholarship

Scholarship recipients: Seated (from left) Elizabeth Bartlett, Sophie Crisler, Caroline Daly, Mercie Denning, Campbell Derbes, Georgia Kate Dunbar, Margaux Foret, Leah Galliano, Elle Gaudet, Catherine Horsman, Anabel Huard. Standing: Zahraa Isvandi, Ramsey Macicek, Allison Mayeur, Harper Mutter, Sarah Parker, Mary Perrier, Laura Redmann, Alice Schoen, Ana Sequeira, Vivienne Swain, Vivienne Thomas, Alyssa Tran, Ryan Truhe, Lola Voitier, Sloane Waggenspack, Sofia Walker, Juliette Whipple, and Gianna Yusuf. Not pictured: Lucie Bartlett and Layla Raymond.

Claudia Vallejo

Excellence in Holocaust Education Award Recipient

Dominican Spanish teacher Mrs. Claudia Vallejo was the 2024 Drs. Emil and Anna Steinberger Excellence in Holocaust Education Award recipient, presented by Holocaust Museum Houston. The award recognizes the honoree’s commitment to Holocaust education and her work with Holocaust Museum Houston. “We are honored to recognize Claudia Vallejo, a distinguished educator based in New Orleans,” said Ezequiel Castellanos, Museum Educator. “Claudia’s commitment to education extends beyond the classroom. She has worked with the Holocaust Museum Houston for several years, collaborating to provide her students with new educational experiences.”

Crissy Giacona

National Conference on Science Education Speaker

At the National Conference on Science Education in New Orleans, Dominican Science teacher Mrs. Crissy Giacona presented, Exploring The Fantastic Elastic Car: Build, Race, and Uncover Motion Marvels. The conference draws members of the National Science Teachers Association from across the country.

NOLA Catholic Schools Teacher Spotlight Newsletter · April 30, 2025

Mr. Matt Foss has dedicated his career to the students at St. Mary’s Dominican High School, fostering their understanding of complex physics, mathematics, and computer science topics.

Throughout his twenty-five years at Dominican, he has worked tirelessly to make learning relevant and meaningful for his students. His physics classes are engaged in collaborative, hands-on learning as they solve problems in small groups. In keeping with Dominican’s STREAM™ Initiative, Mr. Foss has implemented seminar style discussions with his classes in the school’s Disputatio Room to discuss the interconnectedness of faith and science. Similarly, he has served as a facilitator, lab manager, and presenter at Foundations programs offered by McGrath Institute for Church Life through the University of Notre Dame.

PERSONNEL SERVICE AWARDS 2024-2025

5 years

Adam Naquin

Julie Pitisci

Andrea Rye

Dr. Maureen Wright, O.P.

10 years

Katey Alexander

Monica Haag

Madelyn Maldonado

June Rabalais

15 years

Angelle Caffery

20 Years

Charlene Ford

Anne Kerth

JoAnn Schexnayder

Denise Vo

25 years

Erin Baker

Matthew Foss

30 years

Jamie Lassere

Marcia Peyton

Ashley Reso

St. Mary’s Dominican High School faculty and staff honored for their service are, (from left), Jamie Lassere, Matthew Foss, Ashley Reso, Marcia Peyton, JoAnn Schexnayder, Adam Naquin, Dr. Maureen Wright O.P., June Rabalais, Charlene Ford, Denise Vo, Anne Kerth, Katey Alexander, Madelyn Maldonado, and Monica Haag. Not pictured: Angelle Caffery and Julie Pitisci.

Kathleen Fasold

VERITAS AWARD RECIPIENT

Ms. Kathleen Fasold, St. Mary’s Dominican High School Librarian/ Department Chair and English teacher, received the Veritas Award at the ceremony recognizing faculty and staff for their service years.

The Veritas Award is the most prestigious award presented to a student or personnel member. Selected by the leadership and administration, the award recipient demonstrates exemplary understanding of the Dominican Charism. Following the example of St. Dominic de Guzman, founder of the Dominican Order, the Veritas Award recipient faithfully strives to seek Truth through prayer, study, community, and service. The honoree preaches the Truth of the Gospel through the example of her life and calls forth the best in others.

Campus Enhancements at St. Mary’s Dominican High School: A Look at the Progress

St. Mary’s Dominican High School began laying the groundwork for a series of exciting campus-wide upgrades. These upgrades reflect our ongoing commitment to creating a learning environment that supports the needs of our students, faculty, and the entire Dominican community— today and into the future.

“As with all of our projects, we turn to experts in the field for guidance, and school representatives Catherine Thomson, CFO, and Giovanny Mejia, Facilities Director/Manager, remained actively involved with the

plans from beginning to end,” said President Dr. Cynthia A. Thomas, OPA. “The project work was planned so that we could minimize disruptions to classes, activities, and camps during the span of the work. That collaboration is a vital part of our stewardship.”

One of the completed projects was the expansion of campus parking, which included two new lots, adding 70 additional parking spaces. The new parking lots will offer the same level of safety and convenience as the current lot. They will be gated, well-lit, and continuously monitored by cameras and our dedicated on-campus security officers, ensuring a secure environment for everyone. These lots also feature electric vehicle charging stations.

Once the new parking area was ready, it was blessed by Very Reverend Patrick Carr, Pastor of St. Rita Catholic Church New Orleans and a frequent celebrant of Dominican Masses. Members of our leadership team, staff, contractors, and construction crews joined Fr. Carr for this special occasion.

That collaboration is a vital part of our stewarship.

Looking ahead to the end of Summer 2025, a major milestone in campus improvement will be achieved with the completion of a state-of-the-art heating/cooling system and electrical upgrades.

These upgrades not only enhance energy efficiency and reduce operational costs but also contributes to improved occupant comfort and environmental sustainability representing a significant step forward in creating a smarter, more efficient, and healthier campus environment for students, faculty, and staff.

A Toast of Praise to our partners at Ryan Gootee General Contractors, RMS, ASE Services LLC, and CIS for an incredible display of teamwork and dedication completing these projects.

St. Mary’s Dominican High School Veritas Award honoree Ms. Kathleen Fasold (center) with President Dr. Cynthia A. Thomas, O.P.A. and Principal/Vice President Carolyn Favre, O.P.A.

ATHLETICS

Division I State Runner Up Athletics

Volleyball Team

Overall record of 34-9

Coached by Mrs. Jessica Chatellier

A Toast of Praise to the Dominican Volleyball teams and the Dominican community for raising $20,605.56 from last fall’s Pink Games’ ticket and t-shirt sales and various fundraisers.

Dominican’s donation represents 60% of the $34,000 total raised from the four participating schools of Dominican, Cabrini, Mount Carmel, and St. Scholastica. The annual Pink Games proceeds support breast cancer patients through the Tulane Cancer Center Patient Relief Fund.

State 5th Place

Cross Country Team

DISTRICT RUNNER UP REGIONAL CHAMPIONS

Coached by Mr. Paul Garvey

Cross Country Team members who were the LHSAA Division I Region 3 Champions (from left): Caroline Bailey, Annabelle Hamada, Cara Thomas, Grace Schneider, Enna Hawes, Sydney Chalmers, and Giselle Strassel.

LHSAA Division I State Runner Up Volleyball Team (Front row, from left): Sadie Cambre, Aurore Tortorich, Lauren Pipitone, Maia Briuglio, Bailey Couret, Ava Ranson, Athletic Trainer Peyton Uzee. (Back row): Assistant Coach Ashlee Juhas, Head Coach Jessica Chatellier, Assistant Coach Heather Nunez, Rani Smith, Aubrie Dalton, Mallie Mahoney, Ava Lusco, Camille Cooling, Zoie Mitchell, Mihley Clayton, Rachel Zamjahn, Kaitlyn Byrd, Finley Nunez, Keira Mahoney, Olivia Ranson, Molly Baker, Assistant Coach Olivia Peyton, and Assistant Coach Bob Martory.

Division I State Champions

Swim Team

At

(Photos, right) Dominican's Swim Team in Sulphur, LA accepting their State Champion trophy at the LHSAA Championship Swim Meet. Dominican’s State Champion Swim Team received accolades from the New Orleans City Council honoring each of Dominican’s Division I champion swimmers with a Proclamation. After returning from the state meet victorious, the Dominican Community celebrated the State Champion Swim Team during a lunchtime parade!

DISTRICT CHAMPIONS

METRO CHAMPIONS

• Annalise Gagliano - District Champion, 50 and 100 yard freestyle

• Kayleigh Jollands - District Champion, 200 yard freestyle

• Haley Valdine - District Champion, 100 yard breast stroke; Metro and State Champion, 200 yard IM; State Runner-Up, 100 yard butterfly

• Virginia Robinson - District Champion, 100 yard backstroke

• Terese Vocke - District Champion, Metro, and State Champion, 500 yard freestyle.

• Kendall Jollands - District Champion, 200 yard IM; District, Metro Champion and State Champion, 100 yard butterfly; State Champion, 100 yard breast stroke.

• 200 yard medley relays - District, Metro, and State Champions

• 200 yard freestyle relays - District Champions and State Runner-Up

• 400 yard freestyle relays - District and State Champions

Coached by Mr. Bret Hanemann

(Photo, above)

a sports pep rally, the Dominican swim team was honored as the Division I STATE CHAMPIONS and received their championship rings! (From left): Grace Bordelon, Amelia Hernandez, Caroline Horsman, Marta Giarrusso, Kendall Jollands, Embry Palmisano, Terese Vocke, Blair Foss, Annalise Gagliano, Julia Henry, Lila Merchant, Mary Pilie', Kayleigh Jollands, Sydney Ranson, Virginia Robinson, and Haley Valdine.

Soccer Team

DISTRICT RUNNER UP

DIVISION I BI-DISTRICT ROUND

OVERALL RECORD of 13-13-2

Coached by Mr. Al Silvas

The Varsity Soccer Team (front row, from left): Theresa Carter, Leonora Ladner, Giselle Strassel, Mallory Cascio, Ella Jones, MaryKatherine Werling, Gia Thompson, Theresa Newburger, Zoe Miller, Ashley Montoya, Kiersten Smith, Madison Krail. (Back row): Sarah Taylor, Blaire Smith, Victoria Thomas, Evelyn Aucoin, Mira Bavido, Alenna Nitcher, Evelyn Ieyoub, Stella Zippert, Tina Gray, Corinne Lannan, Ella Schneida, Abigail Nuccio, Mattie Cantrelle, Kristian Champagne, and Valentina Smith.

Basketball Team

PLACED 4TH IN DISTRICT

DIVISION I REGIONAL ROUND

OVERALL RECORD 23-6

Coached by Mr. Ryan Reuter

The Varsity Basketball Team (from left): Leah Patterson, Addison Shannon, Molly Baker, Gabrielle Davis, Laken Margavio (manager), Rachel Zamjahn, Zoie Mitchell, Vida Alvarado, Sophie Naquin, Harper Griffin, Ellen Ellis, Grace Blamphin, Raleigh Kennedy, Maiya Emilien, and Harper Wilson.

Pipitone - 2,107 digs

Mitchell - 1,058 rebounds

State 6th Place

Golf Team

DISTRICT CHAMPIONS METRO RUNNER UP REGIONAL - 3rd PLACE

Coached by Mr. Rick Ciolino

DISTRICT CHAMPIONS - Golf team members and coaches at the district tournament (from left): Sadie Cambre, Assistant Coach Jerry Brumfield, Marian Jouandot, Lily Hutchinson, Head Coach Rick Ciolino, Layla Dykes, and Jena King.

Gymnastics Team

Gymnastics team members competed in the LHSAA State Gymnastics meet.

Meredith Huck - 5th in the bars, LHSAA State Meet

Coached by Mr. Ryan Reuter

Gymnastics Team members (from left): Julia Williams, Kailey Trombley, Cecilia Villere, Mary-Katherine Werling, and Meredith Huck.

Softball Team

OVERALL RECORD 13 – 16

PLACED 4TH IN DISTRICT DIVISION I QUARTERFINAL ROUND

Coached by Mrs. Dawn Benoit

Dominican Softball team members (Front row, from left): Phoebe Cosse, Kali Moseley, Jovie Leingang, Delaney Darr, Evelyn Booth, Ava Lusco, Raegan Porche. (Back row): Amya Ussin, Addison Shannon, Bella Durr, Raleigh Kennedy, Catherine Andrade, Miya Burford, Autumn Green, Kasey Bartholomew, Aubrey Daigrepont, and Siegen Palmisano.

State 3rd Place

Tennis Team

REGIONAL RUNNER UP

DISTRICT RUNNER UP

Doubles team - Enna Hawes and Mackenzie Hertz, 2nd in Regional

Coached by Mrs. Stephanie Bollman

Track & Field Team

DISTRICT RUNNER UP

PLACED 3RD IN REGIONAL

Stella Zippert - State Runner Up, High Jump

Autumn Johnson - District and Regional Champion, Discus

Madison Bazille, Olivia Bordes, Madigan Lee, and Stella Zippert - 4 x 100 relay team, District Champions

Madigan Lee, Olivia Bordes, Hazel Roots, and Stella Zippert - 4 x 200 relay team, District Champions

Coached by Mrs. Ashlee Juhas

Flag Football Team

OVERALL RECORD OF 5 - 2

First year that Dominican has offered this sport

Advanced to the semifinals of the Saints Girls Flag Football League

Coached by Mr. Chad Larose

(Photo, above) Track and field members who qualified for the LHSAA State Meet - Autumn Johnson, Stella Zippert, Olivia Bordes, Harper Griffin, Madigan Lee, Hazel Roots, Enna Hawes, Grace Schneider, Carey Quigley, and Annabelle Hamada.

(Photo, right) LHSAA Division I State Runner Up High Jump - Stella Zippert.

REGIONAL RUNNER UP - Tennis team members and coaches (front row, from left): Enna Hawes, Elle Thomas, Bailey Couret, Sofia Chanes, Mackenzie Hertz. (Back row): Assistant Coach Peggy Miner, Claire Thomas, Amelia Mayfield, Elizabeth Chalmers, Caroline Thomas, Lourdes Maristany, and Head Coach Stephanie Bollman.

Dominican's first flag football team (front row, from left): Andrea Lagos, Lily Roussell, Mackenzie Hertz, Mary Pilie', Katie Reese, Grace Blamphin, Theresa Carter. (Back row): Assistant Coach Gavin Baker, Jalis D'Avanzo, Molly Baker, Evelyn Ieyoub, Maiya Emilien, Ali Duhe, Fatima Alsherees, Vida Alvarado, Head Coach Chad Larose, and Tina Gray.

LOU REILLY AWARD Athletics

TAward Recipients

he Lou Reilly Award is presented in memory of a wonderful Dominican graduate. For many years she served the community as an educator with a special love for athletics and student athletes. She saw athletic competition and sportsmanship as an important part of the Dominican High School spirit. The award recognizes the athlete who continually tries to improve her skills and listens to her coaches and teammates. This athlete encourages her teammates and gives her full effort at each moment. The student athletes themselves have a nominating vote in the selection of award recipients. The final decision is left to the discretion of the coaches.

JV CROSS COUNTRY: Kate Gaudet, VARSITY CROSS COUNTRY: Annabelle Hamada, 8TH VOLLEYBALL: Caroline Abercrombie, JV VOLLEYBALL: Hayden Johnson,

End of the Year Award Recipients

DOMINICANITE AWARD - Vida Alvarado

This award is presented to the senior who has participated in the most athletic teams throughout her Dominican career.

SCHOLASTIC AWARD - Rachel Zamjahn

Presented to the senior who has participated in at least two varsity sports each year and has the highest cumulative GPA

ST. SEBASTIAN AWARD - Ava Ranson

This award is presented to the outstanding senior in athletics, leadership, and academic excellence.

LOLITA FERNANDEZ DE LA REGUERA PITTMAN AWARDLauren Pipitone

Mrs. Lee Fernandez de la Reguera Pittman ’51 has demonstrated extraordinary support of Dominican’s Athletic Program. This award is presented to the overall varsity athlete who exhibits great athletic ability, strong character, and a positive attitude. She is a leader by example through her passion, encouragement, and true love of the game. This award is voted on by the entire coaching staff of Dominican High School.

VARSITY VOLLEYBALL: Mihley Clayton

JV SOFTBALL: Raleigh Kennedy, VARSITY SOFTBALL: Raegan Porche, GOLF: Sadie Cambre, FLAG FOOTBALL: Mackenzie Hertz, TENNIS: Elle Thomas, JV TRACK & FIELD: Hazel Roots, VARSITY TRACK & FIELD: Olivia Bordes

SWIM: Sydney Ranson, JV BASKETBALL: Grace Blamphin, VARSITY BASKETBALL: Sophie Naquin, JV SOCCER: Cameron Hellmers, VARSITY SOCCER: Giabella Thompson

Louisiana High School Athletic Association college signings

LHSAA ALL ACADEMIC TEAM

Presented for outstanding academic achievement by maintaining a cumulative Grade Point Average of 3.50 or higher during their academic career while participating in varsity high school athletics.

Vida Alvarado (CC/Basketball/Track)

Caroline Bailey (CC/Track)

Yara Benedetto (Track)

Maia Bruglio (Volleyball)

Mihley Clayton (Volleyball/Track)

Carly Cambre (Track)

A’Jah Canselo (Track)

Sofia Chanes (Tennis)

Bailey Couret (Volleyball/Tennis)

Lauren Donofrio (CC)

Annabelle Hamada (CC/Track)

Kayleigh Jollands (Swimming)

Josephine Melerine (Golf)

Sophie Naquin (Basketball)

Finley Nunez (Volleyball)

Raegan Porche (Softball)

Olivia Ranson (Volleyball)

Sydney Ranson (Swimming)

Virginia Robinson (Swimming)

Kiersten Smith (Soccer)

Elle Thomas (Tennis)

Mary Katherine Werling (Soccer/Gymnastics)

Rachel Zamjahn (Volleyball/Basketball)

LHSAA

4.0 SCHOLAR TEAM

A student-athlete’s six-semester GPA must have an un-weighted 4.00. The award is presented for exemplary academic achievement by maintaining the highest Grade Point Average among all athletes during their academic career while participating in varsity high school athletics.

Harper Griffin (Basketball/Track)

Ella Jones (Soccer)

Lauren Pipitone (Volleyball)

Ava Ranson (Volleyball)

Kailey Trombley (Gymnastics)

Haley Valdine (Swimming)

& Field

Kayleigh Jollands FLORIDA TECH Swimming

Rachel Zamjahn MILLSAPS COLLEGE Volleyball

Caroline Bailey RHODES COLLEGE CC/Track

Olivia Bordes SOUTH ALABAMA UNIVERSITY Track & Field

Zoie Mitchell WILLIAM CAREY UNIVERSITY Volleyball Madison Minor

Second Harvest Canned Food Drive Service

In the spirit of community and service, Dominican’s one-week canned food drive for Second Harvest Food Bank totaled 44,061 food items donated. The 26th annual drive was led by Dominican’s Campus Ministry Club. The Sophomores brought in the most donations of 16,561; followed by Seniors – 10,526; 8th Grade – 8,119; Juniors – 5,501; Freshmen – 2,534; and Alumnae – 820 cans. The drive is aligned with the school’s annual Justice Awareness Mass. In her reflection at the Mass, senior Kaitlin Vlosich shared how Dominican’s donations and service give people strength and hope. Noting how the food bank receives most of their donations around Thanksgiving.

”Our food drive helps meet a critical need in the spring and summer. Remember that these food items are going to people in our community, just like you and me. People truly rely on Second Harvest to feed themselves and their families. In the words of Matthew 25:40, ‘Whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me.’ This is exactly what our service projects strive to do and what you have the opportunity to participate in at Dominican, and I encourage you not to take this for granted. When you have the opportunity to help people in need, take it and make the most of it!

Thanksgiving Baskets Community

Adopt-A-Family

Dominican wrapped up the Christmas spirit and delivered it to 173 individuals as part of Dominican’s annual Adopta-Family program. They adopted the 109 residents at the Audubon Retirement Village, 38 from Metro Center for Community Advocacy, 14 from Catholic Charities, and 12 from the community and Dominican’s neighbors. Each religion class was assigned a number of individuals to adopt based on the number of students in their class and grade level. Gifts were provided by students in their religion classes and through donations from school personnel. Campus Ministry Club officers organized the gifts.

“The Adopt-a-Family program at DHS is one of my favorite service projects that gives back to our community in a significant way. This year, with the addition of adopting the residents at the Audubon Retirement Village, some staff members and a handful of students had the opportunity to physically deliver gifts to residents and watch their faces light up with excitement as they unwrapped new blankets, socks, games, and more. This service opportunity truly allowed us to experience the joy that we await at Christmas!”

-Ms. Rebecca Wallace, Campus Minister

St. Mary’s Dominican High School’s annual Thanksgiving Basket Drive collected food that filled 102 baskets with all the fixings for hearty and delicious meals for Dominican’s neighbors who reside within the parish of St. Rita Catholic Church. Students, through homerooms, clubs, and organizations, and personnel collected items. Dominican alumnae donated 30 of the baskets, and St. Rita Church donated 108 turkeys. Thanksgiving cards were made by Dominican’s 8th grade class as the service project during their class retreat. Campus Ministry Club officers and members assisted with the distribution of the baskets, and Dominican Dads Club members transferred the baskets from Dominican to St. Rita. Extra items donated to St. Rita’s Food Pantry included canned green beans and corn, cranberry sauce, bags of rice, sugar, stuffing, and instant potatoes.

Kindness Week

As a part of Treat People with Kindness Week, Dominican’s student council hosted a King Cake Tasting Party during lunch! Wrapping up the week in style, students wore their favorite red and pink to celebrate Galentine's Day—thanks to the Parents Co-Op for the cupcakes students decorated at lunch!

Classroom andExperienceBeyond!

New Dominican students embarked on a walking tour designed to connect them with the history of St. Mary’s Dominican High School. “Before taking the tour, our students learn about the Order of Preachers, its founder St. Dominic, Mary and the Rosary,” shared Ms. Cynthia Donnelly, O.P., MATS., Religion teacher, who always includes on her tour Aquinas Hall that has photos of the first convent on Dryades Street, the second location uptown on St. Charles Avenue and Broadway, and today’s campus.

Match Day comes every March when medical students across the country learn their residency placements. For the third year, students in Mrs. Janine Koenig’s Bio II classes and Dr. Brian Credo’s Premed classes at Archbishop Rummel High School participated in their Match Day. “We recreate a similar event here at Dominican,” said Mrs. Koenig. “My students have an assignment to investigate residency programs which requires them to pick a specialty and hospital program. Along with Dr. Credo’s class, we open envelopes all at the same time in a ceremony here in the Tech Center.”

Memorial Day was a memorable one for Dominican choir students and alumnae who performed in New York at Carnegie Hall on the Ronald O. Perelman Stage, under the direction of two nationally acclaimed composers and conductors, alongside the New England Symphonic Ensemble. They joined choirs from Connecticut, Kansas, and Pennsylvania for an inspiring performance that filled the historic hall with harmony and heart.

Taking Flight

“Using the flight simulator in the classroom enhances our students’ understanding of how engineering, science, physics, and math are necessary in order for a plane to fly,” said Mrs. Giacona.

Students in Mrs. Crissy Giacona’s 8th grade physical science honors classes had flying lessons with guest speaker Lt. Col. Floyd Miles of the Civil Air Patrol (CAP). For more than 80 years, CAP has been a champion of aerospace education across the nation. It is the official volunteer auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force and assists with search and rescue.

Lt. Col. Miles’ presentation covered the history and mechanics of flying and incorporated Dominican’s recently acquired flight simulator. Joining the class were (left) sophomore Abigail Lips, C/MSgt (Cadet Master Sergeant) with the Civil Air Patrol, and senior Lauren Donofrio, who will soon have her pilot’s license.

LSU Coastal Roots

Dominican teacher Mrs. Joann Haydel covers a unit on Louisiana Wetlands with her Earth Science classes. Spring 2025, her classes planted bald cypress seeds that will germinate in the plant nursery on campus. “We do a unit on Louisiana Wetlands and the LSU Coastal Roots program is a great way to engage students to actively be stewards of their environment,” she said. “This is our third year to participate in the program. A grant from the Joe W. and Dorothy Dorsett Brown Foundation Service Learning Program funds our participation.”

Dominican’s planting site partner is the Bonnet Carre’ Spillway where in January 2025 Mrs. Haydel’s students took a restoration planting trip and planted 400 Cypress and Water Hickory tree saplings.

“They learned about the role of the spillway and the importance of planting trees there to increase habitat. Through the summer we will watch these seeds grow and hope to have plenty of seedlings for next year’s Earth Science classes to plant in the Bonnet Carre’ Spillway in the Fall. Then the cycle will start over, planting new seeds in the spring.”

-Mrs. Joann Haydel

In Dominican’s Research Lab, 8th graders in Mrs. Joann Haydel’s Environmental Science class completed 'Sewer Science,' a hands-on lab that teaches students about municipal wastewater treatment. The lab was in partnership with the Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans that provided the class with all of the equipment needed for the students to simulate their own wastewater and follow the steps to clean that wastewater.

Mr. Matt Foss’ AP Physics class took their learning outside for a hands-on experiment. A group of physics students used video analysis to measure acceleration due to gravity -- one student launched a ball from a known height, another timed its hang time with a stopwatch, and a third recorded the motion on video. Back in the classroom, they used the footage to calculate the acceleration due to gravity.

Mr. Ryan Reuter’s Psychology Honors class conducted a “Blind Sensory Walk” as part of their unit on Sensation & Perception. After an initial sensory walk, where students observed their surroundings using all senses, this lab took away their sight by blindfolding them. The goal was to explore how losing one sense heightens awareness of others and to encourage trust in their leaders. During the walk, students also discussed “signal detection theory,” focusing on their ability to block out distractions and concentrate on their partner’s instructions.

Club Awards & Recognitions Debs Robotics

Members of Dominican’s award-winning robotics team, Dominican Ultraviolet, front row (from left): Eliza Short, Madeleine Jennings, Emily Praner. Middle row: Robotics coach Ms. Gillian Decossas, Marianne Kononchek, Ardenne Kijko, Angeli Bautista, robotics coach Mrs. Crissy Giacona. Back row: Madelyn Nguyen, Sophia Salvaggio, Marisa Acevedo, Violet Matherne, Kaylee Gonzalez, and robotics coach Mr. Matt Foss. Not pictured: Robotics coach Mr. Kenny Lannes.

The Dominican Ultraviolet Robotics Team won 2nd place in the Think Award at the FTC Qualifier hosted by St. Mary’s Dominican High School. The Think Award recognizes their outstanding journey through the engineering design process during the build season! This achievement also qualified them for the Regional Championship Competition.

At the FIRST Tech Challenge Louisiana Regional Championship, the team won 1st in the Innovate Award. This award celebrates a team that thinks imaginatively and has the ingenuity, creativity, and inventiveness to make their designs come to life.

Debs JV

DEBS JV - STATE RUNNER UP

The Dominican Debs JV team competed in the American AllStar Louisiana State Dance/Drill Team Competition for the 2nd time and placed 2nd overall in JV Sweepstakes.

2nd Place - JV Division Jazz

2nd Place - JV Division Pom

2nd Place - JV Division Game Day

DEBS JV NATIONALLY

RANKED

3RD IN GAME DAY

For the first time ever, the Debs JV Dance Team took the stage at Nationals and two of their three dances made finals.

3rd Place - Game Day

4th Place - Jazz

Coached by Virginia Babin and Kailyn Smith.

Adair

and Molly

DEBS NAMED STATE CHAMPIONS

For the first time, the Dominican Debs won the Sweepstakes Award at the 2025 American All-Star Louisiana State Dance/Drill Team Competition, outscoring over 30 high school teams.

AWARDS:

Sweepstakes Award for all High School teams

State Champions - Open

State Champions - Game Day

2nd Place - Jazz

3rd Place - Pom

Division II Champions - Jazz

Division II Champions - Pom

Division II Champions - Open

Division II Champions - Game Day

Division II Champions - Technique Awards - Jazz and Open

Division II Champions - Choreography Awards - Jazz and Open

DTU BATON ROUGE REGIONAL - GAME DAY CHAMPS

Regional Champions - Game Day

Overall Most Entertaining Routine Award - Game Day

2nd Place - Varsity Jazz

DOMINICAN DEBS NATIONALLY RANKED 3RD IN GAME DAY

More Deb history was made! The Dominican Debs brought home bronze at the 2025 UDA National Dance Team Championship in Orlando, FL!

Coached by Fran Moran and Sina Baldwin.

3rd in the Nation - The Dominican Debs at the Universal Dance Association’s National Dance Team competition are, front row (from left): Remi Layne Hernandez, Madison Minor, Madison Pearce, Aubrie Duplantis, Ava Windmeyer, Alivia Goertz. Middle row: Cecilia LaGraize, Lena Tabony, Claire Kirsch, Gracyn Sapp, Delaney Hedrick, Kaelin Fisse. Back row: Lucie Burke, Brenna Tamborella, Maggie Domingue, Ava Stack, Rosemary Cantrelle,

Hoke,

Evans.

3rd in the Nation - Debs JV Team (front row, from left): Stella Caruso, Eliza Palmisano, Emma Vocke. Middle row: Audrey Goertz, Lucy Fornaris, Grace Angel. Back row: Alexis Francis, Nahla Davis, and Ava Truxillo.

Academic Games

NEW ORLEANS ACADEMIC GAMES LEAGUE (NOAGL)

Therese Hymel – Presidents, tied for 3rd; On-Sets, tied for 3rd, Sweepstakes, 3rd place

Avery Johnston – Propaganda, 2nd place; Sweepstakes, 5th place Camille Hymel – Presidents, tied for 3rd

NATIONAL ACADEMIC GAMES TOURNAMENT

Avery Johnston – Propaganda, 9th Individual; member of NOAGL team placed 1st in Propaganda, 2nd in Presidents, and 4th in Sweepstakes

Club moderators were Mrs. Leslie Cobar and Mrs. Monica Haag.

Color Guard

Dominican Color Guard, ICARUS: For the Love of the Sun, placed in two Louisiana-Mississippi Color Guard and Percussion Circuit (LMCGPC) competitions:

Biloxi High School - 3rd place, Scholastic A National Class Lake Shore High School - 2nd place, Scholastic A National Class

Coached by Mrs. Amy Ferguson.

Band & Choir

LOUISIANA MUSIC EDUCATORS' ASSOCIATION (LMEA) VOCAL LARGE ENSEMBLE ASSESSMENT FESTIVAL

Superior Rating – Stage Performance; Sightreading

Overall Rating – Sweepstakes

LMEA INSTRUMENTAL LARGE ENSEMBLE ASSESSMENT FESTIVAL

Excellent Rating – Stage; Superior Rating – Sightreading

Overall Rating – Excellent

LMEA VOCAL SOLO & SMALL ENSEMBLE ASSESSMENT FESTIVAL - Superior Rating

Solo: Anastasia Redmann, Andrea Lagos, Aurora Bezdek, Elizabeth Redmann, Londyn Greely, Maya Parker, Grace Ohlmeyer, Kavya Paramesh, Leah Gilmore, Sophia Perez.

Duets: Ava Abadie and Riya Shah; Claire Cooper and Paris Aultman

LMEA INSTRUMENTAL SOLO & SMALL ENSEMBLE ASSESSMENT FESTIVAL - Superior Rating

Solo: Addison Crescioni – Flute; June Diket – Clarinet; Leah Gilmore –Clarinet; Kavya Paramesh – Clarinet; Sloane Douget – Alto Saxophone; Anna Hattier – Alto Saxophone; Leah Johnson – Alto Saxophone; Abbey Sweeney – Tenor Saxophone; Helen Wetzel – Trumpet; Emme Womble – Trombone; Isabelle Tsien – Piano; Emily Giardina – Snare Drum

Duet: Abigail Beben and Victoria Wiebelt – Clarinet and Flute

Ensemble: Emily Giardina, Jai’Dyn Jones, Marianne Kononchek, Eilyn Smith, Elise Grazulis, Emily Praner, Athena Nguyen, and Seraphina Edwards – Percussion

LMEA ALL-STATE

Senior High Honor Mixed Choir: Anastasia Redmann, Soprano 2, Academic Award. Senior High Honor Treble Choir: Monica Bertucci, Soprano 2, Academic Award; Sophia Perez, Alto 2. Senior High Honor Guitar Ensemble: Marina Vincent. Middle School Honor Choir: Aurora Bezdek, Soprano 2; Claire Cooper – Soprano 1.

DISTRICT VI HONOR BAND, DISTRICT HONOR CHOIR

DOMINICAN DEBS AND COLOR GUARD PERFORM WITH BROTHER MARTIN BAND

The Brother Martin Crusader Marching Band and St. Mary's Dominican High School Debs and Color Guard participated in the LMEA Marching Band Assessment at Chalmette High School. They each received superior ratings on their field show.

Senior High Honor Band: Isabelle Tsien, String Bass; June Diket, Clarinet; Lillian Lambert, String Bass. Junior High Honor Band: Alcee Aime, Electric Bass; Claire Mansfield, Oboe; Athena Nguyen, Percussion. Senior High Honor Choir: Monica Bertucci, Soprano 1; Andrea Lagos, Soprano 1; Maya Parker, Soprano 2; Sophia Perez, Alto 1. Senior High Honor Jazz Band: Leah Gilmore, Vocalist; Lillian Lambert, Electric Bass; Marina Vincent, Vocalist and Guitar. Junior High Honor Jazz Band: Alcee Aime, Electric Bass.

LOYOLA UNIVERSITY HONOR BAND

Abbey Sweeney, Tenor Saxophone; Helen Wetzel, Trumpet

Sweepstakes (front row, from left): Choir Director Brenda Castillo, Emily Praner, Anastasia Redmann, Monica Bertucci, Ava Abadie. Middle row: Grace Ohlmeyer, Leah Gilmore, Kavya Paramesh, Andrea Lagos, Elizabeth Redmann, Diana Nguyen, Riya Shah, Maya Parker, Sophia Perez. Back row: Claire Cooper, Paris Aultman, Lillian Lawless, Londyn Greely, Marianne Kononchek, Isabelle Camenzuli, Aurora Bezdek, and Anna Hattier.

Academic Games winners (from left): Therese Hymel, Avery Johnston, and Camille Hymel.

Club Activities

Ecology & Stewardship

Ecology & Stewardship Club members, along with moderator Mrs. Joann Haydel, joined forces with Pontchartrain Conservancy at the Bucktown Shoreline Restoration Event to help strengthen coastal defenses using 1000 bags of sustainable sourced sand provided by Glass Half Full. The recycled glass creates vital habitats for local wildlife and enhance a beautiful space for the community to enjoy.

Beta Club

Dominican’s Beta Club members collected and donated diapers and baby wipes to support Catholic Charities’ Access Pregnancy Program.

Honor Society Induction

Clubs Work Together for Community and Service

St. Mary’s Dominican High School students in Beta Club, Ecology and Stewardship Club, and National Honor Society earned service hours by partnering with the non-profit Grounds Krewe to package over 1500 consumable Mardi Gras throws for the Krewe of Iris. Brett Davis, who founded Grounds Krewe in 2018, shared about its mission to promote, plan, and facilitate waste prevention, recycling, and sustainable products at New Orleans special events.

Club Activities

Robotics Pro Life Club

Girl Scouts in Troop 41140 from St. Francis Xavier and Troops 40079 and 40086 from St. Catherine enjoyed their hour-long sessions in Dominican’s Robotics Lab working toward earning their robotics badges. During their visit they met robotics coaches and students on Dominican’s robotics team. The Girl Scouts also enjoyed test driving the Dominican outreach robot and watching the 3D printer in action.

Craft Club

Students in Dominican's Pro Life Club, along with club moderator Theresa Maquar, and Campus Minister Rebecca Wallace joined over 500 pilgrims from New Orleans and thousands from around the world to March for Life in Washington, DC.

NAHS

For the 2024 New Orleans Hispanic Heritage Foundation’s “Chalk Painting our Hispanic Heritage: Student Contest,” the Dominican team selected Guatemala. Their design featured iconic structures of Antigua Guatemala, showcasing the country’s stunning colonial architecture with the vibrant and lively “chicken bus” as the centerpiece. The Dominican team was under the guidance and encouragement of art teacher Ms. Angelle Caffery and Dr. Cynthia A. Thomas, school president.

Spanish Clubs

Craft Club members decorated Dominican's Christmas Tree for this year's Celebration in the Oaks! 'Frosty Kind of Celebration' was the theme for Dominican's tree. The festive ornaments were created by the Craft Club and included recycled materials. While decorating the tree, Fox 8 WVUE-TV stopped by for an interview.

Throughout the school year, students in the Spanish Club and Las Adelitas, the Spanish Honor Society, enjoyed several authentic Spanish dishes from empanadas to tres leches king cake during lunch.

Special School Events

St. Mary’s Dominican High School Celebrates Dominican Veritas Ministries Sponsorship

Dominican Veritas Ministries is a collaborative effort of U.S. Dominican Sisters congregations who want to provide for the future of Dominican Catholic Education...

On February 18, St. Mary’s Dominican High School celebrated its new sponsorship with Dominican Veritas Ministries (DVM) during a Mass and ceremony with the school community, boards of directors, alumnae, parents, and guests. The celebration was held in the Sr. Ambrose Reggio, O.P. Gymnasium.

Following the welcome by Dr. Cynthia A. Thomas, OPA, President of St. Mary’s Dominican High School, Student Preachers Maggy LeBlanc ’25 and Kaitlin Vlosich ’25 gave a reflection. “Today’s celebration will remind us of our connection to the full Dominican community spread throughout the world,” shared Maggy. Kaitlin noted, “For centuries, the Dominican Order has lived in the pursuit of Veritas. Through the Dominican Sisters of Peace and now the DVM, we will continue to strive to preach truth for centuries to come.”

Very Reverend Patrick Carr was the celebrant for the Mass. On the altar were relics of Dominican saints: St. Catherine of Siena, St. Dominic de Guzman, St. Martin de Porres, St. Thomas Aquinas. The chalice used for the Mass was given on the occasion of Mother Mary Magdalen O’Farrell’s Golden Jubilee in 1890. One of the seven Dominican Sisters who journeyed from Cabra, Ireland, to New Orleans in 1860, she was a key figure in the founding of St. Mary’s Dominican High School.

Five Dominican Sisters congregations founded DVM in 2022 to oversee Dominican ministries in the United States. It is a canonical entity recognized by the Vatican. During the Sponsorship Transfer Ceremony, Sr. Patricia Twohill, O.P., Prioress, Dominican Sisters of Peace; Sr. Therese Leckert, O.P.,

Dominican Sisters of Peace and Member of DVM; and Dr. Kristin Melley, Executive Director of DVM, spoke about the significance of the ceremony.

“The Dominican Sisters of Peace are so proud of St. Mary’s Dominican High School. The school’s innovative spirit flourishes because of its firm foundation built on the Dominican Pillars – Prayer, Community, Study and Service! I am confident that St. Mary’s Dominican will remain a beacon of hope and truth in New Orleans for years to come educating strong leaders to serve our Church and society," said Sr. Patricia Twohill, O.P.

Sr. Therese Leckert, O.P., shared, “Dominican Veritas Ministries is a collaborative effort of U.S. Dominican Sisters congregations who want to provide for the future of Dominican Catholic Education beyond the time when an individual congregation would be able to fulfill the role of sponsorship. Dominican Veritas Ministries currently includes not only our four Dominican Sisters of Peace schools, but also nine other schools sponsored by other U.S. Dominican Sisters' congregations. This provides for our Dominican Sisters of Peace schools' leaders a wider network of colleagues with whom they can share resources.”

“In the spirit of the Dominican Sisters who founded our school over 164 years ago, the Dominican Sisters of Peace have once again demonstrated inspirational vision, leadership, and collaboration that assures Dominican Catholic Education for many future generations of students!" said Dr. Cynthia A. Thomas, OPA.

In expression of their deep gratitude to the Dominican Sisters, the students, faculty, and personnel sang, Dona Nobis Pacem – a Latin phrase that translates to grant us peace or give us peace. After the singing of the Alma Mater and Toast of Praise, the band led the Dominican community in a second line through the gymnasium.

St. Mary’s Dominican High School presents Freaky Friday

Dominican’s production of Disney's Freaky Friday debuted on March 28. The cast, crew, and orchestra dedicated their time and talent for many months leading up to the production and their hard work came to fruition on stage in a spectacular performance —full of heart, humor, and a little bit of body-switching magic!

Spring Musical

Special School Events

Ring Day

At the beginning of their senior year, the Class of 2025 received their rings during a Mass and ceremony in the Sr. Ambrose Reggio, OP Gymnasium. After the ceremony, the seniors 'ran the halls' to have their rings turned – a Dominican tradition!

New Student Induction

Welcome Day

Open House

Special School Events

Baccalaureate Mass

Senior Faculty Flag Football

Summer Engineering Seminar

by industry leaders and academia from Xavier University, University of New Orleans, and Dominican.

Gala 2025 Derby Days at Dominican

St. Mary's Dominican High School and Xavier University hosted an Engineering Summer Seminar on Dominican's campus. There were presentations

The Class of 2025 defeated the Faculty for the first time ever in the annual Senior-Faculty Flag Football Game.

Executive Board incoming officers (from left): President - Jovie Leingang; Vice President - Enna Hawes; Secretary - Sarah Reinhardt; and Treasurer - Ellie Green

Summer Camps

DominiCamp · Jumpin' for Joy

From softball and cheerleading, to arts and crafts and conducting experiments, campers at DominiCamp and Jumpin' for Joy channeled their creativity in a variety of activities, including the arts, sports, dance, music, and science.

Walkin' on Walmsley

Incoming students enjoyed Walkin’ on Walmsley, an exciting week of orientation where they met faculty and fellow students, made new friends, and had fun as they discovered their new school. Lunch, locating lockers, reading and math time, a service project, enjoying Italian ice treats, and a Friendship Talk led by the Counseling Department were some of the many activities that packed their week. Trivia, snoballs, and a photo booth were some of the last day events.

Upcoming Recruitment Events

Friday, September 12 | Girls in Grades 6-7

Thursday, October 16

Friday, April 10 | Girls in Grade 4-6

2025-2026 ADMISSIONS TIMELINE

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2025

Application Opens

SATURDAY, JANUARY 10, 2026

High School Placement Test Day

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2026

Notifications of Acceptance/ Acceptance

Celebration

Save the Dates Upcoming Dominican Events

2025

SEPTEMBER 24

New Student Induction

OCTOBER 16

Open House

OCTOBER 28

Volleyball Pink Games

NOVEMBER 20

Grandparents' Day - Seniors

2026

JANUARY 15

Grandparents' Day - Sophomores

FEBRUARY 26

Grandparents' Day - Juniors

MARCH 14

Gala

MARCH 17

Grandparents' Day - Freshmen

MARCH 20 & 21

MARCH 27 & 28

Spring Musical

APRIL 14

Grandparents' Day - 8th Grade

Please

Save the Dates

Join us to Pray the Rosary

February 2021, the Alumnae Association created the first monthly Rosary via Zoom. The first Tuesday of every month, alumnae numbering 11 to 50 have logged into Zoom to say the Rosary with fellow classmates from around the country. To date, 1000 plus alumnae have participated. Moving forward, Karla Luke Leary ’77 will lead this ministry along with Kathleen Swiler LaGrange ’71.

ROSARIES 2025-2026:

SEPTEMBER 2, OCTOBER 7

NOVEMBER 4, DECEMBER 2, JANUARY 6, FEBRUARY 3, MARCH 3, APRIL 7, MAY 5, JUNE 2, JULY 7, AUGUST 4

7:00 PM – 7:30 PM

DOMINICAN SOCCER ALUMNAE

SATURDAY, JANUARY 10, 2026, 11 AM Pan AM Stadium

The Dominican student soccer game will honor those alumnae from the 2011 State Championship as they celebrate their 15 year reunion.

SPRING OF 2027

Date is TBD

The Dominican student soccer game will honor those alumnae from the 2022 State Championship as they celebrate their 5 year reunion and the 2007 State Championship as they celebrate their 20 year reunion.

SPRING OF 2028

Date is TBD

The Dominican student soccer game will honor those alumnae from 2003 as they celebrate their 25 Year Reunion.

ALL ARE INVITED!

Details will be emailed out and on social media. For more info, you can email Al Silvas at asilvas@stmdhs.org.

Dominican's 63rd Alumnae Homecoming

St. Mary’s Dominican High School alumnae returned to their alma mater for the 63rd Homecoming Mass and Luncheon on April 12th to celebrate class anniversaries and recognize five honorees for instilling Christian moral values while encouraging the practice of ethical behavior as demonstrated through their dedication to family, public service, and career. Honorees were the Honorable Kelly McNeil Legier ’85, Alumna of the Year; Dr. Paula Woods Adams ’71 and Elizabeth Lalla Stafford ’75, St. Catherine of Siena Preaching Award; Margaret “Meg” Kramer Daigle ’70, St. Mary Angela Mulhern, O.P. Service Award; and Alexa Schexnaildre ’04, Outstanding Young Alumna.

50 YEAR REUNION The Class of 1975 gifted over $85,000 to the Sr. Mary Anne McSweeney, O.P. Faculty Endowment Fund.

Alumna of the Year Award

Honorable Kelly McNeil Legier

Dominican has given me the tools to carry out God’s Will by relying upon faith and exhibiting perseverance, honesty, and integrity.

HON. KELLY MCNEIL LEGIER, a 1985 graduate of St. Mary’s Dominican High School, currently serves as an administrative law judge for the Office of Medicare Hearings and Appeals within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Judge Legier earned her Juris Doctorate, cum laude, in 1993 and earned her Bachelor of Arts, magna cum laude, in 1989 in communications from Loyola University New Orleans. She previously served as general counsel for the Judiciary Commission of Louisiana; as a state administrative law judge with the Louisiana Division of Administrative Law; and as the first Director of Member Outreach for the Louisiana State Bar Association, where she created ground-breaking programs that garnered national awards. Before the LSBA, she clerked for Hon. Carl Stewart (U.S Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals) and Hon. Ivan Lemelle (U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Louisiana). She also spent years in private practice handling ERISA, employment, and commercial litigation with firms: Stone, Pigman, Walther, Wittmann & Hutchinson, LLC; Shook Hardy & Bacon, LLP; and Proskauer Rose LLP.

Judge Legier currently serves as chair of the Dominican High School Board of Directors, on which she previously served from 1997-2002. She also is an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and the Board of Directors of the N.O. Chapter, Federal Bar Association. For over 30 years, she has been active in the Louisiana State Bar Association, serving on its Board of Governors from 2006-08 as well as various committees. She has volunteered for law-related programs, including the Pro Bono Project, Teen Court, and Homeless Experience Legal Protection program. The Louisiana Supreme Court appointed her several times to serve as judge pro tempore in First City Court of New Orleans and appointed her to serve as a grader and later the Exam Writer for the Constitutional Law bar exam. She has held several leadership roles for legal and community organizations where she implemented programs to help and educate.

WHAT IMPACT DID YOUR DOMINICAN EDUCATION HAVE ON YOU?

Volunteering and service is very important to Judge Legier. She has been recognized for her service, including the Greater N.O. Louis A. Martinet Legal Society Legacy Award (2012); Greater Baton Rouge Louis A. Martinet Legal Society Vanguard Award (2012); Loyola University College of Law Black Law Student Association’s. Alumni (2010), Public Service & Leadership (2009), and Thurgood Marshall (1994) awards; LSBA President’s Award (2004); Greater N.O. Louis A. Martinet Legal Society President’s Award (2004); CityBusiness “Person to Know” (2004); Loyola Black Student Union’s Dean Louis Westerfield Law Alumnus Award (1999); and Louisiana League of Good Government Service Award (1998); and the St. Louise De Marillac Service Award for St. Theresa of the Little Flower of Jesus Catholic Church (1989).

Judge Legier attributes her achievements, in large part, to the spiritual and academic formation received at Dominican. She shared, “Dominican has given me the tools to carry out God’s Will by relying upon faith and exhibiting perseverance, honesty, and integrity.” While at Dominican, she immediately got involved, being elected freshman representative for the student council. She remained active through the following: the track team, speech and debate, Mu Alpha Theta, and National Honor Society. Her favorite activity was the Debs Dance Team, for which she was appointed captain for her senior year. She graduated, with honors, ranked sixth in her class.

Judge Legier has continued her active involvement with Dominican, serving in the 1990s on the Dominican Alumnae Board and as a commencement speaker (1997), speaker for the seniors' last day (2003), Alumnae Rally Day spirit stick (2013) and cheerleader (2023) for the 80s Decade, and speaker for several career days. She also has been a judge for the Deb Tryouts for many years.

Judge Legier also attributes her success to a very supportive husband and family. She has been married for 33½ years to Ernest P. Legier, Jr., with whom she has three sons: Ernest, III “Trey” (30), Jonathan (28), and Nicholas (26). She also has received great support from her mother, Alvena McNeil (now deceased), and her sisters: Avis Brock, Alorea Gilyot (DHS Class of 1981), and Kimberly McNeil (DHS Class of 1988).

Years after graduation, Judge Legier’s mother shared the answer Judge Legier had given during her Dominican admission interview to the following question: What will you bring to Dominican?” Judge Legier’s answer, without hesitation, was “spirit!” She has brought spirit and more to Dominican and everyone else she has touched.

St. Catherine of Siena Preaching Awards

Dr. Paula Woods Adams '71

Born and raised in New Orleans, Dr. Paula Woods Adams lives out the teachings of the Catholic Church. Her lifelong commitment to the principles of Veritas is reflected in her professional achievements and acts of kindness. She holds a Doctor of Education Administration and Supervision (University of Houston), Master of Science in Education Administration (Texas A&M), and Bachelor of Arts in Education (University of New Orleans).

During 32 plus years of dedicated service, Paula influenced countless individuals with her wisdom, compassion, and leadership, particularly in the fields of education and community service. She taught students from Early Childhood through secondary levels and served as both campus level principal and central office administrator in various public school settings. She retired as a tenured Associate Professor of Education at Sam Houston State University where she prepared preservice teachers and taught graduate courses for educational diagnostics and school psychologists.

The St. Monica Catholic Church (Galveston-Houston Archdiocese) parishioner enjoys serving in several parish ministries, including RCIA programs and choir. Recently, she was co-director of a women’s ACTS retreat and member of a Kairos team serving incarcerated women and their families. Paula’s latest humanitarian efforts profoundly underscore her exceptional character. She opened her home to a single mother and her two children; complete strangers whom she first met when she picked them up from an Airbnb, rescuing them from imminent eviction. This act of compassion extended well beyond providing shelter. Paula actively sought support from local church parishes, St. Elizabeth Seton and St. Monica, advocating tirelessly to secure a stable and independent living situation for the family. Understanding the mother’s frequent absences from work due to her 10-year-old daughter’s chronic autoimmune disease that can lead to hospitalization, Paula volunteered to substitute teach the mother’s third-grade classes. This not only helped the mother maintain her employment during her child’s health crises but also ensured that the students’ education continued uninterrupted.

Paula cherishes diversity and actively fosters an inclusive environment, as evidenced by her contributions to the education of children with special needs and advocacy for the rights of the less privileged. Her life’s work and recent actions to aid a distressed family highlight her embodiment of the Gospel values through real-world application.

Elizabeth Lalla Stafford '75

Elizabeth Lalla Stafford inspires and nurtures spiritual lives. Classmates call her a living testament to courage, compassion, and faith – reflecting St. Catherine of Siena’s legacy. Throughout her life, Liz has embodied virtues of selfless love and steadfast devotion to God’s will. As a wife, she has nurtured a strong and faith-filled marriage, demonstrating unwavering support and love for her spouse. A mother and grandmother, Liz is a guiding light, instilling in her family the values of faith, kindness, and integrity. Her prayerful life is evident in her dedication to intercessory prayer for her family, Dominican classmates, and the world.

In 2012 Liz started sending weekly heartfelt prayer emails to her classmates and has never missed a week. Every email has a meaningful message that inspires all to think about the power of prayer. Liz also shares links to podcasts that have inspirational messages, online Novena dates, and prayers that have touched her with hope that others will take the time to read and absorb their meaning. Liz’s all-encompassing messages range from local requests to throughout the world. She seeks to uplift people and acknowledges with love those who think differently than her. She shares. Liz fosters unity and spiritual growth among her peers and beyond with uplifting reflections and intentions for those in need or in thanksgiving. In this vibrant prayer community, Dominican Alumnae regularly receive thoughtful prayers, petitions, and words of wisdom.

Liz encourages classmates to be compassionate, courageous, prayerful in all aspects of their lives, to pray for one another and those around the world. She invites everyone to go beyond themselves, deepening their connection to God, strengthening their sense of global community. She inspires others to make prayer central to their lives no matter where they are in their faith journeys. Continually seeking to help others deepen their spiritual lives, she offers practical suggestions on how to pray more intentionally and become better by trusting more fully in God’s plan. Her wisdom reflects the transformative power of allowing God’s will to guide daily life. Liz’s actions reflect the very spirit of St. Catherine, a preacher of the Word, a beacon of hope and compassion to everyone she encounters.

Sr. Mary Angela Mulhern, O.P. Service Award

Margaret “Meg” Kramer Daigle '70

Margaret “Meg” Kramer Daigle joyfully embraces faith and service. At St. Matthew the Apostle Parish Meg is a lector and Altar Ladies Society member, Vacation Bible School volunteer for 13 years, and a CCD and Faith Formation teacher preparing second graders for First Reconciliation and First Eucharist. She is the mother of Regina Marcelle Hofmann ’01, Cherie Alyse Wooldridge ’03, and Carrie Daigle Bach ’97. Granddaughter Laila Marcelle Hofmann is a Dominican junior.

“In the spirit of Veritas, she always had unwavering dedication, staying true to her family, friends, community, and faith,” shared Carrie. “My mother remains close with her Dominican friends, gathering to celebrate life’s milestones. She has genuine compassion and empathy towards others, unique high-spirited energy, and ability to uplift those around her, fostering a spirit of inclusivity and encouragement that resonates deeply for those who surround her.”

In her sophomore year, Meg joined Dominican’s band; senior year she was First French Horn. Later she was a New Orleans Saints’ Mademoiselles dance team member and performed Summer Stock in New York with the National Shakespeare Company. A year as a nanny for a Catholic family in New York influenced her passion for teaching. Returning to New Orleans, she married Reginald C. Daigle and pursued a teaching career. She credits Dominican Sr. Angeline Magro, O.P., Sr. Dominic Savio Estorge, O.P., and Ms. Patricia Blanchard for graduating from Louisiana State University in three and half years with a Bachelor of Arts in Speech│Drama. She also earned teaching certifications from Dominican College, and Master of Education in Administration from the University of New Orleans. She began teaching at St. Matthew (1976-1981), followed by 30 years in the Jefferson Parish School System. Today she teaches Golden Agers line dancing; is a senior Olympics dance troupe Fever member, and a licensed Zumba Dance instructor.

Classmate Mary Austin Mang describes Meg, “Tireless! In addition to substitute teaching, fitness activities, and being a grandmother, Meg volunteers at Dominican for many activities, graciously giving her time to be of service to Dominican. Faith is an important aspect of Meg’s life. Meg lives a life of faith and service to God. She has served Dominican well and continues to shine in the sisterhood of true Dominican values.”

Alexa Schexnaildre '04 Young Alumna Award

The past twenty years, Alexa Schexnaildre has walked a path enduring daily, relentless suffering from a debilitating, multi-faceted, and extremely complicated illness begun during senior year. In 2004, Alexa’s life changed dramatically. After wisdom teeth extraction, a rare blood disorder started wreaking havoc on her body, leading to numerous medical missteps undiagnosed until six and a half years later. Alexa finished Dominican by having books read to her and dictated papers through immense physical suffering.

“The suffering has been tremendous, and the darkness has been extremely dark, but the light of Christ has illuminated her darkness,” wrote her spiritual director, Rev. Andrew Rudmann, St. Philip Neri Church Pastor. “She has NEVER lost faith. She has NEVER turned away from God, though she has struggled with God and wrestled with God, she has faithfully plunged into prayer, theological study, the sacraments, spiritual direction – all the spiritual resources that our Catholic faith offers, to help her to understand and navigate this journey of suffering.” Accepting the Lord’s invitation to share her story, Alexa has spoken to several groups: Dominican, parishes, Confirmation classes, college students via Zoom. Through her blog, For The Greater Purpose, she encourages everyone to find hope and meaning in their suffering. Classmate Claire Gallagher calls Alexa, “A beautiful witness to the power of God. I am in awe of the daily, relentless suffering she endures, but even more so in her ability to persevere in trusting God, her faithfulness to daily Mass, adoration, and regular confession even when it physically hurts.”

Former Dominican Religion teacher Angelle Hall, Campus Ministry Director at St. Thomas More Newman Center, recalls Alexa a stand-out example of faith. “While Alexa was definitely a seeker of Truth and a preacher of the Word prior to this, she really leaned into her faith and the seeking of Truth,” Angelle noted. “While she did not intend on becoming a medical researcher, she utilized all the critical thinking skills that Dominican taught her to research her own situation. She has passed on not only the truths she’s discovered that have been vital to continuing treatment, but also others to medical professionals with credentials to have them published. I may have taught her in 2001-2002, but Alexa is the teacher now, encouraging so many through her talks and her daily offering of suffering.”

Tennis Tournament

Alumnae Happenings

Alumnae Appreciate Personnel

Class of 2024 Coffee and Yearbooks

at Open House

Mother Daughter Tea in Honor of the Class of 2025

Alumnae collected 820 cans of food for the Annual Canned Food Drive.

Cocktails in the Courtyard & Makers Market

Mother Daughter Generations

3rd Generations

Alumnae Happenings

Catholic Schools Week

St. Mary’s Dominican High School alumnae celebrated Catholic Schools Week near and far. Fifteen alumnae volunteers delivered more than 200 handmade rosaries, crafted by two fellow alums, to our Dominican alumnae serving in 44 Catholic high schools and grammar schools across Greater New Orleans, Bay St. Louis, Reserve, Covington, and Slidell.

Academic Honor Day

At Academic Honor Day, the Class of 2025 was welcomed into the Dominican Alumnae Association. Alumnae presented the seniors with a Dominican rosary, designed by Rebecca “Becky” Bellows Crawford ’86 and handmade by Peggy Delarosa ’69.

Coffee & Cookies at LSU

Northshore Holiday Celebration

National Catholic Sisters Week

Honoring the Dominican Sisters and all women religious during Catholic Sisters Week, St. Mary’s Dominican High School Alumnae served meals to 70 residents at Covenant House. Food for the Italian dinner was donated by 16 Dominican Alumnae. Participating with Dominican during Catholic Sisters Week were Ursuline Academy and Holy Cross High School who also dedicated a day to provide meals at Covenant House.

Alumnae Perform at Carnegie Hall

On Memorial Day, 13 alumnae joined 6 Dominican students to perform at the iconic Carnegie Hall on the Ronald O. Perelman Stage, under the direction of two nationally acclaimed composers and conductors, alongside the New England Symphonic Ensemble.

AlumnaeBots

Margaret Bruce Camin '68 and the Robotics team were thrilled to meet at the inaugural Dominican AlumnaeBots event where students showed her everything robotics – EV3 robot dance, 3D print and CAD designs, lasercutting demonstration, and driving a competition robot. Science teacher and Robotics Coach Mrs. Crissy Giacona called Margaret’s visit, “Incredibly impactful for our students. They truly enjoyed sharing their thoughts, showcasing their robot, presenting their 3D-printed designs, and demonstrating the robot in action. One of our team's goals is to spread awareness about robotics, and Margaret asked all the right questions –she was the perfect person to be our first alum visitor.”

Dominican Alumnae in DC Meet Up with Students

March for Life

Close Up

Breakfast with Baby Jesus

Advent Evening of Reflection

MILESTONE REUNIONS

2026 is right around the corner and many of you will be celebrating milestone anniversaries.

We invite all of you to come back to Dominican for your Anniversary year reunion. Class of 1951

75 year reunion

Class of 1976 50 year reunion

Class of 1991 35 year reunion

Class of 2001 25 year reunion

Class of 1986 40 year reunion

Class of 1996 30 year reunion

Class of 2006 20 year reunion

Class of 2016 10 year reunion

UPCOMING REUNIONS

CLASS OF 1976 – 50 YEAR REUNION

Planning for Saturday, April 11, 2026. Details to be emailed out soon.

CLASS OF 1985 – 40 YEAR REUNION

Saturday, August 23, 2025 | 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm Rock n Bowl, 3016 S Carrollton Ave, NOLA 70118. Register online.

CLASS OF 2010 – 15 YEAR REUNION

Saturday, October 4, 2025 | 11:00 am until 2:00 pm

Wrong Iron on the Greenway, 3532 Toulouse St, NOLA 70119. Register online.

CLASS OF 2020 – 5 YEAR REUNION

Contact Molly Alexander: mlalexander625@gmail.com

Class of 2011 15 year reunion

Class of 2021 5 year reunion

REUNION PLANNING GUIDELINES

Planning your next class reunion?

The Dominican Alumnae Office is available to assist you with all your reunion needs!

• We offer on campus and off-site options, with a donation to Dominican built into the cost.

• We make it easy for you to coordinate your class reunion.

• There will be no out of pocket fees for the organizers.

• We will sign the vendor contract, create a link for your classmates to register online, provide your class with volunteers at your check in table, and take your class photo for the next edition of The Torch!

• We will also coordinate with your class to raise funds as a donation to Dominican in the name of your class.

Contact Alumnae Director Celeste Anding ’82 at alumnae@stmdhs.org to get started on your class reunion. We want to make your reunion fun and affordable for everyone in your class.

PAST REUNIONS

How to Get Involved

Alumnae Advisory Council 2025-2026

Members

We would like to thank our Dominican Alumnae Advisory Council! These Alumnae have stepped up to serve on the council for two years, most of them have given many more years, and countless volunteer hours to Dominican. We thank you for your service, insight and dedication as we continue the Dominican legacy for eternity. Your service is appreciated.

If you would like to become more involved, feel free to reach out to any of these alumnae:

Caroline McCall ’09, President Samantha Lee ’09, President Elect

Jordan Ruppert Finney ’11, Secretary/Treasurer

Yvonne Calvo ’82, Past President

Marley Bankston Belou ’05

Amelie Zimmer Bond ’16

Christie Morriz Burke ’70

Stacey Whitney Campo ’99

Sarah Carpenter Comeaux '99

Sarah Ragusa Douglas ’06

Kathy Ciaccio Giler ’71

Maddie Bogart Gillen '16

Nancy Miller Glueck ’84

Katherine Johnson ’01

Kathleen Swiler LaGrange ’71

Renee Cangelosi Latino ’88

Margaret Peters Ludwig ’03

Sr. Angeline Magro ’55

Bonnie Belt McCollough '05

Clare Carpenter Muscarello ’88

Allison Hymel Nielsen ’00

Ashley Wolfe O'Shields ’99

Karla Bonilla Peyton ’88

Petrea Latham Rhode ’83

Erin Lunn Ricouard ’84

Ashlyn Ciolino Rooney ‘07

Beryl Radcliff Small ’79

Denise Marrero St. Cyr ’82

Cleta Bujol Toepfer ’98

Andree Bonnaffons Tullis ’80

ALUMNAE MENTORING PROJECT

In its 165-year history, St. Mary’s Dominican High School’s graduates are among New Orleans’ most successful women. Dominican currently has more than 13,000 alumnae ranging from 18-102 years old. The knowledge base in the alumnae corps is vast, rich and diverse. The incredible spectrum of experience and abilities of our alumnae provide an untapped wealth of knowledge to share with our students. The Alumnae Mentoring Project connects alumnae with aspiring students who have an interest or a declared focus in an area of study or profession. This connection provides real life examples and touchpoints for the student’s development. Our goal is to create a framework that has a positive impact on our students’ professional and spiritual formation.

Creators and collaborators to the Alumnae Mentoring Project are: Celeste Shelsey Anding ’82, Ellen Roniger Tombaugh ’88, Andrea Rye ’10, Caroline McCall ’09, Kathleen Sullivan, M.D. ’89, Nelita Ramey ’79, Katie Faust, M.D. ’03, Jennifer Gniady ’90, Gloria Thomas ’20, Gissel Alvarez ’23, Ashley Ernestine Anglin, Ph.D. ’01. Please email the Alumnae Office at alumnae@stmdhs.org, if you would like to offer assistance with this program.

Alumnae Association Dues for 2024 - 2025

Established in 1901, the St. Mary’s Dominican High School Alumnae Association continues to strengthen its heritage with each graduating class.

Annual alumnae dues are vital to the operational expenses of the Alumnae Office and are used to produce The Torch. Dues also help to offset costs of the many events coordinated by the Alumnae Office including Shadow My Saddles, Breakfast with Baby Jesus, Easter Egg Roll, Cocktails in the Courtyard, Homecoming Weekend, and so much more!

Class of 1938 - 1966...........Dues $20

Class of 1967 - 2019...........Dues $40

Class of 2020 - 2025...........Dues $20

Please make checks payable to DHS or visit our website, www.stmarysdominican.org, and click on the Give to Dominican tab - Donate Online - Alumnae Giving.

If you have any questions, comments, or would like to submit news for The Torch, email Alumnae Director Celeste Shelsey Anding ’82 at canding@stmdhs.org.

Thank You!

How to Stay Connected

PEACE CENTER GIFT REGISTRY

A request from 2022-2024 Alumnae Advisory Council President Nelita Ramey ’79 for the Alumnae Association to establish a gift registry supporting the Peace Center’s resources was unanimously board approved and is a resounding success. A ministry of the Dominican Sisters of Peace, the Peace Center has supported the Gert Town community since it opened August 2014. Collaborating with local partners, the Peace Center offers education and recreational programming for local children, career education and social support for adults, and physical, social, and community support for elderly residents, serving nearly 2,500 people annually.

In an effort to preserve and document our heritage, the Alumnae Office is asking for donations to complete the Legacy Wall of all class composites. We are creating composites for the missing classes from 1927-1970. The cost is $1000 for each class composite to be produced, printed, and framed. If you would like to donate to your class composite, or your mother's or grandmother’s, you can send a check to the Alumnae Office. Please include Class Composite and the class year on your check. Use the QR code to pay online.

All About Alumnae

ALUMNAE

A Toast of Praise to our 38 alumnae who returned to campus to be guests at Career Day 2024! Guest speakers were: Zoé Ashley ’19 (Graphic and Web Designer); Mia Bell, SFC ’12 (Platoon Sergeant of Multi-Role Bridge Company); Ellen Barkemeyer Benoit, MOT, LOTR ’13 (Mental Health Occupational Therapist); Robyn Schnadelbach Bruno ’02 (Realtor/Associate Broker); Stacey Carr, PE ’86 (Structural/Bridge Design Engineer); Anne Chabreck ’98 (Academic Assistant Principal); Chelsea Porche Creel ’10 (Crisis and Public Relations Manager); Alysia Vicknair Evans ’94 (Campaign Development Director); Amanda Waguespack Faucheux, CPA ’08 (Tax Senior Manager); Abby Gandolfi, MD ’01 (Physician – Internal Medicine); Laura Jaen Garcia, LCSW ’14 (Social Worker); Gabrielle Lambert Glasgow, MD ’00 (Pediatrician); Sarah Oertling Glennon ’07 (Chemical Engineer); Alison Clements Gros ’96 (Special Education Supervisor); Annrose Guarino, PhD, RD, LDN ’73 (Registered Dietitian); Madison Melancon Hartman ’14 (Communications Manager); Rachel Hensley ’15 (Forensic DNA Analyst); Kristen Herr, PharmD, BCPS, BCCCP ’12 (Pharmacist); Victoria Redfearn Johnson, BSN, RN ’14 (Emergency Room Nurse); Meg Alsfeld Kaul, JD, AAMS ’02 (Lawyer & Financial Advisor), Amanda Clewis Lambert, M.S., CCC-SLP ’03 (Speech-Language Pathologist); Elizabeth Burkenstock Landry, CPA ’08 (Tax Senior Manager); Breanne Mitchell ’19 (Sr. Coordinator of Community Relations–New Orleans Pelicans); Erika Smith Mole ’06 (Paralegal); Michele Morel, JD ’85 (Attorney); Janis Malaki Neumann, NP-C, APRN ’05 (Nurse Practitioner); Jessica Lopez Prestenbach ’07 (Senior Human Resources NCO); Jolie Pugh ’18 (205th EN BN Medical NCO); Emily Ross, DPT ’14 (Physical Therapist); Meghan Rotolo ’18 (Partnership Marketing Coordinator–New Orleans Saints & New Orleans Pelicans); Eva Schmidt ’15 (Bioengineering); Calli Schneider, PA-C ’13 (Physician Assistant – Orthopedic Spine Surgery); Elicia Broussard Sheridan ’97 (Senior Director- Social Responsibility & Youth Sports Development–New Orleans Saints & New Orleans Pelicans); Jennifer Wolfe Smiley ’04 (Food Coach Expert/Business Owner); Lauren Weicks Stelly ’07 (Chemical Engineer); Jennifer Cernich Theriot, RN, BSN ’96 (Pediatric Nurse); Kristen Tholen ’18 (Universal Theme Park Designer); Stephanie Waguespack, CPA ’14 (Audit Manager).

Connect

ALUMNAE with STUDENTS

STEWARDS OF THE EARTH

Follow your passion was the advice from Ecology and Stewardship Club guest speaker Dr. Aimée K. Thomas ’91, Assistant Professor, Department of Biological Sciences at Loyola University New Orleans. Dr. Thomas spoke about how her interest in spiders and insects started at an early age. During her Dominican years, she was active in the Science Club and passionate about the environment.

Ecology Club members and moderator Mrs. Joann Haydel welcomed guest speakers from the Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana (CRCL) – Dominican alumna Abby Slattery ’18, Serve Louisiana Oyster Shell Recycling Program coordinator, and her colleague. Their presentation covered past and current coastal issues and the positive impact of the CRCL program.

BIOETHICS

In a Teams meeting, Katie Dardis Singleton ’01 spoke with senior English classes about Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s book Dear Ijeawele, or A Feminine Manifesto in Fifteen Suggestions and offered a Catholic perspective on feminism. Katie, a graduate of Catholic University, earned a Licentiate in Bioethics from the Regina Apostolorum in Rome. Some of her interests include bioethics and John Paul II's Theology of the Body and discussing the spirituality of motherhood and marriage.

YOUNG ALUMNAE IN BIOTECHNOLOGY

Dominican's Biotechnology Club welcomed two young alumnae guest speakers during the school year. (above) Cole Pittman ’18 shared her experiences and insights about the Physician Assistant program and its many career opportunities. Cole, a graduate of Colorado State University, is currently in the PA Program at LSU Health Science Center, School of Allied Health. (right) Pharmacology was the focus for Biotechnology Club guest speaker Sarah Fath ’21, who shared with students college curriculum and career opportunities. Sarah is a first-year pharmacy student at the University of Mississippi.

THEY WENT ON DOWN TO THE AUDUBON ZOO

(above) Mr. Mark Gonnella’s Psychology AP students took their learning beyond the classroom with a trip to the Audubon Zoo, where they explored how behavioral conditioning plays a crucial role in animal training. Dominican alumna Emma Steeg ’17, an animal trainer at the zoo, provided a personal tour and presentation on how operant conditioning supports both animal husbandry and veterinary care. (right) Emma, who works in the Asian Domain, also hosted members of the Ecology & Stewardship Club to share her knowledge about the animals and unique ecosystems of this region of the world.

TOAST OF Praise

ALUMNAE with STUDENTS Connect

LSU CONNECTIONS

Students in science teacher and Dominican alumna Janine Koenig’s advanced biology honors class participated in a GeneBIORETS student workshop at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center (LSUHSC) in New Orleans. Following an introduction to LSUHSC, the students went to an anatomy simulation lab, followed by a genetics forensics lab. The session on human organs demonstrations was with second year medical student and Dominican alumna Alex Minnard '19. The lead testing session was with Dominican alumna Saheba Cuccia '19 in the School of Public Health where she assists in technology resources for students with disabilities.

Janine Koenig '82, also Dominican’s Biotechnology Club moderator, holds a Master of Arts in Science Teaching. She was one of five high school teachers from the New Orleans area who spent the summer at the LSU School of Medicine state-of-the-art research labs through the GeneBIORETS Grant from the National Science Foundation. Only two grants were awarded nationally in 2024.

50 juniors from Madelyn Maldonado’s Anatomy & Physiology classes visited LSU Health New Orleans School of Nursing for an incredible, hands-on experience. The day included a Current Student Panel, Q&A with faculty and nursing leaders (who are also Dominican alumnae), and a tour of the impressive Simulation Center—where students train with realistic, functioning equipment in a controlled environment before working with real patients.

We were proud to see six Dominican alumnae now serving as faculty and mentors at LSU Health: Dr. Marie Mangin Adorno ’78, Dr. Kendra Barrier ’79, Dr. Jennifer Smith Martin ’93, Dr. Kristen Curtis Ramsey ’96, Dr. Melissa Ferniz Nunn ’03, and Carol Falk Ganucheau ’04.

1970, 1975, and 1978

Dominican Alumnae retire from St. Mary's Dominican High School: JoAnn Gemelli Schexnayder ’75, Marcia Menard Peyton ’78, and Theresa Harris Maquar ’70. Also pictured is Cathy Rice who retired from Dominican. A Toast of Praise for your commitment to the Dominican Legacy.

1980

In 1985 Marianne Maumus, MD founded Camp Tiger to bring together first year medical students and New Orleans area children who have chronic illnesses. Forty years and counting, each summer Camp Tiger is organized and staffed by current first year medical students of the LSUHSC School of Medicine in New Orleans. Camp Tiger invites children between the ages of 6-15 years old in the New Orleans, Northshore, Baton Rouge and Lower Parish metropolitan areas who are physically and/or mentally challenged for a week-long day summer camp.

1982

Nominated by Dominican, Janine Jacques Koenig was among the 2025 New Orleans Archdiocese Distinguished Alumni Award recipients. The awards recognize women and men identified by their alma mater as exemplars of the values taught in Catholic schools. Janine has been a science teacher at Dominican for 17 years.

1987

Kristin Tortorich McKeough was among the recipients of the 2025 New Orleans Archdiocese Distinguished Alumni Award. Kristin was nominated by her alma mater, St. Ann School, where she has been teaching for 32 years.

All About Alumnae

1992

Colette Bagert Hirstius has been named President, Shell USA, in addition to her current role as Executive Vice President, Gulf of America.

During a campus visit, mezzosoprano Olga Perez Flora visited Music Director and Fine Arts Chair Brenda Castillo and some of her music students. The Cuban-American mezzo-soprano was in New Orleans, with spouse and tenor James Flora, for their performance at the Orpheum Theatre. Both are music faculty at the University of New Mexico. Olga credits much of her success as an opera singer and professor to the strong foundation she received at Dominican and shared, “My time at Dominican was formidable and helped me to grow and learn. As a professor, I still use many of the wonderful tools I learned at Dominican, and I sing in French quite a bit of which I took four years there.”

1995

Danica Benbow

Denny has been named Chairman of the Firm at Frilot, LLC. A dedicated member of the Frilot team for 25 years, Danica brings exceptional leadership, deep institutional knowledge and a passion for strategic growth in her new role.

September 5, 2024, Chantel Jolly, MBA achieved the rank of Chief Master Sergeant (E-9) in the Louisiana Air National Guard. This is the highest enlisted rank in the United States Air Force. Approximately 1.25% of Airmen reach this rank. Chantel has served honorably for over 28 years.

1996

Allison Verges Walters was named Chief of Staff and General Counsel of Angels for Change (A4C), the nation’s only nonprofit solely dedicated to ending drug shortages. It was founded by Laura Bray after her daughter faced three life-threatening drug shortages during pediatric cancer treatment. A4C advocates for patients experiencing life-saving drug shortages, operates the nation's only Drug Shortage Hotline (DSH), and collaborates across the pharmaceutical supply chain to eliminate these preventable healthcare crises. Reflecting on her new role, Allison said: “It’s an honor to formally join Angels for Change as Chief of Staff and General Counsel. For five years, I’ve been proud to stand alongside Laura and the Bray family on this journey. I’m excited to devote myself fully to creating systemic change and ensuring no patient is left without access to life-saving medication.”

1998

Katherine Maquar Daughtery, a 2025 New Orleans Archdiocese Distinguished Alumni Award recipient, was nominated by St. Cletus Catholic School (Class of 1994) where she has been teaching for 19 years.

2001

Ashley E. Anglin, MS, LPC-S, Psychotherapist and Owner of “Bridging the Gap Psychcare” has earned her PhD from the University of Holy Cross in the Counseling Graduate Program.

2014 and 2018

On a visit to Dominican, parent Otto Briede and daughters Gillen ’14 and Halle ’18 gifted to the school, From A Loving Father: The Chronicles of

Otto’s Notes. The book, a compilation of Mr. Briede’s notes to Dominican’s Attendance Office, spans from 2009 when Gillen started 8th grade to 2018 when Halle graduated. Gillen and Halle, the book’s editors, described the book, “a labor of love. From gathering all the letters to deciphering the handwriting, it was a joy to look back and laugh at these notes (once we figured out what he was saying). We love that so many of you have found the same joy we found in them and hope you’ll look back on this when you need a laugh.”

2019

Chloe Whitcomb joined Dominican's faculty as an English teacher. Welcome back, Chloe!

2022

Jenna Thomas credits a family friend connecting her with Baylor University’s campus. “From the moment I stepped on this beautiful campus, I felt at home,” said Jenna, in her third year at Baylor. “Baylor’s deep Christian commitment was evident in every aspect of campus life, not just in name but in the way that faith is integrated into academics, student life, and the broader mission of the University.” The sense of belonging extends to her academic work. As a University Scholars major, the Louisiana native is concentrating in environmental science with a secondary major in philosophy, while minoring in environmental humanities and environmental studies on the pre-law track. Jenna’s hope is to pursue a career in environmental law and advocacy.

Catherine Mansfield was named Drum Major of the 132nd edition of Louisiana State University’s Golden Band from Tigerland. Catherine was the LSU band’s piccolo section leader for the past two seasons and a co-drum major of the Dominican band her senior year.

Special Delivery

WELCOMING A GIRL

(A) Lauren Perry ’00

(B) Elizabeth Abadie Carper ’04

(C) Ashlyn Ciolino Rooney ’07

(D) Amanda Steen LeGuluche ’08

(E) Ashley Bertaut Stickman ’10

(F) Shaysa Lewis ’13

(G) Stephanie Clavin Landry ’15

WELCOMING

A BOY

(H) Gabrielle Richard Benoit ’08

Wedding Bells

Adelyn Nicole Becker ’18

Brooks Jared Culotta

Our Dearly Departed Sisters

Our prayers and condolences to all members of our Dominican community and their families who have experienced losses this year.

We are saddened by the passing of our St. Mary’s Dominican High School Board member and friend, Brian North.

On behalf of the St. Mary’s Dominican High School Community, we express our heartfelt sympathy to Brian’s wife, Sueann, daughter, Molly (Class of 2010), son, William, and his entire family. We pray for the fullness of eternal life for a man of God who lived as a “man for others.”

His fidelity to our Catholic faith, expertise in finance, and knowledge of the uniqueness of Catholic education in New Orleans, made him an excellent collaborator with the Dominican Sisters and laity in school governance and stewardship since 2009. We are grateful for Brian and for his extraordinarily generous service as a Director and Finance Committee Chair and for his guidance to the Leadership Team.

We will miss our friend, Brian. We will miss his presence, insights, clarity, and practicality while serving in Board leadership roles. His memory will live on and have a lasting effect on St. Mary’s Dominican High School governance and continued mission effectiveness.

“. . . I am the resurrection and the life; whoever believes in me, even if he dies, will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die.”

John 11:25

St. Mary’s Dominican High School

7701 Walmsley Avenue

New Orleans, LA 70125

Torch is a publication of the St. Mary’s Dominican High School community for alumnae, parents, faculty, staff, and friends.

VERITAS

"Veritas" is a stunning limited-edition lithograph print by the artist Becky Fos (B.Fos). The print measures 16 x 24 inches. Inspired by the iconic fountain in St. Mary’s Dominican High School’s courtyard, this piece symbolizes the continuous flow of knowledge and wisdom. Fos brings the fountain to life in her signature impasto style, using bold, almost neon hues to create depth and energy. The artwork incorporates the concept of "Veritas," reinforcing the school's commitment to truth and intellectual pursuit. A vibrant and meaningful addition to any collection, "Veritas" captures the spirit of learning and enlightenment.

Purchase Here

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