Stuart News, Spring 2015

Spring 2015

COMING THIS SUMMER: Lower School Transformation

STUART COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL OF THE SACRED HEART

Spring Greetings from Patty As part of last year’s 50th anniversary activities, Stuart developed a plan to ensure our amazing educational space would live long and sustainably into the future.

To that end, we engaged the Stone House Group of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania to perform a comprehensive facilities assessment. The Stone House Group is renowned for assisting schools in responsible planning and management of energy, natural and financial resources. Guided by their comprehensive report, we now have a ten-year roadmap for school-wide maintenance and modernization. Since last spring, Stuart has tackled many of the report’s major recommendations – making amazing strides in lowering our energy costs and consumption.

Imagine our excitement when, this fall, Mrs. Betty Wold Johnson pledged a generous gift that would support a sustainably designed Lower School renovation. The renovation project would honor one of our founding mothers, Mrs. Millie Harford, fulfill our academic vision for the Lower School, AND incorporate clearly articulated facility upgrades outlined in the Stone House Group report! After all, Millie helped set the stage for innovative instruction in our school’s earliest years, serving as one of Stuart’s first Early Childhood teachers. Here was an opportunity to couple our ongoing commitment to educational excellence with the supportive structures necessary to create sustainable, state-of-the-art learning spaces for our Lower School girls.

I hope you will enjoy the visually stunning representations of our future Lower School and will share our enthusiasm for the cutting edge teaching and learning that this new space will support. In addition, I hope you’ll share our passion for the environmentally conscious infrastructure that will be foundational to this renovation. New lighting, heating, and exterior treatments will be critical to ensuring that this will be a sustainable educational space able to serve our girls well into the future while stewarding our resources.

I am so very grateful to all who are helping us realize this amazing transformation.

Additional funds are being sought to match Mrs. Johnson’s challenge. Thanks, too, to our Board of Trustees for having the discipline to reserve monies on an annual basis, providing the additional funds to address infrastructure. We can’t wait for the September unveiling! Watch our progress over the next few months at www.stuartschool.org.

Patty L. Fagin, PhD, Head of School

Stuart Country Day School of the Sacred Heart serves 455 students in preschool through grade 12. The school admits students of any race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin to all the rights or privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, scholarships, or loan programs or athletic or other school-administered programs. Stuart is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, and is a member of the international community of Sacred Heart Schools, the National Association of Independent Schools, the New Jersey Association of Independent Schools, the National Coalition of Girls’ Schools, the Secondary School Admission Board, the College Board, the Education Records Bureau, the Association of Supervision and Curriculum, and the Online School for Girls.

Spring 2015

Planting Millie’s Garden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Shelley Hearne ’79 Supports Fitness Center Renovation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Sans Words: A Visual Art Reflection by Maya Kuang ’15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 STEM Endorsement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 GOAL I: Bishop David O’Connell Visits Stuart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 GOAL II: Stuart Girls Find Inspiration in Visiting Authors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 GOAL III: Christmas Sharing Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 GOAL IV: Community . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 GOAL V: Center for Girls’ Leadership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Assistant Division Heads Take On New Roles in the Middle and Upper School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Around Campus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Alumnae Career Speakers Mentor our Girls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Board of Trustees 2014–2015

Co-Chairs

Mark Johnson Suzanne Plambeck Scott Blandford Karin Borchert Patricia Costante Kristin Rodewald Dawson ’80 Patty L. Fagin, PhD Rene Johnson Nancy Kehoe, RSCJ Sara Burchell Kestner ’96 Joan Kirby, RSCJ Cheryl Lagay Laura Lamke Melinda La Nasa Pablo Lapuerta, MD Lorraine McGowen Maureen O’Halloran, RSCJ Hamilton F. Potter III Sohini Rath Cynthia Reiche Schumacker ’73 Marguerite Vera James P. Winder Kathy Zavotsky

Millie’s Garden: Page 2

Planting Millie’s Garden: Transforming the Lower School Imagine a place where a young girl writes her own fairy tale and brings it to life!

She directs her classmates, in full costume, with lighting, in an on-stage performance. Instead of a traditional set, her actor-friends perform in front of a green backdrop—an advanced, state-of-the-art green screen – while an older student, a sixth grader, films the performance. Her classmates use the magic of video effects and technology to superimpose the actors onto a virtual fairy tale background.

Preliminary Floor Plan

“Your life is a sacred journey. It is about change, growth,

discovery, movement and transformation ... It is continuously

expanding your vision of what is possible …”

—Janet Erskine Stuart, RSCJ

Meanwhile, a K-4 grocery store is in the making as a kindergartener and fourth grader work together to sort, price, and stock goods on the shelves.

Off to the side, three second grade girls have moved bookshelves and thrown a few pillows down on the ground to create a secluded nook. They’re huddled with iPads in their laps, reading from the Kiva website, a global non-profit organization, researching where to donate the money they’ve worked so hard to raise.

The space that these girls work in is not a library or a computer lab. It’s not a theater or a creative makerspace. Yet it’s all these things and more—all wrapped up together and integrated into everyday learning as an extension of the

Existing Floor Plan

This rendering gives a preliminary idea of what the space might feel like.

“Since 1963, Stuart’s mission has been to provide our girls an innovative and challenging education, and in the words of Millie Harford, ‘with a door open to the world.’” — Dr. Patty L. Fagin, Head of School classroom. It has been imagined, and now, plans are in the works to create this innovative space right here at Stuart. A transformational renovation of our Lower School facilities will take place this summer. Construction will begin in June and will be completed when students return to school in September.

The existing floor plan of the Lower School K-2 area will be reconfigured to revolve around an expansive community learning space called Millie’s Garden: The Heart of the Lower School, named for Millie Harford, one of our founding mothers and an early

pre-kindergarten teacher at Stuart. This large common area will be equipped with flexible furnishings and state-ofthe-art technology, and will be designed to encourage hands-on exploration, creation and collaboration between students, teachers and the greater community. New classrooms and offices will have easy access to Millie’s Garden at either end and will accommodate the move of one of our junior kindergarten classes into the Lower School.

The new Lower School space will look out onto the Townsend Garden on one side and the playground on the other.

Mrs. Betty Wold Johnson, a past Stuart parent and Trustee, has committed a lead matching gift to the renovation project. “We are so very grateful to Mrs.

According to Head of Lower School Michelle Dowling, “At the very core of a Lower School education at Stuart is a commitment to immerse our students in the experience of learning. A learning-

Johnson,” said Dr. Fagin. “Her gift will essentially allow donors to double the impact of their contributions.”

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“It is all about the growth, discovery and transformation for our girls.”

Above: Kindergarten classes take part in stimulating hands-on, project-based learning. by-doing approach encourages our teachers to act as facilitators who engage the girls in interdisciplinary studies and project-based learning.” The current Lower School classrooms were built 50 years ago and, though reconfigured over time, segregated rooms work against collaboration and integration across subjects or grade levels.

In the Lower School, deliberate emphasis has been placed on the curriculum, the schedule, and faculty meeting times so that our superb teachers might be able to successfully implement an interactive and engaging interdisciplinary program. Continued investments made through strategic planning in faculty development, support, time and resources are at the core of this significant endeavor. As science, technology, math, language arts, literacy, and world language come together—

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hands-on, creative, project-based learning becomes an exciting reality.

Parents with children in the Lower School have already seen the change in the daily schedule to create larger blocks of time, which allow for more in-depth, hands-on and cross-over project work such as the scenarios at the beginning of this article. Language arts, theater arts and technology intersect, for example, in the fairy tale performances; while mathematics and financial literacy skills are practiced through collaboration as in the K-4 grocery store or paired with social action through the Kiva research. Now, our learning spaces will be in line with the curriculum and schedule, to fully support the education of our girls.

After reviewing bids from six Princetonarea architectural firms, the design and project management for the

renovation was awarded to Richardson Smith Architects in Princeton. Their incredible design for the space creates a metaphorical garden that unites the Townsend Garden on one side and the Lower School playground on the other.

Inspired by these outside areas, the new common learning area, Millie’s Garden, will feel like a garden itself—ideal for childhood growth and discovery.

Architect Juliet Richardson said, “In our design, we sought to create a metaphorical garden unique to Stuart that would unite the outdoor spaces on either side.” She explained, “We looked to the work of Jean Labatut for inspiration, interpreting his architectural language in a new way to produce a design that both resonates with the past and presents a new vision for the future.”

The architectural and design elements of Millie’s Garden are rooted in our extraordinary school building and natural surroundings. With Stuart’s original architect, Jean Labatut, as a guide, Richardson Smith is using organic forms, color and texture that mimic the natural outdoors. Indoor, child-friendly renditions of boulders, lawns, hedges and trees are brought inside, and floor to ceiling windows with pathways that cross the thresholds

Furniture in the new classrooms will be similar to our kindergarten furniture. blur the lines of where the inside stops and the outdoors begin.

Printed books will be everywhere as the library is pulled into the common space with shelving of different heights and arrangements. Some bookshelves will be mobile, allowing for flexibility when using the space. A platform stage with the green screen backdrop will enable the girls to perform and experiment with cutting edge theater production equipment. Technology stations where students can plug in and hands-on creative arts supplies and work tables will provide endless opportunities for the girls to collaborate and exchange ideas.

this renovation, our vision and Sacred Heart mission come together as we transform our Lower School into Millie’s Garden—an innovative space

designed to fully support teaching and learning for our girls not only today, but well into the next century.

The gathering space will be large enough to accommodate the entire Lower School for prayer, presentation and the sharing of ideas. Yet soft cushions in quiet corners, an abundance of natural light, and walls of windows to the great outdoors will foster imagination and contemplation.

Guided by Mother Janet Erskine Stuart’s words of wisdom spoken over 100 years ago, we know that all of us at Stuart are on a sacred journey that is all about the growth, discovery and transformation for our girls. As we continue to expand our vision through

Millie Harford (2nd from left) joined the Lower School girls to announce the plans for Millie’s Garden

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Shelley Hearne ’79 Supports Fitness Center Renovation

Stuart athletes will benefit from a renovated fitness center thanks to the generosity of alumna Dr. Shelley Hearne ’79.

Her gift has been used to purchase new strength and conditioning equipment and to update the flooring and lighting.

Shelley Hearne ’79 (left, in headband) on the Bowdoin basketball team

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Sports played a big role in Dr. Hearne’s life. She was captain of Stuart’s 1979 Division A Independent Schools state championship basketball team. She then continued playing

basketball in college and has participated in a wide range of sports since— from luge to mountain climbing. “Participation in athletics provided me with a lifetime of benefits. In addition to building a social network and having a lot of fun, sports helped hone my critical thinking skills, developed the habit of discipline, and taught me the essence of teamwork.” said Dr. Hearne.

Dr. Hearne was the managing director of the Pew Health Group of The Pew Charitable Trusts. She was also the founding executive director of the Trust for America’s Health, a national health advocacy organization dedicated to preventing epidemics, protecting people. Previously, she was the acting director of the New Jersey DEP Office of Pollution Prevention and a scientist with the Natural Resources Defense Council. She has authored many national health reports, from bioterrorism to obesity. Dr. Hearne has testified regularly before the U.S. Congress. She provides continual service to the public health field serving on National Academy of Science committees and chairing accreditation site visits to public health schools, including most recently, Harvard University and Yale University.

“We are incredibly grateful to Shelley,” remarked Dr. Patty Fagin. “Her generosity and volunteer support of Stuart through the years have been remarkable. Shelley told me that she relies on the principals of her Stuart education on a daily basis. She told me she carries a small card inscribed with the Sacred Heart Goals and that those principles provide a valuable framework for her personal and professional life.”

Stuart Director of Athletics Justin Leith added his thanks. “Upgrading the weight room was one of my top priorities when I arrived last fall,” he said. “A gift like this will not only support our current athletes but it is also helpful in recruitment and retention of new athletes and athletic staff. High-performance fitness equipment is an increasingly important training tool that Stuart must have to remain competitive with other schools. Most importantly, as the girls become stronger and better conditioned, injuries will decrease and confidence will increase,” Mr. Leith concluded.

The fitness center, located adjacent to the large gym, was completed prior to spring break.

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SANS WORDS

By Maya Kuang ’15

Art adds another dimension to our lives. Emotions and experiences enrich a work of art, just as they enrich our lives.

Each careful brush stroke and each carefree pencil scrawl creates a word that makes up the art language. Perfecting this language is a skill that takes both technical practice and adherence to an innate sensitivity. By joining the supportive Stuart community, I have been given the opportunity to hone this skill. With this ability, I have developed a unique way to communicate my emotions and experiences sans words.

As Stuart girls, we know that the green bricks that form Stuart’s walls were individually glazed to represent Stuart’s focus on our individual talents and interests. This is exemplified through my pursuits in the fine arts. My teachers acknowledged my passions and accompanied me along my journey in my artistic development. My art teacher since 6th grade, Ms. Wright, enhanced my perspective by encouraging me to test out all types of art mediums, including printmaking and clay sculpting. This broadened taste of the art realm enhanced my work with my main medium, painting. Like the rich, forest green glaze on the bricks, my works were all the richer with the experiences gained from my individualized education.

As my skills evolved, I became a better communicator through my artwork and was commissioned for art projects. Meanwhile, the Stuart community continued to nurture my abilities. During my high school career, I received requests for several school projects, including seasonal landscape artworks of Stuart. I was also honored to design the school ring for the Junior Ring Ceremony; such possibilities were a direct encouragement and gave me great confidence for my future endeavors.

The Stuart Ring, redesigned

by Maya Kuang ’15

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It seems like designing and painting realistic scenes require little emotional input. However, as I created works for my school, I realized that this was not the case. I became increasingly sensitive to the atmosphere of

Above: Maya’s painting of Stuart in Springtime Left: Art Teacher Ms. Phyllis Wright with Maya

Stuart—the warmth, the tranquility, the pensiveness of the building and its inhabitants. This sparked my desire to somehow share my perception of Stuart with the viewer. In my art pieces, each child wearing a kilt, each deer, and each rock all have something in common: simply Stuart.

The Stuart community lives and breaths the Sacred Heart Goal Five, “Schools of the Sacred Heart commit themselves to educate to personal growth in an atmosphere of wise freedom.” Everyone in this community is an advocate of our talents. Even our peers help us on the journey in selfknowledge and self-confidence by constantly providing supportive words. With our gifts, we are constantly empowered to share it with the wider community. Sharing is what makes our gifts, gifts.

Stuart is dynamic, allowing me to practice my language and providing me with feedback. I grew to love speaking through my art and receiving an enthusiastic response in return. The responsiveness of my community sparks my desire to further bring out my feelings unto the blank canvas. The deer slaking its thirst at the clear spring is a wonderful symbol for Stuart; like this deer, our pursuits

are accepted and nurtured by our environment. In return, this deer will continue to drink from the stream, keeping this nurturing source constantly dynamic.

The educators at Stuart have strengthened my belief that languages are beautiful and in our power. Not only did Stuart amplify my passion for the written language, but Stuart also bolstered my passion for the visual language. The experiences and opportunities I gained within the green brick walls add another dimension to my life. This is a dimension I can regularly tap into, so that I can communicate with others sans words.

Fine arts events shown here include: 1. The Early Childhood Hoedown 2–3. Upper School Musical, The Pajama Game 4–5. Middle School World Arts Day 6. The Kindergarten Fairy Tale Theater

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STEM Endorsement Leadership in STEM

A highlight of Stuart’s 2014 Strategic Plan is the continued importance of expanding experiences in the STEM fields for all of our girls.

Under the leadership of Dr. Michael Schwartz, Stuart’s STEM programs continue to expand, giving our students a wide variety of experiences, including a new STEM Sisterhood that provides valuable outreach and student leadership opportunities, Little Engineers for our youngest children, Engineering is Elementary in the Lower School, as well as numerous clubs, classes, and mentoring opportunities. In addition, technology and interdisciplinary project-based learning are being integrated into curriculum at all grade levels.

Stuart’s reputation as a leader in STEM education continues to blossom, as evident in the October 2014 CNN article quoting Dr. Patty Fagin on how to interest more girls in STEM, and in the growing number of administrators and faculty members who present workshops on STEM education at educational conferences throughout the country (see inset).

One of the many exciting new STEM programs in the Upper School is the opportunity for our young women to earn a STEM endorsement on their high school transcript. This endorsement will reflect a student’s commitment to pursuing studies in the STEM fields, above and beyond the curriculum required for graduation with a diploma from Stuart.

To graduate with the STEM endorsement on their diplomas, students must fulfill the following requirements:

As recognized leaders in the field of STEM education for girls, numerous Stuart faculty and administrators have presented their work at regional and national education conferences throughout the country, including NJ Association of Independent Schools (NJAIS), National Coalition of Girls Schools (NCGS), National Science Teachers Association (NSTA), NJ Science Convention, International Technology and Engineering Educators Association (ITEEA) and Harpeth Hall’s Conference on STEM Education for Girls. Over the last two years the following faculty and administrators have presented or led workshops at a total of seven conferences, with two more are already scheduled for this summer.

Heidi Echternacht Anne Hoppenot Melinda Huffman-Schwartz Robert Missonis Elena Nickerson

Jackie O’Gorman Michael Schwartz Alicia Testa Rose Wong Phyllis Wright

Four Year Commitment Students must apply and be accepted into the program as freshmen. (As an exception for this first year, current sophomores are allowed to apply.)

Course Requirements ·· 4 full-years of Laboratory Science and/or Mathematics courses ·· 3 trimester elective courses (see below) ·· 2 trimesters of Computer Science STEM Discussion Groups Students will participate in group discussions, organized and facilitated by senior STEM students with a focus on real-world current events, research, and advances in the fields of STEM. The discussion groups will serve as mentoring opportunities for seniors (who will select topics of interest to them and lead discussion) and will help all students to diversify their thinking by introducing them to new STEM-related subjects in these fast-changing fields.

Independent Research Project (Junior Year) Students will work on an in-depth research project in a STEM field of study, earning one credit for research. The project may take a variety of formats such as long-term data collection culminating in a research paper or research that culminates in an exhibit with artifacts created in Stuart’s MakerSpace.

college application process if a student plans to major in a STEM field in college. A STEM Endorsement substantiates her commitment, interest, and capabilities in STEM.”

STEM Portfolio (Senior Year) All STEM endorsement candidates will track and record their work throughout the four years in the program.

The portfolio will not only be a collection of each girls’ extensive STEM work in the Upper School, but will also be a helpful resource for reflection as the student embarks upon the college application process.

STEM-Related Conferences & Workshops Students will participate in three approved STEM-related workshops and/or conferences by the end of their senior year. An example would be the 2014 CUNY Graduate Center in Manhattan forum, titled STEMinism: Inspiring Women Scientists 2014 that sought to “bring together the best and brightest STEM students in the NYC area with experienced professionals, academics, and advanced graduate students to discuss the challenges and opportunities of being a woman in STEM.” Teaching at one of Stuart’s popular Young Women in STEM summer or after-school workshops would also qualify, as would a day’s visit to the annual Maker Faire at the New York Hall of Science.

STEM-Designated Courses Three STEM-designated trimester elective courses are required. Science, math, and technology faculty are proposing new and exciting course ideas each year, so course offerings will vary from year to year. Sample trimester courses may include: ·· Anatomy and Physiology

·· Biotechnology

·· Design of Emerging Technologies

·· Forensic Science

·· Exploring Mathematical Modeling

·· History of Medicine and Disease

For Stuart girls who are considering the pursuit of higher education and careers in STEM, the endorsement provides the opportunity not only to pursue their interests and passions at Stuart, but also, according to Director of College Counseling Robyn Henry, allows colleges and universities to see that applicants are passionate about their interests: “The STEM designation on a transcript can be helpful in the

The STEM Endorsement Program at Stuart touches on so many areas of a student’s Upper School experience, going far beyond taking a few extra STEM classes. Our unique program has many facets—coursework, portfolio, independent research, workshops/conferences, mentoring, and leadership—all in support of our mission to continue to prepare young women for lives of exceptional leadership and service, through a challenging and innovative curriculum, superb teaching, and close attention to each girl’s personal development.

STEM programming has been generously supported by The Mario Family Foundation, Joane deTuro Patrick ’85, The Edward E. Ford Foundation and numerous other members of the Stuart community.

Design of Emerging Technologies (below) is a hands-on, project-based course that allows students to learn how to build devices that interact with computers, learn how emerging technologies interact, and explore how these emerging technologies can be used.

In Robotics, students will work on basic engineering, computer programming, and the synthesis of science and math as they focus on teamwork, project management, and problem solving to increase their technological literacy. The goal is to compete as members of Stuart’s Sparks Robotics team in the First Tech Challenge.

In Biotechnology, students will study improving the quality of human and animal life through the understanding of disease and medical treatments, and the production and quality of food. Students will use state-of-the-art laboratory equipment and techniques, and the economics and ethics of the use of biotechnology will be addressed.

Countless opportunities, moments and memories

ON “GIVING TUESDAY”

DOLLARS RAISED

90,687

come alive at Stuart each year with your gift to the Stuart Fund. Here are a few:

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COLLEGES VISIT STUART

2,400 FOOTPRINTS ON

STUART’S NATURE TRAIL

We’re counting on you! www.stuartschool.org/give

Please note, the 2014–2015 Stuart Fund concludes on June 30.

Bishop’s Visit Makes History

GOAL I Active Faith

When Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., visited Stuart in November, he became the first and only Bishop to celebrate the Eucharist in the school’s 51-year history.

A palpable excitement accompanied him throughout the day, which included a tour of the school, an interview by students, and a visit to an Upper School Morality class.

Martin Arsenault, Chair of Stuart’s Theology Department, shared that when Bishop O’Connell stopped by class, “He talked for several minutes with the students about what they were learning. They were so impressed by him and his examples that they didn’t want him to leave. Several students asked him to sign their morality textbooks.”

A natural educator, Bishop O’Connell began his career as a director of student activities and faculty at Archbishop Wood High School in Pennsylvania. Among his many accomplishments, O’Connell served as the 14th president of The Catholic University of America from 1998 until 2010. Along the way, he distinguished himself as a teacher of theology, canon law, philosophy, and religious studies.

In 2010, Pope Benedict XVI named O’Connell as Coadjutor Bishop of the Diocese of Trenton; following the resignation of Bishop Smith, O’Connell became the 10th Bishop of Trenton.

The celebration of Mass at Stuart was an opportunity for the school community to experience the wisdom and grace of this learned man and Catholic leader. While many students shared in this experience, one sophomore had a close-up view of the Bishop in his element. Claire Landers, ’17, performed the duties of altar server for this very important occasion. She reflected: “I really enjoyed serving the Bishop. It was a great honor to be able to work with him so closely. He was so nice and happy; he smiled at everyone and he was really great to be around. As an altar server, I get really nervous that I will mess

“He was so nice and happy; he smiled at everyone and he was really great to be around.” something up or drop something, but he made me feel very at ease, and I didn’t feel that there was this immense pressure on my shoulders like I had thought before the Mass. I consider myself very lucky to have been able to meet him and work with him like I did.”

Observations of Bishop O’Connell’s happiness were echoed

by Marty Arsenault, who said, “He connected with them immediately at the Mass. You could tell that he was genuinely happy to be at Stuart and with the students. It was evident to the students that he was happy to be here and they responded with a true outpouring of affection.” Clearly, the Bishop’s visit left a strong impression on many members of the Stuart community who, in the words of criterion four, Goal One were able to: “Open themselves to the transforming power of the Spirit of God…[and] engage in personal and communal prayer, reflection and action.”

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GOAL II Intellectual Values

INSPIRATION Eighth grader Nina Ajemian was in the second grade when she was asked to escort Paul Muldoon through the halls of the Lower School:

song by Naomi Shihab Nye or a senior scholar sharing lunch with a typically reserved Jhumpa Lahiri, students have had extraordinary encounters with some extraordinary authors.

“I remember Rebekah Ten Hagen and I brought him down the hallway towards the gym and showed him the artwork on display. I was so excited to be able to show a real author our school and to get to meet him and talk to him. It was an experience that I will remember forever.”

What follows are recollections from both current and former Stuart students who have been touched in tangible and profound ways by their experiences with the Lies, Light, McCarthy Visiting Author Program, now in its seventh year.

“The year I was selected to be a senior scholar, our Visiting Author for Mr. Muldoon, a Pulitzer Prize winning poet, professor at the year was Naomi Shihab-Nye. We familiarized ourselves with her Princeton University and Poetry Editor of The New Yorker, work in our English classes and I immediately I fell in love with her was Stuart’s first writer in the Lies, Light, poetry. I found myself reading it constantly, McCarthy Visiting Author Program, and outside of preparing my lessons for my Lower his presence on campus was nothing “Naomi Shihab-Nye said School class. A year later, inspired by Naomi short of magical. Kindergarten students Shihab-Nye’s poetry and suggestion to write that she’s a fan of me. every day (combined with an exercise a good flocked to him, offering illustrations of his poems and asking him to guess their friend of mine shared with me), I created 3:48 I’m still in awe.” names. As befits an author of his stature, AM: A Poetry Project. Oberlin College allows Mr. Muldoon was gracious, engaging, and its students to use the month of January —Amethyst Carey ’12 kind to each girl he met. Little did any of for internships, independent projects, etc. those girls know at the time that he would and 3:48 was my first Winter Term project. be the first in a long line of distinguished, award-winning I woke up at 3:48 AM every day for a month and wrote stream of authors to grace the Stuart community with their brilliance, consciousness poetry. Unrestricted by my own tendencies to edit and wisdom and generosity. rewrite and block myself from producing work, I was able to generate a few poems I was very proud of. (And a few nonsensical ones that While many in the Stuart community and beyond are familiar continue to make me laugh to this day.) I sent the project back to Dr. with the Visiting Author Program, very few know what a Manzulli and Ms. Jones, two of my English teachers at Stuart. Dr. lasting effect these visits have had on Stuart girls over the Manzulli forwarded the project on to Naomi Shihab-Nye who then years. Whether as a preschool class being led spontaneously in Visiting Authors (from left to right) Paul Muldoon (2009), Edwidge Danticat (2013), and Mark Salzman (2015)

GOAL II Intellectual Values

reached out to me to let me know how much she liked my project!

Naomi Shihab-Nye said that she’s a fan of me. I’m still in awe. I keep that email printed out above my desk as motivation for when things get rough.”

—Amethyst Carey ’12

“The program is a great opportunity for Stuart girls to learn about wellknown poets and authors.”

—Kathryn Ix ’21 “One of my favorite memories of high school was actually interviewing Jonathan Safran Foer. I honestly remember very little of what I asked or his responses, likely due to the sheer level of nervousness. I still have the interview saved on my tape recorder.

What I do remember about the interview was that I thought that he was an absolute dream—so nice and patient with me as my voice trembled and I tried to relate to his work through my own farming experiences. He answered everything eagerly and seemed to want to help me get the quotations that would improve the article, even if I didn’t ask the right questions.”

—Bethan Johnson ’11 “One of my favorite Stuart traditions is the Visiting Author program. The program is a great opportunity for Stuart girls to learn about well-known poets and authors. Last year, Jane Hirshfield came to speak to us about her life and her poetry. She told us that she is inspired by many famous poets, including Emily Dickinson, Walt Whitman, and T.S. Eliot. In the Lower School, we made a collection of God’s eyes and presented them to her during her presentation. She taught us that writing takes practice, patience, and learning. She is an inspiring woman.”

—Kathryn Ix ’21 “My favorite visiting author was Naomi Shihab Nye, because her poetry was very raw and sensory. Her holistic imagery encouraged an almost reverence and spirituality. I distinctly remember finding it interesting that through her poetry, we were able to tell that she was still in love with one of the subjects of her older poems, though she didn’t seem to realize it herself.”

—Fayette Plambeck ’15 “Hearing Jane Hirshfield read her poems in person was a beautiful experience: her poem, “For What Binds Us,” especially struck a chord with me because of the reverence, familiarity, and passion she embodied during the recitation. She is definitely a free and lovely spirit, original and quirky but a person whose words resound with everyone she meets.”

—Kate Blandford ’14

Poetry in Motion 5K Run & Fitness Fair: May 16

Register at stuartschool.org/5krun All proceeds from the Poetry in Motion 5K Run support the Visiting Author program.

The Visiting Author Program has been supported over the years by the proceeds raised by Poetry in Motion, Stuart’s annual 5K run. Much like the day that our author visits, race day is one that inspires a deep sense of community. Every year students volunteer at the race, some getting up very early in the morning to write excerpts of poetry along the race path, creating a literal connection between the poetry and the run. Two ‘regulars’ at the race share a few memories of the morning: “Every spring for four years I looked forward to volunteering for Poetry in Motion. It always felt rewarding and refreshing to walk along the race path in the early morning writing poetry quotations in chalk before the racers arrived. One of the best parts about volunteering for Poetry in Motion was being a proactive member of Stuart by participating and witnessing community building, and contributing to the Visiting Author program. It is an event that I still wish to participate in, despite having recently graduated.”

—Lily Wageman ’14 “Being able to write poetry on Stuart Road was such a privilege. I loved going out on the road with a few friends in the silence of the morning and writing these beautiful quotes from talented writers.

It was inspiring to be out on the quiet road and reflecting on the quotes we were writing down. It was one of those rare moments of tranquility we rarely find in our busy lives.”

—Mary Kate Zavotsky ’14

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GOAL III Social Action

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GOAL III Social Action

Christmas Sharing Program

by Celia Kuharsky (Katrina ’20)

E

ach year the Stuart Parent Association (SPA) reaches out to the Stuart community to provide for those in need. Our largest outreach effort, the Christmas Sharing Program, has been a December tradition for decades.

Just after Thanksgiving this year, the program began with a request to the Stuart community to provide a gift and clothing item for a child or family. Within just three weeks, more than 189 families and staff members provided donations that lined the hallways of Stuart. The gifts filled more than 75 30-gallon bags.

Stuart once again provided gifts, clothing, and living essentials to Trenton’s Doorway to Hope. The

organization, which was founded in 1980, provides emergency family housing to homeless families in Mercer County. Doorway to Hope was originally part of the Martin House organization.

Thanks to so many Stuart families, Doorway of Hope was able to brighten the lives of 175 children and their families who awoke Christmas morning to bicycles adorned with bows (15), dollhouses, scooters, electronics, basketball hoops, gift cards, clothing, and more. The Stuart community’s generosity was particularly heartwarming when families and staff rallied to provide last minute requests for a few remaining children. Not only were these children provided for,

but the outpouring of generosity also allowed us to provide each and every Doorway to Hope family a gift card for food and essentials.

It was an honor to be able to work with the parents and staff, all of whom so caringly granted the wishes of the children. I am especially grateful to have experienced the enthusiasm and the help from the students who volunteered to make bows, sort, bag, and load the truck.

Thank you to everyone who so generously volunteered and provided for the Stuart Christmas Sharing Program. I look forward to our continuing this wonderful SPA tradition this coming Christmas.

Above: Stuart girls load Christmas gifts onto a truck to be delivered to local children and families.

Below and opposite: Christmas gifts line the hallways at Stuart before being packaged and delivered to Doorway to Hope in Trenton.

Below: Celia Kuharsky with daughter, Katrina ’20 (far right) and classmate Aditi Mehndiratta.

GOAL IV Community

COMMUNITY

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GOAL IV Community

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Upper School through a new comed 12 girls from China into our wel e hav we rs yea two last the r Ove other activities, s jumped right into classes, sports and girl se The . gram pro ent stud al tion se illustrations interna ichment to our Stuart community. The enr and y rsit dive l ura cult ful der bringing won newspaper earlier this year. were created for The Tartan student

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GOAL V Social Action

GENEROUS GIFT FROM PATRICIA COSTANTE AND STEPHANIE CHAMPI ’12 LAUNCHES

CENTER FOR GIRLS’ LEADERSHIP As you walk through the glazed green brick halls of Stuart, you can’t help but notice extraordinary, confident young women with a sense of purpose and a camaraderie of sisterhood.

The Center for Girls’ Leadership has already had a concrete impact on the lives of our girls here at Stuart! This year we have expanded our leadership programs in the Upper School with several new initiatives, including leadership training for club officers, student attendance at a diversity leadership conference, faculty training and the development of a leadership diploma endorsement program.

Club Leadership Training

For over 50 years Stuart has educated young women leaders, and today, more than ever, Stuart is cultivating the next generation of female leaders. Guided by our Sacred Heart Goals and Criteria, these young women will make a difference in the world. Whether our alumnae choose to lead a Fortune 500 company or a local non-profit, each graduate will leave Stuart empowered to make an impact on the world around her.

A training program for Upper School club leaders has been developed by Dean of Students Samantha Ryan and Upper School Fine Arts Department Chair Jan Baldwin. The program is designed to give students the tools to run an effective meeting, develop listening skills, analyze group dynamics, and improve public speaking skills. All club leaders participated in this training at the beginning of the school year.

With this legacy of graduating young women leaders, we are proud to announce the launch of Stuart’s Center for Girls’ Leadership. The Center embodies the numerous leadership learning opportunities that already occur here at Stuart, and will expand our leadership programs to ensure we continue to support each girl to her greatest capacity. The Center is not a physical space, per se, but is an all-encompassing philosophy of educating our girls to become the best leaders that they can be.

NAIS Student Diversity Leadership Conference

In December, we sent five students to Indianapolis to attend the National Association of Independent Schools’ Student Diversity Leadership Conference (SDLC). Held each year, this conference is a wonderful opportunity for our students to engage in dialogue and activities focused on diversity, social justice, and cultural awareness. Natalie McGowen ’16, Asha Mohandas ’16, Amani Ahmed ’15, Armani King ’16, and Makeda White ’16 spent two and a half days with other high school students from independent schools across the country, immersed in an environment where they were asked to reflect on the concept of acceptance, and were challenged to suspend judgment. A wonderful outgrowth of the conference is that our students are organizing a mini-SDLC in spring 2016 and inviting students from local independent schools.

Leadership Diploma Endorsement

We know that leadership can be cultivated and developed through an exploration of leadership theory, the development of leadership skills and qualities and the application of this 20

The Harris B. Siegel Fund for Student Leadership The expansion of our leadership programs has been made possible by the Harris B. Siegel Fund for Student Leadership, established by Patricia Costante and Stephanie Champi ’12. Their generous gift was given to Stuart in gratitude for Mr. Siegel, a long time director of college counseling. “He empowered girls to take charge of matters of importance to them. We created the fund to support Upper School students’ pursuit of leadership opportunities,” said Ms. Costante. Her daughter, Stephanie Champi added, “Mr. Siegel always said that the special quality of a Stuart girl was an ability to actively participate in class, and it was what set them apart in college. I am so glad that the leadership program will continue to support Stuart girls in developing the skills that make us competitive in college and in life.”

knowledge. We are excited to offer our students the opportunity to pursue leadership studies and, if they choose, they may earn an endorsement in leadership to be noted on their high school transcript. Students must apply to the program, take three leadership courses and complete a practicum/independent study junior year and a final thesis presentation senior year.

New leadership courses for fall 2015 include: Leadership Theory and Ethics, Leadership Styles Students will explore the ideas and writing of some of the greatest thinkers in history, including: Aristotle, Kant, Rawls, Bok, and Goleman. Students will examine the values and principles of ethical character and decision-making.

Personal Leadership Development Students will examine different leadership styles of prominent leaders in our society. Leaders from different fields such as

GOAL V Social Action

government and politics, arts and entertainment, service, science and technology will be studied. Special attention will be given to powerful female leaders including Eleanor Roosevelt, Hillary Clinton, Virginia Woolf, Mother Teresa, Marie Curie, and Oprah Winfrey. Students will learn to identify and develop their own leadership styles, strengths and areas of growth.

Applied Leadership Students will learn the practical skills of goal setting and project management. They will also have the opportunity to lead and work in teams to develop programs and activities. The culmination of the course is the development and execution of a school program such as the mini-SDLC or the Young Women in Leadership Workshop.

Center for Girls’ Leadership as a Global Resource

Stuart is uniquely positioned to act as a model program and share our wealth of knowledge on girls’ leadership with other educators. Our teachers teach leadership each and every day, and continued professional development focuses on how to nurture leadership qualities in our girls. This past summer, four faculty members, Ms. Samantha Ryan, Dr. Michael Schwartz, Ms. Jan Baldwin, and Dr. Trisha Medeiros, attended the Gardner Carney Leadership Institute, which focused on learning how to develop leadership competencies in students. These teachers have in turn led our Upper School faculty through training workshops that included case studies with role playing, sample class activities, leadership style identification, and the latest research on teenage brain development. Through Stuart’s Center for Girls’ Leadership, we hope that work of our Stuart faculty will serve as a resource and model for educators around the globe.

In December, 2014 (left to right) juniors Makeda White, Natalie McGowen, Armani King and Asha Mohandas and senior Amani Ahmed represented Stuart at the annual Student Diversity Leadership and the People of Color Conferences.

Welcome Shiva Behradnia and Courtney Portlock

ASSISTANT DIVISION HEADS TAKE ON NEW ROLES IN THE MIDDLE AND UPPER SCHOOL

The changing landscape of 21st century education

continues to open up a wealth of opportunities for our girls here at Stuart.

Evolving technologies and innovative teaching pedagogy continue to expand learning so we can provide our girls with a Sacred Heart education that is truly global, collaborative and project-based throughout all grade levels. With this in mind, as part of Stuart’s Strategic Plan, the new positions of assistant head in both the Middle School and Upper School were created to provide additional support for our students, faculty and division heads in this new and exciting landscape.

We have been fortunate this year to welcome two very experienced academic administrators to the Stuart family to take on these new roles. This past fall, Mrs. Courtney Portlock joined the Upper School as assistant head and Ms. Shiva Behradnia is the new assistant head of the Middle School.

While responsibilities vary somewhat in the two divisions, in both Middle and Upper School, the assistant heads’ responsibilities are rooted in curriculum and instruction. The new roles are multifaceted and include a mix of administrative duties, teaching and curriculum development.

With the Academic Strategic Plan in mind, assistant heads are charged with supporting faculty, which includes helping faculty to align their goals with the Plan, assisting the division head with faculty evaluation and providing mentorship to faculty. In both divisions the assistant heads work with faculty on curriculum development, particularly cross-curriculum integration and interdisciplinary instruction. They also work on new course development and programs for students (i.e., the Leadership and STEM Endorsements).

In addition to admin duties, Courtney and Shiva are enjoying getting to know the girls personally. Courtney is the Upper School dean of academics and works one-on-one with students on course scheduling. In addition, both division assistant heads support students with academic concerns, are student advisors and also teach courses—Shiva, Grade 5 History, and Courtney teaches two Algebra II classes.

Courtney comes to Stuart from The Episcopal Academy in Pennsylvania where she wore many hats. Her experience in both administration and instruction have been an ideal foundation for the role of the assistant head of the Upper School at Stuart.

Most recently Courtney served for seven years as the director of diversity and community life at Episcopal, and worked to support faculty as a professional development instructor

and the new faculty mentor. At Episcopal she also developed curriculum and taught various middle and upper school courses in English, math, ethics and diversity, and dance. She also lectures on race and leadership as part of the University of Pennsylvania’s GSE program. Courtney holds a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from the University of Pittsburgh and a Master of Science in Education, Educational Leadership, from the University of Pennsylvania.

Shiva Behradnia brings extensive teaching and leadership experience to Stuart in her role as assistant head of the Middle School. She has worked in public and private education for over ten years, most recently at Montclair Kimberly Academy where she was the fifth grade dean, English language arts and social studies curriculum leader, and taught English and social studies. Shiva also was a member of the Academic Policy and Middle School Admissions Committees.

Prior to a career in education, she worked in the advertising industry in New York as a media buyer and media planner. Shiva holds a Master of Arts in Teaching in Elementary Education from Johns Hopkins University and is a certified K-5 Elementary Education Teacher in the state of New Jersey.

During her four years as a teacher in the public school system, she obtained an Education Leadership, Management and Policy Supervisor’s Certificate from Seton Hall University.

Far left: Assistant Head of Upper School Courtney Portlock Left: Assistant Head of Middle School, Shiva Behradnia hangs out with students in the MSRC.

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AROUND CAMPUS

As the Janet Erskine Stuart’s Centenary year came to a close, Stuart girls celebrated her life …

by planting hyacinth bulbs around the campus. Hyacinths hold a special place in Janet Stuart’s personal history: When Janet was in her early twenties she converted to Catholicism but didn’t become a Religious of the Sacred Heart right away. For three years she traveled, read and thought about what she wanted to do with her life. One May day, as she was walking through Regents Park in London, England, Janet came across a bed of blue hyacinths.

As she looked at them, she said, “The word of God came to me.”

She realized that God was calling her to religious life. As these new hyacinths bloom this spring, let us recall the deep faith that inspired the daily life of Janet Erskine Stuart.

Old Traditions I

n its 51-year history, Stuart has embraced a number of enduring traditions that celebrate its rich sense of community. From Halloween princesses to grown-up seniors bestowing rings on starry-eyed juniors, Stuart students make the most of every moment, taking to heart these words of Janet Erskine Stuart: “It is always here and now, there is always the present moment to do the very best we can with, and the future depends on the way these moments are spent.�

Green and White Day

Halloween 24

Loaves & Fishes

Right and above right: Eighth grade musical, Peter Pan

Junior Ring Ceremony

New Traditions

Remarkably, Stuart has also managed to introduce meaningful events that have become—in a very short time—the newest Stuart traditions. From the Thanksgiving Mandala to an Hour of Code, elements of each Sacred Heart Goal are apparent in these new traditions. And it is abundantly clear that Goal Four, which aims for the “building of community as a Christian value” is especially alive and well at Stuart.

Hour of Code

First grade harvests ice at Howell Living History Farm 26

Above: Eighth grade trip to Washington, D.C.

As good as life at Stuart is, the world beyond the green bricks beckons. At every grade level, students embark on journeys that enhance their lives and change their perspectives. Whether traveling near or far, Stuart students embrace these opportunities to see and do something new. 

Left: Thanksgiving Food Drive mandala Below: Fall sports pep rally

Fourth grade girls explore the New Jersey School of Conservation

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Alumnae Career Speakers Mentor our Girls Twice this year we were very excited to welcome inspirational alumnae back to campus, in person and via technology, to meet with the Middle and Upper School girls.

These phenomenal women joined the students during lunch to discuss their careers and the impact Stuart has had on their lives. The students were able to sign up for the alumna they most wanted to hear, and then they spent their lunch period learning from her in so many ways. The alumnae who returned are such a great representation of the vast array of careers our girls go on to pursue and enjoy.

The visiting alumnae included: Meredith Ambrose ’02 Associate Producer on NBC’s hit show “The Voice,” and Executive Assistant to TV powerhouse Executive Producer Mark Burnett Ami Bavishi ’03 Account Manager in Investor Relations at Burns McClellan, a life sciences communications firm, founded and run by Lisa Burns ’74

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Upper School students with Dr. Cynthia Bratman ’84 Dr. Cynthia Bratman ’84 Psychologist, Princeton, NJ Megan Brett ’03 Trade Support Specialist at JPMorgan Katryna Carter ’98 Architect with the Heart of America Foundation Sabrina G. Comizzoli ’88 Executive Assistant U.S. Attorney in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey

Alaina Gaines ’08 Teacher and Curriculum and Data Specialist at Brooklyn Arts and Science Elementary School, and Corps Member Advisor for Teach for America Dr. Tara Grabowsky ’88 Chief Medical Officer for Vencore Jamie Ewalt Gray ’94 Research Scientist, New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), and PhD Candidate in Environmental Science & Policy Studies

Left to right, Alumnae Coordinator Kristen Lopez-Watt, Dr. Tara Grabowsky, Alaina Gaines, Amanda Sharp, Katryna Carter, Dr. Annie Sauthoff Soler, Beth Marks, Caroline McCarthy, Joy Robinson Melendez, Melissa Martynenko, Katie Hartl and Alumnae Coordinator Alicia Fruscione Walker at the Alumnae Career Lunches this spring

D

uring Women We Admire Day in the Lower School this spring, the girls were treated to a Skype session with alumna Lauren Morford ’03, a development director of a non-profit aquatics organization in California. A former nationally-ranked swimmer, Lauren shared about how she was able to pursue her dreams and follow her passion for swimming and helping others.

Upper School students with alumna Dr. Tara Grabowsky ’88 Katie Hartl ’07 PhD Student in Mechanical Engineering at Princeton University

Leigh Morlock ’00 Former Creative Director and Founder of basik 855

Melissa Martynenko ’98 Clinical Research Manager at the Icahn School of Medicine, Mount Sinai

Lauren LaTouche Pasko ’01 Registered Nurse, Orthopedic Surgery at Hunterdon Medical Center

Caroline McCarthy ’02 Vice President of Communications and Content at true[X]

Cristina Salmastrelli ’01 Director of the Affordable Art Fair New York City

Joy Robinson Melendez ’89 Program Coordinator of the Infectious Disease Program for Eric B. Chandler Health Center

Amanda Sharp ’08 Owner, The Costume Scene in Trenton, NJ, and Costume Designer

Opposite: Alumnae Coordinators Alicia Fruscione Walker ’98 (far left) and Kristen Lopez-Watt ’90 (far right) with alumnae (L to R) Jamie Ewalt Gray, Ami Bavishi, Lauren LaTouche Pasko, Cristina Salmastrelli, Sabrina Comizzoli, Dr. Cynthia Bratman, Leigh Morlock and Megan Brett

Annie Sauthoff Soler, PhD ’02 Coordinator of Service Learning and Campus Ministry, Stuart

Lauren Morford ’03 speaks with Lower School girls via Skype on Women We Admire Day

Beth Marks Luchs ’84 also joined in for Women We Admire Day to share with the young girls how her teachers at Stuart inspired her to pursue mathematics—a subject in which she previously didn’t believe she could be successful. Beth went on to major in mathematics in college, earn her M.A. in regional science at The University of Pennsylvania and become vice president of both the New York City Economic Development Corporation and the city’s Industrial Development Agency. “I also went on to tell them about what we do in the development office [at Stuart], raising money to fund the renovation of the Lower School and programs like Visiting Author,” Beth added.

The young girls finished the session by asking insightful—and sometimes amusing questions of both of these admirable Stuart women.

CHRISTMAS COCKTAIL PARTY

The beautiful voices of the Tartantones set the tone and welcomed guests to the party. Over 250 members of the Stuart community enjoyed the singing of angels, company of good friends and shared the happiness of the season at Stuart’s annual Christmas Cocktail Party.

Guests at Monte Carlo Magic: Diamonds are Forever were all winners, thanks to hosts Emily and Johan Firmenich, our generous sponsors, Hamilton Jewelers and volunteers. Over 100 guests enjoyed delicious food, games of chance, the sparkle of diamonds and the incomparable company of the Stuart community. Revenue from the event exceeded $100,000! Of that amount, $36,650—derived from a Fund-aNeed auction—will support the upgrade of audio-visual and lighting systems in Cor Unum, to continue to bring the very best to our Stuart Girls and young boys.

Hosts Johan and Emily Firmenich (Stella ’23, Margaux ’26) Pull raffle winners at Monte Carlo Magic: Diamonds are Forever

Right: Patrick McGonigal and Kristen Maldonado (Isabella ’23) Far right: Shahid and Nadia Khan (Zoha ’22)

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Founders Club D I N N E R

The Founders Club Dinner recognizes those who have given $1,963 – to correlate with Stuart’s founding year – or above in the last year. More than 80 guests enjoyed the singing of our youngest students and inspirational remarks reflecting the theme of “What Will You Do?” Middle School Science teacher Melinda Huffman-Schwartz, described her Sacred Heart Network service trip to Uganda.

With support from Stuart and the Network, Melinda brought school supplies, lessons and love to those most eager to learn. Dr. Michael Schwartz, director of STEM programs, talked about his work here and the increasing scope of STEM programs at Stuart. Students Izy Engel ’17 and Roshni Patel ’18 presented on their experience designing a STEM curriculum for Stuart’s Young Women in STEM workshops.

Dr. Fagin recognized the importance of those who came before us and, in answer to the theme, told the crowd that Stuart will continue to embrace the goals of the Sacred Heart and provide the best possible faculty, programs and facilities for our students. Closing the evening, Board Co-Chair Mark Johnson reiterated the appreciation of the Trustees to all who are working to carry out the mission of the school.

What Will You Do? With the help of our donors, the Stuart community continues to: Think, Lead and Change the world!

MSRC Dedication

Amani and Inaya Ahmed (classes of 2015 and 2020 respectively) cut the ceremonial ribbon on the door of the Middle School Resource Center (MSRC) during the Founders Club Dinner.

More than 80 guests attended the event which began with a dedication of the MSRC renovation plaque recognizing the support of Faria Abedin, Dr. Shakil Ahmed and their daughters.

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Photos from the Affairs of the Heart Kick-Off Party

This year, the Affairs of the Heart event series replaces Stuart’s traditional Spring Auction. Parents, faculty and staff are hosting a series of smaller fundraising events to build community and support our students’ Stuart experience. We’ve had an outstanding time celebrating together and we’re not done yet!

Visit stuartschool.org/heart to register today!

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COME JOIN

THE FUN!

DON’T MISS THESE UPCOMING EVENTS: Backyard BBQ and More!

Saturday, May 9, 2015

Mini Maker Fair

Thursday, May 14, 2015 Dr. Patty Fagin joins Hootenanny Hosts at the Affairs of the Heart Kick-Off Party.

From left to right: Amy and Mark Schaefer (Maya ’21), Dr. Patty Fagin, Kristen Thompson (Finley ’22), Diana Sullivan (Haley ’22), Rene and Rusty Johnson (Samantha ’18, Caroline ’22)

Family Lawn Party Thursday, May 28, 2015

Tartan Hootenanny Hoedown at the Sacred Heart Ranch Saturday, May 30, 2015

VISIT stuartschool.org/heart TO REGISTER TODAY! 33

Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage

PAID

Princeton, NJ Permit No. 310

We Reap What We Sow Leaving a gift to Stuart in your will plants seeds that can reap a great harvest for future generations.

Please consider naming Stuart as a beneficiary of a retirement fund or insurance policy, or leaving a gift of real estate to Stuart.

For more information contact Beth Crutcher, director of institutional advancement at 609-921-2330 x279 or visit stuartschool.org/plannedgiving