Summer 2016 Newsletter

Immaculate Heart Academy Newsletter

For Alumnae and Friends of Immaculate Heart Academy Patricia Molloy, President ❖ Jason Schlereth, Principal

Aim for the Stars!

VOL. 32 NO. 2 ❖ SUMMER 2016

Two hundred exceptional young women graduate from IHA.

Megan Twiss’16, Meghan Allen’16, Elizabeth Mathis’16, Christina Kuchenmeister’16, and Megan Ahearn’16 toss their graduation caps in celebration after the 2016 Commencement Exercises.

IHA NEWS

SUMMER 2016

Aim for the Stars!

On Sunday, June 5, 2016, during IHA’s 2016 Commencement Exercises, two hundred young women received their diplomas from Patricia Molloy, principal; Jason Schlereth, vice principal; and Rosemary Fuhrman, Stephanie Abdallah Brodeur’99, and Alice Rogers, assistant principals.

After a beautiful processional, Student Council president, Michelle Garda (University of Maryland), offered the invocation and salutatorian, Jacqueline Rogers (Santa Clara University), gave a heartfelt welcoming address. Jackie said she believes IHA has become a second home, filled with friendship and faith, for the young women who were sitting before her. “Today, my fellow graduates and I are not merely graduating from a high school; we are graduating from a place that has become our home, a place where we have grown into remarkable, confident young women,” she said. “A place that has fostered our faith.

A place filled with extraordinary teachers who come to work every day excited to help each and every student on her journey. Most importantly, we are ending our journey here at Immaculate Heart Academy, ready and poised to make our mark.”

Stephanie Abdallah Brodeur’99 then welcomed commencement speaker, Dr. Laura Daniela Michelis, a graduate and the valedictorian of the IHA Class of 2004. Dr. Michelis studied bioengineering, mathematics, and biology at the University of Pennsylvania. Then she attended Boston University School of Medicine, where she discovered her passion for women’s health. She will begin work at Harvard Vanguard in Boston this October. Dr. Michelis comforted the graduates by telling them IHA has successfully given them the skills they need to undertake the new challenges that college will present and the values that will separate them from the rest.

After graduates from the Class of 2016 received their diplomas and awards, valedictorian Melissa Mendizabal (Yale University), gave a memorable farewell address that touched on the many valuable lessons that IHA has taught her over the years— lessons that “can only be fully appreciated by a

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Megan Pascrell’16, Taylor Kenerson’16, Selamawit Hitscherich’16, Jordan Wilmoth’16, and Allison Guerra’16 pose after the ceremony.

Catholic school girl.” 1. How to navigate traffic in the hallways, 2. Your teachers really are your best friends, and 3. The versatile uses of the plaid kilt: napkins at lunch, blankets in class, umbrellas in the rain, and the occasional cape at pep rallies. She wished her classmates the very best of luck moving forward in their future endeavors.

The Class of 2016 received more than forty million dollars in scholarship awards and will be attending some of the most prestigious colleges and universities in the nation—from Princeton and Duke to Yale, Georgetown, and Purdue. Ten students will be attending Fordham University, eight students are going to the University of Delaware, and seven to Quinnipiac University. Other popular choices included Marist College, Loyola University Maryland, Seton Hall University, Providence College, University of Alabama, and University of South Carolina. Fifty-six members of the graduating class will be attending Catholic institutions.

Twenty-seven students will be attending colleges and universities in New Jersey, one hundred and seventy-two will be attending out-of-state schools, and one will be attending college out of the country at University of Westminster, London. Class of 2016, your IHA family is so proud of the young women you have become, and we know you will flourish in college and beyond.

IHA NEWS

SUMMER 2016

Forty Million Dollars in Scholarships Awarded

Sophie D’Souza’16, Nila Nejad’16, Nika Nejad’16, Ava Cicio’16, Ashley Cha’16, and Katianne Dunay’16 share a moment together with smiles and diplomas!

The following awards were presented at graduation:

The IHA Award—Michelle Garda (University of Maryland) The Academic Excellence Award—Stavroula Spyropoulos (New York University) The Sr. Beatrice Ryan Award—Rebecca Kryceski (University of New England) The Kim Montelaro Memorial Award—Michelle Kaminski (Gettysburg College) The Dorothy and Jack McKenna Memorial Award—Jennifer Wilson (Providence College) The Kathleen Farley Memorial Award—Kyra Campos-Marquetti (Ithaca College) The Fine Arts Award—Ashley Cha (The George Washington University) The Gregory Joseph Villone Award—MaryKate Hall (Iona College) The Herbert C. Oberle Memorial Award—Laura Iobst (University of Scranton) The Jennifer Grace Brawley Scholarship—Allison Klein (Roger Williams University) The KariAnn Dellapenta Award—Allaire Merlini (Nova Southeastern University) The Marie Sellers and Dorothy Savarese Memorial Scholarship—Victoria Duffy (Fordham University) The Jeffrey E. Silver Memorial Scholarship—Emilie Cieslak (Duke University) The Catherine Larkin Award—Aviana Ingui (Montclair State University) The Caren Cavallo Memorial Scholarship—Michaela Bogan (Providence College) The Vincent Herold Award—Jamie del Rosario (Siena College) and Jacqueline Rogers (Santa Clara University) The Marian Award—Dominique Restivo (University of Massachusetts, Amherst) Continued on pages 4, 5, and 24–27 . . .

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IHA NEWS

Class Notes

SUMMER 2016

Scholars All-

Valedictorian

Class of 1978

Mary Carroll recently married Richard Dickon at Saint Joseph Roman Catholic Church in Bogota.

Mary is a registered nurse with the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, Long Term Care, having earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees from St. Peter’s College. She is now working on a doctorate in nursing practice. Rich is a journalist with a master’s degree from Montclair State University.

He has worked for local papers and North Jersey Media Group, and is currently an online contributor with Examiner.com. The two have started a local business, www. njlifeevents.com, and are hoping to grow it over the next few years.

Kathleen Mulligan’76 was maid of honor at their wedding, and IHA attendees included Patricia Mulligan Howell’78; Christina Fochesato Sarkissian’04; Terese Mulligan Besso’82; and IHA faculty member, Kerry Carroll’04.

The Carroll-Dickon Family (yes, he changed his name too!) will continue to live in Teaneck and spend their free time volunteering with Saint Joseph’s church, especially working with the underserved through the food pantry. Mary writes, “I credit IHA with fostering my sense of social justice and encouraging us to be independent thinkers and doers. I struggled with Heritage and Humanities, but was always expected to keep going and achieve.

Quitting the hard classes was not an option. It balanced with my love of the extracurriculars, the plays, Student Council, Halcyon, etc. I’ll never forget the kindnesses when my brother died junior

Top Right— Melissa Mendizabal’16 proudly displays her Class of 2016 valedictorian plaque.

Melissa will be attending Yale University.

Bottom Right— Melissa with her grandmother, Carole Mendizabal Bottom Left— Jacqueline Rogers’16 is not only the salutatorian of the Class of 2016, but she is also one of the recipients of the Vincent Herold Award.

Salutatorian

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IHA NEWS

Dr. Laura Daniela Michelis

Immaculate Heart Academy

Class

of 2004 ❤

Dr. Laura Daniela Michelis’04, commencement speaker, and Michelle Garda’16, recipient of the 2016 IHA Award, meet each other for a photograph in the Sisters’ Chapel.

We welcomed Dr. Laura Daniela Michelis’04 as the commencement speaker at the graduation ceremony for the Class of 2016. Daniela was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina and moved with her family to the United States in 1990. She grew up in Lyndhurst with her parents, John and Sandra Michelis, and younger sister, Belen Michelis, who attended IHA from 2002–2006. While at IHA, Daniela was a member of the varsity volleyball team, Science Club, and president of the National Honor Society. Daniela, the valedictorian for her graduating Class of 2004, studied bioengineering, mathematics, and biology at University of Pennsylvania and continued on to Boston University School of Medicine.

While in college, Daniela worked at a genetics lab at the Children’s Hospital of Pennsylvania, which sparked her interest in a career in medicine. During her third year rotations at Boston University School of Medicine, she enjoyed her OB/GYN rotation and became very interested in women’s health. Daniela decided to pursue an OB/GYN residency program and ultimately continued her training at Boston Medical Center. “While in residency, I had the opportunity to work and connect with a very diverse, underserved patient population and used my native Spanish for a large Latina population in my personal clinic,” Daniela explained. “I was also able to participate in a number of clinical research studies and book chapter publications.”

During residency, Daniela married her now husband, Brian Cohen, whom she met in college. The couple presently resides in Cambridge, Massachusetts and Daniela will be starting a new job for Harvard Vanguard in Boston in October.

We thank Daniela for sharing with our graduates her expertise and advice.

It was a pleasure to have her grace the halls of IHA once again.

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SUMMER 2016

Class Notes year. My four years there had such a deep influence on my life, although it took a while for me to acknowledge it! It is thirty-five years coming, but thank you to the IHA community.”

Class of 1994

Claudia Bertolino Atkinson was selected by St. Francis Food Pantries & Shelters as a 2016 Honoree and the Guest of Honor for this year’s annual Women of Valor Awards Tea. The Tea was held at the Waldorf Astoria on July 28, 2016. Claudia is the managing director of Citco Fund Services (USA) Inc. Claudia writes, “I’ve become familiar with the organization in the last five years through their many volunteer and fundraising opportunities, and have seen firsthand the good they do to reach and support the less fortunate in so many commendable ways. St. Francis Food Pantries and Shelters was established to remedy the physical and emotional hunger of the poor and needy in a dignified and supportive manner. They do so by taking a comprehensive approach in providing and supporting services that alleviate not only hunger, but the structural causes of hunger.”

Class of 1997

Donna Borak recently joined The Wall Street Journal’s Washington Bureau in March as a reporter covering the intersection of Wall Street and the 2016 presidential election. Prior to her arrival there, she was one of twelve U.S. journalists selected for a highly competitive, ten-month Continues on page 6

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IHA NEWS

SUMMER 2016

Scene around IHA . . .

Class Notes

At Left—Joseph Savaterri (Bergen Catholic’16), Jenna Lucarello’17, and MaryKate Hall’16 show off their characters’ quirky personalities in IHA’s spring production of Arsenic & Old Lace.

fellowship at Stanford University.

She lives in Washington, D.C.

Class of 1999

A play, a prom,

some spirit,

Stephanie Abdallah Brodeur, who has worked at Immaculate Heart Academy for the past twelve years, has been hired as principal of St. Joseph Hill Academy in Staten Island. Stephanie writes, “I am sad to leave the comfort and support of the IHA community, but I am excited to take on the challenges that await me in my new role.

IHA has an amazing community of people. We have great parents, students, faculty, and staff. They make IHA what it is, and I will miss that the most. This new opportunity would have never been possible if not for the ongoing support and mentoring I received from the experienced faculty and staff employed at IHA. Thank you.”

Class of 2001

Kerry Walsh Stockwell writes, “Hello from New Orleans! Hope all is well at IHA. I graduated from Tulane in 2005 and after working in politics/government in Washington, D.C. for eight years, my husband, Jeremy, got a job offer in the technology consulting industry in New Orleans. We were thrilled to move and start our family (we have a three-year-old son, Teddy). I initially worked in politics in Louisiana, but 2016 seemed like an excellent time to transition to a new field. I recently started working at Tulane University in the office of the President, Mike Fitts. I want to invite any IHA ladies visiting New Orleans to please reach out when they’re in town.

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Julie Kim’16 and her prom date, Louis Kang of West Windsor Plainsboro High School South’16, enjoy IHA Senior Prom.

Natalie Christopoul’18 and Rebecca Jarrett’18 have a blast taking polaroids at Sophomore Spirit Day.

and academic success!

Sarah McLoughlin’18, Megan Rice’18, and Sarah Horne’18 receive Certificates of Honor at the Honors Convocation.

Read more about it on page 19.

IHA NEWS

SUMMER 2016

Traveling P laid

From Sarasota to Bradenton-

Class Notes I’m always happy to give restaurant recommendations and would love to see a friendly face from home.

And if you’re considering Tulane for college, I’d love to say hello and show you around Tulane.”

Class of 2004

Ashley Kahler Edwards and her husband, Rob, welcomed Luke Joseph Edwards to the world on June 1, 2016.

Four years ago, IHA alumnae from the mid-west coast of Florida gathered at the home of Diane Stabile’70 in Sarasota for a Traveling Plaid event. The group gathered again for an informal dinner at Pier 22 in Bradenton this summer. From left to right are Mari Wetter’66, Erin Elliott French’00, Diane Stabile’70, Beth DiCiancia Garrigan’76, Elaine Grego Caldwell’71, Laura Caldarola Macione’71, Margee Behrends’75, Danielle Garrigan’06, and Maureen O’Shea Powell’80.

and Hoboken too!

The Class of 2000 was well represented at the Hoboken Traveling Plaid reunion held at Cadillac Cantina on June 22, 2016. From left to right are Beth Mold Proscia’00, Jackie Riva Vaccaro’00, and Nicole Yorio Jurick’00.

Class of 2006

Katherine Norton married Mark Wentworth on June 26, 2016.

The Rev. Msgr. Kenneth Lasch officiated at the Fordham University Church in the Bronx. A reception at The New York Botanical Garden followed the ceremony. The bride is the pastry chef for the Boonville Hotel, in Boonville, California. She is a graduate of Georgetown University. The groom is the founder and proprietor of the Wentworth Vineyard and Ranch, LLC, in Elk, California, raising Scottish Highland cattle and organically farmed pinot noir grapes. He is a graduate of the University of St. Andrews, Fife, Scotland. The couple met in January 2015 in Mendocino County, California at Table 128 Restaurant at the Boonville Hotel, where the groom was dining with his parents. He was smitten by the pastries and the pastry chef.

Class of 2007

Christine Williams, a senior accountant at Fox News, became engaged to Russell Matthews. A June 2017 wedding is planned.

Continues on page 8

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IHA NEWS

SUMMER 2016

Class Notes

Soaring Eagle Award

Class of 2011

Elizabeth Anzevino received a master’s degree in special education and was offered a teaching position with the Little Falls School District.

Class of 2012

Elizabeth Barry graduated from The Catholic University of America in May with a Bachelor of Social Work degree with honors. She has been named a Pope Francis Scholar and will be an Advanced Standing student in Catholic University’s Masters of Social Work program. As a Pope Francis Scholar, Elizabeth will conduct her field internship at The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Migration and Refugee Services Office, and has received a full scholarship for her graduate education.

Kristina Bruzzesi graduated from Holy Name Hospital School of Nursing in June as an RN and has been accepted into Villanova University’s RN-BSN program.

She recently transitioned into an RN position at HackensackUMC. “After six years of service as an EMT, I’m now the vice president of the Saddle Brook Ambulance Corps and also hold an officer position on the New Jersey State First Aid Council 24th District. I have received two HackensackUMC EMS Excellence Awards as well as a Life Save Award and a CPR Save Award. IHA not only prepared me for college but also for life itself. Whenever I was faced with a challenge, I recalled my days at IHA and used the confidence that was instilled to find a speedy resolution. I’m so thankful for all of the wonderful staff members at Continues on page 17

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Quarter 4 recipients include, standing, left to right, Valeria Oshepkova’17 (Art), Tinamarie Dadic’19 (English), Emma Taff’19 (Religion), Sofia Hanson’18 (World Language), Tess Szydlik’18 (Science), Cailey Muraca’17 (Communications), and Casey Conniff’19 (Mathematics). Seated, left to right, are Kaitlyn Brown’19 (Technology), Milena Bozovic’17 (Physical Education), and Natalie Deutsch’17 (Social Studies).

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This season, the varsity softball team members played every game for Anthony LaRezza, their coach who passed away in February. The team honored him by warming up in custom-made shirts before every game.

IHA NEWS

SUMMER 2016

The Blue Eagle Sports Report For Love of LaRezza

The IHA varsity softball team was named the BCWCA Bergen County Team Champions.

The team was so pleased to honor the memory of the late IHA softball coach, Anthony LaRezza, with an impressive win.

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IHA NEWS

SUMMER 2016

Spring Sports Wrap-up Softball

by John Downey, Athletic Director

This season was an emotional roller coaster for IHA varsity softball after losing head coach, Anthony LaRezza, in February. Teammates worked hard with coach, Diana Fasano, to get through the loss, and wanted to honor him in a way he would appreciate—by winning. All players from the 2015 state championship team returned, leading the varsity team to a tie for first place in the Big North United Division, first place in Bergen County, first place in New Jersey, and a number thirteen ranking by USA Today High School Sports. The junior varsity softball team went undefeated, beating most teams by the ten-run rule.

The J.V. team’s most impressive accomplishment was out-scoring its opponents 161–2.

The Record All-North Jersey Honors First-Team Emilie Cieslak’16, Reese Guevarra’17, and Olivia Sprofera’17

Big North All-League Honors First-Team Emilie Cieslak’16, Taylor Kenerson’16, Reese Guevarra’17, Reagan Jones’17, and Olivia Sprofera’17

Second-Team Taylor Kenerson’16

Second-Team Victoria Casey’16, Sarah Siclari’16, and Sonia Sharma’17 Honorable Mention Sarah Browning’16 and Taylor Gallagher’16 BCWCA All-County Honors First-Team Emilie Cieslak’16, Taylor Kenerson’16, Reese Guevarra’17, and Olivia Sprofera’17 Second-Team Reagan Jones’17 Third-Team Taylor Gallagher’16 BCWCA Coach of the Year Diana Fasano’00

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Second-Team Taylor Kenerson’16 The Record Team of the Year The Star-Ledger All-State Honors First-Team Emilie Cieslak’16, Reese Guevarra’17, and Olivia Sprofera’17

The Star-Ledger All-Non-Public Honors First-Team Emilie Cieslak’16, Taylor Kenerson’16, Reese Guevarra’17, and Olivia Sprofera’17 Second-Team Reagan Jones’17 Third-Team Taylor Gallagher’16 The Star-Ledger Hitter of the Year Reese Guevarra’17 The Star-Ledger Team of the Year NFCA All-East Region Honors First-Team Emilie Cieslak’16, Taylor Kenerson’16, Reese Guevarra’17, and Olivia Sprofera’17 NFCA All-American Honors Second-Team Reese Guevarra’17 and Olivia Sprofera’17

IHA NEWS

SUMMER 2016

Spring Track

The spring track and field team had a tremendous season, going 3–0 in dual meet competition. The team also won the County Relays and Big North League Championships for the first time in six years, and the County Group Championship for the first time since 2011. The 4x100 broke the IHA school record four times, and several girls cracked the Top 10 All-Time list. The spring track team came in second place at the state sectional meet, sixth place at the state group meet, first at the Comet Relays, and third at the Pirate Relays.

Big North All-League Honors First-Team Megan Swords’16, Julie Weismiller’16, Christian Rasnake’17, Giavanna Tabbachino’17, and Kristen Valentine’18 Second-Team Meaghan Ralph’16, Regine Thimothee’17, Julia Morris’18, Colette Petric’18, Fiona Ralph’18, Victoria Sheldon’18, and Hailey Emde’19 Honorable Mention Mary Hughes’18

Angeanette Russert’16 triple jumps at a dual meet against Paramus Catholic High School.

BCWCA All-County Honors First-Team Christian Rasnake’17 Third-Team Fiona Ralph’18 and Kristen Valentine’18 The Record All-North Jersey Honors Second-Team Christian Rasnake’17 The Star-Ledger All-State Honors Third-Team Megan Swords’16 and Christian Rasnake’17

Wrap-up continues on pages 12 and 13.

Bailey Devaney’17 pole vaults at the League of Champions.

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IHA NEWS

SUMMER 2016

The IHA lacrosse team raised money to support

autism awareness.

Way to go, girls!

Diana DeVita’17 cradles the ball downfield against Oak Knoll.

Lacrosse

The varsity lacrosse team had strong wins over Mendham, West Essex, Glen Ridge, Kent Place, and Saddle River Day. During the team’s annual Autism Awareness Day, IHA Lacrosse raised money to support The Epic School and invited Glen Rock and Pequannack to join. The team had eleven seniors graduate, eight of whom will continue to play at the collegiate level. The team had a great season, placing second in the County and fourth in the League. The J.V. lacrosse team faced a tough battle in the Stars and Stripes Division, but finished the 2016 season with an impressive record of seven wins, three ties, and three losses.

Stars and Stripes All-League Honors First-Team Jennifer Mistretta’16 and Christine Weber’16 Second-Team Sophie Rosenzweig’16 and Kathryn Rice’17 Honorable Mention Diana DeVita’17

BCWCA All-County Honors First-Team Sophie Rosenzweig’16, Jennifer Mistretta’16, and Kathryn Rice’17 Second-Team Christine Weber’16 Honorable Mention Diana DeVita’17 The Record All-North Jersey Honors First-Team Sophie Rosenzweig’16 Second-Team Jennifer Mistretta’16 and Christine Weber’16 The Star-Ledger All-Group Honors Second-Team Christine Weber’16 Third-Team Kathryn Rice’17

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IHA NEWS

SUMMER 2016

Golf

Senior leadership met freshman talent to carry the golf team through an outstanding season. The Blue Eagles were named Big North Tournament champions, as well as the Bergen County Tournament champions.

The team, led by senior captains Ashley Rose’16, Hayley Rieman’16, and Kelly Feehan’16, placed third in the NJSIAA North Sectional Tournament and sixth in the NJSIAA State Tournament. IHA Golf was ranked first in North Jersey, sixth in the state, and named “Team of the Year” by The Record. Additionally, this year’s team broke the school match record with an all-time low total score of one hundred sixty-six against Northern Valley Old Tappan.

Big North All-League Honors First-Team Patricia Durante’19, Regina Garvey’19, and Charlotte Stanton’19 Second-Team Hayley Rieman’16 and Ashley Rose’16 Honorable Mention Kelly Feehan’16 and Kelly Conheeney’17 BCWCA All-County Honors First-Team Regina Garvey’19 and Charlotte Stanton’19

Congratulations, Congratulations,

Hayley Rieman’16 takes a shot from the bunker.

Honorable Mention Patricia Durante’19 The Record All-North Jersey Honors First-Team Regina Garvey’19 Second-Team Charlotte Stanton’19 The Record Team of the Year

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CoachPrincipal-

Jason Schlereth

Jason Schlereth poses with the 2015–16 IHA swim team at a special tribute dinner held in his honor. He coached IHA swimming for eleven years and Bergen Catholic swimming for seven years before stepping down to focus on his new role as principal of Immaculate Heart Academy.

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IHA NEWS

Service Awards

Alanna Fullerton’17, Lauren Costabile’17, and Carlie Condemi’17 are honored with certificates at the Service Awards.

IHA has always prided itself on educating young women with a commitment to living the Gospel message in the twenty-first century. Year after year, our students spend countless hours giving of their time and talent at the service of the most vulnerable members of our society. The young women at IHA seem to naturally possess a heart for serving those on the margins.

On May 3, 2016, we held a special Service Awards Ceremony and Reception to recognize students who have gone above and beyond in their Christian and community service. This year, one hundred eleven students won the Presidential Volunteer Service Award, almost doubling last year’s recipient number!

This special award from President Barack Obama, complete with a signed letter and medal, annually honors teens, young adults, and adults who demonstrate substantial service to their own community.

Aviana Ingui’16 was awarded a special honor for earning the most service hours in the school—more than seven hundred. Additionally, the Spirit of Service Award was given to students who, by their very nature, are a model for service and leadership at IHA. Spirit of Service Award Recipients Shannon Gleba’17 Rebecca Nadler’19 Jamie del Rosario’16 Emily Ash’19 Sophie D’Souza’16 Victoria Muller’18 Rebecca DeRosa’16 Tess Szydlik’18 Milena Bozovic’17

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SUMMER 2016

Campus Improvements

As we continually strive to remain one of the most modernized and appealing high school campuses in the area, we have continued to update the IHA building and grounds this summer.

On our Field Turf™ field, we have installed two new sections of white and navy blue bleachers for our sports fans to enjoy. This special project was completed with funds raised at the 2016 Blue Eagle Athletics Beefsteak. Additionally, the four tennis courts have been re-done, now boasting our school colors—navy and light blue.

We have also installed a WeatherBug® Lightning Detection and Alerting System. This high-tech system warns us of any impending storms, keeping our students, faculty, parents, and visitors safe when they are at IHA.

Parent Volunteer Reception

On May 23, 2016, we held a Parent Volunteer Mass & Reception to thank all of our wonderful parents and members of the IHA Parents’ Club who volunteer their time and talent. Maryann Nelson P’17, second vice president of the Parents’ Club, assisted in presenting gifts to outgoing board members, Meg Barry’83 P’16, vice president; Linda Weismiller P’16, treasurer; and Maryann Trimm P’13,’16, hospitality co-chair. Thank you for your service, ladies, and we wish you nothing but the best.

Linda Weismiller P’16, Maryann Trimm P’13,’16, and Meg Barry’83 P’16 have come to the end of their time on the IHA Parents’ Club board.

IHA NEWS

SUMMER 2016

New Faculty for 2016-2017

Eleven new faculty and staff members will be joining the Immaculate Heart Academy community for the new academic year. We welcome Mr. Garrett Eastlake (B.S. William Paterson University, M.A. University of St. Mary, Principal’s Certification and M.A. Caldwell College) as our director of institutional advancement.

Mr. Eastlake is no stranger to IHA, as he is married to alumna, Angela Pagano Eastlake’93. We also welcome Ms. Kathryn LaForgia (B.A. Dartmouth College, M.A. Columbia University, M.A. New York University, M.S. Canisius College) as the assistant director of curriculum and instruction and music teacher. Mrs. Corinne Fritzky (B.S. Hofstra University, M.S. Mercy College, NJ/NY State School Counselor Certification) will take on the brand new role of college counselor, and Ms. Alexis Fatigati’07 (B.S. Providence College, M.B.A. Seton Hall University) is bringing her expertise and love of her Alma Mater to the position of director of admissions.

Mrs. Theresa Seymour Dolan’95 (B.S.E. Villanova University, M.S.E.E. Stevens Institute of Technology) will be teaching technology and engineering, and Ms. Kelly Duby Dunham’03 (B.S. Ramapo College) and Mrs. Helen DeMartini (B.S. Hofstra University, M.S.Ed. CUNY College of Staten Island) will be joining the Science Department. Ms. Lia Kunnapas’09 (B.A. Colgate University) will be teaching history, and Mrs. Donna Sandt (B.A. University of Scranton) and Ms. Nicole Saldarriaga’12 (B.A. Sarah Lawrence College) will be teaching English. We also welcome Mr. Philip Bernardi (B.A., M.A. Montclair State) as the production moderator and communications teacher.

We look forward to a successful year ahead with the addition of our new faculty and staff members.

Welcome, everyone!

Three Consultative Board Members We say farewell and thank you to three members of the IHA Consultative Board who have been members since its inception in 2009. From left to right are Linda Murphy Triolo’73, board member emeritus and past chairperson; Marilyn Zdobinski, board member emeritus and past chairperson; Patricia Molloy, IHA principal; Valerie Gradel Keenan’76, IHA Consultative Board chairperson; and Mary Ellen Dooley Nye’87, board member emeritus.

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IHA NEWS

SUMMER 2016

IHA Summit Sensations!

Academic Superstars at their Peak The following students have been named Distinguished Scholars by earning an average of 95 or better for the fourth quarter.

Congratulations!

Freshmen Isabelle Arevalo Josie Ascione Emily Ash Julia Barbieri Victoria Bertussi Erin Brockmeier Kaitlyn Brown Courtney Caccamo Gabrielle Cavada Myra Chaudhry Casey Conniff Katalina deLeon Courtney Driscoll Katrina Fett Regina Garvey Bernadette Goratowski Shannon Jordan Julia Lauk Kirstin McGeary Peyton Mulligan Rebecca Nadler Olivia Pavin Alessandra Priolo Alessia Ruggiero Alexandra Stadler Charlotte Stanton Emma Taff

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Sophomores Kelsey Agnew Lauren Allen Caroline Bennett Julia Bertussi Caroline DePhillips Kate Della Pietra Heather Farrell Janella Flores Emma Hammer Abigail Heffernan Morgan Honor Cassandra Mitsinikos Dana Isabelle Padilla Sophia Paladino Andrea Petrow Theresa Szydlik Erica Timpanaro Kaela Wong Juniors Megan Brockmeier Kimberly Caccamo Sofia Ciprian Fiona Duffin Sophia Hernandez Angelina Maleska Riley Maloney

Juniors continued Cayla Moore Lily Polster Sienna Scian Giavanna Tabbachino Cara Valencia Seniors Melissa Beale Bridget Beyer Michaela Bogan Kerry Flynn Alexandra Larson Sabrina Lopez Ashley Marino Elizabeth Mathis Brianna McCabe Rosemary Pawloski Meaghan Ralph Jacqueline Rogers Sophie Rosenzweig Lexi Scala Alara Siegel Morgan Spencer Danielle Touma Alexa Valentin Julie Weismiller Katherine Whale

IHA NEWS

SUMMER 2016

Fellow IHA Alumnae tackle Medical School

Together

Everywhere you go, you’ll always find an IHA girl. Kirsten Calica’07 and Alessandra Santamaria’09 found each other at St. George’s University School of Medicine in Grenada, West Indies.

Alessandra Santamaria’09 and Kirsten Calica’07 are both currently enrolled in St. George’s University School of Medicine, finishing up their third year doing clinical rotations at Trinitas Regional Medical Center in Elizabeth. They took the STEP2CS and STEP2CK tests this summer, as part of the United States Medical Licensure Examination, and their results are due back in the fall. The alumnae said it was relieving to find an IHA sister in the “real world.”

“Medical school has had its fair share of good days and bad, but having the opportunity to do all of our overnight calls with a fellow IHA-er has definitely made this arduous journey much more enjoyable,” Kirsten said. “As we approach our last year of medical school, I will be applying for a residency in anesthesia or internal medicine, and Alessandra will be applying for a residency in psychiatry or pediatrics.”

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Is Med School in your Future?

We invite everyone in the IHA community to enter for a chance to win the Immaculate Heart Academy Education Raffle! This year’s prize is valued at $14,800 toward tuition.

Please note: you do not have to use the Education Raffle winnings at IHA. If the winner does not have a daughter here, the prize can be applied to the tuition at a high school or college of your choice for the 2017–18 school year.

The winning ticket will be drawn at:

IHA’s Christmas Concert December 14, 2016

Winner need not be present. Tickets are $100.

Only four hundred tickets will be sold, so don’t miss out!

Class Notes IHA and I attribute my success to their hard work and dedication. No matter where I end up in life, I will always be proud to be a Blue Eagle and I cannot wait to send my future daughters there.”

Alexandra Pfleging writes, “I am not exaggerating when I say that IHA over-prepared me for college.

What I learned at IHA has continued to help me throughout my college years and young adult life, and I will be forever grateful for my years at IHA. I can still remember during my junior or senior year during an opening school year liturgy when we were asked to go home and thank our parents for a Catholic school education. I have never forgotten that, and continue to thank my parents for the gift they gave me.

I graduated Fordham University in May, having completed masters courses in education, and will be continuing my pursuit of a master’s degree in education at St. Peter’s in Jersey City.”

Abigail Holmes writes, “I have just graduated from Rowan University. In October of 2015, I was offered a full time position with PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), one of the big four accounting firms. Starting October 2016, I will begin my career in PwC’s Manhattan office, working in the investment management group of the tax department. Until then, I will be studying and sitting for the CPA exams.”

Laura Klein writes, “I recently graduated from Elizabethtown College in Lancaster, Pennsylvania and began working for Fluent, LLC in New York City on June 6, 2016. Fluent is a digital marketing company located in the Financial District. I work in the Compliance Continues on page 18

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IHA NEWS

SUMMER 2016

Class Notes

Department, which is responsible for regulating the advertisements our company and vendors create.”

Minjee Kong writes, “On May 15, 2016, I graduated from The George Washington University with a B.B.A. in marketing. The commencement ceremony took place in front of the Washington Monument right on the National Mall! It was truly an amazing, once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Now that the best four years of my life have flown by, I’ve decided to be a bit ambitious and try to start my very own events and marketing consulting firm. I plan to consult small businesses and specialize in social media and digital marketing, while also acting as an event planner on the side. So far, I have two clients: a coffee shop/cafe called Kudo Society, and a nail salon called Elegant Nails. I truly appreciate the family I have come to obtain upon attending IHA.” Esther Kim writes, “I graduated from Fordham University’s Gabelli School of Business with a bachelor’s degree in business administration with concentrations in marketing and communications & media management. I was also commissioned into the United States Army on May 20, 2016. I am recognized as a Distinguished Military Graduate, which means I am in the top twenty percent of the nation in my year group of about five thousand. I also received an award from General Jack Keane as the top cadet in the Reserves Officer Training Corps program, where there are twenty-two of us.

In addition, I am one of thirteen females going into the Armor branch. This past December, the Secretary of Defense opened Continues on page 20

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Outstanding Educators Ms. Linda Chelotti’76 and Mrs. Sharon Tassely Mistretta’75

IHA teachers, Mrs. Sharon Tassely Mistretta’75 and Ms. Linda Chelotti’76, were chosen out of more than two hundred nominees in The Record newspaper’s Outstanding Educators contest. The two incredible faculty members were nominated by students as being among the best in their respective disciplines of teaching.

There were eight winners in total recognized in a special section of The Record newspaper on Sunday, June 12, 2016 and honored at a breakfast at Ramapo College of New Jersey on Monday, June 13, 2016.

Mrs. Mistretta, nominated by student Rebecca Coronel’16, was chosen as the winner of the Computer, Technology, or Library Resources category. She teaches computer and technology classes at IHA, and also serves as moderator of the Robotics and Applied Engineering clubs. In The Record article written about her, Mrs. Mistretta said fostering a “can-do” attitude in students is the benchmark of her success as a teacher.

Mistretta says she hopes her students are confident enough “to realize their innate talents in being producers rather than consumers of technology.” Although Coronel is far from embarking on a career, she gives Mistretta high marks as an educator and as an individual. “She is a wonderful teacher and an overall amazing person,” said Coronel.

Ms. Chelotti, history teacher and lacrosse coach at IHA, was nominated by Sofia Ciprian’17 for the Civics, History, or Social Studies category. The Record article states that Ms. Chelotti “revels in the opportunity to grow the minds and hearts of young women.” Ciprian wrote, “Ms. Chelotti has been a very important teacher for my IHA education because she taught me to think critically.”

Chelotti is passionate about the subject of history, too. “That’s music to my ears,” when her students tell her they used to hate history and now they love it.

“I want history to be fun, exciting, interesting.”

Additionally, Dr. Maura Tuite, a member of IHA’s Class of 1981, was nominated in the Special Education/Resource Teaching category for her role as a counselor at Teaneck High School. Thank you to Dr. Brian Chinni, CEO & Founder of The Madison Institute, keynote speaker at The Record Outstanding Educators Awards Celebration & Breakfast. We also thank TMI Education and Ramapo College of New Jersey, contest sponsors, and The Record for recognizing our exceptional teachers.

IHA NEWS

SUMMER 2016

Honors Convocation

On June 6, 2016, members of the sophomore, junior, and senior classes were awarded certificates for their academic achievements at this year’s Honors Convocation. Megan Brockmeier’17, president of the National Honor Society, welcomed students and guests. “Throughout the year,” Megan announced to the crowd, “you have been engaged in your studies, pursued understanding, and gone the extra mile to achieve success at such a high level that you have received the honor of being here tonight.”

Stephanie Abdallah Brodeur’99, assistant principal of academics and technology, presented certificates to the thirty-four students who made Distinguished Honors by earning averages of 95% or better, and numerous students who earned Honors by earning averages of 90% or better in each of the first three marking periods in the 2015–16 school year.

Additional awards included: St. Michael’s College Book Award for Academic Achievement with a Social Conscience— Sienna Scian’17 The George Washington University School of Engineering and Applied Science Medal— Cara Valencia’17 University of Rochester’s Frederick Douglass and Susan B. Anthony Award— Kimberly Caccamo’17 University of Rochester’s Bausch and Lomb Honorary Science Award—Christine Jacob’17 University of Rochester’s Xerox Award— Simona Riccardi’17 University of Rochester’s George Eastman Young Leaders Award—Giavanna Tabbachino’17 Fairfield University Book Award— Riley Maloney’17 Mount Holyoke College Book Award— Lily Polster’17 Saint Anselm College Book Award— Sophia Hernandez’17 Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Medalist Award—Reagan Stroka’17

Recognizes Achievement

United States Military Academy at West Point’s Dwight D. Eisenhower Leadership Award— Giavanna Tabbachino’17 Springfield College Book Award— Shannon Gleba’17 Regis College Book Award— Kathleen Martin’17 Chatham University Rachel Carson Book Award—Jillian Morgan’17 St. Lawrence University Book Award— Kristina Sheehy’17 Denison University Book Award— Brittany Polizzi’17 Lawrence Technological Award for Excellence in Science and Technology— Reagan Stroka’17 Wells College 21st Century Leadership Award— Catherine O’Toole’17 Sage College Student Sage Scholar Award— Fida Mouawad’17 Congress of Future Science and Technology Leaders NJ Delegate—Emma Walsh’17 Promising Young Scientist Award— Cassandra Mitsinikos’18 At the Honors Convocation, we also held a special St. Brigid Society induction ceremony for the freshman students who have achieved Distinguished Honors for at least two of the three marking periods for the 2015–16 school year. Those students were:

Emily Ash’19 Erin Brockmeier’19 Tinamarie Dadic’19 Katalina DeLeon’19 Julia Lauk’19 Peyton Mulligan’19 Olivia Pavin’19 Alessia Ruggiero’19 Emma Taff’19

Congratulations, ladies!

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IHA NEWS

Class Notes

all closed combat jobs, Infantry and Armor, to women. I hope everyone at IHA is doing well. I will surely visit my old teachers before I blaze a trail down at Fort Benning, Georgia!”

Regan Cronin writes, “Since graduating IHA, I have attended Seton Hall University as an undergraduate nursing major.

Because I transferred to Seton Hall, I finished my undergraduate classes this past August 2016.

I plan on pursuing a career as a registered nurse and look forward to obtaining my license after classes are completed. I am presently working as a Patient Care Technician at Overlook Medical Center on their orthopedics unit, and would like to continue to work with orthopedics patients as well as medical-surgical patients in the future.”

Lucy Lohrmann writes, “I graduated magna cum laude from the Kogod School of Business at American University in Washington, D.C. in December 2015. I studied international business and held eight different internships and teaching assistant positions during my seven semesters in college. I was hired as a client analyst two months before graduation by Cambridge Associates in Arlington, Virginia.

It is one of the nation’s top investment advisory firms for foundations, endowments, and private wealth. I love the work I do and truly believe it is a crucial foot-in-the-door to a long, and I hope successful, career in finance.

I became engaged to Joshua Kaib of Pittsburgh on October 25, 2015.

We met as students at American University in 2012, and were

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SUMMER 2016

In Memoriam Your prayers are requested for the following members of the Immaculate Heart Academy community who died recently: @ Maureen Roche Corry, Class of 1983, died on May 22, 2016. @ Louis Torsello, father of Carolyn Torsello Barbara’65, died on February 22, 2015. @ Ann Ferrare, mother of Karen Ferrare’68, died on January 26, 2016. @ Louis Torsello, Jr., brother of Carolyn Torsello Barbara’65, died on April 12, 2016. @ Rocco Chirico, father of Karen Chirico Vogelstein’75 and Diana Chirico’66, died on April 22, 2016. @ Mark Melli, husband of Jan Gelewski Melli’73, died on April 30, 2016. @ Steven Horowitz, husband of Elise Moyse Horowitz’69, died on May 3, 2016. @ James Morriss, husband of former faculty member, Alix Morriss, and father of Patricia Morriss Martini’81, died on May 5, 2016. @ Ida Roche, mother of Deborah Roche’76 and grandmother of Mariah RocheMcConnell’10 and Caitlin Roche’15, died on May 7, 2016. @ John Kavanagh, former IHA faculty member, died on May 8, 2016. @ Mary Cox, mother of Jeanne Cox’72 and former student, Lorraine Cox, died on May 17, 2016. @ James Rigoli, husband of Keriann Kroth Rigoli’91, died on May 18, 2016.

IHA NEWS @ Steve Brawley, brother of Mary Brawley Fuat’67, the late Jennifer Brawley’83, and Pamela Brawley Trottier’86; and uncle of Wendi Plescia Heffernan’94, died on May 22, 2016. @ Judith D’Ambrosio, mother of Jessica D’Ambrosio’98 and Juliette D’Ambrosio’09, died on June 3, 2016. @ Marion Alcaro, grandmother of Mary Alcaro’08, former faculty member, and Annamaria Alcaro’13, died on July 4, 2016. @ Lucy Uzzi, mother of Roseann Karczewski Fatigati’82 and grandmother of Alexis Fatigati’07, staff member, died on June 5, 2016. @ Joseph Sullivan, father of Diane Sullivan Kellogg’90 and grandfather of Audrey Kellogg’20, died on June 5, 2106. @ Ann Gibbs, mother of Barbara Gibbs Curtin Miles’66, died on June 21, 2016. @ Sr. Consuelo Grainger, former IHA faculty member and aunt of Marjorie (Aubrey) Grainger Baetti’65, died on July 3, 2016. @ Mary Holt Moore, grandmother of Maureen McNulty, faculty member, died on July 13, 2016. @ Frances C. Marciante, mother of Carla Marciante Householder’72, died on July 15, 2016 @ Patrick White, father of Meghan White’16, died on July 22, 2016. @ Justin Smith, son of the late Colleen McCoy Smith’78, died on July 22, 2016. @ Guy Blehl, brother of Mary Blehl Walsh’65 and Kathleen Blehl’14, died on July 27, 2016. @ Brian Roche, brother of Caitlin Roche’15, cousin of Mariah Roche McConnel’11, and nephew of Deborah Roche’76, died on August 13, 2016

SUMMER 2016

Class Notes

married in Washington, D.C. on July 30, 2016. I’m very proud of all that I’ve accomplished since I left the halls of IHA four years ago, but I owe it all to my top-notch education there that made me the woman I am today. While my academic workload was rigorous in high school, it helped me to be more than prepared for the intense academic expectations college can bring. I truly believe that going to a single-sex high school allowed me to never fear about speaking up in college classroom discussions and meeting rooms alike, for fear of what others would think.

IHA’s Catholic-focused curriculum helped me to seek the good in everything I do, trust in God’s plan always, and find a life partner with whom I can grow closer with in my faith. I can say without a doubt that I have found that in Josh. I can’t thank you enough for what IHA has done for not only me, but the thousands of girls that have also passed through the halls. You should be so proud that every year, the school sends more than one hundred young women into the world to be the next generation of women leaders. I am truly thankful that I can be one of them too.”

Lucy Reynoso graduated magna cum laude from Providence College on May 15, 2016. In August 2016, she began law school at New York Law School in New York City.

“I am so excited and cannot wait for this new chapter in my life!”

Lucy said.

Alexandra Haracz writes, “I graduated with a B.E. in electrical engineering with a minor in pre-law from Stevens Institute of Technology and moved to San Jose, California in June to work as Continues on page 23

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IHA NEWS

SUMMER 2016

Go Green teams with Josephine’s Garden Members of the Go Green club donate art supplies to Heidi Rispoli for the children that spend time at Josephine’s Garden. Top row, left to right, are Josephine’s mother, Heidi Rispoli; Tori Buckman’18; Kristina Pestic’18; Marielle Riccardelli’18; and Ms. Lauren Fitzgerald, science teacher and Go Green moderator. Bottom row, left to right, are Julia DiRico’18, Giuliana Zaza’18, and Jillian Pellegrino’18.

IHA’s Go Green club had a busy spring giving generously to our local community. In addition to planting a beautiful butterfly garden on school grounds, Go Green members also teamed up with Josephine’s Garden, an interactive garden on the rooftop of Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital Wing at Hackensack University Medical Center.

Josephine’s Garden was named for Josephine Rispoli, a six-year-old girl diagnosed with a rare, malignant, high-grade brain tumor on September 19, 2010. After a yearlong battle that included numerous surgeries, five rounds of high-dose chemotherapy, two auto-stem cell transplants, and six weeks of daily spinal and cranial radiation, Josephine lost her fight on October 23, 2011. Throughout it all, enduring treatment for more than two hundred fifty inpatient days at the Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital, she never once lost her fighting spirit.

The Josephine’s Garden Fund benefits pediatric oncology research, which has funded the opening of the Josephine Elle Hartung-Rispoli Research Lab, the first of its kind in the state, directly impacting pediatric clinical trials.

While at Hackensack UMC, Josephine saw the need to create a magical outdoor escape where pediatric patients wouldn’t need special permission to visit with family members or caregivers. She had her eye on a rooftop space at the Children’s Hospital

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that could be transformed into her dream garden.

She worked on the plans with her mother, Heidi. The garden would be an interactive space that houses a climbing boulder, wishing fountain, a hand-hewn warrior pole, chalkboard walls, and a custom whimsical awning to provide shelter from the sun and rain, as well as a space to create art. In the words of Heidi, it would be “a place to blow bubbles, feel the elements, and dream.” In tribute to a little girl with a dream, Josephine’s Garden was born.

In May, Go Green members held a Mother’s Day Flower Sale at IHA and an additional fundraiser at Demarest Farms. Our girls raised about nine hundred dollars in total to benefit the Josephine’s Garden Fund. Money raised went toward purchasing flowers for Josephine’s Garden and remaining funds went directly to the Josephine Elle Hartung-Rispoli Research Lab. In June, Go Green members, in conjunction with CARE, collected art supplies for the young patients who are being treated at Hackensack UMC. Because the children have significantly compromised immune systems, they cannot share art supplies when visiting Josephine’s Garden. Due to the IHA community’s kindness, Go Green members collected markers, crayons, colored pencils, and more to donate to Josephine’s Garden along with the raised funds.

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IHA NEWS

SUMMER 2016

IHA

Chef Andrew Gonci

Wins

Cooks vs.

Cons

Cooks vs. Cons host, Chef Geoffrey Zakarian, takes a peek at what Chef Andrew Gonci is cooking during the competition. The episode aired on Sunday, August 7, 2016 on Food Network.

Our very own Chef Andrew Gonci, IHA’s executive chef from Cater to You Food Service, was recently named the winner of the Food Network culinary competition show, Cooks vs. Cons. In this fast-paced show, hosted by Chef Geoffrey Zakarian, amateur cooks go head-to-head against two professional chefs while concealing their true identities. Contestants battle it out in two rounds of timed challenges to create restaurant-quality dishes using a secret ingredient.

On Chef Andrew’s episode, judges Daphne Oz and Richard Blais had to decide who was a novice in the kitchen, and whose cooking skills have been seasoned to perfection. When the winner is named, contestants then reveal if they are professional chefs or amateurs.

In the two rounds of competition, the judges were most impressed with Chef Andrew’s use of the secret ingredients, pretzels and mint. Although he was confident in his skills and talent in the kitchen, Chef Andrew said it was a surreal moment when they announced him as the winner. “My emotions were everywhere that day—scared, happy, excited,” he said. “I just didn’t want to let anyone down, especially the IHA girls. I couldn’t come back to eight hundred girls as a loser. Losing wasn’t an option, so I think I tried harder than most people would.”

Chef Andrew, a 2003 graduate of The Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York, said he has always wanted to be on a cooking television show.

During his time at IHA, he has gotten a glimpse of what it’s like to be on TV by appearing on regular episodes of Heartburn, a cooking show hosted by Kathleen Rattazzi’17 on IHA’s heartTV. Chef Andrew said he has very much enjoyed working at Immaculate Heart Academy for the past two years, as he is able to combine his loves of cooking, being in front of the camera, and educating our community about food. “I love that I don’t just cook for the staff and kids, but I am also able to teach them about particular foods or how to make certain things,” he said. “They really have shown an interest in learning about what they are eating.

Those forty minutes they have in the cafeteria every day is their one break from all their hard work, so I want to do the best I can to make them happy.”

Class Notes a software engineer for Verizon. I received numerous awards for my senior design project, a battery-free and wireless steel structural health monitoring device, including the Dave & GG Farber Award for Societal Impact and first place in an Elevator Pitch Competition.”

Taylor Strohmann writes, “This May, I graduated from Kutztown University in Pennsylvania as the 2015-2016 captain of the NCAA Women’s Bowling Team.

I am headed to Montclair State University this fall for graduate school where I will get my master’s degree in clinical psychology.

Thank you for all the wonderful memories and lessons that IHA taught me four years ago; I hold them very close to my heart and I still bleed plaid.”

Deanna Dragone writes, “I graduated from Ramapo College of New Jersey on May 13, 2016 with a BSN degree. I have been working as a patient care associate at Hackensack University Medical Center in the PICU, Pediatric General Unit, Pediatric Oncology, Pediatric EMU, Pediatric ER, and the NICU. I recently passed the nurse licensing exam, the NCLEX, to become a registered nurse and have accepted a full time job at Hackensack University Medical Center in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit.”

Theresa Picciallo writes, “I began my collegiate career at the University of Pennsylvania in September of 2012. I graduated a year early and received my diploma in May of 2015. Two weeks later, I moved to Los Angeles to pursue my childhood dream of becoming a TV showrunner by taking a job on the set of the syndicated sitcom, Continues on page 26

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IHA NEWS

SUMMER 2016

Continued from page 5

Taylor Gallagher’16, Rachel Carafello’16, Christine Weber’16, Rebecca Kryceski’16, Catherine O’Toole’17, and Kimberly Caccamo’17 prepare for the 2016 Baccalaureate Mass.

Acknowledged at the Baccalaureate Awards and in-house ceremonies were: IHA Scholar Athlete Award—Sophia Gulati (Princeton University) NJSIAA Scholar Athlete Award—Megan Twiss (Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute) U.S. Figure Skating Association Platinum Level of Achievement— Mackenzie Robertson (Montclair State University) IHA Athlete of the Year—Megan Ahearn (Saint Michael’s College) Art Award—Nila Nejad (Syracuse University) Business Award—Cortney Muller (James Madison University) Communications Award—Mary Raso (University of California, Santa Barbara) Computer Science Award—Megan Twiss (Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute) English Award—Sophie Rosenzweig (Monmouth University) French Award—Erin Garry (University of Maryland) Spanish Award—Annabel Reyes (Fairleigh Dickinson University) Mathematics Award—Stavroula Spyropoulos (New York University) Physical Education Award—Danielle Monocky (Pennsylvania State University) Religion Award—Selina Pressimone (University of Pittsburgh) Science Award—Melissa Mendizabal (Yale University) Social Studies—Jacqueline Rogers (Santa Clara University) Michael Edward Echeverria Award—Madison Dietz (Pace University) Virginia “Ginny” Panicucci Memorial Award—Hailee Heffernan (Quinnipiac University) Woman’s Club of Haworth Award—Brianna Alonso (Loyola University, Maryland) Paramus Knights of Columbus—Sydney Wall (Loyola University, Maryland) Westwood Woman’s Club—Elizabeth Mathis (Hamilton College) and Hailee Heffernan (Quinnipiac University) River Edge Knights of Columbus—Selamawit Hitscherich (University New Haven)

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IHA NEWS

SUMMER 2016

Other honors included: The National Merit Scholarship Commended Students

Julie Kim (Washington University, St. Louis) Melissa Mendizabal (Yale University)

The National Hispanic Recognition Program Melissa Mendizabal (Yale University) Jordan Orriols (University of Miami)

IHA Parents’ Club Robert Ryan Memorial Scholarship (Most Improved Student) Taylor Kenerson (Misericordia University)

IHA Gratitude Award The Chernalis Family

Career Athletic Achievement Awards Emilie Cieslak (Duke University) One Hundred Career Softball Hits

Isabella Chang’16 is acknowledged for her outstanding achievement in honors at IHA.

Caitlyn Floyd (Ithaca College) Volleyball Career Assist Record Jordan Wilmoth (University of Dayton): One Thousand Career Basketball Points

Megan Ahearn’16 is named IHA Athlete of the Year for the Class of 2016.

Julia Lynch’16 and Allison Cole’16 receive Certificates of Honor.

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IHA NEWS

Class Notes ‘2 Broke Girls.’ Once we broke for hiatus this past April, I was brought on to an untitled pilot starring Matt Leblanc and Jenna Fischer, which was officially picked up by CBS and will air this November. I will begin work on ‘2 Broke Girls’ again in mid-July for it’s sixth season. It has been a fabulous year and I am excited to see what God has planned for me next!”

Bethany Baumann writes, “I recently graduated with summa cum laude honors from Sacred Heart University. I received a B.S. degree in marketing from the Jack Welch College of Business and also double minored in digital advertising and graphic design.

Over these past four years, I succeeded in earning dean’s list every semester. The experience I gained at IHA surely prepared me for the academic challenges in college. I also had opportunities to get exposed to real-world business settings through several marketing internships. In my senior year, I was elected into the Beta Gamma Sigma Honor Society, which recognizes business students’ success. My extracurricular activities centered around the Theatre Arts Program (TAP). After getting my feet wet participating in Theatre shows at IHA, I applied and received a grant to join TAP. I started my freshman year, working in a technical role, learning the lighting board and how shows are produced. By my sophomore year, I was appointed to the executive board as advertising/ graphic design chair. Over the next three years I had the opportunity to take on lead roles in several shows as a stage manager, assistant producer, and also did some acting in one of the student-run Theater Fest

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SUMMER 2016

Family Matters-

Each year at the Baccalaureate Mass, Immaculate Heart Academy recognizes several extraordinary families in our IHA community. Parents who have committed themselves to Catholic education and who have sent three or more daughters to IHA, are presented with the IHA Family Award. This award is given when the last of their daughters graduates from Immaculate Heart Academy. Congratulations, parents!

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The IHA Family Award For Four Daughters

Mr. and Mrs. Enn Kunnapas

Lia’09, Mariel’11, Katrina’13, and Kristin’16

For Three Daughters

Mr. and Mrs. Mark Allen

Kayla’12, Meghan’16, and Samantha’16

Mr. and Mrs. Franklin Cox

Clare’09, Christeen’12, and Patricia’16

Mr. and Mrs. Steven Payne

Caitlin’07, Olivia’13, and Charlotte’16

Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Wahler Nicole’11, Melissa’14, and Julia’16

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IHA NEWS

SUMMER 2016

The IHA community

greatly appreciates the sacrifice you have made!

The Kunnapas Family receives the IHA Family Award for having four daughters who attended IHA. From left to right are Lia Kunnapas’09, Katrina Kunnapas’13, Enn and Linda Kunnapas, Kristin Kunnapas’16, and Mariel Kunnapas’11.

The Cox Family receives the IHA Family Award at this year’s Baccalaureate Mass & Awards Ceremony.

From left to right are Clare Cox’09; Patricia Cox’16; Eileen O’Connor Cox’79, IHA Consultative Board Member; Franklin Cox; and Christeen Cox’12.

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Class Notes

shows. I am so grateful for all the memories from both Immaculate Heart Academy and Sacred Heart University and for the people I have met who have influenced me. With those people at my side, I accomplished and learned more than I could have ever imagined.

I look forward to the future and beginning my career with a Global Integrated Marketing position at Merck Animal Health.”

Nicole Czajka writes, “On May 15, 2016, I graduated summa cum laude from Rutgers University, New Brunswick with a B.S. in public health and a minor in biological sciences. I also recently completed an internship at KinderSmile Foundation (KSF), a local 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to fight early childhood dental caries by providing clinical care and oral health education to underserved, low-income children. Starting this August, my academic endeavors will continue at the Rutgers School of Dental Medicine as a student in the D.M.D. program, where I will pursue my dream of becoming a dentist.”

Amanda Tedino graduated from Fordham University and will be attending graduate school at Columbia University in the fall to pursue a career in the field of medicine.

Ellie McCarty recently graduated from the Naval Academy with a Bachelor of Science degree in political science with honors, and was commissioned as an Ensign in the United States Navy.

She will be going to flight school in Pensacola, Florida in the fall and will serve as a Navy pilot.

Continues on page 30

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Traffic Safety Squad

IHA NEWS

SUMMER 2016

IHA’s Traffic Safety Squad (TSS) was named a grand prize winner of the Brain Injury Alliance of New Jersey Sixth Annual U Got Brains Champion Schools Showcase. TSS members include, top row left to right, Marlena Zinn’17, Reilly Medzadourian’18, Kathleen Sheridan’18, Katherine Evans’18, Kelley Corbett’17, and Reagan Bossolina’17. Middle row, left to right, are Megan Rice’18, Olivia Wicki’18, Samantha Scian’18, Catherine O’Toole’17, Julia Scherer’17, Kyra Surgent’18. Michelle Eckert’18, and Gabriella Turi’18. Bottom row, left to right, are Megan Lee’18, Emily Bommer’18, Valeria Oshepkova’17, Megan Brockmeier’17, Sienna Scian’17, Emily Williams’18, Kimberly Caccamo’17, and Kathleen Rattazzi’17.

The Immaculate Heart Academy Traffic Safety Squad (TSS) was named a grand prize winner of the Brain Injury Alliance of New Jersey Sixth Annual U Got Brains Champion Schools Showcase. On Thursday, May 26, 2016, students from fifty-seven schools across the state participated in the showcase at Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson. Students cracked down on distracted and unsafe driving by presenting their projects and receiving recognition for their safe driving campaigns. As a grand prize winner, IHA will receive a driving simulator, donated by New Jersey Manufacturers Insurance Company (NJM), used to enhance the school’s driver education course. This was the first year IHA entered this six-year-old competition.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for teens in the United States, and teen drivers and passengers are among those least likely to wear a seat belt. Since the inception of the Champion Schools Program, students have been empowered to address those issues and work toward changing the trend.

Mrs. Terry Skjold, IHA driver education teacher and physical education department chairperson, said

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she is thrilled the efforts of members of the TSS were recognized by the Brain Injury Alliance. “The club has worked very hard all year to make students and parents more aware of the Graduated Driver License restrictions,” she said. “Hopefully the attention the TSS has received will make even more people aware that lives are saved when GDL restrictions are enforced.”

Julia Scherer’17 became a member of IHA’s Traffic Safety Squad her sophomore year when she began taking driver education. When IHA was named a grand champion at the showcase, Julia said she was thrilled yet surprised, especially since it was IHA’s first year in the U Got Brains program. “Mrs. Skjold and the rest of TSS have worked so hard to raise awareness about safe driving and make a difference in our community through various projects and videos, so winning this title was an honor,” Julia said. “I think that it is very important for clubs like TSS to exist in high schools today because car crashes are the leading cause of death among teenagers. These clubs help spread the message that doing something as simple as wearing your seatbelt can save a life.”

Congratulations, everyone!

IHA NEWS

SUMMER 2016

Student Services Enhanced with College Counseling The 2016–17 academic year brings the introduction of IHA’s College Counseling Department. Mrs. Melissa O’Sullivan, who has worked in the Immaculate Heart Academy Guidance Department for the past five years, has been named director of college counseling. We also welcome Mrs. Corinne Fritzky as IHA’s new college admissions counselor.

Our two college counselors will maintain ongoing relationships with colleges and universities to make them aware of IHA’s academically challenging environment. They will also act as liaisons to the college representatives who visit IHA. The college counselors will work

with students for all four of their high school years to help them navigate through college applications and the admissions process. The counselors plan to meet with students individually and in groups, and include parents as an integral part of the process. College counselors will host various parent meetings to keep them upto-date with the ever-changing landscape of college admissions and how they can best assist their daughters. We look forward to implementing this new department at IHA to guide our students through what can sometimes be a challenging and overwhelming period.

IHA to Present The Little Mermaid

This fall, Immaculate Heart Academy will proudly present the musical version of The Little Mermaid. The timeless show is based on the animated 1989 Disney film and the classic story

by Hans Christian Andersen about a mermaid, Ariel, who dreams of the world above the sea and gives up her voice to find love.

Five performances will be held on November 12 at 7:00 p.m., November 13 at 2:00 p.m., November 18 and 19 at 7:00 p.m., and November 20 at 2:00 p.m. The production will be produced

by Lucille Conzo and directed by Jodi Capeless. The choreographer and associate director is Kimberly Galberaith, the musical director is Ed Ginter, and the set and lighting designer is Ryan Bell. The musical features a large cast of principle characters, supporting cast members, and a large ensemble—all of whom will be impressing the audiences with their outstanding singing, dancing, and acting talent.

Children are invited to come and meet Ariel during the first matinee performance on November 13. Additionally, IHA students are encouraged to bring their grandparents to the Grandparents’ Day matinee on November 20, where they can enjoy refreshments at intermission and take advantage of reduced ticket prices. Please contact Beth DiCiancia Garrigan’76 with Grandparents’ Day questions at bgarrigan@ihanj.com. For more information on IHA’s production of The Little Mermaid and to purchase tickets, please visit www.ihanj.com.

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IHA NEWS

SUMMER 2016

What Are You Doing Class Notes The Rest of Your Life?

Briana Gorman recently graduated from the Naval Academy with a Bachelor of Science in quantitative economics, and was commissioned as an Ensign in the United States Navy. She is moving to Pensacola, Florida in July to start flight school and serve as a Naval flight officer.

Anastasia Paluch graduated the Rutgers Business School, New Brunswick campus, with a dual major in finance and supply chain management this past May. Anastasia accepted a position with Intel working as a buyer in the Global Supply Management department. She moved to Portland, Oregon at the end of June. Anastasia continues to play classical piano as she has done for the past sixteen years.

Amanda Carpenter writes, “I graduated this past May, cum laude from Saint Michael’s College with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology and anthropology and a minor in chemistry. In August, I started with Mercy Volunteer Corp.

I’ll spend a year serving at the Pittsburgh Mercy Health System, working with Operation Safety Net, which provides the homeless of Pittsburgh with access to healthcare and hope.”

Michele DePinho writes, “I graduated summa cum laude from Manhattan College in May of this year with a degree in civil engineering. I’m now working as a junior engineer at McLaren Engineering Group in West Nyack, New York. At McLaren, I am working as a structural engineer on entertainment structures and arts facilities (theaters, concert tours, stages, live events). I was formerly an intern at the company

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More Than 9,500 Reasons to Choose IHA

You’re in your final year of elementary school and have worked hard to do well. In addition to your studies, it’s time to choose which high school is best for you. This decision, quite possibly, could be more important than any other you will ever make.

With more than nine thousand five hundred graduates, IHA has a rich heritage of academics, athletics, appreciation of the arts, and a sisterhood that remains over the passage of time. Often over the years, our graduates comment that while their college years were wonderful, the friends they made at IHA are the ties that bind.

At Immaculate Heart Academy, the possibilities for you are endless. Would you like to be a doctor, scientist, or a researcher? Our new science lab is stateof-the-art. Your medical career can begin here and now at IHA. Our graduates have gone on to some of the most prestigious medical schools in the country.

Or perhaps you dream of the stage, theater, or music. We have Emmy® winning graduates who will guide your steps during career panels offered throughout the year. Whether it’s communications, law, social work, technology, advanced athletics, or art, it is all right here—all at IHA!

Our house is open to all . . .

Come and plan your future with us!

Frankee Funicelli’16, Hayley Rieman’16, and Nila Nejad’16 cool off with watermelon slices at the Senior BBQ.

IHA NEWS

SUMMER 2016

Class Notes

Open House Sunday, October 16, 2016 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Highlights of the Day

❤

❤ ❤

Tour our school and meet current students, faculty, and administration.

Our new director of admissions, Alexis Fatigati’07, will be there as well.

Learn about the admissions process, financial aid, and transportation.

IHA alumnae and their daughters are invited to take a special tour and enjoy a breakfast reception before Open House; more information will be emailed to you.

Essential Admissions Information

❤ Students planning to apply will need to take the Archdiocesan Entrance Exam (COOP) on Friday, November 11, 2016. ❤ Complete the IHA online application by Thursday, December 1, 2016.

Open House Pre-registration

Pre-registration for the Open House is encouraged; please check IHA’s website for a link to register online. In addition, a second evening Open House will be held on Thursday, November 3, 2016 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. For more information on our Open Houses, please call the main office at 201-445-6800 or e-mail:

Alexis Fatigati’07 Director of Admissions afatigati@ihanj.com

last summer and was lucky enough to be hired back full time. I have also earned my engineer in training (EIT) certification in New York State, which is the first step to eventually becoming licensed as a professional engineer.”

Christina Paulsen graduated from Rutgers University on May 15, 2016 with a bachelor degree in sports management. Christina writes, “During my four years in college, I have been playing on the women’s golf team with a full scholarship. I have been on the dean’s list all four years, and I consider this to be a great accomplishment especially since being a full-time athlete is similar to having a second job. During my last semester at Rutgers, I was required to work as an intern. I was very fortunate that I found an internship at the PGA New Jersey. During the internship, the Director of the PGA NJ offered me a full-time paid internship position starting immediately after graduation. I began my career in the golf industry on May 16, 2016. I hope that along with this position, I can play in golf tournaments during the winter season. IHA prepared me well for college; I know that preparation served me well when the workload became heavy between academics and golf. For that, I thank you all.”

Mary Curry writes, “I graduated cum laude from New York University, and received the NYU Founders’ Day Award and cumulative dean’s list. Also, I was awarded Chapter President of the Year by the Fraternity and Sorority Life Office for my term as president of Alpha Sigma Tau at NYU. I was also accepted as Continues on page 34

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IHA NEWS

SUMMER 2016

IHA Student-Athlete Heads to Princeton

IHA student-athlete, Sophia Gulati’16, will be attending Princeton University this fall. Sophia was a four-year varsity starter for the IHA soccer team and captain for the 2015 season. Her chief recruiting period was during her sophomore year, when numerous colleges showed interest in Sophia. During the college application and admissions process, she had narrowed down her choices to Princeton University, Columbia University, Dartmouth College, University of Notre Dame, and Georgetown University, but Princeton had been her dream school since she was a child.

“There were many other options of good colleges offering me a spot, but I did not want to pass up an Ivy League education,” Sophia said. “I committed in August of my sophomore year. Coaches began offering me spots prior to that time, but I felt it was too early as I wanted to do overnights at other colleges.”

Page 32

Sophia said she chose Princeton because she prefers a mid-size school, she finds it stronger than other Ivy League schools in the faculty-student ratio, and there is a lot of cultural diversity. Additionally, the school’s proximity to New York City allows for abundant internship opportunities, the campus is incomparably beautiful, and she felt a strong connection with the soccer coaches and players. Sophia also believes Princeton is the most well balanced Ivy League school, as academics take priority over athletics.

She plans to study economics and will be a midfielder on the Princeton Tigers women’s soccer team. Her longtime coach, Mr. Brandon Silva, said Sophia was truly the heart and soul of her team for all four years she played in an IHA soccer jersey. “Sophia exudes leadership, tenacity, class, and a tremendous work ethic,” Coach Silva said. “She is an incredible student as well. She has represented IHA, her family, and coaches with the highest level of professionalism and we are all looking forward to watching her at Princeton.”

Although she is enthusiastic to work with a new team and coaches, Sophia said she will miss Coach Silva, who taught her how to enjoy playing well and working as a team. “He was not obsessed with winning, but instead instilled a sense of pride in me and my teammates,” she said. “He taught me that it’s not about my performance, but how I conduct myself and the work ethic I demonstrate through the energy I possess on the field. Coach treated everybody fairly and was dedicated to making everyone not just a better player, but a better person in life.”

At this year’s Baccalaureate Mass & Awards Ceremony, Sophia was honored with the IHA Scholar Athlete Award for her “outstanding academic and athletic achievement and a high level of character and sportsmanship.” Sophia said she will miss many things about Immaculate Heart, especially the small classes, the special bond she has made with classmates, locker break, and her kilt. She feels IHA has prepared her for college in more ways than one: not only how to set goals and chase them, but also how to become a self-motivated learner.

“IHA taught me time management. In college, playing sports and focusing on academics can be challenging,” she reflected. “IHA also taught me how to study, take notes, pay attention to detail, and, most importantly, be independent and confident.”

IHA NEWS

SUMMER 2016

Retirement and End-of-the-Year Luncheon

Farewell All!

Mrs. Beth Mueller Szydlik’84, Mrs. Lourdes Silva Sinkovitz’75, and Mrs. Berta Roldan enjoy each other’s company at the luncheon at Woodcliff Manor.

❤ ❤ ❤ Members of IHA’s Science Department join together at Woodcliff Manor. From left to right are Dr. Erika Brennan, Mrs. Sue Adamo, Ms. Lauren Fitzgerald, Mr. Thomas McLoughlin, Mrs. Darla Addabbo, and Mrs. Angela Holuba Roberts’05.

❤ ❤ ❤

This year, we said good-bye to two devoted faculty members with a combined expertise of thirty-seven years—Spanish teacher, Mrs. Lourdes Silva Sinkovitz’75, and science teacher, Mr. Thomas McLoughlin, celebrated at a special luncheon.

Lourdes, who has worked in the World Language Department for sixteen years, is also a graduate of the Class of 1975. The Silva Family has “bled plaid” since IHA’s inception. Her aunt, Asela Silva, taught here for many years and her cousin, Alicia Silva Ritchie’65, and sister, Maria Silva Nolet’72, are graduates.

Lourdes’ daughters, Lisa Sinkovitz Virgilio’05 and Julie Sinkovitz’10, also share the title of IHA alumna with their mother.

Mrs. Beth Mueller Szydlik’84, religious studies teacher who has worked with Lourdes for eleven years, said she admires her integrity as a teacher, and her desire to have her students really encounter the Spanish language and culture. “I admire her drive to have her students walk away with something real from their time in her classroom,” Beth said. “Lourdes demanded a lot of herself as a teacher because she deeply respected the teaching profession and her responsibility to her students.”

Mr. Thomas McLoughlin, better known as “Mr. Mac,” has been a member of IHA’s Science Department for twenty-one years. His daughter, Amanda McLoughlin, graduated in 2005. Upon the announcement of his retirement, many former students sent him well wishes, thanking him for teaching them not only science, but important life lessons. His students called him “one-of-a-kind” and “a dedicated and passionate teacher who has impacted the lives of so many IHA girls.”

Mr. John Millard, mathematics teacher who has worked with him for sixteen years, joked that Mr. Mac was the only faculty member who missed bus duty more than he had. “Mac is a great friend and teacher,” Mr. Millard said. “I’m going to miss him, but not as much as the girls will.”

In a farewell message to his students, Mr. Mac thanked all of the girls he has had the honor and privilege of teaching. “You will never know how much you have enriched my life,” he shared. “You made me happy, you made me laugh, at times you made me mad, but whenever I was in a classroom with you, I was so alive. I will never forget any of you.”

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IHA NEWS

Class Notes

a member of Order of Omega Greek Life Honor Society and Phi Alpha Delta Pre-Law Fraternity.

In the fall, I will be attending St. John’s University School of Law on scholarship.”

Alexandra Rubino was recently named to the dean’s list at Lafayette College.

B r i t t n e y G r a n t w r i t e s , “I attended the University at Albany, State University of New York, where I majored in human biology, in addition to following the pre-health track. I graduated in May of this year with a Bachelor of Science degree. I am now working toward applying to Physician Assistant school, and, in the meantime, I am working on gaining patient care hours/experience for my application.”

SUMMER 2016

Special EventsBlue Eagle Open

This year’s Blue Eagle Open will be held on October 3, 2016 on the IHA Golf Team’s home course, Forest Hill Field Club. We are grateful to have two Premiere Event Sponsors: Hackensack University Medical Center and Daniel and Claire O’Toole P’17.

All IHA community members are encouraged to play, but we would especially love to see alumnae and former members of the IHA golf team! Registration opens at 11:00 a.m. followed by a BBQ luncheon. Shotgun start is at 1:00 p.m. with dinner to follow at 6:00 p.m. Hope to see you there.

Traveling P laid

IHA Traveling Plaid’s next stop will be Chapel Hill, North Carolina!

Area alumnae, please join us on Saturday, November 12, 2016 at 11:30 a.m. for a luncheon at the home of Susan Robinson King’65. Afterward, alumnae are invited to tour the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill campus and Charles Kuralt Office in the School of Media and Journalism, where Susan is the dean.

Please come out to meet fellow alumnae from your area and hear about the latest IHA happenings. For those alumnae in Southern California, please keep an eye out for details regarding a Traveling Plaid Reunion in your area next January.

Class of 2013

Jenna Passerino writes, “I graduated summa cum laude from Sacred Heart University in three years with a political science major and minors in philosophy and honors. I was student government president of my class, pre-law president, and scholarship chair of my sorority. I was in the St. Thomas Moore honors program and sat on its council as service chair. I received a community service scholarship for doing more than one hundred hours a year that I completed at Caroline House, a nonprofit school for underprivileged women and children. I was a student ambassador, a member of the Forever Pioneers alumni club, and a member of the Ethics Bowl Debate Team. I graduated with the Gold Medal of Honor in political science (best performing

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Fashion Show

This year’s holiday-themed Fashions of the Heart Brunch & Fashion Show will be on December 4, 2016. The event, to be held at The Estate at Florentine Gardens, begins with auction-item viewing and brunch hors d’oeuvres, followed by lunch and the fashion show. Models will walk the runway in casual and formal attire, all generously provided by Lord & Taylor, Fashion Center in Paramus. Senior IHA students, escorted by students from the area boys’ schools, will be modeling holiday and New Year’s Eve formal wear.

Class of 1966 50th Reunion

This fall, IHA’s Class of 1966 is holding a Reunion Weekend to celebrate its 50th anniversary. On September 24 and 25, 2016, two events will be held: a Reunion Luncheon on September 24 at 12:00 p.m. at Ramsey Country Club and a Memorial Mass and Brunch on September 25 at 10:00 a.m. at IHA. The cost of the luncheon is $70 per person, and the cost of the IHA brunch is $35 per person.

If you purchase tickets for both events, you will receive a discounted pricing of $95. Register online at ihanj.com or make check payable to: Immaculate Heart Academy, Memo: IHA Reunion ’66 500 Van Emburgh Ave., Township of Washington, NJ 07676

IHA NEWS

SUMMER 2016

Reunion Weekend 2016

Calling all alumnae, particularly anniversary classes ending in ’1 and ’6.

This year’s Reunion Weekend will be held November 5 and 6, 2016 at IHA

Events include:

5K Run/Walk/Crawl

Saturday, November 5 at 10:00 a.m.

Details: $25 per person, includes a T-shirt.

Registration will take place in the gym lobby in the back of the school.

Alumnae Cocktail Reception

Saturday, November 5 from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m.

Details: $75 per person.

Join fellow classmates and alumnae for a cocktail reception that will include heavy hot and cold hors d’oeuvres, open bar, and live entertainment in the IHA gymnasium.

Alumnae Memorial Mass & Brunch

Sunday, November 6 at 10:30 a.m.

Details: $25 per person.

All alumnae, family, and friends are welcome to join us in IHA’s Sisters’ Chapel in remembering those deceased members of the anniversary classes and those from our community who have died during the past year. Brunch to follow.

❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤

Reminder for

All IHA Events . . .

For more information, tickets, and/or to register online, please visit www.ihanj.com or email Beth DiCiancia Garrigan’76, director of alumnae relations and special events, at 201-445-6800, ext. 182 or bgarrigan@ihanj.com.

Class Notes

overall in the major), the Evelyn Connelly award for best performing graduate heading to law school that amounted to nearly seven thousand dollars, and a medal for the honors program. I was a member of the Delta Epsilon Sigma Honor Society for Catholic Schools, the Phi Sigma Alpha political science honor society, and the Order of Omega honor society. I am headed to Seton Hall Law on a full tuition scholarship.”

Cosette Gastelu was named to the dean’s list at the University of Pennsylvania for the 2015–2016 academic year.

Caroline Morano was recently named a team captain for the cross country team at Holy Cross.

Taylor Nardella was named to the dean’s list at Loyola University Maryland for the spring 2016 semester.

Class of 2104

Stephanie Thomas has been named to the dean’s list at Lafayette College.

Class of 2015

Caitlin Roche was named to the dean’s list at the School of Education and Social Sciences at Robert Morris University for the spring 2016 semester. As a studentathlete, Caitlin’s grade point average consistently remained better than a 3.5.

Lindsey Carpenter was named to the dean’s list at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.

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IHA NEWS

SUMMER 2016

IMMACULATE HEART ACADEMY 500 VAN EMBURGH AVENUE TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON, NJ 07676

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. . . a Blue Ribbon School

❤ Ms. Jessica Shaheen, IHA faculty member, and her husband, Kevin Aurilio, welcomed a little girl into the world at 11:17 a.m. on May 16, 2016. Genevieve Lily Aurilio was 6 lbs, 15 oz and 20 inches long. Genevieve shares a birthday with her mom! ❤ The IHA Traffic Safety Squad’s Seat Belt video won second place at the Hackensack University Medical Center Teen Safe Driving Challenge Award Ceremony on May 19, 2016. IHA also received a certificate for having more than ninety percent seat belt usage by students and student drivers. ❤ Mrs. Jamie DiGiacomo Stevenson’00, IHA faculty member, and her husband, Sam, welcomed their second son, Hunter James Stevenson, on May 26, 2016 at 11:52 p.m.

He was 7 lbs, 10 oz and 21 inches long. Big brother, Jesse, was thrilled to welcome the new addition. ❤ Lauren Foote’17, Emma Hammer’18, and Heather Farrell’18 spent a weekend in early June at Monmouth University for the New Jersey Hugh O’Brian Youth (HOBY) Leadership Seminar. Emma and Heather were chosen as the sophomore 2016 IHA HOBY Leadership Seminar Ambassadors upon receiving outstanding recommendations from the IHA faculty. After having an amazing experience last year as an IHA ambassador, Lauren applied and was accepted by HOBY to be on the junior staff this year. The HOBY vision is to motivate and empower individuals to make a positive difference within our global society, through understanding and action, based on effective and compassionate leadership.