THEMARIEL MRS. MAURO’S NEW POSITION AT THE MARY LOUIS ACADEMY
Emily Deonarain ‘28 March 28, 2025
Mrs. Mauro
Stepping into a new role is never easy, but it becomes even more meaningful when it happens in a place that already feels like home. After serving as Assistant Principal of The Mary Louis Academy and building strong connections with students, teachers, and the school community, Mrs. Jean Mauro now takes on the important role of Principal. This transition marks not just a change in a title, but a new chapter of leadership, growth, and the vision for the future of TMLA With the experience, dedication, and passion for supporting young women, she is ready to guide the school toward continued success while keeping the strong values and sense of community that make TMLA special
Emily Deonarain: What changes or improvements do you hope to bring to the school as you become Principal?
Mrs. Jean Mauro: I would like to support the President and admissions team in increasing enrollment in any way they need me!Weneedtocontinuetolettheentiregeographicalareaknow that we are the best! I am eager to continue to help spread the word that we continually look for ways to strengthen our programs and ensure students have the guidance and opportunities they need to succeed, both in and beyond the classroom. The current expansion that we see before us is exciting,andI’mgratefultobehereforit!
ED:IsthereanythingyouwouldbringbacktoTMLA?
JM: I am currently in my eighth year here at TMLA; I think that some traditions have changed, but I’m not cognizant of events that have been done away with completely. At least, I can’t think of anything! Sometimes, events don’t run due to circumstances beyond our control, but that doesn’t mean they won’t come back thefollowingyear!
ED: How do you feel about transitioning from Assistant Principal toPrincipal?
JM: While the role has certainly had its challenges, the support of my colleagues and, most importantly, our students has made it truly fulfilling and rewarding. I’m excited to begin the 2026–27 schoolyearasPrincipalofTHEMaryLouisAcademy!
ED: As you step into the role of Principal, what’s one thing about our school culture that you would think needs to change, but peoplewouldnotexpectyoutosaythis?
JM: One thing I’d gently push us to reflect on is how comfortable wearewithchange.Wehavesuchastrongsenseoftraditionand identity,whichisarealstrength butsometimesthatcanmakeit harder to try new approaches or adjust the way we’ve always done things. I’d love for us to build a culture where it feels a little safer to take thoughtful risks, share new ideas, and be open to evolving, all while still honoring what makes our school special. I would stress the word “thoughtful” here, and would recommend that each new idea be given the time it needs to flourish and adjustasneeded.
On behalf of the students, teachers, and faculty of The Mary Louis Academy, we wish Mrs. Mauro all the best in her exciting positionasPrincipal!
Members of TMLA’s South Asian Club captured after their Festival Performance.
TRADITION IN MOTION: TMLA’S CULTURAL HARMONY WEEK AND FESTIVAL
Nervanie Prashad ‘28 Apr 24, 2026
From January 26–30th, 2026, The Mary Louis Academy came alive with color, rhythm, and tradition during its annual Cultural Harmony Week, which is a profound and cherished TMLA tradition that honors the diversity within our student body. Throughout the week, students had the opportunity to share and experience cultures from around the world, reinforcing our school’s commitment to unity, respect, and global awareness.
Beyond performances, Cultural Harmony Week offered a unique experience through food. On different days throughout the week, each cultural group brought in dishes representative of their culture, allowing students to quite literally “taste the world.” From savory to sweet, these shared meals created moments of connection, curiosity, and appreciation, as students explored flavors and traditions beyond their own backgrounds.
Beyond performances, Cultural Harmony Week offered a unique experience through food. On different days throughout the week, each cultural group brought in dishes representative of their culture, allowing students to quite literally “taste the world.” From savory to sweet, these shared meals created moments of connection, curiosity, and appreciation, as students explored flavors and traditions beyond their own backgrounds.
The week also emphasized spiritual unity through an interfaith prayer service, where members of the TMLA community came together to honor diverse religious traditions Faiths represented this year included Sikhism, Hinduism, Catholicism, and Orthodox Christianity, among others. This meaningful gathering reflected TMLA’s mission to foster not only cultural understanding but also mutual respect across different beliefs and practices
The highlight of the week was the in-school Cultural Harmony Festival, where cultural clubs took center stage and performed traditional dances representing their heritage. Participating groups included the Hispanic Club, K-Pop Club, Irish Club, South East Asian Club, East Asian Club, Hellenic Society, and Eastern European Club. Each performance reflected not only technical skill and creativity but also great cultural pride, transforming the school auditorium into a vibrant showcase of global traditions.
Among the many memorable performances, the Desi Club stood out for its powerful and expressive dance. Blending classical and modern South Asian styles, the dancers executed intricate footwork, synchronized formations, and vibrant hand movements that captivated the audience. Their performance embodied both celebration and storytelling, highlighting the richness of South Asian culture while energizing the entire room with rhythm and spirit.
Cultural Harmony Week continues to be a defining experience at TMLA, and it’s a tradition that brings students together not just as classmates, but as a global community. Through dance, food, and shared traditions, we once again demonstrated that diversity is not only embraced, but celebrated.
In addition the impact of the school’s alumni was highlighted, offering a glimpse into what students can accomplish beyond their years at TMLA. Their achievements demonstrate how a strong foundation, combined with support and determination, can lead to meaningful success.
More than anything, the night created a sense of reassurance. For parents, it offered clarity and confidence in their decision For students, it marked the start of a new chapter filled with potential. Events like Selected Students Night at TMLA go beyond providing information; they help establish a sense of belonging from the very beginning. As the class of 2030 prepares to step into this new environment, one message is clear: they are entering a community ready to support them every step of the way
WELCOMING CLASS OF 2030 TO TMLA
Adriana Naula ‘27
Mar 30, 2026
It’s a unique experience to represent a community you’re still growing within, especially when given the chance to guide those just beginning their journey. As a junior at The Mary Louis Academy, I had the opportunity to volunteer at this year’s “Selected Students Night,” welcoming the class of 2030 into our Hilltopper family. From the moment families arrived, students and staff couldn’t have been more welcoming and exciting, creating an atmosphere that felt both encouraging and inclusive
ITALYTRIP 2026
Representing the Student Services Department, I spoke with families about scholarships, academic support, and the many opportunities available to students. But what made the experiment unique was that I wasn’t speaking from a distant memory; I was speaking from the present Knowing firsthand what it feels like to navigate coursework, seek support, and discover opportunities within the school.
Vanessa Filardo ‘28
Mar 30, 2026
Every year, Mrs. Liotopoulos, Head of the World Languages Department, hosts a trip to Europe that is open to every student in Grade 10 and up to get a chance to travel abroad (and practice their language skills!). These trips typically take place during Winter Break, spanning from February 13th to February 20th, which is the Friday before everyone returns to school. This year, over 50 students from Grades 10-12 participated in the trip to Italy, which is a fantastic amount of participation!
Mary Louis Students taking a picture at the photo booth
TMLA Students at Saint Peter’s Basilica
The students visited three different cities, including Rome, Florence, and Venice, but they also visited smaller cities as “pit-stops” while traveling from one city to another: Assisi and Bologna, which have plenty of great history, such as the fact that Carlos Acutis’ actual body is sitting in a clear coffin in Assisi for everyone to observe. Trips like this are a great way to learn more about the history of a certain country that someone may want to visit someday by themselves.
On the trip, students, with tour managers Edo and Marius, learned about the ancient history of the three cities listed above, while also taking advantage of the opportunities to look at the historical sites that make the cities the way that they are today. For instance, in Rome, they visited the infamous Colosseum and learned that it’s still an important part of history mainly because of the impact it left on the Romans.
Aside from all of that, these students seemed like they really enjoyed being on the trip and have learned so much about each of the cities, which they can tell everyone they know about These students not only had fun, but they were also heavily educated with new knowledge of history that they may or may not have known beforehand. Next year, the students will be going to Greece, so make sure to get the money for it on time! Remember, even though there’s learning on these trips, also have some fun and enjoy!
SPIRIT NIGHT / WEEK 2026
Sophia Clarisse Gonzales ‘28
Mar 30, 2026
This year’s Spirit Week was full of energy, fun, and creativity from all grades as the students came together to celebrate a musical-themed week leading up to Friday’s pep rally. Each grade was assigned a different musical, brightening up our school hallways with creativity and coming up with dance and cheer routines that entertained students and faculty members.
Throughout the week, students participated in themed dress-up days, which contributed points to their grade’s total score overall. Spirit week started off on March 23, where students got to dress up as their favorite meme, followed by Tuesday, where they got to dress up for the wrong occasion Wednesday’s Nostalgia Day brought back childhood memories while Thursday’s Costume Day had each grade dress up as their assigned musical theme–Freshman as “Seussical”, sophomores as “Into the Woods”, juniors as “Hamilton”, and seniors as “Wicked”.
The week ended with Spirit Day on Friday, where students spent the day doing fun activities such as a homeroom party, radio bingo, a scavenger hunt, competing in volleyball against their teachers, and later in the afternoon, finally ended spirit week with a pep rally. The pep rally continued everyone's excitement, where each grade performed their dance, step, and cheer routines in front of judges, family, and the entirety of The Mary Louis Academy. At the end of the rally, the winners for dance, step, cheer, and overall spirit were announced, which wrapped up an unforgettable week. Spirit week not only brought fun to the school but also brought students together through creativity and competition
The final scores (First to last):
Overall: Juniors, Seniors, Sophomores, Freshwomen
Hallway: Juniors, Seniors, Freshwomen, Sophomores
Dance: Juniors, Seniors, Sophomores, Freshwomen
Step and Cheer: Juniors, Seniors, Sophomores, Freshwomen
African Americans march in Washington, D.C., to protest racial discrimination in the United States during the 1960s. Photo Credit: Universal History Archive
Black History Month: Celebrating Black Leaders and Changemakers
Akachi Abakporo ‘28 and Mari Stamps ‘29
Apr 15, 2026
Black History Month is a time to recognize and celebrate the achievements, strength, resilience, and contributions of Black individuals throughout history. In the United States, it is observed every February to highlight stories about individuals who were often overlooked in history. Black History Month not only serves as a remembrance of the past but also as a call to continue learning and growing as a society. It is important that we take time to highlight and educate others on vital figures who changed the world for the Black community
Throughout history, Black leaders have played crucial roles in shaping the world we live in today. Prominent figures such as Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X, and Frederick Douglass fought for equality, civil rights, and justice. In a time when segregation was enforced, their fights helped to challenge systems of oppression, inspiring future movements as well, which continue to impact society today. Aside from activism, other individuals like Nelson Mandela and Muhammad Ali used their voices and platforms to take a stand against injustice around the world.
Along with male trailblazers throughout Black history, Black women have played an important role in making changes to the world and our society. Many inventions, breakthroughs, and achievements created for human society as a whole, were created or discovered by Black women. A notable example of the excellence of Black women is evident through the scientific discoveries and achievements made by Katherine Johnson. Katherine Johnson was one of the NASA “human computers” during the time of the space race between Russia and the USA. Being a Black woman, during the 1960s, she was looked down upon by many people of the higher ranks, but she rose above and helped make sure that the space missions went smoothly, ultimately helping the US get on the Moon first. Even farther back into the history of Black women, there was so much excellence being shown, including the life of Madam CJ Walker. She was the first female self-made millionaire and the first Black female millionaire ever. She grew up in poverty and had a rough life, but through it all she was still able to persevere through the hardships, start her own haircare company, and become the richest woman at the time. That was something unheard of, but she was able to defy stereotypes and show off her excellence.
During the events throughout history, Black stories have been overlooked. Black History Month is a time to showcase the beauty within them and how Black people were able to overcome adversity. These stories and the knowledge that they give us about learning from the mistakes of the past are what we should be using now in the present. Knowing that discrimination only breaks apart societies and communities— while celebrating the differences and achievements of people who are different allows us to ensure history won’t repeat itself. Having Black History Month is a start, but there is always more to be done so that nobody is discriminated against no matter what the circumstances are.
Our cast and crew await you!
We’re Off to See the
Wizard; Spring Musical
Agatha Orozco Gonzalez ‘28
Mar 30, 2026
Hello, Hilltoppers! The TMLA Genesians is pleased to announce this year’s musical production: The Wizard of Oz! The Wizard of Oz follows Dorothy Gale (Violet Dutton ‘26) and her dog Toto (Ms. A’s dog, Sam!) as they are swept away to the Land of Oz, where they encounter friends and foes. The performance will feature live music played by an orchestra, lively choreography by our very own Senior Peacemaker, Isabella Alleva, and some special songs only heard in the musical version of The Wizard of Oz!
This production will take place in the auditorium on Friday, April 24th, and Saturday, April 25th at 7 pm on both days. Tickets will be sold after Easter Break and are being sold online, in school during lunch periods, and may be purchased at the door. We hope to see you there!
Themes in Women’s History Month at TMLA
Rose Regula ‘29
Mar 30, 2026
At an all-girls school, Women’s History Month is definitely celebrated, especially at the spirited TMLA. Observed annually in March, this month honors the contributions, struggles, achievements, and ongoing challenges faced by women. The 2026 Women's History Month theme, announced by the National Women's History Alliance, is “Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future.” The United Nations has also released a theme for International Women’s Day 2026, ”Rights. Justice. Action For ALL Women and Girls ” The goals of these themes are to honor, educate, inspire, connect, and envision a world with the contributions of female leadership to create a sustainable future. The theme of women shaping sustainable futures extends beyond just environmental issues. Its depth encompasses women creating and paving ways to “financial stability, community resilience, leadership succession, intergenerational equity, green technologies, economic justice, education systems, and building civic power,” according to the NWHA.
How can we, as TMLA women of leadership, take meaningful action and incorporate these themes this March? We can model sustainable habits, advocate for the rights of others, and educate ourselves on the challenges faced by women in the past, present, and prevent them from happening in the future We can honor those who have helped combat these challenges and continue to improve rights, provide justice, and act for ALL women and girls throughout the world. This month, we recognize that Women’s History Month is not just about reflection but also action. Sustainability is not just a word; it is a solution. As TMLA women, we are not just learning about women’s history - we are shaping it.
Beyond a Month: HowWomen’s History Lives at TMLA
Melis Cavdar ’28
Mar 28,
2026
Every March, schools and communities take time to recognize Women’s History Month, a period dedicated to honoring the contributions of women throughout history. However, at The Mary Louis Academy (TMLA), this celebration feels like more than just a yearly tradition; it reflects the values that are present in the school every day.
Women have played major roles in shaping society, even when their achievements were overlooked. As author Maya Angelou once said, “Each time a woman stands up for herself, she stands up for all women.” This idea is especially meaningful at TMLA, where students are constantly encouraged to find their voices and support one another.
Throughout the month, TMLA celebrates Women’s History Month in a variety of ways. Bulletin boards around the school highlight influential women from different fields, and morning announcements recognize important figures such as Malala Yousafzai and Ruth Bader Ginsburg. In classrooms, discussions often go beyond the standard curriculum, focusing on both the accomplishments of women and the challenges they have faced over time.
For students, these activities can feel personal. One student explained, “It makes me feel proud to be surrounded by strong, motivated girls It reminds me that we’re all capable of doing something important.” Teachers also emphasize that Women’s History Month is not only about learning history, but also about thinking ahead and understanding the role students can play in the future.
The importance of this month connects to both recognition and progress As Michelle Obama stated, “There is no limit to what we, as women, can accomplish.” At TMLA, this idea is reflected in the opportunities students are given to lead, succeed academically, and express themselves.
Overall, Women’s History Month at TMLA highlights the strength and potential of women, both past and present. While the month itself eventually ends, its message continues, reminding students that they are capable of contributing to history in their own ways.
Tasty Delights: Spring Recipes
Monica Naula, ‘28
Mar 23, 2026
As the season of spring awakens, one engaging activity you can take part in is baking Some recipes you can recreate this spring are carrot muffins and M&M brownies.
Carrot Muffin Recipe
By: Adriana Naula, ‘27
Materials-
1 large bowl
1 spatula
1 whisk
Muffin liners
Muffin pan
Ingredients-
2 cups of flour
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1¾ cups white sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
2 cups grated carrots
1 teaspoon lime juice
Steps-
1.Pour all the dry ingredients into the bowl and whisk them together.
2.Crack the 3 eggs, the oil, vanilla extract, and shredded carrots.
3.Mix everything well.
4.Pour the lime juice to activate the baking soda.
5.Pour the batter into the muffin mold with liners.
6.Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake for about 18-22 minutes.
