VizCommence_2024_FNL_Web

Front Row (Left to Right)

Rebecca Mooney

Margaret Wright

Marcella Komorek

Magdalene Erker

VISITATION ACADEMY

Class of 2024

Madison Collins

Heidi Kraemer

Theresa Degenhart

Mary Kate Spellman

Ava Grace McGowan

Mattea Schwartz

Mary Concagh

Elizabeth Kadyk

Mallory Hanock

Adriana Povinelli

Caterina Povinelli

Caylee Moore

Isabella España

Louisa LaMartina

Stephanie Muigai

Second Row (Left to Right)

Louisa Hulbert

Nidhi Tangirala

Finley Hercules

Lily Novak

Mary Stein

Gabriella Ross

Lilly Hoehn

Grace Restovich

Mia Tiburzi

Grace Fagan

Reilly Hill

Abigail Roy

Sarah Ward

Jane Ledbetter

Ava Fix

Francesca Rodgers

Scarlett Kitta

Rosa Forget

Third Row (Left to Right)

Willa Jansky

Sofia Shah

Flora Eidson

Lauren Crow

Amelia Ward

Natalie Ori

Alison McDonald

Marin Hugge

Meredith Zaegel

Hailey Robinson

Hannah Robinson

Brooke Menke

Emma Miller

Macy Haley

Anna Piasecki

Victoria Brennan

Cithandra Duncan

Allison Kowalczyk

Josephine Janisch

Kelsey Horsman

Claire Fulton

Anna Huber

MaryClare Murray

Isabella Cusumano

Maya Parafiniuk

Maura Osthoff

Emma Wyeth

Isabella Vlaytchev

Skylar Chao

Caroline Belt

Margaret Kiley

Lillian Cofer

Emma Winter

Carlee Saur

Sadie Shepherd

Fourth Row (Left to Right)

Not pictured: Kaitlyn Emerson

Courtesy of Wagner Portrait Group

Congratulations, Visitation Academy Class of 2024!

Anyone who knows me knows I love talking about history and a myriad of other topics that sometimes may be of more interest to me than they are to others. That said, I enjoy using these topics as entry points to talk about things that are of interest to or related to our greater Viz community.

Today is one of those days. Today, I want to talk about jazz and how it links directly to our 2024 graduates, their time at Viz, and their path beyond Viz.

So here it goes. Nobody seems to listen to jazz anymore. It just disappeared. Names like Charlie Parker, Dave Brubeck, Miles Davis, and Bill Evans are meaningless to most people. I could say Joey Jo-jo Junior Shabadoo and George Hontiverias, and I would get the same reaction: blank stares.

I am not here to tell you to listen to jazz—although I feel it is worth the effort—but I am here to tell you that jazz has much to teach us. Jazz musicians are incredibly accomplished technicians. They know the basics of making music “by the rules.” But what makes jazz special is improvisation, spontaneously creating music in the moment. It is going off script

“Now it is our 2024 graduates’ turn. They have the skills. They know the tunes. They have everything they need to make their own music.”

with your fellow musicians: taking a basic core tune and making something new.

Here is where I tie my thoughts on jazz to Viz and our 2024 graduates. Viz taught these 73 young ladies the technical mastery: They can write. They can calculate. They understand the basics of history. They are equipped with Catholic and Salesian values. And now, they get to go out into the world and do some improvisation. They will encounter different people, ideas, and opinions as they make their way in the world. And they will have the opportunity to add their unique vision and melodies to the song of life.

When I toured the US, meeting up with Viz alumnae last fall, I saw that repeatedly. Vivettes who left Viz with the requisite skills and then added their own improv to become entrepreneurs, writers, scholars, and professionals of all types. They used the skills they learned at Visitation Academy and added their unique selves.

And now it is our 2024 graduates’ turn. They have the skills. They know the tunes. They have everything they need to make their own music. We cannot wait to hear what they come up with.

Congratulations!

DAVID MANUEL COLÓN Head of School

Welcome to the 2024 Commencement Issue of The Visitor Magazine

Iam thrilled to be writing my first official letter to the Viz community, a community I love dearly. When I considered my message for this Commencement issue, three themes related to my Viz experience came to mind.

GRATITUDE

If I had been asked on my graduation day what impact Viz would have on my life, I am sure the answer would not have adequately conveyed the reality and blessing it has been. As a Viz student from third grade through senior year, Viz was my second home. Over the years, I have recognized much of who I am today is due to the Sisters, faculty, students, and families in this special community. Twenty years later, the school made an equally meaningful impact on all of my daughters in distinct yet different ways. When Sister Marie Therese asked me to join the Charism Committee nine years ago, I was grateful for the opportunity to give back to the school that had given so much to me and my family. Viz is a special place, and I am humbled and challenged in my new role as Chair of the Visitation Academy Board of Trustees.

TRADITION

The Sisters laid an exemplary foundation of Salesian Spirituality, living the Little Virtues daily. Today, the dedicated staff, exceptional faculty, and committed students and families, together with the Sisters and the Association of Christian Faithful, continue the tradition of excellence in academics, faith, leadership, and service. The common thread from past to present is to Live Jesus and be who you are and be that well.

CONNECTION

If you have not yet done so, I encourage all alumnae to reflect on what Viz meant to you as a student and now as an adult and act on it. Connect with fellow alumnae. Visit campus if you have not been by in recent years; there are many new exciting spaces and innovative learning opportunities throughout the building. Consider a volunteer role in the Fellowship or Entrepreneurial Programs and mentor our current Viz students, become a coach, or inspire as a guest speaker. Donate funds towards tuition assistance as requests and awards increase each year or to continue improving facilities and learning spaces. And lastly, please wear your crescent and advocate for Viz — you are the best advertisement for a Viz education.

“The common thread from past to present is to Live Jesus and be who you are and be that well.”

With Vivette love and pride,

CORI CUNNANE STEBELMAN ’90 Chair, Board of Trustees

Caroline Belt

Matriculations

CLASS OF 2024

Duquesne University

Victoria Brennan

Miami University, Oxford

Skylar Chao

University of Washington

Lillian Cofer

University of Maryland

Madison Collins

University of Kansas

Mary Concagh

University of Missouri-Columbia

Lauren Crow

Missouri Baptist University

Isabella Cusumano

University of Missouri-Columbia

Theresa Degenhart

Columbia University in the City of New York

Cithandra Duncan

University of San Diego

Flora Eidson

Providence College

Magdalene Erker

The University of Tampa

Isabella España

Southern Methodist University

Grace Fagan

Illinois Wesleyan University

Ava Fix

Lafayette College

Rosa Forget

Michigan State University

Claire Fulton

Clemson University

Macy Haley

University of Kansas

Mallory Hanock

University of Missouri-Columbia

Finley Hercules Bellarmine University

Reilly Hill

University of Missouri-Columbia

Lilly Hoehn

Boston College

Kelsey Horsman

University of Missouri-Columbia

Anna Huber

Rockhurst University

Marin Hugge

University of Colorado

Louisa Hulbert

Boston University

Josephine Janisch

University of Mississippi

Willa Jansky

University of Missouri-Columbia

Elizabeth Kadyk

Missouri University of Science and Technology

Margaret Kiley

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Scarlett Kitta

University of Missouri-Columbia

Marcella Komorek

Indiana University-Bloomington

Allison Kowalczyk

Vanderbilt University

Heidi Kraemer

University of Michigan

Louisa LaMartina

University of Missouri-Columbia

Jane Ledbetter

Butler University

Alison McDonald

University of Notre Dame

Ava Grace McGowan

University of Mississippi

Brooke Menke

Le Moyne College

Emma Miller

University of Mississippi

Rebecca Mooney

University of Virginia

Caylee Moore

University of Missouri-Columbia

Stephanie Muigai

American University

MaryClare Murray Villanova University

Lily Novak

Miami University, Oxford

Natalie Ori

Auburn University

Maura Osthoff

University of Missouri-Columbia

Maya Parafiniuk

University of Notre Dame

Anna Piasecki

Washington University in St. Louis

Adriana Povinelli

University of Missouri-Columbia

Caterina Povinelli

University of Missouri-Columbia

Grace Restovich

University of Notre Dame

Hailey Robinson

University of Southern Indiana

Hannah Robinson

University of Southern Indiana

Francesca Rodgers

Saint Louis University

Gabriella Ross

University of Missouri-Columbia

Abigail Roy

University of Mississippi

Carlee Saur

University of Missouri-Columbia

Mattea Schwartz

The Ohio State University

Sofia Shah

Tufts University

Sadie Shepherd

Miami University

Mary Kate Spellman

Texas Christian University

Mary Stein

University of Notre Dame

Nidhi Tangirala

Indiana University-Bloomington

Mia Tiburzi

University of Missouri-Columbia

Isabella Vlaytchev

University of California Berkeley

Amelia Ward

DePauw University

Sarah Ward

College of Charleston

Emma Winter

Baylor University

Margaret Wright

The Ohio State University

Emma Wyeth

University of Missouri-Columbia

Meredith Zaegel

Ohio University

Valedictorian Address

Grace Elizabeth Fagan

At the beginning of the year, in English class, Mrs. Shortt had us answer the question, “What’s on your plate?” And yes, given that we all go to the same school, and many of us are involved in similar things, there were similarities between “plates.” However, without a doubt, the most common item on our plates was the stressful, daunting, and scary college applications we all had to complete.

All the applications asked unique and thoughtprovoking questions, but one of them especially stood out to me. Wake Forest asked prospective students to list “their top ten.” And if you’re thinking that’s a little vague, you would be correct. There was no context given, so students could give their top ten of anything they wanted. Let me tell you, this created some buzz around the Viz halls. Seniors scrambled for two more vacation spots they liked when they had eight or three more of their favorite virtues or even a topic for a top ten list in general. I haven’t forgotten this question because it truly is very thought-provoking, so I’d like to share one of my top ten lists with you.

So here are the top ten things I love about the Class of 2024:

1. I adore how supportive all these girls are each and every day. From Heidi praying for an Everbowl employee during Kairos shared prayer to girls congratulating classmates after athletic victories or theatre accomplishments, I am so thankful for the support we show each other on a daily basis.

2. I am in love with the creativity this class possesses. The Class of 2024 brought impressive and innovative new ideas to Viz. JV2 basketball impacted Viz in a way nobody could have imagined. Dancing with the Stars or teachers, is a new tradition I believe will go on forever and was led by this class and our amazingly willing teachers. Weddings in the parking lot may not happen again, but our marriage ceremony was certainly a creative idea I don’t think people will forget any time soon. And there have been lots more creative ideas over these last four years that have made this time with you all so joyous and kept everyone on their toes.

3. The Viz spirit this class has is unmatched. From the Spirit Week costumes and decorations to the effort put into Fall Fest, Senior Spirit Week, Mallory’s spirited Owl performances, and more, I am confident we have enlivened our entire Visitation community.

4. Our open-mindedness has been absolutely inspiring to me and, I would assume, to so many others. I’d like to mention Kairos again to explain this. Despite being late to the meeting room every single time and some people being slightly difficult to wake up, we were willing to fully embrace the retreat experience and try to get as much as possible out of it. And I have heard more than one person, faculty included, say that it was one of the best, if not THE absolute best, Kairos retreats they’ve ever seen. And the coolest part of it has been seeing the impacts of Kairos continue to appear day in and day out. November girlies, “I see a rose in bloom at the sight of all of you,” and January girlies, “You truly are loved, even if your heart’s in a thousand pieces.”

5. I am so proud of the hard work we have put in over the last four years. It hasn’t always been easy, but the determination and perseverance we have shown through numerous exam weeks, long nights, English essays, AP chemistry tests, physics labs, and two-test days should make us and our families proud.

6. I love the confidence I have seen grow in all of us over our time together. I’ve seen it through Natalie breaking out in song at extremely random moments in AP chemistry, a flash mob in the middle of lunch during Spanish week (thank you, AP Spanish), a gorgeous and energetic S’line Dance, and many moments on the field, court, in the pool, on the course, or on the stage. I hope to continue to see this confidence grow for years to come.

7. The strength that we possess is awesome. I know, literally, the “Lunk Club” or soccer team has had many workouts in their matching tank tops, and we, as a class, have never lost a tug of war in all four of our years, but the figurative strength shown by this class is arguably much more important. We’ve had the strength to stay patient and to be determined to make friends and connect with others even through COVID when we were forced to stay away from each other. And we have had the strength to get through very difficult moments because we have always leaned on each other through it all.

8. I love the laughter, smiles, and jokes that never end in this class. I’m sorry, teachers, it may have been distracting at times: Mrs. Shortt during your Socratic seminars, Mr. Flores during the extended and numerous “brain breaks,” Mr. McKeever and Mr. Russell during many social studies presentations, and Ms. Campbell during a few too many quiet work times. But as someone in the class, I can honestly say that our humor and constant joy have lit up some of the tough moments and made our journey much more fun. Even if Mr. Colón sees us as “rascals,” I wouldn’t change the energy, excitement, and joy this class lives with for the world.

9. I love the generosity of this class. Whether it’s helping another student out with an assignment, staying up late on FaceTime to help someone else with an assignment you’ve completed, or bigger things like dedicating time to being a club president, donating to a charity drive, or being involved in the service opportunities at Viz like sandwich making or peer-to-peer tutoring, I am constantly impressed by our class’s willingness to give. This characteristic will continue to serve us well as we use what Viz has taught us to donate our time and resources.

10. I love the sisters that this class has given me. Each one of us brings something unique, special, and important to this group, and without each and every one of us, this class would be different. I am so thankful to have so many amazing sisters who we can and will always continue to lean on throughout life, no matter the challenges we face.

To be here with such an accomplished and incredible class, we needed lots of help along the way. Thank you, teachers and administrators, for putting up with our shenanigans, but seeing the best in us and caring for us through it all. Thank you to Mr. Stoecklin, Mr. Strohmeyer, and the athletic and fine arts departments for helping us to develop our passions. Thank you to all who have helped put together such a wonderful end to our time at Viz. Thank you to the Visitation Sisters and the ACF for making this amazing place what it is and allowing us to receive such an incredible education. Thank you, counselors, for helping us make decisions on where to go next and supporting us through everything. Thank you to our parents for making Catholic education a priority and supporting us through thick and thin. And most importantly, thanks to all of you, Class of 2024, for being the best sisters I could have ever asked for – sorry, Carley and Jane – and for continuing to “Be who you are and be that well.”

Congratulations, Class of 2024! I’m so proud of all of you, and I can’t wait for the many reunions in the future and to hear of the numerous wonderful things you all accomplish. Thank you!

“We have had the strength to get through very difficult moments because we have always leaned on each other through it all.”

Salutatorian Address

Alison June McDonald

Good evening to our beloved Sisters, Association of Christian Faithful, Board of Trustees, administrators, faculty, staff, families, and friends of the Class of 2024. I am beyond honored to welcome you to Visitation Academy’s 191st Commencement Ceremony.

To begin, I would like to congratulate my shining Class of 2024. We have officially made it to the bittersweet moment that culminates our high school journey together, and I genuinely could not be more blessed to have grown and matured alongside you all for the past four years. Although, the matured part may be questionable for some of us, especially considering the content in our “Baddies on Ballas” Snapchat group, we truly have developed into a beautifully interconnected class. I mean, what other class in Visitation history has been so bonded as to organize a class-wide field trip to the St. Louis Zoo, plan a glamorous frat wedding in mere hours, and even sing the Visitation school song in front of the White House? And although the sneak attacks of “Senior Assassin” suggest we might be a little too comfortable showing up at our classmates’ doorsteps, our loving connection has really become unparalleled.

After much thoughtful reflection regarding our class’s high school adventures, I have determined that the singular quality that makes my “golden” Class of 2024 stand out is the undeniable love and encouragement we show to one another. Even when drowning in the depths of COVID contact tracing or floundering in AP English reading assignments, my 72 sisters have never failed to make me feel appreciated and unconditionally loved. As exemplified by our altruistic care for each other, I can confidently affirm that my peers’ positive encouragement has inspired me to explore new interests and expand my comfort bubble, both inside and outside of Viz. I mean, would we ever have even considered attending a JV2 basketball game if it wasn’t for the support we all shared for this incredibly athletic

team that never fails to dominate the court with their swag? How unfortunate that would be! In all seriousness, when in the presence of our 72 radiant sisters, we gleam and glow just as we are meant to, reflecting the best, most authentic versions of ourselves.

To all of you who don’t already know, a large part of my identity stems from the raging theater kid inside me. So, when I was given the opportunity to participate in Mean Girls here last fall with such an incredibly talented cast and creative team, I felt absolutely overjoyed to perform a song that I’ve belted in the shower for years. Sorry, mom! It is titled “I See Stars.” Not only does this song have an extremely catchy melody, but it also reflects a theme that I believe our class could not exemplify more. Please enjoy a dramatic reading of some of my favorite lyrics: “I see stars. We shine as bright as day. will look out for you. We’ll light each other’s way. I see stars.”

As I admire you all right now, I am overwhelmed with how brilliantly each of you illuminates our school, and I can’t wait to see how accomplished you all become as we progress into the future. When you leave Viz tonight, don’t be upset — look up at the stars. Know that no matter how far you go, your Visitation sisters will always be glistening alongside you, encouraging you to let your authenticity shine through.

Tonight, we will receive not only our diplomas but also our Visitation crescent moons — an ancient symbol of victory and strength. Funnily enough, our patron, St. Francis de Sales, did not create the symbol of the crescent moon by himself; he actually adopted the idea from his ancestor Pierre de Sales’ coat of arms, which contained not only a crescent but also two bright, shining stars. Although we don’t know the reason these two stars were discarded from our crescent today, I choose to believe that they are symbolic of Viz being our North Star, guiding us in the right direction as we apply our knowledge toward the many other stars we will encounter in the future.

By having faith in God and also in our Visitation community, we will always have a home to return to in which we are wholeheartedly loved.

Visitation Class of 2024, we are all stars, though we each shine in our own special way. As our unique radiance expands past our refuge of Visitation Academy into new cities, states, and even entirely new continents, I know in my heart that each and every one of you will gleam and glimmer to create a positive difference in this world. An endless amount of joy, beauty, and pure love sparkles in each young woman on this stage tonight. So, don’t be afraid to let your 24-carat light radiate just as brightly as you are at this very moment. I love every single one of you dearly.

Stay golden and thank you!

“I am overwhelmed with how brilliantly each of you illuminates our school, and I can’t wait to see how accomplished you all become.”

Awards & Honors

VALEDICTORIAN

Awarded to the student who has earned the highest cumulative grade point average over four years.

OUTSTANDING SALESIAN LEADER AWARD

This award is given in recognition of a student who consistently demonstrates Salesian leadership in a manner that promotes gentleness, joy, respect, and hospitality.

ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH SCHOLAR-ATHLETE

The St. Louis Post-Dispatch Scholar-Athlete Award is given to a student who is in the top 25% of her graduating class.

Awarded to the student who has earned the secondhighest cumulative grade point average over four years.

NATIONAL MERIT FINALIST

Awarded to students based on a nationally-applied Selection Index score in recognition of their outstanding academic promise.

ST. FRANCIS DE SALES VIRTUE AWARD

Nominated by her classmates, the recipient of the St. Francis de Sales Virtue Award is a young woman who best lives the Visitation motto “Live Jesus” through Salesian virtues.

ST. JANE DE CHANTAL SERVICE AWARD

Nominated by her classmates, the recipient of the St. Jane de Chantal Service Award is a young woman who exhibits true apostolic service both within the Visitation community and in her wider community.

SR. CECILIA CARROLL, VHM, AWARD IN MUSIC AND SCHOLARSHIP

Established by Rodger and Jean Marré Faherty ’55 in loving memory of Sister Cecilia Carroll, VHM, this $1,000 award is given to a deserving senior who has displayed outstanding musical talent.

PRINCIPAL’S AWARD

Chosen by the Principal and Assistant Principal in collaboration with the faculty, this young woman demonstrates a consistent dedication to the Visitation community and serves as a role model to all in a quiet, gentle, and humble manner.

OUTSTANDING STUDENT LEADER

The Outstanding Student Leader is a student who has demonstrated leadership ability and service to our school community in an exemplary manner.

Alison June McDonald

SALUTATORIAN

Grace Elizabeth Fagan

Theresa Frances Degenhart

Mary Kathleen Spellman

Meredith Allison Zaegel

Maura Kathleen Osthoff

Theresa Frances Degenhart

Flora Joyce Eidson

Margaret Elizabeth Kiley

Sofia Elisabeth Shah

THE HAROLD F. AND CATHERINE A. FAUGHT STEM SCHOLARSHIP

Generously established in 2019 by Mrs. Catherine A. Faught, this $5,000 college scholarship is awarded to a student who has demonstrated academic excellence and outstanding leadership in the areas of STEM.

Stephanie Nyambura Muigai

ALUMNAE

AWARD

The Alumnae Award is given to one member of the graduating class who best exemplifies the Visitation ideals. She is true to the Salesian spirit of the Visitation and truly Lives Jesus.

MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. MODEL OF JUSTICE AWARD

The Martin Luther King, Jr. Model of Justice Award is an annual award presented to students of the Archdiocese of St. Louis who have demonstrated, through their attitude and their work, a commitment to serving humanity in the broader community. These students have made justice a central part of their lives and have committed themselves “to the noble struggle of equal rights.”

ARCHBISHOP JOHN L. MAY SERVICE AWARD

Given in remembrance of Archbishop May’s dedicated Christian service, this award recognizes the outstanding leadership and community service of high school seniors in the St. Louis area.

Isabella Elena

MEV PULEO SERVICE AWARD

Given in remembrance of a graduate of the Visitation Class of 1981, this award recognizes a senior who embraces life as Mev did. Suggested by the faculty, the recipient demonstrates journeying with the poor while recognizing the face of God in all and working towards the realization of justice and peace in the kingdom of God.

SUSANNAH A. KILMER ZEST FOR LIFE AWARD

GIRLS INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS LEAGUE OUTSTANDING SPORTSMANSHIP AWARD

Nominated by the Athletic Director, the Girls Independent Schools League Outstanding Sportsmanship Award recognizes a senior athlete who has led her team with examples of outstanding character.

Given in remembrance of a graduate of the Visitation Class of 1994, this award recognizes seniors who embrace life as Susannah did. Nominated by their classmates and voted on by the faculty, the recipients demonstrate strong academic achievement, loyalty and devotion to friends, and the ability to meet life’s challenges.

CHARTER MEMBERS OF THE CLASS

Victoria West

Brennan Mary Isabel Concagh

Isabella Carolina Figueroa España

Rosa Allegro Forget

Anna Barbara Piasecki

Heidi Ann Kraemer

Maya Elizabeth Parafiniuk

Stephanie Nyambura Muigai

Vlaytchev

MISSOURI SEAL OF BILITERACY RECIPIENTS — FRENCH

MISSOURI SEAL OF BILITERACY RECIPIENTS — SPANISH

Mary Isabel Concagh

Isabella Carolina Figueroa España

Grace Elizabeth Fagan

Anna Marie Huber

Alison June McDonald

MaryClare Neary Murray Maya Elizabeth Parafiniuk

Carlee Marie Saur

Natalie Elise Ori

Mary Kathleen Spellman

SISTER MARY AIMÉE DILSCHNEIDER ALUMNAE ESSAY AWARD

While surveying the attributes of a Visitation graduate, I found the life-centered in Christ category spoke to me immensely. As someone who has attended Viz since Toddlers, I have grown up in an environment steeped in love and respect. From being taught how to view a difficult situation as an opportunity for growth and to handle disagreements with gentleness and understanding, these values have been very present in my life.

Despite the simple nature of these lessons and virtues, their impact on me has been significant. I find myself looking inward for guidance through circumstances and discovering a solution utilizing these ideals: humility, gentleness, freedom, joy, and optimism. I believe these seeds were planted within me while I was young and are beginning to blossom as I mature into adulthood.

I use humility to put everything into perspective and realize that any difficulty can be overcome, especially by setting aside one’s pride and accepting outside help. I see gentleness everywhere from my classmates through offering help with homework, giving advice on which dress to wear to a dance, to simply smiling at each other in the hallways. Freedom can be seen through one’s actions and choosing to be kind and going the extra mile for each other. I have seen this through myself and my classmates supporting one

another by watching sporting events or musicals. Joy and optimism I find radiating off of the Viz community as a whole is something I hope to bring to everyone I encounter. Each time I talk with someone I hope that I can make them laugh from a joke or just simply smile and feel heard. I think valuing everyone in our community is important because without everyone feeling included, we would not truly be living Jesus or following His virtues.

I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to attend Viz for as long as I have been and to be surrounded by a community of strong, faith-filled, and intelligent women. I strongly believe I would not be the same person I am today if I had attended a different school. Being part of a space where there is so much love and respect for every person is truly special and has formed every aspect of my person. For example, my thought process and moral compass have been faceted to follow Jesus. Whenever I find myself unsure of how I should handle a situation, I typically turn to God and inward to find the solution. This compass was formed through my years at Viz from correcting behavior in Kindergarten to encouraging good decisions through my senior year. Jesus teaches us not to judge people, to love our enemies, and always to show kindness toward others. I have almost subconsciously set each of these goals for myself and strive to perform in the hope that I am living in a way that would please Him. I love and will forever cherish my time at Visitation Academy because it has raised me to Live Jesus in all my thoughts, words, and actions, and I feel challenged to continue this sentiment for the rest of my life.

VISITATION STUDENT LEADERSHIP AWARD

Lillian Grace Cofer Willa Simone Jansky Marcella Marie Komorek MaryClare Neary Murray

Mary Colleen Eleanor Stein Emma Catherine Winter

Victoria West Brennan

This award is presented in honor of Sister Mary Aimée Dilschneider ’35, VHM, for her years of dedication and service to the Alumnae Association. The recipient best describes what Visitation Academy means to her and how her experiences as a Viz student will enrich her future.

This award is given in recognition of students who consistently demonstrate effective leadership to the school community in a manner that is not always publicly recognized.

Congratulations Class of 2024!

Celebrating our Salesian Spirituality

350 Years: Jubilee of the Apparitions of the Sacred Heart

To commemorate the 350th anniversary of the apparitions of the Sacred Heart of Jesus to Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque in Paray-le-Monial, France, a Jubilee lasting one and a half years is taking place. It began on December 27, 2023, the anniversary of the first apparition, and lasts until June 27, 2025, the date of the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart. Throughout these 18 months, the Sanctuary of the Sacred Heart in Paray-le-Monial is sponsoring a variety of pilgrimages, liturgies, contests, and meetings, all with the theme of “Returning Love for Love,” and our community at Visitation is celebrating as well.

PRAYER FOR THE 350TH JUBILEE

In honor of the 350th Jubilee of the Apparitions of the Sacred Heart of Jesus to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, the following prayer was composed by the chaplains of the Sanctuary of Paray-le-Monial, with whom the parish, the Visitandines and Jesuits, and the employees on mission at the sanctuary are associated.

Lord Jesus, you revealed to St. Margaret Mary your Heart, which is so passionate with love for all men and for each one in particular. Today, you invite us to draw from the source of your Heart, which remains open more than ever.

In this sacrament of Love, which is the Eucharist, we offer to You our tiredness and our weariness: grant us rest; we show You our suffering and our injury: comfort us and heal us; we reveal to You our harshness of heart: change us in gentleness and humility; we put before You our ungratefulness and our indifference: may we render to You love for love; we tell You of our thirst for loving You and for spreading the good news about You: send us out in the power of Your Holy Spirit.

Lord, we consecrate ourselves to Your Heart, furnace burning with charity (meditate in silence). Make us instruments which draw hearts to Your Love. Make us burn with Your compassion in order to bear witness to the world of this Heart, which has loved us so much. Amen.

IMPRIMATUR OF MGR RIVIÈRE, BISHOP OF AUTUN, CHÂLON, AND MÂCON

For a commentary on the prayer, use the QR code at left.

Who

Was St. Margaret Mary Alacoque: Heiress to the Heart of Jesus

St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, born on July 22, 1647, in Janots, Burgundy, France, was a French nun and mystic renowned for her devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. As a child, her family faced financial hardships; her father died when she was only eight years old, leaving her upbringing primarily to her mother and godmother. With their estate taken over by relatives, Margaret Mary, her mother, and her siblings were treated very poorly. During this time, Margaret Mary found consolation in time spent with Jesus at Mass and through prayer.

Though she felt called to religious life, her family situation prevented her from pursuing her call: her brothers took over control of the estate and sought to marry Margaret Mary off. After much convincing of her brother and mother, Margaret Mary entered the Visitation Convent at Paray-le-Monial at the age of twenty-four.

Upon joining the Monastery, her novice mistress told Margaret Mary, “Go place yourself before God like a canvas before a painter.” Through deep experiences in prayer, Margaret Mary began to feel Jesus’ presence with her constantly. She was often distracted from her work, and her mysticism caused her superiors and fellow Sisters to shun her.

On December 27, 1673, Margaret Mary experienced a vision of Jesus Christ, during which He revealed to her His burning heart. She had another vision in 1674 and a final vision on June 16, 1675. In these visions, Jesus told Margaret Mary of His heart, which so loved humanity but received ingratitude in return. He asked Margaret Mary to repair the woundedness of His heart through her own spiritual and corporal sufferings and to share this request for reparations with others.

He instructed her to receive communion each First Friday of the month, for there to be a Holy Hour each week on Thursday to honor Jesus’ time in the garden where His disciples abandoned Him, and for the

institution of a feast in honor of His Sacred Heart.

During this time, St. Claude la Colombiere, a Jesuit priest, was sent to Paray and gave spiritual conferences to the Sisters. St. Margaret Mary confided in St. Claude the visions she had received; after much discernment and prayer, St. Claude determined that St. Margaret Mary’s visions were authentic. St. Margaret Mary suffered from many illnesses during this time. She became an enigma to her fellow Sisters and her superiors, who could not understand her mystical experiences and saw them as not of the character of the Visitation.

After the death of St. Claude, some of his writings were published and were read at the Monastery in Paray. These writings revealed the authenticity of St. Margaret Mary’s visions; it was only then that her community began to have a change of heart. St. Margaret Mary spread the devotion to the Sacred Heart within her community, but it spread beyond the walls of the Monastery. On October 17, 1690, St. Margaret Mary Alacoque died at 43.

St. Margaret Mary’s devotion to the Sacred Heart gained momentum after her death, thanks in part to the efforts of the Jesuits and other supporters. She was canonized as a saint by Pope Benedict XV in 1920 and was later declared the patron saint of devotees of the Sacred Heart. Her feast day is celebrated on October 16.

Her legacy endures through the devotion to the Sacred Heart, which has become an integral aspect of Catholic spirituality, inspiring countless individuals to deepen their love for Christ and their commitment to compassionate service. At Visitation Academy, this devotion continues with Adoration on the Thursday before the First Friday of the month, First Friday Masses in each division, and honoring St. Margaret Mary’s feast day with an all-school Mass.

The childhood home of St. Margaret Mary Alacoque. The small, square window on the second floor is the room in which Margaret Mary lived for several years as a young woman, paralyzed and unable to move.

The mural of St. Margaret Mary and the Sacred Heart of Jesus at the Monastery of Paray-le-Monial. St. Francis de Sales and St. Jane de Chantal are on the right, and St. Claude la Colombiere is on the left.

A Symbol of Devotion

The Sacred Heart of Jesus and St. Margaret Mary Alacoque Statue’s Homecoming in the Chapel at Visitation

When developing plans for their future home on Cabanne Place (1892-1962), the Sisters included a Shrine to the Sacred Heart. The Shrine was located behind the main building on the grounds and consisted of St. Margaret Mary Alacoque and Jesus

with the Sacred Heart under an elegant roof with open sides. By 1898, an angel was added to hold the lamp of reparation, which burned night and day. In 1904, the flat ceiling above the Sacred Heart statues was removed and replaced with frescoes. The Sacred Heart also was walled in with clear and stained glass.

In the 1890s, the Sisters noted hundreds of pilgrims visiting the Shrine yearly. This number only increased as Margaret Mary reached sainthood in 1920.

The Sisters and students had a tradition of processing to the Shrine and having outside Mass or Benediction at it for the Feast of the Sacred Heart, the Feast of St. Margaret Mary, and also ending at it for the Feast of Corpus Christi.

Although there was discussion and efforts to erect a Sacred Heart Shrine at Ballas Road following Visitation’s relocation in 1962, no shrine was ever erected, and the Sacred Heart statues were placed

in the alcove under the stairwell near the tunnel with a small kneeler in front of it for students and Sisters to stop and pray at. The statue was later relocated to the entryway of the Lower School at Jesus Circle.

In honor of the 350th Jubilee, the statue was moved to the vestibule of the Chapel at Visitation. Here, it is accessible for all visitors to the Chapel to see and be reminded of the legacy of the Devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus at Visitation Academy.

Sketch of the Shrine of the Sacred Heart at Cabanne. (1897)

Sketch of the Shrine of the Sacred Heart at Cabanne. (1898)

Inside the Shrine to the Sacred Heart at Cabanne. (undated)

Left to Right: A special procession of students, Sisters, and guests at the Shrine of the Sacred Heart on Cabanne. (1930s).

Left to Right: A special procession of students, Sisters, and guests at the Shrine of the Sacred Heart on Cabanne. (1930s). The statue in its new home in the Chapel at Visitation. (2024)

Photograph of the Shrine of the Sacred Heart at Cabanne. (1899)

STUDENT ESSAY

Each year, the Serra Club of St. Louis sponsors a Vocation Essay Contest for high school sophomores. This year, Julianne Zenor won third place and a $250 prize. Please enjoy her essay.

How Will I Reveal the Heart of Jesus in Our Blessed and Broken World?

by Julianne Zenor (Class of

2026)

Revealing the Heart of Jesus today may seem like an impossible task, but through prayers and actions, our world can be saved. We must learn to accept Jesus into our own hearts before we can spread the Word of God to others. Believing in our faith and believing that God is always watching and helping us is the key to helping others.

Being only one human, I cannot make that change myself, but I can help others to see Jesus’s glory and power over us. I have seen many people post videos about how good Jesus is or that God is good, but there is more to it than just posting on social media. It starts by choosing Jesus, choosing God’s path for my life rather than my own ideas and opinions. Our world is blessed and broken as we know, but the actions we must take to change it are harder than we think.

Whenever my friends are struggling, it is my part not only to help them feel better but it is also to help them find a holier life with Jesus. I tell my friends that God loves them and cares for them, and I try to get people excited to go to Mass and to connect with our faith. I know God is always praying over my friends, and I also pray for them every day.

The Heart of Jesus is so powerful and so gracious, but sometimes, it seems so hard to make that a reality for those who do not believe. My job in the bigger picture of revealing Jesus’s love for us is to pray and to go to Mass and to tell others how deeply I believe in my faith so that they may believe too. I cannot force somebody to believe in the greater God, but I can tell them that no matter how they feel or what they believe in, God is always there, always forgiving and always loving.

Dr. Amelia Blanton Hibner had a private audience with the Pope while attending the international symposium, “Repairing the Irreparable,” in Rome May 1–5, 2024.

Save

the Date

Join Visitation Academy for these upcoming Masses!

Sunday, April 6, 2025, 10:00 a.m. Community Mass

The Chapel at Visitation

Friday, June 27, 202 5, 5:30 p.m. Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the conclusion of the 350th Jubilee of the revelations of the Sacred Heart of Jesus to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque

The Chapel at Visitation

Live+Jesus: Gentle & Humble of Heart

Cat and Adri Povinelli, Class of 2024, designed the artwork for the posters and entitled their work “The Light of Jesus.”

Each year, the Visitation Salesian Network (VSN) selects a common theme that each of our schools in Mendota Heights (Minnesota), Georgetown (Washington, DC), and St. Louis focus on throughout the year. The theme is one of the many ways we work together and share our common Salesian, Visitation charism! Themes in the past have focused on the Sacred Heart, leadership, the letters between Sts. Francis and Jane, and many others!

When representatives from the different schools gathered to discuss the theme for the 2023-2024 year, we reflected on the deep need for humility and gentleness in our world and preparing our students to be that presence. We looked to Matthew’s Gospel, where Sts. Francis de Sales and Jane de Chantal found inspiration from Christ, who says: “Come to Me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am meek and humble of heart, and you will find rest for yourselves. For My yoke is easy, and My burden light.” (Matthew 11:25-30)

To learn from Jesus, revealed to us in the Gospels, is to be formed by Jesus and His love. This passage from Matthew was foundational to our saints’ understanding of who Jesus was and who He called them to be. Interestingly, this passage is unique to the Gospel of Matthew. Biblical scholars note that this is the only passage where Jesus calls a general population as He does specific disciples in other passages. Jesus’ invitation to follow Him is not exclusively to the learned but rather to all.

Here, Sts. Francis and Jane found an invitation from Jesus to exchange their hearts for the gentle and humble heart of Jesus. It is this Jesus that our founders looked to as a model for the Visitation Order, and it is this Jesus that we look to and strive to live each day.

Throughout the year, students, faculty, and staff reflected on the theme at retreats and calls to worship and reflections at Masses and prayer services and saw reminders of the theme each day in posters throughout the building.

Persuasion with the Little Virtues

In Ms. Janet Goddard’s art of persuasion class, the final unit was the study of propaganda. Among other ideas, they recognized that propaganda can be positive or negative. Students created propaganda promoting the Salesian Little Virtues to show their understanding and practice skills. Students examined and chose Little Virtues and then used Canva to create three different posters focusing on messaging, imagery, and a tagline that identified the message in Salesian terms. We held critiques, made revisions, and hope to share the beautiful messages of St. Francis de Sales and St. Jane de Chantal around our school.

LEARN MORE

the QR code to learn more about Dr. Blanton Hibner’s experience.

VATICAN SYMPOSIUM

Student Pilgrimage to Annecy

This past summer, Visitation Academy students embarked on a joint Visitation Salesian Network (VSN) pilgrimage deep into the spiritual and historical realities of Salesian Spirituality and the Visitation Charism. Pilgrims from Georgetown Visitation Preparatory School (Washington, DC), Visitation School (Mendota Heights, MN), and St. Louis, with seven student pilgrims and three chaperones from St. Louis — 37 in total. This was the fourth pilgrimage that Visitation Academy has participated in, with plans for a Community Pilgrimage next summer.

The pilgrimage was based out of Annecy, the birthplace of the Order of the Visitation of Holy Mary, with day trips outside the city. Each day, one of our students reflected on their experience.

JUNE 25, 2024 — ARRIVAL

Allison Scheiner (2025)

When I arrived in Annecy for the first time, the only thing I could focus on was how serene the city was. It seemed as though every piece of nature was sprouting a delicate flower. Safe to say it was a large change from St. Louis. Even the buildings in Annecy seemed to be perfectly imperfect; the paint weathered in the best places, the puddles scattered ideally, and even the dark alleys seemed to be cozy and flawless. I immediately understood how St. Francis de Sales could see God through this small city. I imagine St. Jane de Chantal felt the same way, immediately awestruck in the face of such a beautiful creation. Throughout my time in Annecy, I prayed many times to God, often asking Him for his infinite strength, wisdom, and guidance during my last year of Viz. While I’m sure St. Jane was not focused on her AP classes or college application, I envision that she prayed to God for strength, wisdom, and guidance, just as I had done. I also imagine that she felt overwhelmed by all the tasks and burdens she carried upon her shoulders, such as the loss of her husband or her vocation of founding the Visitation Order. But as I learned in Annecy, St. Jane heavily relied on St. Francis during such hardships. What I really took away from my time in Annecy was their holy friendship and sense of community and how I see it modeled every day here at Viz. This pilgrimage has given me new insights into the world and left me with six holy friends I can confidently call on during a time of need.

JUNE 26, 2024 — ST. FRANCIS DE SALES’ HOMETOWN OF THORENS-GLIÈRES

Emily

Ward (2025)

My first reaction to being in St. Francis’ childhood home was strange. I felt weird that after all this time of talking about him and how long ago he lived I was in the exact place he grew up. It didn’t feel real to see some of the exact pots and pans he used, the original paintings, the family crest, and more. But, more importantly, it was amazing that I got to feel so closely connected to him and everything he did throughout Geneva and Annecy. Going to the cross where he had his vision also was surreal. The cross wasn’t out in the open, and it was kind of tucked away by the trees, which was interesting to me because it was an intimate spot within the mountains, a place you can tell that God put Francis there for him to see Jane for a reason. The surroundings of the cross were beautiful and looked like I was in a dream. It was a place where I felt the beauty of God and nature. I felt spiritually closer to Jane and Francis and even more attached to the roots of the Visitation. I do see myself in a different way as part of the procession now. I feel more connected to the very beginnings of Visitation, and I know way more about Jane and Francis. Jane and Francis’ relationship is something that I look up too and admire. The way that they connected and came up with something so beautiful as the Visitation Order is something that I cherish and honor.

JUNE 27, 2024 — ST. FRANCIS’ DE SALES FIRST ASSIGNMENT AS A PRIEST WHERE HE WAS A MISSIONARY TO CALVINISTS AT LES ALLINGES

Lauren Bishara (2026)

Seeing Lake Geneva really helped me to realize the extent of the beauty Francis wrote about in his letters and the inspiration he found in nature for his letters. Climbing the hill to the place where Francis rested at Les Allinges itself was brutal, even with the paved path, so knowing that Francis did it with minimal help really shows his commitment to spreading God’s word and interacting with the people around him. I personally felt a very solemn and calming presence on the hill, and I believe that Francis felt a similar way when he would rest there and look out at the beauty of the area.

JUNE 28, 2024 — THE GALERIE WHERE THE VISITATION BEGAN WITH ST. JANE DE CHANTAL AND HER THREE COMPANIONS IN ANNECY

Charlotte Pollnow (2025)

I felt like the moment of being at the Galerie felt very surreal. It was hard to believe that the building was really Jane’s home. The environment was very peaceful and well-kept which I believe is the exact way Jane would want it. My favorite part of the garden was the giant tree we sat under to pray. The branches and leaves were so full that there was barely any light that shone through. Everything was very serene and I felt like I could feel God’s presence along with Jane’s. I could definitely imagine St. Francis coming to visit the Galerie and spreading his word to the other Sisters.

JUNE 29, 2024 — THE VISITATION MONASTERY WHERE ST. MARGARET MARY ALACOQUE HAD HER APPARITIONS OF THE SACRED HEART OF JESUS AT PARAY-LE-MONIAL

Elizabeth Hernandez (2027)

The churches I saw in Paray were among the most beautiful I’ve ever seen. My favorite was St. Claude la Colombière Chapel because of the beautiful mosaic of Jesus sitting at the throne surrounded by religious figures, such as St. Francis de Sales and Mary. I definitely had a better understanding of the Sacred Heart after being in the places where St. Margaret Mary had her vision. Being at these places helped me realize St. Margaret Mary’s visions are more than just stories but experiences. The churches felt sacred and a place where God was truly worshiped and respected. Prayer in Paray felt more meaningful and reverent because Jesus revealed His Heart to St. Margaret Mary there.

JUNE 30, 2024 — TIME WITH THE SISTERS OF THE VISITATION AT THE BASILICA OF THE VISITATION IN ANNECY

Kat Gau (2025)

Meeting the Sisters was honestly a life-changing experience. We were very lucky that we got to spend time with them twice, the first time being to help them with service around the Visitation Monastery. Immediately, I felt at home with the Sisters, as they were so kind and hospitable. I remember when we were in the entryway courtyard, the Sister who greeted us spoke both French and Spanish. Since my friend Shay from Georgetown Visitation also spoke Spanish, they got to have a fluent conversation with one another. Even though I wasn’t a part of that exchange, it gave me joy to see them connect with each other in that way. My personal favorite moment with them happened when we, and the group that was working inside, were taking snacks out to the other girls working outside. I had a bit of juice and a slice of orange bread that a Sister passed out to me, and when she came around again and offered me another, I politely declined, saying I had already had one. She, however, leaned in, smiled, and said, “Well, you can have another!” This small, seemingly insignificant gesture made me feel so welcome and loved.

The second time we got to spend time with the Sisters, we were actually shown the Vow Book, which is over four hundred years old and contains the genuine signatures of St. Francis de Sales, St. Jane de Chantal, and every single nun that has walked through the doors of the Visitation Monastery, including our own Sisters that visited several years ago. It was hard to conceptualize that their hands touched some of the papers within that book, and they actually wrote upon it with a quill. So often, saints can be turned into unobtainable idols that feel so out of touch from our own humanity. However, seeing their handwriting was an extremely powerful reminder that they, too, were humans who walked the earth and lived imperfect lives. After seeing the scratched out and rewritten pages penned by St. Francis and St. Jane, I will never forget that they were people, just like me, and God wants to guide me to do good in the world, just as He guided them. [Shortened for space]

When I was with the Sisters, I witnessed the pure and simplistic joy that fulfilled them each and every day. I saw the community of support and love that they had with one another that they were so willing to share with us. Even though these Sisters were cloistered, I saw they had a unique and liberating freedom they obtained by giving themselves wholly to the Visitation. I intend to continue living by their example in sharing love and showing the joy of God to those in my community, just as they showed me.

JULY 1, 2024 — RETURN HOME

Maggie Conners (2026)

All the visits to the Basilica with the Sisters stood out to me during this journey. My favorite visit was doing service work with the Sisters in their home. I could tell how joyful they were to see us, pilgrims from our hometowns, coming to visit them in France. This spiritual journey has definitely shifted my understanding of the Visitation Order and what it means to be a part of it.

I see now that the Order calls us to find joy in the simplest areas of our lives and always live in the present moment. I hope to bring back the optimistic attitude of the Sisters to our Visitation home in St. Louis.

Join Visitation Academy on a pilgrimage to France from July 11–20, 2025!

Don’t miss your chance to walk in the footsteps of Sts. Francis de Sales, Jane de Chantal, and Margaret Mary Alacoque. Led by Sister Mary Grace McCormack, VHM, and Dr. Amelia Blanton Hibner (Dean of Mission Integration), this once-in-a-lifetime experience should not be missed!

HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:

Annecy

Birthplace of the Visitation

Thorens

Francis de Sales’ home

Talloires

Francis de Sales’ desired retirement location

Verosvres

Birthplace of Margaret Mary Alacoque

Paray-le-Monial

Monastery of Margaret Mary Alacoque

Moulins

Museum of the Visitation

Bourbilly

Jane de Chantal’s home while married

Monthelon

Jane de Chantal’s home once widowed

SPACES ARE LIMITED. REGISTER TODAY! Use the QR code to learn more and to register.

VISITATION HEART AND MIND MINISTRY

MISSION STATEMENT

The Visitation Heart and Mind Ministry (VHMM) embodies the charism and Salesian values the Sisters have gifted to the St. Louis community since 1833. Providing resources and opportunities for all who wish to immerse themselves further into Living Jesus and the Little Virtues, the VHMM serves the entire Visitation community. With heartto-heart relationships at the center of our interactions, the VHMM seeks to engage, inspire, and educate in a loving and welcoming environment.

VISION STATEMENT

The Visitation Heart and Mind Ministry and its programs invite the community to know and live the Visitation-Salesian charism and share its unique spiritual gifts. The VHMM seeks to provide a collaborative and vibrant culture of Salesian knowledge, history, and practice where all are welcome to embrace their baptismal call to live our faith.

Collect. Preserve. Share.

Amanda Gesiorski, a certified archivist, is the full-time Monastery and Academy Archivist. In the summer of 2018, part of the Monastery was renovated for a state-of-the-art archival facility, which includes archive storage, a work area, and a reading room for researchers.

The Archives’ holdings include over 600 linear feet of documents, photographs, paintings, and artifacts associated with St. Louis Visitation Monastery and Visitation Academy from 1833 to the present. We also have the records for Rock Island Visitation Monastery and school, Villa de Chantal, from 1853 to 1992. The materials tell the history of St. Louis Visitation Monastery and Academy and provide a glimpse into local, national, and world history from the 19th century to the present.

We sat down with Amanda to learn more about the Archives and how community members can get involved.

What does a day in the life of an archivist look like?

Each day is different. I might be doing an oral history interview, digging into the Archives to answer a research request, developing an exhibit or class program, collecting born-digital materials, or processing the records. Processing is one of the most important tasks for Archivists because it prepares a collection for use; this involves rehousing documents in acid-free folders and boxes, doing minor preservation work, and ensuring the materials are organized in an accessible manner for researchers.

What are some extra special things we have in the Archives?

Amazingly, we have materials from the 1600s, including a 1618 edition of A Treatise on the Love of God by St. Francis de Sales (first published in 1616) and a letter written by St. Jane de Chantal.

Our collection also shows the global reach of Visitation. We have a 1946 postcard from Visitation Sisters in Germany thanking our St. Louis Sisters for provisions they sent to support them during

World War II, but also asking for clothing and highly valuable commodities, including sugar, coffee, and chocolate.

When people think of Archives, they may think of lots of paper, but our collection includes many other things, including clothing. We have historic uniforms and a sampling of graduation dresses. We could still use grade school uniforms from the early to mid-1900s and a high school uniform from the 1950s if anyone has one and would like to donate.

We are a school, so how are students involved in the Archives?

I am constantly looking for ways to connect students of all ages with our archival materials. Montessori students have come to learn more about the items in our collection related to Saints Francis de Sales and Jane de Chantal, as well as our Visitation Sisters. Last school year, I did a trivia-based lesson about the history and symbolism in the Chapel for Lower School. For the past few years, during their non-testing week in December, Middle School students have toured the Archives and the former Monastery, during which time they learn what spaces used to be used for by the Sisters, and then they get to play a match-the-picture to blueprint game at the end. Upper School students visit the Archives to see primary sources on topics or periods they are studying in school, such as the Great Depression.

Students also have contributed to our collection of oral histories and have volunteered in the Archives by cataloging items.

Many people have never seen the Archives and may want to visit or look for information from their graduating class or a relative who went to Viz. How can people see the Archives or make a research request?

I am thrilled to welcome members of our community to the Archives. Please contact me to set up a personalized visit.

If you are looking for something specific, it’s best to give me as much information as possible in your initial email. For instance, if you are looking for a great-grandmother, tell me her name, including her maiden name and when you think she attended Visitation or even her birth date, so that I can narrow that part down. This helps me to locate your great-grandmother faster and hopefully give you some exciting information about her.

Are there ways that community members can be involved in or support the Archives?

Absolutely! I think there are three main ways:

Tell your story: We are making a targeted effort to collect oral histories and would love to collect your memories of Visitation.

Donate: We would love to help preserve your treasures from Viz!

If you aren’t ready to part with certain items, such as pictures, we will gladly accept a digital copy that we will make for you.

Volunteer: We could use regular volunteers to help with various projects, from cataloging materials to organizing photographs and newspaper clippings.

To schedule a visit, make a research request, or support the Archives as listed above, contact Amanda Gesiorski, C.A., at archives@vizstl.org or 314-625-9235.

THE MISSION OF THE ST. LOUIS VISITATION ARCHIVES is to collect, preserve, and make available the historical documents and the rare and unique items associated with the St. Louis Monastery of the Visitation and Visitation Academy. As an integral part of the Visitation Heart and Mind Ministry (VHMM), the St. Louis Visitation Archives seeks to further the mission of the VHMM by providing a welcoming space, programs, and resources to support and enrich the unique Visitation Catholic and Salesian Spirituality within Visitation Academy.

LABOR OF LOVE

Marilyn Fitzgerald, former history teacher and new ACF moderator, her husband David, and Christy Hughes, Class of 1972 and mom to Viz alumnae, have spent countless hours in the Archives this past year and will continue to do so in the coming year. This team has been working on a project in preparation for Visitation’s bicentennial celebration. They are looking through primary sources, such as the Vow Book and Obituary Letters, to find as many details as possible about every Sister of the St. Louis Visitation Monastery. The goal is to gather enough information on each woman and then highlight and share her contributions with the Visitation community. The way this information will be communicated is still under consideration.

Although Marilyn, David, and Christy’s undertaking began in preparation for the bicentennial, the Visitation community has already benefitted from their effort. Currently, an exhibition in Heritage Hall entitled Woman Behind the Habit: Profiles of Visitation Sisters is on display. All are invited to the Heart and Mind Center to view this installation. In addition, when it is Marilyn’s turn to lead the group on Salesian Thursdays, she selects a Sister whose Salesian Spirituality story particularly stood out to her to share with the group.

As you can see, Commencement looked a little different at Viz back in the Academy’s early days. The images seen here are taken from the Margaret Conley Morrissey papers #258. Margaret was an alumna of the Class of 1943. These papers are critical because no yearbook was published in the 1940s, and limited student newspapers survived this era. The images provide insights into a Viz student’s life during WWII.

Precious materials such as these help tell the history of Visitation Monastery and Academy and provide a glimpse into local, national, and world history from the Sisters’ arrival in St. Louis from the 19th century to the present.

Academics

If you would like to add to Viz’s historical memory by contributing scrapbooks, photographs, other documents, or artifacts related to your or a relative’s time at Visitation, please consider donating them for preservation within St. Louis Visitation Archives. Viz’s archivist, Amanda Gesiorski, can scan items and return the originals to the donor. Digital donations are gladly accepted as well.

Viz is happy to announce that Joe Morrow was appointed Academic Dean in July 2024. You may recognize the name, as Joe has been a faculty member at Viz since 2012, serving as an Upper School and Middle School social studies teacher. He also served as the Social Studies Department Chair from 2014-2024. Joe is passionate about instilling a love of learning, fostering cooperative teamwork, and creating an engaging and supportive learning environment. We cannot wait to see how this passion translates to this new endeavor.

Why are you excited to begin this role? I am excited to work with the talented faculty and staff of all three divisional schools. This role provides an opportunity to showcase the amazing things that teachers do every day and highlight Viz’s outstanding curriculum, and I am ready to make the most of it. I appreciate the opportunity I have been given in this role as Academic Dean and will work hard to continue developing excellent opportunities for the students and faculty.

What do you want to achieve as the Academic Dean? I want to help advance the school-wide curriculum and special programming through a shared vision from the administration, faculty, and staff. I hope to create additional professional development opportunities tailored to the unique needs of the different divisions, grade-level teachers, and subject matter areas. Drawing upon my 26+ years of teaching experience, I want to position myself as a resource for teachers and staff, supporting them in any way that makes their jobs easier.

How do you think your prior experience prepared you for this role? I have been fortunate to work in many different areas of education, including classroom teaching, athletic director, department chair, and coach. My years of experience in these endeavors have given me diverse experiences and perspectives, which position me well for the Academic Dean role.

What is unique about a Viz education? The Sisters of the Visitation left a framework and mission that helps students gain a holistic and well-rounded education. The Visitation Catholic School mission is evident in everything at Viz. The all-girl school traditions allow the students to feel comfortable being themselves, and the educational rigor prepares each student to meet the challenges of their future lives.

MEET THE NEW ACADEMIC DEAN

Full STEM Ahead

The acronym “STEM” is commonplace today. However, as it relates to education, STEM—science, technology, engineering, and math—is still relatively new territory. As you can see in the report from The World Bank on the facing page, women working in technology and STEM-related fields are even newer territory.

THE HISTORY OF STEM 1

STEM’s development traces back to the Morrill Act of 1862, which created land grant universities to promote agricultural science. The Act later established engineering programs as well. When more land grant institutions emerged, STEM training expanded beyond education and began penetrating the workforce.

World War II brought unprecedented advancements, mainly due to military, business, and academic collaborations. This period yielded innovations such as synthetic rubber, improved transportation, and atomic weaponry, all of which helped win the war.

The 1950s ushered in the Cold War and the space race. President Eisenhower inaugurated the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) in response to Russia’s launch of the Sputnik satellite in 1958. NASA’s establishment didn’t necessarily mark the beginning of U.S. interest in science, but it brought more national attention to science education. President Kennedy’s promotion of scientific advancement contributed to the 1969 moon landing.

The United States continued to see more technological developments throughout the 1970s and 1980s. This period saw the first computers and cell phones. The first artificial heart and the first space shuttle landing invigorated the call for enhanced science education.

The STEM acronym was introduced in 2001 by scientific administrators at the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF). The organization previously used the acronym SMET when referring to the career fields in those disciplines or a curriculum that integrated knowledge and skills from those fields. In 2001, however, American biologist Judith Ramaley, then assistant director of education and human resources at NSF, rearranged the words to form the STEM acronym. 2

1 Source: https://dottierosefoundation.org/2022/09/a-brief-history-of-stem

2 This information was taken directly from the following sources: https://www.stemschool.com/articles/rich-history-ofstem-education-in-the-united-states and https://www.britannica.com/topic/STEM-education.

WOMEN IN STEM

According to a 2024 report by The World Bank published on the WomenTech Network’s website1

Women make up 35% of employees in STEM in the U.S.

The United States’ science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) labor force represents only 25% of the total U.S. labor force.

Women held 35% of tech jobs in the U.S. at the end of 2023.

The gender gap in STEM fields is particularly concerning when it comes to specific academic disciplines. 2

Below are the approx. percentages of women who earned bachelor’s degrees in:

21.3% Computer and information sciences

22% Engineering and engineering technology

35% Economics

39% Physical sciences

1 Source: https://www.womentech. net/women-in-tech-stats# 2 National Science Foundation

STEM IN EDUCATION

The 1990s helped shape classroom teaching curriculums so students in grades K-12 would feel better equipped to tackle a STEM career. STEM curriculum integrates the four disciplines to equip learners with essential skills for a technology-driven world. With a focus on logical thought processes and problem-solving, STEM coursework challenges students to think critically, come up with their own solutions, and develop mental habits that will help them succeed in any field.

In 2009, President Obama introduced the Educate to Innovate initiative, a campaign to increase STEM proficiency among U.S. students over the next decade. The hope was to bring in more federal aid for STEM programs. In addition, Obama aimed to add 100,000 STEM teachers to classrooms by 2021. By 2016, the country exceeded the halfway mark in the initiative’s goal. In 2017, President Trump signed the Inspire Act into law, encouraging more women and girls to pursue aerospace careers under NASA’s wing. 3

3 This information was taken from the following source: https://dottierosefoundation.org/2022/09/ a-brief-history-of-stem.

SYSTEMATIC INITIATIVES AT VIZ

While significant progress has been made over the past twenty-plus years to encourage girls and young women to pursue careers in STEM-related fields, there is still work to be done. Viz is ready and willing to do its part, and we believe it is never too early to start steering young minds in this direction.

Our most recent initiative was the new Outdoor STEM Learning Space — completed in October 2024 — which connects students to nature through play while developing critical thinking, problem solving, and creativity skills and building confidence in STEM subjects. This space helps our students better understand how their learning relates to the outside world. Research shows that children today spend much more time in front of a screen than in outdoor exploration. Increased exposure to green spaces gives children a cognitive boost and improves physical, emotional, and mental health.

The Outdoor STEM Learning Space features Missouri native plants and connects with the Sister Isabel Nature Trail, which winds through woody sections of the southeast corner of campus.

The treehouse and slide are ready and waiting for student exploration.

OUTDOOR STEM LEARNING SPACE

Some elements of the space include:

A Gathering Area (F) where teachers can take their students to read or assemble for class discussions (this area will soon include tables for teachers who want to hold classes outside);

Dirt Digging (I), Water (J), and Loose Parts (K) areas which will contain open-ended materials that encourage design thinking and incorporate simple engineering concepts, such as block sets, logs, log steps, and tree cookies; pods, cones, and botanicals; buckets, shovels, and garden tools; and cascading water tables and mud tables. These materials allow children to create, imagine, disassemble, and make something completely new, all while supporting their connection to the environment;

A Music and Movement area (L) includes a stage where students can perform, making big noises and movements. Students will have access to a marimba, various drums, and rain sticks to help them generate music within nature;

A Treehouse and Slide (M) will be non-traditional, allowing students to take imaginative play to the next level. They can explore the tunnel or build a fort by streaming colorful pieces of fabric together; and more!

While this may be the most recent STEM addition on the Viz campus, it certainly has not been the only investment in STEM Viz has made in recent years. Take a look:

ADDITIONAL STEM SPACES

It is hard to believe Viz opened its maker space ten years ago in a small classroom in the main hallway. In 2019, it moved to a much bigger area on the lower level next to the state-of-the-art food science kitchen, completed in 2018. Both are a short distance from a fully equipped video studio, complete with HD cameras, teleprompter, green screen and suits, tripods, GoPros, microphones, and professional-level editing software. In 2023, this entire area was renamed Concept Corridor fitting as these spaces include all the materials needed for Middle and Upper School students to unleash their creativity. The “freedom of use” model encourages teachers and students to maximize these inviting and innovative spaces, which keep getting better year after year.

The Lower School wanted its own food science kitchen, but in a size and with materials more friendly to Montessori- and Lower School-aged students. This wish was granted in 2020 thanks to an award from The Guth Foundation and some reconfiguration of space in the Lower School Innovation Space classroom. The Innovation Space includes a maker space and a food science kitchen. Both are used in Lower School STEM classes and are available for cross-curricular use by all Montessori and Lower School faculty.

REVVING UP ROBOTICS

The Middle School robotics program received 35 new VEX EXP robots, four worktables with storage, and four carts to house disassembled robots during the 2023-2024 school year. These robots, which were partially funded by generous donations, are instrumental to the Grade 7 computer science curriculum. The girls develop confidence in problem-solving and technical skills by engaging in hands-on robotics projects, breaking stereotypes, and fostering creativity. Students build critical skills for future careers in technology-driven fields through teamwork and experimentation.

The year culminates in a space challenge robotics competition.

Middle School students are not the only ones exposed to robotics. Students in Grade 5 computer science work with animatronics. After researching a provided topic, students go through the engineering design process to build a 3D structure with a fully programmed Hummingbird robotics controller. Their completed structure must include lights, motors, and sensors. In Grade 3 students research an assigned biome (a large geographic unit made up of a community of plants and animals that live in a specific climate), build key features of their biome, place them on a robotics mat, and then program a DASH robot to move through the biome The robot stops and shares facts as it moves across the mat.

At the Upper School level, students who take the Independent Study Engineering Applications-Robotics course experience the application of theory and practice of robotic engineering while working collaboratively on a robotics team in conjunction with Priory—the ViPrs—and compete annually at the FIRST Robotics competition.

This outdoor world of learning space was made possible by The Guth Foundation, Harold F. and Catherine A. Faught, and an anonymous donor. Thank you!

LOWER SCHOOL

Other signature STEM projects in the Lower School include:

GRADE 1

Life Science—Garden Greenhouses: Students learn about the life cycle of a seed and what it needs to fully develop into a plant. They build a tiny greenhouse and plant zinnia seeds in outdoor raised garden beds.

GRADE 2

Life Science—Outdoor Learning: Students observe and document the change of seasons on the Viz campus, specifically, the Gingko tree on the hill in the new Outdoor STEM Learning Space. They diagram the tree during each season, closely observing branches and leaves for change.

GRADE 3

Food Science Kitchen: ELA Integration with Laura Ingalls Wilder novel: Students make and bake bread in a bag.

GRADE 4

Social Emotional Learning (SEL): After experiencing an interactive augmented reality picture book, Peter O’Meter, by Tricia Fuglestad, that focuses on recognizing emotions in others, students create a stop-motion animation of a 2D robot that expresses three feelings.

MIDDLE SCHOOL

In addition to a robust computer science curriculum which includes Foundations of Computer Science in Grade 6, Computational Engineering in Grade 7, and Computational Design in Grade 8, Middle School students also can participate in the Robotics Club called the Clavius Project . The Clavius Project, formed in 2018 by Saint Louis University High (SLUH) students to serve students in the St. Louis community, is a collaboration between students, faculty, and staff to bring STEM education to middle and elementary schools throughout St. Louis. This year is Viz’s second year participating in the program, and proudly is the only all-girls school involved. This program is particularly important because it helps students collaborate with partners to apply practical concepts, tackle design challenges, and achieve success through perseverance and multiple attempts.

UPPER SCHOOL

During the 2023-2024 school year, Josie Janish, Class of 2024, spearheaded and brought a Women in STEM speaker series to fruition as part of the Women in STEM Club at Viz. The first two speakers were Viz alums: Caitlin Hamill ’20, who shared wisdom learned on her path from Viz to a BS in biochemistry from SLU, and Courtney Wilson ’04, Pfizer, Senior Manager Biotherapeutics Pharmaceuticals Sciences Organization, whose presentation, “Oh the Places You’ll Go in STEM (and Helpful Tips to Get you There)” was a tremendous hit with students.

These are just a handful of the many ways Viz students of all ages are encouraged to explore and pursue the world of STEM.

HOSA: A Gateway for Future Health Professionals

Visitation Academy proudly launched a HOSA chapter during the 2023-2024 school year, providing students with an exciting opportunity to explore and prepare for careers in healthcare. The chapter at Viz is the first of its kind at an all-girls high school and the largest in the region, with over 70 students participating.

This initiative aims to equip students with leadership skills, foster professional development, and give them the chance to actively contribute to their communities through healthcare-focused activities.

WHAT IS HOSA?

HOSA is a global organization dedicated to helping students interested in healthcare fields develop leadership skills, pursue educational opportunities, and grow into future healthcare professionals. Unlike traditional school clubs, HOSA operates as a chapter, similar to the National Honor Society, providing a formal and structured way for students to engage in healthcare-related learning and service.

At Visitation Academy, HOSA plays a vital role in exposing our students to a variety of healthcare careers. For example, our “Med Talks” series allows students to hear directly from medical professionals, giving them valuable insights into the world of healthcare. This initiative provides hands-on experience and inspires students to pursue their interests in medical and health-related fields.

CELEBRATING OUR SUCCESS AT THE HOSA STATE LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

In addition to launching a chapter at Viz, we are unbelievably proud of the success our students have already achieved through HOSA. Last year, a group of Viz girls attended the annual HOSA – Future Health Professionals State Leadership Conference, which brought together 962 of the brightest young minds in healthcare from across the state.

Out of this impressive group, five Viz students made it to the top ten! This is a remarkable achievement, showcasing their talent and dedication and the strength of the new HOSA chapter at Viz.

Thank you to Laurie Blanner, Upper School science teacher, for her tireless dedication to bringing HOSA to life at Viz and providing this incredible opportunity to our students. Viz also would like to thank Grace Walsh, Viz nurse, for serving as an advisor—making Viz the only school with a nurse as an advisor, which truly sets us apart. And, of course, we couldn’t be prouder of our students who competed: HOSA President Hannah Houseworth, Class of 2025; Lauren Cleary, Class of 2025; Kat Gau, Class of 2025; Cameron LeGros, Class of 2025; and Emma Synder, Class of 2025. Their hard work and success represent the high caliber of leadership and passion we cultivate at Viz through HOSA.

On November 9, 2024, Viz hosted Vivette Vets and Mini Medical School During this event, students in Grades 1-6 spent the day participating in interactive workshops and activities that introduced them to various healthcare-related career fields. Led by Viz’s HOSA members, participants engaged in hands-on learning and heard from guest speakers working in the medical field. This event, inspired by HOSA president Hannah Houseworth, was a fun and educational experience for all involved. And there are many more exciting things to come!

KICKING OFF 2024-25

Fellowship program

The Fellowship Program at Visitation Academy is an experiential, hands-on learning program that complements and expands the traditional classroom curriculum. It offers students opportunities to explore their passions, interests, and skills outside the classroom, while also fostering a sense of purpose, identity, and community

“Be who you are and be that well

9 10

ACTIVITIES BY GRADE LEVEL

Students complete and reflect on a variety of self-discovery assessments to help them identify their strengths, interests, and academic and career pathways

Students participate in the Fellowship Speaker Series led by alumnae and other community members who will share their academic, personal, and professional journeys

11-12

Students work with a faculty mentor to design their Individual Fellowship Experience They will engage in activities such as independent research, career exploration, projects, or creative pursuits. This experience will allow them to take a deep dive into a subject that sparks their curiosity, helps them gain practical skills, and forge connections with experts. As a culmination of every Fellowship Experience, students will share what they’ve discovered-in a performance, a presentation or a panel with the Visitation Community.

CONTENT AREAS

ROSALIND WISEMAN

GOLF

PUMPKIN

CHALLENGE

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA

Visual & Performing Arts

THE WONDERFUL WORLD OF ART During the 2023-2024 school year, students from Toddlers through Grade 12 utilized their tremendous talents to bring Viz’s Visual and Performing Arts productions to life. Whether playing an instrument, singing a song, or dancing to a choreographed number; performing on stage, building sets, or providing technical direction; drawing, painting, sculpting, or creating ceramic pieces; or engaging in photography or design, the opportunities for our students to be who they are and be that well artistically are never in short supply.

FIELD DAY

SENIOR WALK TREMONT

ROYAL BALL ARCHBISHOP VISIT ANNECY

Music to our Ears

Our sensational Viz vocalists were pitch-perfect throughout their varied performances this past year. From annual engagements like the divisional-level Christmas Concerts, Middle and Upper School Spring Concerts, and all-school Masses to unique opportunities like singing The Star-Spangled Banner at an Ambush game and Take Me Out to the Ball Game during the seventh inning stretch at a Cardinals game and caroling at SSM Health Cardinal Glennon’s “Light Up Glennon” event, we loved hearing the sound of their voices.

Concerts

Special Engagements

WARMING

Production Value

From the Plastics of North Shore High School to the zany residents of The Cloisters to Goldilocks and the rest of the fairytale gang to Nemo, Dory, and their aquatic acquaintances, the production value of the 2023-2024 theatre program could not have been higher.

The Curious Savage

Comedic Play, Upper School

Goldilocks on Trial

Comedic Play, Middle School

Finding Nemo Kids

Musical, Lower School

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE ENTIRE CAST OF CHARACTERS THAT BROUGHT THESE WONDERFUL PRODUCTIONS TO LIFE.

Mean Girls received ten nominations for the seventh annual St. Louis High School Musical Theatre Awards, winning in four categories as noted with an * below.

Outstanding Technical Execution*

The Student Crew led by Ella Kadyk, Class of 2024

Outstanding Set Design and Execution

Jonathan Hartley, Visual and Fine Arts Technical Director

Outstanding Costume Design Caroline Belt, Class of 2024

Outstanding Ensemble

Outstanding Choreography*

Ellen Isom, Dance

Outstanding Musical Direction

Jenn Haney, Music and Choir Director

Outstanding Direction*

Marty Strohmeyer, Visual and Fine Arts Department Chair

Outstanding Supporting Actor Owen Hanford, Chaminade College Preparatory School

Outstanding Supporting Actress Rebecca Mooney, Class of 2024

Outstanding Production*

Girls

Musical, Upper School and Middle School

THIS YEAR’S LINEUP INCLUDED:

Fine Arts Day

Fine Arts Day was first introduced at Viz in 2004. It is a day dedicated to learning about and celebrating the many different forms art can take. The every-otheryear event has become a favorite among students, and this year was no exception.

On Thursday, November 2 , local guest artists, actors, dancers, singers, and other performers were on campus to present workshops to students in Grades 1 through 12.

Grades 7-12 started the day listening to keynote speaker Brock Seals, a local artist and actor. Younger students participated in fun and interactive sessions, including Just Dance Live and Act It Out, to name just two, and were treated to a circus performance.

Middle and Upper School students could choose from 24 sessions that included everything from Latin and tap dance to a song-writing clinic to making Japanese braided bracelets and learning other jewelry-making techniques to a calligraphy tutorial to stage management and acting tactics.

All students attended a “Trashion Show” in Marion Gym to wrap up the day. Grades 1 through 12 students worked hard on their Barbie-themed creations, using only recycled materials to bring their looks to life. It was quite an impressive show!

Hands-On Handiwork

There is always a student art show in conjunction with the Spring Concerts. The creativity of our Middle School and Upper School students was unleashed, and these gifted artists did not disappoint, putting on a fantastic show!

And what better place for these shows to be held than in the new Visitation Art Gallery, unveiled in February 2024. The beautifully remodeled space outside the Costigan Theater provides a dedicated location to showcase student art projects prominently. Exhibitions rotate in and out as they become available. The first two installations were Unsung Heroes with original works created by AP art students, and Art In Science a collaboration with the science department, with works depicting students’ scientific images and models.

In the fall of 2024, the Visitation Art Gallery hosted a special exhibit by Robert Lamont Campbell, Sr. , father of CeCe Schwartz, Upper School Campus Ministry and Theology. CeCe’s father, who sadly passed in December 2023, was a gifted artist, and we are thrilled the family generously shared his gift with our Viz community.

VISITATION ART GALLERY

UPPER SCHOOL MIDDLE

Athletics

Country

How do you get ready for a race? You fuel up at Uncle Bill’s Pancake and Dinner House. At least, that is what the Viz cross country team does every year before the season gets underway. The girls hit the ground running, beginning at the first meet of the year at McNair Park and kept pushing all the way to Districts, where Clare Glisson (Class of 2026) qualified to compete in State competition with a time of 22:58.

Field Hockey

From the Gateway Classic to Districts, the varsity field hockey team faced tough opponents all season. The scores didn’t always end in their favor, but the Vivettes fought hard in every game. Evie Harris (Class of 2026) led the team with goals scored, MaryClare Murray (Class of 2024) led the team in assists, and Isabella Vlaytchev (Class of 2024) killed it in goal. The team made it to the Sweet 16 in Districts but ultimately fell to Cor Jesu.

Clockwise from Top: First Meet (McNair), Clare Glisson, Senior Night, Heidi Kramer at Districts, Setting a Trio of Personal Records, Uncle Bill’s

Top to Bottom: Varsity Team, JV Team, Senior Night, Post-Season Play Pep Talk

MaryClare Murray

Menke Makes the LSC All-Tournament Team

to Bottom: Varsity Team, JV Team, Senior Night

The varsity golf team seemed destined for great things this year when Avery McLaughlin (Class of 2025) got a hole-in-one on #16 at Crystal Spring Quarry before the season officially began. And this is how things played out. The team took the positive momentum from its first place win at the Viz-a-tational tournament in August—going undefeated in all regular-season league matches—all the way to the finish line and a well-deserved State championship title.

GIRLS INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS LEAGUE (GISL)

ALL-CONFERENCE PLAYERS:

PLAYER OF THE YEAR Avery McLaughlin

FIRST TEAM Grace Fagan (Class of 2025), Avery McLaughlin, and Reese Robson (Class of 2025)

Grace also was chosen as the Visitation Academy St. Louis Post-Dispatch scholar-athlete.

SECOND TEAM Abby Winter (Class of 2025)

HONORABLE MENTION Annie Rothery (Class of 2027)

Basketball

CHECK THE SCOREBOARD

What better way to start a new season and stimulate collaborative teamwork than a session with Viz friend and leadership guru Molly Grisham. In addition to league play, the team participated in perennial favorites, including the Viz Christmas Tournament, the Challenge Cup versus Ursuline Academy, and Homecoming. Post-season play was cut short by St. Charles West, with a tough 40-49 loss in the first round of District action.

Doubling up with wins against Clayton High School and St. Dominic High School was an excellent way for the varsity tennis team to kick off a new season. The Vivetttes kept the good times bouncing along with a second place finish at the Parkway West doubles tournament and a couple of exciting victories in league play before landing in District action. Congratulations to senior Flo Eidson, who snagged a fifth-place finish in singles at the MSHSAA State Championships.

GIRLS INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS LEAGUE (GISL) ALL-CONFERENCE

PLAYERS:

PLAYER OF THE YEAR AND FIRST TEAM

Flo Eidson (Class of 2024)

Flo also was chosen First Team All-Metro by the St. Louis Post-Dispatch

SECOND TEAM Catherine Farley (Class of 2026) and Elisa Nunez (Class of 2025)

Racquetball

WHAT’S ALL THE RACKET

The Viz racquetball team had a fantastic year. Lots of new talent joined the team, and the girls made tremendous progress as they played their way through the season, which included multiple tournaments. The team made a strong showing at the seasonending Missouri High School Racquetball tournament and continuously served up joy and fun throughout the year, a definite contributor to an amazing season.

CONGRATULATIONS GOLF STATE CHAMPIONS!

Grace Fagan

Top to Bottom: State Champions, Senior Night Celebration, Hole-in-One, Team Pic, Second Place Day at the Lady Jay Invitational, Post-Season Podcast Premier

Top to Bottom: Varsity Team, Varsity Seniors, JV1 Team, JV1 Seniors

The Team Getting Teed Up for Senior Night, Seniors

Flo Eidson

From Top to Bottom: National Anthem vs. Metro and the First League Win; Team JV2 Ready to Take the Court; Bonding at the College Basketball Experience in KC; Senior Night, All Smiles and a Big Win for the JV Basketball Team, Homecoming, Varsity Team

Swimming DIVE RIGHT IN

Things started swimmingly this season with a fourth-place finish at the Ladue Invitational. The team continued to make a splash with highlights including Ashlyn Canale’s (Class of 2025) second place finish in the 100 Fly at the prestigious Hickman Invitational at the University of Missouri Aquatic Center, the 200 Medley team setting a school record at the GISL league meet, and diver Clara Hugge (Class of 2027) qualifying for State.

ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH

ALL-METRO:

THIRD TEAM Ashlyn Canale

ALL STATE HONORABLE

MENTIONS:

Madison Seabaugh (2026)

Maddie Mug (2027)

Ashlyn Canale (2025)

Mia Moore (2027)

Lacrosse FIELD OF DREAMS

From the last, first game ever for Viz lacrosse seniors to the actual last game of the season for the entire team in the Sweet 16 round of Districts, the Vivettes kept the ball (and the good times) rolling throughout the season. A special shout out to Emma Miller (Class of 2024), who scored her 100th goal, a fantastic way to cap off her high school lacrosse career.

GIRLS INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS LEAGUE (GISL)

ALL-CONFERENCE PLAYERS:

FIRST TEAM Molly Fesler (Class of 2026), Ava Grace McGowan (Class of 2024), Emma Miller, and Margo Newbold (Class of 2026)

SECOND TEAM Evie Harris (Class of 2026), Caelan Vulin (Class of 2026), and Emma Williams (Class of 2025)

HONORABLE MENTIONS Ellie Glarner (Class of 2026), Emily Ward (Class of 2025), and Sarah Ward (Class of 2024)

ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH ALL-METRO:

THIRD TEAM Molly Fesler and Emma Miller

Posting a 4-2 victory was a great way to kick off the varsity soccer season. Then throw in a successful road trip to Cape Girardeau and a win against the Cape Notre Dame Bulldogs, a thrilling 1-0 victory over perennial powerhouse St. Dominic, and a fantastic run in District action. While the Vivettes’ season ended in a loss against Cor Jesu, who ultimately won the Class 3 State Championship, their 12-4 season record is something the team should be very proud of.

Ava Lane-Liwo (Class of 2026) made an impressive showing at the 48th Annual All-Catholic Invitational to get things off and running this season, taking fourth in the 100M. Jumping ahead to the Villa Invitational, Sophie Burgoon (Class of 2025) placed first in the long jump, and Elizabeth Peter (Class of 2027) placed third in the shot put. The team hit the road to Districts held at Montgomery High School, where five Vivettes recorded personal records: Sophie Burgoon — long jump, Ava Lane-Liwo — 100M, Sole Oyenard (Class of 2027) — 1600M, Christina Peoples (Class of 2026) — 200M, and Amelia Ward (Class of 2024) — discus.

Senior Athletes at

Top to Bottom, Left to Right: Team Photo, Ashlyn Canale, Senior Swimmers, First and Fifth in the 50 Free, Prepping for the MICDS Invitational, 200 Medley School Record, Dive Team

Top to Bottom: Team Photo, 8-5 Victory vs. St. Joseph’s at the Seniors’ Last Home Game; 100 Goals for Emma Miller, The Whole Squad on Senior Night, Viz Lacrosse Managers

Left, Top to Bottom: Team Photo, Road Trip, Ready to Face Cor Jesu, Win vs. St. Dominic; Above: Senior Night, JV Soccer Team After a 2-1 Victory Against Summit

Top to Bottom: All-Catholic Invitational, All Smiles at Districts

RED AND WHITE BANQUET

Celebrating

the 2024 Red and White Banquet

Cheerleading

SOMETHING TO CHEER FOR

The Viz cheerleading team has the longest season of all. They perform at numerous events from the beginning to the end of the year, including athletic contests, school assemblies, special appearances, and much more. Here are a few high-flying highlights from their full-of-pep year.

ADDITIONAL ATHLETIC HIGHLIGHTS

Indiana

Hailey Robinson Soccer, University of Southern Indiana

Grace Restovich Soccer, University of Notre Dame

Claire Fulton Rowing, Clemson University

Good Sports

Healthy bodies are equally as important as healthy minds. Viz offers budding athletes a variety of sports. This past year, participants from Kindergarten through Grade 8 at every skill level learned the values of teamwork, sportsmanship, and perseverance. And, of course, they had great fun with their friends in the process.

Middle School options include:

Basketball – Grades 3-5

Cheerleading Field Hockey

Golf

Lacrosse

Soccer

Swimming – Grades 7-8

Tennis

Volleyball

Lower School options include:

Basketball

Cheerleading Clinic – Grades K-5

Golf – Grades 2-5

Soccer – Grades K-5

Tennis Clinics – Grades 1-5

Volleyball – Grades 3-5

Additionally, Viz offers Heart & Sole (Grades

and summer sports camps for students in Grades Kindergarten-5.

Check out this year’s Lower School and Middle School athletics highlight reel:

FALL SPORTS: Field Hockey, Golf, Tennis, and Volleyball (next page)

Heidi Kraemer (Class of 2024) will continue her athletic career at the University of Michigan on the adaptive sports track and field team. Heidi also was the GISL’s Outstanding Sportsmanship Award Winner.

6-8), Girls on the Run (Grades 3-5),

Viz Representing at the GISL National Women in Sports Day Seminar

Our Beloved Owl Mascot Sharing Some Pretty Good Company

Above: Bringing the Energy on Show Me St. Louis The Last Hurrah for Seniors Left, Top to Bottom: Team Photo, Rising to the Challenge at the Challenge Cup, Gearing Up to Take the Field at an Ambush Soccer Game

College

Anna Huber Soccer, Rockhurst University Grace Fagan Golf, Wesleyan University

Middle School Field Hockey Team

School Golf Team

The Full Court of Tennis Players

FALL SPORTS: Volleyball

SPRING SPORTS: Heart & Sole/Girls on the Run, Lacrosse, and Soccer

WINTER SPORTS: Basketball, Cheer Clinic, and Swimming

Team 8G Red

Lower School Students on a Practice Run

Middle School Students Prepping for a 5K

School Lacrosse Team

Team 6G

Team 8G Red

Kindergarten Soccer

Team 7G Red

Team 7G White

Middle School Swim Team Lower School Cheer Clinic

Team 5G

Team 8G White

7G Red

Alumnae News

Rebecca Danis Webb ’02 , Public Affairs Officer at the US Embassy in La Paz, Bolivia, visited campus in fall 2023 to speak with Upper School students about her amazing journey. Rebecca was commissioned as a foreign service officer in 2008 and previously completed public diplomacy assignments in Peru, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Rwanda, in addition to a consular tour in Guatemala.

In Washington, Rebecca has served as Acting Director of the Office of Religion and Global Affairs and as a Crisis Management Officer in the State Department Operations Center. She holds a bachelor’s degree in international health from Georgetown University, a master’s in bioethics from Pontifical Athenaeum Regina Apostolorum in Rome, and a master’s in military studies from Marine Corps University. Before joining the Foreign Service, Rebecca was an EMT and ambulance driver in Washington, DC. Her husband also is a foreign service officer serving in Bolivia, and they have two young children.

Congratulations to Wendy Wiese, Viz Class of 1979. Wendy has been a St. Louis media mainstay for over 34 years. She began her career at KMOX, then KTRS, and has been a panelist on the popular Donnybrook program on KETC since 2003. Wendy also received the Ohio State Radio and Television News Directors Award and Missouri Broadcasters Association Award and was inducted into the Missouri Broadcasters Hall of Fame on May 31, 2024. Keep on being who you are and being that well, Wendy!

If you want to watch Wendy give her acceptance speech, you can find it at https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=7wM1yLmOgfc.

Rev. Kathryn Beilke ’03 joined Beyond Plastics, a nationwide nonprofit project based at Bennington College, as the organization’s first-ever interfaith partnerships coordinator. Kathryn is an ordained minister in the Presbyterian Church (USA). She will use her organizing, advocacy, communications, and development experience to connect Beyond Plastics with worshiping communities and faith-based organizations. We love seeing our alums embracing service to the community. Congratulations, Kathryn!

Laura Jablonski, Class of 2010, has made the jump from Vivette to Queen. While attending the Queen’s Ball in Ste. Genevieve, in February of 2024, Laura decided that queen was a role she could certainly fill. During the event, she had to find the baby in the King’s cake to earn the position. After her discovery, Jablonski led the promenade dance and was honored in a coronation ceremony, which included a walk through a tunnel of swords. She was crowned by the previous year’s queen, beginning her year-long reign.

The French-inspired celebration, dating back more than 200 years, traditionally involves selecting a king in the same manner. The king would then select his queen, and together, they reign over the year’s festivities. In 1996, the women of Ste. Genevieve decided that every leap year, women should get a chance to find the baby and become queen. As a result, the King’s Ball becomes the Queen’s Ball every four years. All hail Queen Laura!

TELL US WHAT

YOU ARE UP TO

We are always interested in hearing what our fabulous Viz alums are up to. Please use the following QR code to access our Keeping in Touch With Viz form, and you might see your name in the next issue. And bonus, when you fill out the form, we will mail you a Viz alumnae t-shirt.

2024–2025 Visitation

Alumnae Association Board

President

Christine Marino Mulford ’09

Vice President

Mary Beth Schwartz ’95

Treasurer Carolyn Soke Skowyra ’99

Recording Secretary

Kelly Anderson Erlinger ’10

Corresponding Secretary

Vivian Mera Van Bogaert ’00

Hospitality

Molly Harper Pryor ’10

Alex Schenk ’10

Young Alumnae Liaison

Tillie Killeen ’22

ACF Moderator

Kathryn Tucker Snodgrass ’69

Ex-Officio

Susan Mogab ’69

A special thank you to these outgoing VAA board members for their service to their beloved alma mater:

Ellie Hillenbrand ’21

Linda Cary Hinshaw ’81

Susan Mogab ’69

Cassidy Re ’13

Michelle Vieth Zarrilli ’89

Say Hello to Viz’s New Director of Development

If you would like to get involved with the Visitation Alumnae Association, please reach out to VAA president Christine Marino Mulford at christinemarino7@gmail.com.

Please join us in congratulating Emily Gardiner on her new role as Director of Development. While Emily is new to the Advancement Department, she is not new to Visitation Academy, having served as the Middle School and Upper School administrative assistant and the “face” of the school at the main door entrance since January 2022.

While fundraising is central to this position, Emily also handles alumnae relations. She is excited to get to know our alumnae and work closely with the Visitation Alumnae Association. If you would like to connect with Emily, she would love to hear from you—egardiner@vizstl.org.

CATCHING UP

Over the course of several weeks in the fall of 2023, Head of School David Colón hit the road, stopping in Dallas, Denver, Washington DC, New York City, and Boston to connect with Viz alumnae and provide opportunities for alums to connect with each other.

He even brought a few special guests on his journey: retired Viz faculty members Barb McMullen, Chandra Rednam, Marilyn Fitzgerald, and Greg Schweizer. We hope the alumnae who were able to attend these events enjoyed them as much as David and the crew did!

Crescent Catch Ups for 2024–2025 are well underway. We have already visited Kansas City and Chicago, and more stops are planned. Make sure to follow us on social media — facebook.com/VizAcademyAlumnae and @VizAlumnae — for more information.

DALLAS NEW YORK WASHINGTON, DC

DENVER

2024 Reunions

There were smiles for miles at the 2024 Alumnae Reunion held on June 8, 2024. Coincidentally, June 8 also was National Best Friends Day, and what better way to celebrate than in the company of fellow Viz sisters?

The day began with a luncheon at the MAC, followed by Mass in the Chapel at Visitation. Guests were then treated to a reception in DeChantal Hall. The Classes of 1974 and 1999 received their 50-year full moon and 25-year crescent pins during the luncheon, and Laura Adams Fister ’79 and Trish Roth Goldberg ’74 were recognized as the two St. Jane de Chantal Award winners.

The annual recipients of this award are selected by a committee based on the nomination letters received. Here are the two letters received on Laura and Trish’s behalf.

Laura Adams Fister ’79

Laura Fister has demonstrated her personal, active faith in God every day that I have known her. Whether it’s through waking up and reading the Jesuit Daily Inspiration app or through her actions as a teacher at Bishop DuBourg High School, Laura demonstrates her love of God with cheerfulness and hope. Laura has a way of integrating faith seamlessly into everyday life and sharing it…we jokingly call her the “walking book of Saints” because she can name one every day. She also might do this by tending her Mary garden, leading a prayer before meals, or counseling a troubled student.

Laura has utilized her potential professionally as a French teacher, leading student tours to France, teaching college-credit classes, and overseeing the French Club and the French Honor Society. She also has blended her interests with her work, renewing a long-dormant Sewing Club at DuBourg and establishing a raised-bed garden of flowers and vegetables. Last week, she received the 2024 Heart of Bishop DuBourg Award, the school’s top faculty/staff award.

Laura has contributed to the community and shared her gifts with others. In college, she was a volunteer tutor in an underserved St. Louis neighborhood. Later, she served on the board of Gateway to Gardening (now Seed St. Louis).

Over the years, she has worked as a volunteer in many City of St. Louis neighborhood events, from cleanups and plantings to house tours. Raising eight kids provided many opportunities for community and school service — from serving as a Brownie Leader to running a snack bar for grade-school basketball games and hosting spaghetti dinners for her son’s high school cross country team.

Laura exemplifies characteristics of Salesian Spirituality in many ways. She is a Visitation Associate and member of the Association of Christian Faithful. She has served Viz in other ways over the years, including volunteering in the campus ministry office and helping to run the summer VISTORY program. She has recently found a calling by helping to give retreats and talks at the Marianist Retreat Center. But she probably does this best as the mother of eight children and grandmother to seven — making sure they feel loved, supported, and know God’s love — whether through her words or actions.

Laura was nominated by her husband, Jeff Fister.

Trish Roth Goldberg ’74

I wish to nominate my classmate and friend, Trish Roth Goldberg, for this year’s St. Jane de Chantal Distinguished Alumna Award. This award is for someone who has distinguished herself with service, loyalty, and community involvement.

Trish has exemplified these qualities through her faith and actions throughout her adult life. She has always loved her Mary Queen of Peace (MQP) parish and has shown her commitment to this community by serving as President of the Women’s League, welcoming parishioners as a Sunday greeter, and helping with the Lenten fish fry. Trish attends Mass at least three times per week, participates in Cornerstone Bible study, is part of the ACTS team and a member of a weekly faith-sharing group, and participates in Adoration. She also has sponsored multiple blood drives and helps raise money for community service groups by coordinating a yearly parish trivia night.

Her strong faith and sense of service have guided her to help not only at MQP but the larger St. Louis community. From God’s creatures to us mere mortals, she is there. The Humane Society counts on her as a dog walker every Thursday. She is an events volunteer, ambassador, and tour guide for the St. Louis Zoo.

Feeding the hungry and homeless at St. Patrick’s Center weekly, as well as making and serving dinner at St. Vincent de Paul’s on a monthly basis, are part of her schedule.

These are just some of the ways in which she allocates her time. This does not even touch on the countless hours volunteering and raising money for special community events such as auctions, driving seniors to doctor’s appointments, etc. God has blessed and given Trish many talents. She uses them graciously and humbly in her life’s work for God and others.

Trish was nominated by her Viz classmate, Mimi Concannon Butler ’74.

Breakfast with Santa – December 7

This annual event is a perennial favorite among the Viz community. Come see Mr. and Mrs. Claus and enjoy breakfast treats, holiday-themed crafts, and activities.

Fabulous Fox Raffle

Visit our events page (scan the QR code) to purchase raffle tickets to win seats in the Owner’s Box for Six the Musical This Fabulous Fox package includes ten tickets and two parking passes. (Food and drink not included.)

$20 per raffle ticket or $50 for three tickets. The show runs January 21–February 2, 2025. (Show date to be determined.)

The VAA works closely with Visitation Academy to create engaging ways for alums to get involved. The goal of everything the VAA does is to strengthen the bonds of sisterhood.

Girls Schools Unite Annual Campaign – May 2025

Save the date! Back by popular demand, Visitation will participate in one of the hottest campaigns of the year, Girls Schools Unite. There will be three days in May when you can show your Viz spirit while competing against other all-girls Catholic high schools. The school that gets the majority of alumnae to donate during those three days will win bragging rights. Keep an eye out for more details in early 2025!

Alumnae Reunion 2025 – Saturday, June 7, 2025

We also would love to see our alumnae out in force at the 2025 Safari Dinner and Auction on February 22, 2025.

We are excited to announce Crescent Connection

a new alumnae networking platform created just for you!

From connecting with classmates, finding alumnae in your hometown, mentoring and employment opportunities, helping with Greek life options, and more, Crescent Connection is an incredible tool for our alumnae community. Join Crescent Connection today and see the tremendous value our new network offers. This is your one-stop shop for all things alumnae-related!

Join today: https://vizstl.alumnifire.com

It's free to use, and you can sign up using your existing LinkedIn or Facebook account. It takes just minutes to sign up!

In Memoriam

OCTOBER 2023 – JULY 2024

Mary Jo Hannon Alms ’64*

Deborah Sypniewski Heffern ’74

Mary Carmody Hodapp ’68

Virginia McConnell Klamon ’44

Nancy Frederick Lawton ’49

Rita Schenk Lusignan ’67

Mary Lou McConnell Mazzocchio ’46

Helen Walsh Miller ’42

Jane Maginnis Musick ’43

Ann Weinkauff Nickerson ’60

Diane Ragsdale ’84

Margaret Connors Rotter ’66

Bernice Rubinelli ’53

* Mary Jo Hannon Alms passed away at the end of September 2023 after publishing the last In Memoriam listing.

VISITATION ACADEMY is an independent Catholic school that encourages students to develop their unique gifts in an environment that values excellence in scholarship, spirituality, leadership, and service. Viz proudly offers a coeducational early childhood program and all-girl environment in Grades 1–12.

THE LOWER SCHOOL educates Toddler through Kindergarten-aged boys and girls in the Montessori method while also providing the area’s only all-girl program in Grades 1–5.

A welcoming environment, small class sizes, and the integration of technology throughout the curriculum provide a strong educational foundation.

THE MIDDLE SCHOOL builds a bridge from childhood to young adulthood. The Middle School curriculum is centered on the developmental readiness, needs, and interests of girls in Grades 6–8.

THE UPPER SCHOOL offers a rigorous, four-year college preparatory curriculum for young women in Grades 9–12. A vibrant fine arts program, numerous service opportunities, and more than 28 clubs and organizations complement the Academy’s commitment to academic excellence.

Viz girls are poised, intelligent, self-assured young women positioned for success in our classrooms, in college, and in life.

For more information regarding admission to Visitation Academy, please contact Sharon Conley Spellman ’89, Director of Admissions, at 314-625-9102.

visitationacademy.org

3020 N. Ballas Road

St. Louis, MO 63131

314-625-9100

visitationacademy.org

FACEBOOK facebook.com/VizAcademy facebook.com/VizAcademyAlumnae facebook.com/VizAthletics TWITTER / X @ VizAcademy @ VizAthletics

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