Mrs Ashley Meyers, P ’24, ’26, shares the story of Main Line Fashionista
VILLA OWNED BUSINESSES COLLEGE STUDENT-ATHLETE ADVICE
Ella Cellini ’25 balances academics and Division 1 athletics at the University of Delaware >>> Page 12 >>>
>>> Page 08
Students debate the characters in record-breaking television show and book series: “The Summer I Turned Pretty ” >>> Page 11
Principal Dr Jane Hannon enters into her new position at Villa Maria Academy High School
Executive Editor-in-Chief, Villa Life Section Leader
Dr Jane Hannon was born outside of Cleveland Ohio She attended Magnificat High School, an all-girls high school in Rocky River, Ohio She majored in English at Fordham University before going on to the University of Notre Dame, where she majored in history
Hannon originally wanted to be a college professor, but after reflecting on her high school experience, she decided to pursue a career in high school education She began working at Fordham Preparatory School, an all-boys school in the Bronx, New York Hannon taught there for seven years and then went on to teach history and English for thirteen years at a Catholic all-
girls school in Washington D C
Before coming to Villa Maria Hannon was an assistant principal at a co-ed, archdiocesan high school in Alexandria, Virginia
Hannon’s teaching career began on September 11, 2001 in New York, making the transition into a new school year difficult for both herself and her students Her first two years in education were a challenge, as she both adjusted to her role as a teacher and navigated the lack of normalcy in a post 9/11 world and classroom
Hannon’s own high school experience inspired her to pursue education “[Magnificat High School]
really reminds me of Villa in a lot of ways ” she said
Both Hannon s alma mater and Villa Maria have the presence of religious Sisters, a strong community, and an abundance of traditions For Hannon, high school was a time where she was not only able to recognize her potential, but also the potential of her classmates She still remains in touch with her former classmates and other students who graduated from Magnificat High School by attending as many of the reunions as she can Hannon has formed friendships with graduates who currently reside on the East Coast, including with individuals who did not attend
Learning to root for one another: Student Council lays foundation for success
Student Council President Anne Gentilotti ’26 and Vice President Sophia Tray ’26 work to create an environment of growth for the student body and learn how to be effective leaders in their positions
Maggie McHale ’26
Executive Editor-in-Chief
In May of 2025, Anne Gentilotti ’26, Sophia Tray ’26, Annie Strehlau ’26, Keira Carroll ’26, and Marita Irvine ’26 were elected as the Student Council Executive Officers for the 2025-2026 school year
Gentilotti attended a large, public middle school before coming to Villa Maria and at first did not envision herself as a leader Freshman year she took a risk and ran for Class President She served in that position for three years before becoming Student Body President
“I have really felt committed to the student body and always want to improve and do more for them I think being an exec really gives me more power to do that,” Gentilotti said Tray also ran for a Student Council position freshman year She was inspired by the seniors who served as Student Council Executive Officers to run for Class Vice President
Magnificat High School at the same time as her Throughout her time in education, Hannon was not specifically focused on entering into a principal position She enjoyed being involved in bigpicture conversations and helping come up with innovative solutions
“A lot of that is really setting goals for the school and seeing what are the resources we have and the gifts people have that we are not using that we could be using,” Hannon said When Hannon came to Villa Maria eventually in pursuit of a principal position the hospitality she was met with stuck with her She could tell Villa Maria was a
>>> Continued on page 08
Dancing with purpose: Villa Maria dancers support breast cancer awareness
Villa Maria Academy’s Dance Program participates in Unite for Her’s event, Dance for
Reporter On Sunday, October 19, 2025, Villa Maria Academy’s Dance Program participated in Dance for Her at West Chester University Their performance marked their third year as a part of the event Unite for Her is a foundation dedicated to providing support resources and care to those affected by breast cancer Christie Lawler Dance Program Coordinator believes in the significance of Villa students supporting this cause
It is a really important cause to support, and it is a great way to continue our Villa mission of spreading love and creative hope,” Lawler said
“When I look back at the leaders that were execs for us I could always envision myself being one of them,” Tray said Like Gentilotti, Tray served in her Class Officer position for three years before becoming an Executive Officer Along with the other Student Council Executive Officers, they play an important role in helping Villa Maria operate as it does
“The purpose of Student Council is to bridge the gap between students and administration, so students are receiving what they would actually want to see on
campus,” Gentilotti said “We’re the leaders of the school, so we set the example for everyone else ” Tray said Each year, the Student Council Executive Officers choose a theme to guide the Student Body When they were brainstorming a theme, ideas of connection and growth were continually mentioned Ms Madeline Harkins Vice Principal of Institutionalized Culture encouraged the Student Council Executive Officers to take a different approach Rather than choosing a phrase as done in previous years they decided on a single word: Roots The “Roots” theme holds many different meanings The acronym “FNDA” is being used to
describe the specific meaning the theme holds for each grade The “F” represents the freshmen finding their roots and their people The N represents the sophomores nurturing their roots what they have so far, and continuing to look for more
The D” represents the juniors defining their roots and who they are The “A represents the seniors appreciating their roots and what Villa Maria has done for each of them
“Looking back on my years at Villa, I have really enjoyed every second of it ‘Appreciating’ signifies how much Villa has meant to me,
>>> Continued on page 05
The event raises money through ticket sales and donations, with all the proceeds going directly to Unite for Her The foundation provides wellness programs treatments and support for women facing breast cancer
The overall positive vibe of the whole event and to see dancers support each other, then to know that they are supporting a cause that is greater than just dancing [is special],” Lawler said
Past events have left lasting impressions One highlight came when all of the dancers, wearing pink shirts stood together at the end of the show to take a united bow
This year brings a meaningful addition: each participating group can submit names of people they are dancing for, ensuring that people's loved ones are honored throughout the event For Villa Maria Dance this hits close to home Vice Principal of Institutional Culture Ms Madeleine Harkins, a breast cancer survivor, spoke at the event, and the dancers dedicated a performance to her
Maggie McHale ’26, Victoria Eidam ’27
Dr JaneHannon//Lifetouch
Caroline Eidam ’29 walks in New York and Paris Fashion Weeks
VILLA LIFE
Former NFL intern switches gears to help high school athletes
Villa Maria Academy High School welcomes new Athletic Trainer and Assistant Athletic Director Ms. Julia Rose.
Erin Foy ’26
Senior Villa Life Section Leader
Before coming to Villa Maria
Ms Julia Rose worked as an athletic training intern for the Buffalo Bills and as a temporary athletic trainer for the track and field team at her alma mater West Chester University
She found herself at Villa Maria after the Athletic Trainer and Assistant Athletic Director position was highly recommended to her by athletic training connections and other mentors
“Ever since my first steps on campus, everyone has been so welcoming and kind I knew this was going to be a great place to grow and learn from so many knowledgeable people ” Rose said Villa Maria’s welcoming environment has made for a smooth transition for Rose One of the major challenges she faces in her position on a daily basis is having to balance the ratio between athletes and athletic trainers
“No matter what setting you are working in, as an athletic trainer we want to make sure each of our athletes are getting the best care and treatment for any injury,”
Rose said As an athletic trainer, she is not only a part of an athlete's treatment but also part of the recovery process from beginning to end
“Being a part of their returnto-play journey and watching them come back to participate in the sport they love is incredibly rewarding,”
Rose said Outside of work her favorite hobbies include exercise, like going to the gym or running You can find Rose outside often, as she loves to garden and take her dog for walks Rose also enjoys spending time with her family and friends
Professional graphic designer begins new career in education
Villa Maria Academy High School welcomes new Computer Science and Graphic Design teacher Ms. Sandra Ulikowski.
Ms Sandra Ulikowski currently teaches Digital Media Freshmen Seminar and Graphic Design at Villa Maria She attended Kutztown University and graduated in 2000 with a Bachelor’s in Fine Arts After college Ulikowski was a professional graphic designer for twenty-five years
She also worked in art directing and brand management for various different industries Ulikowski had her own business for about seven years and worked for many different schools and companies While working as a graphic designer, Ulikowski wanted something more
“I decided that I would go back to school to get my
teacher certificate and master so that I could teach graph design at a high school an college level ” Ulikowski said She finished her degree at th end of December 2024 an began teaching at Villa Maria August 2025
“Everyone here has been kind, patient, and welcoming Ulikowski said Throughout her time at Vi Maria thus far, she has been able to see the core values in action
“Mostly at the assemblies, but I see it I feel a sense of community and sisterhood I get the sense that everyone feels they belong, Ulikowski said As the school year progresses, Ulikowski is looking forward to getting to know the Villa Maria community better
Villa Maria welcomes I.H.M. Sister
Sister Elaine deChantal Brookes joins the Villa Maria Academy High School community
Monica Young ’26, Maeve McGinley ’28
Editor-in-Chief Pop Culture Section Leader
Sister Elaine deChantal Brookes, dining hall moderator, is one of several new faculty members at Villa Maria this year Prior to her assignment to the high school she served as Local Superior at Villa Maria House of Studies
Right before I came to Villa, I was at our Mother House,” Brookes said “I was what they called the Local Superior there, meaning I was in charge of sixty Sisters who were in the convent there ”
Brookes joined the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary at a young age and considers her participation in the community to be one of the most central parts of her life
“I think I am most passionate about my life in the IHM community Since I was 18 years old when I entered, it has been a special part of my life,” Brookes said “I certainly enjoy being in community living with the Sisters and being here at Villa it’s a very lovely local community”
Outside of her role as an IHM Sister, Brookes finds joy in spending time with loved ones and fun leisure activities
“I enjoy watching sports I really enjoy life and I enjoy being with my family I have a number of nieces and nephews and grands, Brookes said
While having spent only a short amount of time at Villa so far Brookes has had a positive experience and impression of the community
There is a lot of spirit here, a lot of energy, and I also see a lot of young women who are really focused on their faith and their education and that’s really very special,” Brookes said Brookes is grateful for her assignment to the high school and for the welcoming nature of the many people she has met
“Every person here the students the faculty the administration everyone’s been very wel i B k id A d I f l i ht t ho
New sister has entered the Villa
I.H.M. Sisters inspire teacher to pursue career in religious education
Ms Josephine Gandolfo has worked as a teacher administrator, and campus minister in various different schools She taught at the Academy of Notre Dame de Namur for almost twenty years Gandolfo also worked at Bishop Eustace Preparatory School and Archbishop John Carroll High School before coming to Villa Maria
She grew up in Northeast Philadelphia, in close proximity to a convent and several churches As a result the Church played a major role in her life from an early age The presence of religious life at Villa Maria drew Gandolfo to the school
Sister Tracey Uphoff, math teacher and club coordinator, joins the Villa Maria Community
Reese Escobar ’27 Sports Section Leader
Sister Tracey Uphoff is an Immaculata graduate who loves teaching calculus chemistry and her faith She was inspired to choose the religious life due to her Catholic upbringing and twelve years of Catholic schooling
“Religion was always something in my life and I wanted to be involved in my faith, Uphoff said In high school, she worked in her local parish office answering phones The priests often told her she should become a Sister though Uphoff was not
fully aware what Sisters did or if they were even still a part of the Church
Her perspective shifted when she attended Immaculata University and had many young professors who were Sisters
“They were just so happy and so joyful, but they were also so smart and had advanced degrees ” Uphoff said “This is what I feel like God is calling me to do ”
Uphoff has always known she wanted to be a teacher, but it was not until high school that she decided she wanted to become a math teacher
“In first grade I wanted to be a first
grade teacher, second grade, a second-grade teacher, and so on and so on Math has always been my favorite subject High school was when I kind of put it together I said, Okay, I want to be a high school teacher And I'm pretty sure I want to do math,” she said Uphoff’s passion also extends beyond math as she has a minor degree in chemistry However, Math is my first love, she said
“The I H M s have always been an important part of my life I strongly believe in single-sex education, and I wanted to be in a community that values that and faith,” Gandolfo said She currently teaches Catholicism and Social Justice Her passion for serving and helping others, along with her faith is reflected in how she interacts with her students
“I love to teach the Wor God and provoke students think ” Gandolfo said Despite only working Villa Maria for a few mon she has already seen sisterhood in action
“You can see the strong sisterhood so easily here Everyone helps one another and just laughs with everyone The first pep rally really showed it ” Gandolfo said Beyond the sisterhood, the environment of Villa Maria has made for a smooth transition into Gandolfo’s new position
“Everyone has been so nice, which is not always common,” Gandolfo said “It’s been really nice to see how helpful and welcoming everyone is ”
Uphoff’s focus as an educator is to end the negative stigma surrounding math and to continue to encourage her students I want my students at the end of the year to say, I did this and I can do math ” As she has been settling into her new position at Villa Maria she has noticed the friendly and welcoming environment that together creates a distinct culture
“I love it I feel like I'm almost back home” Sister Tracey said
Ms JuliaRose//Lifetouch
Molly Manning 26, Caroline McRee 27 Senior Villa People and Faculty Section Leader, Reporter
Ms SandraUlikowski//LindaRyan
Ms Josephine Gandolfo, theology teacher, joins the Villa Maria Academy High School community
Molly Manning ’26 Senior Section Leader
Ms JosephineGandolfo//LindaRyan
SisterElainedeChantalBrookes//Lifetouch
SisterTraceyUphoff //Lifetouch
VILLA LIFE 3
Alumnae return to their alma mater: Homecoming at Villa Maria
The Villa Maria Academy High School community unites in a day filled with traditions, sports, activities, and sisterhood Lucy Vanderslice ’27, Sarabella Firkin ’28
Reporters
Villa Maria’s Homecoming is a cherished tradition that reflects the school s rich history, strong sense of community, and enduring school spirit Rooted in decades of celebration Homecoming brings together students, alumnae, faculty, and families to honor the legacy of Villa Maria while creating new memories From sports games to barbecues, the event symbolizes unity and pride in the school’s mission and values Over the years this tradition has evolved, yet it continues to serve as a meaningful reminder of the bonds that tie the Villa Maria community together across generations
“One of my favorite parts of Villa is the community Homecoming is a perfect example of that community, as it reminds you that I am part of a legacy bigger than just my class,” Lizzie Honold ’26 said
One of the most exciting and most anticipated parts of this event is the Villa Maria sports games that play throughout the day Field hockey, soccer, and volleyball all gave incredible performances at
Villa Maria takes th
Villa Maria Academy High School’s ann
Emily Cognato ’28 Anne Gentilotti ’26
Reporters
Lula Meyers ’26 worked behind the scenes to help prepare for the annual Mother-Daughter Fashion Show
She told everyone to “Be ready to cheer on the seniors during their final Mother Daughter Fashion Show as well as wipe away some tears of joy A percentage of the proceeds goes back to the school,” Meyers said This fashion show tradition is altered every year as the crew looks for new styles and accessories to showcase on the runway enticing a variety of vendors
“This season we mixed in animal prints and colored jeans as well as many Villa approved teenager looks,” Meyers said She predicted the “trendy, timeless, and perfectly priced” accessories would sell out first
The event showcased a local designer who had not attended in years past Each outfit was personally curated to match the mother-daughter duo's personality
Meyers was committed to ensuring each participant felt comfortable and confident in the outfit they would wear on the runway
Homecoming 2025, with all three teams winning their games, including memorable moments such as Caitlin Connell ’26 scoring her 200th goal
It is a common occurrence for Villa Maria alumnae to return to see their Villa Maria sisters and teachers, building a sense of sisterhood and community across generations of students Homecoming is an event for Villa Maria girls of all ages and is an event both current students and alumnae take part in and enjoy
“During homecoming, you can see how much we support one another through cheering on the sports teams, talking with alums we haven’t seen in a while and enjoying a day of celebrating our school community,” Honold said
“From curating the Boutique to assisting each outfit choice, to coordinating fittings and accessories, I am hands-on every step Scheduling so many busy moms and daughters for fittings was definitely a challenge, but it was worth every late night to see it all come together” Meyers said This is the third year Meyers has helped with the Mother-Daughter Fashion Show
It’s more than a fashion show it’s a memorymaking event for families and our community I was so happy to see everyone there, Meyers said
day, October 26, 2025
Strike a pose: Villa Maria student pursues modeling career
Caroline Eidam ’29 walks in New York and Paris Fashion Week
Victoria Eidam ’27
Growing up, Caroline Eidam ’29 always enjoyed fashio whether it was picking out an outfit to go out with friends watching red carpets Along with her love for fashion, she quick developed a love for the stage In fifth grade, she performed in h school s musical, marking the beginning of her journey in th public eye
“I loved being on stage when I was little I originally starte by doing musicals, and then I wanted to take it to the next step, I thought about finding a modeling/acting agency From there was signed with a local agent called MainLine Models and Talen
She started out with modeling classes focusing on runway etiquette, including posture, appearance, posing, and her walk After several months of practice, she was selected by her agency to attend the International Models and Talent Association’s Convention in New York City, a week-long event filled with seminars and workshops for aspiring talent After attending IMTA, she got call backs with a dozen agencies and ended up signing with three
Soon after, Eidam found a casting call for a local studio by the name of Willow Bean Studio She was given an offer to walk in New York City Fashion Week A few weeks later she was given an offer to walk in Paris Fashion Week
“I was over the moon excited because when I originally saw the casting call, I didn't really know what to expect, Eidam said
Walking in both New York and Paris Fashion Week was an unforgettable experience for her She described the backstage environment as “chaotic but thrilling ” as it was filled with other models, last-minute touchups, and an energetic atmosphere
“For me, the day of my shows in Paris Fashion Week was extremely busy, Eidam said “I woke up, got breakfast, and immediately headed to the venue for hair and makeup, where I got a slicked-back bun From there I did practice runs on the runway and waited for the show”
After her first show she sprinted to a salon down the street to get her hair blown out She then returned to the venue for more hair and makeup prep for her next show
“Because there was such a small gap between shows, I was getting my hair and makeup done while the show had already started ” she said “I walked in my last show and then went straight to a photoshoot on a bridge by the Eiffel Tower at night ” While she was in New York and Paris, Eidam was inspired by the Villa Maria community waiting back at home Now in the United States she feels as if the experience was almost surreal as she thinks back to the shows
“It was so nice to know that everyone supported me and genuinely cared about how it went,” Eidam said It was so crazy to sit back and realize recently I was in New York Fashion Week and now I m sitting in Mr King s class
Students spend summer exploring future career paths
Maeve McGinley ’28, Anna Gunn ’26, Katherine Cronley ’26, and Reese Barwick ’26 conducted research and completed internships at universities and companies
Madison Scaggs ‘27
Social Media Manager, Junior Copy Team Leader
Maeve McGinley
Maeve McGinley ’28 studied at the University of Pennsylvania Her studies focused on cancer multiplication at the molecular level, while she also conducted a study on opioid and cocaine addiction using mice andrats.Herfindingswerethenpresented.
While her time studying at the University of Pennsylvania was rewarding,italsocamewithchallenges
“The workload [was the most difficult part], with most days running from 8:00 a m to 5:00 p m , combined with living in a completely differentenvironment,”McGinleysaid
McGinley’s goal was to better understand two common diseases, cancer and addiction, which are significantly shaping public health concernsandimpactingcountlesslivesacrosstheworld
“I want to continue pursuing medicine and build on the knowledge and skillsIhavegained,”McGinleysaid
Anna Gunn Katherine Cronley
Anna Gunn ’26 participated in an internship at KPMG in Philadelphia.
Her internship focused on the fundamentals of corporate accounting and the development of her professional presence Gunn was inspired to pursue this internship due to her interest in studying business in college
“My biggest takeaway from this experience was insight into the corporate environment, specifically in accounting, and how to excel in a professional environment,” Gunn said Gunn hopes to eventually pursue a career in this field.
Reese Barwick
Reese Barwick ’26 participated in a pre-college dentalprogramatTuftsUniversity
During the program, Barwick had the opportunity to suture a banana, wax a chipped tooth, fill a cavity, do dental impressions, and practice cast pouring Suturing the banana proved to be her most difficult task
“It was difficult not to be able to touch the needle as well as being required to use a needle holder,” Barwicksaid
Her interest in the dental field began at a young age and served as her inspiration to partake in the Tufts Universityprogram
“I loved going to the dentist and the orthodontist I was interested in seeing if this is something I would wanttofocusmytimeoninthefuture,”shesaid
After participating in this program, Barwick’s decision to pursue dentistry in her future has been solidified.
Katherine Cronley ’26 participated in an internship at KPMG in Philadelphia
During her internship, she learned about public accounting, different careerofferingsinthatfield,andeachemployee’scareertrajectory.
“The most valuable evidence comes from people who have experienced whatyouaregoingthroughnow,”Cronelysaid
She was inspired to pursue an internship in this field after taking the Accounting and Budgeting class offered through Villa Maria in conjunctionwithImmaculataUniversity Cronleyhopestostudyaccountingincollege
Learning to root for one another: Student Council lays foundation for success (continued)
Maggie McHale ’26 Victoria Eidam ’27
Executive Editor-in-Chief Villa Life Section Leader
how much I ve grown here, Tray said “Appreciating what Villa has given me is really important to me ”
“Each year at Villa I have learned so much about myself and other people I want underclassmen to understand that there is significant growth each year,” Gentilotti said In order to foster an environment of growth this year Student Council’s vision focuses on the little moments making a big impact
“It’s the day to day aspects that make Villa so special With the help of Student Council we can really hone in on those little details enhance the experience, and try to connect the student body more,” Gentilotti said “[Villa Maria] really is a special place ”
“You see the bigger things we do, but I don’t think everyone looks into everything we’re behind We re at every school event We really are putting a lot of time into it,” Tray said “At the end of the day, I want to look back and say I did the best I could to make Villa better than I found it ”
Two of Student Council’s main goals this year are developing future leaders who are fully committed to bettering Villa Maria and deepening the connections students have with each other
It s the leaders whom you look up to the most,” Gentilotti said “Students need to trust that Student Council is here for them,”
Tray said Student Council is committed to sharing the input of the student body with teachers and administration, ensuring their ideas are heard One of the ways this process occurs is through a new meeting structure Now Student Council officers and representatives meet in both committees and grades to discuss ideas and provide feedback Giving students the opportunity to share their own input comes with a challenge, but learning to manage this has been one of the most important lessons the Student Council Executive Officers have learned over time
“No matter how hard you try to make people happy, you’re never going to make everyone happy In life, not everyone is going to agree, but you have to be the bigger person and stand up for what you want in a non-selfish way” Tray said In her position of leadership, Gentilotti has come to know the importance of taking initiative and following through with both her and the student body’s ideas
Villa Maria students sa A group of Villa Maria Academy High Schoo
Madelyn DiBonaventura ’26, Sloan Barry ’28
Reporters
Over the summer, a group of adventurous Villa Maria students and faculty spent seven days on the island of Maui Twelve students and two faculty members worked alongside Maui Cultural Lands, a non-profit organization based in the Honokowai Valley They also participated in a variety of educational and cultural activities across the island Maggie McHale ’26, Co-Founder and Co-President of Villa Maria s Environmental Club, was on the trip
“I really wanted another handson experience to combine both service and my passion for the environment,” McHale said Claire Miller ’26, an active member of the Environmental Club, was inspired by a personal reason to embark on this service trip
“My aunt was there when the fires were happening in Maui, so I thought it would be a good thing to go and learn about what they had experienced and what damage the fires had actually done,” Miller said
“You say it; you do it,” Gentilotti said Sister Mary Jo Ely, Assistant Campus Minister as well as a theology teacher at Villa Maria, chaperoned the trip alongside science teacher Mrs Amy Keglovits
It was so cool to see when the different friend groups came together, got along, and tried new things that they had never tried before, like surfing, which I had never done myself,” Ely said The attendees learned from locals about the struggles they faced as a result of the Maui wildfires
“Every day we got to work with a native Hawaiian, Ely said His name was Ekolu his family’s home was destroyed in the wildfires, but he was so positive and upbeat that you could not help but smile”
The girls also had the opportunity to participate in activities of service and enrichment, from removing invasive plant species to snorkeling and surfing “We went to the Maui Ocean Center, and we learned about sound restoration in the coral reef” Miller said
Tray and Gentilotti have also developed strong organization and time management skills
The two are entering their fourth year working alongside each other as President and Vice President
“[Tray] is always there to take the initiative We really feed off of each other’s energy, and that’s how we get things done together She’s become one of my closest friends because of this role ” Gentilotti said We work really well as a pair because we have the same values
Likewise, Tray cherishes the time she has spent with Gentilotti and the bond the two have formed
“Anne and I have taken it very seriously We want to be the leaders We want to set an example for other people,” Tray said
As individuals who are working to set a positive example, Gentilotti and Tray encourage students to step outside of their comfort zones and choose to run for a Student Council position
“If you want to see a change, be the change Be the advocate for your grade,” Tray said “Putting yourself out there and being willing to take the risk is super important,” Gentilotti said The students who are willing to be risk-takers help the Student Council achieve success
We took a behind-the-scenes tour and looked at a bunch of different types of coral and how they’re affected in the ocean ”
Students not only experienced new cultures and activities but also gained new skills along the way
“We were camping and I’ve never really camped before, so it was really exciting for me to learn how to set up a tent and learn how to cook our own food,” Miller said
With all of this excitement came some challenges along the way, from the time change to the vastly different temperatures which the Villa Maria group took in stride
“I think just adjusting to a new environment, a new place, in a group setting is something that’s difficult but in the end I think our teamwork really pulled through,”
McHale said
Throughout this adventure, the students had major takeaways and learned many new lessons
One of my biggest takeaways is coming out of the trip with a deeper appreciation and connection with the environment,” McHale said
Being able to learn about the fires and about the impact that they had there and also just about Hawaiian culture in general, was something that definitely deepened my passion for the environment Throughout the trip, the students stepped out of their comfort zones and took the risk to try something new Taking on this challenge allowed them to have a lifechanging experience in Hawaii
“My biggest piece of advice is just say yes to opportunities Don t be afraid to take risks, don’t be afraid to step into something new or something that makes you uncomfortable because I think that s where the most personal growth happens,” McHale said
Caroline Lawrence, Villa Maria Academy High School junior, opens her own flower business
Tess Blango ’27 Emily Cagnato ’28
Reporters
Caroline Lawrence ’27 recognized the need for more businesses offering bouquets and boutonnières She decided to merge this need with her passion
“I have a really big interest in flowers and just everything that is creative,” Lawrence said
Her first customers were her friends, but over time her business grew She began making bouquets and boutonnières for Villa Maria’s Spring Formal and then eventually for proms
Lawrence’s friends have served as her biggest support system during the process of growing her business She often teaches them how to make their own floral arrangements
“I owe my biggest thanks to Kaitlyn Fedyk ’27 and Ava Luzzi ’27 who love to talk about my hobby,” Lawrence said
Beyond her friends the Villa Maria community as a whole has served as one of her inspirations as they continue to support her and her business
“I love being able to share a passion of mine with the people I love,” Lawrence said
Cooking up fall flavors
Members of the Villa Maria Community turn to their seasonal favorites
Kyla Gallon ’26
Reporter
Pumpkin Pie:
1 9-inch Homemade pie crust , or store-bought, deep dish, unbaked
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
2 large eggs
15-ounce can canned pumpkin or fresh pumpkin puree
12 ounce can of evaporated milk
Preheat oven to 425 degrees F
In a large bowl beat the eggs and pumpkin together In a separate bowl combine the sugar cinnamon salt ginger and cloves, and add to the pumpkin mixture
Gradually stir in the evaporated milk Carefully pour mixture into unbaked pie shell*
Bake at 425 degrees F for 15 minutes Reduce the temperature to 350° F; bake for 40 to 50 minutes longer, or until the pie is set Check for doneness by giving the pie a gentle wiggle The center may jiggle just a tiny bit It will continue to set up as it cools Or, it is done when a sharp knife inserted in the center comes
Apple Crumble:
2 lb / 1kg Granny Smith Apples( green apples) , weight before peeling
1 tbsp flour plain / all-purpose
1/2 cup white sugar (sub brown sugar)
2 tbsp lemon juice (or water)
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
Topping:
1 cup rolled oats/oatmeal (quick cooking is ok)
1 cup flour, plain/all-purpose
1 cup (loosely packed) brown sugar (sub white sugar)
1/2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp cinnamon powder
125g / 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
Pinch of salt
Preheat oven to 180°C / 350°F (both fan and standard)
Apple – Peel apples, then cut into 1 5cm/ 1/2” cubes
Apple filling – Place apples in a bowl Sprinkle with flour sugar and cinnamon then pour over lemon juice
Toss, then spread out evenly in a 1 5 litre/1 5 quart baking dish
Crumble topping – Place Topping ingredients in a bowl
Mix until clumps form, like wet sand (see video) Spread r the apples crumbling with fingers if required to get topping to 40 m er loosely minutes be ly)
e//Recipet
Mac and Cheese:
4 cups dried macaroni
1 egg
1/4 cup salted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 1/2 cups whole milk
2 heaping tsp dry mustard, plus more to taste
1 lb cheese (such as cheddar, jack, and/or fontina), grated
1/2 tsp kosher salt more to taste
1/2 tsp seasoned salt, plus more to taste
1/2 tsp ground black pepper
Cayenne pepper, paprika, and/or thyme (optional)
1 Cook the macaroni until very firm The macaroni should be too firm to eat right out of the pot Drain
2 Beat the egg in a small bowl
3 Melt the butter in a large pot and sprinkle in the flour Whisk together over medium-low heat Cook the mixture for 5 minutes, whisking constantly Don't let it burn Pour in the milk, add the mustard and whisk until smooth Cook for 5 minutes until very thick Reduce the heat to low
4 Take 1/4 cup of the sauce and slowly pour it into the beaten egg, whisking constantly to avoid cooking the egg Whisk together till smooth
5 Pour the egg mixture into the sauce whisking constantly Stir
Editorial: Benefits and drawbacks of wearing school uniforms
The presence of uniforms in schools is a long-debated subject, with supporters citing benefits such as a sense of unity and high standards while opponents argue impeded self-expression
Siena Fontana ’26 Editor-in-Chief
According to the National Center for Education Statistics “[B]ased on the 2019-2020 school year roughly 18 8% of public schools and 57% of private schools in the US required uniforms ” Uniforms have been a part of schools for centuries, playing an extremely important role in the lives of students who wear them Uniforms hold students to a high standard as they are expected to uphold the values of the school they represent When everyone is dressed the same, it promotes a sense of unity and camaraderie as students feel they have commonalities with each other, building a strong sense of community
In “School Uniforms and Student Behavior,” Ansari et al states, “The Social Learning Theory [observes] individuals are argued to respond to a combination of: (a) cognitive factors, such as knowledge, expectations, and attitudes; (b) behavioral factors, such as skills, practice, and self-efficacy; and (c) environmental factors, such as social norms access in community and influence on others ” These elements interact in a process called reciprocal determinism The presence of uniforms can greatly change the learning environment, thus affecting cognitive and behavioral factors of students in a positive manner Uniforms can unite the school as one and create a strong sense of school pride and a close-knit group identity
“When I wear my uniform in public I feel a sense of pride and continue to hold myself to a high standard I know I am a reflection of Villa Maria Academy and therefore should continue to act in a way that embodies what it means to be a student here” Maggie McHale ’26 said Students are a reflection of their school, both inside the classroom and outside of it, holding them to a certain level of behavior How they act reflects back on the school and the values taught there
Another argument in favor of school uniforms is that the world of fashion is constantly changing The prevalence of social media exacerbates the trends that remain for only a few months
Teenagers are the most susceptible to becoming financially involved in these fads because they want to imitate creators on social media and feel isolated when they cannot In addition, teenagers think they must purchase these clothes in order to fit in with their peers at school because they feel judged for not wearing the "right" clothes These fleeting trends can be emotionally and financially exhausting to keep up with, especially for students with monetary restrictions Parents spend their hard-earned money building up their child’s wardrobe, fighting an impossible battle to keep up with microtrends that are briefly in style when there are more important things to save for Buying one uniform that can be reused every year, therefore, becomes a huge money-saver
When participating on an equal playing field, students are able to focus their attention on more important things, such as their academics They can now devote more time to schoolwork and pay closer attention in class if they are not comparing their attire to that of their classmates or worrying about how their own clothing will be judged by their peers
“Between extracurriculars, jobs, school, and academics, if the one thing you don't have to think about in the morning is what to wear, that will simplify a large part of your life” Melissa Feilke Vice Principal of Student Affairs at Villa Maria, said
This removes a huge stressor from the lives of students whose lives are already jam-packed
The biggest opposing argument for wearing a uniform is the importance of students having the ability to express themselves According to Ansari et al “Through seeking conformity in clothing schools may actually be undermining efforts to understand and appreciate diversity in the student body”
Teenagers are extremely malleable in their personalities and are prone to stray from their beliefs because the crowd is behaving a certain way The opposing argument maintains that it is extremely important in these formative years for teenagers to have the opportunity to find themselves, explore their interests, or develop their personal style
While the importance of self-expression and discovering your personal style is a viable argument against wearing uniforms wearing a uniform does not necessarily mean you cannot showcase your fashion sense
There are other ways to express oneself outside of clothing when having to wear a uniform Even though we are all wearing the same outfit, I see my peers express themselves on a daily basis with the way they style their hair the jewelry they wear their backpacks, etc,” McHale said
Students can still find avenues of self-expression while wearing a uniform Unique hair accessories, nail designs, bracelets, earrings, and hairstyles are all viable options for self-expression, allowing students to add creative elements of their own choosing to their uniform While students may not be able to wear their own clothes as much as they would prefer, that makes the times they can dress themselves special occasions, which allows them to choose more carefully the clothes they want to wear since this opportunity does not come about as frequently
Implementation of uniforms is a hotly debated subject with those in favor stating the social academic, and financial benefits while those in opposition specify the need for teenagers to properly express themselves Schools will likely continue to make their own decisions based on their held beliefs, and this topic will continue to be heavily discussed
The Philadelphia Eagles are flying high: season update and predictions
The Philadelphia Eagles are currently 6-2 With big plays and big energy, the city of Philadelphia is hopeful, even as the teamlooks to sharpen their game
If you have been paying any attention to the NFL lately, or you just cannot miss all the green and white flooding Philadelphia, you already know: the Philadelphia Eagles are back and they are looking strong In the first few weeks of the 2025 season, the Eagles are sitting at the top of the NFC East
The most exciting game so far has been the wild win against the Los Angeles Rams With just seconds left the Rams lined up for a gamewinning field goal, which Eagles’ defensive tackle Jordan Davis blocked and returned for a touchdown, bringing the final score to 33-26
The Villa Maria Community has high hopes for the Eagles this season, but also constructive criticism to offer
“They have to get better and be more offensive to score more because their margin of points for their wins is not enough ” Darby Janis ’29 said Aside from these areas of improvement, the team is showing growth The Eagles have a strong fanbase to cheer them on, especially at Villa Maria They cheer on the Eagles at home, school, and even at Lincoln Financial Field
VillaMariaWinterUniform//LaurieScaggs
Hannon (continued)
close-knit community but still incredibly welcoming to all The sense of community the traditions, the balance between work and fun, and the high standards of the members of Villa Maria drew Hannon in
“So many of the things that distinguish Villa are the things that I really valued the most about my own education and about any community that I would want to be a part of,” she said
Hannon has noticed that in all-girls schools, faculty and students have very positive relationships and work together
The IHM Charisms also stand out to Hannon as a major catalyst in cultivating a strong community
She has had a positive experience and smooth transition into her role as principal so far, discovering something new each day Villa Palooza, a summer retreat for incoming students, has been the highlight of her experience thus far, as it was the first day she met students while in her role as principal The Welcome Days Opening Liturgy, and Blue and White Games have also been memorable events for Hannon
Beyond her impressive career in education she enjoys reading being outside in nature and can often be found exploring new places, whether on Villa Maria’s campus or in the city of Philadelphia
“The campus is a really awesome place but it took a while to figure it out, Hannon said “Mr Spillane took me around in a golf cart, and it really was a welcome-to-Villa moment, as I was able to take in the entire campus ”
VILLA LIFE
“I love to explore cities, so right now that would be Philadelphia I have been to Center City, and I was recently at Longwood Gardens for the first time,”
Hannon said
She loves new places just as much as she does familiar ones Hannon’s biggest inspiration is her ninth-grade English teacher from Magnificat High School, with whom she remains in contact The teacher's words “You can do anything you want, have become a guiding principle in Hannon’s life and work
Hannon hopes to help encourage and influence the students at Villa Maria in the same ways her teachers influenced her Over time here, she wants to strive to create a culture where every student feels supported, capable, and valued Hannon acknowledges the challenges of high school, especially the pressures young women often put on themselves More than anything, she wants students to know they are seen and have the potential to become powerful successful adults
It s a winding journey for everyone, but you are awesome and your potential is amazing; all the faculty and staff see it It’s so exciting to have the opportunity to watch you learn and grow and to see all of the wonderful things you are going to do, Hannon said
From dream to boutique: the story of Main Line Fashionista
Kara Mudrick ’26 Reporter
When Mrs Ashley Meyers first opened Main Line Fashionista in November of 2022 it was like a dream come true; she and her sister had wanted to own a store from a young age At first, Meyers had imagined it to be more along the lines of a thrift shop, but soon the store developed into the boutique it is today For Meyers, the most rewarding experience of running Main Line Fashionista is the dressing room encounter” The concept of “look good, feel good” shines through these interactions
It is about having people leave with that confidence,” Meyers said A day in the life of a business owner is chaotic Not one day is the same, but Meyers would not have it any other way A day-to-day schedule could include running payroll, making schedules, opening boxes full of new items and making jewelry Although she has been asked about a possible second store, Meyers primary focus for her phase two” is on her new jewelry line, GLDN Ash which recently launched
She hopes to see more entrepreneurship in the future especially from Villa Maria students and alumnae “Villa is the best family to be a part of I am so grateful, and it was the best thing for our family, for both my two daughters and my business ” Meyers said “I want the next generation to see that a small business owner can do it I hope to inspire my girls and Villa girls to see that this kind of work is hard but so rewarding ” Meyers emphasizes the importance of numbers and looking at the business as a full picture
“Do not be afraid to jump, to leap towards your dream, but also the planning ahead of the ‘not fun’ stuff is really important ” Meyers said
Mrs Ashley Meyers, owner of Main Line Fashionista, opens her own store and becomes a successful business owner
AshleyMeyers //MainLineFashionista
Creating environment of friendly competition
Villa Maria Academy High School's Blue and White Spirit Association plans this year's events with fun new games and traditions
Hailey Stanislawczyk ’29
Contributor
Mary Grace Gormley ’26 serves as the President of the Blue and White Association She works alongside Vice President Cayden McKinney ’26, Blue Team Captain Kiley Delfra ’26, White Team Captain Lily Ippolito ’26, Media Coordinators Alexa Clark ’26 and Briella Romeo ’26, Senior Class Representative Caitlin Connell ’26, Junior Class Representative Brynn Koontz ’26, Sophomore Class Representative Ellie Brenton ’26, and Freshman Class Representative Katie Carroll ’26 Together, they will be implementing new ideas and keeping classic favorites for pep rallies and events this school year
“We have many things in store for this year including old games and new ones for our events,” Gormley said
This year, the Blue and White Spirit Association is expecting new freshmen to participate in the activities, and they hope grades ten through twelve will show new students how to have fun and set the tone for the pep rallies
“Bring energy and don’t be nervous because no one is judging you Try new things because these moments don’t last forever,” Gormley said Villa Maria students always look forward to the creative pep rally themes So far this year, the leaders have surprised everyone dressed as superheroes at Blue and White Day and “Descendants” characters at the Fall Pep Rally Students can expect more surprises throughout the school year
“We have some great new themes this year that we are excited to share with the Villa community,” Gormley said
FallCrossword//JoyLeeZakarewicz
Falling in love with your favorite onscreen characters
Villa Maria Academy High School students rewatch their favorite fall shows
Caroline Eidam ’29
BlueandWhiteAssociationExecutives//LaurieScaggs
FallShows//BridgetStaley
VILLA LIFE/POP CULTURE
Taylor Swift: How does the media portray the success of a celebrity?
The recent release of Taylor Swift’s new album, The Life of a Showgirl, has consequently drawn her to the focus of media attention
Villa Maria Latin teacher and resident Swiftie Ms Katlyn Yost has noticed how other artists do not receive the same backlash Swift does, despite doing the same things with their music Recently Swift’s decision to release vinyls has been heavily discussed and debated in the media
Billie Eilish does it; Bruno Mars does it; Ed Sheeran does it; everyone does it, but she’s the one who gets news articles about her, Yost said
Yost believes Swift’s release of her Reputation album helped change the narrative and allowed Swift to take control of her story
“Now instead of just being a pop star she is seen as a powerful businesswoman who bought back her own music,” Yost said
Yost’s all-time favorite Swift moment was the Artist of the Decade performance at the AMAs: a performance which many people believe proved her music will always speak louder than the headlines in a world where the media controls society s perspective
Swift will likely remain a topic of discussion for the media but fans continue to admire how she turns rumors and headlines into songs to which they can relate
With the release of Taylor Swift’s twelfth studio album and her recent engagement to football star Travis Kelce, Taylor Swift has been in the spotlight over the past few months The question is whether the media really affects the reputation of someone so famous
The media has consistently played a mixed role in Swift’s career They have praised her as the Artist of the Decade and criticized her for writing about her relationships For years, headlines seemed more focused on her dating life than on the music she was creating It is a difficult balance: the media keeps her in the public eye but also adds pressure she constantly has to fight against Swift has been scrutinized by the media for everything from her relationships to her onstage behavior, facing labels like “too dramatic” that have followed her for years When she lost the rights to her early albums, she did not give up Instead she made the bold choice to re-record them, turning heartbreak into empowerment Despite public feuds, constant criticism, and the pressure of growing up under public scrutiny, Swift has always found a way to transform her struggles into songs that resonate with fans
Moshing through mishaps, feining for just friendship
Villa students reflect on the experiences that made their nights hard to forget
“I went up to Rob, the ice cream man, for the second time and he said, ‘Back for another’”
“Last year my date asked me to be his girlfriend during ‘FE!N ’ I felt so bad saying no, so I said yes and we broke up a week later”
“I ate all the pickles at Fall Ball my sophomore year They were really good ”
Turning pages, pressing play
“I babysat my date ”
“My date pulled a no-show to pre-pics, so I didn’t have flowers for my pictures ”
“I lost my date.”
Villa Maria Academy High School students read their favorite fall books and watch their favorite fall movies and shows
FallBall//CharlotteBurch
Caroline Lawrence 27’ and Amy Delfra 29’ Reporters
Team Conrad vs. Team Jeremiah: Who is the better brother?
In The Summer I Turned Pretty, a popular teen show, has started a heated debate about which brother, Conrad, or Jeremiah, is a better fit for the main character, Belly
“The Summer I Turned Pretty” was originally a three part book series written by Jenny Han In 2022, the three season television series began airing The show follows the life of the main character, Belly Conklin, as she navigates a love triangle with two brothers, Conrad and Jeremiah Fisher
From season one to season three, Conrad has undergone major character development, remaining unappealing to a decent portion of the show’s audience: Team Jeremiah
“Here is the thing that most people forget: the Conrad we see in season one isn’t the true Conrad; he’s going through so much ” Annie Cellucci 26, a passionate advocate for Team Conrad, said Cellucci believes how the difficult events in Conrad’s life could serve as a possible explanation for his controversial actions that negatively portrayed him to the viewers Most Team Conrad members believe Conrad is justified and do not see his actions influenced by a difficult time in his life as a reason to dislike his character as a whole
A common theme of The Summer I Turned Pretty is sacrificial love and how much the characters are willing to compromise to be with the person they love Conrad's choice to follow Belly to Paris in season three exemplifies his commitment to her, but viewers question whether his decision was intentional or impulsive I think he counseled with his friends and family before he went, and I think he showed up there open to the possibility that Belly would have moved on and handled it well when he thought she did,” Cellucci said
An argument can be made that Conrad intentionally and thoughtfully pursued Belly, choosing her unconditionally in a way Jeremiah does not
[Conrad] seems to have unconditional love for her, but it seems like Jeremiah's love for her is very much conditional,” Cellucci said
Fans of the show have varying opinions of how they perceive its characters and storyline, often wondering if the show is biased toward one brother
“I think Jeremiah definitely gets worse while Conrad gets better, whether that's a writing choice or genuinely how their character would develop in real life, Cellucci said
Dress to impress
It is apparent that Conrad has pulled viewers to his side through his redeeming qualities and compassionate treatment towards Belly
“[The show's writers] gave [Jeremiah] a lot more credit, skills, and personality to help his case I don’t think it could do much against Conrad, but it helped, Cellucci said
On the other hand, Jeremiah’s love for Belly has appeared clear and consistent from the very beginning of the series to members of Team Jeremiah
“I just thought that [Jeremiah] truly loved Belly He was always set on Belly from the beginning,” Chloe Hopkins ’28 said Team Jeremiah members argue that Jeremiah’s devotion had been steady since they were children They also argue that Jeremiah has shown maturity and sacrifice when it mattered the most For example fans see his decision to stay by his mother Susannah as she was battling cancer as a sign of loyalty: the same loyalty which they see reflected in the way he loves Belly
However, Belly has always had a connection with Conrad: a bond which complicated her relationship with the two brothers
I feel like [Belly] never truly loved Jeremiah, and Jeremiah fully loved her when Conrad couldn’t,” Hopkins said
The unbalanced dynamic was painful for Team Jeremiah viewers to watch Season three raised another issue It is revealed that Jeremiah may or may not have cheated depending on which fan you ask This remains a heavily debated situation by viewers of opposing teams
“I do not think Jeremiah cheated I think if you say you’re on a break, you’re on a break I think [Belly] should have understood that I think they were both guilty of cheating ” Hopkins said In the finale of “The Summer I Turned Pretty,” Belly chooses Conrad as the two confess their love on a train in Paris “The Summer I Turned Pretty will eventually be airing as a movie, which will be written and directed by Jenny Han and will serve as the conclusion of the storyline
Students at Villa Maria Academy High School participate in fall 2025’s newest fashion trends.
Fall is in the air, and with it comes a new wave of fashion trends This year expect to see a range from comfy and casual to cute and formal Through a Google Form 112 students at Villa Maria submitted what they would wear for the fall weather and aesthetic
When it comes to staying warm the hoodie is unbeatable With 62 5% of votes, it towers over other choices, proving it to be the go-to comfy top Crewnecks trail behind at 28 6% while long sleeve shirts, mock necks, and sweaters pulled only a few fans
The decision is clear: this fall is officially hoodie season
There is no surprise here, as 79 5% of students chose sweatpants as their ultimate comfy pants Leggings followed at 18 8% while joggers and jeans barely registered It is a reminder that casual comfort has taken over and sweatpants are now considered a style staple for the majority of girls
For those who enjoy dressing up a little more, knit sweaters top the charts with 60 7% of votes Long sleeve tops with 33% make a strong showing as well, while flannels and turtlenecks remain niche favorites The cozy knit look is both timeless and trendy this year
When it comes to casual pants and skirts, jeans are still the undefeated favorite With 59 8% of votes, they remain a closet essential Interestingly jean skirts make a comeback with 22 3% outcome, showing a nod to retro-inspired styles
Ripped jeans, leather pants, and skirts all have smaller fan bases
The shoe competition was a closer race UGG Minis took first place with 35 7%, followed by Adidas Sambas at 28 6% UGG Tasmans and Hokas running shoes also made notable appearances, but clogs and retro sneakers are clearly the top choices for everyday wear
When it comes to boots, bold is best Steve Madden Astor knee-high boots sweep the competition with 53 7% of votes while Doc Martens leather platform boots come in second at 38% Classic UGGs, ankle boots, and platform Chucks only have a handful of supporters, showing that tall statement boots are the season’s favorite
From hoodies and sweatpants to knit sweaters and knee-high boots, this fall’s fashion is all about balancing comfort with confidence The students have spoken: staying warm never looked so stylish
Villa Maria Academy High School underclassmen predict the seniors’ surprise Halloween costume
Alumna steps into role as studentathlete at collegiate level
Ella Cellini ’25 learns to balance Division I athletics and academics
Reese Escobar ’27 Sports Section Leader
Ella Cellini ’25 is a first-year student at the University of Delaware, where she plays Division I field hockey Cellini s main advice to high school studentathletes considering the recruitment process is to put themselves out there and to stick with it
Running toward achievement of lifelong goals
management skills required of a student-athlete
Villa Maria Academy High School sophomore Hannah Leinhauser prepares for the Philadelphia Marathon this November
Eleni Kalisperis ’26 Kendall Shin ’29 Reporters
“If you are going through the recruiting process, keep an open mind and know that it is not a linear process,” Cellini said “There are many ups and downs, but the end result will be worth it, and you will end up where you are supposed to be ”
She finds that the best part of college sports is having a team to serve as her support system
“We are with each other 24/7, so we are all super close and they helped make my transition to college so much easier,” Cellini said She has been playing field hockey since she was four years old Since then, she has dedicated herself to the sport Her father, who played college soccer, always talked about how it was the best decision he ever made
“Since I was little, it was always a dream of mine to play field hockey in college,” Cellini said
She also believes that Villa Maria helped her to build the time
“After my freshman season at Villa, I knew I definitely wanted to play in college,” Cellini said However, she has discovered that collegiate athletics is a difficult and intense lifestyle
“A lot of the time it can feel like I don’t even have time to breathe with the insanely busy schedule that I have as a student-athlete,” Cellini said
“Some days I leave my dorm at 7 a m , go to all my classes, then straight to lift, meetings, and practice, and I don’t get back until around 10 p m ”
Despite the learning curve and long days, she would not take back her decision to play field hockey at a Division 1 level
“There are so many extra resources that come with being a student-athlete that help to set us up for success,” Cellini said “Even though there are lots of tough days, being a student-athlete in college has so many perks and you will not regret choosing to play a sport in college ”
The Philadelphia Marathon consists of a 26 2 mile run that begins at the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and ends near the Philadelphia Museum of Art Hannah Leinhauser ’28 has run track and cross country since second grade, though this will be her first marathon
Running a marathon has always been a goal that she has wanted to achieve When she finally reached the minimum age to participate, Leinhauser signed herself up for the Philadelphia Marathon to accomplish her lifelong goal
She officially started her training in June and is following a sixteen-week marathon plan
“During weekdays, I train with cross country On my long runs over the weekend I run between 15-18 miles,” Leinhauser said
As part of her marathon training, she has also been preparing how to fuel herself during the race
“I use the running gels called Outreach
Chocolate The chocolate flavor is my favorite and gives me the perfect amount of sugar halfway through my runs,” Leinhauser said
“As it gets closer, it’s a little bit more daunting but still super exciting ” Leinhauser said
As the marathon draws near, the Villa Maria community continues to encourage her during the training process
Reaching milestones, setting goals, strengthening
Mackenzie Melcher ’26, Maddy Kolb ’28 Reporters
ErinUrbanski’28//Lifetouch
Villa Maria Academy High School, Home of the Hurricanes, offers a multitude of sports throughout the year So far in the 2025-26 school year, the fall sports have started off strong From naming All American Athletes, sharing lasting legacies with seniors and winning across the board Villa Maria fall athletes have done it all
Villa Maria’s cheer team, captained by Chloe Anspach ’26, Ellie Mermelstein ’26, and Miranda Read ’26, began their season with a bang, attending UCA Cheer Camp at Pine Forest in Greeley, Pa The team learned multiple sideline routines and halftime dances which have been and will continue to be performed at the Malvern Prep football games
“So many people have already been so supportive When they find out they respond with excitement by saying, ‘Oh my gosh! That is so cool Good luck ’ Just simple encouragement like that has meant so much to me” Leinhauser said
“Being on the team has been an amazing experience, and I have loved creating bonds with all of my teammates,” Ava Walsh ’28 said Additionally, Anna Ventura ’28 and Courtney Varich ’27 were named All-American cheerleaders this season This accomplishment was achieved through an audition process and selection committee, which allows girls to attend further cheer events across the country
Villa Maria golfers have had a successful season as well They attended the Llanerch Invitational against many other schools Junior Captain Maurgaux Lentz ’27 believes that the girls did extremely well and made Villa Maria proud
Senior Captains Lizzie Honold 26 and Bryn Mink ’26 are excited for their final season to further
pass on the Villa Maria golf traditions and to have fun at their matches throughout the rest of the fall The girls also hope for the team to continue to grow and their love for the golf team to be continued after they graduate Villa Maria’s tennis team has been off to a great start this year
“Team bonding has been amazing, and we are closer than ever this year,” Senior Captain Ellie Brenton ’26 said
Villa Maria’s rowing team has enjoyed their experiences this fall season Captains Anna Gunn 26 and Lula Meyers ’26 are grateful for this season allowing them to build new relationships with the freshmen, gain new personal bests and compete against new teams their experiences this fall season Captains Anna Gunn 26 and Lula Meyers 26 are grateful for this season allowing them to build new relationships with the freshmen gain new personal bests, and compete against new teams
We are excited to reach and set new goals and end our senior rowing careers off strong, Gunn said Throughout October, Villa Maria’s crew team will begin competing on Philly’s own Schuylkill River, as well as some crews traveling to Wilmington Del and Boston, Mass to race
Villa Maria’s field hockey team is off to an amazing start to their season
With a strong record of 9-1, the team holds the No 2 national ranking They have appeared in the State Championship game for the past two seasons, coming up just short in last year’s final With their grit and determination to finish what they started, the team is paving the way for another title run this season
“I am really looking forward to the post season this year Coming off of last
team bonds: fall sports recap
GeorgieKondrath’28//Lifetouch
season and losing in the state championship, I think we have a drive to win and bring home the trophy this year” Senior CoCaptain Caitlin Connell ’26 said Despite having a small roster of just nine girls, Villa Maria’s cross country team is having a strong season and is currently ranked fourth in the district They recently placed second at the Truman Fall Ball Meet and are gearing up for league championships, with several runners aiming for districts and states in the upcoming weeks
“I am looking forward to making the most of the few meets and little time I have left with my teammates,” Senior Co-Captain Rileigh O’Neil ’26 said Villa Maria’s volleyball team is having a fun and rewarding season, focusing on improving with each game and learning from both wins and losses Recently the team hosted their annual “Spike Out for Cancer” match this year against Gwynedd Mercy The game is a special charity event to raise awareness for pancreatic cancer in memory of former coach Peggy Evans’ husband The team is cherishing the joy of playing the sport alongside teammates who share their passion, making every match memorable
“I’m looking forward to just playing this season,” Senior CoCaptain Anne Gentilotti 26 said
season so far as well, and is preparing to enter district playoffs
“We really worked well together as a team, and connected so much throughout the season Overall, it has been a great time, and our chemistry shines on and off the field,” Captain Delaney Todd ’26 said
“We are all super excited to see where the rest of the season takes us,” Captain Molly James ’26 said
“I really enjoy the sport and playing with others who are driven ” Villa Maria soccer has had a great
DelaneyTodd 26//Lifetouch
Villa Maria Academy High School’s cheer, golf, tennis, rowing, field hockey, cross country, volleyball, and soccer teams begin their seasons
