Blue&Gold Fall 2019
OUR WMA FAMILYCONNECTED FOR
LIFE
It has been an ongoing tradition for our students to visit the elderly and infirm Sisters of Mercy at McAuley Convent.
Then&Now Top: Students play cards with the Sisters of Mercy at McAuley Convent in the 1990s. Bottom: Students today read, play games, and get to know the Sisters through monthly visits to the convent facility.
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from all Students connect with grades ther on the one ano und. playgro
to visit the elderly and infim Sisters of Mercy at McAuley Convent.
Fall 2019
INTHIS ISSUE DEPARTMENTS
WALDRON MERCY ACADEMY, A CATHOLIC SCHOOL SPONSORED BY THE SISTERS OF MERCY, IS A DIVERSE, FAITH COMMUNITY ROOTED IN THE GOSPEL VALUES OF MERCY AND JUSTICE. WE ARE A SCHOOL WHERE THE JOY OF DISCOVERY INSPIRES SERIOUS STUDY, SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY AND STRONG FAITH.
FEATURE
2 From the Principal 4 Joy of Discovery 6 Happening on Campus 8 The Power of Mercy 10
Families of Waldron 14 Newsworthy
12 Connections Start at WMA Our teachers are instrumental in forming our Waldron Mercy family. Learn more about how recent retirees Kitty Ferry and Lydia Brennan created connections and left legacies that will last a lifetime.
facebook.com/WaldronMercyAcademy facebook.com/AlumniatWaldronMercy Follow us on Twitter: twitter.com/WaldronMercy Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/waldronmercy Join us on LinkedIn: Search groups for “Waldron Mercy Alumni” or “Waldron Mercy Academy Parents and Friends”
Volume 15, Issue 1 Blue & Gold is published twice a year by the Marketing and Communications Office for the alumni, parents and friends of Waldron Mercy Academy.
CONTRIBUTORS:
PHOTOGRAPHY:
DESIGN:
Marguerite Flynn Suzanne Gallagher Carolyn Leonard Karen McGinley
Carolyn Leonard
AcquireVisual.com
From the Principal hat do you think of when you think about connection? To me, it is the strong bonds that form the tight-knit Waldron Mercy community. Starting this fall, we are working even harder to strengthen connections with our current student body and families. It’s all part of our new program to build resiliency in students, a plan we researched and created as part of our Middle States Accreditation. The program is based on Kenneth Ginsburg, M.D., M.S. Ed's 7 Cs of Resilience: Connection, Contribution, Character, Control, Coping, Competence, Confidence. For the first year of the program, we are focusing on connection. School-wide, every morning begins in the classroom with our teachers individually greeting each and every one of their students. Teachers for each grade level are developing age-specific plans that will create deeper connections among students and between our faculty and our students. Additionally, we will integrate a new Mercy curriculum into all grades that will connect us to Mercy schools across the world. In fact, a WMA teacher was integral in the curriculum development, which you can learn more about in this magazine.
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As you will also see as you read on, our resiliency program helped form our Mercy theme, Growing in Mercy, for the year. You will also see how connections have framed and shaped life at Waldron Mercy in recent years, both inside and outside the classroom. Of course, important Waldron Mercy connections stem beyond our current student body: they extend all the way back to the founding of Waldron Academy in 1923 and continue today through the old and new traditions that connect us all. It was wonderful to see so many of you come to cheer on our athletes at Homecoming. I hope to see every member of our community, current or past, to join us at our Advent Family Mass on Sunday, December 15. Reconnect with Mercy, with teachers, and with one another as we celebrate the joy of the Advent season as a Waldron Mercy family. Or connect with us directly so we can share how you are still connected to your Waldron Mercy roots!
2019-2020 MERCY THEME CONNECTED IN MERCY Every year, our faculty members incorporate a Mercy theme into the curriculum. Grade levels work with each other as part of the Big/Little Buddy program, enabling them to not only connect with the theme academically but also with one another socially. This year, the theme is Growing in Mercy and is linked with our Middle States Accreditation work to create more resilient students. Each month the focus shifts to a different area of growth. Guided by their religion teacher, students will discuss the theme as it changes focus throughout the year. Students also will decorate a tree on a bulletin board throughout the year to represent the different stages of growth and growing in Mercy please feel free to stop in and watch the students’ reflections change each month!
Fourth grade proudly displays our Mercy theme after a schoolwide theme introduction.
CAMPUS UPGRADES The final step in our outdoor renovation is finally complete! Starting in 2017, playground improvements were made to make recess and aftercare more fun for all of our students. The last piece of this project was installed in early spring and put in use this fall: an outdoor volleyball net. Heading inside, our faculty and staff made several classroom and office adjustments over the summer that allowed for the resource room to move into a bigger space. Our specialists can more easily meet with multiple students in one room, and even have a large table for group study sessions. BLUE & GOLD
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JOY OF DISCOVERY
“A good beginning is of great importance” VENERABLE CATHERINE MCAULEY
WMA classrooms are filled with students who are exploring new ideas, reaching new heights, and achieving academic success.
Friends Across Continents hat is better than receiving a letter in the mail? Receiving one that connects you to friends from halfway around the world! Our students are learning more about the lives of children in other countries through our new pen pal program. Students write letters back and forth with students who attend Namuwongo School, a one room schoolhouse that serves 200 first through third graders in one of the poorest sections of Uganda. Our sixth grade students began the program last spring, and second grade students joined this fall. Patrick Giangiordano, now in seventh grade,
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participated in the initiation of the program last year. He tried to put in as much information about himself so that his pen pal could get to know him. He also asked questions to try and learn about the country of Uganda. Two responses arrived over the summer.
“It was exciting to receive the letters, rip open the envelopes, and see what they wrote,” he said. “I was able to learn about their culture, and what kind of government they have.” Waldron Mercy became connected to Namuwongo School through second grade teacher Angela McKelvey, whose neighbor is on the local advisory board for the school.
Top: Members of last year’s sixth grade class pose with letters they received from their Ugandan pen pals. Left: Hannah Tracey and Mathieu Demosthene write their first letters to students in Uganda.
It’s Never Too Early! rt, music, Spanish, yoga movement, gym, library…our specials classes start at age three! Specials classes prepare our students for their education as they move through the Lower and Middle Schools. They help young students learn to express themselves, and form foundations they need to succeed in the traditional classroom setting. “Vast connections, so vital to their education, are made through using art processes,” explained art specialist, Ms. Patty Papatheodore.
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“When young children learn how to draw various kinds of lines that make up shapes, it prepares them for writing letters.” Many students are already familiar with our specials instructors from their time at Waldron Mercy Child Care. Music specialist Mrs. Linda Betlejeski and library assistant Sr. Carmel, RSM both enhance the Child Care lessons and are friendly faces as students transition to our main building. Beyond the educational value, students love their specials classes - you can see it in their faces.
Above: Montessori students dance and sing during music class with Linda Betlejeski. Left: Preschoolers Catriona Lake and Lily Morrison explore colors through painting.
Bridging the Gap O
ur students are often the bridge between Waldron Mercy and the outside community, and this is especially the case when it comes to new families! The eighth graders act as WMA Ambassadors - also known as Sr. Joellen’s Ambassadors – giving informational tours of our building. “It feels great to be able to talk about my early memories at WMA and show how much I’ve grown,” said Ashley Gomes. “I like being able to explain how we are all merciful,” added Natalie Ferdinand. The program allows our oldest students to be true leaders not just at school, but in our community, as they usher in the next generation of students. It is a place for students to fine-tune their public speaking and verbal selfexpression outside of the classroom.
Eighth grade ambassadors stand with Admissions Director Sr. Joellen McDonnell, RSM and Admissions Coordinator, Suzanne Gallagher.
ALUMNI SUCCESS STARTS HERE Education at Waldron Mercy is not just about gaining classroom knowledge. As Kelvin Johnson ’04 can attest, our students also grow on a personal level. Kelvin, a graduate of William Penn Charter High School and Villanova University, recently became the Vice President of Growth and Product Strategy at LasX Industries, a laser manufacturer. He says he still applies lessons he learned at Waldron Mercy in his daily life. “The big thing WMA provided me was discipline, not only in athletics but in the classroom. You were strengthened with homework and projects but at the same time, teachers were always willing to spend time to help you.” He says he specifically remembers Mrs. Irene Pawlish helping him with math problems during recess.
The Waldron Mercy faculty also taught Kelvin to collaborate. “The foundation from Religion class which encouraged respect allows me to have great working relationships to this day,” he explained. Perhaps best of all, our teachers also taught Kelvin to have fun. He credits Mrs. Theresa Gannon in particular for this skill. “One of my big operating principles at work is making sure it’s not just about work. It’s about getting to know the people I work with.” Though our current students may not realize it now, what they learn inside and outside the classroom at WMA will lead them into success for the rest of their lives.
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HAPPENING ON CAMPUS
“We must strive to do ordinary things extraordinarily well.”
VENERABLE CATHERINE MCAULEY
WMA students showcase their talents outside the classroom through a full range of extra-curricular and co-curricular activities.
A Family on the Field S
ports are an amazing opportunity for students to make new friends and interact with students from other schools. Waldron Mercy athletes experienced outstanding seasons in the 2018-2019 school year. The Varsity Swimming, Varsity Boys, Varsity Girls and JV Girls Basketball teams put in fantastic efforts and saw some great outcomes. JV Boys Basketball and JV Baseball won their respective CAL leagues; Track and Field Boys won the CYO region and the combined boys and girls team placed fourth at the CYO regional meet. The Varsity Softball team was in a league of their own, finishing the season undefeated and securing the CAL Championship win! These amazing outcomes would not be possible without the bonds the athletes formed. When asked what stood out about their performances and made the year so successful, almost every student responded with “teamwork.” “Our first game was a big highlight because we got to see how everyone played together,” recalled seventh grader Colby Gibbs about his experiences on the JV Baseball team. “We ended up having great teamwork.” The team finished with only one loss. “The league is just so nice and my friends are interested in it. It’s just fun to be part of a team and part of something I’m passionate about,” now-seventh grader Chloe Fry said about her time on the JV Girls Basketball team. 6
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The softball team especially attributes their team connection to its first undefeated season. “Hard work pays off,” explained Grace Ciochetto, now in eighth grade. “We all worked together and I’m proud of our accomplishments this season.” Her father Mark, one of the coaches last season, said his main goal for the season was to teach the girls the importance of forming strong bonds. “By coming together as a team and supporting each other as a family would,
these girls realized how much fun softball can be. They realized if they had fun at every moment while a part of this team, they would work harder, cheer louder and perform better on the field,” he revealed. Congratulations to all our Tiger athletes! Above, left: The Varsity Softball team stands together after a victorious final game. Above: John Barber and Mason Wiegand go head-to-head during a rainy track meet. Below: Seventh grader Jaron McKie attempts to score for the Tigers.
The Adventures of Flat Stripes ur mascot, Stripes stays on campus… but Flat Stripes loves to explore! From Greece to Hong Kong to the Jersey Shore, he traveled the globe with our students this summer.
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He checked out a local spa fifth grader Amelia Deibel and introduced her towith Bullock sisters: Mary Bridget ’03, Mary Catherine the ’01, and Mary Grace ’10. He visited Oahu, Hawaii with Kinsley and Mia Jackson (grade six and pre-k sisters).
s this nt flyer mileith a lot of frequeou up w ed a ck in ra Ch s , pe ri Flat St ; here he is in Guangzh rey summer (Montessori 5) and his sister Aud g William Gon (Montessori 3).
Tiger Pride Runs Deep H
omecoming is a wonderful opportunity for our alumni to reconnect, and this year was no exception. From the Class of 1948 to the Class of 2019, our graduates enjoyed food, sports, fun, and even purchased some of our newest Spirit Wear!
Flat Stripes learned about Dr. Seuss in Springfield, Massachusetts with fourth grader Cristiano Forcina.
Our most recent alums cheered for friends who still attend WMA while laughing and joking with one another. When asked why they decided to come to homecoming, nearly every student responded, “to see my old friends.” For some, it was about connecting with more than just classmates. “I come every year to see Ms. Rissover, my favorite teacher,” said Adjuke Heyburn ’18. The day culminated with an impromptu basketball game in the Dixon Gym - a sure sign that March’s High School Hoops event will have a large turnout!
Bottom: Grace Dever ’18, Willoughby Galbraith ’18, Adjuke Heyburn ’18, Cassidy Scott ’18. Below: Franco Leuzzi ’18 and James Leuzzi ’18 take a break from cheering. Left: Members of the Class of 2019 pause for a photo while enjoying the JV Football game.
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POWER OF MERCY
“The poor need help today, not next week.” VENERABLE CATHERINE MCAULEY
Catherine’s spirit of outreach and service that was instilled in our students here continues throughout high school, college, and beyond.
Keeping a Memory Alive W
aldron Mercy alumni used the Spirit of Mercy to ensure that the legacy of one of our former students will live on for years to come. In May of this year, members of the WMA community gathered together to dedicate a playground bench to Mark Dombroski ’13, who tragically passed away in 2018 while in Bermuda for a rugby tournament with his team from St. Joseph’s University. Mark’s classmates were deeply saddened when they learned of his death, and knew they had to do something to cope together, despite being separated at colleges around the country. “After much thought and reflection with the priest at my school, I decided that the best way for me to deal with the loss was to take action and keep his legacy alive,” revealed Sadie Coyne ’13, a junior at the University of Southern California. Sadie decided to raise money for a new Buddy Bench on the Waldron Mercy playground. This bench is meant to be a place for children to go if they need someone to talk to or play with at recess. Sadie says it is especially fitting because Mark never excluded anyone. “This bench is a symbol of Mark’s amicable attitude and kind character. I hope it keeps his legacy alive at Waldron, and that the WMA community will use the bench to foster new friendships,” she explained. Sadie reached out to members of the class of 2013 and their parents to raise funds necessary to purchase and install the bench on the
front playground. Texting and social media helped connect members of the Class of 2013 to raise the money and deal with their loss of Mark, who, Sadie explained, impacted everyone with his welcoming smile and joyful spirit. Not only did the class raise money, but also attended a dedication ceremony where classmates stood alongside Mark’s family and WMA faculty and staff to bless the bench, as pictured below. “We’re incredibly touched that Mark’s classmates put together such a beautiful gesture in his memory,” said his mother Lisa Dombroski.
Mark’s parents have also ensured that their son’s legacy will live on through the Mark Dombroski Foundation. The foundation provides funding to organizations that support and promote youth education, athletics, safety, and well-being. Those interested can make donations to the Foundation by visiting www.markdombroski.net. It is amazing to see our alumni use the Power of Mercy to support each other and Mark’s family in a difficult time.
Beyond our Walls hristine Torrisi ’04, works with Catholic Social Services at the Northeast Family Service Center (NEFSC) as a Master’s Level Social Worker and Parent Educator. The NEFSC helps individuals and families access benefits and services from Catholic Social Services, including emergency assistance, ESL classes, GED preparation, and job placement assistance. A graduate of Mount St. Joseph's Academy and Temple University, Christine works closely with the Pregnancy and Parenting Services and
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Education Division at NEFSC. She works with parents to access resources like diapers, wipes, formula, baby bottles, and clothes. Within her role, Christine provides education and encourages parents to enroll in classes and workshops aimed at increasing the health and safety of parents and their babies. Christine would love for the WMA community to use the Spirit of Mercy to help her in her efforts through donations of diapers, wipes, formula, and more - just give her a call at (215) 624-5920 to find out how you can help.
A Family Affair M
ercy and service learning extend course to dessert, and then serve the food to beyond school hours and faculty-led the men at the shelter. It is a wonderful opporprograms. Once a month, our families work tunity for our students to directly alongside Project HOME to provide a meal for interact with populations men who are experiencing homelessness at they learn about in “My favorite St. Columba, one of the non-profit’s class and see how many shelters. part about the dinners is their actions can The Parents Association Outreach impact those seeing how the WMA Committee spearheads the effort that around them. students, especially the connects Waldron Mercy community “My members with our mission. Students favorite part youngest, are open to conand their families sign up to bring a about the necting with the men that part of the meal, from the main dinners is seethe shelter serves. They don’t ing how the hesitate or have any WMA students, especially the prejudices.” youngest, are open to connecting with the men that the shelter serves,” revealed Ashley Robinson, who has been a program liaison for the past two years. Her son, Antoine, is in eighth grade. “They don’t hesitate or have any prejudices.” “The students are eager to help and leave wanting to come back,” added Ellen Cordes, another program liaison. Her son, Spencer, is also in eighth grade.
Waldron Mercy families are not the only ones enjoying the evening. “The men are so appreciative and often remark that the Waldron Mercy dinner service is their favorite dinner of the month,” explained Ellen. “I like participating in St. Columba with my family because I like helping people who don’t have a home,” said Maggie Reed, a fifth grader. Maggie has served dinners to the men at the shelter since she was in third grade. This year, Cordes and Robinson are passing the Outreach Liaison baton to parents Tracey McDevitt Hagan and Sonia Forcina, who will coordinate St. Columba dinners. Above: First grader Liam Mikkelsen finishes preparing a plate with help from parent Sonia Forcina. Left: Students in seventh and eighth grade get ready to serve food prepared by their families and other WMA volunteers.
Continuing the Circle of Mercy “In Mercy, we touch the hearts of those who are in misery.In Mercy, we’re touched by them and feel their strength and courage.” he opening to the beautiful song The Circle of Mercy illustrates one of the many messages we strive to teach our students: that our merciful actions affect those around us and help us build a merciful community. This year we began a new tradition to continue the circle of Mercy, and to better connect our students and faculty with the Sisters of Mercy who live and work on our campus. As part of our May Devotions, students and staff wrote more than 1000 unique messages, prayers, and prayer intentions. Students delivered those
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messages to the Sisters at the Convent of Mercy and McAuley Convent. In turn, many of the Sisters shared that they too were praying for our students and our community. The elderly and infirm Sisters at McAuley Convent were especially pleased to have surprise guests. “It made my heart warm up to see them so happy,” expressed third grader Alexandria Perrymore, who assisted in giving the prayer intentions and flowers to the Sisters. It is beautiful to see the bonds between our
students and the Sisters continue to grow and thrive. Our preschool and pre-k students provide holiday cheer through songs and smiles over the course of the year, and students of all ages spend several hours a month after school reading, playing games, and chatting to Sisters at McAuley Convent. Left: Sean Hagan, Alexandria Perrymore, and second grade teacher Catherine Rissover ’92 deliver flowers and prayer intentions to the Sisters at the Convent of Mercy. Above: Sofia Arias, Aya Ostrander, Francis Giovannone, and Markus McMackin visit with former WMA librarian Sr. Mary Agnes, and Sr. Eleanor O'Grady, while dropping off notes and prayer intentions to McAuley Convent. BLUE & GOLD
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Families of W Each WMA family brings a unique value to our school and has been a part of making WMA what we are today. This overwhelming sense of community lives within WMA. The contributions of our families’ time, talents, and resources are generous and greatly appreciated; even more importantly, the presence of each family adds to the blessings of the Circle of Mercy here at WMA. We’d like to introduce you to a few of our families...
Chan Meet Daphne Kwan, Ken Chan, and their children Kevin (grade five) and Kelly (grade three). Kevin began as a pre-k student while Kelly started out as a Montessori student. Daphne says she and her husband Ken were drawn to enroll their children at Waldron Mercy because they “found that the teachers and students were passionate, warm, and polished. We liked the fact that WMA is a closely-knit community where we can meet and bond with other families.” Both parents have given valuable time to volunteer in their childrens’ classrooms.
O’Connor You might know the O’Connor family from cheering on the sidelines of a variety of our sports teams! Eighth grader Grace is involved in volleyball and track; fifth grader David plays soccer and baseball; and second grader Mary joined instructional field hockey this fall. In fact, parents Nina and Matt say athletics is their favorite Waldron Mercy program. “These teams have been wonderful opportunities for our children to learn the value of teamwork and hard work while prioritizing sportsmanship and Mercy over winning,” explained Nina. Nina and Matt say the Waldron Mercy education is giving their children a solid foundation. “We hope that they will continue to integrate faith, character, and service into their academic and extracurricular pursuits in high school and beyond.”
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Waldron
“The Tender Mercy of God has given us one another.” VENERABLE CATHERINE MCAULEY
O’Malley Meet the O’Malley family: Sharon, Andrew, and their daughters, seventh grader Mimi, fourth grader Evelyn, and first grader Helen. Since joining the WMA community, they have been inspired by the service and outreach programs, both school-wide and in each grade. Their children have learned about sharing their talents and resources for the greater good. “I think that’s something they will carry inside them as they move forward in the world,” said Sharon. “With this spirit of generosity we have also found a great community of families who share our values.” Sharon also added that the visual and performing arts programs have exceeded their expectations, and taught their children about hard work and working as a team.
Ball Rhonda Ball and her daughter Chloe, a fifth grader, have been part of the WMA community since Chloe was in kindergarten. Rhonda said she could immediately tell that the environment was perfect for her daughter, and it’s something she hopes Chloe will continue to seek out as she grows older. “I want her to take the sense of community Waldron has created at the school with her and begin to build a new one wherever she goes. It is important to stay connected to friends and family as she develops throughout life,” Rhonda expressed. Rhonda volunteers for Tigerfest and she and Chloe enjoy packing lunches for our H.O.P.E (Helping Other People Eat) program.
The Delaney family has been involved with Waldron Mercy Academy almost continuously since Katie Delaney Price ’02 enrolled in kindergarten in 1993. Colleen ’06 and John ’07 soon joined Katie on the bus from Roxborough. Beth and her husband John volunteered at St. Columba’s and participated in school events and Beth now serves as a Trustee and chairs the Advancement Committee. Katie graduated from Mount Saint Joseph Academy in 2006 and Penn State in 2010. Katie and husband Tyler recently welcomed their newborn daughter Rosie. Katie is a Child Life Specialist in the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Colleen graduated from Mount Saint Joseph Academy in 2010, earned a Bachelor's in Education from Drexel University in 2014, and her Master’s in Education from Johns Hopkins in 2018. She teaches kindergarten at Belmont Academy Charter School in Philadelphia. John graduated from LaSalle College High School in 2011, and in 2015 earned a Civil Engineering degree from Syracuse University. He currently lives in Baltimore and works as a transportation engineer for the Maryland State Highway Administration.
Delaney
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“It’s about having relationships with everybody, not just the kids, not just with faculty and staff, but also with the parents.” Kitty Ferry hit the nail on the head when asked what “connection” at Waldron Mercy means to her. It is just one of the reasons the community is sad to see Ferry and kindergarten teacher Lydia Brennan retire. Both completed their Waldron tenure in June. Ferry and Brennan alike have a deep understanding that creating the family atmosphere that we pride ourselves on goes far beyond the day-to-day activities in the classroom; it is about creating a welcoming environment for everyone from day one. “Mrs. Brennan always made me feel welcome,” reflected Ava Donatucci, ’15. “She helped me to grow up, to learn, to build the basis of who I am today.” Brennan and Ferry both taught Ava’s
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brother, Ronald Donatucci ’97, and he too looks back fondly on his experiences with them - both as a student, and as a parent. Brennan taught his daughter, Simona, in kindergarten last year. “Every time you’d see Mrs. Ferry, she’d be warm and take an interest in what was going on in our lives,” he remembers as his time as a student. Talking about his more
recent experiences at Waldron, he added, “Mrs. Brennan really cared about Simona, not just in that minute, but all the time. She took a real, true, personal interest in every student.” Ferry joined the Waldron family in 1985 when she accepted a position as a preschool aide at what was then Waldron Academy for Boys. She remained through
“Throughout my time at Waldron we always stayed connected.”
the Waldron Academy and Merion Mercy merger in 1987, eventually jumping into the third grade position when it opened up. Brennan became part of the community because of the merger. Her daughter, Kate ’95, attended Merion for kindergarten and arrived at Waldron Mercy for first grade the year the merger began. Not long after, positions opened up at WMA. Brennan jumped at the chance to move from her half day kindergarten position at another local school to work at Waldron Mercy. She began as a gym teacher before moving into the kindergarten spot. Forming direct connections with parents is also something both Brennan and Ferry found to be critical to create a good learning and social environment in school, and to establish a partnership with parents. Ferry liked to form even the smallest of connection with all parents, whether or not she taught their children in her classroom. “I will miss car line because there are so many interactions with families there. You get to know people and who their kids are,” she reminisced. Her car line presence made more of an impact than even she realized. Though Ava Donatucci did not have Ferry as a classroom teacher, Ferry was instrumental in shaping her experiences at Waldron Mercy. “I’d get nervous in car line sometimes and Mrs. Ferry would always be there to reassure me, and be a friendly face to make me feel comfortable,” explained Ava. “I think that’s important, because you take what you get from your environment.” Though not always an easy task, both Ferry and Brennan believe parent-teacher conferences are very important in establishing strong bonds. As teachers in the lower school, they were often the first teachers who had to inform parents that a student was struggling, whether academically or socially. “It’s not always easy to talk to parents about weaknesses in the classroom, but when they go along with you, it makes that connection so much easier and lighter in a way, to know you’re both working towards the same goal,” explained Ferry. The parent-teacher discussion also provides insight on who a child is outside of the classroom. “On the other side of conferences, I feel
here,” Ron remembered. “I would come like you start to see the children as a child back to visit and continue the relationship.” of a parent as opposed to a student in your Although Ferry and Brennan may have classroom,” Brennan reflected, “and that left Waldron, Waldron will never leave really helps to balance your view of what them. Both maintain friendships with foryou’re seeing in the classroom and helps mer and current faculty and WMA parents. inform the way you interact with the child There is a good chance you will also see or handle a certain situation.” For Brennan, forming a strong connection with a parent resulted in finding her own replacement: Rachael Jordan, mother of pre-k student Asa and first grader Ayden. Brennan explained that when Ayden was placed in her classroom last fall, she and Jordan immediately connected as fellow kindergarten teachers. “When she would come in for Ayden’s conferences, we’d end up talking about Ayden, but we’d also talk about kindergarten in general,” Brennan remembered. Both teachers hold the same belief on how a kindergarten classroom should operate that it should all be based on learning through discovery. So when Brennan decided to retire, she encouraged Rachael to apply for her open position. “It was like something out of a movie. It all happened for a reason, the angels were working on this,” Brennan said. Waldron provides more than just an elementary education. It provides connections that last a lifetime. “Throughout my time at Waldron we always stayed connected,” Franco Leuzzi ’18 reflected about his experiences with Ferry. The two share a birthday, and while he was on campus, they always made a point to give one another a birthday greeting. “She would give me a card and one their faces back on campus sometime. year she even gave me a lemon, my Brennan plans on coming back to lend a favorite fruit. I really appreciated that.” hand where she knows teachers need it the Ferry and Brennan will be missed due to most. “I would like to volunteer because I their strong presence on campus, not just know what things might help the kinderby current parents and students, but by the garten teachers. I would also be happy to many alums who return to visit. run the copier so teachers don’t have to, or “I’d go back to visit and make sure I said do laminating.” hi to Mrs. Ferry. It was nice to see a friendly Ferry, meanwhile, may return to our face that meant so much to me over my halls as a sub. time at Waldron,” said Leuzzi. “I might sub,” said Ferry. “Waldron is Before his daughter enrolled, Ron here, it’s not going anywhere.” Donatucci used to come back As Ferry and Brennan show so often to visit his well, once you are connected to the teachers, including Waldron Mercy family, you are conBrennan and Ferry. “It makes that nected for life. “I remember there connection so much was a period of easier and lighter in time when I had no siblings at a way, to know you’re WMA and didn’t both working yet have kids towards the same
goal.”
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Newswor hy
“Draw persons to God by your words, by your example, and by the works of Mercy.” VENERABLE CATHERINE MCAULEY
FACULTY SPOTLIGHTS Alum Honors WMA Teacher This fall, a student from Katie Lynch ‘15’s hometown is attending Cornell University aided by a scholarship named in honor of our seventh and eighth grade teacher Ms. Eileen Flanagan. This one time scholarship in Eileen’s name is offered because of the strong impact she had on Katie’s education. Cornell University named Katie as a Merrill Presidential Scholar for her scholastic achievement, strong leadership, and demonstrated potential for contributing to society. Each honoree then gets to recognize the most significant contributor to their education at a presentation ceremony and through Cornell’s scholarship program. Katie, who received a B.S. in Sociology in June, revealed, “Ms. Flanagan’s social studies class...is one of the first classes that pushed me to recognize how the knowledge I gain in school can be used to critically analyze and understand the world around me.”
Meet Our New Faculty Katie is continuing her education this fall at the University of Pennsylvania’s Law School.
Katie Lynch ’15 shares the educational influence Eileen Flanagan had on her during a reception at Cornell University.
SPOTLIGHT: CLASS OF 2019 Our Class of 2019 graduates were outstanding students, performers, athletes, and most importantly, people. From academic achievements to amazing performances in athletics, to friendships that will last a lifetime - this was a class for the books. While half of our students are continuing their education at either Merion Mercy Academy or St. Joseph’s Prep, our graduates are also attending: The Agnes Irwin School Archmere Academy (Delaware) The Baldwin School Friends’ Central School Haverford Township High School Kingsway Regional High School (New Jersey) LaSalle College High School Mount Saint Joseph Academy Roman Catholic High School Springside Chestnut Hill Academy The William Penn Charter School
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Waldron Mercy Academy
We were fortunate to add some invaluable new members to our faculty team over the summer! Here’s your opportunity to get to know a few new faces. Rachael Jordan Kindergarten My favorite ways to connect with my students is to find out their favorite things to do, eat, and places to visit. Elizabeth Pavone Fourth Grade Language Arts I like to build community by sharing the poem Where I'm From by George Ella Lyons and then having students write their own. Daniel Kane Fifth Grade Religion and Science My favorite way to connect with students is sharing about my talents and my faults. I want them to know that I accept myself for who I am.
Teaching in Mercy
Our students received scholarships from the following schools: A full, four-year Founder's Scholarship from LaSalle College High School Academic Scholarship from Archbishop John Carroll High School Bonner Prendergast Catholic High School Merion Mercy Academy The Mercy Scholarship from Merion Mercy Academy Two Maguire Scholarships from The Agnes Irwin School The Principal’s Scholarship from LaSalle College High School St. Joseph’s Preparatory School
The President’s Scholarship from Roman Catholic High School The Ignatian Scholarship from St. Joseph’s Preparatory The Principal’s Grant from St. Joseph’s Preparatory School The J. Mahlon Buck Jr. Family Arts Award from The Agnes Irwin School Honorable Mention in the Alumnae Scholarship from Merion Mercy Academy
The work of one of our own will impact Mercy students around the world for years to come. Fourth grade teacher Mrs. Bonnie Guarini was one of four Mercy school teachers selected to develop a new curriculum to teach Mercy charism in MESA (Mercy Education System of the Americas) elementary schools. She spent a week in Ventnor, NJ brainstorming, writing and connecting with fellow Mercy educators. “The collegial atmosphere and our shared charism helped us to quickly bond, work hard, and even enjoy some beach time together. It renewed my Mercy spirit and deepened my understanding of Catherine McAuley,” Mrs. Guarini reflected, “and I hope it will do the same for our students.” The curriculum is available to all Mercy schools and our faculty will integrate it into religion classes.
Mrs. Bonnie Guarini works alongside Mercy educators to develop a curriculum that will be used by Mercy schools in this and six other countries.
Rolling the Dice at Waldronopoly Parents came out in style to chat, bond, and take their chances on raffles and auctions at our 19th annual Tigerfest! Held in April at Merion Mercy Academy, this year’s event was inspired by the board game Monopoly. Proceeds from Tigerfest benefit our academic programs, scholarships, and facilities improvements, with ten percent going to our many outreach partners and community service efforts. Monies raised through Fund-A-Cause will allow us to kick off our upcoming cafeteria renovation project. More on that will be revealed shortly. The Tigerfest Committee honored alumni Harry Williamson ’71. Harry comes from a large family with a commitment to Mercy education. He is an executive at the company that provides lunch for our students and makes sure that our students have affordable, healthy meals every day.
ALUMNI NOTES 1957
William F. McGovern ’57 stopped in to visit WMA with his family when in the area for a family reunion. Bill graduated from Malvern Prep and then from Villanova University with a B.S. in Economics in 1965. He moved out to California in 1978, working for a division of Del Monte. Three years later, Bill started his food brokerage company and retired after 24 years in the business in 2005. Bill and his family have been living in San Diego since 2000.
1971 Ralph Rucci ’71, the famous Philadelphia designer, kicked off Paris Couture Week this year with his latest 34 piece collection under his new moniker, RR3331. He graduated from Temple University with a Bachelor’s in philosophy and studied fashion design at the Fashion Institute of Technology.
1995
1999
Spencer Cobbs ’95 and his fiancé, Megan Bennett, were engaged on March 30, 2019 and will be married July 3, 2020. Spencer and Megan welcomed their first child, Skylar Denise, on April 10, 2019. Spencer is currently the sports marketing teacher at Murrell Dobbins High School in Philadelphia teaching tenth, eleventh, and twelfth grade. He is a graduate of Malvern Prep and Hampton University.
Jimmy Fee ’99 and his wife Pam and daughter Maura, welcomed son Jimmy, born on July 26. Jimmy, who lives on Cape Cod in Falmouth, Massachusetts is currently the editor of On The Water Media, a monthly magazine on fishing in the Northeast, and has a fishing show on NBC Sports Boston. Jimmy graduated from Villanova University.
1998 Carla DeGovanni ’98 married Jason Grant Rabun on May 25, 2019 in Aiken, South Carolina. Carla graduated from Mount St. Joseph Academy in 2002 and from Virginia Tech in 2006 with a Marketing Management degree. She then received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Drexel University. Carly and her husband are residents of Aiken where she is a registered nurse in Labor and Delivery at Aiken Regional Medical Center.
1994
Emily and Michael Surovick dressed in their Monopoly best!
Patrick and Kelly Cosgrove showed their sense of humor by coming to Tigerfest as part of a Waldronopoly board.
Anthony J. Leonard ’94 founded the Law Offices of Anthony J. Leonard, LLC. The firm serves the Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey areas, handling serious injury cases of all kinds. Anthony and his wife Kate send their two daughters, Victoria and Abby, to WMA. Both are in the Montessori Program. Anthony graduated from LaSalle College High School in 1998, the University of Wisconsin in 2002 and Widener University Delaware Law School in 2006.
Stay in touch with friends and classmates about your career, family and other noteworthy accomplishments. Email Peg Flynn, Director of Development and Alumni Relations at alumni@waldronmercy.org.
Marissa Monzo Harrow ’99 and husband Matt, along with their son Christian, welcomed Julian James Harrow on May 31, 2019. Marissa and Matt have lived in Pittsburgh for the last six years. She volunteers with the Junior League of Pittsburgh, primarily working on childhood hunger and searching for solutions to end food insecurity within her community.
2000 Antonio (Tony) Spigonardo ’98 wed Kandace Shaffer on October 14, 2018 at Old St. Mary’s Church. Tony is a graduate of St. Joe’s Prep and earned a B.S. and M.S. from the University of Pennsylvania. Friends from the Class of ’98 joined the celebration, including Tim Mahoney, Jamie O’Neil, and JJ Berenato.
Christine Gallagher ’00 is now the Teaching Fellowship Director at the Institute for Islamic, Christian and Jewish studies in Towson, Maryland. She graduated from Merion Mercy Academy in 2004 and Georgetown in 2008. She attended Villanova University for graduate school.
2001 Jim Flowers ’01 and Alana Tomarchio were married on September 7, 2019 at Old St. Mary’s Church. They reside in South Philadelphia. Jim, the son of staff member Candace Flowers, graduated from St. Joseph’s Prep and the University of Scranton. Currently, Jim is a Finance Operations Analyst at Qlik in King of Prussia. BLUE & GOLD
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2006
2012
Eryka Lynn Waller ’06 recently founded the Quinn Center for the Performing Arts, a professional dance and performing arts center for girls and boys ages 5 through 18. Eryka donates part of her proceeds to the Gift of Life Family House, which provides lodging for transplant patients and their families. She is a graduate of the Academy of Notre Dame de Namur and Temple University and earned a Masters in 2015 from Bryn Mawr College.
Paige Hodges ’12 recently won an award for her research at the 2019 Emerging Researchers National Conference in STEM. She attends Howard University where she maintains a 4.0 GPA and was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa Honor Society. She will be conducting research this summer in the graduate department of botany at the University of California, San Francisco. Paige graduated from William Penn Charter School in 2016.
2007 Samantha Ricchiuti ’07 recently performed as Mrs. Goat in the theatre production of Billy the Baaadly Behaving Goat at the 2019 Fringe Festival in September. She attended Merion Mercy Academy, graduating in 2011.
2011 Nile Hodges ’11 is attending Temple University’s Maurice H. Kornberg School of Dentistry after graduating from Howard University in May. As a student at Howard University he was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa and served as president of his fraternity, all while maintaining a 4.0 GPA. Nile graduated from William Penn Charter School in 2015. Tricia Markey ’11 was named the Washington College women’s swim team representative on the 2019 Centennial Conference AllSportsmanship Team. Tricia was nominated by her head coach as an athlete who exemplifies the best in sportsmanship. Before attending Washington College, she graduated from Merion Mercy Academy in 2015
2015 Pierce Hodges ’15 graduated from William Penn Charter School in June. During his senior year he founded and co-chaired the First Annual Cheryl Irving Diversity Conference in an effort to empower young leaders to be ambassadors for community building and social justice. Pierce is a freshman at Howard University as a HU Leadership Scholar.
Katie Mastriano ’15 is living with a family in Senegal through a program called Global Citizen Year. French is the official language, so she is able to work on her French skills as well as learning the local language of Wolof. Katie will be working at a disability center and teaching English as well.
In Memor am Harry J. Bellwoar ’45
Frances Farrington
Brother of Thomas ’48, Joseph ’50, Robert ’55 and grandfather of Peter ’10 and Gregory ’11
Grandmother of AJ ’23 and Charlotte ’29 Farrington
Alice Beltran Wife of Basil Beltran ’49
Elizabeth Breaux-Flax Grandmother of Gavin Breaux-Flax ‘30
Paul and Mary Corr Parents of Robert Corr ’77
Pearl DiFidelto Aunt of Vinnie ’93 and Joe Termini
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Waldron Mercy Academy
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Suzanne Rady Driscoll ’91 and her husband Jim are the proud parents of Baby J.P. who was born on April 4, 2019. Aubrey Cedrone Emrich ’96 and her husband Chris welcomed Abigail Mary on August 18, 2019. Mia Gentile Dempsey ’99, her husband Jim and big sister Juliana welcomed Anthony James, who was born on April 24, 2019 Sean Heron '95 with his wife Janice welcomed their third child, Ryan Nolan Heron. Ryan was welcomed by his two sisters Ashleigh, (4), and Aela Mae (2) Kevin Heron ’01 with his wife Lauren welcomed their second child, Julia Irene Heron. Julia joined her brother Michael.
Thomas Leonard ’97 along with his wife Sarah welcomed Ann Veronica Leonard pictured above, on June 5, 2019.
Ashley Johnson ’99 and her husband Scott Williams are the proud parents of Ame lia Noelle, born on September 8, 2019 and pictured above.
Felicia Gilhool Hayes
Douglas McGirt
Sister of Dr. William Gilhool ’51
Father of Sharon Logan, Staff
Patrick Hanstein
Manus McHugh ’49 Antoinette Mecoli
Cousin of Sr. Joellen McDonnell, Staff
Shelly Leaphart Aunt of Jayden ’21 Leaphart
Mother of Annette Rugnetta and grandmother of Michael Rugnetta ’99
Nancy Leuzzi
George Muller Father of Joan Barone, Former Staff, and grandfather of Victoria Barone ’08
Sister of Jennifer Grugan ’08
Grandmother of Kristian ’11, Blaise ’14, James ’18, Kristina ’11, and Dominick ’14 Leuzzi
Lois Fiore
Philip Maher
Brother of Michael Ianieri ’82
Grandmother of Kristine Maletta, Faculty
Father of Sue Burns, Faculty
Terry Gallagher
Patricia Starkey
Catherine Mante
Brother of Kitty Ferry, Former Faculty
Sister of Sister Mary Christella, Faculty
Dr. John Giacobbo
Maria Louisa Marciano
Mother of Patricia Passarella and grandmother of Mary Elizabeth ’14 and Regina ’17 Passarella
Grandfather of David ’13, Julian ’16, and Blaise ’20 Giacobbo
Aunt of Ronald Donatucci ’97, Michael Donatucci ’99, and Ava Donatucci ’15, Great Aunt of Simona Donatucci ’27
Edward B. Farrell ’54 Donna Finnegan ’93
Ronald Ianieri ’78
Marjorie Travascio Mother of Nell Stetser, Former Faculty, and grandmother of Peter ’09, Andrew ’11 and Jay Stetser
Ways to Give GIFT OF TIME Melissa Lennon and her husband, Enrico Crispo, have put in more volunteer hours than they can count. Current Co-Chairs of The Waldron Fund, the two have helped in the classroom and out of the classroom since their daughter Kathryn enrolled at Waldron Mercy as a pre-kindergarten student. “We really love this environment and when you love something you want to be part of it,” Melissa explained when asked why her family chooses to give the gift of time to WMA. “Volunteering is a good way for me to connect with Kathryn, and it also sets a good example for her,” Enrico added. This is the second year in a row that the couple took on the responsibility of Waldron Fund Chairs, helping coordinate parent participation in the annual fundraising effort. There is a very good chance you have spoken to either Enrico or Melissa on the phone during one of our biannual phonathons! The two have also alternated serving on the Board’s “We really love this Advancement environment and Committee for the when you love past three years, something you and have served as want to be part homeroom parents of it.” and grade coordinators. Enrico’s favorite way to give back is by building beautiful sets for the spring musicals, something he has done for the past two years. Last Enrico Crispo, Kathryn Crispo, and Melissa Lennon year, he even had a small cameo in the play - pushing a motorcycle on stage! “You get to see the kids in a completely different way… and it allows me to connect with parents besides just asking them for money,” Enrico offered jokingly. “I don’t mind asking for money,” Melissa stated, making it clear why she is so good at her position. “Participating in the Waldron Fund is the way you support the strategic growth of the school, and I love to be part of that.” At any of our events, you can be sure to see Enrico and Melissa’s smiling faces, whether they are attending as guests or as volunteers!
GIFT OF TREASURE THE WALDRON ANNUAL FUND The Annual Fund campaign provides support for general operating expenses such as student and faculty programs, curriculum, technology, and building and grounds improvements.
MATCHING GIFTS You can double your support by designating Waldron Mercy Academy as the recipient of matching funds if your employer has a matching gift program.
THE UNITED WAY WMA is approved to receive donations through United Way’s Giving Program. If you already use this as a way to give, please consider WMA as a recipient when choosing where to allocate your funds through United Way. Our designation is: Waldron Mercy Academy #14245. GIFTS OF STOCK You can also give appreciated stock, which is easily transferable and provides special tax benefits. Please contact us for more information. PENNSYLVANIA BUSINESS OWNERS If your company pays Pennsylvania state income tax, it may be possible to give the funds to WMA instead. Through the Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) and the Opportunity Scholarship Tax Credit (OSTC) programs, your company can receive a substantial tax credit while supporting WMA’s Student Aid Fund. Certain individuals may now direct their tax dollars, too! Review this opportunity with your tax adviser and contact our advancement office.
THE EDGAR H. GRIFFITHS ’35 PLANNED GIVING SOCIETY Even after his death, Edgar made sure that his generosity to Waldron Mercy would continue by remembering Waldron Mercy in his will, which noted the impact the Sisters of Mercy had on his life. We hope that you will be inspired to follow Edgar and Mary Griffiths’ example and include Waldron Mercy in your estate plans. Your gift will have a significant effect on the education Waldron Mercy Academy provides to present and future students.
THE GUZZARDI SCHOLARSHIP FUND This fund was established by brothers Robert ’58, Lawrence ’60, and Michael ’64 Guzzardi in memory of their parents, Salvatore and Tina Guzzardi. Your gift to this fund will enable WMA to provide financial assistance to deserving students.
513 Montgomery Avenue Merion Station, PA 19066 ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
SAVE THE DATES
TIGERFEST 2020! 0 High School Hoops 2 0 2 , 7 2 arch in the Dixon Gym Friday, M:30 p.m. 6:00- 7
020 2 , 0 3 l i r p ,A Thursda7y:30 p.m. 5:30 -
SATuRDAy APRIL4,2020 6:30 - 10:00 p.m. At Merion Mercy Academy
Class of 2016 Senior Class Send Off & Parent Reception