FACULTY PROFILE: PHYLLIS OUELLETTE Phyllis Ouellette was known as the “voice over the intercom” this year as the school community navigated hybrid and in-person learning with hallways being dismissed in shifts to keep distancing possible. Phyllis has always been a driving force behind the scenes at Holy Cross—helping in whatever way is needed to make student activities possible. Phyllis joined Holy Cross in 2000, initially as an office manager and school events coordinator in the school office. Previously she worked at Saint Angela Hall, the sisters’ retirement community located next to the Academy. “I learned about the Holy Cross charism from women who had spent their entire adult lives living out the values.” Her daughter Megan Ochs ’02 was a sophomore at the time. “She graduated and I stayed behind.” Phyllis has continued to be involved with Student Services throughout her tenure. She says that her work with the students is what keeps her “charged.” She says, “I love seeing the growth and potential in our girls. I always feel like I have a glimpse into the future as I watch them grow from freshman year to graduating seniors.” Phyllis has done many different types of jobs here and currently serves as the Director of Student Services. She’s coordinated the All-School Assembly program, moderated Student Council, supervised clubs, supervised school dances, served as school Sacristan, and produced the Daily Bagpipe announcements and online calendar. Additionally, she has served as the organizer for student summer trips to Europe. During the pandemic, like nearly everyone at Holy Cross, Phyllis’ job required some adapting as well. “I became more tech-savvy very quickly! All of our Advisory activities included online sharing of resources. If you had asked me in 2019 what a Pear Deck was, I would have said “a stack of fruit.” Even our annual Club Fair was converted into a web page of individual video presentations and electronic sign ups.” Phyllis devotes countless hours to Holy Cross but believes that the dedication she gives is worth the time. “I really believe in the mission and the core values. You don’t turn off “being a Holy Cross girl” when you leave the campus. You live the mission.” She also has many wonderful memories of experiences here. “The guest speakers we’ve hosted over the years (Sister Helen Prejean stands out) and the once-in-a-lifetime opportunities—like going downtown to see Pope Francis—have been very special.” Over the years, Phyllis has observed much growth and change. She says the school has greatly improved since she first arrived. “Our teachers are incredibly creative and innovative—they feed intellectual curiosity.” She appreciates the work the current administration has done to move the school forward. “They’ve made much needed changes to the physical plant, the curriculum and to providing our students with a great four-year experience.”
THE ACADEMY OF THE HOLY CROSS 5
