The Academy of the Holy Cross does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, or national or ethnic origin in its educational policy, personnel policies, admission policies, scholarship and financial aid programs or other school-administered programs.
The Tartan is a publication of The Academy of the Holy Cross.
The Academy of the Holy Cross, a Catholic college preparatory school sponsored by the Sisters of the Holy Cross since 1868, is dedicated to educating young women in a Christ-centered community which values diversity. The Academy is committed to developing women of courage, compassion and scholarship who responsibly embrace the social, spiritual and intellectual challenges of the world.
Kathleen Ryan Prebble President/CEO
John
Sullivan Principal
MAGAZINE STAFF
Danielle Mahaney Ballantine ’86 Editor Director of Communications
Cassandra Hoye Director of Advancement
FROM THE PRESIDENT
Dear Holy Cross Community,
Last summer, we received the Final Report of the AIMS Accreditation Visiting Committee. It was deeply satisfying to know that Holy Cross was commended multiple times for its “steadfast commitment to its mission, which guides the decision-making process and daily operations.” The Committee also commended the school for “engaging students in an academic and extracurricular program that supports the School’s mission to develop women of courage, compassion and scholarship in a Christ-centered community.” As we submit our Action Plan, the final step in the process of accreditation, we are reviewing all of the commendations and recommendations shared in the report.
This past year as the Board of Trustees engaged in a Strategic Planning Process, the consultants who led the process interviewed members of our school community, both past and present, to help identify what makes Holy Cross special. They repeatedly heard that Holy Cross is a place where girls learn to be leaders and the overwhelming majority of interviewees described Holy Cross graduates as confident. I often quote Sister Madeleva Wolff, president of St. Mary’s College for almost 30 years. “We promise you discovery, the discovery of yourselves, the discovery of the universe and your place in it.” It is this promise of self-discovery expressed by Sister Madeleva that resonates with our girls during their years at Holy Cross. Madeleva’s vision for “educating women of tomorrow” is what makes Holy Cross such a powerful place.
Our community is truly blessed with many gifts – most significant is our passion for embracing Catholic social justice teachings, which has been part of the school’s rich history. These teachings encourage us to engage with the world and work towards building a more just and compassionate world. Without that passion, our Moreau Options Program would not exist today. This magazine shares the many stories of our students, who dedicatedly make positive differences in the lives of others.
As we celebrate our 155th anniversary, we remember those whose shoulders we stand upon, the many dedicated Sisters, faculty and staff who worked tirelessly to ensure that our mission is the driving force behind all we do. We are grateful to be part of this tradition as the story continues.
Sincerely,
Kathleen R. Prebble President and CEO
It is not the place that makes people holy; rather it is the people that make the place holy.
-Blessed Basil Moreau
Charly RyanTRANSFORMING LANDSCAPES
Charly Ryan’s development work began long before her first time going past Holy Cross’ field and up its winding drive in 2008 as Director of Institutional Advancement. Starting as a volunteer fundraiser for her daughter and son’s school and as a member and mission-trip coordinator for her own Potomac Methodist Church, Charly’s first calling to development work was the relationship building projects, remembered more by personal interactions and people than dollars and cents.
“I was really surprised, when I came to Holy Cross, there was no drama,” said Charly, having never worked at an allgirls school. “The girls really liked each other and I was really impressed by their relationships and I just thought it was really, really nice that they liked each other and the parents who I met were so supportive.”
“The amount of time, energy and work that goes into successfully running the auction is immense and we always felt so happy and proud afterwards,” said Beth. “Charly had such a vast amount of knowledge and I learned so much from her. She was a wonderful boss.”
According to Beth, Charly’s understanding, trusting and personable nature—always asking about people’s families and what was important to them—was a big part of why she was so good at her job.
Charly extended her listening ear to those who wanted Holy Cross’ turf field, helping the Athletics-targeted endeavor take shape with families, like the Ridgeways and Slaters. She extended it to Barbara Hayes ’56, before her passing, resulting in a donation that founded Holy Cross’ Barbara Hayes Theatre Lobby. She extended it to the husband of Barbara Hooke Michaels, resulting in the student commons acquiring Barbara as its namesake. By extending a listening ear to members of the Class of ’56, in 2011, she learned the story of how the statue of the Blessed Mother came to rest in Holy Cross’ front circle.
“It turns out that it was members of the Class of ’56 that went to Upton Street and had the statue brought to Holy Cross in the back of one of the husband’s trucks,” said Charly. “It was Barbara Heister Swope ’56 and Nancy Wright Greene ’56. I became friends with those ladies, I just love them. I’ve met some really great people that I’ll be friends with for life.”
Now retired with a long hip-surgery recovery underway, she sees a legacy of fundraising and outreach continuing in her own daughter’s Advancement profession. In her son, she sees her legacy of volunteerism matching her passion for animal welfare and rescue, which she hopes to continue in retirement.
Charly (center) with Ines and Sofia Krom AHC alum_Krom chaired gala for 4 yrs
Donna Bruton, Charly, Mark Chapman, Kathleen Bula, Beth Boylan
FACULTY SPOTLIGHTS
FACULTY SPOTLIGHT: ALISON SIMON
Teaching the Whole Student
Taking a nonlinear road from pre-med to science teacher, Holy Cross STEM Coordinator and Science Department Chair Alison Simon discovered midway through her undergraduate degree in Neurobiology and Behavior at Cornell that her love of learning surpassed ambitions to become a doctor.
“[The] intersection of humanities and science enthralled me,” said Alison. “I went abroad to Kings College London and found myself exchanging courses in cell biology for classes about Arthurian romance and 1870s French politics.”
A push from the head of the summer program where she was a camp-counselor, Alison began teaching. In 2017, she arrived at Holy Cross, eventually teaching a variety of biology classes and Project Lead The Way (PLTW) Honors Environmental Sustainability.
“Many of my favorite moments are watching a student grow during their final year—from the first 7:30 a.m. AP Biology lab to the moment they cross the altar at the Shrine, diploma in hand,” said Alison.
One such senior was Taz Stone ’23. Describing Alison as “compassionate” in getting to know every student, Taz recalled a point at which she was struggling to learn Genetics.
“It seemed like every other student understood what we were learning, except me,” said Taz. “[Alison] sat down with me for an hour [of] undivided attention, explaining the unit in a way I could understand—[it] became one of my favorites.”
Pursuing a university degree in Psychology, Taz attributes Alison’s teaching methods, excitement, patience and push for inquisitiveness with real-world applications of the sciences for influencing her own confidence, investigations into human behavior and desire to similarly impact the larger world.
For four years, Alison’s Global Health class has run the Academy’s menstrual product drive to support the local nonprofit I Support the Girls, supplying products to those affected by homelessness, poverty, domestic violence and natural disasters. Since 2021, Alison has partnered with Director of Social Justice Maika Walker ’07, on this and other projects, like Holy Cross’ spring 2023-installed Cropbox.
“Most recently, the Bake for Hope Club that I moderate partnered with the Science department on a liquid nitrogen ice cream fundraiser,” said Maika. “Alison spearheaded the project, and we teamed up to raise money for an organization that her students wanted to support. Holy Cross has built its education on the teachings of Blessed Basil Moreau, who believed that we, as teachers, are called to develop both the minds and the hearts of our students. Alison has embraced this holistic approach.”
Alison Simon and her 2022-graduated advisees.
Alison Simon with husband, Brian, and daughter, Ella (14) and Ian (10).
FACULTY SPOTLIGHT:
DAVID LEVIN
Cambiando el ritmo, ...haciendo crecer la comunidad
ANNA MARIE AVILA
You’re studying for exams, readying presentations, trying to ignore the clock’s tick, tick, tick. Yet, as you make your way into the classroom of your Holy Cross Spanish teacher, Sr. David Levin, not only does calmness take over, …improvisational games are in play?
At least once per semester, David’s Spanish classes incorporate examtime interdisciplinary learning, and with it, Arts Department Performing Arts Teacher and Technical Theatre Director Dale Placek. The two educators connected remotely David’s first year at Holy Cross, 2020.
“We discovered our common background in theatre, and our common goal of trying to find creative, non-traditional ways to energize students’ engagement and learning, and to simply just have more [learning-focused] fun in the classroom,” said Dale. “Sr. Levin [was] looking for a way to ‘change up the rhythm.’”
Dale’s Spanish improv visits are among David’s favorite school experiences, as is speaking with students, hosting GALA Hispanic Theatre field trips, eating tacos with facilities staff, playing school ping pong and witnessing advisees’ Holy Cross Day school spirit.
Conversely, Dale has witnessed David’s strengths in helping students host a globally diverse Hispanic Heritage Month assembly—strengths of an active and engaging approach to students, commitment and resourcefulness.
The Mexico City native began teaching high school humanities in his home town. Emigrating to the United States in 2011, with wife Norda and sons, Julian (23) and Jordan (20), he expanded his instruction’s breadth to teach English as a second language (ESL) learners and those with learning disabilities. During his Holy Cross tenure, David now leads advanced Spanish courses.
According to students, David brings the same desire to impassion well-roundedness, curiosity and community to his class as he enjoys on family museum visits and nature walks.
Spanish Club President Gabriela “Gaby” Lopez ’24, believes, David’s effective teaching style results in many students scoring highly on the National Spanish Exam and passing AP exams. Her favorite memory of him is making celebratory quesadillas after one such exam.
“Sr. Levin inspires his students to follow their passions and tells them that they can successfully accomplish anything with hard work,” said Gaby.
Spanish and Ping Pong club member and improv enthusiast Abigail “Abi” Sloan ’24 said, “everyone is inclusive [in his classes] and it’s a very positive environment, plus the Spanish potlucks are spectacular.”
VALEDICTORIAN MOLLY MCDONOUGH
Advances Holy Cross Social Justice Offerings
Holy Cross’ Molly Catherine McDonough ’23 graduated from the Academy on June 5, 2023, as its 155th valedictorian, and its first Girl Up club president. Founding the Holy Cross-based chapter of the 152-country-spanning international gender justice club, Molly spearheaded education, fundraising, advocacy and service components to foster wider-reaching and accelerated social change.
Molly’s commitment to serving others also featured in her roles as a One Love student leader, a member of the Health and Wellness board and a regular ROCK-KIDZ Mentoring Program volunteer mentor at Beall Elementary School.
As vigorously as Molly led in serving others, she pursued her own academic interests. Absorbed by STEM courses focusing on engineering and physics, she also excelled in rigorous math and English coursework. Such studiousness culminated into her acceptance to the University of Notre Dame to study biomedical engineering, starting in 2023. While at Holy Cross, her academic memberships included: the Sancta Crux Scholars program, National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta (math honor society), Science National Honor Society and the Latin National Honor Society.
Regularly singing as a Mass cantor and the National Anthem at the last two years of Holy Cross volleyball games, she also foreshadowed her connection to her new alma mater with solos before two Notre Dame basketball games at the Capital One Arena. Through her junior year, Molly played volleyball at Holy Cross and the Chesapeaker-serving MVSA Volleyball Club. She also played basketball during her freshman and sophomore years.
Prior to attending Holy Cross, Molly attended St. Elizabeth Catholic School in Rockville, Md.
SALUTATORIAN REESE LONG
Pioneers in Holy Cross STEM Courses
Matriculation of Holy Cross Commencement Salutatorian Reese Michelle Long ’23 on June 5, 2023, marked her as the Academy’s first student to graduate having completed its full available Project Lead the Way (PLTW) STEM curriculum. Her Holy Cross PLTW course-list included: Honors Introduction to Engineering, Honors Principles of Engineering, AP Computer Science Principles and Honors Environmental Sustainability.
Set to study mechanical engineering at the University of Michigan - Ann Arbor, starting in the 2023 Fall Term, Reese was first encouraged in her engineering pursuits through the PLTW program and as a Gillespie STEM Scholar. As a result of her early exposure, Reese was able to narrow the focus of her engineering degree to environmental and automotive engineering.
Beyond her scientific pursuits, she exercised writing, directing and production interests through Holy Cross’ Performing Arts department. A member of every Holy Cross Performing Arts club, not only did she participate in drama productions all four years, she wrote and directed the spring 2022 show.
Reese’s academic accolades also include designations as a Sancta Crux Scholar, Madeleva Scholar, National Honor Society member, Science National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta (math honor society), and International Thespian Society.
Reese joined Holy Cross from St. Jane De Chantal School in Bethesda, Md., where she is also a parishioner. In her free time, she enjoys creative writing, paddle boarding, and car repairs.
HOLY CROSS DONATES $1,500 TO BREAST CANCER RESEARCH IN MME.
MILLER’S MEMORY
Holy Cross donated $1,500 to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation in memory of Holy Cross French teacher Mme. Aurelie Miller, who passed away on July 11, 2022.
Aurelie was a faculty member of the World Languages department as a French teacher for five years and is survived by her husband, William, and two children.
Contributions for this ultimate donation were made in October 2022–the results of Holy Cross Athletic office and Booster Club sponsoring several “Pink Week” fundraising events as part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
The BCRF is the highest-rated breast cancer charity in the United States, providing funding for cancer research worldwide.
On Tuesday, November 8, 2022, Mme. Miller’s husband attended the Academy’s All-School Assembly to thank the community for the donation in her memory.
Top: Mme. Aurelie Miller’s husband, Holy Cross students and former Athletic Director Dena Saunders at check presentation on Nov. 8, 2022.
Right: Mme. Aurelie Miller.
HOLY CROSS COMMUNITY CELEBRATES FEAST DAY WITH CARDINAL GREGORY
The Holy Cross community celebrated the Feast of the Exaltation of the Cross with a special Mass with Archbishop of Washington Cardinal Wilton Gregory on Sept. 14, 2022. Special guests for the liturgy included five Sisters of the Holy Cross: Sister Brenda Cousins, CSC; Sister Paula Goettelmann ’60, CSC; Sister Sharon Ann Mihm ’63, CSC; Sister Ruth Marie Nickerson ’61, CSC; and Sister Sharlet Wagner, CSC.
The Catholic Standard featured an article about the Mass, including the cardinal’s homily, which focused on Pope Francis’ August 2022-released world prayer intention for the eradication of the death penalty. The article quoted Cardinal Gregory’s remark that “the ‘triumph of the cross’ has become a symbol of ‘life, hope, promise, and glory.’”
In his homily, Cardinal Gregory noted, the death penalty has been unjustly applied, especially in countries outside the United States, where it has been used to kill innocent people. He identified Jesus’ death on the cross as the ultimate example of the death penalty, but one over which Jesus triumphed.
The Holy Cross Student Council presented Cardinal Gregory with a $1,000 gift to the Archdiocese of Washington’s Community Food Security Program and a gift to the Sisters of the Holy Cross for their educational ministry.
2023 Commencement
MARKS HISTORIC FIRSTS
Awarded: $22+ in scholarships
Baccalaureate:
Sunday, June 4, 2023
Holy Redeemer Church in Kensington, Md.
Commencement: Monday, June 5, 2023
Basilica of the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception
Valedictorian: Molly McDonough ’23
Salutatorian: Reese Long ’23
Commencement Speaker: Patty Davitt Long ’82
The Academy of the Holy Cross graduated 98 students in its 155th commencement on June 5, 2023, with a good number of historic firsts.
Hosted by the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C., the event celebrated the Class of 2023’s accomplishments, including receipt of more than $22,260,000 in scholarships—the largest per capita scholarship amount in the history of the school.
The event marked the first-ever designation of both a Holy Cross salutatorian and valedictorian with St. Mary’s Resource Program-aided learning differences. President Katy Prebble stressed the resilience of the Class of 2023 in having begun their high school experience with a freshmen year marked by the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. In response to such difficulties, the class, spanning nearly 70 majors, was also responsible for initiating the diversity and inclusion programs now available at the school.
Set to study biomedical engineering at the University of Notre Dame, Valedictorian Molly Catherine McDonough ’23, emphasized the nature of inclusivity she witnessed as a student at Holy Cross.
“To me, a Tartan is representative of brilliant union of faithful commonalities and immeasurable differences,” said Molly. “We are defined by our distinctive interpretations of courage, compassion and scholarship.”
Such scholarship heavily featured Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) in the lineup. Like Molly, Salutatorian Reese Michelle Long, ’23, will not only be studying engineering—having accepted an offer from the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor to study engineering with an environmental and automotive focus—but similarly thanked a number of Holy Cross’ mentoring teachers, including those from the science department and Saint Mary’s Resource Program, as instrumental in guiding her towards her current career path.
“Not only did they teach me to advocate for my unique learning style, but they also helped me to reconsider what it meant to be a student with a learning disability,” said Reese.
The commencement speaker, Railway Supply Institute (RSI) President Patty Davitt Long ’82, a former Holy Cross student, parent and Board of Trustees member, was recognized for her dedication and years of service to the school by President Prebble with the school’s first-ever issued honorary diploma.
“Let us also learn to embrace failure and learn from it,” said Principal John Sullivan in closing.
However, Patty’s message resonated long thereafter: “Life gives you challenges you didn’t expect, but also wonderful gifts that you didn’t even know to ask for.”
Class of 1973 50th anniversary year alumnae were celebrated
The Cardinal Award for Catholic Citizenship: Christina Young
Sister Grace Award: Anna Jasinski and Roseclaire Kontchou
St. Andre Bessette Citizenship Award: Daniella Latty
Spes Unica Award: Preeti Kulkarni and Megan O’Neil
The Sisters of the Holy Cross Award: Teresa Edwards and Emma Gomes
CROPBOX DEDICATION LAUNCHES PARTNERSHIP TO FEED THE HUNGRY
Under the morning sunshine, on May 11, 2023, The Academy of the Holy Cross hosted a dedication ceremony of its newly-installed Cropbox. This reformatted shipping container, having since yielded crops, was announced to be a means for not only students’ learning and service, but significantly, donations to area food pantries through the John S. Mulholland Family Foundation. Growing fresh produce using hydroponics, a water-based solution, rather than soil, the project is a result of the vision and generosity of Leah Durant of Leah V. Durant and Associates and Family. Ms. Durant is also the founder of the Center for Urban Sustainability Projects (CUSP).
Ms. Durant partnered with the John S. Mulholland Family Foundation’s Brian Mulholland to find an area Catholic school to house the Cropbox, learn the technology, manage the growing and harvest the produce. Brian Mulholland contacted Holy Cross President Katy Prebble, who jumped at the opportunity for combining social justice and environmental science education.
L-R) Principal John Sullivan, Abigail Sloan ’24, Gabriela Lopez ’24, Director of Social Justice Maika Walker, Science Chair Alison Simon, Director of Campus Ministry Linda Ruszkowski, Brian Mulholland, Patrick Mulholland, Leah Durant, Lawrence Durant, Nancy Durant, Rev. Scott Hahn, President Katy Prebble, Zoe Wilson ’24, Veronica Gomez ’24,
During the dedication, Ms. Prebble, Brian Mulholland and Mr. Durant addressed the entire Holy Cross school community and special guests. They offered words of gratitude for the partnership and vision that brought the project to life. The dedication included a blessing by Rev. Scott Hahn, a member of the John S. Mulholland Family Foundation board, as well as a ribbon cutting.
Shortly after the launch, hydroponic horticultural technicians Nancy and Lawrence Durant provided specialized training to the project’s key faculty. These include: Maika Walker’ 07, director of Social Justice; Linda Ruszkowski, director of Campus Ministry; and Alison Simon, chair of the science department. Starting in the fall of 2023, students will also be trained to grow and care for the plants and the Cropbox environment, while learning about environmental sustainability and feeding the hungry.
With the first produce harvests already distributed to food pantries by the foundation, Holy Cross volunteers will maintain the project through the summer and into the fall, when students return to participate.
NEWS FROM CAMPUS
HOLY CROSS RECOGNIZED FOR COMPUTER SCIENCE DIVERSITY FOR THIRD YEAR
College Board has awarded Holy Cross its AP® Computer Science Female Diversity Award for the third consecutive year. Holy Cross is one of only 832 schools to be recognized for this achievement, as a result of expanding young women’s access to Advanced Placement Computer Science Principles (CSP).
Female students remain underrepresented nationally in high school computer science classes, currently accounting for 33 percent of AP Computer Science Principles participants and 25 percent of AP Computer Science A participants.
Providing female students with access to computer science courses is critical to ensuring gender parity in the industry’s high-paying jobs and to driving innovation, creativity, and representation. The median annual wage for computer and information technology occupations was $97,430 in May 2021. Yet, women represent less than a quarter of the five million people in computing occupations.
HOLY CROSS 2022 VETERAN AND NOVICE TEACHERS OF THE YEAR
Donna Reese ’77 received the 2022 Holy Cross Veteran Teacher of the Year Award and Ashley Gardner is the Novice Teacher of the Year Award recipient.
The Archdiocese of Washington High School Principals Association annually recognizes a Novice and Veteran teacher from each of the Catholic high schools in the diocese for their service to Catholic education. Honorees are peer-selected and chosen for embracing teaching as a ministry, proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ and demonstrating respect for the Catholic identity and charism of the school. Veteran teachers are considered for such characteristics as modelling a leadership style of respect, having a commitment to personal and professional growth and engaging in developing students within and outside of the classroom. Evaluated novice teacher characteristics include demonstrating commitment to spiritual growth of the community, showing desire for academic excellence and commitment to professional standards, and caring deeply about the well-being of students, earning respect from both students and teachers.
Donna joined the Performing Arts faculty in 2002 to build the dance program. Through her mentoring and leadership, she has introduced the joy of dance to hundreds of Holy Cross students. She choreographs and directs two full dance concerts featuring students in the dance classes each year that play to sellout crowds. She also directs the Adrenaline Dance Team of more-experienced dancers and choreographs the dance portion of school musical productions. Donna also serves as a moderator for the Pro-Life and Young Conservative clubs. A proud alumna, Donna is an integral part of Holy Cross.
Ashley joined the Science faculty in 2020 and has established herself as an exemplary teacher and leader. Her enthusiasm is evident in everything she does in the classroom in her involvement in the Holy Cross community. As our Student Council moderator, Ashley has embraced big projects with an attitude of excitement and determination to make them successful and fun. She collaborates easily with her fellow faculty members and mentors our students to learn important organization life skills. Holy Cross is thrilled to have Ashley in our community.
Donna Reese ’77
Ashley Gardner
NEWS FROM CAMPUS SANCTA CRUX SCHOLARS
TAKE TO THE CAPITOL FOR LEARNING
Holy Cross’ Sancta Crux Scholars kicked-off 2023 with field trips to the nation’s capital in search of learning experiences beyond the classroom.
Program freshmen completed a January guided tour of the United States Capitol Building. At tour stops, like the Rotunda, the Old Senate Chamber and Statuary Hall, they established real-world connections to classroom instruction and assignments.
The month continued with sophomores visiting the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum (USHMM), exploring, asking questions and journaling personal thoughts and emotions. Upon returning to campus, they gathered in small groups, sharing their museum-prompted observations and reactions to this dark period of human history. The experience provided students an opportunity to critically engage with the events surrounding World War II and the Holocaust with Sancta Crux peers.
In February 2023, juniors visited the National Law Enforcement Museum, participating in a Crime Scene Investigation crash course and exploring museum artifacts.
Field trips like these are a hallmark of the Sancta Crux Scholars Program, encouraging students to apply academic skills and gain knowledge beyond Holy Cross’ classrooms or campus. Program scholars follow a more rigorous academic schedule than the standard academic track.
HOLY CROSS SENIOR PREETI KULKARNI
NAMED EXTRAORDINARY TEEN
Holy Cross’ Preeti Kulkarni ’23 was selected by Bethesda Magazine as one of their 2023 Extraordinary Teens and featured in their March/April 2023 issue. Recipients are selected for excelling in academics, leadership, extracurriculars, service, passion and creativity, or overcoming adversity.
Preeti is the fifth Holy Cross student to be selected for this honor. Previous recipients include: Cheyenne DeGross ’22, Juliette Bostrom ’21, Preetam Bhutani ’20, and Theresa Brogan ’18.
Dedicated to political activism since seventh grade, Preeti holds a variety of leadership roles while still maintaining a strong academic standing. Her Holy Cross positions include: Young Progressives club co-leader, Asian American Pacific Islander club president and Anti-Racism and Social Justice Advocacy Board member.
Her external roles include Maryland State Chapter of Voters of Tomorrow Director and numerous others in support of voting registration. During the summer of 2022, Preeti was selected for Democracy Summer, a six-week leadership training program on political organizing founded by U.S. Rep. Jamie B. Raskin (D-Md.)
Hindu in faith, Preeti felt tremendous acceptance at Holy Cross and prioritizes listening as the most important tool in finding common ground with others. Hopeful that her generation can achieve real bipartisanship, Preeti is studying political science in college. She is also a published poet working on her third book of poetry,
NEWS FROM CAMPUS
PEER MINISTERS RECOGNIZED IN HOLY CROSS ASSOCIATES CONTEST
Peer Ministers Teresa Edwards 23’ and Ijrhaeht Yngrid Bermudo placed second and third in the top three finalists for their respective video and essays in the Midwest Holy Cross Associates (MHCA) contest “Crossing Borders, Growing Family.” The contest focused on how our Holy Cross school promotes the charism of family. For this, they were awarded a monetary prize and presented their submissions at the January 2023 Holy Cross Associates Conference. Honorable mentions recipients by category and name included:
Back Row (L-R) Director of Campus Ministry Linda Ruszkowski, Dakota Dannett ’23, Teresa Edwards ’23, Daniella Suarez ’23, Kayla Norris ’23, Cathryn Beggy ’23, President Katy Prebble; Front Row (L-R) Tiffany Costa ’23, Katherine Blick ’23, Ijrhaeht Yngrid Bermudo ’23
HOLY CROSS SCHOLARSHIP ESSAY WINNERS RECOGNIZED BY JOHN CARROLL SOCIETY
Holy Cross’ Esme Dorsey ’24 placed first in the Margaret Mary Missar/ John Carroll Society High School and Junior High School Scholarship Program essay competition. According to the Catholic Standard, her essay examined how young people today can say “yes” to a life of faith and service in imitation of Mary’s “yes” to the angel Gabriel. Others recognized included:
Third Place – Meredith Dunsmore ’24
Honorable Mention - Olivia Bolz ’24, Eliza D’Albora ’25, Grace Pressley ’24, Jillian Savukinas ’24, Mae Zaremba ’24
(L-R) Jillian Savukinas ’24, Eliza D’Albora ’25, Esme Dorsey ’24, Mae Zaremba ’24, Grace Pressley ’24, Meredith Dunsmore ’24 (Not
Since 1997, the John Carroll Society has offered scholarships to freshmen, sophomores and juniors attending the Catholic high schools of the Archdiocese of Washington, D.C. The Society bases the awards on essays and videos submitted by students on topics identified by the Society to encourage students to reflect more deeply on their faith.
Pictured: Olivia Bolz ’24)
HOLY CROSS’ LIVIA URBAN DESIGNS COVER FOR DISABILITIES AWARENESS COLORING BOOK CODEYOURSELF COMPETITION
The artwork of Livia Urban ’25 was chosen for the front cover of the “Together We’re Better” (TWB) Coloring Book. TWB is a program of The Arc of Maryland, in partnership with the Developmental Disabilities Council, the Maryland State Department of Education and the Maryland Department of Disabilities to raise awareness of the value and importance of inclusion of students with disabilities.
The LOTA Coders club sponsored the national Code/Art CodeYourSelf competition at Holy Cross during 2022’s Computer Science Education Week (CS Ed Week) in November. Two students were selected by Code/Art as winners—Livia Urban ’25 was awarded Finalist, and Caroline “Carly” Elliott ’26 was awarded Honorable Mention. This was Livia’s second year receiving an award in the competition.
In November 2022, Isabella Ayalew ’23 was named a Coca-Cola Scholar Semifinalist. She was chosen from among more than 91,000 applicants for her outstanding leadership, academics, and dedication to community. All Semifinalists were then considered for one of 150 Regional Finalist slots.
The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation exists to better the world through investment in exceptional high school students who are dedicated to leadership, service and action that positively affects others.
ARTIST SANDRA DAVIS SPEAKS WITH AP ART STUDENTS
Holy Cross welcomed artist Sandra Davis to speak with the AP Art and Design students in March 2023. Ms. Davis was invited to speak about her art project, “Pull Up a Chair,” the inspiration for Holy Cross student artists’ version, “Take a Seat.”
Art Department Chair Mrs. Quondra Gaskins had students explore and research “decorative arts” or functional pieces as art, challenging them to each depict a story about differences, similarities, and what makes us the same, using a stool as their canvas.
After Ms. Davis spoke with the students about the process of bringing the project to life, her methods of creating her art and from where she draws her inspiration, students shared about their own art pieces, displayed in the Art hallway.
CLASS OF 2023 SANCTA CRUX AND MADELEVA SCHOLARS RECOGNIZED
Holy Cross recognized Class of 2023 Sancta Crux, Madeleva and Gillespie STEM Scholars for their achievements at an April 2023 evening ceremony in the Holy Cross Theatre.
Tiffany Costa ’23 opened the event, leading attendees in prayer, followed by Dean of Students Kathy Hannah, welcoming the scholars and their family members.
Sancta Crux Scholars Program Coordinator Raquel Licamele spoke next, offering an overview of the self-guided, curiosity-driven Sancta Crux Scholar experience with a reflection by program scholar Isabella Potakey ’23 thereafter.
Science Department Chair & STEM Coordinator Alison Simon then provided Gillespie STEM Scholars Program highlights and program scholar Reese Long ’23 reflected on her Holy Cross STEM experience.
For the final program overview, Madeleva Scholars Program Moderator & English Department Chair Dr. Megan Minogue addressed the crowd. Program scholars Carly Stocks ’23 and Christina Young ’23 were the final students to speak, each sharing their experience with the program’s signature research project.
After honor cords and ribbons were received by the honorees, President Katy Prebble concluded the program with remarks about the impressive career of Sister Mary Madeleva Wolff, C.S.C.
Class of 2023
Sancta Crux Scholars:
Chloe Amberman
Ijrhaeht Bermudo
Katherine Blick
Juliana Bove
Mia Branham
Alyssa Burgos
Amelia Butler
Julia Cardoza
Tiffany Costa
Eileen Depman
Teresa Edwards
Delia Fritz
Mackenzie Hoefer
Anna Jasinksi
Mary Kincer
Kelsey Lawson
Reese Long
Sarah Majdi
Blane Makonnen
Molly McDonough
Emily Micklos
Anna Miller
Megan O’Neil
Alexandra Ogilvie
Caroline Owan
Isabella Potakey
Katherine Sheetz
Sofia Stewart
Meghan Stone
Sara Thomas
Isabella Wood
Grace Wallace
Class of 2023
Madeleva Scholars:
Amelia Butler
Tiffany Costa
Eileen Depman
Teresa Edwards
Delia Fritz
Isabella Hooke
Anna Jasinski
Mary Kincer
Suzette Kincer
Preeti Kulkarni
Reese Long
Blane Makonnen
Anna Miller
Kayla Norris
Caroline Owan
Carly Stocks
Sara Thomas
Heaven Yohannes
Christina Young
Class of 2023 Gillespie
STEM Scholars:
Teresa Edwards
Reese Long
Anna Miller
NEWS FROM CAMPUS HONOR SOCIETIES INDUCTION CEREMONY
WELCOMES NEW MEMBERS
During the 2023 annual Honor Societies Induction Ceremony in April, Holy Cross inducted 73 students into the Academy’s chapters of the National Honor Society, Science National Honor Society, National Latin Honor Society, Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica, Le Société Honoraire de Français, Mu Alpha Theta and Rho Kappa. During the ceremony the current presidents of the languages honor societies recited the Our Father in Spanish, French and Latin. President Katy Prebble welcomed attendees to the program. Teresa Edwards ’23, president of the National Honor Society, gave a reflection of being a member of the NHS. This was followed by a candle-lighting ceremony for the pillars of the NHS – Scholarship, Service, Leadership and Character. Faculty and staff moderators led the induction ceremony for the seven honor societies. Dean of Students Kathy Hannah welcomed each inductee to the stage to receive their honor society certificates. Principal John Sullivan gave closing remarks.
National Honor Society
Inductees:
Samaa Afoke ’24
Alessandra Aguila ’24
Leyat Assefa ’24
Caitlin Balaguer ’24
Adore Bryant ’24
Erin Cuddy ’24
Annelies de Moor ’24
Catherine Della Rocca ’24
Esme Dorsey ’24
Molly Flynn ’24
Tatum Francois ’24
Patricia Freeman ’24
Ava Friedman ’24
Jillian Gardner ’24
Veronica Gomez ’24
Isabella Grijalba ’24
Kaitlyn Hite ’24
Maren Jasinski ’24
Margaret Kincer ’24
Charlotte Kinsley ’24
Chloe Kuzner ’24
Anna Larkin ’24
Daniella Latty ’24
Gabriela Lopez ’24
Clare Martin ’24
Sophia Massaro ’24
Isabella Moreno ’24
Yasmeen Nekoui ’24
Amelia Nelson ’24
Diana Petragnani ’24
Kaylee Ruleman ’24
Alexia-Maria Sandonas ’24
Jillian Savukinas ’24
Namika Sekamanya ’24
Emerson Sellman ’24
Emily Staub ’24
Faven Teklai ’24
Ana Tovar Diaz ’24
Rebecca Vogt ’24
Zoe Wilson ’24
Mae Zaremba ’24
Ava Zimmerman ’24
Science National Honor Society
Samaa Afoke ’24
Christina Argyros ’24
Caitlin Balaguer ’24
Catherine Beggy ’24
Kathryn Celeste ’23
Catherine Della Rocca ’24
Jillian Donahue ’23
Julia Finney ’24
Tatum Francois ’24
Ava Friedman ’24
Kaitlyn Hite ’24
Anna Jasinski ’23
Suzette Kincer ’23
Kayla Norris ’23
Diana Petragnani ’24
Isabella Potakey ’23
Kaylee Ruleman ’24
Katherine Sheetz ’23
Daniella Suarez ’23
Elena Sunderman ’24
Le Société Honoraire de Français
Esme Dorsey ’24
Yasmeen Nekoui ’24
Mu Alpha Theta
Samaa Afoke ’24
Alessandra Aguila ’24
Caitlin Balaguer ’24
Hannah Chen ’25
Eliza D’Albora ’25
Megan Depman ’25
Esme Dorsey ’24
Julia Finney ’24
Ava Friedman ’24
Jillian Gardner ’24
Ava Helgeson ’25
Gabrielle Hill ’25
Maren Jasinski ’24
Mary Jasper ’25
Chloe Kwok ’25
Charlotte Legrys ’25
Yasmeen Nekoui ’24
Meredith Nelson ’25
Stella Park ’25
Elsa Raedeke ’25
Kristen Ruddy ’25
Alexia-Maria Sandonas ’24
Ginger Sejismundo ’25
Isabella Sweeney ’25
Catherine-Hope Truscott ’25
Rebecca Vogt ’24
Zoe Wilson ’24
National Latin Honor Society
Eden Friedman ’23
Maren Jasinski ’24
Suzette Kincer ’23
Amelia Nelson ’24
Namika Sekamanya ’24
Rebecca Vogt ’24
Mae Zaremba ’24
Sociedad Honoraria
Hispánica
Ava Friedman ’24
Veronica Gomez ’24
Gabriela Lopez ’24
Isabella Moreno ’24
Francesca Rios ’24
Emerson Sellman ’24
Ana Tovar Diaz ’24
Heaven Yohannes ’23
Rho Kappa
Samaa Afoke ’24
Victoria Alvarez-Rojas ’24
Christina Argyros ’24
Leyat Assefa ’24
Adore Bryant ’24
Erin Cuddy ’24
Catherine Della Rocca ’24
Esme Dorsey ’24
Jillian Gardner ’24
Margaret Kincer ’24
Chloe Kuzner ’24
Anna Larkin ’24
Gabriela Lopez ’24
Isabella Moreno ’24
Yasmeen Nekoui ’24
Jillian Savukinas ’24
Mae Zaremba ’24
NEWS FROM CAMPUS
HOLY CROSS WELCOMES VISITORS FROM COLÉGIO SANTA CRUZ IN BRAZIL
Holy Cross welcomed three school administrators: Fábio Aidar, Headmaster; Débora Vaz, Academic Director; and Beatriz Gouvela, Kindergarten Director; from the Colégio Santa Cruz in Sao Paolo, Brazil in February. The guests met with President Katy Prebble and Principal John Sullivan. This was followed by a school tour led by Emma Gomes ’23, Ana Paula Campanario ’26 and Caroline Serra ’26, who conversed with the guests in Portuguese. Colégio Santa Cruz is a school for students in early childhood education through high school founded in 1952 by the Congregation of Santa Cruz (priests and brothers). Their founder is Blessed Basil Moreau, who also founded the Sisters of the Holy Cross.
(L-R) Ana Paula Campanrio ’26, Beatriz Gouvela, President Katy Prebble, Débora Vaz, Fábio Aidar, Caroline Serra ’26, Emma Gomes ’23
PRESIDENT OF ST. EDWARD’S UNIVERSITY VISITS
In February, Dr. Montse Fuentes, the new President of St. Edward’s University in Austin, TX, visited Holy Cross. While here, she met with President Katy Prebble, Principal John Sullivan and Director of College Counseling Jennifer Auchmoody. She then spoke to the freshman and sophomore Sancta Crux and Madeleva Scholars about St. Edward’s University, a Holy Cross college founded by the Congregation of Holy Cross priests. Dr. Fuentes concluded her visit with a tour led by a group of junior and senior student ambassadors.
Each year, St. Edward’s awards the Moreau Scholarship, a full-tuition scholarship, to one graduate from each of the Holy Cross high schools including the Academy.
(L-R) Principal John Sullivan, President Katy Prebble, Dr. Montse Fuentes, College Counseling Director Jennifer Auchmoody, College Counseling Assistant Director Shannon Donaldson
WHY I GIVE
Courage, compassion and scholarship are wonderful words, but sometimes not so easy to attain. The Academy of the Holy Cross has taught my three daughters that this mantra is not just words, but a way to live. I give to Holy Cross, because this administration has taught my daughters how to lead fearlessly and follow their hearts. The hope and prayer is that they learn how to be the best versions of themselves. The current faculty and staff have helped my daughters find their own individual voices. I give to Holy Cross, because the growth and confidence that I see in my daughters has made me so proud. This is something that every parent should be able to experience for their own children. The Academy of the Holy Cross has been an incredible experience for my family.
HOW CAN YOU PROMOTE HOLY CROSS? HOW CAN YOU PROMOTE HOLY CROSS?
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GIZELLE BRYANT (Mother of Grace ’23, Angel ’24 and Adore Bryant ’24)
NEWS FROM CAMPUS
BLACK HISTORY MONTH
The Holy Cross community celebrated Black History Month in February 2023 with a special assembly led by the Onyx Club.
The presentation included Grace Pressley ’24, who sang “I Know Where I’ve Been”; recitations by Daniella Latty ’23, Isabella Ayalew ’23, Lailah Horsford ’24, Aida Thior ’24, Hanne Saskia Sidney ’26 about who inspires them; a vision board presented by Phylicia Martin ’26; Olivia Cox ’23, Malaika Wotorson ’24, and Sophia Epshteyn ’26, an original dance performed by; and Jaiden Chambers ’23, Somgolie Okoye ’23, and Emmah Reese ’25, who sang “Stand Up.”
Videos were shown of Vice President Kamala Harris speaking about Black History Month and Misty Copeland, from the documentary about her history in ballet. President Katy Prebble gave concluding remarks thanking the work of the Onyx Club and faculty moderator Debrah Brown.
HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH
In October 2022, Holy Cross celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month with an assembly led by the Club de Español. The students presented about culture, food, music, politics and famous people. The club members displayed the different flags of the Hispanic countries and modeled different traditional dresses from several Latino/a/x cultures. They also presented popular dances and had a fun trivia contest. Additionally, members of the Club de Español worked with the Peer Ministers to coordinate the October 2022 all-school liturgy with songs and prayers in Spanish and English.
KINDNESS IN ACTION WEEK AT HOLY CROSS
Holy Cross embraced thoughtfulness during the annual Kindness in Action week in February 2023. The week was organized by the No Place for Hate committee with support from the Prism Club and Health and Wellness Committee. During the week, Kindness Quotes were read during the morning announcements and were displayed on the monitors throughout the school. One Tartan Time activity during the week, the Prism Club hosted Kindness Rocks - students were able to paint and decorate rocks with inspiring thoughts that were displayed throughout the building. During a second Tartan Time that week, the Health and Wellness Committee hosted an opportunity for students to create Self Care Packages, which included a DIY bath soak pack, a poem or note and a curated Spotify playlist in an origami envelope.
JUNIORS PARTICIPATE IN LEADERSHIP AND ETHICS CONFERENCE
Three Holy Cross juniors, Tatum Francois ’24, Ava Friedman ’24, and Natalie Selden ’24, attended the West Point Leadership & Ethics Conference for the National Capital Region in March at George Mason University. Holy Cross selects students who have self-nominated to attend this annual conference.
Using an ethical decision-making curriculum developed by the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, participants attend facilitated sessions where they develop solutions to leadership and ethical challenges typically faced by young adults. The day also includes keynote speakers who shared their perspectives on why ethics are fundamental to leadership. Natalie Selden was also selected by her group leader to participate in a scholarship contest–an honor given only 44 of the nearly 200+ participants.
NEWS FROM CAMPUS
INTERNATIONAL WEEK CELEBRATES CULTURES OF THE HOLY CROSS COMMUNITY
Holy Cross celebrated International Week, February 27, 2023 through March 3, 2023.
During a special all-school assembly to kick off the week, Holy Cross community members shared their cultural attire in a special fashion show. The countries of Philippines, India, Colombia, Poland, Cameroon, Ghana, Senegal, China, Vietnam, Nigeria, Ukraine, Peru and Ethiopia were represented.
Afterwards, classes competed against each other in International Jeopardy. During Tartan Time activities, students were invited to “Travel Around the World” to learn about different cultures with games, food and displays.
The week concluded with a Tartan Time celebration of international food, dance and music!
A special thanks to organizers: Director of Holy Cross Social Justice Maika Walker ’07 and Preeti Kulkarni ‘23.
HOLY CROSS CELEBRATES AAPI MONTH
In May 2023, members of the Asian American Student Association gave a presentation at the All-School Assembly about the history of AAPI (Asian American Pacific Islander) Month, celebrated in May, and notable people in the AAPI community. During a Tartan Time activity, the association members hosted activities in celebration of AAPI Month – including origami with Livia Urban ’25, AAPI bingo, traditional Asian snacks and green tea, books celebrating Asian culture and community and calligraphy by Catherine Yifan Jin ’24.
ARSJA ASSEMBLY AND SPEAKER EDUCATES HOLY CROSS ON THE CROWN ACT
In April, the Holy Cross Anti-Racism Social Justice Advocacy (ARSJA) Board led a special assembly for the entire school community — “Celebrate and Protect Your CROWN.” Students learned about the CROWN (Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair) Act from special guest speaker, Kelli Joy Lawson. Ms. Lawson’s work led to the creation of the CROWN Coalition and the CROWN Act legislation which ensures an individual’s protection. Ms. Lawson shared stories about the discrimination Black people have endured at work and school to wear their hair naturally and in the styles they choose such as braids, locs, twists, and knots. She also spoke about the importance for all people to have a sense of pride and love for themselves.
During the assembly, students wrote notes of positive affirmation to themselves and their classmates that were posted on lockers. They also created pink/green ribbons representing self-love and the love of others.
Kelli Joy Lawson is the Founder and CEO of The House of JOY and former co-founder of JOY Collective, a Black womanowned cultural insights, marketing, and creative agency committed to delivering breakthrough work. The CROWN Act legislation has passed in 20 states and 34 municipalities, positively impacting 20.6 million Black lives since 2019.
NEWS FROM CAMPUS
SENIOR ATHLETES COMMIT TO PLAY AT NCAA SCHOOLS
Five Class of 2023 athletes committed to play sports in college at NCAA D1 schools during special assemblies in November 2022 and May 2023.
Mary Allen ’23 is set to play lacrosse at University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Mary has played lacrosse for 11 years. In high school, she played on the Holy Cross varsity team all four years and played club lacrosse at MC Elite and Pride Black. In 2021 and 2022, Mary played on the DC Metro Team 1 in the USA National Lacrosse Tournament. Her team went undefeated and won their bracket in 2021.
Delia Fritz ’23 is committed to swim at Providence College. She trains year-round with the National Training Group at Rockville Montgomery Swim Club (RSMC), and swims for Garrett Park Ladybugs in the summer. She has been a four-year top swimmer in the Holy Cross program and is co-captain of this year’s team. Last season, Delia was named the Holy Cross MVP and was recognized as an All-WCAC second team.
Kayla Norris ’23 is set to play lacrosse at La Salle University. Kayla has played lacrosse for eight years, including four years on the varsity Holy Cross lacrosse team. She plays club lacrosse for Hero’s. Last year Kayla was recognized as a Co-Tartan award winner by her coaches.
Mikayla Stephens ’23 committed to running cross country and track at Marymount University in the fall. Mikayla ran cross country for four years, indoor track-one year, and outdoor track-two years. Mikayla was 2021 and 2022 MVP on Holy Cross’ cross country team.
Daniella Suarez ’23 is committed to play volleyball at Fairfield University. Daniella has played volleyball since she was 11 years old and started playing for Coach Geiser at age 12. She is a four-year varsity volleyball player at Holy Cross and was named All-WCAC second team in 2021 and 2022. She has played club volleyball for MVSA Vortex and Metro Volleyball Club of DC—ranked 16th in the country.
EMMI SELLMAN – MAKING #13 A LUCKY NUMBER
By the time Emerson “Emmi” Sellman ’24 arrived in Leon, Mexico, on Aug. 17, 2023, as #13 to play outside hitter on the 2023 FIVB Volleyball Women’s U21 World Championship Team, she’d already made her own luck, and sacrifices along with it.
Playing volleyball since age 12, the last five years on club volleyball teams, Emmi is no stranger to rigorous practices, drills and prioritizing her studies and grades amidst volleyball-related time commitments. Going into her fourth season as a varsity Tartan athlete, Emmi attributes her accomplishments to setting high expectations for herself, as well as the support of her parents, brother, coaches and more.
During the 2022-2023 school year, Emmi received many accolades - 2022 Gatorade Player of the Year, Washington Post All-Met Player of the Year/First Team, WCAC All-Conference Volleyball Player of the Year/First Team and Holy Cross Most Valuable Player.
In October of 2022, The Washington Post featured an article about Emmi being a dominant force on the Tartan Volleyball team. The article also noted that Emmi was a member of the USA Volleyball U19 (under-19) training team during the summer of 2022.
In the summer of 2023, she was selected to captain the Girls U19 World Championship Team. “When I found out […] I made the U19 National Team, I was super excited, because it was one of my biggest goals,” said Emmi. “I remember running over to my dad and giving him the biggest hug, and it was such an awesome moment.” Training in Colorado Springs, CO, and playing August 1-11, 2023, in Croatia and Hungary, Emmi and her team came back from a two-set deficit to defeat Turkey, taking home gold medals in the process.
Verbally committed to play volleyball in college at Ohio State University (NCAA Division I), Emmi next attended Under Armour’s July 2023 invite-only training camp there, shortly after playing in the 2023 USAV Nationals in Chicago.
Emmi was selected for the roster of the U21 World Cup Training team in July 2023. First training in Anaheim, CA, to begin training for the Mexico-based U21 World Cup, Emmi made the U21 team, traveling to Mexico to play August 17-26.
U21 ended with the Women’s World Championship Team placing sixth. Yet, Emmi continues on, making her own luck with Holy Cross’ values as her blueprint.
Entering her senior year and final season of Holy Cross Volleyball, winning the WCAC Championship is on her mind. “One of my biggest long-term goals is to play in the Olympics, so this would be a huge step towards that goal,” said Emmi. “The values Holy Cross teaches us to incorporate into our lives, such as courage, compassion, and scholarship are vital to the course of my volleyball career.”
NEWS FROM CAMPUS VOLLEYBALL COACH GEISER NAMED AVCA COACH OF THE YEAR
Coach Dave Geiser was recognized by the American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) in December of last year as a 2022 Girls High School All-Region Coach of the Year—one of only 40 girls’ volleyball coaches in the United States to receive such recognition.
For him, supporting female athletes as a volleyball coach began in 2003, coaching his own then-12-year-old daughter. By 2009, he was doing the same at Holy Cross, and by 2016, was teaching for the Academy, starting with chemistry classes, and adding the inaugural Project Lead the Way (PLTW) engineering class the following academic year.
Coach Geiser’s AVCA win was not so surprising to the Academy’s History and Social Studies Department Chair, Dr. Maureen Morris and her husband, Bill, who have known Dave for 17 years. “We got to know him well when he coached our daughter Brigid’s club team, MVSA U12s,” said Maureen. “Our daughter already loved playing volleyball, but Dave took her game to the next level by instructing her in technique and skill.”
“What drew me to playing for Holy Cross was Coach Geiser. I really liked the way he did things,” said one of his accomplished Holy Cross student-athletes, Emerson “Emmi” Sellman ’24. “I could tell he ran a tight program and was one of the best coaches in the area.”
With many treasured memories of coaching Tartan athletes, Coach Geiser’s standout memory was winning his first Washington Catholic Athletic Conference (WCAC) volleyball championship in his fourth season.
“We had a really strong team that year,” he said. “We were undefeated in the WCAC and had six future Division 1 players on that team including: recent hall of fame inductee Taylor Gallart (University of Central Florida); Rhamat Alhassan (Florida, 1st Team All-American); Carlise Cardoza (Howard University); Megan McTigue (Gatorade player of the year in 2015, UMd-College Park); Nell Drummey (UMd-College Park); and, Ellie Goodwin (UMd-Towson).”
Now, he looks toward the future of Volleyball at Holy Cross. Much like his humble appreciation for the unknown individual who nominated him for his AVAC win, Coach Geiser is quick to share recognition and a positive outlook for the volleyball team’s future.
“Holy Cross’ success in the sport of volleyball is a tribute to the athletes, the coaches and an administration dedicated to supporting female athletes achieve their goals,” he said. “Each year, a new team brings new relationships and new challenges, so while it is still the sport of volleyball, the coaching aspect never gets old.”
SWIMMERS RECOGNIZED FOR ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT
Ana Tovar Diaz ’24, Megan Depman ’25 and Delia Fritz ’23 were recognized by Potomac Valley Swimming with the 20212022 PVS Scholar Athlete Award, which recognizes the achievement of those who excelled in both academics and their swimming career.
NEWS FROM CAMPUS
ATHLETES RECOGNIZED
ALL-WCAC RECOGNITION
VOLLEYBALL
First Team/Player of the Year: Emerson Sellman ’23
Second Team: Daniella Suarez ’23
Honorable Mention: Teresa Edwards ’23, Prisha Francis ’23
First Team (50 Freestyle), Second Team (400 Freestyle Relay), Honorable Mention (100 Backstroke): Megan Depman ’25
Second Team (400 Freestyle Relay), Honorable Mention (200 Relay Medley): Elizabeth Link ’25, Mary Mongelli ’24
Second Team (200 Freestyle, 400 Freestyle Relay): Delia Fritz ’23
Honorable Mention (200 Relay Medley): Sophie Grahl ’26, Kaitlyn Grenham’26
BASKETBALL
Honorable Mention: Zoey Seymour ’25
MAGHL ICE HOCKEY RECOGNITION
First Team: Clare Martin ’24
COACH SHEAHAN EXCELLENCE AWARD 2023
Mae Zaremba ’24 was named the 2023 recipient of the Coach Sheahan Excellence Award.
The award is named after the late Bill Sheahan, who coached the Academy’s basketball team to its 115-game winning streak and enjoyed a 27-year relationship with the Academy. It is presented to a rising senior who exemplifies the values that Coach Sheahan ascribed to in his own life and coaching style. The award includes a scholarship towards tuition. It was presented on May 22, during the Underclass Awards program.
In her nomination of Mae, varsity lacrosse coach Katie Triplin wrote, ‘Mae is committed to excellence academically and athletically, while she is also committed to being a kind and compassionate friend to her teammates. Her relationship with God continues to be her compass as she strives to lead with empathy and kindness…. Mae aims to do the “right thing” and is passionate about her involvement with causes for populations who have a limited voice. She is consistently positive while demanding the very best effort from herself and her teammates… She truly understands that each individual is equally responsible for the success of a team.’
NEWS FROM CAMPUS
The 2022-2023 school year kicked off with the humor of November’s fall musical, “School of Rock,” and closed to the serenade of the spring music concert. Within the span, audiences also enjoyed the winter dance concert, winter music concert, “The SpongeBob Music” and spring dance concert.
“SCHOOL OF ROCK - THE MUSICAL” – NOVEMBER 2022
WINTER 2022 MUSIC CONCERT - DECEMBER 2022
SPRING
“THE SPONGEBOB MUSICAL” – APRIL 2023
WINTER
SPRING 2023 MUSIC CONCERT –
PERFORMING ARTS GALA
The Performing Arts Department held its annual End-of-Year Awards Gala and Honor Society Inductions in May 2023 to celebrate students for their performing arts achievements during the school year. Also, the graduating class of 2023 were acknowledged and thanked for their outstanding commitments to Performing Arts clubs and extracurricular activities. New inductees were welcomed into the three Performing Arts Honor Societies (theatre, dance and music) for next year.
THIS YEAR’S GALA AWARDEES WERE:
Performing Arts Club Award - Phylicia Martin ‘26, Chanda Chung ‘25
Freshman Award - Colette Johnson ‘26
Sophomore Award - Elsa Raedeke ‘25
Junior Award - Esme Dorsey ‘24
Senior Award - Emma Allan ‘23
Technical Theatre Award - Katherine Blick ‘23
Excellence Awards - Isabella Grijalba ‘24; Sophia Kranias ‘23, Anna Miller ‘23
Leadership Awards - Katherine Sheetz ‘23, Reese Long ‘23
The Performing Arts Cup – Meghan “Taz” Stone ‘23
STUDENTS NEWLY INDUCTED INTO PERFORMING ARTS HONOR SOCIETIES FOR THE 2023-2024 SCHOOL YEAR ARE:
International Thespian Society (Theatre): Elise Baumrucker ‘23, Margot Baumrucker ‘23, Madeline Beins ‘23, Emma Christakis ‘24, Alissa Christianson ‘25, Chanda Chung ‘25, Kyra Flatley ‘26, Colette Johnson ‘26, Phylicia Martin ‘26, Margaret Penndorf ‘26, Ava Ruggieri ‘24, Addison Ruszkowski ‘26, and Hope Truscott ‘25
Tri-M (Music): Elise Baumrucker ‘23, Margot Baumrucker ‘23, Emma Christakis ‘24, Esme Dorsey ‘24, Isabella Grijalba ‘24, Reese Long ‘23, Anna Miller ‘23, Addison Ruszkowski ‘26, Kathryn Silvey ‘25, Hope Truscott ‘25
National Honor Society for Dance Arts: Victoria Castilla-Toro ‘25, Lucille Harris ‘23
Congratulations to our seniors, new inductees, award winners, and to all students who participated in Holy Cross Performing Arts classes and productions this year!
NEWS FROM CAMPUS
DAY OF SERVICE PROVIDES “STRENGTH IN NUMBERS”
“Strength in Numbers,” the theme for the 2023 All-School Day of Service on Tuesday, April 25, was lived out as the entire school community ventured out in small groups to 26 different organizations to serve. The annual event was coordinated by Maika Walker ’07, director of Holy Cross Social Justice, with assistance from Linda Ruszkowski, director of Campus Ministry and student Peer Ministers.
Planning for the event takes months of arrangements including transportation to and from the sites, the types of service and number of volunteers needed, additional equipment required, chaperone coverage, and mandatory safety protocols at each site. Maika also coordinated a contest to select the artwork for the t-shirt everyone would receive and wear, won by Livia Urban ’25, organized the purchase of the shirts in five different colors and multiple sizes for over 400 people, and arranged several Tag Day out-of-uniform days to help defray costs. The result of her meticulous attention to details resulted in a day that gave students, faculty and staff the opportunity to live the Holy Cross mission of compassion and kindness.
The 26 organizations Holy Cross groups served included places where donations of clothing, food, personal items, and household goods were sorted and prepared recipients at places such as Interfaith Works, Nourish Now, Stepping Stones, A Wider Circle and Habitat for Humanity. At other locations, such as Raphael House, Interfaith Works, Anacostia Community Boathouse, Franciscan Monastery Garden, TRRC, Red Wiggler Community Farm, and NCCF-Greentree, the groups worked outside mulching, planting, weeding, gardening and sustainable farming. A group at Bikes for the World disassembled donated bikes to use parts in building new bikes to send to all around the world. Two groups at Interfaith Works hosted a lunchtime cookout for the residents. Groups at Community Reach, and L’Arche interacted with residents, visiting, singing together and playing games. At the end of the day, everyone remarked about the satisfaction of helping others and the joy at seeing their tasks accomplished.
MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. PRAYER SERVICE AND HOLY CROSS GIVES THANKS SERVICE PROJECT
The Holy Cross community came together to celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on January 13, 2023, at a special prayer service coordinated by Onyx Club members.
The service began with a welcome and opening prayer from Daniella Latty ’23, Onyx Club president. Jaiden Chambers ’23 sang “When I Pray” as a musical reflection, followed by a brief biography on Dr. King by Daniella. Zoe Wilson ’24, Selina Sosa ’23 and Arsema Abebe ’24 read excerpts from Dr. King’s speeches. Following a short video of Dr. King’s granddaughter reflecting on his legacy, Jaiden Chambers ’23, Grace Pressley ’25, Emmah Reese ’25 and Somgolie Okoye ’23 sang “Stand Up,” a song written in Dr. King’s memory.
After the prayer service, the entire school community participated in the Holy Cross Gives Thanks service project. Coordinated by our Holy Cross Social Justice office, the project was created in support of the Sisters of the Holy Cross commitment to Laudato Si’ Action Platform. Groups of students and faculty/staff worked together, creating educational materials for CSCoperated schools in Ghana and Uganda focused around seven themes: cyber safety, reimagining plastic, litter prevention, deforestation, solar power, recycling and the Laudato Si’ Action Platform. The groups worked together creating posters, videos, songs, and skits for their themes. The project was presented as a fun secret mission to complete.
The Sisters of the Holy Cross currently run ministries and schools all across the globe as part of the Laudato Si’ Action Platform. For Holy Cross Gives Thanks, we will be joining in the ongoing work that the Sisters are doing in the countries of Ghana and Uganda.
NEWS FROM CAMPUS SPRING BREAK URBAN CHALLENGE SERVICE IMMERSION TRIP
During the April 2023 Easter Break at Holy Cross, 17 students and three faculty/staff chaperones traveled to Camden, N.J., to participate in the Urban Challenge Service Immersion program at the Romero Center Ministries. The four-day retreat was organized by the Holy Cross Social Justice Office.
Through the lens of faith, the program helps participants gain an understanding of urban poverty, its causes, and the many issues that people living in these communities confront every day of their lives. Issues such as urban decay and abandonment, unemployment, hunger, violence, lack of access to quality education, lack of affordable housing, homelessness and environmental injustice.
While there, the group served daily in numerous locations in the Camden area. Service included: helping with the activities of an adult day program and a program for people with physical disabilities, assisting elementary teachers and visiting with the students, assembling food boxes and serving meals. as well as conducting trash pickup, repairs and storage organization for a beautification project.
When not actively engaged in community service, the group learned more about Catholic social teaching and toured the Camden area, meeting area residents and listening to their stories of resilience and hope. The Holy Cross group completed several service-learning activities about the cycle of poverty and how to bring justice to their own communities.
Director of Holy Cross Social Justice Maika Walker ’07 remarked, “In the few days that we were there, we grew closer as a group and had an incredible experience together!”
Maika encourages everyone to consider joining the group in 2024!
MENSTRUAL PRODUCT DRIVE COLLECTS OVER 20,000 ITEMS
The Holy Cross community collected more than 20,000 individual menstrual products during the 2022-2023 school-year’s Tackling Period Poverty Menstrual Product Drive Feb. 6-10, 2023. In just one week, items were collected as part of the school’s fourth annual drive for I Support the Girls. Donations of pads, tampons, liners, and wipes were then assembled into care packages by the Global Health Class and AHC Science Alliance Club.
WOMEN IN STEM BOOK DRIVE
The Onyx Club led the Holy Cross community in a weeklong Women in STEM Book Drive in March 2023. More than 100 children’s books focused on women in the STEM fields were collected during the drive and donated to St. Thomas More Catholic Academy in Washington, D.C., over the 2023 Easter break.
Zoe Wilson ‘ 24 and Gerald D. Smith, Jr. Principal St. Thomas Moore Academy
Kayla Norris ’23 and Katie Blick ’23 delivering the donations to I Support the Girls in Rockville, Md.
NEWS FROM CAMPUS LENTEN FOOD DRIVE
IS GRAND SUCCESS
The Holy Cross community collected more than 3,000 canned and non-perishable items as part of the March 2023 Lenten Food Drive.
The weeklong event was coordinated by the Holy Cross Social Justice Office with donations benefiting the John S. Mulholland Family Foundation. In turn, the foundation supports food pantries in Washington, D.C., with a completely volunteer staff, relying solely on the generosity of our donors and supporters.
This year featured a #FoodDriveFaceOff competition in which faculty, staff and coaches worked to gain the most donations made to keep them from receiving a pie in the face on March 31. Returning this year was the Empty Bowls Simple Supper on March 29. This event was a collaborative effort of the Home & School Association, Campus Ministry, the Art department and the Performing Arts department. Guests were welcomed to a meal of homemade soups in a handmade bowl, homemade breads and desserts. They also enjoyed performances in a coffeehouse-style environment.
CHESAPEAKE BAY FOUNDATION FIELD TRIP HELPS
STUDENTS LEARN ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY
The students in the Project Lead The Way-Honors Environmental Sustainability course traveled to the Karen Noonan Memorial Environmental Education Center in Dorchester County, MD, Wednesday-Friday, September 21-23 to participate in the Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF) educational program. The students participated in activities to help them learn about the watershed, its resources, and the threats to its existence. While there the students also followed a sustainable living challenge, by reducing water usage, lowering electricity usage, and eliminating food waste.
The experience left an impact on the students, who came back more aware of their usage of electricity in their everyday life and how their actions affect the world around them. Meghan “Taz” Stone ’23 remarked that the staff at the Noonan Center presented their information in a fun way by creating games to help the students learn and remember to be environmentally conscious. Reese Long ’23 noted that the CBF does a great job with ensuring that students who attend the program will leave feeling strongly that it’s up to everyone to preserve the area, “we don’t want to lose this.” The group learned about the importance of the oyster population to the ecosystem as well as to the economy and what the effect will be if the resource is lost.
The students were moved by the Noonan Center’s location where there is little industrial noise and light pollution, and they embraced “island time,” where projects are often dictated by the weather.
Holy Cross has participated in the CBF field trip for more than 10 years.
Last week students in the PLTW-Honors Environmental Sustainability class spent three days at the Karen Noonan Memorial Environmental Education Center for the annual Chesapeake Bay Foundation field trip. They participated in activities to help them learn about the ecosystem, its resources, and the threats to its existence. They also followed a sustainable living challenge, by reducing water usage, lowering electricity usage, and eliminating food waste.
NEWS FROM CAMPUS EMPOWERING THE AGES 2023 DISCUSSIONS
Holy Cross hosted weekly conversations with volunteers from Empowering the Ages for seven weeks in January and February 2023. The Crossing Paths intergenerational discussion program brings small groups of teens and older adults together for meaningful, thought-provoking discussions on a variety of topics. Adult volunteers share their life experiences and perspectives, while students work on communication skills and share their own perspectives. The program was coordinated by the Holy Cross Social Justice Office.
“YARDS FOR YEARDLEY” SUPPORTS ONE LOVE PROGRAM
Teresa Edwards ’23 and Teddy Kavanagh, a senior at Georgetown Prep, coordinated a fundraising 5K fun run/walk in April 2023 to support the One Love program. “Yards for Yeardley” took place on the Prep campus with the goal of promoting One Love in a fun and enjoyable way.
Participants at the event ran or walked the 12 laps on the track. Volunteers provided water and baked goods. Winners from Holy Cross included Annelies de Moor ’24 (22:43), Brennan Smith ’26 and Alexandra McCormick ’26 (24:30). The event also featured a participation competition among Holy Cross homeroom advisories, won by the Makuc Advisory. The event raised over $2,000 for the One Love program.
One Love is a national nonprofit which was created in honor of Yeardley Love, a former University of Virginia lacrosse player who was tragically killed by her abusive ex-boyfriend. Schools like Holy Cross receive the One Love material free and present it as part of the counseling program to help students understand the signs of an unhealthy relationship and provide helpful resources.
WHY WE GIVE
“My partner, Brad Boekeloo, and I are thrilled that our daughter, Maya, chose to attend the Academy of the Holy Cross. From the moment we began our association with AHC, we have been warmly welcomed and included. We appreciate the presence of a diverse student body, created by a school that prides itself in welcoming all. Here, there is an emphasis on the importance of giving back and approaching the world around you from a perspective of kindness and care. We believe these attitudes are invaluable and will stay with our daughter as she grows and develops. By giving, we hope we can help to share this experience with other girls in our community.”
DRS. STANLEY DRAKE AND BRAD BOEKELOO (Parents of Maya Boekeloo-Drake ’25)
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MARY
BROGAN AWARDED ANNUAL SISTER MADELEVA WOLFF WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP AWARD
Holy Cross’ second-ever Sister Madeleva Wolff Women in Leadership Award was awarded to Board Member Mary Brogan on May 9, 2023, at the Academy’s spring donor event in the Holy Cross Theatre. An alumna parent to Theresa Brogan ’18—a graduate of Vanderbilt University’s Next Steps Program and Holy Cross’ Moreau Options Program—Mary was considered for the now-annual award for her contributions of generosity, inspiration and wisdom to the school through a variety of facets. Amid celebrations for Distinguished Tartan Awardees, Principal Katy Prebble announced Mary as the recipient, also identifying criteria considered in selecting her.
“[Mary is] someone who has supported the school as an alumna parent, Board member, and generous donor, but most importantly, as a friend,” said President Prebble. “She has given every talent she has to Holy Cross while at the same time being a leader in her work with the Catholic Coalition for Special Education. [She] is a role-model and an inspiration for her commitment to serving young people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.”
At first, surprised at being selected, Mary soon came to appreciate the recognition as a reflection of how much the inclusion of students with disabilities has enriched Holy Cross.
“My love for and appreciation of [Holy Cross] could match anyone’s,” said Mary. “A while back I served on the Academy’s School Life Committee, but nine years ago, I truly became a believer.”
According to Mary, in 2013, she and her husband, Steve, sought a high school for their then eighth-grade daughter, Theresa, and shadowed five Catholic Schools. Only Holy Cross was willing to accommodate Theresa’s learning needs.
“[Holy Cross was] open to learning what they didn’t know,” said Mary, “willing to partner with Catholic Coalition for Special Education (CCSE), and determined to create a model program.”
“I knew that this could not just be for our daughter,” said Mary. “I believe that God had placed our family there at that time with some gifts that were meant for the community.”
Mary Brogan, formerly on the Board of St. Joseph’s House in Rockville, Md., and Vice President of CCSE, currently serves as the liaison to the CCSE Parent Representatives and to the Professional Advisory Board. She has taught Special Ed in both Fairfax and Montgomery Counties and holds a B.A. from Boston College and an M.Ed. in Special Education from the University of Maryland. Parents of six children, Mary and her husband attend St. John the Evangelist Parish in Silver Spring, Md.
According to President Prebble, Mary is characteristic of the award’s namesake: Sister Madeleva’s story reveals the ingenuity, persistence, and vision of a pioneering nun. At a time when only a few women earned college degrees, Sister Madeleva earned her Ph. D at Berkley in 1925. She was a poet, a farmer, a nun, and a university president. Sister Madeleva was truly an Empowered Woman.
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Supporting
A MESSAGE FROM THE ACADEMY
Over the past few years, Holy Cross’ #EmpoweredGirls campaign has sought the partnership and support of school leaders to transform the campus and bring our programs to an even higher level of performance. The campaign seeks funding to support two critical components:
• Construction of a new Athletic and Wellness center
• Creation of a completely accessible campus for those with limited mobility
We are happy to share, as of August 2023, we have nearly completed the accessibility component. External and internal ramps have been installed at the school building’s main entrance and leading to its main hall in order to prioritize immediate access needs. A lift has also been installed to allow access to the lower-level Tech Center.
Meanwhile, plans for construction of the new Athletic and Wellness Center continue to progress. Its creation is possible through a unique partnership of the Academy of the Holy Cross with #EmpoweredGirls campaign donors, the Sisters of the Holy Cross and local developers—a partnership that ensures the school the funds and footprint to build the muchneeded new facility. Soon to be standing at the back end of the campus, adjacent to the current gym and Ridgway Field, the new facility will include a regulation-sized gym with bleacher seating for over 400, a health and fitness center, locker rooms, a training room and a concession stand. Thanks to the generosity of one campaign benefactor, the new center will even have an outdoor bocce court!
Demonstrating leadership support of the effort, the Sisters of the Holy Cross have stepped up to commit $1.0 million to the campaign and construction of the center. This inspiring philanthropy represents the largest single gift the school has ever received and has pushed the campaign total to nearly $5.0 million.
#EmpoweredGirls is now the largest and most successful campaign in our school’s history – although we are not quite there yet! To put a shovel in the ground and complete the complex financial model our new facility requires, we must secure an additional $1.5 million in gifts and pledges over the course of the next school year. To do so, we’ll continue to reach out to alumnae and families, share the story of #EmpoweredGirls, and seek their partnership in advancing our future.
Our sincerest thanks goes out to the Sisters and to those who have joined them in saying, “Yes!” to our request for support. For more information or to make a gift or pledge to #EmpoweredGirls, please reach out to Cassandra Hoye, Director of Advancement, at 301-962-1203. We are almost there, and we need and value your partnership!
FROM THE DIRECTOR OF ADVANCEMENT
Dear Holy Cross Families,
When I came to the Academy for my first day, I was very nervous. I was early and eager to learn more about this school. Once I walked in the door, however, I was greeted by the happy faces of the students, making their way to class. It was the LOTAs’ smiles and speaking with some of them that put me at ease. By the end of the day, I knew this school was where I was meant to be.
My first month was spent preparing for the Tartan Challenge and after many emails, videos and social media posts, YOU, our supporters, obliterated the $75,000 goal that had been set and donated $101,586 from 245 benefactors.
Overall, The Academy of the Holy Cross raised nearly $580,000 in the 2022-2023 fiscal year for the Holy Cross Fund. This Fund is the cornerstone of philanthropy at our school. By donating, you provide critical support, augmenting faculty salaries and benefits, financial aid programs, and curriculum development; you help secure the latest technology, the best sports equipment, top of the line materials for our STEM programs and it serves as an expression of thanks, appreciation, and confidence in our faculty and staff for all that they do to enrich the lives of our students.
Thank you to everyone who has donated and been supportive throughout the year. Our alumnae, students, faculty, staff, parents and friends really came together, strengthening this community I am now proud to be a part of.
Visit www.academyoftheholycross.org/giving to support our school and, if you’re interested in a more lasting donation, contact me at 301-962-1203 or choye@academyoftheholycross.org to discuss more philanthropic options.
Spes Unica,
Cassandra Hoye Director of Advancement
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We are incredibly grateful for the charitable participation to support The Academy of the Holy Cross at our Wild West Gala 2023 - Boots and Bling. The generosity and commitment of those who participated have made a tremendous difference and contributed to the success of our event which generated a net total of $120,423.
Our school was beautifully decorated, giving the feeling of having stepping into a saloon in the Old West. The evening began with an array of silent auction items stunningly displayed in our cafeteria. The live auction items were carefully arranged in the entry hallway, while in the lobby, attendees could purchase the Rodeo Round-up Wingspan tickets and the 50/50 raffle tickets, which provided access to the V.I.P. March Madness - Sully’s Saloon tent in the courtyard. During the event, there was a video in which Holy Cross students encouraged the enthusiasm of those attending to generously raise their paddle for the student financial aid fund.
The 50/50 raffle came to a total of $6,850, making the winner, Tonya Villafana, $3,425 richer. Mrs. Villafana gifted the entire amount of her winnings back to Holy Cross, making applause erupt from everyone at the event.
From the food to the drinks, the music, the line dancing, and the bidding this was a night no one will forget, filled with fun and joy for everyone.
The 2023 Sister Grace Shonk Tribute Award was bestowed on two recipients this year. The award goes to the faculty or staff member with a faith-filled spirit, who promotes the school’s mission in his or her area with a sense of joy and peace of heart. Hats Off to Emily Montgomery and Kristen Pawlowski.
We couldn’t have held this event without the help of our committee, which included Olayinka Alexander, Ann Scaletti Dundee, Anna Stewart and Kelly Stone, led by three talented co-chairs Ebony Broadwater, Josie Militello, Colleen Schrier.
Thank you for helping us positively impact our community and youth. We appreciate you and look forward to continued success in 2024. Please join us on March 9th for the 2024 Benefit Auction and Gala.
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2022 HOLY CROSS GOLF CLASSIC
Fifty-seven golfers cleated-up and took to the golf course of Bretton Woods Recreation Center in Germantown, Md., to support the Holy Cross Fund on a sunny, blue-skyed day in October 2022.
In the end, the winning team dawned the coveted purple blazers. That honor was bestowed upon Team ShearWater, consisting of Michael Hite, Adam Brand, Ben Treacy and Martin Price. Meanwhile, parents, alumnae and sponsor teams enjoyed a full day of golf, games, refreshments, and prizes.
To everyone who volunteered and sponsored the tournament: Your time and support was received—and is remembered— with immense gratitude.
WHY WE GIVE
“The Academy of the Holy Cross has given our daughter, Katie, a place to be her best self! She has grown personally and academically. She is confident in who she is! The Moreau Options Program is truly a shining example of inclusion, done amazingly well! We are forever grateful to the Academy of the Holy Cross for giving our daughter a faith-based school to go to, where she loves learning and is able to participate in so many extracurricular activities. She is making forever friends, too, and lifetime memories! We love you, AHC!”
Please send your current information to the Alumnae Office at alumnae@academyoftheholycross.org and stay informed about your Alma Mater!
JANIE AND ANTHONY WORCH (Parents of Katie Worch ’25)
ALUMNAE NEWS
“JANIE” TO HER FRIENDS
Long before Jayne Harper Plank ’50 was the United States Department of State Director of Intergovernmental Affairs or the first woman elected Mayor of Kensington, Md., before she was a teacher or a crypt linguist, she was “Janie” Francis Harper, “Irish beauty,” and “a member of almost everything” to her Holy Cross friends.
With her diploma in-hand, Janie exited Our Lady of Sorrows as one of 72 members of the Academy’s 74th graduating class to the raised voices of the glee club and into a world where Nat King Cole’s “Mona Lisa” was sounding from jukeboxes across the country. However, unlike the song’s namesake, she brought her dreams, as well as those of others, to life—her characteristic desire to do “almost everything” continued.
Earning her Bachelor’s Degree from George Washington University, she worked for the National Security Agency, while continuing graduate work in Middle East Studies at Georgetown University. Later, she moved with husband, Bill Plank, first to Indiana, and then to Iran and Pakistan, before returning to Kensington to raise her family of five sons and begin her lifelong commitment to public service.
Among her many leadership positions, she was the first woman elected to the Board of Directors, President of the Maryland Municipal League and nominee to the Board of Directors of the National League of Cities.
Even in achieving global recognition, as her membership in the Sovereign Military Order of Malta would suggest, she never lost sight of the importance of giving back. This included giving to Holy Cross. For students of the Academy, Plank created a Scholarship in the name of her mother, Lillian Kengla Harper Audette ’21, crediting the Academy with the lesson applied in creating the scholarship.
“[At Holy Cross, I] learned that self-responsibility and love of God, family and country propel you to expand your vision to areas of service,” said Jayne. “When given opportunities, we have the responsibility to respond and give back to those who guided us along the way to the best of our ability.”
The scholarship has been awarded to numerous students to date. Jayne not only funded the education of Holy Cross students, but enjoyed hearing from them. In 2020, recipient Jessica Olcott ’24, wrote to Jayne in thanks and revealed then-future plans that, like Jayne’s, weren’t limited to a single profession.
“Saying thank you does not begin to express how grateful I am,” said Olcott. “[…]I would love to be a journalist or a nurse. I absolutely love medicine, as well as helping people.”
Beyond her Feb. 23, 2023, passing, beyond generations, backgrounds and interests, Janie’s words still resonate: “There is no such thing as strangers, only friends we have not yet met.”
Jayne Harper Plank at Holy Cross alumnae event.
Jayne Harper Plank ’50–then Jayne Francis Harper–in her 1950 Holy Cross graduation portrait, published May 20, 1950, in school newspaper The Gleaner.
Jayne Harper Plank’s former gym uniform–the donation, a reminder of Jayne’s legacy of supporting Holy Cross. Located in Holy Cross heritage case.
Lillian Kengla Harper Audette ’21 graduation portrait, located in Holy Cross heritage case.
ALUMNAE SHARE PROFESSIONAL PATHS DURING CAREER DAY
Holy Cross welcomed 20 alumnae from the classes of 1989 through 2015 as Career Day speakers on February 24, 2023. Keynote Speaker Dr. Johanna Kaplan ’89 spoke about her career as a licensed clinical psychologist and director of the Washington Anxiety Center of Capitol Hill. Freshmen and sophomores attended a panel discussion. Meanwhile, juniors and seniors each attended two sessions, listening to alumnae explain their career paths in medicine, finance, marine science, law, acting, PR and marketing, and social work and more. Career Day is coordinated by Holy Cross’ College Counseling and Alumnae Affairs offices.
ALUMNAE NEWS
ACADEMY NAMES SEVEN
2023 DISTINGUISHED ALUMNAE AND ATHLETIC HALL OF FAMERS
The Academy of the Holy Cross named five Distinguished Alumnae awardees and two Athletic Hall of Fame alumnae inductees on May 19, 2023, at the annual Distinguished Alumnae Awards presentation and Athletic Hall of Fame Induction ceremony.
Awardees were recognized for having lived the Holy Cross mission of courage, compassion and scholarship in their personal lives and careers.
Karen Campbell Grisez ’73 has focused on working with immigrants as a lawyer for more than 25 years. Integrating foreign language skills first-developed at Holy Cross with her interest in fundamental human rights, her legal work specializes in asylum, deportation defense, naturalization and other immigration matters in both New York and Washington, D.C. In support of these efforts, her leadership roles have included: Chair of the American Bar Association (ABA) Commission on immigration and member of the national Pro Bono Committee of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) and AILA DC Chapter. In her remarks, Karen said that she had benefited from Holy Cross’ investment in her: “[Holy Cross] broadened my world… and moved me into being a citizen of the world.”
Sharon Fairley ’78 has taught law at the University of Chicago Law School as a Professor from Practice since 2015. Deeply focused on issues related to policing and police accountability, she was appointed Chief Administrator of Chicago’s Independent Police Review Authority. There, she implemented a series of reforms to enhance the independence and integrity of police misconduct investigations. She also inaugurated Chicago’s Civilian Office of Police Accountability. Sharon’s continued interest in police accountability—especially, civilian oversight of law enforcement—is reflected in her academic research and writing, and consulting practice. According to Sharon, Holy Cross launched her into her life and career. Encouraged to pursue engineering in college by a Holy Cross math teacher, as a Princeton student, she thrived because of her high school foundation. “Holy Cross gave me an intellectual curiosity and love of learning,” she said.
Maria Leonard Olsen ’81 is a mother, civil litigation attorney, counselor, journalist, podcast host, public speaker and author of multiple books. Maria served as a political appointee in the Clinton Administration’s Justice Department and has served on the boards of multiple organizations. Her passion for empowering women was reflected in her remarks: “Holy Cross taught me that I’m smart, I’m capable, and I have a voice—and that is the importance of an all-female education in our society today.” According to Maria, “every person and situation has a capacity to teach me something if I’m open to the lesson, and that is something I gained here at Holy Cross.” She also shared that her best friends today are the ones she met at Holy Cross: “They are the friends I made the day I walked in here and have never left my side.”
Danielle Mahaney Ballantine ’86, a dedicated Holy Cross staff member for 28 years, was honored at the event shortly before her June 2023 retirement. Whether through print or digital publications, social media or the school website, she supported every Holy Cross department to create a consistent and cohesive message. Involved in the life of the school community, through the years, Danielle’s roles included: homeroom advisor, Senior Project mentor, Tartan Writers and Prism club moderator, Kairos senior retreat leader and Alumnae Business Network staff liaison. Of Holy Cross, Danielle said, “Here was laid the foundation to do whatever I dreamed and know that I was prepared to do it.” She also said that Holy Cross is a community of belonging that continues to impart the charism of the Sisters of the Holy Cross on the next generation. Currently volunteering with the Boy Scouts of America, locally and nationally, Danielle continues that Holy Cross-taught legacy with the organization’s youths.
Gina Ford ’03 is a communications and public relations specialist with more than 15 years of experience in her profession. Currently serving as Director of Communications for Angela Alsobrooks for U.S. Senate, Gina was previously Director of Communications for Prince George’s County, Office of County Executive, and served as Public Information Officer in the State’s Attorney’s Office for the county. Beginning her career in 2008 as a Peoria, Illinois-based television news reporter and anchor, she covered crime and politics. At the age of 25, she returned to her college alma mater to teach broadcast journalism. She later worked as a freelance reporter and anchor for WLNS 6 News, while working as a faculty member and pursuing her master’s degree. Having even been responsible for external communications for the executive branch, Gina credited Holy Cross for giving her the courage to pursue the opportunities that led to her career: “Courage is what I learned here in these halls. It takes courage to trust that things will work out.”
Athletic Hall of Fame inductees were recognized for demonstrating athletic ability, sportsmanship, Tartan character, leadership and contributions to their teams.
Lanay Montgomery ’12 was a standout basketball player at Holy Cross, earning Washington Catholic Athletic Conference (WCAC) All-Conference, All-Met and MVP accolades. Following a high school injury, she overcame a painful recovery to play college-level basketball at West Virginia University. Selected 30th overall by the Seattle Storm in the 2017 WNBA draft, she played professionally for one season. Since then, Lanay has served as a contract watch analyst with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and as an activity therapist with the State of Maryland prison system. According to Lanay, basketball—and especially her foundational Holy Cross experience in the sport—changed her life and set her career in motion.
Taylor Gallart ’13 played varsity volleyball all of her four years at Holy Cross. She earned WCAC AllConference First Team and MVP. Signing to play Division I volleyball for University of Central Florida, she received a full athletic scholarship and majored in Human Communication. After graduation, she began a career in retail management at Nordstrom, where she was promoted in management roles four times in four years. Canadian luxury brand Aritzia then recruited her to manage and open their Tyson’s Corner location which opened in December 2021. Crediting her success to Holy Cross Coach Dave Geiser, Taylor said she learned leadership, the significance of personal connections and goalsetting at Holy Cross, and at the school, developed a community of friends she still has today.
ALUMNAE NEWS ALUMNAE REMEMBERED AT MEMORIAL MASS
Alumnae, family members and friends gathered at Holy Cross for Holy Cross’ annual Alumnae Memorial Mass on Sunday, Feb. 12, 2023. Student members of the school’s Madrigal Singers ensemble, directed by the then-Department of Performing Arts chair, Laura Van Duzer, led the assembly in song. Father Christian Wagner, S.J., presided over the liturgy and, in his homily, spoke about how Holy Cross links alumnae and their families together. Special Events and Alumnae Affairs
Associate Kathleen Warner Bula ’79 read the names of the 31 alumnae, four faculty and staff and 48 family members who had died in the previous year, while classmates, family members and friends brought roses to the altar in memory of the deceased. Alma Mater’s resounding “…Hail from thy daughters, Holy Cross” punctuated the liturgy’s closing, and kicked-off a post-service reception.
Cookies with Santa Cookies with Santa
Cookies with Santa returned indoors on December 11, 2022. Participating children enjoyed arts and crafts, hot chocolate and gingerbread cookies, in addition to the main, jolly attraction. Holy Cross extends a big thank you, to all the event’s volunteers, including Santa Claus himself, Terry Kernan, and Mrs. Claus, Mary Susan Warner Kernan ’82. Likewise, a special thanks goes out to photographer George Allan, father of Emma Allan ’23, for donating his professional photography services to Cookies with Santa for the last three consecutive years.
HOLY CROSS CELEBRATES CLASS OF ‘73
50TH ANNIVERSARY
The Class of 1973 members were special guests of The Academy of the Holy Cross at an on-campus 50th anniversary luncheon on June 5, 2023.
Alumnae in attendance--all local residents--included: Diane Keany Andrews, Nancy Cox Bloom, Nora Quinn Dutton, Mary Louise Piczak Gierula, Theresa Ryan Graves, Karen Grisez, Mary Stone and Ann Leonard Unger. They enjoyed reminiscing about their time as students and hearing about the presentday Academy from President Katy Prebble. At the luncheon, President Prebble spoke about the accomplishments of the Class of 2023—freshmen in 2020, when the pandemic hit. She also shared the plan for the future construction of an athletic and wellness center on campus.
After the luncheon and a group photo, members of the group traveled to the Basilica of the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception to walk as honored guests in the 2023 graduation.
2023 UPTON STREET REUNION
Holy Cross classes of 1954 through 1959 celebrated the Academy’s annual Upton Street Reunion on April 12, 2023. Participating alumnae graduated from the Academy’s campus on Upton Street in Northwest Washington, D.C.
The event included a social hour, followed by Mass in the Holy Cross Theatre, presided by Msgr. John Enzler—a member of the Holy Cross family, since his alumnae sisters’ school days. Following Mass and group photos, guests enjoyed a special luncheon. There, President Katy Prebble shared the latest plans about the new Athletic and Wellness Center.
The day concluded with reminiscing about high school and catching up on current life events.
The Academy of the Holy Cross was located at its Upton Street address from 1910 to 1959—the Class of 1959, its last graduating class. The school’s Kensington location first opened to the Class of 1960 as freshmen in 1956.
ALUMNAE GATHER IN NYC
Holy Cross hosted a reception for alumnae in New York City on Jan. 31, 2023, at Manhattan-based Rosie O’Grady’s Pub. Alumnae enjoyed catching up with one another, as well as hearing from President Katy Prebble and Principal John Sullivan about the Academy’s current events and future plans.
ALUMNAE NEWS CLASS NOTES
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1945
Teresa Hawkins Peterson ’66 donated this photo of her mother’s 1933 graduation class from The Academy of the Holy Cross. Ms. Peterson’s mother, Esther Miller Hawkins Ginnetti, is the first student in the topleft row. Ms. Ginnetti passed away on May 30, 2008.
1954
Mary Catharine Winter said: “I have recently relocated from my home of the past 27 years in Kenmore, WA (near Seattle). I am now living at the Charlestown Retirement Community in Catonsville, Md. While I miss the beautiful Pacific Northwest and all my dear
friends there, it is nice to return to Maryland, where my roots are. I am also now near many family members and can see them without having to fly 3,000 miles!”
Anna Marie Bovill Lea turned 88 on June 16, 2023. Anna said she is in rather good health, but her joint pain is increasing. However, she is still mowing her lawn and pulling weeds. Anna keeps binoculars handy, so she can see the birds that come into her yard or fly by. The included photo was taken on November 24, 2022.
1958
Ann Bray Wagner received a nursing degree from University of Virginia
after attending Holy Cross. She then worked at Georgetown Hospital, later attending Boston University and received a master’s and post master’s in nursing. Returning to the metropolitan area, she served for 16 years as Director of Health Services at a Silver Spring, Md.-based residential treatment facility for people with developmental and intellectual disabilities. Meanwhile, she attended George Mason University’s Antonin Scalia Law School and adopted her first child—then, 13 months old. At her December 2022 wedding, her son walked her down the aisle, her daughter served as Maid of Honor, the six combined granddaughters of her and her new husband, Les,
served as bridesmaids and Les’ grandson was the ring bearer. “Everyone in our immediate families had an active role in the Nuptial Mass celebration,” said Ann.
1959
Jean Gleason White said: “I am again President of the American News Women’s Club (ANWC). A fourth-generation native Washingtonian, Jean graduated from Blessed Sacrament, Holy Cross, Dunbarton College on Upton Street, as well as American University and Georgetown University for graduate studies. She retired from the U.S. Department of State under Secretary Madeleine Albright.”
Graduation class of 1933.
Anna Marie Bovill Lea ’54.
ANWC President Jean Gleason White ’59 and former President, Mary Catherine Andrews.
55TH ANNIVERSARY REUNION LUNCHEON FOR THE CLASS OF 1967
1960
Members of Holy Cross’ Class of 1967 celebrated their 55th anniversary with an on-campus reunion on September 10, 2022. The group of approximately 35 attendees—arriving from as far away as Minnesota— enjoyed lots of food with a Prosecco toast.
Class of 1960 mini reunion. Front row (L-R) Pat Medlar Webster, Kathleen DeBroske Myers, Sherry Morrison Wilbert, Sandy Hersberger Potier; Back row (L-R) Sandy Wolfe Satterfield, Carroll Duffy Burrows, Christine Landenburger Adams, Marty Leeney McDonald, Elisabeth Sipkov Pineros, Paula Goettelmann, Carol Heinlein Soo, Jeanne Trossevin Connor, Pat Davis, Pam Dillon, Connie Haile Maas, Harriet Flott Smiley, Brenda Roddy Donofrio and Elena Bechtold Peterson.
The Class of 1960 held a mini reunion in August 2022, which took place in Bay Ridge, Md.
1964
Margaret Steele reported: “I took my first trip in three years this past summer, 2022. My destination was the German town of Oberammergau to attend the Passion Play on July 19. It was so worth it—the weather, my tour group, the beauty of Bavaria, Munich and Salzburg and, of course, the play itself. Performances of the play began in the mid-17th Century, and it’s still going after 400 years. To this day, the promise made to God to put on a Passion Play once every 10 years— in exchange for Him sparing the town from the plague—has been honored by the townspeople, and the protection granted. Not one person has died of the plague. The May 14, 2023-begun season runs through October 2—one hundred dates in all. You still have time. If not, it begins again in 2030.”
1966
Maureen Flatley is part of a team bringing together a group of stakeholders, including the Ukrainian Ambassador, Members of Congress, outside groups and other interested parties for a briefing on the condition of the children and plans to retrieve them. The event is expected to take place in the Capitol Complex. We will keep you updated on their progress! (Maureen is in the center of the photo with the yellow scarf.)
1970
The “Class of ’70 Rosary Girls” continues to be active! Six of the classmates gathered in person for a luncheon in September 2022, when Ann Marie Harrigan O’Lone visited from Texas. She also traveled to Gettysburg to visit Linda Ingalls. In December 2022, the group celebrated its second year of virtually praying the rosary together. Ten members of the group also celebrated in January 2023 with a special luncheon, which included a special surprise phone call from Mary Beth Widmayer McDonald, in Vero Beach, Fla. Mary Beth inspired the initial formation of the “Rosary Girls.”
ALUMNAE NEWS
Class of ’70 Friends Celebrate 70! The “Platinum Posse” (Class of ’70 Holy Cross and Regina girlfriends) rallied for a few days in Dewey Beach, Del., for members to celebrate their 70th birthdays. They also got together one night with fellow alums Candee Campbell, Carol duFief, and Janet Depenbrock Weschler. It was a blast!
Kate Dolan ’70 is retired from the U.S. government and has her own company, Dolan & Taylor Associates, in Garrett Park, Md. She represents the American National Standards Institute/ National Information Standards Organization regarding TC 46, which manages Information and Documentation Standards. Standards are developed and maintained by volunteers and Kate is one of those volunteers. At the May 2023 TC 46 Plenary Meeting in Paris, Kate was recognized by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) for her work on ISO 3166 - Country Codes. ISO 3166
Country Codes are used around the world for many activities including travel documents, logistics, postal services, health services and the Internet. Most people know little about standards, but standards make sure your shoes fit, the tires on your car work, pipes match, clocks work and makeup does not harm users. Here is the Resolution as passed (Resolution 2023/19):
Recognition of Kate Dolan’s Service as Chair of ISO/TC 46/MA ISO/TC 46 expresses its appreciation to Kate Dolan for her excellent leadership of ISO/TC 46/MA and dedication to the work of country codes over the past eight years.
Marie Davis, Carol duFief, Jan Tegler Burns and Dee Carl Metz treated Kathleen Warner Bula ’79 to a special “very lavender” lunch at Coastal Flats in Gaithersburg, Md., in March 2023, as special thanks for everything she’s done for the Class of 1970, including helping with two reunions (one in-person and one virtual).
CLASS OF 1972 CELEBRATE 50TH REUNION WITH BRUNCH & TOUR
The Holy Cross Class of 1972 held an on-campus brunch and tour on Oct. 9, 2022, reuniting for their 50th anniversary. Fourteen ladies, plus spouses and family members, had a wonderful morning brunching with mimosas and desserts, thanks to Caryn Plunkett McIntyre’s “Mac’s Catering.”
Class of 1970 “The Platinum Posse” (L-R) Jodi Beer Blanchard, Kathy Kellinger Phiel, Sue Skelly Amy (Regina), Jan Tegler Burns, Reeny McArdle Shanko (Regina), Marie Davis, Deedee Newman, Mary Kaye Nilan Kocerhan, and Maureen Casey Dunn. (Not pictured: Terry Jason Kiss and Tricia O’Connell Sadler.)
“Class of ’70 Rosary Girls” January 2023 Front row (L-R) Mary-Rose Szoka, Marie Davis, Carol duFief, Dee Carl Metz; Back row (L-R) Kathy McMahon Currie, Maureen Casey Dunn, Peggy Flynn Pope, Jan Tegler Burns, Joan Anselmo Hobbs and Cindy Masucci Kratz.
Mary Beth Widmayer McDonald ’70
“Kathleen led the class through a class reunion with skill, finesse and kindness that endeared her to us… After almost three years of interacting with Kathleen, she also became a friend…,” the group agreed. They wished her well in future career moves.
1973
Karen Campbell Grisez has been practicing law for more than 30 years and manages a pro bono program at a large law firm in Washington, D.C. She ensures the lawyers in the firm provide at least 50 hours of annual pro bono
work in nonprofit-set up, obtaining tax exempt status or individual representation in traditional poverty law matters, including: family, landlord/tenant, social security disability, and criminal postconviction work and more. Primarily concentrated on immigration—especially asylum and deportation defense—she’s been most recently representing the International Association of Women Judges in trying to get women judges in Afghanistan evacuated and resettled in safe countries.
1977
Donna Reese was selected by her Holy Cross faculty/ staff peers to be the 2022 recipient of the Archdiocese of Washington Veteran Teacher of the Year Award. Donna has been a member of the Performing Arts faculty since 2002.
Sheila Alexander-Reid was recently appointed Executive Director of PHL Diversity, a division of the Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau, where she oversees efforts to promote Philadelphia as an inclusive, welcoming destination for
CLASS OF 1977 45TH REUNION GATHERING
The 45th class reunion for the Class of 1977 was held on Friday, October 7, 2022 at 6:00 pm at the home of Patty Daley Hodgson in Kensington.
meetings and conventions. Previously, Sheila served as Executive Director of the Mayor’s Office of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Questioning Affairs (MOLGBTQ) in Washington, D.C. She also served as Senior Vice President, Business Development, at BiasSync, a firm that helps organizations more effectively assess and manage unconscious bias in the work environment. Sheila earned certificates in diversity and inclusion from Cornell University and Stanford Graduate School of Business and leadership training from LGBTQ+ Victory Institute.
Sheila Alexander-Reid ’77
Marie Davis ’70, Carol duFief ’70, Jan Tegler Burns ’70, Dee Carl Metz ’70 and Kathleen Warner Bula ’79.
ALUMNAE NEWS
At the 2019 Stanford University LGBTQ Leadership Conference, she presented on the intersectionality of race and gender. Sheila also founded two agencies in which she remains active: Branding4Change, a boutique branding and training agency focused on DEI; and Women in the Life, a social justice non-profit organization that creates safe spaces and social gatherings for lesbians of color. She also spent 32 years with the Washington City Paper, where she served as Director of Strategic Engagement and Development Manager, focusing on sales and marketing. She lives with her partner, Aishah Shahidah Simmons, a documentary filmmaker, writer and Philadelphia native.
1979, 1981, 1982, 1985
A “reunion of friends” from D.C. Catholic schools— including Holy Cross, Holy Child, Visitation, Immaculata, Good Counsel, Gonzaga, St. John’s, Georgetown Prep and Archbishop Carroll— gathered on October 29, 2022, at the Woman’s Club of Bethesda.
1981
Maria Leonard Olsen, Anne Trevisan Kane, Patsy O’Brien Cahill, Johnine O’Brien Meehan, Cindy Sellers O’Brien and Roseanna Josoef Haley planned a catamaran trip around the British Virgin Islands to celebrate their 60th birthdays in August 2022!
Maria Leonard Olsen hosted Kayla Conroy ’21 and Tenna Joseph ’22 as Senior Project interns at her law office. Having enjoyed sponsoring Holy Cross students for their Senior Projects for the past two years, she encourages other alumnae to consider sponsorship, as well. Maria’s podcast, “Becoming Your Best Version,” was recently chosen as a Top 20 Podcast for Midlife Women. An author of five books, Maria is working on one for Brandeis University Press about the unintended legal consequences of consumer DNA testing. More information about Maria is available at www. MariaLeonardOlsen.com.
Maria’s son, Chris Olsen, who performed in several summer stock theater productions at Holy Cross, was voted TikTok’s Sexiest Man by People Magazine in 2020. He has 9.6 million TikTok followers and appears in television shows and movies, as well
as at award shows, like the Oscars, Cannes Film Festival and the People’s Choice Awards. Chris can be found in Megan Trainor’s latest music video and in the December 2022 edition of Rolling Stone magazine.
Cindy Sellers Kurak’s twin daughters, Nellie and Bridget O’Brien, are juniors at the University of Alabama. The Innisfree Irish Pub in Tuscaloosa, near the university, now proudly displays the Holy Cross’ “AHC’’ flag, thanks to Cindy’s work with owner Tripp Rogers, a graduate of Georgetown Prep. The pub routinely features reminders of the D.C.-MarylandVirginia area, including school flags from local private schools.
Front row (L-R) Patty Davitt Long ’82, Therese Mullaney Draddy ’81, Patsy O’Brien Cahill ’81, Sue McDonough Peterson ’81, Rosemary Stifter Hadley ’81, Karen Havens Gunn ’81, Susan Dunne Lozupone ’85, and Trazy Kane Sood ’81; Back row (L-R) Mary Ellen Daly Overend ’81, Dolores Murphy Maloney ’82, Winnie Walsh Keon ’81, Anne Trevisan Kane ’81, Cindy Sellers Kurak ’81 and Mary Beth McCarthy O’Boyle ’79.
Maria Olsen ’81 - Podcast Logo
Cindy Sellers Kurak ’81
Happy 60th Birthday, Class of ’81!
1988
Thirteen ladies from the Class of 1988 enjoyed Margaritaville in Orlando, Fla., in February 2023 to celebrate their 35-year reunion. They said: “We plan to make it an annual girl’s trip!”
1992
Suzee Kujawa said, she and her husband, Mitch Robert, are closing the Marylandbased law firm they have managed together for almost two decades. They said, they are relocating to New England, “where, the air is cooler, the snow is deeper, and the living is freer.”
1994
Stephanie Bonhomme currently serves as Ethics Counselor to the Office of the Vice President of the United States. Stephanie was named Ethics Branch Chief for the National
Institute for Child Health and Development in 2022. Prior to this role, she served as Regional Ethics Counsel for the Southeast Region of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
1996
Dr. Shinta Herwantoro Hernandez has been recognized by Women We Admire as one of the Top 50 Women Leaders of Maryland for 2022. Shinta is the founding dean of the Virtual Campus at Montgomery College. She was previously the Montgomery College (MC) Department Chair of Sociology, Anthropology, and Criminal Justice. During her time at MC, Shinta has advanced work in the social science disciplines, open educational resources and open pedagogy, social justice and equity, inclusive curriculum, faculty professional development, international collaborations, and online education. She also held positions in public policy think tanks, namely the Urban Institute and
Westat. Shinta received her undergraduate degree in psychology from Brandeis University, Master of Public Policy degree in social policy from Georgetown University, and PhD degree in sociology from University of Maryland College Park. She was previously awarded the Montgomery College Outstanding Faculty Award for Excellence in Teaching and Advising for AY 20162017 and the NISOD Excellence Award in 2018.
Several Class of 1996 classmates met at a restaurant in Bethesda for a mini-reunion on July 21, 2022. Adriana Murphy wrote: “We reminisced about the exceptional education we received while at Holy Cross and the fact that as young women, we were empowered to think, to participate, and to lead lives of purpose. Almost 25 years later, we were hatching a plan to start our own school, as there were two teachers, a principal, school nurse, development specialist, and marketing expert all there at the table! We noted how
different our experiences and backgrounds growing up were and how Holy Cross gave us a space to build community, mutual respect, and lifelong friendships. Thank you to all of our teachers who pushed us and encouraged us to push back on them, too. We all remember you and are better, because of it!”
2000
Dominica Groom Williams has been named the head of Head of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) of Truist Financial Corporation where she will be responsible for leading bank-wide strategic inclusion and diversity initiatives. Dominica has held top DEI positions at Guidehouse, Freddie Mac and Marriott International. She’s been recognized as a “Top Influential Leader in Diversity” by the National Association for Minority Companies, a “Rising Star” by HousingWire Magazine and a “Women Worth Watching” by the Profiles in Diversity Journal.
Stephanie Bonhomme, J.D., ’94.
Dr. Shinta Herwantoro Hernandez ’96.
From left to right: Kim Binion Hayden, Beatrice Bonhomme Hyacinthe, Maleka Covington Lawrence, Chrissie Clark Herman, Adriana Murphy, Theresa Santelli
The Class of 2002 held their 20th Anniversary reunion at Caddies on Cordell in Bethesda, Md., on Dec. 3, 2022. Participating alumnae enjoyed catching up and reminiscing about their “glory days.” They held true to the saying: “Once a Holy Cross Girl, Always a Holy Cross Girl.”
Dominica, a member of the Holy Cross Board of Trustees, is a 2017 Distinguished Alumnae Award recipient and was the 2019 Career Day keynote speaker.
Johnson Howard, Laurice Robles Branham, Julie Hagan Ward and Christina Kane.
2003
Katie Perry is Senior Manager of the Paranoids Data Enablement & Analytics team at Yahoo. The Paranoids are responsible for protecting Yahoo’s more than one billion users around the world, as well as the company’s employees and systems. Her 15-year career in cyber security spans Fortune 500 companies and the public sector. Katie holds
a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from Susquehanna University, a Master of Science in Computer Science from Towson University and is a Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP). Katie married Elliott Frye at St. Theresa Church in Ashburn, Va., on November 7, 2020. “No kids yet :),” Katie said.
2004
Stephanie Menzen McBurnett attended the U.S. Naval Academy after graduating from Holy Cross. She graduated in 2008, became a Surface Warfare
Officer and served six years, splitting her time between San Diego and Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. After the Navy, she earned another bachelor’s degree—this time, in nutrition from the University of Alabama— and became a registered dietitian. She is now the nutrition educator for the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, a non-profit organization in Washington, D.C., dedicated to preventive medicine for chronic diseases through lifestyle changes and plantbased diets. She and her husband, Noah McBurnett, a U.S. submarine officer, have two daughters, Charlotte, 5, and Eleanor, 7.
Dominica Groom Williams ’00.
Katie Perry ’03.
Class of 2002 Reunion: Erin McCarthy De Falco, Niki Lawn Kelly, Jackie Williams, Natalie Marston, Stephanie Liberatore, Katie McBrien Leachman, Trish Hathway Montesinos, Barbara Gutierrez Smith, Erin Mulcare, Amsley Pietranton, Meghan Smith Sylvester, Jessica Wright Mansour, Kara Karwoski, Katie Johnson Howard, Laurice Robles Branham, Julie Hagan Ward and Christina Kane.
Joanna Gonzales, LCDR, is currently assigned to Naval Special Forces Group EIGHT in Virginia Beach, Va., as the senior Staff Judge Advocate for the command, and recently was honored with the Major General William Garrison Award during the U.S. STRATCOM Advanced Operational Law Conference.
2007
Joanna Martinez married Tyler Smith on Saturday, October 15, 2022, at Columbia Country Club. The couple lives in Edgewater, Md. Joanna works in Bethesda, Md., in Marriott Headquarters’ marketing department. Four of Joanna’s six bridesmaids are alumnae: Sallie Kimmitt Weir, Katie Gallagher, Sheila O’Neill Johnson, and Marion Dvorak.
Joanna Gonzales ’04.
2008
Kate Galloucis married Max Bryan of Indianapolis on October 16, 2021. The wedding ceremony was at the St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Jacksonville Beach, FL. Monsignor Bartholomew Smith of Silver Spring, Md., presided. The reception was held at the Lodge & Club Ponte Vedra in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL. More than 100 guests attended, including many Maryland friends and several Holy Cross alumnae. The Bryan’s currently live in Austin, Texas. “Go Tartans!”
2009
Eleni Stamoulis ‘09 and Cynthia Alfaro ‘12 unexpectedly encountered each other while waiting in line at their University
Joanna Martinez Smith ’07 wedding: Back row (L-R) Katie Lawless Dougherty ’74, Lenore Reilly Martinez ’76, Joanna Martinez Smith ’07, Marion Dvorak ’07, Mary Catherine Reilly Desrosiers ’81; Front row (L-R) Sally Kimmitt Weir ’07, Katie Gallagher ’07, Sheila O’Neill Johnson ’07 and Jeannine Reilly ’86.
of Baltimore graduation. Quickly, they discovered they’d attended Holy Cross at the same time, but in different classes (Cynthia was a senior when Eleni was a freshman). On May 24, 2023, both received graduate degrees--Eleni with a Master of Fine Art in Integrated Design and Cynthia with a Master of Arts in Integrated Design.
Cori Anne Sabaté Russell and her husband have launched a veteran-owned small batch coffee roasting business, Fortitude Coffee Company. According to Cori Anne, “[the business is] the culmination of a lot of dreaming, tons of research, some trial and error and finally the hard work, dedication and FORTITUDE to succeed. The company gives great attention to detail when selecting green beans, roasting them to perfection and helping teach
Kate Galloucis Bryan ’08 wedding, October 16, 2021
you the most delicious way to serve up the perfect cup.” Find out more at https:// fortitudecoffeecompany.com
2010
Liz Lively married Nick Dragonette on August 13, 2022. Many alumnae attended the wedding reception.
Kelly Mitchell and Pandora Wilson ’12 officiated a local high school game on January 13, 2023. Kelly now officiates D1-D3 NCAA Women’s Basketball and Pandora is an up and coming official. The two agreed: “It was awesome to get back on the court together but in a different way.”
Cynthia Alfaro ’12 graduated with a Master of Art in Integrated Design.
Eleni Stamoulis ’09, graduated with a Master of Fine Art in Integrated Design.
LCDR
Cori Anne Sabate’ Russell ’09 and her husband
(L-R) Patty Davis Gallagher ’75, Veronica Lively Tallamy ’00, Ann Castiglia Worch ’75, Bridget Nalls Conley ’98, Leslie Davis Blackwell ’76, Sharon Wharton Wiley ’75, Michelle Roge Sullivan ’76, Cathie Rutland Lively ’75, Theresa Kelly Barto ’77, Molly Williams ’10, Lauren Fookes ’10, Kate Lively ’98, Sheila Shea Williams ’76, Carolina Mendez ’10, Katie Slater ’10, Kerry Dawson Rupp ’10, Emily Fay ’10, Logan Burke ’09, Maggie Whitcomb ’09, Ellie Rutland ’06 and Christiana Asmar Cox ’07
Kelly Mitchell ’10 and Pandora Wilson ’12.
ALUMNAE NEWS
2011
Laura Hayden married Cade Halle in Asheville, N.C., on Saturday, October 29, 2022. They were surrounded by Holy Cross family and friends, including Laura’s sister, Sharon Hayden Goebeler ’06, her cousins, Jessica Carter Taglieri ’06 and Kara Carter, and friends, Claire McKenna, Melissa Riley, and Kathleen O’Reilly. Former faculty, now close friend and mentor, Kendra Durney ‘03, read her own poem for the couple at the wedding ceremony. According to Laura, being surrounded by the loved ones was a joyous minireunion.
After graduating from Holy Cross, Katie Kilner Morris went on to complete her BSN at The Catholic University of America and her MSN Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner degree at Georgetown University.
Katie’s husband, Anthony, is a Captain in the U.S. Army. They are currently stationed at Fort Campbell, Ky., with their 3-year-old daughter, Ana. The couple is expecting another girl in October. Katie is a part of the My Catholic Doctor Practice as a board-certified WHNP. She sees women from age 13 through adulthood via telehealth for routine and complex gynecological issues.
Leslie Bowie was recently promoted to Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, and is stationed in Quantico, Va.
2012
Naomi Wakiaga ’12 shared photos from her weddings in 2022. A traditional marriage ceremony, called a Hamapesa, was held in Kenya on September 24, 2022. Then she and her husband, Terence Gbassagee II, had their church wedding
ceremony on December 20, 2022, in New Castle, DE.
Pandora Wilson ’12 passed the State of Maryland Nursing Home Administrators State Laws and Regulations exam on March 31, 2023.
2014
Latasha Jeter recently graduated from Liberty University with a Master of Public Health Nutrition.
Jillian Dunston accepted the Assistant Women’s Basketball Coach position at the University of Michigan.
Tiffany Strong graduated in May 2023 from the University of Maryland Baltimore with a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a focus in Clinical Nurse Leadership. She will be working in the operating room at Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore.
2015
Marisa Madaras graduated with honors from the George Washington University Law School in May 2022 with a concentration in Anti-Trust Law. She will join the Norton Rose Fulbright law firm in Washington D.C.
Lilly McQueen received her master’s degree in microbiology and immunology from the Drexel University College of Medicine in the fall of 2022. Lilly’s thesis was entitled, “Cobamide Distribution in Winogradsky Columns Supplemented with Halogenated Environmental Contaminants.” In 2019, Lilly received her undergraduate degree in biochemistry and molecular biology from Ursinus College.
Laura Hayden Halle ’11 and Cade Halle.
Katie Kilner Morris ’11
Leslie Bowie ’11 promoted to Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps.
Tiffany Strong ’14.
Marisa Madaras ’15.
Lilly McQueen ’15.
Naomi Wakiaga Gbassagee ’12 and her husband, Terence Gbassagee II.
Jessica Sims was selected as a Research Assistant in 2022 for one of her former professors and was on the executive board for a club at The University of Baltimore School of Law. As a student attorney working with the Innocence Project Clinic, she also worked a full-time job and took three classes. She said, “I’ve worked so hard and it’s paying off, as seen through the opportunities coming my way and the people I am surrounded by. I am so grateful.” Jessica graduated from the UB School of Law on May 17, 2023. She has accepted a corporate counsel position at a Maryland firm.
Lily Rios-Brady joined the Holy Cross Field Hockey coaching staff as Assistant Coach. Lily was also featured on the Discovery Channel’s 2022 Shark Week. A marine biologist with The Ocean Foundation and a volunteer with Saving the Blue, Lily has experience
traveling to Mexico, where she cage dove with great white sharks. During filming, she made sure to wear her Holy Cross class ring to show appreciation for her alma mater.
2016
Devon Lyons graduated from Towson University last spring with a Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training and passed her Board of Certification in Athletic Training the same spring. In July 2021, Devon started as a graduate assistant athletic trainer at the University of North Alabama, working with the indoor and beach volleyball teams, and is currently pursuing her Master of Science in Sport and Recreation Management. She expects to graduate this coming May. While attending the 2022 National Athletic Training Association Convention this June, Devon ran into Dena Saunders,
former Holy Cross Athletic Director, who had just started as Holy Cross’ athletic trainer in Devon’s senior year at Holy Cross. At the convention, she was selected to present her research titled, “A Buford Complex in a Division I Collegiate Beach Volleyball Athlete: A Type 4 Clinical CASE Study.”
2018
Alex Lauderdale recently graduated from Notre Dame University with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. There, Alex was a member of the Society of Women Engineers. Through her classes and competitions, she worked with various industry sponsors, gaining exposure to different career opportunities in engineering to help her determine her specialty area. Following graduation, Alex will begin working as a Pilot Systems Interface Design Engineer at Lockheed
Martin Aeronautics. While at Notre Dame, Alex was also a member of the Women’s Boxing Club, a philanthropic team that raised money for the Holy Cross Mission in Uganda. Throughout the season, the team prepared for a final tournament, the proceeds of which were all sent to the Holy Cross Mission.
Jade Parchment competed on the Jamaica Senior Women’s Indoor Volleyball Team in the CAZOVA U23 beach tour in Trinidad in August 2022, winning a silver medal after only beginning with the team in June! Jade graduated magna cum laude from North Carolina State University’s business program in May 2022 with a management degree. She begins her career at Accenture Arlington in September 2023.
Jessica Sims ’15.
Lily Rios-Brady ’15.
Jade Parchment ’18.
Dena Saunders and Devon Lyons ’16. Alex Lauderdale ’18.
ALUMNAE NEWS
HOLY CROSS ALUMNA CONTINUES LEADERSHIP TO UNIVERSITY AND BACK
Alumna Molly Sullivan’s ’19 familiar face graced Holy Cross’ 2023 summer camp programming. Molly assisted with group activities and Moreau Camp field trips as well as taught in the Summer Stock’s Musical Theatre.
Graduating with a Musical Theatre degree from Coastal Carolina University in May 2023, by the time Molly donned her cap and gown, she’d already won 2022’s seventh ever Savannah Thompson Humanitarian Service Award. Recognizing area, inspiring difference-makers, Molly received the award for attending university athletic games and supporting all of the sport and spirit teams.
“My favorite part about going to college was attending a lot of the events [and] attending all of the home football games to cheer for Coastal Carolina,” said Molly.
A Holy Cross Moreau Options Program graduate, Molly credits it with preparing her for life, especially her spiritual future and impacting her overall Holy Cross experience.
“It helped me a lot to grow closer to God and to get help from teachers when needed,” said Molly. “My favorite part about being a student at Holy Cross was attending Kairos, going inside the chapel to pray and helping out at all school masses.”
When her Tartan journey began, Molly wanted to become an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion. She achieved this by senior year. Freshman year, she received first Reconciliation. Sophomore year, Molly made her first Communion and junior year, she received Confirmation.
Confident, enthusiastic, driven, Molly indicated she feels really proud of herself for achieving her previous goals and doing all of the things she loves. Yet, for all she’s accomplished, she’s not ready to slow down.
“I am looking to accomplish my goal of living down in Myrtle Beach and getting a job around the area,” said Molly.
2019
Melina Skinner graduated from Catholic University with a Bachelor of Science in Architecture in December 2022.
Yvette Kiptoo graduated from Amherst College in Massachusetts with a Bachelor of Arts in Biochemistry and Biophysics in May 2023.
Leslie Fontaine graduated from Virginia Tech in May 2023 with a Bachelor of Science in Biology.
Morgan Lewis graduated from the University of Alabama with a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice in May 2023.
Antonella Zara graduated from Catholic University in May 2023 with a Bachelor of Science in Social Work.
2020
Catherine Hunt-Neu, a junior in the Integrated Studies Program at Gwynedd Mercy University, was the manager for the university’s cross country team this past school year. As a student in the Moreau Options program at Holy Cross, Catherine was a very active athlete on cross country and track. Catherine also continues to be very dedicated to service and was a member of the “Mercy Movers,” who helped new students move onto campus. She is also the Gwynedd Mercy student government representative for Best Buddies and has been completing an internship. In the summer of 2022, Catherine volunteered locally with Meals on Wheels, St. Camillus Food Pantry and the Creative Arts Center in Silver Spring.
Shelby ’20 and Zoe Wilson ’24 and their parents joined Debbie Brown at Mass on June 26, 2022, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Largo, Md.
2021
Laila Flores was selected for the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine’s summer 2023 Translational Research Immersion Program (TRIP). The 10week program provides students mentored research experiential learning opportunities in the field of clinical and translational research (CTR). Laila is completing a research project, as well as participating in the TRIP curriculum, highlighting methodologies in translational research, professional skills development workshops, career panels, student research presentations and social engagement. She receives on-campus housing, a transportation allowance and a stipend to participate in the program. A Biology/Pre-Med major with a double minor in Chemistry and Public Health Sciences at Xavier University of Louisiana (XULA), Laila is a member of Alpha Lambda Delta, Sigma Alpha Pi, and Alpha
Epsilon Delta (Pre-Med) academic honor societies. She is a member of the Tulane University School of Medicine NOLA Health Leaders Program (NOLA HLP), serving the Greater New Orleans community. While shadowing a team of pediatricians performing patient care at Children’s Hospital within the 20222023 academic year, she has completed over 100 community medicine volunteer hours . “She is the personification of Black Excellence in STEM,” said Laila’s father, David Flores.
2022
Cheyenne DeGross was recently featured in the “Chatty Cathy” podcast where she spoke about transitioning to college and playing softball at the college level at George Madison University. She also spoke extensively about how attending Holy Cross helped prepare her for this next level and gave her the support she needed to be successful.
Shelby ’20 and Zoe ’24 Wilson with Debbie Brown.
Laila Flores ’21
Catherine Hunt-Neu
HOLY CROSS’ ALL ALUMNAE REUNION
7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. on October 8, 2022
The Guest of honor for the event was Lolita “Mrs. J” Jardeleza, a member of the Holy Cross faculty/staff for 40 years. She served in several capacities, most notably as theology teacher and Campus Minister, building the retreat program that is a vibrant part of our current students’ spiritual life today.
IN MEMORIAM
IN MEMORY - ALUMNAE
July 2022 - June 2023
Mary Elizabeth Wilson Maloney ’38
Grandmother of Maria Maloney ’19
Anne Berger Anderson ’43
Sister Barbara Marie Kleck ’46
Barbara Stewart Eskey ’47 Mother of Diane Eskey Murphy ’69 and Teresa Eskey Rhoderick ’73
Mary Barbara Wintermyer ’48
Patricia Castellane ’50
Jayne Harper Plank ’50
Daughter of Lillian Kengla Audetle 1921, Sister of Margaret Harper Defranceaux ’58
Marilyn Tubman ’52
Margaret Beckwith Blaisdell ’54
Joan Luebkert Kent ’55
Diana Furman Skapars ’56
Ann Robertson Wolfe ’57
Judith Howard Wismer ’57
Felicia D’Amico Velasco ’58
Elayne McCarthy ’59
Margaret Gallagher Colbert ’60
Sister of Sheila Convis ’61
Patricia Medlar Webster ’60
Mother of Erin Webster Justice ’88
Edna Mary Priolo Larson ’62
Sister of Lorraine Priolo Kemp ’65, Betty Priolo Free ’67 and Anita Priolo Ryer ’60*
Susan Thomas Schiavone ’64
Patricia Blaszek Kerbe ’65
Sister of Veronica Blaszek Gilbarte ’61, Theresa Blaszek Lloyd ’62, Barbara Blaszek Abner ’69 and Mary Ellen Blaszek Murphy ’73
Sharyn Buckwalter Turner ’66
Eleanor Shea Deitchman ’66
Christine Dietle Engleman ’67
Mother of Elizabeth Engleman ’94; Sister of Michele Dietle Snow ’70
Kathleen Walsh Burlin ’67
Christine Brownholtz Kuehnle ’69
Sister of Barbara Brownholtz Walker ’72
Christina “Chris” Straney Kearney ’69
Marilyn Darrall Sindall ’70
Sister of Margaret Darrall Higginbotham ’68; Sister-in-law of Mary Sindall Madden ’70
Laureen Heenan Church ’70
Sister of Kathleen McGuan ’72 and Maureen Heenan ’68
Ann Walter Berghausen ’72
Sister of Doris Walter Wilmot ’66 and Carolyn Walter Hendrickson ’64
Margaret Moreland Mazcko ’72
Diane Wilcox Elmore ’73
Sister of Kathleen Wilcox ’71; Mother of Shannon Elmore ’06; Aunt of Elizabeth Wilcox ’13
Jennifer Haaser Mattei ’77
Julie Marable ’78
Hillary Russell Martinez ’84
Sister of Holly Russell Upton ’75, Heather Russell McHugh ’83, Hope Russell Sullivan ’86 and Heidi Russell Green ’88
Bayly Kirlin Leighton ’98
Nicole Perry Fancovic ’03
Patricia Bisgood Claussen ’61
IN MEMORIAM
IN MEMORY - FAMILY OF ALUMNAE
Polly Andrakakos
Mother-in-law to Lissa Butler Andrakakos ‘78; Grandmother to Victoria Andrakakos Rumley ‘11 and Alexandra Andrakakos McGaha ‘09
Rolf Baglien
Husband of Pam Higginbotham Baglien ‘67
Julie Bail
Mother of Evin Bail O’Keeffe ‘93
Kenneth Brown
Father of Hayley Brown ‘15
John Conroy
Father of Roseanna Haley ‘81 and Linda Joesoef ‘84
Michael Craig Father of Grace Gulli Craig ‘69
Debra Jo Creel
Mother of Carolyn Creel ‘97
Gina Creel
Sister of Carolyn Creel ‘97
Peter DeLonga
Husband of Tracey Boyle DeLonga ‘72
Keven Dundon
Son of Kathleen Zepp ‘61
Thomas Dunne
Father of Jeanne Dunne Olding ‘79, Sharon Dunne Winesett ‘81 and Susan Dunne Lozupone ‘85
John Fiddyment
Husband of Carol Snow Fiddyment ‘67
Juan Garro
Father of Jennifer Garro Leusch ‘88
Jay Kenney
Father of Brigit Kenney ‘16
Tyler Lightcap
Brother of Cori Anne Sabate Russell ‘09
Brenda Lightcap
Mother of Cori Anne Sabate Russell ‘09
George Mack
Husband of Geraldine Engert Mack ‘56
Mary Louise Manning
Mother of Martha Manning ‘70
Ruth Ann Marr
Mother of Kathleen Marr LaVigne ‘72
John McGarraghy
Brother of Mary Catherine McGarraghy Beyda ‘58 and Elizabeth McGarraghy Eirich ‘60
Justin McIntyre
Son of Caren Plunkett McIntyre ‘72
Thomas McKee
Husband of Nancy Romero McKee ‘53
Sister Rita McQueeney, CSC Aunt of Kathy Shipley ‘68
John Monte
Brother of Anne Monte ‘82, Clare Monte Stonesifer ‘83, Jane Monte Timperman ‘87 and Eleanor Monte Jones ‘90
Anne Riley
Mother of Katie Riley Clifford ‘88 and Kelly Riley Burns ‘88
Doris Rowzee
Mother of Jeanne Rowzee ‘76 and Joanne Rowzee ‘80
Michael Ryan, Jr. Father of Mr. Calvin Ryan ‘18
Laura Slattery Samford Mother of Beth Samford ‘10
Beverly Sassa Mother of Joan Sassa Grover ‘81
Adam Shirvinsky Father of Lara Hillman ‘91 and Lisa Boncaldo ‘86
Brian Story
Husband of Jennifer Gondek Story ‘95
Edward Werner
Husband of Georgia Gogos Werner ‘56
William P. Jeter, Jr. Father of Latasha Jeter ’14
Alyce Bean Stifter
Mother of Cindy Stifter ‘71 and Rosemary Stifter Hadley ‘81; Mother-in-Law of Cheryl Bula Stifter ‘78
John Edward Cronin Father of Kara Cronin ‘14
Martin Charles McHugh Father of Megan McHugh Cole ’89; Brother of Patricia McHugh O’Hara ’62; Grandfather of Kendra Cole ’25
Michael Emmet Davitt Father of Cara Franke ‘05, Anna Hogan ‘09 and Allison Davitt ‘13; Brother of Patty Long ‘82, Casey Bloomer ‘80 and Margaret Leddy ‘76; Uncle of Maggie Long White ‘09, Brydie Long ‘11, Sarah Long ‘13, Caroline Long ’15 and Brynn Davitt Carnahan ‘09
IN MEMORY FAMILY OF CURRENT STUDENTS
John Sellman
Father of Emerson (Emmi) Sellman ‘24
Kaylee Ferrufino Sister of Heyse Ferrufino ‘25
UPCOMING EVENTS
SATURDAY, MARCH 9, 2024
BENEFIT AUCTION
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2023 COOKIES WITH SANTA
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2024
CAREER DAY
FRIDAY, MAY 10, 2024
DISTINGUISHED ALUMNAE AWARD AND ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME INDUCTION
