SEM Today 2024

TODAY

2024 MOMENTUM FOR THE FUTURE

2 Welcoming Blair Parker

3 Interview with Jessie Fisher ’92

6 Admissions Update

8 Sophomore Honors Program

10 Hornet/Jacket Day

12 Tara VanDerveer

Letter from the Editor

It has been a privilege to curate this collection of SEM stories that exemplify the concept of “Momentum For The Future”. The students, faculty, staff, alumnae, Board of Trustees, and families in the SEM community provide countless examples of this energy, both potential and realized, in myriad accomplishments, hopes, collaborations, and spirit. The values and mission of SEM provide a meaningful foundation for everyone in its orbit to discover and build on their individual strengths and passions in ways that have demonstrated benefits to the SEM community, the city of Buffalo, and the world at large.

In this issue, we celebrate, dream, and reflect. We honor alumnae who have had impactful careers, faculty who have thoughtfully developed programs that challenge our students to discover themselves and their authentic paths, current students as they look forward to taking those next steps, the endless support we receive from our parents and community, the work we’ve been doing to keep moving SEM forward, and the leadership and legacy of outgoing Head of School, Helen Ladds Marlette.

Thank you to all of our contributors, and to all of you in SEM’s far-reaching network who champion our mission and momentum throughout the world.

Please enjoy this year’s issue of SEM Today!

Sincerely,

Annual magazine for the alumnae, friends, parents, and students of Buffalo Seminary

Spring 2024

Head of School

Helen Ladds Marlette

SEM Today Editor

Erin O’Mara

Assistant Director of Admissions and Marketing

Contributors

Carrie Lyons Auwarter ’96, Director of Enrollment Management

Shayley Casey ’24

Jessie Schnell Fisher ’92

Jennifer Goetz-Bixby, Ph.D., Science/Math Faculty, Capstone Coordinator

Mary Goetz ’24

Leah Kimmet, Director of Development

Helen Ladds Marlette, Head of School

Lindsay Mathias ’11, Advancement and Admissions Coordinator

Cassidy Merriman ’24

Kacie Mills, Director of Athletics

Karen Moden ’83, Alumnae Relations Coordinator

Ashley Morlock,

Gift Records and Database Manager

Fiona Murphy ’24

Alexandra Myles ’25

Blair Parker, Incoming Head of School

Lilli Rauch ’25

Elizabeth Roach, Trustee

Olivia Smith ’24

Sofia Wittenbrink ’24

Alison Wright, English Department Chair

Photography and Art

Matthew Digati

Leah Kimmet

Lindsay Mathias ’11

Geoff Schneider

Elizabeth Snyder P’26

Stanford University

Design

Cassandra Ott

LETTER FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL

Momentum is a fascinating force. It builds slowly and when you begin to feel the power, you work even harder to keep it going. My mom always said, “make hay while the sun shines.” Well, the sun has been shining on SEM and we are building momentum for the 175th anniversary of the founding of Buffalo Female Academy in 1851.

The school was founded by parents who believed that their daughters deserved to have as rigorous an education as their sons were receiving in boys’ schools. It was this bold move that started the momentum upon which the students, faculty, parents, and graduates continue to build. The mission today is not that dissimilar to the mission in 1851. For 173 years, SEM graduates have been prepared for the world and the times in which they live. The education is not designed to be just like the education for boys, but it is designed to ensure that SEM graduates are, “… engaged scholars and citizens, proud to shape society rather than be controlled by it, and ready to live and lead with honor, courage, and confidence.”

Our future

is

rooted in

our past

and builds upon it, yet it is our continued efforts to improve that distinguish us today. It is incumbent upon all of us who have come before to invest in the opportunities for generations to come, to persist in our momentum.

I hope you enjoy this edition of SEM Today. Our goal is to highlight the stories of SEM students and faculty and the unique programs we offer today as well honor those who graduated before and exemplify the power of a SEM education. The power of a school that has strength of tradition and the courage to be innovative.

Helen L. Marlette

LETTER FROM INCOMING HEAD OF SCHOOL

BLAIR PARKER

I am honored to be joining the SEM community as the next Head of School beginning this summer.

When I was first introduced to Buffalo Seminary a year ago, I recognized it as a truly special place. Since then I have had the opportunity to hear so many wonderful stories about – and experience directly – the magic of SEM. From the power of community felt in each morning meeting, to the individual and community strengths apparent at the NYC alumnae event in February that I had the privilege of attending, the magic of SEM is palpable. I am both humbled and grateful to be a part of it.

The mission to prepare students “to shape society rather than be controlled by it” is a goal that I believe only a girls’ school can achieve. I have spent my life in independent schools and began my career as a history teacher at a girls’ boarding school. My time there showed me the power of a girls’ school to build confidence and competence in young women. From Emma Willard, I moved to Washington, DC where I continued to teach and coach at National Cathedral School, another girls’ school. After finishing my graduate work at Teachers College, I decided to stay in New York City where I have led the Upper Schools at two co-ed schools.

Now, as I look ahead to joining SEM, my work as an educator has come full circle. I am looking forward to returning to a girls’ school, learning more about the history of SEM as a trailblazer for girls in Buffalo, and joining in sharing SEM’s story. SEM students are currently thriving in a community where they have strong relationships with their teachers, administrators, and each other. They have extraordinary opportunities at SEM, in Western New York and around the world. This world needs engaged citizens, STEM experts, and thoughtful leaders. SEM is uniquely poised to nurture and develop these thoughtful leaders. Indeed the students and alumnae I have already met are proof of this magic in action.

At the alumnae gathering in New York City this winter, we had the opportunity to begin to honor Helen Marlette’s incredible leadership. As I prepare to lead SEM, I meet regularly with Helen and am grateful for her wisdom and friendship. Her warmth and dedication to SEM and girls’ education more broadly has resonated in and beyond the SEM community, and has set a standard I hope to honor in my tenure as your next Head of School.

My partner, Beth Onofry, and our two young children, Owen and Eleanor, are also looking forward to living on the SEM campus and becoming Buffalonians. We could not be more excited to join the SEM community and look forward to seeing you very soon.

ONE ALUMNA’S LOCAL IMPACT

THIS PAST FALL, SEM ALUMNA JESSIE SCHNELL FISHER ’92 ADDRESSED THE STUDENTS AND OFFERED REFLECTIONS ABOUT HOW HER TIME AT SEM HELPED TO SHAPE WHO SHE IS AND THE REMARKABLE WORK SHE DOES IN THE BUFFALO COMMUNITY TODAY. WE LOVED HER MESSAGE AND ARE EXCITED TO HAVE HER CONTRIBUTION TO THIS EXPLORATION OF THE “MOMENTUM FOR THE FUTURE” THAT THE SEM EXPERIENCE PROVIDES TO ITS STUDENTS.

Photo of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Darwin Martin House by Matthew Digati.

A CONVERSATION WITH

JESSIE SCHNELL FISHER ’92 AND ERIN O’MARA Assistant Director of Admissions and Marketing

Jessie, thank you so much for lending your perspective to this collection. I’d love to start by talking about the work you’ve done, and continue to do, to support communities and preservation efforts here in Buffalo. What achievements stand out most to you personally?

I always tell people that I got my urban planning degree in my twenties, but I became an urban planner when I was eight years old and we moved to our little blue house on Norwood Avenue in the City of Buffalo. Growing up in the Elmwood Village neighborhood really gave me this almost intuitive sense of what a community that nurtures its residents looks like. I was able to be independent as a child in a neighborhood that allowed me to walk to so many places and where we knew so many of the small business owners and neighbors. At the same time, this was the eighties in Buffalo, so there was a lot of negativity about the City from different perspectives with so many people leaving the City or the region and that permeated the media coverage of the place that I loved so much.

So I’m really most proud of the work that I’ve contributed to that has changed the way that people think about this City – getting people to realize that we are an incredibly important architectural center in the United States and helping people to invest in improving their own communities. Some of my favorite work I’ve spearheaded are the creation of Design Guidelines for the Elmwood Village, the creation of the Broadway Fillmore Historic District, working with the African Heritage Food Co-op to acquire and stabilize an historic 1860s grocery store to put back to use as new grocery store to provide healthy food options in the City’s Fruit Belt neighborhood, and of course being the project manager for the Asbury Hall (Babeville). Turning that abandoned church threatened with demolition into a destination cultural space in downtown Buffalo in the early 2000s I think really showed a lot of people what was possible and how we could use our historic architecture as a source of a prosperous future economy. It’s been really fun to watch more and more historic buildings being redeveloped since then!

Now, as the Executive Director of the Martin House, there is an even larger opportunity to continue to educate people both within Buffalo and far far beyond (over 50% of our visitors come from outside of New York State), about how design

impacts their lives, how they can engage in important discussions around architecture and preservation in their own communities, and about how important Buffalo architecture is.

When you came to speak in October you spoke about how, when you were a student at SEM, the context of the physical space, the building itself, gave you a sense of connection to past SEM communities. Can you share how that impacted you then and how that impact has lasted for you?

Going to school at SEM, I always felt such a strong sense of connection to the young women of the past. Their circumstances and context were, of course, very different – they lived through the Civil War and the Depression and Suffrage and so many other things - but when you would think of these young women singing the same songs that we sang, running up and down the same stairs that we did, sitting in the same chapel seats as us, I couldn’t help but feel this strong connection to both the past and the future – these amazing young women who are currently singing Jerusalem, and sitting in front of the fire in the library today, and the ones who are going to be sitting there tomorrow. There is something very comforting about feeling like you are part of a continuum, part of a community that stretches into the past and stretches forward into the future. For me, it gave me a sense of gratitude for the women who came before me, along with a sense of obligation to the women who would come after me. And being in the same spaces they were in and will be in really made it very real for me.

What other elements of your experience at SEM would you say have helped to shape your life?

Whenever I have friends with daughters who let me know they are considering SEM it makes my heart sing! We have such a top flight educational experience combined with this incredibly supportive environment. I always felt that from the faculty to the administration to my fellow students - everyone wanted me to discover my authentic self and the ways in which I would personally be successful in the world. Not based on anyone’s metrics but my own. It was just an incredibly supportive space to get to go to every day. And more and more every day I realize how much we were exposed to and the thoughtfulness of the curriculum. I am so grateful to have had my SEM education as an underpinning to the rest of my education. Whether it was Mrs. Magavern and writing, or Mrs. Fiedler and literature, or Mr. Schooley and history, I use their lessons every day all these years later.

You gave some beautiful advice to our seniors, as they start making decisions about the rest of their lives, to create the world they want to live in, and the lives they want to live. Can you share a little more here about what that means to you?

I think in these days of “YOLO” there can sometimes be this pressure to feel like life is short, and you have to be in accomplishment mode every day, and you have to have everything all figured out at a very young age. I certainly see that in my teenagers and their friends. But I have an aunt who used to say: Life is a long time. One of the things I do is try to picture myself as a ninety year old woman: if I knew I were going to look back on a long life, what would a well-lived life look like for me from that perspective? It has made me realize that lots of the women that I admire have had many chapters and many different types of accomplishments, and so it makes me feel like its ok to switch tracks and really try lots of different things – there will be enough time to do a lot of things that I want to do, I don’t have to be pigeonholed into only one type of work or family life or anything else.

Another thing that someone said to me once was: You can always make a different decision. I love that advice – it takes so much of the pressure off. To me, it means you can try something but if it’s not working you can just decide to try something else. It doesn’t have to mean failure, it can just mean that that another decision would be better at that particular moment. Thinking that way has made me feel comfortable taking the chances that have enriched my life to no end.

“Make you proud of you” was another great message you presented to our students that day. How have you done that for yourself?

I love that question. I do wish that women would give themselves more permission to be proud of themselves – sometimes it feels more natural to demure, and society seems to be more comfortable with women who are less visible. But that does such a disservice to our daughters and nieces, and all the women coming up behind us, so I love listening to women talk about their accomplishments. I think I’m probably most proud of the way that I have been able to build a career that embodies the values that I care about and that I do feel like the work that I have done has led to positive change in this little city that I love so much.

Jessie Schnell Fisher ’92 is the Executive Director of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House. As stated in the Martin House Press Release announcing her as their next Executive Director, “Fisher served as the Executive Director of Preservation Buffalo Niagara from 2015 to 2022. In that time she grew PBN’s operating support and membership, spearheaded numerous collaborations across the community, and developed several new areas of programming, including the New York State-funded $5 million East Side Commercial Building Stabilization Fund and the groundbreaking Preservation Receivership Program, among numerous other accomplishments. Prior to PBN, Fisher served as the Director of Planning at Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper and served as a Principal at Buffalo Urban Design Studio, which she founded to do communitybased neighborhood planning. Fisher holds a Bachelor’s degree in Urban Studies and Political Science from Canisius College and a Master’s in Urban Design and Planning from the University of Washington.”

MY JOURNEY HOME FOR SEM’S PUSH FORWARD

Carrie Lyons Auwarter, ’96 Director of Enrollment Management

When I came to SEM as a freshman in the fall of 1992, I was a shy kid who was terrified of speaking up in class, stepping out of my comfort zone in any way, and quite possibly of my own shadow. Additionally, would I be compared to my two older sisters who had gone before me, or would I be seen for who I was as an individual? SEM instilled in me the confidence to find my voice, to lead, to never give up and to stand up for what’s right. I would say that my moral compass was grounded at 205 Bidwell and has guided me my entire life. SEM saw me for me, and helped me to forge my own path.

I began my admissions career at SEM in the early 2000’s, and developed my love for the intricacies of admission work. From 2015 until the summer of 2023, I led an admissions office at a co-ed boarding and day school in Tennessee and it was there that I honed my skills as an admissions professional and worked/networked with boarding schools across the country. But something was always missing in my professional life: being immersed in the all-girl experience that we all know is so transformative for young women.

When the opportunity arose in the summer of 2023, I jumped at the chance to come back home to Buffalo and to SEM where it all began. My SEM friends were the first to greet me upon arrival, and immediately after that were a few of my former SEM teachers and colleagues who impacted my life in such a monumental way. There really are no other schools like SEM, and I value it now more than ever, especially in light of having a young daughter. I have an unwavering drive to make sure SEM succeeds in the future. SEM is, and should be, the best option for girls in Buffalo and around the world.

Fast forward to today, and I’m proud to say that we are nearing 40 students enrolled in the 9th grade class! We have reimagined the admission process and systems that go along with it, and we offer a very personalized experience. We are networking in the local, national and international communities, building connections to ensure SEM is top of mind. The buzz surrounding SEM is palpable right now, and there is indeed momentum all around.

LET’S KEEP IT GOING!

1ST DAY OF SCHOOL

THE SPACE TO TRY SOMETHING NEW

by Alison Wright English Department Chair

THE SOPHOMORE HONORS PROGRAM

Tarot cards, magicians, and the Salem witch trials. Genesis, The Cartoon Network, and my relationship with my father. Lycanthropy and vampirism, invasive plants, and colonialism. Gentrification, generational trauma, and zoos.

These are just some of the topics our sophomores are writing about this spring—and they’re doing this by choice, with no promise of any grade or even credit at all. For the final project of the Sophomore Honors Program (SHP), now in its second year, students study and then produce a braided essay—a form of creative nonfiction in which a writer weaves together several seemingly disparate topics to create a thematically cohesive piece of writing.

Let’s back up a bit—when the English Department was designing and developing the SHP, we wanted to think about what values we hold as a department, what qualities we would want to develop in our honors students, and what kinds of knowledge and skills we would want to see specifically in the honors track. Ultimately, we came up with a processoriented program built around students shaping

their own intellectual and academic path while also fostering intellectual community and mentorship. We also wanted our program to be as accessible and equitable as possible; as such, it’s open to all sophomores—anyone can opt in to the honors program. To make this work, we needed our program to be asynchronous, outside the scope of the core sophomore English course so the honors students would be dispersed throughout all the sections.

At the beginning of the first and second trimesters, each student chooses a book to read from a curated list of American authors. They read and study it on their own, though they’re also assigned mentors from the English Department to help them work through ideas. We also have regular “teas” or meetings, outside of regular classes during mutual free periods (and we do have tea and biscuits), in which students from the program and English teachers meet up to talk about books, ideas, the nature of meaning—all the good existential stuff that you get in an English class, plus cookies. This fall, we looked at visual art to practice distinguishing between subject matter and what the author/artist is trying to convey about that subject matter. We asked ourselves, what’s so American about American literature? Whose voices are included in American literature—people who were born here? People who moved here? People who spent any number of months here? What does it even mean to have a national literature?

At the end of each of those trimesters, students create a project about their chosen book. Although students can and do write literary analysis essays, we wanted to expand the options beyond the realm of our regular coursework so that students have the opportunity to do something creative. One student who read Catcher in the Rye wrote several songs about Holden Caulfield—lyrics, music, the whole thing—and made a recording of a song as their final assignment. One student who read Little Women created a portrait of the March women in which each sister was made using a different medium (oil, oil pastel, charcoal, and collage) according to their characterization. Marmee, being their mother and the force that held the family together, was represented as a combination of all those mediums. Students have written poems in the style of Mary Oliver or inspired by Octavia E. Butler. They’ve written semi-autobiographical accounts of their lives, following Alice Walker. One student who read Slaughterhouse Five created a deconstructed essay about form inspired by the structure of the novel’s narrative. Another created an incredibly ambitious world-building project, an imaginary D&D campaign set in the world of Ursula Le Guin’s The Left Hand of Darkness

Most gratifying from a teacher’s perspective is the number of students who have tried something new. One student who read Ariel wrote a series of poems with what she calls “Sylvia Plath Vibes”—a combination of style, inspiration, and subject matter. This student had never written poetry before and took to it like a duck to water, and she’s continued to write in her own time (look to this year’s Seminaria to see an example of her work outside the SHP). Our students are excited to discover that we’re making space for them to try something new without having to worry about a grade, giving them the opportunity to experiment without the pressures of college and GPAs always at their backs. Because the program is credit/non, students don’t receive grades for their projects. “I’ve never done something like this before” is a common refrain we hear in meetings with honors students, and the mix of fear and excitement in their voices when they say that is really the sweet spot where learning lives. This program gives them an opportunity to do the sort of learning that is increasingly rare in

an educational economy so focused on college acceptance. It also gives them a chance to play.

Which brings me back to the braided essays. All trimester, I’ve had sophomores bursting into my room at various times in the day, saying three seemingly random nouns, and looking expectantly at me. With a bit of encouragement, they start explaining how Van Gogh is definitely related to buying jeans twenty years ago, or how the history of boxed cake mixes is related to perfection as an ultimately unattainable goal. The braided essay form isn’t just a great writing exercise, it’s also great practice at thinking about the world in a complex, interconnected way. You can practically hear their brains whirring as they notice patterns and try to articulate what they’re just beginning to grasp. And they’re having fun! Because they’re writing about what they’re interested in, the writing process can be exhilarating.

The English Department designed this program from soup to nuts with the blessing of the administration. Watching the kids do all this incredible work, it’s not lost on us how lucky we are to teach at a school where a program like this can work—a school that fosters intellectual growth and community within its students just as it does for its faculty. As the program continues, and, we hope, as it grows, we’re excited to see and to share what community our students create in the future.

on Larkin Field with a special visit from alumna Jerry Walsh Clauss ’47

TARA VANDERVEER ’71 A Trailblazer’s Legacy in Women’s Sports

by Kacie Mills Director of Athletics

SEM Alumna Tara VanDerveer ’71, the iconic coach of Stanford University’s women’s basketball team, is not just a figure in sports; she’s a trailblazer, a mentor, and a symbol of excellence. As she steps away from the sidelines, her retirement marks the end of an era defined by unparalleled success and a profound impact on women’s sports.

Her coaching career started in 1978 at Ohio State (1980-85), but it didn’t take long for her to make a name for herself as a skilled tactician and a fierce competitor. In 1985, VanDerveer took the helm of the Stanford women’s basketball program, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Under her guidance, Stanford transformed into a women’s college basketball powerhouse. She led the Cardinal to three NCAA championships and 14 Final Four appearances, 15-time Pac-12 Champions, and was a 17-time Pac-12 Coach of the Year, along with five national Coach of the Year honors, and in 2011 was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Her relentless pursuit of excellence earned her numerous accolades, including becoming the winningest coach in NCAA history with 1,216 career wins in January 2024.

Beyond the wins and championships, VanDerveer’s impact extends far beyond the basketball court. She has been a vocal advocate for gender equality in sports, fighting tirelessly to secure increased hiring practices for women coaches and equity across sports experiences, resources, and opportunities. In 2021, VanDerveer demanded change, calling out the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament for the blatant sexism across collegiate sports. Her unwavering advocacy has paved the way for the growth of women’s sports. Just this year, the women’s NCAA championship between South Carolina and Iowa averaged about 18.7 million views, making it the first time in history that a women’s final has drawn a larger TV audience than the men’s. VanDerveer is a large part of that.

As she bids farewell to coaching, VanDerveer’s legacy is one of excellence, integrity, and empowerment. Her impact on women’s sports transcends statistics and trophies, serving as a beacon of inspiration for all who dare to

dream big and defy the odds.

SEM Athletics

“One thing that honestly pushed me forward has been failure. Getting bad test grades, not running as fast as I wanted to at track meets, not jumping far enough, these things all helped me find comfort in my failure because I knew it was within my control to change them. Coming to SEM has allowed me to open my eyes and realize that without failure I wouldn’t be able to learn from my mistakes in order to succeed. As SGA president, I want students to be able to look up to me but also relate to me. My time at SEM so far has been filled with so many amazing experiences, experiences that I want to share with everyone! I’m so excited for the next year and everything that is to come.”

- Alexandra Myles ’25, SGA President Elect

SQUASH

SOCCER

BOWLING

CROSS COUNTRY

TENNIS

FIELD HOCKEY

BASKETBALL

SWIMMING LACROSSE

golf

Elle Noecker ’24, signing with University of Georgia for swimming, 11/8/23

GOLF

“When I came to SEM, I really didn’t see myself as an athlete. I had begun running in the months leading up to the school year, and I thought that cross country could be fun. I was the only freshman on the team that year, and I was so scared, but the upperclassmen were so welcoming that I just loved the sport. I realized that season that I had some potential in the sport if I just kept working hard. In the past four years, I have had the opportunity to run cross country and track and somewhere along the way, I became an athlete I never would’ve expected. I’d be remiss to say it was easy to balance my school work and training, but as I’ve grown at SEM, I’ve learned that I’m capable of much more than I ever thought, and you can’t take everything too seriously, or you’ll miss out on how exceptional these experiences are.”

- Fiona Murphy ’24

CAPSTONE: PREPARING SEM GRADUATES FOR THEIR FUTURES

by Jennifer Goetz-Bixby, Ph.D. Science/Math Faculty, Capstone Coordinator

SEM’s Portrait of a Graduate reads:

When each of you graduates from SEM, we expect you to:

• Enthusiastically share what makes you unique

• Pursue new learning experiences with curiosity

• Speak confidently and listen with an open mind

• Converse with anyone about anything

• Fully participate in the creation of a world that is just, diverse, inclusive, and ever changing

As educators, we understand that providing students with the necessary tools and opportunities to practice using them is essential for their success. The SEM Capstone program serves as an invaluable platform for students to refine the skills they’ve acquired over their three years at SEM, often without even realizing it.

Capstone is a self-directed project that each SEM student completes in the senior year. Building on skills developed throughout their careers at SEM, seniors explore a topic of their choosing, and students are challenged to follow their passion. The goal of Capstone is to allow SEM students a chance to apply all their skills, talent, and creativity to engage with the world in a way that is genuine and meaningful to them.

To successfully complete this Capstone project, students must “pursue new learning experiences

with curiosity” as they explore and decide on a topic and research it. When students venture into the world beyond SEM to explore their Capstone from a different perspective, we expect them to “converse with anyone about anything”. As students develop their thesis and supporting arguments, they need to “speak confidently” to defend their claims while they “listen with an open mind” to alternate points of view and constructive criticism. At SEMposium, our presenting seniors “enthusiastically share what makes them unique” as they discuss their individualized experiences, including the artifacts they’ve created and the conclusions they’ve thoughtfully reached.

Everything we do at SEM has a purpose, to prepare our students for the world beyond our doors, so that they may “fully participate in the creation of a world that is just, diverse, inclusive, and ever-changing.”

m THE GREAT PERHAPS n

‚

I have not yet had my defining moment; that decision that completely alters the remaining course of your life. Patroclus’ choice to go into battle dressed as Achilles; Steve Rogers jumping onto the grenade; Andrew Neiman returning to the stage to drum out “Caravan.” That defining moment that thrusts open the doors to the rest of your life, or as John Green puts it in his novel Looking for Alaska, my “Great Perhaps.” What John Green does not provide is where this Great Perhaps is, or how to get there. And that’s the frustrating beauty of it all, really. It is the one thing in my life that I cannot meticulously map out.

I am the middle child and only girl in my family, I’ve taken up responsibility with open arms for my entire life. I crave it. To balance this, every second is planned out; even the moments of spontaneity are given time slots.

Despite this need for organization, at any given time my head is an office maze. No cubicles to distinguish spheres of information, but riddled with timelines and calculations for high school, college, New York, and everything after; how to get there, complete with branching alternatives for any change of mind I could think of (my best friend and I want to live in New York together; two years ago I wanted to go to college in Boston; last year I planned to move to San Diego because I wanted to surf). The walls of my skull are papered with movie posters, the floors buried beneath books, and the desks pasted with post-it notes where I jot down every story idea, quote, and the last time I moved my paycheck money. Constantly sorting through the endless paper for a map, I am lost at sea within my own psyche.

And they’re not even my plans. They’re bits and pieces from every rom-com and drama I’ve watched. Boston because of Good Will Hunting; San Diego because of Purple Hearts; New York

by Mary Goetz ’24

because of How I Met Your Mother and virtually every other rom-com from 1990-2007; the clothes I wear alter every time I see a new show or read a new book. I even got the name of this phenomenon of possibility from something else. The door to the Great Perhaps can’t open when the door only exists in a work of fiction.

But that door must be opened. I hope, desperately grasp at the faith, that once it is, I’ll know what to do. That once my life is defined, everything can fall into place and a map will form and all I must do is follow it. Still, the questions eat at me: do real people have defining moments? Are they simply a literary device? Have I already had one and not noticed because it seemed so mundane at the time? The unknown is my greatest fear. But maybe I haven’t been able to find my Great Perhaps because I have no perhaps in my life. Maybe life is about conquering your biggest fears, allowing the unknown to seep in and replace some of those plans, and to get comfortable with the uncomfortable. Because, one day, and I’m not going to know when, and I’m not going to know how, but one day that door will open. And it’s my own two legs that need to walk through it. Maybe the “perhaps” calls upon me to add my own spark of originality to those movie references. Or maybe I’m someone who needs to believe I can be my own inspiration. There’s a popular existential belief that discerns that there is no one grand meaning to life; each person has to create their own. I can be the start and the finish to my story, with as many defining moments as I see fit.

Cassidy & Kennedy

I cannot imagine life without my siblings. Concerts with them in our living room, sharing tents with them on our camping trips, and game nights with our whole family have been some of my favorite memories in my life. Each of us brings a different energy to our experiences allowing for constant laughs and commotion. My siblings, individually, have made me the person I am today, and together have taught me how to love that person.

When Kennedy got accepted to SEM last year, I was overjoyed to be able to attend the same school as her again. Not only would we be back in school together, but we would be able to join the same sports teams, too… At one of our games this year, I was playing my normal position on defense, when a girl from the other team was coming up to score. I went up to try and take the ball from her and she aggressively shoved herself into me and almost knocked me over. Not even a fraction of a second later, Kennedy flew in from out of nowhere and body checked into the girl, knocking her to the ground.

Kennedy then turned towards me and said: No one messes with my sister.

What I did not realize when I was younger is that a twin is like a permanent best friend and what I didn’t realize is how lonely it is without her around.

My sister taught me love in its purest form. She taught me what it means to share— to willingly make sacrifices for the benefit of others, simply because you love them.

Scan each QR code to watch the full Senior Presentation

Arts @ SEM

SEM’s Theatre Arts group performs Night Night, Roger Roger with a surprise visit from playwright Roni Ragone

SEM artists take the Art Alive award for Best Craftsmanship in the 9-12 category

Revel 2023

Cast of Tinker Bell

SPEARHEADING SEM’S PARENT ASSOCIATION RENAISSANCE

AMIDST COVID

By Leah Kimmet, Director of Development

Krissie Bonin’s journey at SEM began amidst the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a parent to Lilli Rauch, a treasured member of the Class of ‘25, Krissie quickly found solace and inspiration in the vibrant community that defines SEM. Through Lilli’s sporting events and the strong friendships she forged, Krissie witnessed firsthand the magic of SEM’s sisterhood—a bond that fosters a sense of belonging like no other and transcends generations.

One particular moment stands out vividly in Krissie’s memory—a field hockey game where SEM alumnae gathered on the sidelines, cheering passionately for the students. In that moment, Krissie realized the depth of SEM’s community spirit, rooted in a rich tradition of support, mentorship, and camaraderie. It was an experience that would shape her journey as a parent and propel her into a leadership role within the SEM community.

Assuming the helm as President of the Parent Association at a pivotal juncture, Krissie embarked on a mission to cultivate community and reinvigorate the spirit of engagement at SEM. With the school just beginning to reopen its doors after the pandemic, her vision was clear—to harness the collective energy and enthusiasm of parents, faculty, and students alike, and channel it into meaningful action.

Drawing upon her innate leadership skills, her strong ability to make connections with people, and her boundless passion for SEM’s mission, Krissie embarked on a journey of transformation. She spearheaded initiatives aimed at building relationships and rekindling the sense of belonging that defines the SEM experience. From parent meetings to book clubs to fundraisers, she created platforms for parents to come together, share their experiences, and contribute to the vibrant tapestry of SEM’s community.

Under Krissie’s guidance, the Parent Association emerged as a driving force behind initiatives that enriched the educational experience of students and supported the faculty in their mission. Krissie’s dedication to SEM extended beyond fostering community among parents; she also recognized the invaluable support provided by the SEM faculty and staff, who attended games and supported the students in remarkable ways. Through her unwavering commitment and boundless passion, she has reminded us of what it means to be a part of the SEM family, leaving a legacy that will endure for generations to come. We are so grateful for her!

Thank you, Krissie!

My mom works so unbelievably hard in all the things that she does. She truly cares so much about the SEM community and seeing her step into the role of being the Head of Parent Association has motivated me to more confidently play my part in the SEM community.

- Lilli Rauch ’25

GRANDPARENTS’ DAY

COLBY ARTIST: MIZIN SHIN

VISITORS AT SEM

MUFUKA MARTIN

HANGING OF THE GREENS

BSAA NEWS

The Buffalo Seminary Alumnae Association (BSAA) Board kicked off the year in September by hosting a cocktail party in the Magavern-Sutton Courtyard. Alumnae gathered to reminisce and have fun while enjoying appetizers and refreshing drinks

Head of School, Helen Marlette, and Director of Development, Leah Kimmet headed south in February to celebrate SEM with alumnae and friends in sunny Sarasota, FL (image on right). They then teamed up with Blair Parker, incoming Head of School, in NYC (left) for a very well-attended alumnae cocktail party.

The atmosphere was festive as alumnae and the community were welcomed into the school for the annual Holiday Bazaar! The day was a huge success and plans are already being made for next year’s event which will be held on Saturday, December 7th. Mark your calendars now!

Contact Karen Moden ’83 with your news or any updates:

or

We would like to share your news, career changes, and accomplishments. Selected alumnae updates will be highlighted in future SEM publications, newsletters, and on the Alumnae Class Notes page of the SEM website.

The Buffalo Seminary Alumnae Directory has been launched and can be accessed on the Alumnae page of the SEM website! If you haven’t already, please check it out!

Buffalo Chapter Board of Directors 2023-2024

Officers

President

Heather Rumsey Gibson ’91 Vice President

Katherine Hornung Fruehauf ’90

Treasurer

Christine Luongo Clark ’06

Recording Secretary

Melissa Horwitz ’90

Corresponding Secretary

Caitlin Lawton ’99

Members

Lisa Abeyounis ’82

Naila Ansari ’07

Tara Ashraf ’07

Susan Martino Burke ’88

Marnie Benatovich Cerrato ’90

Jennifer Gambino Daniels ’90

Brielle d’Estries ’06

Ellen S. Goldstein ’70

Erin Harris ’90

Arianna Hughes ’13

Elisa Kreiner ’71

Katie McHale Lotempio ’91

Jennifer Madia ’90

Marina Stapleton Markey ’07

Helen Ladds Marlette, ex officio

Karen Moden ’83, ex officio

Hilary Epes Oballim ’08

Alisa Officer ’06

Melinda Rath Sanderson ’80

Kelly Swanson ’77

Grace Clauss Wannemacher ’12

Honorary Members

Gaby DeRose ’74

Phyllis Gabbey ’58

Georgia (Gigi) Pooley Helliwell ’76

Mary E.B. “Memo” Oshei ’74

Mary Ross Rice ’52

Joan Ginther Wadsworth ’74

REUNION

Last June we celebrated the classes ending in 3’s and 8’s. 1953 was our oldest class represented and 2018 was our youngest! Old friends and classmates gathered in the Chapel, filling the room with nostalgia and laughter. Conversations flowed as memories from years past were revisited, from shared experiences in classes to memorable moments on the field or in the theatre. People caught up on each other’s lives, sharing stories of career successes, family milestones, and travels. Some attendees marveled at how much had changed since graduation, while others were struck by how some things remained the same. Amidst the chatter and catching up, there was a sense of camaraderie and connection, as everyone reminisced about the shared bond that had once defined their years at SEM.

CLASS NOTES

40’s

Ruth Roblin Winnick ’45

Very proud of The Seminary! I turned 95 in September and talk to Daney Saperston Klingenstein ’45 from time to time. “Age is no excuse for getting old.”

50’s

Ethel Roblin Melzer ’50

After celebrating 72 years of marriage, my very sweet husband, Dick Melzer passed away at age 96. Although I miss him very much, I am grateful for all the wonderful years we had together, as well as our two children, four granddaughters, and two great grandchildren. Not bad for two people who met on a blind date in 1949 and married in 1951 at ages 18 and 24! At age 91, I still exercise twice a week and just began Bridge lessons and piano lessons. Would love to hear from any of my classmates who are still around! Let’s all plan to attend our next big SEM Reunion! Love you all!

Winifred Van Koughnett Tracy ’51

I just became the great grandmother of number 10!

Barbara Jerauld Coffin ’53

Living for the past 26 years in Southern New Hampshire. Still enjoying life and still driving! I have 5 great grandchildren. Still hoping to do some political campaigning to keep the wrong guy out of the White House!

Adele Petrillo Smart ’53

I am enjoying my life here at The Blake, an assisted living facility in Lafayette, LA. I have many friends here and many activities. My daughter Kay and her husband, Kevin, live in Destin, FL. My son Mike and his wife, Ellen, divide time between their homes in San Diego and on Lake Tahoe in Glenbrook, NV. My six grandchildren, ages 18-27, are all doing well in college and their professions.

Kathryn Baker Fleishman ’54

My darling husband of 63 years, Jerry, passed away on November 7th.

Patricia Hoffman Griffen ’54

Enjoying retired life. Oldest daughter is a financial advisor, my second daughter is a retired government agent, and my son is a music supervisor for tv shows. He’s up for an Emmy in 2024!

60’s

Virginia Irwin Jenks ’61

Living in Woodstock, Vermont. A new happy grandmother!

Roberta Rich ’63

Anne Herrick Lacy ’64

Still living in Northern Wisconsin (La Pointe) and singing in the community Christmas concert. I often think of my first choral experience with Mr. Vigeland directing. He not only instilled the importance of rehearsing to get each piece to our best, he also expressed a love of music through that practice.

Judy Becker-Cavallon ’60

In May I took a two week trip to Croatia and the Dalmation Coast (cruised there) including Dubrovnik. Likely my last visit to Europe. The dry triple digit weather here in Tucson this summer was tough, though it began later than usual (mid-June).

Sarah Palmer ’60

Isabella Bannerman ’78 I am enjoying keeping up with my classmates from 1978, mostly by Facebook and sometimes in person. Still living and working in the NYC area so keep me posted if you are nearby!

Gayle Girard Woikey ’70 1966 to 1967 Freshman year English. Mac Mahoney. We studied The Book of Ecclesiastes as Literature. Foundational.

80’s

I am happy to announce that my fourth historical novel, The Jazz Club Spy was published by Simon & Schuster in November of 2023. This is my 5th novel. It is set in 1938 in the Lower Eastside, the story of a young Jewish immigrant girl who falls for the wrong man and gets drawn in a network of spies. It was a lot of fun to write and I hope it will be fun to read as well.

Patricia Crawford Berg ’61

Hoping for a better new year! Politically and environmentally.

While I only attended 2 years at Sem, it was fundamental to the development of my confidence as a woman. I just finished my Presidency of the Board of Directors at Zone 7 Water Agency, continue as President of the Board of the Delta Conveyance Design and Construction Authority, am Vice-chair of Region 5 of the Association of California Water Agencies, and am active in Rotary. My wonderful daughter Kate and her husband Vincent continue to bring me joy!

Jean Boer Cleverly ’62 I love Buffalo and San Francisco!

70’s

Marjorie Goldman Corrow ’75 November was a time to visit Cheryl McDuffie ’75 in Baltimore and Amy Bitskay Swarts ’75 & family at my Thanksgiving table. Long-time, cherished friends, dating back to childhood.

Nancy Hoffmann-Murphy ’75 I am enjoying retirement after a 40+ year career as a CPA and Hospital CFO. I look forward to our 50th reunion in 2025.

Kathleen Scott-Rugg ’76 Met my goal of visiting all seven continents!

Kate Holloway Gagne ’86 I always look forward to Christmas time and hearing from old friends via Christmas cards. Everyone’s kids are growing so quickly! My senior, Noah, just made his plans for next year and will be attending my mother’s and my sister’s alma mater, Colby Sawyer College. He’s looking forward to tennis and the spring. Sasha is a sophomore, an age I remember vividly every time John Cougar Mellancamp’s Jack & Diane comes on the radio. Merry Merry and Happy New Year to all…changes come around real soon…seems like yesterday. Go Jackets!!

Shari Willis ’81 I hope this holiday season fills all your homes with joy, laughter, and good health.

Tara Cox Matise ’82 I’m still enjoying my job as Chair of the Department of Genetics at Rutgers University. Forever grateful to Mrs. O’Day! I really enjoyed Reunion last year, and wish I could have seen more from ‘82!

2010’s

Kilby Bronstein ’10

From mother Jennifer Bronstein ’78: Kilby has purchased Finicky Filly in Charleston, SC.

Ryan Bronstein ’15

From mother Jennifer Bronstein ’78: Ryan doing amazing in NYC.

90’s

Several members of the Class of 1990 reunited in Folly Beach, SC in August 2022!

Pictured: Dana Kahn Powers, Andrea Cummings Duvall, Greta Williams Suneson, Gretchen Gerstle Greenman, Katie Stephen Hu, Marnie Benatovich Cerrato, Jennifer Gambino Daniels, and Melissa Lyons Metzger.

2000’s

Stephen Yang and Emily O’Leary Yang ’05 pose with guests at their wedding at Forte da Cruz, a beautiful Portuguese beach castle, on October 14, 2023. Stephen is holding a photo in memory of Emily’s sister, Tess O’Leary ’13. SEM alumnae in the middle row include: Jenny O’Leary ’08, Naima Pearce ’05, Angela Piscitello Au ’05, Amy Brownschidle Wopperer ’05, Julianna Glauser Jordan ’05, Dr. Christina Kufel Miller ’05, and Tara Matthews Cuevas ’05.

Elizabeth Di Cioccio ’02

Excited to announce the arrival of Aurélia Gaëlle Lebbos! Born on January 15, 2024.

Samantha Barry ’14 just opened a microbakery in Eden, NY called Sour Power where she utilizes ancient grains for their nutritional and environmental benefits.

Alicia Land ’19

Last year I graduated from UVA with a Computer Science degree and am now working for Google as a Software Engineer in the Bay Area.

Emily Bulan ’17

Attended the Savannah College of Art and Design and is now working at Lucas Films.

Dabin Han ’17

is a comic artist who has been featured in The New Yorker and New York Times

Class notes as of September 2024. To submit a Class Note, please email our Alumnae Relations Coordinator, Karen Moden ’83 at kmoden@buffaloseminary.org.

2020’s

Fiona Regan ’20 is in her senior year at University of Maine and just published an article featured in the journal of Marine Mammal Science.

Andrea Alave ’23

“So far Computer Science has been going well! I’m currently learning about data structures and algorithms in Java. Here at UR there are good resources for computer science students. For example they have CSUG which is a student-led organization to support CS undergrads. And there are events and speakers that come in to talk about CS or other related topics. Plus the CS advisors have just sent out opportunities for CS internships on UR campus and in other locations.”

Tara Porter ’17

“I attended Caltech and studied Electrical Engineering, graduating with a B.S. in 2021. During my time there, I was able to take a lot of multidisciplinary electives that interested me like robotics, microfabrication, and machine learning. I also did a number of summer research projects including one after my freshman year where I learned about computer vision and applied a CNN in Python to cardiovascular MRI to automatically detect blood vessel boundaries. I also was able to do a programmingheavy senior thesis related to brain-computer interfaces where I was looking at stabilizing the decoding of intended cursor movement from brain data in paralyzed humans (in MATLAB).

After I graduated, I took a gap year back in Buffalo where I worked as a Research Engineer at ACV Auctions in the R&D department. Here I did more with computer vision, including detecting cracked windshields from images and automatically reading odometer mileage from pictures of used car dashboards. My models are now incorporated into an overall AI system they use to prevent undisclosed vehicle issues on their online auction platform (sort of like a spell-check after inspectors have finished their vehicle reports).

I am now in my second year of a PhD program at UC San Diego in Medical Devices & Systems (Electrical & Computer Engineering Department). I am expecting to receive my master’s degree this spring and then continue on for another ~ 4 years with my research toward a PhD. I work in a lab that fabricates thinfilm neural interfaces with applications in epilepsy treatment, brain-machine interfaces, chronic pain treatment, and various other modalities. In particular, my project is to create cortical electrode grids with thousands of micro-scale recording channels and to conduct motor and sensory experiments with humans undergoing awake craniotomies for epilepsy treatment. I hope to work toward a neural prosthetic application where brain signals can be decoded using machine learning to directly control a robotic prosthetic arm in real time, which could eventually allow paralyzed people to have more independence and control a limb just with their thoughts. I use Python and MATLAB regularly in my research and also have worked with a robotic Shadow Hand that is made to mimic the human hand in terms of degrees of freedom.”

Board of Trustees 2023-2024

Volunteer Leadership

Chair:

Jennifer Daily Gress P ’23 & ’26

Vice-Chair:

Erin K. O’Brien ’86

Secretary: Mary Kelkenberg P’21 & ’23

Treasurer: Jim Kramer P’17

Members

Mark Burlow P’17

Jessica Jacobs Enstice P’19

Bethany Grabiec ’94

Kathryn J. Hamister ’97

Maureen Hays-Mitchell ’74

Doug Hopkins P’13 & ’16

Karson Humiston ’11

Kara Hornung Kerwin ’98

Cindy Levy P’22

Joanna Glauser Marymor ’00

Barbara Fischer McQueeney ’74

Brad Rauch P’25

Elizabeth Montesano Roach

Jennifer D. Roberts ’92

Jim Rooney P’24

Alicia Saia ’86

Suzanne Marlette Sears ’73, P’02

Kate Bowen Smith ’92, P’23

Cynthia Baird Stark ’81, P’08

Carrie Brown Wick ’76

ex officio

Helen L. Marlette P’13

Natalie Stothart

Life Trustees

Marjorie E. Barney

Suzanne F. Bradley ’73

Margaret Brown ’72

Jane Hopkins Carey ’75

Frederick B. Cohen, Esq.

Linda Cornelius ‘71

Jody Douglass

Shelley Cole Drake ’66

Janice Roberts Fretz ’49

Joan Willard Gruen ’51

Amy J. Habib

Mike Hornung

Luella Harder Johnson ’57

Susan Lenahan Kimberly ’68

David Knauss

Charles F. Kreiner, Jr.

Madeline Ambrus Lillie ’68

Amy Martoche ’88

Philip R. Niswander

Melanie Franco Nussdorf ’67

Kevin O’Leary

William H. Pearce, Jr.

Michael Perley

Charles R. Rice

Mary Ross Rice ’52

Amy Habib Rittling ’86

Harry B. Schooley III

Michal Wadsworth

Deceased

Joan Kostick Andrews ’48

Francis S. Faust, Esq.

Mark E. Hamister

L. Nelson Hopkins, Jr.

Murray S. Howland, MD

Barbara Cowan Hyde ’43

Elaine F. James ’42

Paul Koessler

Linda Robertson Magavern ‘73

Robin Simon Magavern ’52

Rosemary Smith Marlette ’41

Joseph H. Morey, Jr., Esq.

M. Ruth Fowler Niswander ’43

Betty Lehman Oppenheimer ’37

Jean Reese Oshei ’32

William H. Pearce, Sr.

Madeleine Breinig Reid ’33

Susan Rubenstein Schapiro ’48

Thomas Stewart

David G. Strachan

Annette Stevens Wilton ’52

Honorary Trustees

Beth Adamczyk

Ansie Silverman Baird ’55

Mary Hanrahan Berlow ’57

Geraldine Walsh Clauss ’47

Janie Urban Constantine ’66

Alice Sullivan Dillon ’51

William J. Magavern II

Mary E. B. Oshei ’74

Carin Wyckoff Phillips ’51

Tara VanDerveer ’71

James M. Wadsworth

Deceased

Katherine Crandell Bassett ’50

Mary Henrich Botsford ’33

Betty Butzer Brown ’44

Melissa Reed Chudy ’78

Dick Davis

Virginia Deuel ’33

Robert E. Dillon, Jr.

Catherine McLean Eagleson ’53

Marritje VanArsdale Greene ’69

Betty Duthie Kittinger ’30

James L. Magavern Esq.

Jean Wende McCarthy ’31

Marion Osborn ’40

Betty Johnson Ott ’40

Dorothy Doane Scott ’26

Gary R. Sutton

Patricia Runk Sweeney ’56

Susan Hanrahan Turben ’54

Linda Kittinger Wadsworth ’56

June Seufert Walker ’39

Margaret L. Wendt 1903

Rosemary Woodworth Whiting ’40

2023-24 HCAE Members

Heather Rumsey Gibson ’91 Tri-Chair

BSAA Representative Buffalo, New York

Jane Gold ’15 Tri-Chair New York, New York

Karolynn Jones Harris ’98 Tri-Chair Atlanta, Georgia

Maureen Hays-Mitchell ’74

Alumnae Trustee Representative Syracuse, New York

Patrice Cathey ’72 Amherst, New York

Victoria Dann ’09 Los Angeles, California

Eliza Kaye ’12 Chicago, Illinois

Jamila Lee ’06 Buffalo, New York

Ana Jasen McClendon ’00 Sarasota, Florida

Lisa Niswander Peterson ’03 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Jiaan Shi ‘17 New York, New York

Special Members

Leah Kimmet Director of Development

Helen L. Marlette Head of School

Karen Moden ’83 Alumnae Relations Coordinator

John Anderluh

February 10, 2023, husband of Patricia Buell Anderluh ’52

Cameron Dugan Baird

May 31, 2023, son of Ansie Silverman Baird ’55, brother of Bridget Baird ’85 and Cynthia Baird Stark ’81, Uncle of Abigail Stark ’08

Barbara Wakefield Baxter ’47

December 27, 2023

Frances Coakley Beals ’45

June 30, 2023

Sheldon Berlow

January 12, 2023, husband of Mary Hanrahan Berlow ’57

Nancy Hester Bloomer ’57

April 3, 2024

Marsha Feine Bodine ’63

January 20, 2023

June Smither Bourne ’46

January 3, 2023

Betty M. Bowling

June 6, 2023

Joan Marsh Brady ’50

May 24, 2023

Lansing G. Brisbin Jr.

January 1, 2023, husband of Joan Metzger Brisbin ’46

Ann House Brouse ’41

February 24, 2023, mother of Cristy Brouse Richardson ’65 and Laurie Brouse Diercks ’72

Robert Brown

April 11, 2023, husband of Carole Jordan Brown ’55

Julia Ladds Clauss ’75

May 6, 2023, sister of Head of School Helen L. Marlette, aunt of Elizabeth Marlette ’13

In Memoriam

Froso Colomvakos ’83

February 27, 2023

Doris Rich Corya ’39

October 20, 2023

Penelope Creeley

February 20, 2024, mother of Hannah Creeley Cedermark ’01

Jeanette Davis-Antkowiak

September 21, 2023, mother of Elizabeth Davis Steely ’81, grandmother of Thalia Steely ’10

Elizabeth DiLapo

August 24, 2023, grandmother of Iliana Lukasik ’17

Lance Donner

May 26, 2023, husband of Susan Deckop Donner ’60

Alison Fleischman ’55

April 16, 2023, grandmother of Annalise Ishwardas ’14

Barbara Setters Fox ’53

September 3, 2023

Barbara C. Fredericks

January 10, 2024

Robert Freudenheim

May 22, 2023, father of Rachel Freudenheim ’79 and Julie Freudenheim ’80

John A. Friedman

April 10, 2023, husband of the late Althea Briggs Friedman ’55*, brother-in-law of Jane Genske Briggs ’52

Susan Copeland Grant ’56

April 19, 2023, sister of Merrily Copeland Beyreuther ’60, Sally Copeland O’Brien ‘59, and Carol Copeland Sullivan ’55

Alex Gress

July 9, 2023, husband of Board Chair

Jennifer Daily Gress, father of Emily Gress ’23, and Natalie Gress ’26

Francis Haley

February 20, 2024, father of Bridget Haley ’13

Lucy Battel Hamilton ’51 July 19, 2023

Robie Heilbrun Harris ’58 January 6, 2024

Sally Stouten Hatch ’66

February 5, 2024, sister of Margaret T. Stouten ’70

Joy Field Herrick ’49 August 5, 2023

Barbara G. Howland ’65

July 15, 2023, sister of Joan G. Howland ’68 and Sally S. Howland ’72

Barbara Cowan Hyde ’43

May 23, 2023, aunt of A. Carla Walter Clark ’73, grandmother of Grace Hennigan Walker ’09

Phoebe V. James ’71 November 29, 2023

Sally Roesser Johnston ’52 October 25, 2023

Heather Moden Jones

October 9, 2023, former SEM Director of Development, aunt of Nancy ModenLambert ’81, Linda Moden Andrews ’82, and Karen Moden ’83, great-aunt of Abigail Smith ’24 and Olivia Smith ’24

Martha Ann Kelleran ’51

November 1, 2023, aunt of Jennifer Kelleran Biggane ’86

Patricia McCarthy Kennedy ’49 September 19, 2023

Donna Williams Klopfer

February 19, 2023, sister-in-law of Sidonie “Suggie” Williams ’51

Mary Ann Kresse

June 6, 2023, mother of Claire Kresse White ’87, grandmother of Lucy White ’27 and Samantha White ’27

Dolly Ladds

April 26, 2023, mother of Head of School

Helen L. Marlette and Julia Ladds Clauss ’75*, grandmother of Elizabeth Marlette ’13

Eva Potter Lee ’46

October 10, 2023

Judy Jack Lewis

February 15, 2024, mother of Caroline Lewis Fridmar ’03

Rosemary Markus

April 23, 2023, mother of Jennifer A. Markus ’83 and Elizabeth C. Markus ’85

Lewis McCauley

August 8, 2023, husband of Harriet Knapp McCauley ’50, grandfather of Alexandra Burger ’08

Louise House McClive ’49

March 11, 2024, sister of Marjorie House Keller ’54, cousin of Evelyn Lipp Harman ’61 and Anne Lipp Frank ’63

Elaine Gunner McClory ’70

September 24, 2023, sister of Nanci Gunner Heussler ’74

Lynn Ross McFarlane ’56

June 18, 2023, sister of Joan Ross ’50 and Mary Ross Rice ’52

Marion Morey Meenan ’60

October 9, 2023, sister of Susie Morey Harries ’63

Richard J. Melzer

March 1, 2023, husband of Ethel Roblin Melzer ’50, father of Marcia Melzer Wilf ’71

In Memoriam

Richard Mitchell

December 12, 2023, husband of Maureen Hays-Mitchell ’74, son-in-law of Mary Rose Hennessy Hays ‘44, brother-in-law of Judith Hays Benedict ’79

Lisa Mitchell-White ’81 April 9, 2023, mother of Jordan A. Mitchell ’09

Martje More

August 21, 2023, mother of Rick More and mother-in-law of Ann Goldman More ’79

Kenneth Niswander

September 21, 2023, father of Life Trustee Phil Niswander, grandfather of Lisa Niswander Peterson ’03, Katherine Niswander ’05, and Grace Niswander ’10

Edward P. “Ned” O’Brien

February 26, 2023, grandfather of Ava Rosputini ’23

Frances O’Leary O’Neil ’51 July 14, 2023

Alma Chapin Owen ’48

July 2, 2023, mother of Jennifer Owen Adsit ’72, sister-in-law of Joan Rieckelman Strachan ’51

Jane L. Ruslander ’49 March 6, 2024

Jill Hahn Russo ’50 September 15, 2023

Miriam Sapowitch Schiff ’47 September 20, 2023, aunt of Kathy Glauber Goodwin ’69

Merry Lou Metzger Scothon ’58

May 22, 2023, cousin of Sarah Mitchell Carr ’60

Barbara Trubee Seeger ’43

January 26, 2023. mother of Kathleen E. Seeger ’70, and Trudie L. Seeger ’74

Ellen Platt Shapiro ’70

January 29, 2023

Alice Murray Smith ’47

January 31, 2024

Ellen Huber Smith ’58

August 31, 2023, sister of Katherine Huber Goddard ’55 and Margaret Huber Forman ’57

Vanette Townsend Smith ’46

February 3, 2023

Coralie DeBus Stevenson ’60 March 20, 2023

Susan Hanrahan Turben ’54

November 6, 2023, sister of Mary Hanrahan Berlow ’57, cousin of Bettina Tubbs-Oberheide ’64 and Amanda Tubbs Thompson ’66

Jane Turner

April 8, 2024, former SEM math faculty

Nancy Emerson Viele ’43

August 1, 2023, mother of Catherine Viele ’69, Lucy Viele ’71, and Amy Viele ’73

Wendy Cowan Wald ’62

December 16, 2023

Sally Walsh

July 9, 2023, mother of Demi Walsh Ayres ’65, sister-in-law of Geraldine Walsh Clauss ’47, aunt of Grace Walsh Munschauer ’74

Valerie S. Weiss ’78

February 11, 2024, sister of Elizabeth Weiss Lifshitz ’76

Janet Katz Wisbaum ’58

August 16, 2023, sister of Nancy Jo Katz Fienberg ’65 and Susan Katz Diner ’63, sister-in-law of Kim and Clark Trow, aunt of Leah Trow ’15

Althea Briggs Friedman ’55

an esteemed alumna of SEM, left an indelible mark through a remarkable bequest gift to the institution. During her tenure at SEM, Althea embodied the spirit of involvement and excellence across many facets of school life, with a particular focus on her passion for music. She dedicated herself to numerous activities, including participation in the Glee Club, Semachords, and the Community Chest Song Committee.

Gifts that can provide income during your lifetime

Althea’s contributions extended beyond the arts; she also found joy in athletics and a deep connection with animals. Her participation in the SEM swim team, soccer, and basketball showcased her enthusiasm for sports. Additionally, her involvement in the French Club highlighted her appreciation for cultural exploration and language learning. Outside of school, Althea was devoted to horseback riding, and as she grew older, she developed a profound admiration for service dogs and their support for people in need. Althea’s legacy at SEM is not only defined by her active involvement but also by her enduring commitment to the school’s future. Through her generous bequest, she ensured that her alma mater continues to thrive and inspire future generations of students, leaving a lasting impact on the 205 Bidwell community.

Create Your Legacy

Since the very beginning, the vision of Buffalo Seminary has been to empower young women by providing an excellent learning environment. Planned gifts from SEM’s graduates and friends continue to provide the financial support to realize this vision.

Gifts that yield immediate benefits

Considering a planned gift to SEM?

Establish a Charitable Gift Annuity or a Charitable Remainder Trust to provide for a steady stream of lifetime income for you and an ultimate gift for SEM.

Outright Gifts, Securities, Property

Gifts that sustain SEM in the future

Last Will and Testament, Life Insurance, Retirement Accounts

We look forward to welcoming you to the Elm Legacy Society

Please contact Director of Development Leah Kimmet, lkimmet@buffaloseminary.org.

DONORS LEAD THE WAY

Since we opened our doors in 1851, financial contributions have always been vital to the continuing success of the school. You can put a student in a SEM classroom who otherwise would not be able to attend. A gift to SEM will have an immediate impact on a student’s life.

Annual Giving

By making a gift, you take a leading role in providing stellar learning opportunities for future influencers, humanitarians, and explorers. Annual Fund dollars go to work immediately, addressing our most pressing needs and seizing exciting opportunities for our students.

The Founders’ Society

The Founders’ Society is a special set of donors who give at least $1,000 to the Annual Fund each year. This elite group of alumnae, parents, friends, and faculty members takes an interest in the future of our girls, and makes a significant investment in their outcomes.

Leadership Reunion Giving

SEM has an established tradition of going above and beyond when celebrating class reunions every five years. In fact, many alumnae are proud to join the Reunion Club by giving an additional 50%-100% above their typical annual gift. Each year, alumnae celebrating reunion years have a tremendous impact on the Annual Fund.

YOUR SUPPORT

Please contact Director of Development Leah Kimmet, lkimmet@buffaloseminary.org, for more information on donating.

Endowed Support

A healthy endowment is critical for the long-term viability of Buffalo Seminary. An endowed gift is invested and grows over time, while SEM uses the investment income to support student scholarships, building maintenance, equipment replacement, or any other project that requires long-term funding. Endowed gifts allow donors to support SEM in perpetuity.

Current Use Scholarships

Some donors prefer to make a large, short-term impact by covering half or all of a student’s tuition at SEM. These generous donors agree to provide the same level of support to their student(s) throughout their career at SEM. A current use scholarship helps bright and deserving girls access a top-notch education, and allows donors to witness the impact of their very special gift first-hand!

Elm Legacy Society

Planning ahead for a future gift allows you to achieve your charitable goals and can help provide a financially secure future for you, your loved ones, and Buffalo Seminary. When you make a planned gift to SEM, include SEM in your will, or name SEM as a beneficiary of your retirement plan, you become a member of the Elm Legacy Society.

A TRIBUTE TO HELEN LADDS MARLETTE

by Elizabeth Roach, Lifelong Friend and SEM Board Member

It is an exciting time for the entire SEM family as we celebrate the extraordinary service and leadership of Helen Marlette and welcome Blair Parker and her family into the SEM community.

It has been such a privilege to serve on the board of trustees for the past eight years, mostly because it has given me the opportunity to reconnect with Helen and to witness her commitment to SEM and her vision and enactment of a school that supports, nurtures, nourishes, and challenges every student. She has cultivated an extraordinary faculty, and with their inspiration and care, students emerge from their years at SEM with confidence, curiosity, and a determination to make a difference in the world.

Because of Helen’s leadership, students and teachers alike have the opportunity to question and learn, connect, laugh, and find joy in and outside the classroom, grow, discover, and flourish. Helen takes care of people; she creates community; she cares about the humanity of everyone inside 205 Bidwell Parkway.

The student president at SEM this year, Faith Wendel, captures Helen beautifully:

The Head of School for my four years at Buffalo Seminary, Mrs. Marlette, is a pillar of SEM. Whether she’s playing badminton with a student in an intramural tournament or she’s welcoming in the new school year at morning meeting or she’s sitting at her desk, with the door open, talking to students walking past, Mrs. Marlette positively represents the essence of possibly our favorite word at

SEM, community. She always makes a point to learn her students’ names, which can make all students feel as though they are seen and appreciated. My freshman year, when I was choosing the sport I’d continue to play for all four years, I didn’t realize Mrs. Marlette also had an affinity for golf. She’d oftentimes show up to our matches to cheer us on and offer some meaningful advice. I know for a fact that all of our school’s sports teams greatly value the time she dedicates to attending games and matches.

At the beginning of this year, she attended our senior trip to Holiday Valley’s Sky High Adventure Park, braving the obstacles and zip lines, proving even further that she’s a fearless leader, on and off the ropes course. I’m forever grateful for Mrs. Marlette’s kindness and respected presence.

As Faith attests, Helen has touched the lives of so many students who then go out into the world to spread the magic of SEM.

Likewise, Dean of Teaching and Learning, Amanda Melsby, articulates the care Helen takes with each faculty member as she builds community:

When I interviewed for the Dean of Teaching and Learning position I knew that in addition to being part of SEM, I wanted to work with Helen. Her confidence, passion, and trust in her faculty create a unique environment where faculty and students thrive. Her willingness to say yes to new programs and innovative practices that are grounded in SEM’s mission allows the faculty

to take pedagogical risks in the classroom and continually expand their repertoire of instructional practices. She balances that with laser focus on the well being of her faculty and students and continually reminds us all to find the fun and joy in what we do.

We know, Helen, that the very busy life of a head of school provides little time to contemplate the magnitude and significance of all you have shared with this school. Now, and in coming years, we want you to know that you have changed lives, deepened the human excellence of the school, guided us through the manifold complexities of the pandemic, and assured that our future will be bright and promising.

It’s a testament to good schools and strong leadership when a Head of School transition is smooth and seamless. Helen and Blair have exemplified this strength in the way that they have been working together, communicating openly, and collaborating in generous and gracious ways. They do this because they believe in one another and love SEM.

We express our gratitude to you, Helen, for your dedication to and love of SEM, for your steady and unflappable leadership, for your understanding of the power of education, for your care of people and community. We know that you are looking forward to your well-deserved retirement so that you can spend more time with Peter, your children and grandchildren, and on the golf course!

REFLECTIONS

In my 43 year career in education, it was at SEM that I found a culture in which I could really hit my stride. The values at the heart of this community, that are embodied by everyone within it, build resilience, compassion, and authenticity. SEM gave me the freedom to use my prior experience and instincts, ask for help, make mistakes, learn and move on; practices we strive to model for our students and each other. This culture, our mission, and the inherent strengths of girls’ education made for an unparalleled last 17 years.

Like other independent schools, SEM is governed by a Board of Trustees who oversee, support, and advise the Head of School. It has been an honor to work with a Board like SEM’s. The Board of Trustees at SEM is and has been nothing but supportive, dedicated, and a trusted group of advisors for me when I needed perspective.

The support from the Board, when SEM and many other all-girl schools began addressing the role of gender and how to support our students in this evolving landscape, was exceptional. We participated in thoughtful research with the National Association of Girls’ Schools, we engaged leading medical professionals in WNY to advise us, and we invited parents and our alumnae to share their thoughts. At the center of this work was the goal to care for our students and the school. The policy created provides the framework and the flexibility to guide our students and school in this continuously evolving discussion.

Finally, COVID-19 presented challenges never imagined, and the SEM Board simply asked, “how can we help?” Thank you. You placed your trust in the faculty and administration to operate the school and to keep our community healthy and engaged academically. Your support and encouragement gave us the confidence and incentive to keep working hard. Fortunately, SEM’s already forward-thinking commitment to technology, our creativity and flexibility, and our commitment to wellness allowed SEM to respond and rebound from those tough years.

My gratitude to the faculty and administrative team cannot adequately be expressed. You are

the most caring, hard-working group of people with whom I have had the privilege of engaging professionally. As I reflect on my time at SEM, I wish I could have done more to support you. You are the heart and soul of the school. We have crucial decisions facing independent schools and how we value education in this country; how do we find a way to adequately compensate our teachers for everything they bring to our schools? It is not an easily solved question but deserves my full attention now and that of the entire community going forward.

To my administrative team, no one knows how valuable each of you is to keep the moving parts of a small but enormously busy school running as smoothly as it does. Your ability to anticipate the crunch times and simply put aside your work and pitch in to support a colleague is nothing like I have seen before. Ego took a back seat as we pulled together through extraordinary times. Your focus on what was best for the students and how to make it happen never wavered. We got it right most of the time, but when we missed the mark, we offered each other grace and made notes to do things differently next time. The funny thing about working in a school is - there are very few times that follow precedent, especially in a school like SEM where we value each person and have the freedom to support their individuality.

It has been the students at SEM who have amazed me the most. Routine and predictability may be preferred for some, but it is the unexpected that keeps me going. From fantastic morning meeting performances to the small acts of concern and kindness exhibited in our hallways, to the moments when you were not at your best; I loved learning from you and trying to create ways for you to grow and shine. The greatest moments are when you emerge with confidence to share with the SEM community your passions and interests. I encourage you to continue developing your interests and speaking up for the things in which you believe. As I have heard former Board Chair and SEM parent, Kate Bowen Smith ‘92 say, “what the world needs now is more SEM girls,” and I could not agree more. I hope we have created a place where you feel challenged and supported enough to speak your mind, nurture your passions, and develop friendships and a connection to SEM that will sustain you throughout your life.

For 17 years SEM has been much more than a place of work. It is the place that inspired me and helped me truly be myself. I started under the direction of newly appointed Head, Jody Douglass, and I could ask for no better mentor. She gave me latitude but did not allow me to make a big mistake. Jody granted me the opportunity to collaborate with her to develop a new, small residential program, and the vision to see it grow. Her humor and common sense were two traits I have tried to emulate throughout my time at SEM. Jody allowed me to wear many different hats and learn about the intricacies of managing a school. I loved the work and realized that I like the responsibility that comes with it. It was with gratitude and excitement that I accepted the position as Head of School and worked with Jody during her final year to prepare for my new role. Little did I know that I was preparing for the most transformative years of my professional and personal life.

In my eight years in this position, my family enjoyed graduations, marriages, grandchildren, new jobs, relocations, and engagements. We grieved the loss of family members who each had a profound impact on our lives, and we faced a health challenge together. In addition, the entire world endured a pandemic. There was nothing routine or predictable about the outside world during my time as Head of School, but I could always count on the support and grounding of the SEM community. I learned to value constancy and predictability in the realm of my personal and professional life. Our values to care for one another, to be honest and respectful, and to remain focused on our work of educating our students to be scholars with the confidence to be themselves sustained and guided me.

It is with great excitement, and new appreciation for both the predictable and unpredictable, that I move on from SEM. I hope the lessons I learned have made me a better partner, parent, colleague, and leader. I wish the same for

our next Head of School, and my new friend, Blair Parker. As is in keeping with the SEM way, the appointment of Blair was thoughtful and inclusive. SEM is fortunate that she recognizes the parts of SEM that make it an extraordinary opportunity for her and her family. Our traditions and values provide clear direction. Our mission calls for innovation and change. There is a willingness of the entire SEM community to pull together in times of support and celebration. These characteristics are not found in all schools. When I learned of Blair’s appointment, I knew I could move on with confidence because as many have heard me say, Blair understands SEM in her heart and that means the school is in good hands.

For this year’s Spring Play, SEM students put on a production of Night Night, Roger Roger, the themes of which provide an excellent conclusion for these reflections: it’s important to see things from different perspectives, honor our dreams, and always include a good dose of humor. I know that SEM will continue to provide all of this and more for years to come.

Helen Ladds Marlette

Dress Like Mrs. Marlette Day, Spring Spirit Week 2024

205 Bidwell Parkway Buffalo, NY 14222-1295