Brave hearts. Bold learning. Meaningful connections.
Vue du Cœur THE MAGAZINE OF SACRED HEART ACADEMY BRYN MAWR | SUMMER 2021
2021 SHA Olympics – Congé
TABLE OF CONTENTS 2 Building and Celebrating Community! 4 Go Heart! Athletics Highlights 6 Community Beyond Campus: We’re Part of Something Larger 8 Re-visioning of the Sacred Heart Goals and Criteria 9 Musical: Hug Me, Hug Me Not 10 Teaching and Learning 11 Teaching During a Pandemic: Points of Pride 12 Courage for the Journey: Strategic Long Range Plan 2020-2030 14 Class of 2021 Commencement 16 End-of-Year Awards 18 Alumnae Engagement 21 Alumnae Virtual Weekend 22 Alumnae News and Notes 25 Alumnae Profiles 28 Alumnae: Intellectual Values 29 In Memory COVER PHOTO: Lower School students delight in
being summoned to the dunk tank during Congé. Their assignment was to pitch a ball to dunk the Head of School, Miss Cryor!
Thank you Betsy and Mike Moore! SHA Faculty and Staff celebrated the retirement of SHA’s beloved Betsy and Mike Moore this past fall. Community members surprised Betsy and Mike at an outside gathering to thank them for their dedication to SHA. Betsy and Mike will always be part of the SHA family! We look forward to seeing them again soon.
Betsy and Mike Moore
From the HEAD OF SCHOOL Vue du Cœur Deirdre V. Cryor HEAD OF SCHOOL
Lisa Brairton MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS
Melodee Dill Stephens GRAPHIC DESIGN
Margaret Corcoran CONTRIBUTOR/EDITOR
Suzanne Santora Robinson ’76, P’06 ALUMNAE RELATIONS
Victor D’Ascenzo DEVELOPMENT
Tammy Hart Lauren O’Neill Deets ’95 ENROLLMENT Thank you to the SHA community for sharing your photography and news for this publication.
480 S. Bryn Mawr Ave. Bryn Mawr, PA 19010 610.527.3915 SHAbrynmawr.org Vue du Cœur is published for alumnae, parents and friends of Sacred Heart Academy Bryn Mawr. Send news, photos, classnotes and alumnae address changes to communications@ SHAbrynmawr.org or suzanne. robinson@SHAbrynmawr.org. Vue du Cœur welcomes your articles, news, and pictures. Items may be edited for length. SHA does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin, age, gender, religion, disability, or any other class protected by law in the administration of its educational policies, employment practices, admissions policies, scholarship, loan or financial programs, athletic and other school administered programs.
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A
s you will read in these pages of the Vue, it was a busy year at Sacred Heart Academy--and not just because we were experiencing a global pandemic. Yes, it was a year of restrictions, but it was also a year that SHA pulled together, found ways to support one another in spite of masks and distance, fully engaged in school activities, and even pulled off one awesome Congé. In the summer of 2020 we decided the goal we would focus on for the school year would be Goal V: A personal growth in an atmosphere of wise freedom. We chose to focus on this goal in particular for the criteria that challenges us to “grow in courage and confidence as (we) discover new abilities, cultivate strengths, learn from mistakes, develop empathy and exercise resilience in meeting challenges.” As we were facing the challenges of the pandemic and planning a safe return to campus, we were also deeply impacted by the national outcry against racism following the murder of George Floyd. As members of a Sacred Heart school community, we were all grateful for the guidance the Goals and Criteria provide for us. We came to campus in September and committed ourselves to protocols that would keep us safe and healthy. We also returned with a renewed commitment, as described in Goal IV, to be a community that “affirms all are created in the image and likeness of God, promotes the inherent dignity of the human person and strives for relationships characterized by inclusion and mutual respect.” As you will see throughout this issue, we enjoyed a wonderfully, successful year! Thanks to the dedication and attention of each member of this community, we were able to remain in-person and on-campus from September through June. We found ways to be together while still keeping the right distance; we managed our days while wearing our masks; and above all, we did it together as a community. Through our efforts in faculty professional development, in co-curricular activities that expanded our understanding of each other, with the creation of the Black Student Union, and with our work to be designated a “No Place for Hate” school, we began the important task of renewing and strengthening our commitment as a Sacred Heart school to justice, diversity and inclusion. And we will continue to construct school communities reflective of the attitudes of Christ’s Heart. Yes, it was a year full of challenges and difficulties, but it was also a year full of smiles and joy. What is a moment that I will take with me from this year? The cover picture of this magazine documents just that. During Congé I took leave of my senses and agreed to be on the dunk tank seat. The Lower School students were invited to come to the field and try to dunk Miss Cryor. While I would have loved not being dunked (!), I will never, ever forget the sun shining so brightly that day, the green grass of the field, the beautiful faces of all of our students sitting together on the field and the absolute joy of the Lower School students as they ran across the field eager to take their shot at dunking me. It might seem strange that I would choose this moment. Yes, they were coming to get me, but with those faces and that joy, who could possibly not smile and feel the love and happiness of that moment? Congé brought everyone together to play games, to laugh and share time together in the most joyous of ways. And when June came, and we joined together under the tent for Ring Mass, Prize Days and Graduation, happiness, smiles and joy emanated from everyone. At our final faculty meeting in June, I looked out at the faculty and staff seated together in the Dining Room for the first in-person faculty meeting in more than 12 months, I took a breath, said good morning, and the room erupted in a round of applause. Applause for a job well done. Applause for all this community accomplished. Applause for the work and strength of this community. And, as you read through this issue, I think you will join in with applause. Sincerely, Deirdre V. Cryor Head of School SACRED HEART ACADEMY BRYN MAWR 1
Building & Celebrating Community HEARTS GROWING IN WISDOM AND LOVE SCHOOL THEME (2020-21)
“ Sacred Heart Academy (SHA) recognizes and affirms each student’s unique gifts, life experiences and aspirations, and encourages her to speak courageously in her own voice in an intellectually safe atmosphere. Each student cultivates and shares her talents with the assurance that she is loved by God.” FROM THE VISION-FOR-IMPACT, COURAGE FOR THE JOURNEY, STRATEGIC LONG RANGE PLAN
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SACRED HEART ACADEMY BRYN MAWR 3
Athletics Highlights 2020-2021
GO HEART!
IN SEASONS FULL OF UPS AND DOWNS, STOPS AND STARTS, and much uncertainty, athletics played an important role in the life of many Sacred Heart students this year more than ever. But competing without fans, wearing masks, and facing scheduling restrictions didn’t stop the Lady Lions from having a banner year. In fact, two SHA teams brought home championship banners to Gormley Gymnasium in 2020-21.
IT’S A 5-PEAT FOR SHOOPS! In what is becoming a long-standing tradition, Sacred Heart basketball hoisted the District 1 AA Championship trophy yet again in 2021. After posting a 10-5 record during the regular season, SHA brought home its fifth straight District Champs banner in a lopsided victory over Dock Mennonite Academy. Dock had no answer for SHA’s crushing defense or a balanced offensive effort that featured scoring by eight players in the 47-11 victory. The win earned SHA an appearance in the PIAA state tournament for the fifth consecutive time under head coach Zach Shuler. Kathryn Gallagher ’22, who enjoyed a breakout year, led the way all season long. SHoops’ top scorer, Kathryn was recognized as the Main Line Times Athlete of the Week during the season and was later named the team’s MVP. Junior Ainsley Davis also played a key role in the Lady Lions success posting big numbers during the playoffs. Team captain Mary Lauren Franz ’21, along with fellow senior Annie DeFrancesco, never lost a district title game in their four years with SHoops. “I am really proud of how hard the team played all year long in masks, never once complaining,” said Mr. Shuler. “Coach (Brent) Schulte and I asked the players to compete in every drill in practice and every play in each game and their determination and effort paid off. So happy to see so many players step up in key moments all season long. I am grateful to both ML and Annie for their leadership as seniors, and I am looking forward to what this team can do next season!”
SHVB TAKES UNPRECEDENTED PROGRAM STEP After convincingly winning their fourth straight District 1 A Championship, the SHA volleyball team went on a storied playoff run in the fall of 2020, advancing to the semifinals of the PIAA Single A State Championship, a first in program history. Despite having only one senior starter (Erin Corcoran ’21, team MVP and Main Line Times Athlete of the Week) and losing two starters to injury, the youthful SHVB team was not to be denied. They plowed through the District Championship game, defeating Plumstead Christian handily in three sets. For Erin, all she has known is district titles, the first player in school history to win one every year. The team proved their championship mettle in the state tournament, winning a grueling five-set match against an undefeated Mount Calvary Christian in the PIAA state quarterfinals. The win advanced them to the semifinals of the state championship where they took perennial powerhouse Marian Catholic to five sets before losing in a heartbreaking ending. “It was an incredible match,” noted head coach Sam Moyerman. “We came up just two points short of going to the state finals. And that is a testament to how hard these girls worked all year. Our team captains, Erin and Bella (O’Toole ’22), were great leaders and set the tone for our younger players. We had a season that none of these players will ever forget. They never gave up and left it all out on the floor. They played their hearts out. I couldn’t be more proud of them.”
Read more athletics news from the SHA Lady Lions at: shabrynmawr.org/athletics/athetics-news-details 4 Vue du Cœur SUMMER 2021
OH WHAT A YEAR! FIELD HOCKEY Mary Lauren Franz ’21 was named to the All-Main Line First Team, while teammates Abby Braun ’22 (Second Team), Caroline Fleming ’22 (Honorable Mention) and Meilyn Frank ’22 (Honorable Mention) also earned All-Main Line Honors. Mary Lauren, who was also an AACA All-Star, will continue her playing career at Ursinus College. TENNIS Natasha Szipszky ’21 earned a spot on the Catholic Academies All-Star Singles Team for the second time and landed on the All-Main Line girls' second tennis team for singles, a list that included outstanding tennis players from 19 high schools. GOLF All four seniors played in the AACA Championships for the fourth consecutive year. Natalie Algeo ’21, a two-year team captain, was named team MVP for the second time. CROSS COUNTRY Freshman runner Makenzie Fisher ’24 had a tremendous start to her high school career and was named MVP for the season. VOLLEYBALL For the first time in the history of SHA's volleyball program, three players were named to the Pennsylvania All-State Team. Erin Corcoran ’21, Bella O’Toole ’22 and Liz Cuskey ’23 all earned spots on the list. Erin, an All-State selection in 2019 as well, was also named First Team All-District, First Team All-Main Line, and an AACA All Star, the first volleyballer in school history to make all four lists. Erin was also inducted into SHA’s Red and White Athletic Club.
ATHLETICS AT A GLANCE Nearly 80% of our students participate in athletics. SHA offers 12 sports to Middle and Upper School students. SHA is a member of the Athletic Association of the Catholic Academies (AACA), which is governed by the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA). In 2021, Sacred Heart athletes were recognized with honors for their outstanding seasons: 3 All-State 4 All-District 10 AACA All-Stars 3 All-Delco 15 All-Main Line 2 Main Line Times Athletes of the Week
BASKETBALL SHoops standouts Ainsley Davis ’22 and Kathryn Gallagher ’22, who were SHA's top scorers this season, were both named to the All-Main Line First Team, while landing on the All-Delco Honorable Mention team. Mary Lauren Franz ’21, who led the team in steals and assists, was selected for the All-Main Line second team and made the All-Delco Honorable Mention list. CREW Jacky Leigh ’22 had a big day at the City Championships in May, winning a first place medal in the novice single boat category. Tierney Pegg ’21 and Kathryn Gleeson ’21 -- the sole seniors on this year’s crew team -- both enjoyed successful seasons after great careers at SHA. Tierney, who was named team MVP, will continue her crew career at Division 1 LaSalle University. LACROSSE Aubrey Conners ’21, was selected to the AACA and an All-Delco team and was also the MVP of this year’s squad. Aubrey will continue her playing career in college at Clark University. TRACK Great performances abounded by SHA track stars at the AACA Track Championship. Aly Albanese ’23, (also selected as an AACA All-Star and an All-Delco) won a second-place medal for the high jump, while Makenzie Fisher ’24 and Kathryn Gallagher ’22 captured ribbons in the 1600M and 400M runs respectively. The trio also earned a trip to the PIAA District 1 Track & Field Championships where Aly leapt her way to a silver medal in the high jump, Kathryn won bronze medals in both the 400M and 200M races, and Makenzie brought home a bronze medal in the 1600M. SACRED HEART ACADEMY BRYN MAWR 5
Community Beyond Campus
WE’RE PART OF SOMETHING LARGER As a Sacred Heart School, SHA Bryn Mawr is a proud member of our International Network of Sacred Heart Schools. We are connected to 25 Network Schools in the United States and Canada. We share a common heritage and mission with over 150 Sacred Heart schools in 41 countries. SHA Bryn Mawr values this extension of our Bryn Mawr campus. Although in-person connections through exchange, summer service, and Network conferences were not possible this year, our student community not only remained connected with the Network, but also established new connections.
Members of the Sacred Heart Academy Virtual Dialogue Group proudly display their SHA Network T-shirts.
Network Summer Service 2020 By Kelly Weber
In the Network of Sacred Heart Schools, summer usually provides an opportunity for students from different schools to engage in service and advocacy together through Network Summer Service programs. During summer 2020, these programs shifted to a virtual platform and focused on learning and awareness. Jocelyn Moehrle ’23 participated in The Juvenile Justice Project, which provided a perspective of the experience of a teenager in our nation’s criminal justice system. Students looked at different support structures that work to help young people who are at risk for a variety of reasons (prevention programs, alternative high schools, etc.) and met with a variety of people including advocates for juvenile justice, judges, prosecutors, public defenders, social workers, educators, and teenagers who have been in the justice system.
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Emily Hart ’23 and Violet Randle ’21 participated in a new program called Socially Aware and Empathetic Thinking. In the week-long experience, students deepened their skills in being informed young people through a variety of activities. Students examined their identities, built critical consciousness around social issues such as immigration, and brainstormed ways to make positive changes in their communities. In summer 2021, the Network programs remain virtual with three students scheduled to participate, two in The Juvenile Justice Project and one in Hearts Open to Inclusion, which will educate participants to the unique challenges that face individuals who have intellectual and developmental disabilities/differences, to engage students in opportunities to meet and learn from people who have disabilities, and to propose ways of building relationships with, and advocating for, people in this population.
“ Independent but never isolated, every Sacred Heart school needs to feel the strength of belonging to a larger whole, of sharing principles, broad purposes, hopes and ambitions.” PREAMBLE TO THE GOALS AND CRITERIA, 1975
SophieConnect Founded on the values, traditions and high standards of a faith-based Sacred Heart education, the mission of SophieConnect is centered on a philosophy with respect for intellectual values, social awareness that impels to action, community-building and personal growth. This year students from Bryn Mawr took the following SophieConnect courses: • AP Psychology (6) • Financial Literacy (4) • Honors Latin IV (1) • Intro to Neuroscience (1) • Nutrition & Wellness (1)
SACRED HEART TRADITIONS Sacred Heart Academy traditions prevailed this year – from Mater’s Feast Day, Espacio, First Friday Liturgies (live streamed), to this year’s Olympic Themed Congé. SHA students enthusiastically participated in each and every tradition – many of which we share with our Network Schools. No one will forget the dunk tank at the Congé and the brave teachers who stepped up to be dunked, including our Head of School, Miss Cryor! Ring Day was a little bit later in the calendar than usual, but the Class of 2022 received their class rings in a beautiful mass and ceremony under the tent in June. And, the Class of 2021 celebrated their graduation just a few days later, at a beautiful ceremony, under the same tent.
“ I am so proud of what the Network Club has become. The Network has been one of my favorite things about Sacred Heart. I have loved participating in Network activities, and I am so excited to create new experiences for myself and others. I have enjoyed getting to work with fellow students who share my love of the Network and am so excited to see where the club will go!” EMILY HART ’23
Network Club By Emily Hart ’23
Formed in 2020, the Network Club provides students with a way to interact with the Sacred Heart Network as a community and bridge new connections among schools. As of right now, the club is a group of Upper School students and is facilitated by the Director of Academics Dr. Cara Saraco. Currently in the formation phase, the club was able to accomplish a lot during its bi-monthly meetings. By using our existing connections with Network Schools, we were able to reach out and show our interest in forming new relationships. One such connection gave the club the ability to exchange video tours of our campus with The Rosary Sacred Heart School in New Orleans. In addition, the club was also given the opportunity to attend Zoom meetings with international Sacred Heart students to do various activities such as cooking tutorials and language practice.
Sacred Heart Network Virtual Dialogue Exchange By Kelly Weber
Sacred Heart Academy was pleased to join in a dialogue program this year with other Sacred Heart schools entitled, Solidarity and Sustainability. SHA has been deeply involved with dialogue training for the past five years, having created a SHA program called Courageous Conversations. With the Sacred Heart Goals and Criteria as the guide, the Sacred Heart Network Virtual Dialogue Exchange delivers programming centered around equity, open communication, and the building of community. A different Network school led each monthly session with topics including solidarity, service, racism, and mental health. SHA Bryn Mawr facilitated the April session with the topic of environmental sustainability in local and global contexts. The students who participated included Lucy Day ’22, Regan Dougherty ’23, Caroline Fleming ’22, Emily Hart ’23, Ciani May ’21, and Kiley Mullen ’22. Each of these students previously participated in dialogue programming or workshops through SHA or the Network. Upper School teachers Kerri Schuster and Kelly Weber moderate the program.
NEW! GLOBAL CITIZENSHIP COURSE The New Global Citizen course was introduced this year to 5th and 6th grade students and was taught by Mrs. Anna Mae Gill. This course was designed to cultivate global citizenship by strengthening the students’ sense of social responsibility, civic engagement and social awareness in the world. Throughout the course, students were challenged to explore their own values and how they relate to creating peace and unity within communities and work towards the same in the global community.
SACRED HEART ACADEMY BRYN MAWR 7
Re-visioning of the Sacred Heart GOALS AND CRITERIA FAITH INTELLECT SERVICE COMMUNITY GROWTH
“ We believe the 2020 Goals and Criteria effectively frame the vision of Sacred Heart education that will serve our students, our faculties, our families, and our communities for the next fifteen years.” SOCIETY OF THE SACRED HEART, UNITED STATES / CANADA
SUPPORTING OUR MISSION AND PRINCIPLES
S
chools of the Sacred Heart share in the educational mission of the Society of the Sacred Heart as articulated in the Goals and Criteria. The Goals and Criteria connect Sacred Heart educators and the Society of the Sacred Heart and play a fundamental role in supporting the mission and principles at the heart of a Sacred Heart Education. The re-visioning of the Goals and Criteria of Sacred Heart education was approved after two years of work with our 25 Network schools in the US and Canada, the Religious of the Sacred Heart, Boards of Trustees and various other constituencies. We are grateful to the dedicated members of SHCOG (Sacred Heart Commission on Goals), led by the Society of the Sacred Heart RSCJ across Canada and the United States. In their announcement letter, the Society says, “We recognize in these Goals and their Criteria Sophie's charism, the spirit of the Society and our philosophy of education. We also recognize an awareness of the world's needs and our role as educators to enable critical analysis and informed service.” Sacred Heart Academy Bryn Mawr is so grateful to be "part of something larger" and share these guiding principles as we work to educate our students to be their best for the world. Thank you to the SHA Bryn Mawr committee members for your leadership on this important project for our school and our Network:
Deirdre Cryor Sharon Ackerley Anna Gill Melanie McMenamin ’93, P’26 (Trustee) Kelly Weber
Goal 1
Schools of the Sacred Heart commit themselves to educate to a personal and active faith in God.
Goal 2
Schools of the Sacred Heart commit themselves to educate to a deep respect for intellectual values.
Goal 3
Schools of the Sacred Heart commit themselves to educate to a social awareness which impels to action.
Goal 4
Schools of the Sacred Heart commit themselves to educate to the building of community as a Christian value.
Goal 5
Schools of the Sacred Heart commit themselves to educate to personal growth in an atmosphere of wise freedom.
We’re part of something larger. #WeAreSacredHeart Visit shabrynmawr.org/about-sha/mission-goals-criteria for the full listing of the Goals and Criteria 8 Vue du Cœur SUMMER 2021
Directed by Carolyn Curran Slota ’81
Hug Me, Hug Me Not
SHA Musical 2021
A SOCIALLY DISTANT REVUE
SACRED HEART ACADEMY BRYN MAWR 9
Teaching AND LEARNING Pathway One of the Strategic Long Range Plan focuses on Sacred Heart Academy’s innovative educational environment and pedagogical approach. Faculty are engaged in dynamic professional development and innovative teaching addresses student growth.
No Place for Hate (NPFH) committee: Deirdre Cryor Kelly Weber Ashley Fullen Lauren Horowitz Kim Trinacria Tony Yoo Bridget Thompson ’02, P’33 Margie Corcoran P’16,’21,’24 Marian Rosario ’16 Mr. and Mrs Redmond P’24 Brianna Lubin ’21 Regan Dougherty ’23 Emily Shlegel ’22 Meilyn Frank ’22 MaryGrace Coyne ’26
Professional Development Faculty and staff continue to immerse themselves in professional development opportunities related to inclusivity and the role they play as adults working in education. Professional development opportunities our teachers engaged in during this year included:
Creating Equitable and Inclusive Climate This year, Sacred Heart Academy participated in the No Place for Hate initiative sponsored by the Anti-Defamation League earning designation as a No Place for Hate school. The committee worked on organizing a school framework for combating bias, bullying and hatred. This designation aligns with the school mission and Goals and Criteria of a Sacred Heart education. Sacred Heart Academy will continue to work on educating students on diversity, bias, social justice and inclusion through curricular and co-curricular activities.
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• DEI: Robin D’Angelo White Fragility webinar/small group discussions, reading Teaching While the World is on Fire • DEI: ADL workshop, anti-bias training • DEI: Leadership & Design Team: Workshop on handling political conversations in the classroom • DEI anti-bias training with Marian Rosario ’16 • DEI: presentation to the Board with Marian Rosario ’16 • DEI summer reading 2021 for all: Don't Look Away: Embracing Anti-Bias Classrooms, and subgroup for Pushout: The Criminalization of Black Girls in Schools. • Curriculum design and mapping: McTighe and Jacobs virtual workshops • Virtual teaching: Aviva Moore, Ed.D., specialist on virtual teaching and learning • Individual PD specific to faculty needs such as: National Council of Teachers of Math, National Council of Teachers of English, STEM, Wilson Reading, AP Institute, etc.
The following faculty and staff read and discussed the New York Times and USA Today bestseller, Me and White Supremacy: SUMMER 2020 Deirdre Cryor Lauren Deets ’95 Ashley Fullen Jeremy Fus Dorothy Sasso Nicole Scalfaro Brent Schulte Kerri Schuster Kim Trinacria Kelly Weber Morey Williams FALL 2020 Eileen Day Joanne Dougherty Kara Rufo ’05 Cara Saraco Catherine Scholl Zach Shuler Michelle Sheibley
TEACHING DURING A PANDEMIC
points of pride
The 2020-21 school year demanded teachers to be nothing short of courageous. Our Sacred Heart educators put their own fears aside and faced all that the pandemic presented. Masked up and distant, working in rooms that might not have originally been meant for teaching, our teachers delivered creative activities and innovative lessons. We asked our teachers to name what they are most proud of this year. Their responses, not surprisingly, focused on the students. While our teachers showed themselves to be heroic in their ability to be nimble, resilient and supportive, they attributed much of the success in the classroom to their students. Here are some of the comments we received:
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THIS YEAR AS A SACRED HEART EDUCATOR I AM MOST PROUD OF...
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My students who came to each class and were willing to learn despite adverse times.
Having the middle school students zoom with award winning author Beth Kephart, after they read The Great Upending for summer reading!
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Providing our students with some normalcy in a world of uncertainties. Students and teachers alike both showed up day in and day out to go about our lives the best we could.
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My students and my colleagues.
How the girls and my colleagues handled the adversity this past year.
Keeping our Goal III work alive through independent service learning projects from each of our students in the Upper School.
The Girls! In an unbelievably difficult school year, the girls made every effort to keep my class a fun and energetic place to be, learn, and create.
The unit I created on the biology of the coronavirus.
The girls for persevering and learning in this strange year of masks and not being able to sit together to collaborate or bond.
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How well our teachers adapted to a new schedule, a new technology platform and a a new way of thinking.
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Learning the technology needed for teaching some students virtually and others in class each and every day. Adapting to whatever demands each day brought.
I am proud that we kept the Social Justice book club going. I was also proud of the outdoor Open Mic. We’ve never missed a year since we started it! Finally, I was really proud of the NHS members for going above and beyond with their tutoring. It was challenging for teachers to find time to meet with students, and the tutors did a great job of helping beyond the school day.
Thank you Sacred Heart educators! SACRED HEART ACADEMY BRYN MAWR 11
bravely moving forward 12 Vue du Cœur SUMMER 2021
VISION-FOR-IMPACT
Strategic Long Range Plan 2020-2030
A
s we enter this next decade of the 21st century, we set forth this vision for each part of our school community: Sacred Heart Academy (SHA) recognizes and affirms each student’s unique gifts, life experiences and aspirations, and encourages her to speak courageously in her own voice in an intellectually safe atmosphere. Each student cultivates and shares her talents with the assurance that she is loved by God. The passionate, committed, talented faculty and staff are celebrated as the foundation of the SHA experience. A community of educators grounded in continued professional development, respectful communication, equity, personal and professional wellness, and an unwavering commitment to the Goals and Criteria of Sacred Heart Schools. Families at Sacred Heart Academy experience an inclusive, welcoming community where parents champion the value of the SHA experience for their daughters, and make vital contributions to the life and future of our school. Our Board models the highest standards of good governance assuring the technical, operational, and relational knowledge and skills needed to further our school’s mission and vision. Our school’s strong operating metrics and advancement achievements open new horizons for expanding impact and innovating programs. Alumnae are prepared to continue to live out the Goals and Criteria as engaged, moral, global citizens who love the world, cherish justice, and act with compassion. Our graduates are poised to make a positive difference in the communities in which they live and serve while maintaining robust connections to Sacred Heart Academy and the Sacred Heart Network. Finally, it is our collective vision that as we travel this journey, Sacred Heart Academy is recognized as the leading educational institution for young women and girls in the region and a signature member of the International Network of Sacred Heart schools animating St. Madeleine Sophie’s vision for Sacred Heart schools to make known the heart of Christ in the world. In community with other brave, creative, curious, spiritual young women and educators, our students build authentic relationships, forming close bonds through engagement in Sacred Heart traditions, community service, and Network collaboration. All constituencies – faculty, staff, students, administrators, parents, trustees and alumnae – strive to build and foster an inclusive and diverse community. Sacred Heart’s campus is refreshed and enhanced with spaces optimized for active-learning and community-building. Our campus intentionally extends beyond Bryn Mawr Avenue in partnership with Sacred Heart Network schools and other partner institutions.
“ Add to the benefit of an all-girls environment the Sacred Heart Goals and Criteria – and you’ve got an extraordinary school here.” DEIRDRE CRYOR, HEAD OF SCHOOL
SACRED HEART ACADEMY BRYN MAWR 13
Class of 2021 14 Vue du Cœur
SUMMER 2021
Commencement CLASS OF 2021 | THE ONE HUNDRED FIFTY-FIFTH ANNUAL
Natalie Lauren Algeo
Brianna Ingrid Lubin
HIGHEST HONORS, NHS
HIGHEST HONORS, NHS
Reghan Jane Bailey
Ciani Diara May
Zoë Claudia Bounds
HIGH HONORS, NHS
Emily Eileen Cecchine
Rachael Lynn Millay
HIGHEST HONORS, NHS
HIGH HONORS, NHS
Aubrey Elizabeth Conners
Elizabeth Kathleen Miller
Erin Margaret Corcoran
HIGHEST HONORS, NHS
HIGHEST HONORS, NHS
Murrin Frances Moffett
Sophia Lena D’Agosta
Claire Elizabeth Morse
Ann Blythe DeFrancesco HONORS, NHS
Katherine Jeanie Eicke
HONORS, NHS
Mary Elizabeth Palumbo HONORS
HIGH HONORS, NHS
Tierney Elizabeth Pegg
Gianna Grace Esposito
Angelina Avery Polaha
HIGH HONORS
Violet Marlow Randle
Lilith Maeve Flanagan
Bianca LuzSelenia Rodriguez
HONORS
HIGH HONORS, NHS
Mary Lauren Cecilia Franz Eman Ghanem
Dominique Giovannina Scirrotto
Kathryn Grace Gleeson
Hailey Elizabeth Silvi
HIGH HONORS, NHS
Peyton Ashley Stull
Harmella Haile
HONORS
Natasha Ann Szipszky
“ One of the fundamental takeaways from time spent at Sacred Heart, which has been constantly reinforced by the influential women in my life, is that there are no limits to what a strong independent woman can achieve.” COMMENCEMENT SPEAKER: LAUREN TUCCI SHAFER ’01
CLASS OF 2021
HIGHEST HONORS, NHS
HONORS
College Matriculation
Sinéad Marie Lalor
Gabrielle Nicole Youngers
Boston College
Suffolk University
Claremont McKenna College
Syracuse University
Clark University
The Pennsylvania State University (2)
Emma Elizabeth Karn
Honors designation reflects cumulative GPA | NHS reflects National Honor Society membership
Cleveland Institute of Art Columbia University Delaware Valley University Elon University Florida Gulf Coast University Fordham University Immaculata University (2) La Salle University
The University of Tampa Thomas Jefferson University (2) University of Connecticut University of Pittsburgh University of South Carolina
Lafayette College
Ursinus College
Pepperdine University Saint Joseph’s University Rachael Lynn Millay ’21 Student Speaker
The University of Arizona
Tulane University
Howard University
Emma Elizabeth Karn ’21 Valedictorian
The University of Alabama
West Chester University of Pennsylvania (2)
Seton Hall University
SACRED HEART ACADEMY BRYN MAWR 15
End-of-Year AWARDS Senior Awards The Elizabeth Rexford Buckland ’57 Award Murrin Frances Moffett Mary Elizabeth Palumbo Peyton Ashley Stull The Sportsmanship Award Mary Lauren Cecilia Franz The Jeannine Broussard ’85 Effort Award Peyton Ashley Stull The Rev. Mother Heuisler, RSCJ Good Conduct Award Ciani Diara May The Dorothy Anne Leahy ’64 Award Kathryn Grace Gleeson Violet Marlow Randle The Mary Ellen Ryan Loyalty Award Ann Blythe DeFrancesco The Phi Beta Kappa Association Award Emma Elizabeth Karn The Saint Madeleine Sophie Barat Award Erin Margaret Corcoran The Saint Rose Philippine Duchesne Award Elizabeth Kathleen Miller The Janet Erskine Stuart Très Bien Award Emma Elizabeth Karn 2021 Sacred Heart Lifers: (left to right) Peyton Ashley Stull, Murrin Frances Moffett and Mary Elizabeth Palumbo
The Sacré Coeur Award Brianna Ingrid Lubin
Eighth Grade Liturgy Class of 2025
Eighth Grade Awards
Fourth Grade Awards
The Kim Maddox Memorial Award Katherine Dougherty
The Sarah Jane Gartland Award Sydney Watson
The Sacré Coeur Award Liora Corrilieus
The Sacré Coeur Award Devon Wagner
Katherine
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Liora
Sydney
Devon
Congratulations Class of 2021!
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Alumnae Engagement SHA CELEBRATIONS Sacred Heart Academy values the connection between our alumnae and current student body through the celebration of the many shared Sacred Heart traditions. In May and June we welcomed the following alumnae to address our students: Madeline Reynolds ’08 – National Honor Society, Marian Rosario ’16 – Junior Ring Mass and Ceremony, Princess Rahman ’18 – Alumnae Induction and Lauren Tucci Shafer ’01 – Class of 2021 Commencement.
Junior Ring Mass and Ceremony MARIAN ROSARIO ’16
Marian currently guides the BSU at Sacred Heart Academy. Aside from working with Sacred Heart, Marian is continuing her commitment to nonprofit work as she currently serves as an Academic Coordinator for Philadelphia Opportunities Industrialization Center, Inc. Marian graduated Summa Cum Laude from Hampton University with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology in 2020.
NHS Induction with Mrs. Kerri Schuster, US English Teacher
National Honor Society MADELINE REYNOLDS '08
Madeline is the Associate Director of the Honors Program at Villanova University. After graduating college, Madeline worked on the production end of Broadway, later pivoting to corporate fashion. She returned to Villanova in 2015 to work for the Honors Program, and most enjoys guiding students to find that which is true for themselves. She holds both her BA and MA from Villanova, is currently pursuing her MBA, and trained in Indonesia to become a certified yoga instructor. Madeline’s SHA days were filled with Student Council, trying to remember “Perfect” (Formal) Uniform Day, and being at the latter end of the alphabet for homeroom. Her SHA ring remains one of her most prized possessions.
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Alumnae Induction PRINCESS RAHMAN ’18
Princess is a junior and Ancient History major at the University of Pennsylvania and plans to pursue a medical degree, possibly in psychiatry. Through her academic work, and leadership and volunteer work, she has become passionate about access to healthy food as a social determinant of health. She is an urban farmer at The Sankofa Farm Community at Bartram's Garden and works to increase the sustainability and health of communities in Southwest Philadelphia. Princess gardens, grows, builds, and teaches as part of her work. She also founded her own YouTube Channel Grow Through It to raise awareness.
Commencement LAUREN TUCCI SHAFER ’01
Lauren is a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner at Nemours DuPont Pediatrics. She completed her undergraduate studies at Fordham University. After graduating, she decided on a career in nursing and graduated from an accelerated BSN program at Thomas Jefferson University. She holds a Masters in Nursing with a focus in Pediatric Primary Care also from Thomas Jefferson University. Lauren is the daughter of the late Elise Allan Tucci, a 1970 graduate of Sacred Heart who was a beloved Pre-K teacher at Sacred Heart for 22 years.
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Alumnae Engagement SHA EVENTS “ The thread that binds them together is their Sacred Heart education, and their loyalty to its mission.” ALUMNAE MISSION
Veterans Day Middle School Assembly Dale Mitchell Hobbs ’95 is a veteran of the Marine Corps and the Air Force. She is also an Operation Enduring Freedom veteran participating in the war in Afghanistan for a year. Currently, Dale is a first grade teacher in Columbia, MO. Katie Leardi Henslee ’08 joined the army as a Chemical Biological Radiological Nuclear specialist. She went to basic training at Fort Sill Oklahoma, advanced Individual training at Fort Leanordwood MO, and then headed to Korea for her first duty assignment. She was stationed there for a year, living on Yongson Army Base in Seoul. She then served at Fort Hood in Texas for almost three years. Katie is married to SSG Henslee, an infantryman in the army, and they are stationed at Fort Riley, Kansas. They have four children: Emma Kate, 7, Billy, 6 Tucker, 5 and Connor, 1. Madison Schnieder ’16 went to college at Saint Louis University and received her degree in Marketing. During college, she participated in the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps program and received her commission in May of 2020 as an Engineer Officer. She then spent seven months training as an engineer officer at Engineer Basic Officer Leaders Course. Following her graduation, she headed to her first duty station in South Korea. Madison recently became a platoon leader in a Multi-Role Bridge Company (MRBC) where she will be leading about 60 soldiers in bridging operations on the peninsula. Since being in the Army, Madison graduated from Air Assault school where she learned about sling load operations and how to repel (jumping out of a helicopter tied to a rope). She also earned the Gold standard for the German Armed Forces Military Proficiency Badge. Overall her path has been an exciting and unique one since graduating from SHA, and feels she wouldn’t be the strong female leader she is today had she not attended SHA, which taught her to be a powerful strong woman who is not afraid to take on any challenges!
Alumnae Service A global pandemic did not stop the SHA Alumnae Board from creating ways to perform service to benefit the local community. Stephanie Piraino-Davey ’02 organized a drive-by drop off of children’s clothing and accessories for Cradles to Crayons. It was a chilly November day that saw alumnae, parents, past-parents, and friends of SHA drive through the Lower Lot at SHA to donate much-needed supplies for children impacted by the shut down. The annual Souper Bowl Drive was once again a huge success. Laura Hibbs McKenizie ’06 did a terrific job keeping alumnae informed of the progress of the week-long drive with posts on both our alumnae Facebook page and Instagram accounts. A local Delaware County food bank was thrilled to receive 22 cases of hearty soups this winter.
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Middle School Day of Service Caroline Hahn ’14 spoke to the Middle School girls about her experience working with AmeriCorps. Caroline detailed her experience teaching and working with underprivileged students. She shared that while doing this work she was reminded of St. Madeleine Sophie’s quote “for one child.” She shared how much she learned from SHA about giving back. She said “for whom much is given, much is expected.” She fondly recalled her SHA experience and how the Goals shaped her as an adult.
Upper School Day of Service As part of the Upper School’s on-campus Day of Service, eight SHA alumnae joined us virtually for a service panel. Each individual shared how they have remained involved in service and advocacy in college. The panel of alumnae of current college students is involved in programs through their majors, through athletics, through campus ministry, through Greek life, and through campus life. They shared advice for our current students and demonstrated that work toward Goal 3 does not end after 12th grade, but continues to be a guiding force throughout life. As one alumna shared, “Don’t wait to make a difference! Just try something now!” Thanks to Brigid Benko ’19 (Seton Hall University), Bridget Bergan ’18 (University of Delaware), Sarah Conway ’19 (American University), Alexandra Coyle ’18 (Saint Joseph’s University), Grace Magnotta ’19 (Worcester Polytechnic Institute), Catherine Nguyen ’19 (Villanova University), Lyssa Shopa ’19 (Saint Joseph’s University), and Angela Winter ’19 (Drexel University) for sharing how Goal 3 remains an important part of their college experience.
SHA Alumnae Virtual Weekend
ALUMNAE VIRTUAL GATHERINGS The pandemic dictated that we come up with creative ways to stay in touch with our alumnae last year. We kicked off a series of virtual gatherings that began with a well attended Overbrook Tea. Next, regional gatherings were set up to connect alums from various parts of the country including CA, the Midwest and several different groups from the east coast. Finally, a Virtual Alumnae weekend took place in April. Thank you to all the attendees! We appreciated the chance to gather, share stories and check in with one another during this challenging year.
HEAD OF SCHOOL WELCOME ADDRESS Alumnae Board member and Heartcoming chair, Gina Bevlock Hagan ’09, shared that the Alumnae Virtual Weekend started off with a warm welcome from the Head of School, Deirdre Cryor ’84 (SR). Miss Cryor updated the community on how the school is thriving during the pandemic. “Students have been learning in person, on campus all year. Teachers have been going above and beyond to educate all their students. Despite the COVID-19 state guidelines, teacher’s and student’s talents are not masked, just their faces. In addition to the success in the classroom, the school’s sports teams have also been excelling. Sacred Heart athletic programs were able to compete in three seasons. A big congratulations to the volleyball team who are the PIAA District One Champions and PIAA State Semifinalists! The basketball team also claimed the District 1 AA Title for the fifth year in a row! Way to go SHoops! While things on campus may look a little different this year, the school is still honoring the special moments that we all hold near and dear to our hearts. Students will be able to experience field day, Prize Day, the Ring Mass and Ceremony, Prom, the spring musical and of course, Baccalaureate and graduation. Miss Cryor announced that the 2021 Heartcoming will be held in person on September 24 and 25. The Alumnae Board has already started planning and guarantees a weekend filled with fun activities. We look forward to seeing you!” – Deirdre Cryor, Head of School MIXOLOGY Kyle Darrow, General Manager of the recently renovated Towne House Restaurants in Media, hosted the Friday afternoon Happy Hour with a Mixology class. Participants learned about the art of making three cocktails; an Old Fashion, a daiquiri and a Moscow Mule. Several alums arrived prepared with all the ingredients needed to enjoy Happy Hour with old friends and classmates. APRIL SHOWERS BRING MAY FLOWERS…. Beloved SHA art teacher, Annette Markowtiz, mailed all participants the supplies to create beautiful floral watercolors during the Friday evening painting class. Apparently the group stayed online well after the class ended and enjoyed a lively conversation. SOUL CORE Saturday morning was a time for exercise and prayer. Nicky Verna P ’20, ’22 led a Sole Core class. Soul Core is a movement that pairs core strengthening, stretching and functional movement with prayer.Participants enjoyed a morning of relaxation and prayerful rejuvenation.
ZUMBA Tianna Jone’ 02 picked up the pace with a Zumba class for the alumnae. Tianna has started her own business Reckless Movement and was excited to share her talents with fellow alumnae. TEXTBREAKERS TRIVIA Bridget O’Donnell Thompson ’02, P’33, Alumnae Board President, made arrangements for alumnae to enjoy an evening of trivia featuring both SHA and pop culture themes. The hour-long session was filled with lots of laughter. A CROOKED TREE BOOK TALK Una Mannion, sister of Grainne Mannion Pergolini ’77, aunt of Julia Piergolini ’05 and Kate Pergolini Gionta ’11, led an interesting and lively discussion about her debut novel, A Crooked Tree, that was published this year by Harper Collins in the US and Faber & Faber in the UK and Ireland. She has won numerous prizes for her work including the Hennessy Emerging Poetry Award and the Doolin, Cúirt, Allingham, and Ambit short-story prizes. Her work has been published in numerous journals and anthologies. She edits The Cormorant, a broadsheet of poetry and prose. Una and husband Michael have three children and live in County Sligo, Ireland. A CONVERSATION WITH MALIKA ANDREWS, ESPN REPORTER The Alumnae Virtual Weekend wrapped up with a conversation led by ESPN and NBA reporter Malika Andrews. She shared her path from college at the University of Portland, OR ’17, where she was editor-in-chief of the university’s student newspaper, completing a fellowship at The New York Times, and reporting for The Chicago Tribune. Malika joined ESPN as an online NBA writer and the network’s only Black female NBA reporter. In 2020, she was a lead reporter inside the NBA’s Orlando, Florida Bubble – residing in the Bubble for over three months – and for the 2020 NBA Draft telecast. She appears frequently on shows like SportsCenter, Get Up, NBA Countdown, Around the Horn and The Jump. Malkia was named one of the Forbes 30 Under 30 in the sports industry for 2021, which cited her work to advocate internally at ESPN for more nuanced coverage of race and gender topics. We are hoping to convince her to join us on campus next year to talk to our students.
SACRED HEART ACADEMY BRYN MAWR 21
Alumnae News & Notes New additions to the SHA Family
Ryan Patrick, son of Joe and Catherine Hayden Fox ’07
Lilana Maria, daughter of Jim and Lauren Kinslow Finore ’02
Sloane, daughter of Vince and Elissa D’Orazio Fitzgerald ’05
Carter John Borys, son of Zack and Meredith Conboy Borys ’06
Abigail Margaret, daughter of Charlie and Alex Smith Wilkes ’07
Evan, son of Ray and Whitney Bordogna ’00
Colt Dixon, son of and Brian and Emma Dixon Stiffler ’07
Vivian daughter of Colleen Dempsey D’Elia, Colt son of Emma Dixon Stiffler ’07, Gabriel son of Ro Dixon Beggins ’05 and Ryan son of Cath Hayden Fox ’07
Sienna Marie, daughter of Jason and Kelly Bogue Huff ’02
Nathanial “Nate,” son of Sean and Kelly Slota Caulfield ’08 with his big brother
Emery Grace, daughter of John and Ashley Rufo Fitzgerald ’09
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1963 Helen Meek Horstmann ’63 joined the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society Board in September of 2016. She has served as the 2020 and 2021 Chair of the Flower Show and Events Committee and is the Co-Chair of the Development Committee.
1965 Mimi Daly Robinson ’65 After leaving Overbrook, Mimi graduated from Villanova University and enlisted in the Army in 1977. After two years she went to Officer Candidate School at Fort Benning, Georgia, and upon completion, was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Signal Corps. She then went to Fort Gordon, Georgia for the Signal Officer Basic Course. After completing the basic course in 1979, she was assigned to Camp Darby, Italy and led a unit incharge of satellite communication facility maintenance. Mimi fell in love with Italy and the Italian language. She transferred back to Fort Gordon in 1984 for advanced courses in communications and electronics. While at Fort Gordon she met her future husband and love of her life Stephen Robinson, and were married in Augusta, Georgia in August of 1985. Mimi then served at Fort Gordon for four years as a company commander and a brigade operations officer. After her stint at Fort Gordon, she went to the Defense Language Institute to be certified as an Italian linguist and was then assigned to Vicenza, Italy’s Southern European Task Force. After four years in Vicenza, she transferred to Armed Forces South in Naples, Italy and was in charge of coordinating joint NATO/ US military exercises. During this period she deployed to Bosnia as part of the UN Peacekeeping forces. Mimi retired from the Army as a Major in 1996. After retirement she moved to Tallahassee, FL and (continued on next page)
Three generations of SHA women celebrate at the Class of 2022 Ring Mass and Ceremony. Left to right: Helen Locke ’53, grandmother of Bailey Cavallaro ’22 (center), and her mother Mary Cavallaro ’86
Marianne McKeever ’06, Laura Hibbs McKenzie ’06, Cara Regan Burke ’06, Gina Russino Boland ’06, and Katie Robinson Hemcher ’06 celebrating as bridesmaids for the upcoming wedding of Cara Regan ’06.
Michael and Cara Regan Burke ’06
ORDER YOUR CUSTOM SHA BLANKET! QUANTITIES REMAINING ARE LIMITED! This custom cozy all-season blanket size is 80" x 62" and is $125. Perfect for that someone special in your SHA life! Birthday, Graduation, Christmas, Mother’s or Father’s Day! Grab this all-season blanket for your trips to the beach, a picnic in the park, or to keep warm around your fire pit while making s’mores (SHA Goal 6!). It’s like a hug from home for that special college student! To place an order, email Mrs. Cooney at gina.cooney@shabrynmawr.org.
SACRED HEART ACADEMY BRYN MAWR 23
went to work for the Department of Health’s Vaccine for Children’s Program. Mimi lost her sight in 2006 and retired from the Department of Health. After retirement she volunteered with a variety of organizations including: the Veteran’s Administration, Tallahassee Council of the Blind, Tallahassee Federation of the Blind, and the Blinded Veteran’s Association. Sadly, we just learned of Mimi’s passing; she died in 2018.
1969 Elosia Fernandez Bruner ’69 reports that she is the proud mother of 4 and grandmother of 5 who live all over, including Australia! She is grateful for her Sacred Heart education.
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2002
2011
2018
Tiana Jones ’02 is the founder of Reckless Movement. She has been working as a Group Fitness Instructor since 2016. Never being fully trained in dance growing up, Tiana found that it was just something she really enjoyed doing and was actually good at it, which led to her teaching and choreographing for fun. Now as the creator of Reckless Movement, she has changed her passion into her purpose and her purpose is now her profession. She helps women to find freedom in dance. It’s more than just dance and fitness. “I want to empower women to feel good and enjoy movement because it can change your perspective on life and upgrade your mindset.” Tiana also serves on the Alumnae Board.
Katie Falcone ’11 received a Masters degree in Bioengineering from the University of Pennsylvania while working full time as an engineer for a pharmaceutical company. Congratulations Katie!
Hannah Seifried ’18 a member of the Shippensburg University women’s lacrosse team was named the 2021 Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) Eastern Division Lacrosse Athlete of the Year. Hannah is just the third Raider in school history named a PSAC Lacrosse Athlete of the Year, and the first in 19 years. She was also selected to the All-PSAC Eastern Division First Team for her work as a midfielder and was named the MVP for her team at their annual banquet. Congratulations to Hannah on a terrific season!
2014 Gretchen Seifried ’14 passed her Occupational Therapy Boards in December and has been working as a PCA at the local elementary school while job searching. She accepted an OT position and moved to North Carolina in June to begin working as an OT at a pediatric private practice!
Visit SHAbrynmawr.org!
Heartcoming Registration is Open!
GIVING BACK TO SHA DURING COVID Alumnae
Profiles
Carolyn Curran Slota ’81 MUSICAL DIRECTOR WHY DID YOU THINK IT WAS IMPORTANT TO GIVE BACK TO SHA THIS YEAR?
Directed by Carolyn Curran Slota (REVUES WRITTEN BY THE DIRECTOR!)
Giving back to SHA is always a priority. Small by design, we are the strong heart which never stops beating. This year, it was especially important to inspire the students after a year of heavy restrictions. COVID wasn’t going to keep us down – the show would go on, and it did! HOW YOU WERE ABLE TO BRING EVERYONE TOGETHER FOR A SOCIALLY DISTANT AND VERY FUNNY REVUE?
This original revue was written to confront the elephant in the room, COVID-19. As I wrote it, I knew it would work! No matter the restrictions ... I would create a show that would be performed. The Sacred Heart Family could count on that. The students were intrigued and had confidence in the material. They also loved the idea! We had enthusiastic parental and administrative support. The Show Must Go On! WHAT DO YOU HOPE YOUR WORK WILL DO FOR CURRENT AND FUTURE SHA STUDENTS?
Believe anything is possible if you have faith in God and in yourself. Trust the SHA teachers and extra-curricular directors and coaches to lead well and have your best interest at heart. A play filled with witty dialogue and wonderful music is a true celebration of life. In 2021, we needed that celebration more than ever! Be a part of that ... or come to our shows and enjoy watching it happen.
2011 Broadway Bound: A Musical Review 2012 Grease 2013 Hooray for Hollywood: A Musical Extravaganza 2014 Hello, Dolly!
WHAT IMPACT HAS COVID HAD ON YOU, YOUR STUDENTS, AND THE SCHOOL?
In the beginning, COVID was overwhelming, throwing us all into the unknown. However, we did know it was frighteningly contagious. After The Sound of Music, our 2020 spring show was canceled three hours before it opened, I began to see, on a very personal level, how life would alter for all of us. Getting my legs under me again after my husband so unexpectedly passed away, I felt I had survived a lifechanging sadness and was rebuilding some kind of second chapter. With COVID, I would have to rebuild, again, and I wasn’t sure if I was up to that. Faith, family, and getting back up after you have been knocked down is what I hope to have instilled in my cast. Whether you are overcoming obstacles onstage or obstacles in your personal life, it is the courage to stand back up again that counts.
2015 Light Up The Dark: A Musical ReVue du Coeur 2016 Guys and Dolls 2017 Into the Gym: A Mystical Musical Journey 2018 Bye Bye Birdie 2019 Weather or Not: A Blisteringly Chilly Revue 2020 The Sound of Music 2021 Hug Me, Hug Me Not! A Socially Distant Revue
CALLING ALL ALUMNAE Do you know any students who might be a great fit for Sacred Heart Academy Bryn Mawr? We value personal recommendations from our graduates who know and have experienced a Sacred Heart education firsthand. The Admissions Office is available to welcome these prospective students and families to a campus visit at a Red & White Breakfast on the Hill or an Open House. Share your Kindergarten, Lower, Middle or Upper school recommendations with us directly by emailing admissions@shabrynmawr.org. We look forward to meeting future members of our Sacred Heart Academy family! Thank you!
Submit your Alumnae News and Notes and upload pictures electronically online! Visit SHAbrynmawr.org/alumnae SACRED HEART ACADEMY BRYN MAWR 25
Alumnae Profiles GIVING BACK TO SHA DURING COVID Laura Hibbs McKenzie ’06
Thank You Alumnae Board for your tremendous support this year! ALUMNAE BOARD 2020-2021 President Bridget O’Donnell Thompson ’02, P’33
Vice President Cassie Nentwig Carlile ’04
Treasurer Caitlin Piotrowski McKeon ’08
Secretary Marian Rosario ’16
Members Katie Ganley Birkhead ’00 Kelly Slota Caulfield ’08 Stephanie Piraino Davey ’02 Gina Bevlock Hagan ’09 Catherine Hayden Fox ’07 Katie Robinson Hemcher ’06 Alison Hibbs ’08 Tiana Jones ’02 Liz McCormick McBride ’08 Laura Hibbs McKenzie ’06 Brittan Murtagh ’95 Annie Bizzarro Pollack ’04 Amber Townsend ’10
“ I hope they remember that they can always ask for help and support; that God is their friend; and to spread love wherever they go!” FIONA BRADLEY ’13
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ALUMNAE BOARD SOCIAL MEDIA COMMITTEE CHAIR WHY DID YOU THINK IT WAS IMPORTANT TO GIVE BACK TO SHA THIS YEAR?
2020 and the first half of 2021 have been extremely difficult for many people. At the beginning of the pandemic, I found myself working from home full-time with a one-year-old while my husband (who works in healthcare) moved to a nearby apartment in an attempt to keep everyone as healthy as possible. While this was hard for me, there are so many who suffered and sacrificed far more. It was important for me to continue giving to SHA because, through my work on the alumnae board, I saw how hard the school was working to ensure students could continue learning in a normal and safe environment. I knew my professional skill-set in social media (and my amateur graphic design skills) could help the school connect with alumnae and raise some extremely important dollars. I encourage anyone with a communications/marketing/ design background looking for a way to give back to get in touch with the school. HOW HAS YOUR WORK WITH SOCIAL MEDIA HELPED SHA STAY CONNECTED TO ALUMS AND HELPED RAISE AWARENESS OF THE IMPORTANCE OF MAINTAINING THE LEGACY OF A SACRED HEART EDUCATION THROUGH THE ANNUAL FUND?
My goal with the alumnae-focused social media presence was to keep the SHA community connected in a way that felt easy and natural amidst an extremely tumultuous period. We created an alumnae-focused profile on Instagram and took ownership of the alumnae group on Facebook to ensure that while the school focused on keeping students, faculty and staff afloat, there was still someone listening and advocating for the alumnae community. Graduates of SHA Bryn Mawr span generations, so it was important for us to be on platforms that reach to everyone. An Instagram story might pop for a graduate of the class of 2019, while Facebook may be a better avenue to reach others. We wanted to make sure SHA’s messages were reaching as many people as possible and that we had a direct line to the questions, comments and concerns of the alumnae. Thankfully, we were pretty successful! Many virtual events hosted by the school saw increases in enrollment following social pushes, and we had our best annual Day of Giving ever. We were thrilled to reach our current Annual Fund challenge goal of $25,000, and every social post helped us raise more dollars for the things that help make Sacred Heart special, including tuition assistance, faculty development programming, technology (which was super important this year!) and more. We were also able to really hear the questions, comments and concerns of our community and determined that communication about the work of the alumnae board and the school, particularly in areas of diversity and inclusion, is key, so we began more regular updates on the initiatives happening both at the school and on the board. Not only did we meet the $25,000 challenge, we also matched the additional $10,000 that followed! WHAT DO YOU HOPE YOUR WORK WILL DO FOR THE FUTURE OF SHA?
I think sometimes it is difficult to understand how hard it is to keep a school like Sacred Heart running ... it is something I’ve seen firsthand on the alumnae board and truly had no idea about previously. There are a lot of really passionate people working to keep Sacred Heart thriving, and there is not a huge margin for error when it comes to schools like SHA. The sheer amount of time, energy and resources the school had to dedicate to ensuring students could safely come back to campus was immeasurable, but they were able to safely bring students – who are always their biggest priority – back to school safely. The past year has been understandably tough from a fundraising perspective since in-person events have been non-existent, but we made it work and saw a lot of success with virtual fundraising and events. I hope that my work in social media can help the school pivot to a more digital presence, so we can host both in-person and virtual events in the future to ensure the school’s longevity for years to come.
Fiona Bradley ’13 KAIROS LEADER WHY DID YOU THINK IT WAS IMPORTANT TO GIVE BACK TO SHA THIS YEAR?
The pandemic reminded me how important community and relationships really are. After a year of various forms of isolation, I wanted to make sure that going forward, I didn’t take the people and experiences in my life for granted. The Sacred Heart community helped shape me into who I am. So when I saw the opportunity to help with Kairos, I thought it would be a great way to give back and be a part of something meaningful. Given the challenges we’ve all faced this past year, understanding and appreciating the importance of community, conversation, empathy, and faith has never been more relevant, which is why I felt that Kairos would be more valuable than ever. In a year where we’ve had to veer constantly from “normalcy,” I was excited to help make this staple part of SHA senior year happen. HOW HAS YOUR LEADERSHIP HELPED SHA CONTRIBUTE TO A POSITIVE KAIROS STUDENT EXPERIENCE IN SPITE OF THE CHANGES THAT WERE REQUIRED?
For COVID-safety purposes, we held Kairos as a day retreat. I’m grateful for all of the student and faculty leaders who worked by my side to make the retreat a success. We were determined to not let the COVID restrictions overshadow or put a damper on all of the positive elements that the retreat can offer. Our goal was to create as much of the traditional Kairos experience as possible through activities, prayer, self-reflection, and discussion, while still giving the girls time to enjoy each other’s company in a casual, less structured, and unplugged way. I think that the girls appreciated that balance. They not only learned about themselves, others, and God, but also got time to just BE together as a class. WHAT DO YOU HOPE YOUR WORK WILL DO FOR THE STUDENTS FORTUNATE ENOUGH TO HAVE A KAIROS RETREAT THIS YEAR?
To this day, I still consider my Kairos experience to be a pivotal and life-changing moment in my personal growth. I hope that the girls that participated learned at least one new thing about themselves, God, or their classmates. I hope they remember that they can always ask for help and support; that God is their friend; and to spread love wherever they go! As they enter this next chapter of their lives, I hope that they will carry the Kairos mentality with them.
Marian Rosario ’16 ALUMNAE BOARD SECRETARY AND BLACK STUDENT UNION LEADER WHY DID YOU THINK IT WAS IMPORTANT TO GIVE BACK TO SHA THIS YEAR?
As a whole, 2020 was a was a difficult year for many of us, a year I may personally never forget. Experiencing a global pandemic as well as nationwide social unrest brought a deeper need for community in my life. It was a year that showcased how much stronger we are when we come together for the greater good. Last year truly brought to my attention the importance of lifting as you climb; in other words, helping when and where you can no matter where you are in your own journey. After months of forced solitude due to COVID, I knew it was time to reach back into the communities I know and love to contribute towards making a positive impact. SHA is a special community that gave me infinite joyous memories in my adolescence years. When I realized there were current students in need of support and advocacy, it was a no-brainer to use my resources to help. HOW DID YOU START THE BSU? WHAT PROGRAMS DO YOU USE WITH THE STUDENT BODY AND WITH THE STUDENTS MEMBERS OF THE BSU?
The summer of 2020 shed light to many injustices in not only our country but unfortunately in our SHA community. Due to this, current students of color expressed their need for more support and representation at school. As an alumna hearing these concerns, I reached out to see how an alumna of color could better support our current students in their school environment. After weeks of healthy dialogue in Zoom meetings with Suzanne Robinson, Deirdre Cryor, and a few invested teachers, we were able to bring the Black Student Union to life and launch the program in-person for the 2020-2021 school year. The BSU serves as a source of advocacy for our students of color. My main goal for this program is to ensure that students in the minority have a platform with proper representation for their voices to be heard, concerns to be addressed, and cultural needs to be met. With that goal in mind, I am grateful that I was able to jumpstart many opportunities for students during an unusual academic year. Due to COVID, planning and programming took an exceptional amount of creativity and care. Beginning in the fall, I hosted weekly hybrid sessions with middle school and high school members. Every week we focused on a new topic and activity that were both culturally relevant but also socio-emotionally relevant to the students and their experiences. In October, the BSU began a mentorship program where current Upper School members were matched with Black Sacred Heart Alumnae volunteers based on personality and career interests. This allowed for Alumnae to give back and reconnect with the school community while affording current students opportunities to bond in shared experiences with SHA women who have been where they are. Each month students highlighted educational fun facts and resources on the BSU Bulletin Board for classmates to engage in dialogue. In the spring, we hosted virtual events for the entire student body beginning with our Black History Month celebration. The BSU also began a Women’s Speaker Series inviting six women of color to speak virtually about their professional journey and the importance of diversity in their career fields. The BSU experienced a successful first year, and I am excited to see how the program continues to elevate student life. WHAT DO YOU HOPE YOUR WORK WILL DO FOR CURRENT AND FUTURE STUDENTS?
I hope my work at SHA will contribute to the well-rounded educational experience every child deserves. I like to think this work will allow students to feel a sense of belonging and acceptance not only from this school community but for themselves in their own personal journey. I believe this program has the ability to uplift, unite and empower students through tools of self-confidence, love and cultural education they can carry with them long after they’ve graduated. My deepest hope is that my contributions will be a part of what makes students call this place a home away from home. SACRED HEART ACADEMY BRYN MAWR 27
Intellectual Values
Class of 2017 Four Years Later AND GRADUATE STUDIES
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Jessica Atoo ’17
Saint Joseph’s University BS Information Technology 2 Megan Cecchine ’17 Summa Cum Laude Saint Joseph’s University BS Biology 3 Katie Gillin ’17 Providence College BS Health Policy and Management 4 Kellie McIntyre ’17 Summa Cum Laude University of South Carolina BS Public Health and Leadership Distinction in Research 1
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5 Elizabeth McLaughlin ’17 Magna Cum Laude College of William & Mary BBA Accounting and Biology minor 6 Cristina Tarantino ’17 Neumann University BS Health Science 7 Amanda Tolvasia ’17 Summa Cum Laude The University of Scranton BA English and Philosophy GRADUATE STUDIES
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8 Katie Falcone ’11 University of Pennsylvania Masters Degree, Bioengineering Katie accomplished this while working full time as an engineer for a pharmaceutical company.
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CONGRATULATIONS TO THESE ALUMNAE! BEST WISHES FOR WHAT LIES AHEAD IN YOUR NEXT CHAPTER! 28 Vue du Cœur SUMMER 2021
In Memory
“Jesus went before us on the narrow path along which He beckons us to follow Him.” ST. PHILIPPINE DUCHESNE
Gordon “Skip” Burlingame Father of Katie Burlingame ’95 former Trustee Margaret Carroll Carney ’50 Richard Chakejian Father of Karen Chakejian Donnelly ’84, Sandy Chakejian Bosken ’85 and Crista Chakejian ’90 Marie Dooner Mother of Katie Dooner Loftus ’84 and grandmother of Mary Dooner ’19 Nancy Lee Haas Dreyer ’55 Meghan Eshelman Sister of faculty member Amy Eshelman James Finley Grandfather of Michelle Finley ’05 and Stephanie Finely ’11 Larry Grossman Husband of Susan Griffith Grossman ’73
Jeffrey Heilmann Father of Amanda Heilmann ’20 Joseph Lebano Father of Christie Lebano Synder ’05, former Trustee Barbara Miller Mallard ’55 Barbara Nelson McCabe ’51 Sister of Joan Nelson Ronon ’47, aunt of Lynn Ronon ’71 and great aunt of Caroline Cohen Noce ’08 Mary Ann Byrne Montilla ’62 Cousin of Eileen Byrne Barrett ’61 Albert Phelan Husband of Joan Grant Phelan ’51 Joan Meaney Quinn ’47 Mother of Kathy Quinn Porter ’73, Patty Quinn Drollinger ’75, Rosemary Quinn Honebrink ’80, Ann Quinn ’81 and Joanie Quinn Milhous ’87, grandmother of Kiely Bridge ’12 and Katie Honebrink ’15, former Trustee
Robert Rende Husband of Janet Wolfington Rende ’59, father of Pam Rende Meredith ’89, Leigh Rende ’95, brother-in-law of Mary-Louise Wolfington RSCJ, former Trustee Mimi Daly Robinson ’65 Rosemary Robinson Mother of faculty member Patti DeFeo, mother-in-law of Suzanne Santora Robinson ’76 and grandmother of Katie Robinson Hemcher ’06 and Kara Shields ’12 Carol Ryan Mother of Maureen Ryan Fitzpatrick ’72 and grandmother of Alicia Ryan ’91,Molly Fitzpatrick ’07, Claire Fitzpatrick Stogis ’11 and Nene Fitzpatrick ’14.
Janet Shay Mother-in-law of faculty member Cindy Shay H. David Seegul Husband of Barbara Mozino Seegul ’59 Robert Slota Sr. Grandfather of Kelly Slota Caulfield ’08 and father-in-law of Carolyn Curran Slota ’81 Maureen Sullivan Former faculty member Mary Louise “Dev” McDevitt Thielins ’43 Mark Verdeur Husband of former faculty member Dolores Verdeur
John Scott Jr. Grandfather of Jordan Grinnan Moldawer ’06 and Devon Grinnan Sierzega ’09
SACRED HEART ACADEMY BRYN MAWR 29
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FOUNDED IN 1865, SACRED HEART ACADEMY BRYN MAWR IS AN ALL-GIRLS, KINDERGARTEN THROUGH GRADE TWELVE, INDEPENDENT, CATHOLIC, COLLEGE PREPARATORY SCHOOL ON THE MAIN LINE.
