THE JOURNEY OF DSHA’S FIRST MARIAN SCHOLAR MIA RUGE, DSHA ’24 PG. 27
D ivine S avior H oly Angels H igh School
D ivine S avior H oly Angels H igh School
SPONSORED BY THE SIS TERS OF THE DIVINE SAVIOR
SPONSORED BY THE SIS TERS OF THE DIVINE SAVIOR
4257 Nor th 100th Street | Milwau ke e, WI 53222
4257 Nor th 100th Street | Milwau ke e, WI 53222
A ll Girls Mak es All the Diff erence | dsha.info
A ll Girls Mak es All the Diff erence | dsha.info
Divine Savior Holy Angels High School is a Catholic, college-preparatory high school for young women that excels at developing the whole person. Sponsored by the Sisters of the Divine Savior and grounded in their mission to make known the goodness and kindness of Jesus Christ, we develop our students into capable young women of faith, heart, and intellect who accept the gospel call to live lives that will make a difference.
2023-24 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Maureen Carney Goetz, DSHA ’96, Chair Colliers
Derek Mosley, JD, Secretary Marquette University Law School
Jacquie Fossett, Treasurer QBE North America
S. Grace Mary Croft, SDS, DS ’56, Sponsorship Coordinator Sisters of the Divine Savior
Frank Probst, Sponsorship Coordinator Sisters of the Divine Savior
Katie Konieczny, DSHA ’92, President and Ex-Officio Divine Savior Holy Angels High School
MEMBERS
Juan Banda | Froedtert Hospital Froedtert Health
Kathleen Cepelka, PhD | Retired, Archdiocese of Milwaukee
Craigh Cepukenas | Artisan Partners
Molly Hegarty Kanter, JD | State of Wisconsin—Department of Workforce Development
Barbara Henderson, JD | Community Volunteer
Brigitte Hyler Richerson | Advocate Aurora Health
Aaron Lipski | City of Milwaukee Fire Department
Arlisia McHenry | Consultant, City of Milwaukee
Ann Pieper Eisenbrown | Pieper Properties
Nicole Renouard, JD | Quarles & Brady LLP
Gerry Schwarz | Kickhaefer Manufacturing Co.
Moe Tarantino | Community Volunteer
S. Carol Thresher, SDS, DS ’59 | Sisters of the Divine Savior
John Wimmer | Wimmer Communities
2023-24 ADMINISTRATION
Katie Konieczny, DSHA ’92, President
Dan Quesnell, Principal
Sally Gramling, DSHA ’79, Chief Financial Officer
2023-24
STRATEGIC COUNCIL
Cynthia Blaze, Director of DEI
Ann Duffy, DSHA ’10, Director of Admissions & Financial Aid
Rachel Fredricks, Dean of Student Affairs
Claire Hartley, JD, VP of HR and In-House Counsel
Matt Johnson, Sr. Director of Development
Heather Mansfield, PhD, Academic Dean
Stephanie Monson, Director of Campus Ministry
Maria Schram, Director of Students Services
Peggy Seegers-Braun, Athletic Director
Molly Shea, VP of Marketing & Communications
John White, Director of Technology
Scan to view the 2024-25 DSHA Board of Directors.
SMART TEAM PRESENTS RESEARCH PROJECT IN SAN ANTONIO, TX
The SMART (Students Modeling A Research Topic) Team co-curricular presented their research project at the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB) Conference in San Antonio, TX from March 23–26. Science Department Chair Stacey Strandberg & Science Faculty Eric Himburg co-moderate the co-curricular which gives students the opportunity to practice being research scientists while working on a year-long project with professional research scientists. This year, students worked with Dr. Heather Himburg from the Medical College of Wisconsin and presented their two projects alongside college and graduate students from across the country at the ASBMB conference. Their works were titled The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly of Chemokines: Inhibiting CXCR4 to Stop Metastasis of (Head and Neck) Human Cancers and For a Few Dollars More: Treatment of Metastatic Head and Neck Cancers with Dimerized CXCL12
In the first project, Dashers examined chemokines, a class of proteins that induce cell migration, and have been found to exhibit expression changes and disorders in some human cancers. Students found the evidence of CXCR4 is an implication in tumor aggressiveness and urges a consideration for CXCR4 inhibitors as future treatments for poor prognostic cancers. For the latter presentation, students studied head and neck cancers as the seventh most common cancer worldwide, with a five-year survival rate of less than 50% for advanced diseases. Ultimately, Dashers found that novel treatments targeting CXCL12-CXCR4 protein interaction were predicted to be beneficial in treating head and neck cancers, yet it is important to continue researching possible treatments.
“Through this experience
I learned that science is constantly changing, and you have to stay current on your research. I grew more confident in my scientific writing and presentation skills as well as collaborating with others. It was incredible to meet graduate students, professors, PhD candidates, and other SMART Team students throughout the weekend. I plan to study biochemistry in college, so it was important for me to gain experience researching and presenting.”
—Ella Wurtzbacher, DSHA ’24
Scan to view full research posters and complete list of DSHA SMART Team participants.
Scan to view full research posters and complete list of DSHA SMART Team student research scientists.
WATER IS LIFE: DASHERS MAKE AN IMPACT FROM MILWAUKEE TO TANZANIA.
This year, Dashers collaborated with the Sisters of the Divine Savior, DSHA’s sponsoring order, for the annual Lenten service project. Keeping the school year’s scriptural theme from John 10:10 in mind, “I came that they may have life and live it abundantly,” students raised significant funds to bring an irrigation system to the Sisters’ teaching farming project in southern Tanzania. This teaching farm educates farmers about regenerative and sustainable agriculture in the region, and gives families the opportunity to live more abundantly and long-term, rather than living year-to-year on their harvest.
Throughout Lent, Dashers organized and led several fundraisers for the project. Each Wednesday, students were invited to drink only water as their beverage throughout the day, and donate the money they would normally spend on other drinks to the fund. Student leaders greeted Dashers each Wednesday morning to collect donations before class. On March 20, girls hosted the Lenten Student Auction in the DSHA Commons. Dashers participated in a silent auction and bid on experiences, specialty items, gift cards, themed baskets, and more. The event raised approximately $5,000 and a total of $8,000 was donated to the special project. Dashers were also invited to walk in solidarity with the women in Tanzania who, on average, walk 3.7 miles to access clean water each day. A bucket of water traveled the halls of DSHA each day and Dashers were encouraged to carry it between their classes and say a quick prayer for the women in Tanzania.
Additionally, and as part of the focus on clean water for all, Dashers were also encouraged to make an impact in their community. Children in the neighborhoods of the 53206 zip code show the highest rates of lead poisoning in the state due to the higher use of lead pipes that can lead to lead-contaminated water. As a result, the MacCanon Brown Homeless Sanctuary, a non-profit organization, offers free lead screening for children in the zip code. To make the screening process more comfortable, Dashers collected new or gently used teddy bears or other stuffed animals to be donated to the non-profit organization to give to each child after testing. On March 28, students donated 340 stuffed animals.
Pictured left to right: Lila Waltenberger, DSHA ’25, and Olivia Selthafner, DSHA ’25, collecting cash donations for the 2024 Lenten Project.
I signed up for this wellness experience because I wanted a peaceful way to relax, especially after being out of school for Vocare. It was nice to slow down, focus on my thoughts, and think about God.”
—Lucy Wallace, DSHA ’24
Lenten Prayer Labyrinth | Students had numerous opportunities to engage in individual and communal prayer throughout the Lenten season including the Divine Mercy Chaplet, all-school Reconciliation and Eucharistic Adoration, meditation Monday, all-school Stations of the Cross, and more. On March 13, students were able to sign up to walk the prayer labyrinth as part of an Applied Wellness experience and a way to further incorporate prayer into the Lenten season. A prayer labyrinth is an ancient spiritual practice that engages both body and spirit as one walks the wandering path. The action reminds us to let God lead and is one of many options of prayer available for students during Lent.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Letter from the President & Principal
Special Events | Highlights
Dasher Life | Highlights
Fine Arts | Highlights
Rugby Feature | Coach John “Chin” Klein
Athletics | Winter & Spring Highlights
Donor Q&A | Candace Wendlick and Jane
Rademacher Kerwin, DS ’64
Faith Feature | Where Faith and Culture Meet
Heart Feature | The Journey of DSHA’s first Marian Scholar Mia Ruge, DSHA ’24
Intellect Feature | Class of 2024 Valedictorians Kate Krueger and Abby Quesnell
Celebrating Retirement | José Hurtado Pérez
Class of 2024 | Graduation
Class of 2024 | College Matriculation, Awards, & Recognitions
Class of 2024 | Alumnae Medalist Families
Alumnae Feature | Margot Dunn, DSHA ’18
Alumnae News
The Word Magazine is published for and about the students, alumnae, parents, faculty, staff, administrators, and friends of Divine Savior Holy Angels High School. Your feedback is always welcome; contact VP of Marketing & Communications Molly Shea at SheaM@dsha.info.
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF:
Molly Shea, VP of Marketing & Communications
CREATIVE DIRECTOR:
Alex Mora, Director of Graphic Design & Marketing Projects
STAFF WRITER: Erin McCarville, Marketing & Development Writer
ADDITIONAL CONTRIBUTORS:
Graphic Design & Marketing Intern Lizzy Gardner, DSHA ’21; Senior Director of Development Matt Johnson; President Katie Konieczny, DSHA ’92; Principal Dan Quesnell; Alumnae Director Danielle Jerominski Rabe, DSHA ’08; plus student contributors Caitlynn Bell, DSHA ’25; Nayeli Mercado, DSHA ’26; Anna Pienkos, DSHA ’25
LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT & PRINCIPAL
2023-24 SCRIPTURAL THEME
“I came that they may have life and live it abundantly.”
John 10:10
Dear DSHA Community,
Each time we write “Dear DSHA Community”, we hope you know it is with sincere gratitude and love. You are most certainly dear. This semester you have shown up, you have been generous, and you have cheered one another on. You, dear community, are why we feel we have the best jobs in the world. Our theme for this school year has been to live abundantly, as we are called by Christ in John 10:10. We have had a front row seat to the multitude of ways you have done so—from your efforts and successes, to your service and care for those in our community and beyond.
Let’s celebrate you!
To our DSHA Class of 2024 | We are so proud of you. You are heading to college all across the U.S.—and world! You will become journalists, teachers, doctors, entrepreneurs, scientists, artists, and mothers. You will certainly become leaders in your college classrooms in the fall and we encourage you to continue to know your worth—to know you are confident and capable. You will serve and contribute in significant ways to your next community. We can’t wait to hear about all you accomplish in the years ahead. For now, however, we want you to know we are deeply proud of how you have loved and honored one another over the last four years. When you entered the front doors of DSHA your freshman year, you were split into two—masked and distanced. And it was so hard. Now you are leaving with a tangible joy and unity. We loved hearing you sing We Are One Body at our last Mass—and both of us teared up with love for you. And you gave us the joy of joys at our final all-school assembly when all of you either got on stage to perform a choreographed dance (or cheered from the audience!) To you, that may have been a dance. To us, it was a show of planning and working together, that you know how to have fun with one another and embrace your differences, and that you love each other in a way that has set a beautiful example for the underclasswomen who watched you own and grow your friendships and sisterhood. (Visit pages 37-48 to learn more about the DSHA Class of 2024.)
To our Parents, Alumnae, Donors, Faculty, Staff, and Students | Over 850 of you supported our DSHA Emerald Isle Auction in various ways. What a number! The auction raises funds each year to support and further our mission. You donated items and sponsorships. You hosted class benefit parties and gathered donations from your parishes. You bought a ticket and donated to scholarships through our paddle raise. You gave your valuable time to plan and build a beautiful evening to celebrate “Community and Friendship” on March 16. Students, you served, emceed, and shared your stories. Together, we raised over $400,000 net toward scholarships and our annual operating budget. Thank you, dear community for your donations, your time, and your talent. Your efforts and generosity is noticed, and we hope you know that each 850+ of you are changing the lives of the young women of Milwaukee. We are already planning for our 2025 auction and cannot wait to celebrate with you again next spring.
To our Students, Faculty, Staff | In May, we had the joy of cheering on our very first Marian Scholar—the one and only Mia Ruge, DSHA ’24 —as she walked the stage at graduation in celebration of completing her four-year DSHA Certificate of Completion.
While there are so many people who have contributed to the implementation of this program, right now we would like to honor and thank those who are in the building each and every day for your display of radical inclusion. This spring we hosted a day-long conference for Catholic schools, Archdiocesan leaders, and parents of special needs children with an interest in starting an inclusive education program for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The FIRE Foundation of Milwaukee was present; they are committed to “advancing the inclusion of children with disabilities in Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Milwaukee.” They spoke about radical inclusion and named that this can only happen when the majority decides to accept and unite as one cohesive and loving community. Mia’s classmates and our faculty and staff have been at the forefront of leading and living this unity. This program is now embedded into the fabric of who we are, and made us a more whole and complete community. To Mia: you have shown us such beauty and light; you have given us so many smiles and brought such joy to our world; you have taught each one of us something we needed to know about love and acceptance; and we are so very proud of you and the ways you have grown. (Visit pages 27-30 to learn more about Mia’s story and the Marian Scholars Program at DSHA.)
One of the delegated responsibilities of the Sisters of the Divine Savior, our sponsoring order, is stewardship. For our upcoming school year, our scriptural theme will be rooted in the idea of stewardship of one another. We will wait to share the specifics until closer to the start of school, though for now as we reflect on our most recent semester, it strikes us that our 2023-24 school has teed up this value so well. May we continue to love one another out of the overflow of God’s love for us, and may we be a community to live as one Body in Christ—where each part matters, holds value, and meets a need within our DSHA community.
We hope you are all having a restful and wonderful summer and we look forward to the start of our fall semester soon.
Blessings.
Dan Quesnell Principal
Watch the DSHA Class of 2024 celebrate on stage at the final all-school assembly.
Katie Konieczny, DSHA ’92 President
SPECIAL EVENTS | HIGHLIGHTS
1 | DANCING WITH DAD
On February 3, Dashers and their dads, or special father figures, attended the Father Daughter Dinner Dance at the historic Pfister Hotel in downtown Milwaukee. The longstanding and beloved tradition includes dinner, live music, and dancing. A special thank you to parent Megan Hambrook for chairing the event. Pictured: Elizabeth Orta-Medina, DSHA ’25 , with her father Juan Pablo Orta-Martin
2 | WELCOMING THE CLASS OF 2028
On January 31, the DSHA Class of 2028 gathered for the first official time as a class community for the Dasher Kick-Off event. The girls met one-on-one with faculty and counselors, registered for classes, and learned more about the DSHA student experience. Emily Fricker, DSHA ’24 , spoke to the newest Dashers about her personal high school experience, her growth in confidence, and her advice on how to make the most of four years as a Dasher.
3 | EMERALD ISLE AUCTION
On March 16, the DSHA community gathered in the Chris & John McDermott Gymnasium for the best St. Patrick’s Day party in town to celebrate and raise funds to help further the DSHA mission. The Emerald Isle evening included student emcees Caroline Cahill, DSHA ’26 , and Hannah Strachota, DSHA ’25 , plenty o’ green, a silent and live auction, dinner, dancing, and the annual paddle raise for scholarships. A special thank you to all the 2024 DSHA Auction Chairs for making the night a success: Katie Hartzheim ; Christine Finerty ; Jen Walker ; Amy Basile ; Sarah Herrle Ripp, DSHA ’08 ; Maria Schmelzer ; Sara Yordan Di Benedetto, DSHA ’08 ; Laura Russell ; Bridget Hegarty Johnson, DSHA ’95 ; Nora Langenfeld ; and Mandy Quesnell . Pictured left to right: Lainey Sullivan, DSHA ’24 ; Strachota; Cahill; Syniah Lee, DSHA ’24 ; and Principal Dan Quesnell
4
| EXPLORING CAREER PATHS
Sophomores and juniors participated in the annual Carla Olle, HA ’60 , Career Day on February 29. Students started their morning in the Robert and Marie Hansen Family Fine Arts Theatre by listening to Olle speak about the importance of the day. Senior Design Architect Katie LaCourt, DSHA ’06 , then spoke to students about her career path, leadership skills, and offered advice on finding the right career fit. Following, Dashers attended four sessions based on their career interests with an alumna speaking about the profession. Thank you to the 50 DSHA Alumnae present (pictured) who spoke with our Dashers!
5 | GATHERING WITH GRANDPARENTS
DSHA was thrilled to welcome grandmothers and grandfathers, and special grandparent figures, to the annual Grandparent Liturgy on April 24. A favorite DSHA event, the Divine Strings and Liturgical Music Choir provided the music and the Very Reverend Father Tim Kitzke presided over the special Mass. Following the liturgy, grandparents and granddaughters spent quality time with each other over breakfast before classes. Pictured: Avery Fischer, DSHA ’26 , with her grandparents.
6 | DASHER DAY OF GIVING
On April 17, 333 alumnae, parents, faculty, staff, and friends came together on Dasher Day of Giving to raise a total of $64,558 for the DSHA Annual Fund. Throughout the day, our community shared why they are #GladToBePlaid and what DSHA meant to them. The day included 142 new donors, gifts from 56 alumnae classes, and contributions from coast to coast from 26 different states. Pictured: Dashers writing thank you cards to donors on Dasher Day of Giving.
7 | MOTHER DAUGHTER BONDING
On May 5, students were invited to attend a Mother Daughter Mass in the Mother of Our Savior Chapel. Dashers and moms, or special mother figures, enjoyed a light breakfast and flower arranging, as well. A special thank you to Director of Campus Ministry Stephanie Monson for helping organize the event and allowing Dashers to celebrate Mother’s Day early. Pictured left to right: Lizzy Stith, DSHA ’24, Mary Stith, DSHA ’26 , with their mother Ann Stith
8 | VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION
DSHA hosted a Volunteer Appreciation Dinner at Zisters in Elm Grove to celebrate those who have given back to DSHA with their time and talents on May 14. Parent Tracey Fricker received the Spirit of DSHA Award for her long-time service to DSHA, dedication to the Fine Arts Department, and more. Parent and Board of Directors Member Moe Tarantino received the Emily and Freda Petrusek Award for steadfast leadership, contributions, and service to DSHA. Pictured left to right: President Katie Konieczny, DSHA ’92 , with Fricker.
9 | SERVICE IMMERSION
The Vocare service immersion experience remains the capstone of each student’s four years of Salvatorian service. Each DSHA senior served for two full weeks in the greater Milwaukee community working alongside the elderly, children, those with special needs, or at community outreach organizations at 48 different sites. Seniors experience firsthand many of the critical issues facing society while gaining a deeper understanding of how they can utilize their God-given gifts and talents in service to others. Following the two weeks, several seniors shared personal reflections on their Vocare experience with their peers, faculty, and staff at the Vocare Welcome Back Assembly on March 14. Pictured left to right: Nadia Perkovich, DSHA ’24; Greta Rehmann, DSHA ’24; Flan O’Keef, DSHA ’24; and Meghan Walsh, DSHA ’24
DASHER LIFE | HIGHLIGHTS
1 | ROCK CLIMBING CLUB
The DSHA and MUHS Rock Climbing co-curricular met outdoors or at an indoor facility twice a week throughout the school year. Practice focused on technique training, muscle building exercises, and route circuits. The team consistently placed in the top ten of 30 different high schools in competitions. Lindsey Hladio, DSHA ’24 , finished in the top 15 of women in the Wisconsin High School Climbing League season.
2 | MULTICULTURAL WEEK
DSHA celebrated Multicultural Week from April 15–19. Students from the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Commission of Student Council, Sisters of Culture, Interfaith, Asian Student Union, and Furia Latina co-curriculars collaboratively planned the week to celebrate the diverse backgrounds within the DSHA community, and spark conversations around important topics. The week’s festivities were open to all students, and featured the annual all-school Multicultural Week Assembly with a number of performances from several students and co-curricular groups. Pictured: Francie Janisch, DSHA ’27
3 | CELEBRATING CATHOLIC SCHOOLS
The DSHA community celebrated Catholic Schools Week from January 28–February 3 with special activities each day including a senior vs. faculty/staff basketball game, a pancake breakfast, and the annual Gr8 Lengths Assembly to support the organization Children with Hair Loss. The week ended with an all-school Mass with the Most Reverend Bishop Jeffrey R. Haines of Milwaukee as the celebrant. As tradition during Catholic Schools Week, faculty and staff celebrating milestone years of service at DSHA were recognized.
4 | FRENCH EXCURSION
DSHA welcomed a group of French students from the Lycée St. Jean, a Catholic School in Limoges, France, from October 12–25. French students lived with a DSHA host family; the female students attended DSHA while the male students attended MUHS. From March 21–April 6, 30 Dashers traveled to France and attended Lycée St. Jean while staying with their respective host families, and immerse themselves in French culture, with World Languages Faculty Madame Eileen Gleeson leading the experience. Students also visited the River Seine, the Eiffel Tower, le Château de Versailles, as well as several art museums.
5
| STRENGTHENING CONNECTIONS
The DSHA Campus Ministry Department hosted Connection Week from April 22–26. Dashers put their cell phones away during lunch and were encouraged to connect more deeply with their peers. Throughout the week, students played table games, bingo, and completed a school-wide art project where they described what they loved about DSHA.
6 | ROBOTICS GOES TO WORLDS
The FIRST® Team 1732, comprised of both DSHA and MUHS students, began their building season by winning the FIRST® Lake Superior Regional Competition in Duluth, MN. The competition took place from February 28–March 2, and featured robotics teams from 55 high schools throughout the Midwest. The team was awarded the Excellence in Engineering Award during the competition, which celebrates the team that demonstrated a professional approach to the design process. They went on to secure first place in the Wisconsin Regional Competition on March 16 and 17. The team then participated in the St. Louis Regional Competition from March 20–23 where they received the Creativity Award which honors intentional creativity that enhances the strategy of the play of robots. The team was ranked #36 in the United States and #48 in the world as they headed to Houston, TX to compete in the World Championships from April 17–20. While there, they faced the best teams in the world, attended seminars to finetune strategic planning for upcoming seasons, and finished in the top 1% of all FIRST® Robotics Teams.
7 | FRIENDLY COMPETITION
On May 2, students, faculty, and staff were invited outside for a powderpuff football tournament. The School Pride (SPRIDE) Committee, Campus Ministry Student Officers, and various co-curricular student leaders helped plan the event. Throughout the games, several co-curriculars sold treats to benefit the MacCanon Brown Homeless Sanctuary, a non-profit organization that acts as a daytime multi-resource center for homeless and at-risk individuals. Seniors won the tournament with a final score of 35-14 after defeating the sophomore class.
8 | FORENSICS ON THE RISE
The DSHA Forensics co-curricular hosted its first tournament at DSHA on January 27. The team has nearly doubled in size this school year and formed a Student Congress Team to participate in a form of debate that emulates the style and procedure of the U.S. Congress. The team competed at the National Speech & Debate Association qualifier in March with Karina Contreras, DSHA ’25 , finishing in the top two and qualifying to compete in the category of “Program Oral Interpretation.” Additionally, Josie Marsho, DSHA ’25 ; Mairin Daily, DSHA ’25 ; and Cecilia Barthel, DSHA ’25 , competed in the National Catholic Forensics League in Chicago in May. Pictured left to right: Maggie Killoran, DSHA ’26 , Stormy Walker, DSHA ’27 , Contreras, Marsho, and Daily.
FINE ARTS | HIGHLIGHTS VISUAL ARTS
AP ART EXHIBIT
Students enrolled in AP Art: 2D Design each created a portfolio of twenty original pieces around a central theme. Dashers created their pieces with the mediums of their choice including drawing, painting, film, ink, photography, and more. Throughout the month of May, seniors displayed their final work at the AP Art Exhibit in the DSHA Commons and the Fridl Family Foyer. The course is instructed by Fine Arts Department Chair & Visual Arts Faculty Nora Larscheid .
I learned the most about artistic style and time management skills through working on this project. I had to carefully plan out each piece while making sure each one connected to my overall theme. My favorite part of working on each one was learning what mediums I like to use the most including film, photography, and ink.”
—Katie Hyde, DSHA ’24
SCHOLASTIC ART AWARDS
As part of the AP Art course, Dashers had the opportunity to prepare pieces for submission to the Scholastic Art Awards to be juried in various art categories. These prestigious recognitions acknowledge excellence in the visual arts and encourage the artistic endeavors of young people throughout the state of Wisconsin. Three DSHA artists received awards and their pieces were displayed in the 2024 Scholastic Arts Competition and Exhibition at the Milwaukee Art Museum from February 24–April 7.
1 | Emma Bruckman, DSHA ’24
Silver Key Award—Fashion Piece entitled: Woven Together
2 | Katie Hyde, DSHA ’24
Silver Key Award—Film & Animation
Short film entitled: Soles of Childhood
3 | Savanna Wertz, DSHA ’24
Silver Key Award—Sculpture
Crocheted sculpture entitled: Reef
ANNUAL STAGE PLAY — PETER AND THE STARCATCHER
From February 29–March 3, DSHA Theatre presented four performances of the stage play Peter and the Starcatcher. The pirate-packed, adventure-filled Peter Pan prequel was perfect for kids and adults alike. The show featured an incredible nautical-inspired set with a pirate-themed playground. The play was directed by DSHA Director of Theatre, Choir, and Liturgical Music Zachary Ziegler , with set design and crew oversight by DSHA Fine Arts Faculty and Theatre Producing Director Amanda Marsala
Fall Musical Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat Earns Eight Jerry Awards
DSHA's Fall Musical Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat was filled with unforgettable characters, fabulous dances, catchy music, and a stunning set. The all-female-casted production received 18 Jerry Award nominations this fall, with eight wins announced on May 24. Run by the Overture Center in Madison, the Jerry Awards recognize excellence in high school musical theatre across Wisconsin.
Congratulations to the following 2024 Jerry Award winners!
Serafina Stephenson, DSHA ’24 | Outstanding Supporting Performance Award
Natalie Hartung, DSHA ’27 | Outstanding Supporting Performance Award
Ella Connelly, DSHA ’24 | Outstanding Supporting Performance Award
Ella Markwald, DSHA ’24 | Outstanding Supporting Performance Award
Sophie Wondrachek, DSHA ’25 | Spirit Award
Director of Theater, Choir, & Liturgical Music Zachary Ziegler | Outstanding Direction
Director of Theater, Choir, & Liturgical Music Zachary Ziegler and Julie Johnson | Outstanding Musical Direction
Lighting Designer Mike Van Dreser | Outstanding Lighting Direction
1 | Pictured left to right: Ella Markwald, DSHA ’24 , and Maggie Weiner, DSHA ’24
2 | Pictured: Eliana Idzikowski, DSHA ’24
3 | Pictured left to right: Anika Lenci, DSHA ’25 ; Morgan Vosniak, DSHA ’25 ; Ella Steiner, DSHA 25 ; and Margarita Gutierrez, DSHA ’24
4 | Pictured left to right: Jenna Mansfield, DSHA ’26 , and Lilly Littrell, DSHA ’24
FINE ARTS | HIGHLIGHTS
SPRING CHORAL CONCERT
WSMA STATE SOLO AND ENSEMBLE FESTIVAL
During the first weekend in May, vocal music students who qualified at the Wisconsin School Music Association (WSMA) District Solo and Ensemble Festival performed at the WSMA State Festival.
The Angelaries received a first rating for Show Choir Performance and four individual Dashers received first ratings for the following categories:
On May 3, the DSHA vocal music students performed a concert rooted in the theme, “Even a tree has more hope! If it is cut down, it will sprout again and grow new branches,” from Job 14:7. The show opened with senior Angelaires Genevieve Baynes, DSHA ’24 , and Serafina Stephenson, DSHA ’24 , who performed their first rated pieces from the Wisconsin School Music Association (WSMA) State Solo & Ensemble Festival. Baynes performed “On My Own” from the musical Les Misérables and Stephenson performed “Se tu m’ami” by Allesandro Parisotti. The Concert Choir then opened their set with “All Good Gifts” from Godspell , followed by several songs from a variety of genres. The Angelaires then performed twelve arrangements including hits from a variety of Disney movies, Broadway musicals, and contemporary artists. Both choirs are directed by DSHA Director of Theatre, Choir, and Liturgical Music Zachary Ziegler MUSICAL THEATRE
CLASSICAL SOLO
Genevieve Baynes, DSHA ’24
Annabelle Leh, DSHA ’25
Serafina Stephenson, DSHA ’24*
* Nominated for Exemplary Performance Recognition
Genevieve Baynes, DSHA ’24
Anna Pienkos, DSHA ’25
Serafina Stephenson, DSHA ’24
VOCAL JAZZ IMPROVISATION SOLO
Genevieve Baynes, DSHA ’24
Scan to view the full Spring Choral Concert, beginning at 16:00.
Competing at WSMA has been one of the most formative vocal experiences that I’ve had the opportunity to partake in. I find it simultaneously challenging and encouraging to showcase different genres and styles of music while receiving constructive feedback from the judges. The practice and technique I’ve learned since being part of DSHA Angelaires has prepared me for experiences like this.”
—Genevieve Baynes, DSHA ’24, pictured above
HANDBELLPALOOZA SPRING BELLAROO
On May 13, the Varsity Handbells, and two sections of JV Handbells, performed the annual HanbellPalooza Spring Bellaroo. The Varsity Handbells opened with “I’m a Believer” by Neil Diamond and closed with “Mamma Mia” by ABBA. The JV Handbell groups played songs from a variety of genres, from the Beatles to Les Misérables Pictured left to right: Tess Caraher, DSHA ’26 ; Olivia Olson, DSHA ’26 ; Paula Goetz, DSHA ’26 ; Olive Foster, DSHA ’26
Scan to watch the full Spring Orchestra Concert, beginning at 26:30.
SPRING ORCHESTRA CONCERT
The DSHA Orchestra and Divine Strings performed in the Robert and Marie Hansen Family Fine Arts Theatre on May 6. The DSHA Orchestra opened the show with a Taylor Swift medley. The Divine Strings then performed seven pieces including an original work written and composed by Ella Markwald, DSHA ’24 , entitled “August.” Markwald wrote and scored the full instrumentation for the Divine Strings including parts for first and second violin, viola, cello, piano, bass guitar, saxophone, and percussion.
WSMA STATE SOLO AND ENSEMBLE FESTIVAL
During the first weekend in May, the DSHA Divine Strings received a first rating at the Wisconsin School Music Association State Solo and Ensemble Festival for their “Alternative Pop Performance” and “Unabridged Professional Version” of the Brandenburg Concerto No. 3 by Bach and Waltz #2 by Shostakovich. Additionally, ten individual instrumentalists received first ratings at the festival in the following categories:
A special congratulations to Yessica Rodriguez, DSHA ’25 , whose violin solo won the 2024 State Exemplary Performance Certificate.
It’s Bigger Than Rugby
Celebrating a quarter-century legacy of Coach John “Chin” Klein with DSHA Rugby
BY ERIN M c CARVILLE
Head Varsity Rugby A-Side Coach John “Chin” Klein has seen an unprecedented amount of success in his decades of coaching at DSHA. Since starting as an Assistant Coach in 1998, the team has won ten Single School National Rugby Championships and the program has grown to be one of the most popular sports at DSHA with almost 50 girls participating each year. As the team continues to earn state and national championship titles year after year, Klein has always said it is “more than rugby” that paves the way to success. It is coaching to the individual, the bond between the players as teammates, and the support network outside of rugby the girls “run for” that leads to success.
Klein credits his career as a special education teacher to his ability to coach the individual. “My profession has taught me how to work one-on-one with people. As a coach, it’s important to coach to the individual.” He shared, “It’s really time consuming, but it’s a way to develop significant relationships with every player and get them to play to their best ability. If you don’t have that relationship with your players, I don’t know how you can be a successful coach or team. I’m not just coaching for the program; I’m coaching for the players.”
Throughout his many seasons, Klein is continuously proud of the Dashers’ ability to bond as a team. The DSHA Athletic Department has six core values—academic success, athletic excellence, teamwork, leadership, service, and sportsmanship—and this year’s team lived those valves. Klein stated, “I was impressed by the leaders and captains of this (2023-24) team. The seniors began playing during the (height of) COVID, and they stuck it out and developed a bond regardless.” He continued, “Their dedication, commitment, and teamwork helped us win back-to-back national championship titles in the 2021-22 and 2022-23 season, as well as a state and Midwest Championship title this year.” He continued, “They
DSHA Head Rugby Coach John “Chin” Klein has led the Dashers to Single School Rugby National Championships in ten seasons: 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2017, 2019, 2022, and 2023.
really took that time we lost during COVID and gave it back to us with so much success. It was special to watch.”
Before the Single School National Rugby tournament started in May this year, the girls reminded themselves who they “run for.” A popular team phrase, Klein explained that he reminds the girls the sport is much bigger than themselves. He shared, “I ask them ‘who do you run for?’ because I want them to find the motivation and the understanding that they are playing for others.” He continued, “Once they realize that, it breeds gratitude and pushes them to play hard because they are not only playing for themselves, but for the people they love.”
It was during that Single School National Rugby Championship Final that Klein experienced one of his favorite rugby-related moments of his career. After losing a hard-fought battle to a very competitive team from Eagle, ID 5-24, more than a few of the girls were teary-eyed. A referee, who had seen them play in previ -
Rugby
Coach Chin is extremely dedicated to the growth of the entire team as well as each player as an individual both on and off the pitch. He does not hesitate to check in with us to make sure we are doing okay. Through the last 4 years, Chin encourages each of us in different ways. He lets us know how valued we each are and constantly pushes us to perform at the highest level.”
— Evelyn Coffou, DSHA
’24
Dashers celebrate after winning the Midwest Championship final game in April on the way to becoming the eventual National Runner-Up.
I value Coach Chin’s emphasis on self-confidence and perseverance. He always reminds us that the only thing holding us back is our own fears and that we can do anything we put our minds to. He has motivated me to become a better athlete by encouraging me during practice and criticizing me constructively so I can focus on what I need to improve. He encourages me to push my limits in everything I do.”
— Meghan Finerty, DSHA ’24
DSHA Rugby Spring Season A-SIDE SCHEDULE AND RESULTS
Wisconsin Girls’ Rugby State Match
• October 29 | W, 38-7 vs. Catholic Memorial, Wisconsin
Midwest Championship Tournament Elkhart, IN
• April 27 | W, 58-0 vs. Medina High School, Ohio
• April 27 | W, 63-0 vs. St. Joseph Academy, Ohio
• April 28 | W, 32-5 vs. Sparta Rock Academy, Michigan
National Championship Tournament Cottage Grove, WI
• May 18 | W, 72-0 vs. Grandville High School, Michigan
• May 18 | W, 7-5 vs. Meridian High School, Idaho
• May 19 | L, 5-24 vs Eagle High School, Idaho
ous seasons and matches throughout the year, walked over to congratulate them as national runners-up. When he saw the Dashers were disappointed, he was surprised. He took Klein to the side and said, “What a testament it is to your program that second place in the country does not feel good enough for these girls. Well done.” Klein shared, “It was an awesome moment. It reminded me that I’m truly helping these young women become the best they can be and to expect a lot from themselves and each other.”
As for Klein, he also understands that this is bigger than rugby. Klein grew up in a family of four, with his parents and sister having developmental disabilities. He shared that he has “not only lived my life for me, but for four people. My sister and my parents did not get the same opportunities in life. I strive to live my life to the fullest in honor of them.” He shared, “coaching at DSHA, and giving these girls everything that I have, fulfills that obligation to my family. I run for them.”
• The DSHA B-Side JV Rugby Team competed in the Single School Ruby National Championship Tournament as well, securing a 6th place finish with an upset win against Warsaw, Indiana, 25-24
Coaches: John “Chin” Klein , Boris Turcinovic , and Joe Kloiber
The Varsity Ski team secures state runner-up trophy.
This winter, the DSHA Varsity Ski team finished their undefeated regular season with six 1st place finishes and 1st place in the Midwest High School Ski Conference. They qualified to compete in the Wisconsin Alpine Racing Association State Championship on February 18 and 19 where they earned a second place finish and took home the runner-up trophy.
Pictured left to right, Emily Peterson, DSHA ’26 ; Riley Doerr, DSHA ’26 ; Kate Bradford, DSHA ’27 ; Amanda Delcore, DSHA ’24 ; Clare Davis, DSHA ’27 ; Payton Bradford, DSHA ’24 ; and Anne Klaus, DSHA ’25 , represented the team at the state competition. Additionally, Payton Bradford placed third overall as an individual and Kate Bradford placed thirteenth individually. The team also placed first in the slalom and second in the giant slalom.
Midwest High School Ski Conference Place | 1st
Notable Recognitions
National Team Member, Conference Meet Champion, 1st Team All-Conference | Payton Bradford, DSHA ’24
National Team Member | Kate Bradford, DSHA ’27 , and Riley Doerr, DSHA ’26
Team Captains: Payton Bradford, DSHA ’24 , Amanda Delcore, DSHA ’24 ; and Anne Klaus, DSHA ’25
Team Chaplain: Hannah Strachota, DSHA ’25
Coaches: David Denton , Jonathan Davis , and Madalyn Trapp
Throughout the season, I learned that it is so important to have team chemistry. Even though skiing can be such an individual sport and you are the only one racing at a time, it’s important to have a team that cheers you on, supports you, and helps you perform at your best. It was so great to be state runners-up and see all of our hard work pay off. It was also great to see my teammates accomplish so much and I’m excited to continue creating friendships on the team and making a fun atmosphere for everyone.”
—Anne Klaus, DSHA ’25
BASKETBALL
The DSHA Varsity Basketball team won the WIAA Regional Semi-Final game on February 23 when they defeated Manitowoc Lincoln 59-48. The team finished their season when they fell to top-seeded Brookfield East in the WIAA Regional Final game on February 24. DePaul University commit Ally Timm, DSHA ’24 (pictured) became DSHA’s all-time leader in made 3-point baskets this season, finishing her career with 188 total.
Team Captains: Hailey Bachmann, DSHA ’24 ; Ally Timm, DSHA ’24 ; and Karinna Trotter, DSHA ’25
Team Chaplain: Flan O’Keef, DSHA ’24
Coaches: Sean Garczynski , Joe Minessale , and Tyler Frohwirth
GYMNASTICS
The DSHA/West Allis Co-Op Varsity Gymnastics team finished their regular season in fourth place on February 16 at the GMC meet. Following, the team competed in the WIAA Sectional on February 24 and finished in eighth place. In the all-around, Tirza Getty, DSHA ’26 , finished in 20th overall and Lucy Elgersma, DSHA ’26 , finished in 21st.
Great Metro Conference Place: 4th
Team Captains: Dani Riemer, DSHA ’25 , and Sophia Wrench, DSHA ’25 (pictured)
Coaches: Cassandra Westover , Sammie Olson , Kaylee Gessay , and Mara Wells
ICE HOCKEY
The DSHA/University School of MilwaukeeCo-Op Ice Hockey Varsity Team won the WIAA Regional Championship against Brookfield 5-1 on February 16. On February 20, the team also defeated Arrowhead 6-1 to secure the WIAA Sectional semi-final game. DSHA players scored four of the six goals with Charlotte Fetherston, DSHA ’24 (pictured) leading the team with three goals. Eleanor Langenfeld, DSHA ’24 , scored once and goalie Molly Jex, DSHA ’24 , secured a number of impressive saves throughout the game. The team fell to the DePere co-op team in the sectional final on Friday, February 23 to finish the season.
Overall Record: 19-8
Eastern Shores Conference Place: 1st
Notable Recognitions:
2nd Team All-State, 2nd Team All-Conference, Ms. Hockey Finalist | Charlotte Fetherston, DSHA ’24
Honorable Mention All-State, 2nd Team All-Conference, Jessie Vetter Award Finalist | Molly Jex, DSHA ’24
Team Captains: Molly Jex, DSHA Charlotte Fetherston, DSHA ’24
Coaches: Dan Carey
Scan for a full recap of winter athletics highlights, including conference scholar athletes.
SPRING ATHLETICS | HIGHLIGHTS
LACROSSE
The DSHA Varsity Lacrosse team competed in the inaugural WIAA State Tournament series after winning the first Greater Metro Conference Championship during regular season play. The team defeated Franklin 17-3 in the regional semi-final, and then went on to beat Oregon 16-5 in the regional championship. Their season finished on June 1 in the sectional semi-final game against the eventual WIAA State Champions, Kettle Moraine. Captains Maeve Steger, DSHA ’25 , and Eleanor Langenfeld, DSHA ’24 (pictured) each scored their 100th lacrosse career goal during the regular season. Captain Audrey Peterson, DSHA ’24 , also celebrated 100+ career caused turnovers during the season.
After a successful regular season, the DSHA Varsity Soccer team brought home the WIAA Regional Championship on June 1 when they defeated Oshkosh West 1-0. Dashers then won the WIAA Sectional Semi-Final game overcoming Sussex Hamilton 3-1. Alexandra Schneider, DSHA ’25 ; Meghan Quesnell, DSHA ’26 ; and Victoria Gonzalez, DSHA ’25 , each scored a goal during the game. Their season ended in the WIAA Sectional-Final game in an overtime shootout against Brookfield East with a final score of 0-0 (4-5) on June 8.
Record: 12-5-5
GMC Place: 4th Notable Recognitions:
All-Region, 2nd Team All-State, 1st Team All-Conference | Charlotte Fetherston, DSHA ’24
Honorable Mention All-State, 1st Team All-Conference | Victoria Gonzalez, DSHA ’25
2nd Team All-Conference | Evie Eisenbrown, DSHA ’25 ; Lily Filmanowicz, DSHA ’25 ; Mary McLaughlin, DSHA ’25
Team Captains: Gillan Cichy, DSHA ’24 ; Charlotte Fetherston, DSHA ’24 ; Ava Harwood, DSHA ’24 ; Grace Hess, DSHA ’24 ; Addy Leffler, DSHA ’24 ; Madison Wagner, DSHA ’24
Team Chaplain: Charlotte Fetherston, DSHA ’24
Coaches: DSHA Science Faculty Kevin Roethe , Steve Lawrence , and Social Studies Faculty Katie Klinger Leszczynski, DSHA ’10
SOFTBALL
The DSHA Varsity Softball team saw strong play across four grade levels, freshman through senior. Amanda Delcore, DSHA ’24 (pictured) set the DSHA school record for most home runs in a single season with a total of nine. Additionally, Social Studies Faculty & Head Varsity Softball Coach Tom Montgomery was named the Wisconsin Fastpitch Softball Coaches Association Senior All-Star Game Coach.
Overall Record: 10-17
GMC Place: 8th
Notable Recognitions:
1st Team All-Conference | Amanda Delcore, DSHA ’24
Team Captains: Mara Acosta, DSHA ’24 ; Lauren Correa, DSHA ’24 ; Amanda Delcore, DSHA ’24
Coaches: Social Studies Faculty Tom Montgomery , Theology Faculty Danny Pavlovich , and Kaitlyn Lewis
TRACK & FIELD
After a competitive regular season, the DSHA Varsity Track & Field team competed in the Greater Metro Conference Indoor, Relay, and Outdoor Meets. They then moved on to compete in the WIAA State Track & Field Championship Meet June 1-2 at UW-Lacrosse. At the state meet, Dani Riemer, DSHA ’25 (pictured) placed 9th in the long jump, 10th in the 100m hurdles, and 13th in the triple jump. The 4x800-meter relay of Olivia Campbell, DSHA ’24 ; Saylor Masters, DSHA ’25 ; Lydia Packee, DSHA ’27 ; and Ava Johnsen, DSHA ’26 , took 12th. Additionally, the 4x200m-relay team of Ella Sparks, DSHA ’26 ; Elena Sommer, DSHA ’26 ; Ella Dorrington, DSHA ’25 ; and Riemer took 22nd place.
Coaches: Health and Fitness Faculty and Director of Fitness & Performance Brian Calhoun ; Specialized Studies & Mathematics Faculty Libby Wissing DSHA ’10 ; John Danielson ; Dee McCain ; Abby Meidl ; Grady Gosse ; and Bill Mier
Scan for a full recap of spring athletics highlights, including conference scholar athletes.
Honoring Jane Rademacher
Kerwin
† , DS ’64,
and the WENDLICK MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS FUND
The Jane Rademacher Kerwin, DS ’64, and Wendlick Mental Health Awareness Fund was established in 2020. The fund brings experts to DSHA to support mental health and wellness for students, faculty, parents, and members of the wider DSHA community. Kerwin, who passed away in 2022, spoke highly of her time at Divine Savior High School, and credited the experience as one of the major contributing factors to her success in life and career as a female business owner of Jane Kerwin Homes, Ltd. She created the endowed fund to give back to the school that meant so much to her, while also supporting mental health awareness. Endowed funds are permanent trusts that gain interest over the years, allowing DSHA to secure its future and continue commitment to academic excellence and education of the whole person.
Q & A WITH CURRENT PARENT CANDACE WENDLICK, DAUGHTER OF JANE RADEMACHER KERWIN, DS ’64
Why was it important to your mother to start the Jane Rademacher Kerwin, DS ’64, and Wendlick Mental Health Awareness Fund?
My mom loved her time at DS. She graduated in 1964, a time when mental health and wellness wasn’t as widely recognized or discussed. She felt DS was the first school that was able to identify her needs and find ways to help her learn and succeed. When it came time for my mom to give back, she wanted it to center around mental health and identified the school as being an important factor and support system in her life.
You have given back to DSHA and this scholarship for several years. Why has it been important to you personally to give back to the school?
I’ve watched my daughter, Sophia Wendlick, DSHA ’24 , really grow and flourish in her development as a person at DSHA. I’ve seen her develop a sense of confidence, an ability to listen intently to others, and ask questions when needed. I attribute a lot of that growth to the environment she receives at DSHA. The school community and the support the girls receive is so important and vital for their development. I wanted to be part of supporting that positive environment and the opportunities it provides for the girls.
Your mother attended DS, your daughters are a part of the DSHA Classes of 2024 and 2028. Why was it important for you and your family for your daughters to attend school at DSHA?
When I had Sophia, my mom expressed a strong desire for her to go to school at DSHA. When it came time to make the decision, touring the school was a really important factor for us as a family. I was impressed with the current students who were there and how they shared their experiences with us. As a psychotherapist myself, mental health and wellness is extremely important to me. Throughout the tour, we were able to see how important whole-person learning was to the school, the curriculum, and the co-curricular activities offered. Whole-person learning and development was one of the most important factors for us deciding on a school, and to see it reflected as a value of the school was comforting.
Similarly, the Applied Wellness (AW) program feels new and almost like a revolutionary approach to teaching the girls about their own wellness. Having the girls make the choices in what experience they want to participate in throughout the week, and having it prioritized during the school day, is so unique and important.*
community and support in knowing that whatever path they take, they have people to support them.
What impresses you about DSHA today?
What impresses me the most is the openness to understanding others. DSHA creates a dialogue for sharing and trying to gain a better understanding of others’ perspectives, thoughts, and feelings. I think the school has made a conscious effort to focus on relevant social and mental health issues which is great.
What
are your hopes for DSHA in the future?
I want DSHA to continue to be open to hearing from students and parents and working together to keep it a positive, high-academic learning environment. I hope that there is always an openness to hearing the different perspectives and paying attention to each girls’ individual needs.
*The Applied Wellness Program at DSHA mimics how individuals achieve whole-person wellness beyond high school: through reflection, contemplation, planning, and action. The program is a fouryear, school-wide commitment that gives students a variety of wellness experiences, allowing them to learn more about themselves and how to achieve their own wellness. Students can choose experiences within the following categories:
Spiritual health
Intellectual health
What are you hoping this endowed fund does for the young women of DSHA?
I hope it continues to build an awareness of the importance of mental health and provide support to girls who might have mental health needs. I want the fund to encourage them to ask for help when needed and to take advantage of the resources available to them. I believe DSHA makes an effort to focus on mental health issues, and I hope this fund continues to support that work and remove the stigma that can be associated with it.
What are you hoping other young women take away from their DSHA education?
I hope young women learn they have an important role in finding their purpose and path that is meaningful to them and their life. High school is a really important time for them to receive guidance and gain confidence to pursue their passions. I want them to feel a sense of
Physical health
Mental, social, and emotional health
Diversity, equity, and inclusion.
If you would like to donate to DSHA to further our mission of developing young women of faith, heart, and intellect, please visit dsha.info/give or contact Senior Director of Development Matt Johnson at 414.721.2911
Candace Wendlick (left) pictured with her mother Jane Rademacher Kerwin, DS ’64. Kerwin is also pictured on pg. 52 with granddaughter Sophia Wendlick, DSHA ’24.
FAITH FEATURE
Throughout spring semester, DSHA students had multiple opportunities to express and experience their faith—and the faith traditions of others—through different cultural opportunities and encounters. Three students have offered to share first-person reflections on the meaningful faith-meets-culture experiences they had with their fellow Dashers.
ITALY PILGRIMAGE | pg. 24
December 27–January 4, 30 students and five chaperones took part in a Pilgrimage to Italy—a collaborative trip between the DSHA Latin and Campus Ministry departments. The purpose was for students to experience the connection between the traditional and historical roots of Rome and the Christian faith. Dasher Pilgrims visited historical sites in Florence, Assisi, Rome, and Vatican City. Anna Pienkos, DSHA ’25 , reflects on how experiencing her own Catholic faith in a different culture, rich with beauty and history, allowed her to embrace her faith in new and formative ways.
BLACK HISTORY MONTH PRAYER SERVICE | pg. 25
On February 9, students, faculty, and staff gathered for an all-school prayer service to honor Black History Month. The service was organized by the Sisters of Culture (SOC) co-curricular, whose mission is to celebrate the ethnic backgrounds and cultures of the DSHA community, along with discussing contemporary issues through the lens of social and racial justice. SOC worked in collaboration with the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion commission of Student Council. Rooted in prayer, the service included music performed by the SOC Gospel Choir and Grace Fellowship Church (GFC) of Milwaukee, a sermon by GFC Pastor Brenda Calhoun, and student reflections on faith and resilience. Caitlynn Bell, DSHA ’25 , helped choreograph and lead two praise dances performed by SOC, and reflects on the importance and value of her experience.
INTERFAITH PRAYER SERVICE | pg. 26
This year, DSHA celebrated 29 Catholic Masses during the school day. On April 12, a group of DSHA students of other faith traditions organized an all-school Interfaith Prayer Service to share their different spiritual journeys and the ways they pray. The service took place at the beginning of the Easter season and was rooted in seasons of change and renewal. The goal was to emphasize the common values of the various traditions involved, and to come together in solidarity and goodwill to share a spiritual moment of unity. The following religious traditions were represented: non-denominational Christianity, Eastern Orthodox, Judaism, Islam, Hindu, Hmong, and Native American Spirituality, the tradition of Nayeli Mercado, DSHA ’26 , who reflects on the importance of the opportunity to share with the DSHA community.
An Immersive Pilgrimage
BY ANNA PIENKOS, DSHA ’25
Throughout my life, I have grown up and been raised in a Catholic family. It was normal to go to Mass every Sunday, attend Easter and Christmas services, and always be in some form of religion class at my school. However, it wasn’t until this past winter, when I had the opportunity to take part in the Italy Pilgrimage, that I truly and fully realized the beauty that God can create in my life.
Besides being my first time outside of the country, it was amazing to see the similarities in my faith between where I have grown up, compared to that of a completely different country and culture. I began to realize how connected we all are through one central belief. This experience brought me closer to God because it allowed me to be in the heart of where our Catholic faith is rooted. It helped me understand how our Catholic faith, quite literally, is spread across the entire world.
Experiencing my Catholic faith in a different place and culture offered an opportunity that was so special. The beauty that surrounded us in St. Peter’s Square—from the shining gold to the rich architecture—revealed to me how present God is in our lives, as I felt so near to Him in that specific place. Toward the end of our week, we took an underground “Scavi” tour where we were able to see the Necropolis, and see and pray at the tomb of St. Peter underneath St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican. It was inspiring to be in such close proximity to the bones of St. Peter; right next to a part of someone who was one of Jesus’ closest friends and most important apostles. I felt immersed in my faith in a new way. It reminded me how alive God still is within the Catholic Church, as well as in our lives overall.
I am deeply grateful for the chance to have experienced this trip. My sister has special needs, and is wheelchair dependent, so our family dynamics can often make traveling far away difficult. While I found myself wishing that I could share my moments in Italy with my family, and especially my sister, the trip allowed me the time to be grateful for the opportunities I have in my position. Not everyone has the privilege to experience different cultures and places, or live out formative faith opportunities in such a special and impactful way. Through this experience I was able to gain a deeper appreciation for the smaller aspects of life that my sister and many others may never have. I have felt such a
Anna Pienkos, DSHA ’25 (first row, fifth from left) poses with fellow Italy Pilgrims in Assisi on the 800th anniversary of St. Francis of Assisi’s miracle of the crèche (also known as a Nativity scene) – a tradition started by St. Francis in 1223 at Christmas Eve Mass. Later that day, Dashers visited the "Porzinucula" or "little chapel" at the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli and then attended Mass at the Basilica of St. Francis with pilgrims from all over the world.
profound sense of gratitude for my sister and family, and for the life-changing perspective of our pilgrimage to Italy.
My faith has always been present, but the immersive nature of this pilgrimage—in an unfamiliar place—gave me the opportunity to discover a part of myself that I did not know was there. I was opened to how much I need and want God in my life, because He is the one constant that I can turn to when in search of hope, love, and forgiveness. The presence of God and the closeness that I felt to Him on this trip is something I will carry with me for the rest of my life.
Inviting the Presence of God
BY CAITLYNN BELL, DSHA ’ 25
My faith is extremely important to me as it has been one of the most unwavering factors in my life. Despite what I may encounter, I strive to be a walking testimony of who God is and what He can do. While growing up, it was strongly encouraged that my sisters and I establish our own personal relationships with Christ. Since then, I’ve found that it is important, as a people under God, that we walk by faith and not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7).
I am heavily involved in ministry at my church, Christian Faith Fellowship in Milwaukee, where I serve as a praise dancer. Here at DSHA, I’ve had the opportunity to express my faith and culture both through choreographing praise dances with Nala Johnson, DSHA ’24 , for our Black History Month Prayer Service, along with singing in the SOC Gospel Choir for the past three years. I see it necessary to help students understand how far Black people have come and where we are going. The best way I know to do so is to present ourselves as a community and share our intimate moments with others and with God through the unity we find in communal prayer. I always say a personal prayer before going on stage to dance or sing, and I ask God to “use me as your instrument of praise.” I want to be able to impact the lives of those receiving Him by using the abilities given to me; I do not want anything to be done in vain or for personal glory.
It is impactful to worship God through such unique cultural experiences. They permit us as students to glorify God in a way that may be different or unfamiliar to the faith traditions of others. It is a space where we all learn and grow. I love that DSHA prioritizes these cultural and prayerful services such as the Black History Month Prayer Service, Our Lady of Guadalupe Mass, Interfaith Prayer, and others as well. I value that I have had many opportunities to be a part of these services as a way of presenting as a member of our powerful SOC community filled with young, purposeful, God-fearing women.
It was important for me to share my gifts with the rest of the school (outside of SOC) at the Black History Month Prayer Service because I knew that through my devotion and personal walk of faith, I could help guide others in the school community into a reflection of their own perception
of who God is, and we can all learn from one another. It is not about being seen on stage, but about inviting the presence of God to fill the atmosphere. It is about the exaltation of God.
Serving throughout the years has allowed my relationship with God to grow. I am not perfect, and neither is my walk with Him, but I know that whenever I dance for His glory or sing His praises, I feel complete. In those moments, I am complete. I know that God has given me a purpose, and by faith I can fulfill that purpose. My experiences have allowed me to realize that no one person in SOC and no one person in the school community is separated from the rest; we are all one. We are one as a people, we are one under God, we are one as a school, and for SOC, we are one as a minority in our school—and all together as a school community we should seek to celebrate differences and find beauty in unity, as we take opportunities to better understand each other as one sisterhood and one Body in Christ.
Caitlynn Bell, DSHA ’25 (far left), dances to the praise song I Will Trust You with Dashers during the Black History Month Prayer Service. Bell choreographed the dance along with Nala Johnson, DSHA ’24.
Reflection and Renewal
BY NAYELI MERCADO, DSHA ’26
Iam Nayeli Mercado and I am a tribally enrolled member of the Choctaw Tribe of Oklahoma and a descendent of the Menominee Tribe of Wisconsin.
As our Interfaith co-curricular discussed possible topics for our spring prayer service, Mrs. (Cynthia) Blaze (Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) encouraged us to think through the idea of regrowth and renewal. At the time, Catholics were in the season of Lent and would be in the season of Easter during our service, so we widened the topic since many religions and faiths hold significance to the idea of renewal during spring time. From that understanding, we decided on ‘color and light’ as a framework for sharing about renewal and spiritual growth.
In Native American culture and spirituality, the Earth is at the center of all creation, thanks, and prayers. Agnes Wichgers, DSHA ’26 , and I decided to share about the Medicine Wheel, an important symbol in many Native American cultures. It represents the interconnectedness of all life, the cycles of nature (and renewal), and the four main directions (often symbolizing stages of life, aspects of being, seasons, elements, or sacred medicines.) Each direction is associated with a color. These colors can vary among different tribes, but commonly include black, white, red, and yellow. Through the Medicine Wheel, one can see a reflection of the balanced view of life's phases and purposes as described in Ecclesiastes 3:1-8, our scripture passage that guided the interfaith service as a whole.
We reminded everyone that life is ever-changing and cyclical, and that as it says in Ecclesiastes, there is a time for everything, and that making time for reflection is important for renewal in all of our spiritualities. We led an interactive reflection with traditional flute music in the background, asking others: “What time is it for you? And what do you need to live abundantly?”
The opportunity to share at this service helped me reflect on my own past and renewal. As Natives in Milwaukee, my family had minimal resources. Yet as the city grew, so did our community and the Indian Community School (ICS) was founded to support Native youth in and around the Milwaukee area. I attended the ICS from grades K3-8, and through a scholarship offered by ICS, I was able to choose a private school that I felt fit me.
Nayeli Mercado, DSHA ’26 (right) shares the significance of the Medicine Wheel to Native American Spirituality with Dashers during the spring semester Interfaith Prayer Service. Other faiths represented included non-denominational Christianity, Eastern Orthodox, Judaism, Islam, Hindu, and Hmong.
After applying to multiple high schools I decided on DSHA, because it represented a welcoming beginning and renewal at a turn I was fearful to take. I had never been to a new school, and I am one of only two girls who came to DSHA from my ICS class. When I shadowed and toured, I was told there was a place for everyone at DSHA. I have found this to be true as I joined Furia Latina (co-curricular) and was able to connect to my Puerto Rican culture, as well. Yet as I finished my freshman year in 2023 and renewed my scholarship application, I was reminded of the other aspect of what makes me feel whole—my Native heritage. This remained in the back of my mind and as I entered sophomore year, I was offered the opportunity to join the Interfaith co-curricular and represent my culture once again. I participated in the fall interfaith prayer service, and although nervous at first, I became proud as I shared my culture with the school. When the spring service came around, I was excited and confident, rather than nervous. Going from a school where my culture was involved in everyday life, to then being disconnected daily, has been hard for me. However, the Interfaith Prayer Service has given me a platform to share some of the teachings of Native American Culture and Spirituality; that had previously been a daily part of my life for ten years, and allowed me to connect my communities. It has helped me feel whole again.
THE DSHA MARIAN SCHOLARS PROGRAM AT-A-GLANCE
This program is a student-centered, inclusive education program for girls with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. The program supports the belief that all students deserve opportunities to maximize their academic, social, and spiritual potential.
Marian Scholars participate in all aspects of the DSHA community—from general education classes, to Mass, retreats, dances, concerts, school plays, and more.
Marian Scholars split their days between small group resource hour instruction in the Marian Scholars classroom, and time in general education classrooms with other students.
Marian Scholars faculty work with classroom teachers to make modifications to curriculum and guide teachers on creating inclusive classroom connections.
Marian Scholars are paired with a peer mentor for each class period and activity throughout the day to help engage the scholar in class, implement curriculum modifications, and lend other supports as needed.
Peer mentors have typically previously taken the class they support. They receive Specialized Studies credit for serving as a peer mentor with the option of enrolling as a dual-college-credit course through Mt. Mary University.
THE JOURNEY OF DSHA’S FIRST MARIAN SCHOLAR
M I A R U G E , D S H
by Molly Shea
Mia Ruge, DSHA ’24, is a masterclass in human connection. As described by her classmates and teachers, she is genuine, brave, and spunky. She is curious and interested in the lives of others—she loves to ask questions. She loves freely. She is cheerful, uplifting, and full of life. She is goodness and kindness.
In the fall of 2020, Mia became DSHA’s first Marian Scholar; and this spring, she was the first to complete a full four-year course of study at DSHA. This spring, Mia accepted her certificate of completion as she walked the stage at graduation with her classmates to rounds of applause and tears that marked the collective gratitude for the gift of who she is and all she has taught the DSHA community at large.
MIA’S JOURNEY
Mia was born in Lanxi, China and lived her first four years in an orphanage. Her parents, Mark and Mary Ruge, describe her situation as living with “every imaginable deficit.” She slept on a board in an institutional setting, and lived these years without healthcare, love, or nurture, and with very little food.
The Ruges have two older sons, and also knew they wanted to adopt. Mary describes her first meeting with Mia: “When this child was put before us, we felt a calling and that we could handle this. When we met her, we had a couple of moments that were very overwhelming,” she shares, noting that when Mia was placed with them, she had no known language or speaking ability at the time. “We thought we
could give her a home and a family. It took a while for her to get comfortable with us, but we could see that she was going to be a strong person who would choose joy.”
Mark adds, “It is not lost on us that since being at DSHA, she has received four years of surplus compared to what she lost her first four years in the orphanage.”
A SEARCH FOR INCLUSIVE EDUCATION
The Ruges moved to Milwaukee from the Washington, D.C., area when Mia was in 4th grade. They hoped for a Catholic school for Mia, who has a form of autism spectrum disorder which affects how she learns and processes the world around her. They found St. Roberts in Shorewood—known and honored for having a beloved inclusive education program in the K4-8 school.
“I am a product of Catholic education and so are our boys. I felt Mia deserved that, too, and would benefit from exploring her own spiritual journey,” Mary shares. “I wanted her to have the whole-child education and to have it with other children.”
Under the leadership of Principal Lauren Beckmann, the Ruges had a wonderful experience at St. Roberts. When Mia started her 7th grade year, they began thinking about high school. At the time, there were no inclusive, Catholic education program options in Wisconsin at the high school level, so they visited their local public high school.
HEART FEATURE
AH“They had the biggest, heaviest doors. Mia couldn’t even open them,” Mark shares of the visit. “It was symbolic of the question we started to ask, ‘How is this even going to work? How is our daughter going to survive here?’”
So, the Ruges went to work.
BUILDING THE MARIAN SCHOLARS PROGRAM
During Mia’s 7th grade year (2018-19) they called Dr. Kathleen Cepelka (current DSHA Board Member), who was at the time, Superintendent of Schools for the Archdiocese of Milwaukee, and asked if any of the high schools would consider adding an inclusive education program.
“She thought it was a great idea and immediately put us in touch with Bruce Varick (Associate Superintendent of Catholic Schools for the Archdiocese of Milwaukee),” Mark says. “We found a conference on inclusion in California sponsored by The National Catholic Board on Full Inclusion that Bruce attended. He loved it and came back to share with the principals (in the archdiocese).” This included Principal Dan Quesnell, unknown to the Ruges at the time, who had already been thinking about how an inclusive education program could benefit DSHA.
“At this point, we knew we had support from the archdiocese, it was a matter of convincing one of the high schools,” Mark says, noting it was a mighty ask and largely dependent on resources and adequate staffing, but also schoolwide support. “This kind of program only works if everyone—support staff to board—is all in.”
The Ruges made an appointment with Quesnell during the 2018-19 school year and were especially grateful for his interest in the meeting (after running into roadblocks in their search to speak with other schools along the way.) “Dan told us he’d had this in his heart for a while, and then we showed up,” Mark shares, noting it felt like a bit of miracle that things were starting to align.
“That conversation felt different to us—and hopeful. As we began to work with Dan we started to feel this could be one of the great blessings of Mia’s life,” Mary adds, also pointing to the support and alignment of President Katie Konieczny, DSHA ’92, who was in her first full year as president of DSHA, and had previously led a school in Chicago with a special education program.
RADICAL INCLUSION
The Ruges and Quesnell got to work and began doing research on models for Catholic inclusion programs at various high schools throughout the country, including faculty, administrator, and student site visits to schools in Tennessee, Maryland, and Virginia.
The common theme to emerge from the collective research among successful programs was the peer mentor model. “It allows every aspect
Mia Ruge, DSHA ’24, celebrates graduation with (left to right) Marian Scholars Faculty Gretchen Creten Caraher, DSHA ’93, and Kate Jirschle; Director of Marian Scholars Mary Anderson; and Executive Administrative Assistant Dawn Hathaway
of the school day to be accessible,” Mark shares. “As we worked with DSHA, we knew that this could be a place where she could have a full high school experience—a place where she could experience radical inclusion.”
On March 17, 2020, the DSHA Board of Directors approved the implementation of the Marian Scholars Program for the upcoming year. The Ruges received the call the Friday before school transitioned to online learning. That summer, two experienced faculty were hired, Director of the Marian Scholars Program Mary Anderson, and Marian Scholars Faculty Gretchen Creten Caraher, DSHA ’93. And in the fall of 2020, the freshman class would begin a year of hybrid learning, and Mia entered a community she would change forever—in all the best ways.
BECOMING A DASHER
Anderson and Caraher first met Mia the summer of 2020 in the Ruge’s driveway—Mia was reading an Amelia Bedelia book and all were masked. “All
of my questions were put at bay the second we met Mia,” Anderson shares. “She was delightful, and I immediately knew this was something we could do.”
During the 2020-21 school year, students engaged in both in-school and online learning during the height of COVID. On Mia’s three days per week at home, Anderson and Caraher worked with her in-person from the Ruge’s back patio. It was not the ideal start for beginning of the program, but in hindsight, it allowed Mia a chance to connect with her teachers in a familiar environment and helped her learn and navigate Microsoft Teams. (Teams has become an essential component to Mia’s friendships and peer-to-peer connections. Throughout her four years, she has used it much like other teenagers might use text messaging to engage with her friends.)
On the days Mia was at school, she attended her classes with peer mentors, while Anderson and Caraher continued to work with her one-on-one during her resource hours in the Marian Scholars classroom. Mia continued to grow in her reading and writing abilities—she has become a very strong writer—along with growing socially, in her independence, and self-confidence.
GROWTH THROUGH FRIENDSHIPS
During Mia’s sophomore year, she was joined by two additional Marian Scholars. Her junior year, four more scholars and Marian Scholars Faculty Kate Jirschele joined the program. As the program grew, and the limitations of COVID lessened, Mia’s relationships grew in abundance.
“The biggest area I have seen Mia flourish has been in her social skills. She’s had all of these models and sees what her peer mentors are doing,” Mary shares with gratitude. “She’s learned conversational skills and to connect in her friendships. She’s also grown in her empathy and in her spiritual journey, too.”
Mark adds, “We cannot put a value on what Mia’s peer mentors have provided all four years—they are the secret sauce. These high school juniors and seniors have been so kind and nurturing to Mia. She has truly felt part of the sisterhood.”
Mary and Mark point out that Mia’s peer mentors are not simply students who have been assigned to her. “These are real friendships,” says Mary. “It is not just people giving to Mia. She is giving back—a wonderful give and take.”
Mark adds, “The thing about being a handicapped child, is that it is much more difficult to make friends. Even average friends would be sensational. But the difference we've had here, between the way she is blossoming and what it could be if she had no friends, is vast.”
Mia’s Marian Scholar teachers agree and have loved seeing her confidence and independence soar as her friendships grew. In her first couple of years, Mia needed assistance getting around the building. She would take trips with her peer mentors to visit some of her favorites, including Executive Administrative Assistant Dawn Hathaway to do a special handshake in the front office; Dining Services Supervisor Connie Hanson to see what was for lunch; retired Social Studies Faculty Sue Goulee whose room was down the hall; Campus Ministry for all the fun; and the entire Student Services Staff (whom she calls “the squad”) for hugs and to look at the school calendar and talk about the week. Over time, she began to navigate some of these outings on her own.
“To watch Mia her senior year shows how much she has learned,” Caraher says. “It wasn’t always easy for her. The thing people may not know is Mia is very resilient and willing to keep trying even when it was hard the day before. I admire her positive outlook and her enthusiasm. Here we are senior year, and she is so confident—in her friendships, her reading, her writing. I am so proud of her in so many ways.”
Jirschele adds that in the past two years she has noticed a fearlessness in Mia as she makes her way around school. “She will walk past a group of girls and use the same phrases she hears them say, but she will initiate it. ‘Hey girl!’ or ‘10 out of 10!’ or ‘Aced it!’. Mia makes people feel like they belong."
AN ID BADGE OF HONOR
Everywhere Mia went in the building, she loved to look at the school-issued ID cards given to faculty, staff, and students each year. Early on, it was a way
for her to connect with others and learn names. It was also a way for her to see full faces given she started school when all were masked. She loved to see an ID, read the name of the person, look them in the eye, and then back at the ID. The IDs represented connection.
Over time, Hathaway began to print out extra IDs for Mia of friends, faculty, and staff. Over the course of four years, these IDs evolved from something that simply shared information, to a representation of people she loved. She kept them on a large metal ring, and as graduation neared, more IDs were added—a collection of friends that will go with her well after her time at DSHA is complete. (Caraher has since surprised her with a book to place her IDs in as a graduation present.)
A TRIO OF BEST FRIENDS
Two of the most special friendships Mia has formed are with the best friend duo of Stacy Ramirez, DSHA ’24, and Melanie Sanchez, DSHA ’24. The girls met their freshman year; they knew of Mia at this time but did not have a chance to meet her until sophomore year due to hybrid learning. Sanchez was Mia’s peer mentor their junior year during her Applied Wellness hour. This meant lots of board games, puzzles, and simply talking to get to know one another when not in a structured wellness experience. Ramirez had a study hall that hour and joined as often as possible.
“It was such a genuine friendship,” Ramirez says. “Mia became the light to our day that year.”
Mia started inviting Sanchez and Ramirez to her home for regular girls’ nights. They ate Chipotle or Qdoba, and spent time hanging out—decorating cookies, playing games, or just being together as friends do.
The last week of school at the Farewell Assembly, seniors were given superlatives as voted on by their class. Sanchez and Ramirez were voted “dynamic duo,” though they both had a similar reaction: “We think of ourselves as more of a three musketeers with Mia,” said Ramirez.
Both girls have an ongoing list of things they love and admire about Mia, though they point to what they have learned from her. Ramirez has learned how to be bold in initiating friendships from
watching Mia do the same, saying, “Yes, people are going to be different, but watching her be so inclusive across friend groups and seeing how it is received so positively has showed me to do the same. She’s taught me to give people the benefit of the doubt.”
Sanchez adds, “Her confidence is amazing. She is so comfortable and unapologetically herself. It can be hard trying to fit in, and Mia just shows up innately as she is, without ever forcing anything.”
Based on their last names, Mia and Sanchez sat next to each other at graduation; Sanchez helped Mia navigate the ceremony. The week prior, Sanchez was asked, “What does it mean that you get to sit next to Mia on such a special day?” Her answer was the epitome of a true teenage friendship, stated with zero pretense and in the most matter-of-fact tone: “I’m just glad I get to sit next to one of my best friends.”
THE LAST DAY OF SCHOOL
Twice daily, DSHA holds all-school prayer over the intercom. A faculty or staff will say one of the prayers, and the other is read by a student. This was one of Mia’s favorite ways to engage with the community, and an area that helped her grow in her spiritual journey and in confidence. On the last day of school, Mia prayed over the intercom for a final time. Anderson introduced Mia and shared that this prayer was special, as one Mia wrote herself with gratitude for
her time at DSHA. It is perhaps, the best representation of her thoughts about her four years of high school:
Dear Jesus,
Thank you for giving us DSHA and for all the girls who go there. Thank you for all the different programs at DSHA. Thank you for the Marian Scholars Program.
Thank you for giving us Room 113 and everyone who comes to hang out with us there. They teach, listen to us, eat with us, play Uno with us, and a lot more. Thank you for helping us to learn from each other in Room 113.
Thank you for giving us the best Marian Scholar teachers. Thank you for the classroom teachers who welcome everyone into their classrooms and help us learn in our own way.
Thank you for everyone in Student Services, Campus Ministry, the main office, and the cafeteria who are all special friends of the Marian Scholars. They give us treats, ask about our day, add to our name tag collections, and they dance with us.
Thank you for the administrators who do a lot for the Marian Scholars Program and all the programs at DSHA.
Please, Jesus, help us to include everyone in learning and growing together always.
Amen.
Mia Ruge, DSHA ’24, poses at graduation with best friends, Melanie Sanchez, DSHA ’24 (middle) and Stacy Ramirez, DSHA ’24 (right.)
This prayer will be published in the DSHA Prayer Book and hang in classrooms this fall.
MIA’S BRIGHT FUTURE
Mia celebrated Baccalaureate Mass and Senior Honors night with her classmates. She was honored as the first Marian Scholar to complete a four-year course of study, accompanied by a standing ovation and a room full of tears of gratitude. The following day she celebrated graduation with her class. Before graduation, the class of 2024 gathered in a room together. Mia was in the sisterhood mix of love, laughter, hugs, and selfies. She was at home in a community she has helped become more whole and complete.
The Ruges moved to the Cincinnati area right after graduation for Mark’s job. Mia will continue her education there at Warren County Educational Center, a vocationally-focused public school.
The Ruges, along with Mia’s friends and teachers, are so very hopeful for her future. Sanchez and Ramirez know she will make great friends and plan to visit her soon. Anderson can see her working in a social setting, “Maybe a greeter in a hotel lobby or at a restaurant—she loves food!” Mark jokes, “Really, we need to figure out how to make sure she did not peak in high school! This has been the perfect place for her.”
Mary adds this: “We did not know how impactful the all-girls environment would be for Mia. Her love for her friendships, the way she lights up talking about her peer mentors—our daughter has been able to be a regular teenage girl. This was the perfect school for her. Her future is bright because of how she has been loved here.”
The Makings of a Valedictorian
GRADE SCHOOL
St. Charles Catholic School, Hartland
COLLEGE PLANS
University of Notre Dame, Finance
Kate Krueger
DSHA CLASS OF 2024 CO-VALEDICTORIAN
DSHA ACTIVITIES + INVOLVEMENT
Student Athletic Advisory Council, elected secretary
Varsity Golf, team captain
NHS Tutor
Freshman Retreat Leader
Co-Curriculars: Latin Club, Hometown Heroes, HOSA—Future Health Professionals
Student Recruiters
Vocare Service Site: Penfield Children’s Center
SIGNIFICANT DSHA EXPERIENCES
Winning the 2024 WIAA Golf State Championship
“This is my closest group of friends at school—we are such a tight knit community and have bonded over such incredible shared experiences.”
AP Biology with Science Dept. Chair Stacey Strandberg
AWARDS AND RECOGNITIONS
National Honor Society
WIAA Scholar Athlete
GMC Scholar Athlete
WIAA Golf: Team State Champion + 3rd Team
All-State + 1st Team
All-Conference
DSHA STEM Scholar
“This class was very hands on and interactive and Mrs. Strandberg has been so helpful in the development of my confidence and encouraging me to challenge myself. And all of her professional accomplishments are so inspiring to me.”
Student Athletic Advisory Council
“This has helped me grow in my understanding of what it means to be a leader. It’s been great to connect with people from other sports and grow as leaders and teammates together.”
Scan to view Krueger’s Valedictorian speech.
AP & DUAL COLLEGE CREDIT COURSES TAKEN
AP Calculus (BC)
AP Biology
AP Chemistry
AP English Language & Composition
AP English Literature & Composition
AP U.S. Government & Politics
AP U.S. History
Latin Poetry: Vergil, University of Minnesota
Survey of World Religions, Marquette University
Christian Faith & Justice, Marquette University
Valedictorian
with Kate Krueger, DSHA ’24, and Abby Quesnell, DSHA ’24
A REFLECTION ON FOUR YEARS IN FOUR QUESTIONS.
Q
How have you grown since being at DSHA?
“My communication skills have grown so much. I’ve become more confident, but the shift has been gradual. My teachers have been so supportive. I’ll never forget a presentation I did on Catcher in the Rye my sophomore year. It was a moment when I realized we were all in the same boat of figuring out high school together. My faith has also grown here. One of the reasons I wanted to go to Notre Dame was to be able to openly practice my faith.”
Q Tell us about a challenge you navigated in high school and what you learned?
“Math has been the hardest subject for me and doesn’t always come as naturally as others. I’ve spent a lot of time studying with others in the library to prepare (for class and exams.) In the fall with golf, I had to miss at least one class (of AP BC Calc) a week. I learned so much about time management and the importance of getting things done when I can.”
Q What have you loved most about the all-girls experience?
“DSHA is a judgement-free zone. The girls are all very driven and we care a lot about and depend on each other. We are safe to try out different things without feeling like we have to have it all together. A big part of being ready for college is knowing who you are, and so much of that has come from the confidence we gain in the all-girls environment.”
As a graduating senior, Kate's ability to understand and respond thoughtfully to literature stands out as superb and is reflective of her academic capability across all disciplines. As late as the last week of school, Kate and I were discussing her final essay for AP Literature as she sought feedback to be her best. This, combined with humility, grace, and kindness marks Kate Krueger as an individual, and will certainly serve her well at university and beyond.”
— English Department Chair and Faculty Andy Lelinski
Q
What advice do you have for freshmen looking to get the most out of high school in the way you have?
“You have to embrace forming connections. Reach out and make new friends with everyone you can. No one has it all figured out on day one. I was really hard on myself as a freshman. It is good to have drive and want to succeed, but you should also be forgiving of yourself and willing to ask for help! Don’t be afraid to ask questions in class. One thing I learned at DSHA is to use ALPHA (Academic Learning Place for Higher Achievement) time and reach out to teachers when you need extra help. I will be doing that at Notre Dame next year—I’ve seen how helpful and important it is in high school.”
Turn the page to read about Abby Quesnell, DSHA ’24. >
The Makings of a Valedictorian
GRADE SCHOOL
Holy Apostles Catholic School, New Berlin
COLLEGE PLANS
University of Wisconsin, Electrical Engineering
AWARDS AND RECOGNITIONS
National Merit Commended Student
National Honor Society
GMC Scholar Athlete
Concours Oral: WI French Speaking Contest, A rating
Co-Curriculars: Math Club, Climbing Club, Ski Club
Student Recruiters
Vocare Service Site: Village at Manor Park
SIGNIFICANT DSHA EXPERIENCES
Athletics + Fine Arts
“Cross Country, Track & Field, and Divine Strings have all been such a big part of my experience. They have become as much about the community as what we are doing.”
French Immersion Trip with World Languages Faculty
Eileen Gleeson
“It was amazing to experience the French culture, stay with a family, go to school, and experience day-to-day life. Madame is so invested in us and in her teaching, too. I learned so much.”
AP Computer Science with Specialized Studies & Mathematics
Faculty Connie Farrow
“The content was so challenging. I loved trying to figure out how to program something to be able to accomplish the goal.”
AP & DUAL COLLEGE CREDIT COURSES TAKEN
AP Calculus (BC)
AP Chemistry
AP Computer Science A
AP Physics C Mechanics
Intermediate French, UW-Whitewater
Contemporary Literature, UW-Whitewater
U.S. Foreign Policy, Cardinal Stritch University
Survey of World Religions, Marquette University
Christian Faith & Justice, Marquette University
Valedictorian
CONTINUED
with Kate Krueger, DSHA ’24, and Abby Quesnell, DSHA ’24
A REFLECTION ON FOUR YEARS IN FOUR QUESTIONS.
How have you grown since being at DSHA?
“I have grown so much in my confidence—both with my peers and in general. Community has been so important to this. I’ve liked STEM classes since middle school, but some of the more challenging classes here have become especially tight. We get confused together and then work to figure things out together.”
Q Tell us about a challenge you navigated in high school and what you learned?
“I’ve had to work really hard in my English classes, especially my first few years. I was a slow writer and it was hard for me to put ideas on paper at times. I learned that my work doesn’t always need to be perfect and sometimes I just need to give it a try and go back later. I’ve learned so much about good work ethic and working through challenges. This will definiely help me when I get into more engineering classes in college.”
Q What have you loved most about the all-girls experience?
“This has been all about confidence and leadership for me. I know I’m ready for what is next because of how I’ve grown in the all-girls environment. I’ve tried things I’m not sure I would have at a different school. I definitely feel ready to study engineering (a male-dominated field) because of the rigorous classes here and the way they have prepared me. I’ve had the chance to take engineering, statistics, Auto-CAD, computer science, and all of my AP math and science classes. I know I’m ready for college because I’ve been taking college level classes and have learned I can work through the material even when it is really challenging. I know I’m ready and I know I’ll fit in great!”
Q
Q What advice do you have for freshmen looking to get the most out of high school in the way you have?
“Branch out and talk to people—a lot of people are just as nervous as you are! Don’t be afraid to try new things—even leadership positions before you think you are ready. Trust your teachers and ask for their help—they want the best for you. This is especially true when things seem hard. They are probably hard for everyone else too and you are not alone. Lean on each other and your teachers and you will be great.”
Abby absorbs and applies every concept, every idea, every vocabulary word smoothly and confidently. She is the quintessential Renaissance woman. She is planning to study engineering in college—a demanding program, but determined to squeeze in a minor in French, as well. And let’s not forget her impressive running abilities and musical talent, and she manages to balance all her interests and responsibilities in the most calm and cheerful way. It is time for her to go put all these gifts to use on a broader scale.”
— World Languages
Faculty Madame Eileen Gleeson
CELEBRATING RETIREMENT
OF RETIRING WORLD LANGUAGES FACULTY JOSÉ HURTADO PÉREZ
By Erin McCarville
From participating in Airband (a favorite DSHA event where students and staff lip sync to popular music on stage in the Robert & Marie Hansen Family Fine Arts Theatre), hosting students at his home for Paella Parties with his wife, Christina Thiele, DSHA Librarian , arriving at 7 a.m. each morning to make himself available for Dashers, and creating a personal podcast for his classes, Retiring World Languages Faculty José Hurtado Pérez has made a lasting impact on Dashers. Teaching at DSHA for over a decade, he has integrated himself into the Dasher community and the lives of his students with a style unique to his array of life experiences.
Before his teaching career in the United States, Hurtado Pérez graduated as a Lieutenant in the Spanish Naval Academy and served as a professor there for a number of years. During that time, he met Thiele, who was studying abroad, and the two were married in 1983. Hurtado Pérez then spent three years with the Spanish Secret Service until retiring as Lieutenant Commander in 1993 and moving to the United States.
“We wanted to be closer to Christina’s family,” he explained about the move. “I started studying education at UW-Milwaukee right away and received an emergency license from Milwaukee Public Schools to teach elementary level Spanish.” Hurtado Pérez graduated with a B.A. in Education from UW-Milwaukee and an MA in Computer Education from Cardinal Strich. He first taught at Albert E. Kagel Elementary School for three years before teaching Spanish at Casimir Pulaski High School from 1998 through 2011. He then accepted a World Languages Faculty position at DSHA.
He laughed while he recalled securing the job at DSHA.
He stated, “My wife got me the job!” Thiele was at DSHA to interview for the open Librarian position when staff mentioned they were looking for a Spanish teacher. She told them her husband taught Spanish, and Hurtado Pérez was brought in for an interview and offered the position shortly thereafter.
“I have loved teaching at an all-girls school. The kindness of the students here is not something I’d experienced before,” he shares. “I just love the environment here, and the students work really hard to succeed.”
The sense of community at DSHA, as well as the college-prep academics, convinced Hurtado Pérez and Thiele to send their daughter to DSHA. He stated, “As soon as we started working here, we knew we wanted Mae (HurtadoThiele, DSHA ’20 ) to have this type of education.”
He continued, “I got to be part of Mae’s day-to-day life. We would eat lunch together and she would stop by my classroom to talk. It was amazing to watch her thrive academically. It was special to see her walk across the stage at DSHA Graduation. It’s one of my favorite memories,” he shared. “With her DSHA Dual-Credit and AP courses, she was able to graduate from UW—Madison with 157 college credits in only three years (students need 120 to graduate with an undergraduate degree).”
Hurtado Pérez not only connected with his daughter at DSHA, but with all of his students. He shared, “I will miss the girls keeping me young and alive.” He continued “they entered my classroom each day laughing and asking me about my dog Paco.” Paco, the family yorkie, became famous due to the Paco Taco podcast he created as a way for his students to practice translation. Paco served as the
marketing image for the podcast and was featured prominently in the stories. “I wanted the girls to share their stories and lives with me and their peers during class,” he shared. He modeled that behavior by doing it himself. He stated, “I’ve been writing a book about the story of my life (in Spanish) but fictionalized. I bring in excerpts for the girls to read and translate. It’s great practice for them, and I get feedback on my work!”
In retirement, Hurtado Pérez hopes to continue working on his book, spending time with his family, friends, and dog, and diving deeper into his passions of Spanish and military history.
Pictured left to right: DSHA Librarian Christina Thiele, Mae HurtadoThiele, DSHA ’20, and Señor Hurtado Pérez at the 2020 DSHA Graduation.
HOW HAS SEÑOR HURTADO PÉREZ IMPACTED YOU?
Señor has helped me enhance my Spanish vocabulary and become more comfortable using the language. He’s also helped me to learn how to joke around in Spanish and always makes classes fun and engaging. I’m so happy I’ve had him because I felt prepared for the AP test.”
— Gloria Alvarado-Lopez, DSHA ’25
You can tell Señor really cares about us and wants to make sure we not only understand the language and grammar aspect of the Spanish, but the issues taking place there and other areas of the world. The material he gives us in class is advanced and challenging so that we are prepared for the AP exam and not surprised by the content we might face. It’s special to have a teacher that genuinely wants to hear about us and our stories and is very understanding."
— Shawntel Rodriguez Cavero, DSHA ’24
Señor encourages us to get outside of our comfort zone and not be afraid to embrace the language and culture. He's been so supportive as a teacher and really wants us to succeed and do well. He's helped me gain so much confidence in Spanish and become more inquisitive and curious about the language."
— Gisela Adelson, DSHA ’26
JOSÉ HURTADO PÉREZ AT-A-GLANCE:
Years teaching: 29
Years at DSHA: 13
Classes taught: Spanish III, IV, and V AP Spanish (for native Spanish speakers)
Co-curriculars moderated: Furia Latina
What he will miss most about DSHA: “I’m going to miss my coworkers and I’m going to miss the girls keeping me young. The connections that you make with the students, those are the ones I am going to miss.”
Favorite quote: “Be humble and kind.” —Tim McGraw
Family: Hurtado Pérez has been married to DSHA Librarian Christina Thiele since 1983. They have two sons and a Dasher daughter Mae Hurtado Thiele, DSHA ‘20. He has six grandchildren, with a seventh arriving in June!
He’s loyal, calm, and a steady pillar. He talks a lot of Spanish with the girls and tries hard to make it fun and enjoyable for them. He makes himself available to them whenever needed, and spends so much time correcting papers and preparing lesson plans. I will never forget when the students made a t-shirt with all of his favorite sayings on it. He allows humor and connection into the classroom, and it really shows when the girls respond with something like that.”
— DSHA Librarian Christina Thiele
Education: Lieutenant of the Logistics Branch, Spanish Naval Academy B.A. in Education, UW-Milwaukee MA in Computer Education, Cardinal Stritch
TO THE CLASS OF 2024
Blessings & Congratulations TO YOU ON YOUR
GRADUATION! GRADUATION!
On Friday, May 24, the DSHA Class of 2024 was honored for the culmination of their high school education at the Miller High Life Theatre in the presence of family, friends, the Sisters of the Divine Savior, and the DSHA faculty, staff, and administration. The night before, graduates celebrated with a Baccalaureate Mass and a senior awards presentation. The following Wednesday, the newest alumnae of DSHA celebrated with a Graduate Dinner Dance at The Marcus Center for Performing Arts in Milwaukee.
Scan to read full prayer.
DSHA CLASS OF 2024
CLASS OF 2024 VALEDICTORIANS
Co-Valedictorians Kate Krueger, DSHA ’24 (left) and Abigail Quesnell, DSHA ’24 (right) earned the role of representing their class at graduation for holding the highest cumulative grade point averages. They each took a turn at the microphone to reflect on their personal growth, and that of their class, over the course of four years at DSHA. See pages 31-34 to learn more about their DSHA experiences, and for links to their graduation speeches.
CLASS OF 2024 SPIRIT OF THE CLASS
Each year, the senior class nominates their peers and then vote on a classmate to give a Farewell from the Senior Class address at graduation. This year, Nala Johnson, DSHA ’24 , was chosen for best representing the qualities of the class as whole.
DSHA has served its purpose in our lives for the past four years and has provided and equipped us with the tools necessary to navigate the world and start anew. Starting over isn't always easy, but it's purposeful. It's purposeful to close the door and grab a new key to open a new level of opportunities and growth in places that are meant to add value to you, and equip you to be who God has called you to be.”
SENIOR CLASS PRAYER
The graduation ceremony closed with a prayer written by Melanie Sanchez, DSHA ’24 (left) and Stacy Ramirez, DSHA ’24 (right).
Dear Loving Savior…Grant us the wisdom to navigate the paths ahead with courage and integrity. May we always stive to make a positive impact on the world around us, using our talents and abilities for the greater good. Bless our futures with opportunities for growth, love, and fulfillment. Guide us as we embark on new adventures—further education, entering the workforce, and pursuing our passions.”
Scan for excerpts from her Farewell to the Senior Class.
The Qualities
OF A DSHA GRADUATE
The Qualities of a DSHA Graduate are rooted in the mission of DSHA. Over the course of four years, faculty and staff are deliberately and intentionally focused on helping each student grow and develop into an articulate, confident and capable young woman with the following qualities:
Woman of Faith
Self-Advocate
Critical Thinker
Communicator
Leader
DSHA’s Catholic, Salvatorian foundation, college-prep academics, and co-curricular opportunities provide each young woman with a framework for personal excellence based on high standards, tools and choices that empower her to develop the Qualities of a DSHA Graduate.
A QUALITIES HISTORY LESSON
Scan to learn more about the Qualities of a DSHA Graduate from members of the class of 2024.
The original four qualities were established in 2003 by Past President Ellen Bartel , with the fifth quality (self-advocate) added in 2017, just prior to her retirement. Her original hope for the qualities remains as the qualities continue to serve as an “important articulation of what we aim for with each and every young woman who becomes a Dasher,” as Bartel shared of her hope for the qualities upon their establishment.
Today, President Katie Konieczny, DSHA ’92 , maintains the legacy and importance of the five qualities. “They are intrinsic to each young woman’s high school experience. Along with our mission, they serve as a filter through which all educational opportunities occur. Our faculty and staff do such a beautiful job of ensuring that each young woman grows in the these areas that will carry them through the rest of their lives.”
DSHA Class of 2024
100% OF DSHA GRADUATES WILL GO ON TO A FOUR YEAR COLLEGE OR UNIVERSITY.
65 DIFFERENT COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES WILL BE ATTENDED BY 170 GRADUATES.
$26,892,310 IN REPORTED SCHOLARSHIP DOLLARS WERE AWARDED TO THE DSHA CLASS OF 2024 BY ACCEPTED COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES.
28%
COLLEGE MATRICULATION, AWARDS, AND RECOGNITIONS a class by - the - numbers OF THE CLASS OF 2024 WAS ACCEPTED TO A HIGHLY SELECTIVE COLLEGE OR UNIVERSITY (SCHOOLS ACCEPTING 20% OF APPLICANTS OR LESS) AND/OR AN HONORS COLLEGE/PROGRAM.
26% will attend one of the Universities of Wisconsin.
23.5% will attend an out- of- state public college or university
20% will attend a Catholic university in Wisconsin.
13.5% will attend a Catholic school out- of- state.
13.5% will attend a private out- of- state ( non - catholic ) college or university.
2% will attend a private ( non - catholic ) college or university in Wisconsin.
< 1% will attend a United States service Academy.
< 1% will attend a University abroad.
ON WISCONSIN!
33 Dashers will attend UW Madison.
ADDITIONAL SCHOOL INCLUDE:
6 to UW Milwaukee
3 to UW Lacrosse
1 each to: UW Eau Claire, UW Stevens Point, and UW Whitewater
SCHOOLS INCLUDE:
16 to University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
4 to University of Iowa
2 to University of Tennessee
18 additional Dashers will attend different schools across 17 different states.
RING OUT AHOYA!
34 Dashers will attend Marquette University.
SCHOOLS INCLUDE:
5 to University of Notre Dame
4 to Creighton University
4 to Loyola University, Chicago
3 to DePaul University
ADDITIONAL CATHOLIC
SCHOOLS INCLUDE: Benedictine University, Boston College, Fordham University, Saint Louis University, University of Dayton, Villanova University, and Xavier University
23 Dashers will attend 22 different schools across 15 states and Washington, D.C.
2 students will attend Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design
1 student will attend Milwaukee School of Engineering
DSHA CLASS OF 2024 COLLEGE MATRICULATION BY STATE
a closer look
EX SCIENTIA TRIDENS | Megan Finerty received a prestigious appointment to attend the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis. The academy selects only 11% of applicants each year. Finerty will study general science and play rugby for the Midshipmen.
HBCU EXCELLENCE | Two Dashers will continue their education at a school in the group of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Established by the Higher Education Act of 1965, these schools hold the principal mission of the education of African Americans through a recognition of culture and academic excellence, preparing students for leadership after graduation. Nala Johnson will study psychology on a pre-med track at Howard University in Washington, D.C., and Samiyah Heaston will study nursing at Prairie View A&M University in Texas.
PharmD | Christina Monty was admitted to the Early Assurance program at UW-Madison. This highly selective program offers undergraduates a focus on pre-pharmacy coursework and a structured pathway to a reserved spot in the UW-Madison Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) program.
ACROSS THE POND | Maura Lucke will attend St. Andrews University in Scotland and plans to study international relations. More recently popular for being the school where the Prince and Princess of Wales met, St. Andrews was founded in 1413 and is Scotland’s first university, and the third oldest English-speaking university in the world.
MARIAN SCHOLAR PLANS | Mia Ruge, who completed her Marian Scholars Certificate of Completion, will continue her education at Warren County Educational Center in Cincinnati, OH.
Intended Areas of Undergraduate Study + interest
continued pursuit of passion
OF STUDENTS
STUDYING STEM:
STUDENTS STUDENTS STUDENTS 37 32 10 3 STUDENTS STUDENTS
Areas of study include: pre-med, nursing, physical therapy, biomedical sciences, and more.
Areas of study include: political science, communications, fine arts, and more.
Areas of study include: finance, marketing, analytics, and more.
UNDECIDED
Note, students who indicated an intention for more than one area of study are included in multiple sections.
FINE ARTS | The following students intend to pursue a concentrated study in a fine arts discipline; many admitted to their respective schools or programs through an audition or portfolio review process.
Ella Connelly | University of South Carolina, Fashion Merchandising
This prestigious and highly selective scholarship from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation provides a full-ride scholarship for outstanding, minority, high school seniors who have demonstrated an outstanding academic record, exceptional leadership, and exceptional maturity, motivation, and perseverance.
QUESTBRIDGE COLLEGE MATCH
This full-tuition scholarship connects academically outstanding students from diverse backgrounds with opportunities at top colleges, including the QuestBridge path to college, beginning junior year of high school with the college admissions process through alumni support upon college graduation.
academic excellence scholars
Kate Sohn | University of Wisconsin-Madison, Biochemistry + Pre-Med
Hannah Jochman | University of Georgia, Economics & Sports Management
Academic Excellence Scholarships are awarded to Wisconsin high school seniors who have the highest unweighted grade point average among other criteria in each public and private high school throughout the State of Wisconsin.
United States service Academy Appointment
Meghan Finerty | United States Naval Academy, General Science
The Naval Academy offers midshipmen a fully-funded education including tuition, books, room/board, and medical/dental costs. The appointment also includes a monthly stipend to pay for additional expenses.
BLESSED VIRGIN MARY SCHOLARSHIP
Lilly Brandt | Loyola University—Chicago
This half-tuition scholarship is awarded to one faculty-nominated student from each BVM high school in the United States. (Holy Angels Academy was a BVM-sponsored school prior to merging with Divine Savior High School in 1970.)
HPSP VETERANS AFFAIRS SCHOLARSHIP
Julia Mansfield | Marquette University, Nursing
This Health Professional Scholarship Program awards full tuition to deserving students receiving education in a healthcare services discipline, and assists in providing an adequate supply of such personnel for the Department of Veterans Affairs.
This full-tuition scholarship recognizes ten Wisconsin high school seniors who exhibit leadership, have demonstrated exceptional commitment to community, and aspire to pursue a career to benefit the public good.
This full-tuition scholarship recognizes academically promising students from Milwaukee-area high schools. The scholarship is awarded to only five MU students in each incoming freshman class.
ALL - IN MILWAUKEE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM
High potential, diverse Milwaukee recipients receive scholarship aid and advisory support through this program to graduate college, build purposeful careers, and transform the Milwaukee community.
Yazmin Vazquez | University of Wisconsin—Madison, Pre-Business
Lilia
Andrea
Camilla Chaisorn | Marquette University, Nursing
DSHA CLASS OF 2024 COLLEGE MATRICULATION (CONT )
DSHA senior class awards
ACADEMIC,
LEADERSHIP, AND SPIRIT EXCELLENCE
Kate Krueger | Valedictorian | University of Notre Dame, Finance
Abigail Quesnell | Valedictorian | University of Wisconsin—Madison, Electrical Engineering
Kate Sohn | Salutatorian | University of Wisconsin—Madison, Biochemistry + Pre-Med
Nala Johnson | DSHA Spirit of the Class* | Howard University, Psychology + Pre-Med
Evelyn Coffou | Dasher Leadership Award | University of Minnesota—Twin Cities, Business
Molly Jex | Mardi Gladson Award* | University of Dubuque, Sports Marketing & Management
*Peer-determined award.
SALVATORIAN SERVICE AWARD
SPONSORED BY THE SISTERS OF THE DIVINE SAVIOR
This award affirms graduating seniors who have consistently shared their time and talents through compassionate and caring service with others during their four years at DSHA, completing 140+ service hours through first semester of their senior year.
Avery Basile | University of Iowa, Biomedical Science + Pre-PA
Lauren Correa | Outstanding Senior Spanish IV University of Richmond, Pre-Health
DASHER ATHLETICS
Charlotte Fetherston | Sportswoman of the Year Williams College, Chemistry
Eleanor Langenfeld | Coaches Award University of Notre Dame, Finance
Scan for a full list of senior awards, including Fine Arts, STEM Scholars, and Salvatorian Global Scholars.
CONGRATULATIONS, 2024
Medalists
and Families
The DSHA Medalist tradition dates back to 1921 when the first daughter of an alumna enrolled at Holy Angels Academy. Medalist graduates are members of a family that has had multiple generations of women graduate from Holy Angels Academy, Divine Savior High School, and/or Divine Savior Holy Angels High School.
COMMEMORATION OF GENERATIONS
Medalist Luncheon | Each fall, medalist families are invited to a special event where this DSHA family tradition is honored. At the luncheon, each student medalist receives a necklace and commemorative charms to celebrate the generations of DS, HA, and/or DSHA graduates in her family as follows:
Fall of Freshman Year
Each medalist receives a necklace chain and a DSHA seal charm.
Fall of Sophomore, Junior, and Senior Years
Each medalist receives one charm, starting with the charm that depicts the school of her closest relative: either DS, HA, or DSHA. Once all schools are represented, medalists receive a cross or a penguin charm as a filler.
Baccalaureate Mass and Graduation medalists are honored during Baccalaureate Mass as each medalist and her alumna mother, grandmother(s), and/or great-grandmother(s) are called to the front where the graduate will receive her final commemorative medal—one side depicts the DSHA seal while the other side lists the school and graduation years of herself, along with her alumna/e family members. Each gradu ating medalist receives a rose charm for her necklace. Additionally, each alumna of HA receives a lavender rose with a yellow ribbon; each alumna of DS receives a red rose with a white ribbon; and each alumna of DSHA receives a yellow rose with a red ribbon.
Lola Sgrignuoli, DSHA ’24
Mother: Julie Horter Sgrignuoli, DSHA ’86
Grandmother: Patricia Graf Horter, HA ’56
Great-Grandmother: Mary Ellen Forrestal Horter†, HA ’30
Charlotte Fetherston, DSHA ’24
Mother: Meghan Phelan Fetherston, DSHA ’95
Grandmother: Jean Voss Phelan, HA ’63
Mary Foy, DSHA ’24
Grandmother: Brigid Duffy Foy†, HA ’63
Great-Grandmother: Rosemary Schwinn Foy, HA ’41
Jocelyn Frain, DSHA ’24
Stepmother: Annemarie Weiss, DSHA ’03
Step-Grandmother: Christine Kirsch Weiss, DS ’70
Kathryn Hyde, DSHA ’24
Mother: Sarah Lehmkuhl Hyde, DSHA ’89
Grandmother: Kristin Rasmussen Luhmkuhl, DS ’62
Adeline Lancaster, DSHA ’24
Mother: Jennifer Kobach Lancaster, DSHA ’89
Grandmother: Gail Hanlon Kobach, DS ’64
Lucy Markes, DSHA ’24
Mother: Heidi Krahn Bielefeld, DSHA ’93
Grandmother: Mary Emigh Krahn, DS ’64
Samantha Merrick, DSHA ’24
Mother: Amelia Burbach Merrick, DSHA ’88
Grandmother: Catherine Schmidt Burbach, HA ’57
Rhiannon Murray, DSHA ’24
Grandmother: Haroldean Tegge
Wolter†, HA ’43
Great-grandmother: Florence Dunn
Murray†, HA ’29
Jordan Murray, DSHA ’24
Grandmother: Mary Ann Hanley Laughlin†, HA ’51
Great-grandmother: Grace Schaeffler Murray†, HA ’42
Flannery O’Keef, DSHA ’24
Mother: Jennifer Kreitzer O’Keef, DSHA ’89
DSHA WORD MAGAZINE
Grandmother: Nan Heidenreich Kreitzer†, DS ’62
Madeline Baltz, DSHA ’24
Mother: Amanda Spaulding Baltz,
Great-Grandmother:
Grandmother:
DSHA ’99
Nora Carrig, DSHA ’24
Cecilia Calhoun Brennan†, HA ’27
Gillan Cichy, DSHA ’24 Mother: Dana Trampe Cichy, DSHA ’91
(Pictured with great aunt Kathleen Driscoll Wiedenhoeft, HA ’65.)
Margaret Johnson, DSHA ’24
Mother: Bridget Hegarty Johnson, DSHA ’95
Eleanora Markwald, DSHA ’24
Mother: Sarah Lindemann Markwald, DSHA ’91
Sophia Wendlick, DSHA ’24
Grandmother: Jane Rademacher
DS ’64
Lily Goller, DSHA ’24
Step-Grandmother: Caroline Garlock Kucharski†, HA ’52
Caroline Harris, DSHA ’24
Great-Grandmother: Mary Healy Connelly†, HA ’38
Meredith Kastenholz, DSHA ’24
Grandmother: Kathleen Burbach Kastenholz†, HA ’60
Elizabeth Novotny, DSHA ’24
Grandmother: Julianne Soener Novotny†, DS ’62
Savanna Wertz, DSHA ’24
Grandmother: Lucy Marchese, HA ’61
Tennessen Laforest, DSHA ’24
Mother: Ingrid Tennessen Laforest, DSHA ’98
Isabella O’Brien, DSHA ’24
Grandmother: Barbara Mazza McDonald, DS ’66
Arielle Weston, DSHA ’24
Great-Grandmother: Lorraine Cerletty
Kerwin†,
Schmit†, HA ’39
WITH
Pursuing Social Justice through Global Health
BY MOLLY SHEA
Since graduating from the University of Wisconsin–Madison in 2022 with a B.S. in Global Health, Margot Dunn, DSHA ’18, has chosen an alternate path to most—full-time volunteer work. Her work and goal has been to better understand and serve communities, and to meet basic human needs in the overarching field of global health.
When asked, “Why have you chosen to spend your first two years out of college working for free?” Dunn quickly diverts the question away from herself and toward a pursuit of social justice.
“From my studies at DSHA and Madison, I’ve learned so much about what is helpful and what is not in regard to service,” she shares. “It is important to understand that volunteering can sometimes do more harm than good.” Dunn has been careful to pursue opportunities where her work is directed and overseen “by the people and for the people” in the community in which she serves. “They have the answers, and we might have the resources to support their solutions.”
growth Behind-the-Scenes
Dunn made the choice during college to do a year of volunteer work after graduating—an opportunity she recognizes as a privilege. Following the path of her sister, Ellie Dunn, DSHA ’16, she pursued a placement in the Jesuit Volunteer Corps (JVC) whose mission “through solidarity and service with local communities, fosters the formation of young people dedicated to a faith that promotes justice,” aligned with her own. She landed at the Native American Health Center in the Mission District of San Francisco working as a clinical care assistant. She calls her face-to-face interaction with patients a “beautiful experience,” enriched by the learnings from her role behind-the-scenes with patient case management.
“I didn't anticipate how difficult it is to navigate our healthcare system. Insurance and immigration status, language barriers, unstable housing, and transportation all profoundly impact health and healthcare accessibility,” Dunn shares. Daily, she saw that basic needs must be met to promote health and wellness—that social support, nutrition, and stability are fundamental to health. As she wrapped up her JVC placement, her goal became to build a skillset that could help meet these basic human needs. She decided improving her Spanish would be a part of this skillset, and knew Ecuador was the place to do so.
Margot Dunn, DSHA ’18
respect, faith, and solidarity
Dunn first experienced the country of Ecuador during a month-long internship with the Ceiba Foundation between graduating college and working with JVC. She supported work focused on the intersection of water quality and human health. “I knew Ecuador was a beautiful place with beautiful people and rich in culture.”
For the past year, Dunn has been working as a volunteer at the Center for Working Families in Quito, living on the campus in community with other volunteers. Through comprehensive and integrated family programming, the center’s mission is to promote the empowerment of vulnerable families in the community by developing life plans, skills, and abilities. Offerings include education, healthcare, food security, economic opportunities, psychology, and more. Dunn’s aunt (Mary Garcia-Velez, DSHA ’85) and uncle volunteered with the center over 30 years ago, so
Margot Dunn, DSHA ’18, at the Center for Working Families in Quito, Ecuador, with her kindergarten students Johandry. Photo by Natalie Sanchez, DSHA ’18.
the mission was familiar. Additionally, the center was the long-time location of the DSHA Spanish immersion/service trip led by retired World Languages Faculty Martha Parks, so Dunn had friends from high school who were connected to the center as well.
“I knew I wanted to serve an organization with a sustainable mission driven by social justice,” she shares. “I learned right away the projects originated and were directed by the Ecuadorian community, and that was very important to me. The center meets needs through accompaniment manifested in respect, faith, and solidarity. It is a place that shows dignity to those in vulnerable situations.”
Dignity for All
The center helps over 200 local families navigate challenges such as food insecurity, domestic violence, and immigration. For the past year, on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings, Dunn has worked in the center’s healthcare clinic alongside a doctor and nurse. Tuesdays and Thursdays were spent in a classroom with kindergartners. Afternoons were spent with older students through programs and clubs. This included the opportunity to create and lead a soccer club called Fútbol Feminino (a passion of Dunn’s as a former DSHA Varsity Soccer player) because many girls in Quito do not have the opportunity to play many organized sports.
Additionally, Dunn has spent many of her evenings accompanying a Family Promoter and Social Worker from the center on family visit wellness checks. “The intensity of poverty is tough to see. Our job is to listen, meet families where they are at, and recognize that though they have lived through some atrocities, hope and support remain. Circumstances should not define you—everyone has dignity.”
Hope in Challenge
Dunn has loved her time in Ecuador. And it has also come with challenges, particularly experiencing the circumstantial reality for many of the families she has grown to know and love—things she describes as “previously unfathomable” to her time at the center. “I will spend the rest of my life drawing on what I learned,” she shares.
Being away from her family and missing milestones while she has been away has also been a challenge, though she has drawn strength from her friends and family at home. Both of her parents are physicians in Milwaukee and fluent in Spanish; her mom serves at a free clinic, and her dad is a pediatrician at Sixteenth Street clinic. “I draw from what my parents have been doing my entire life,” she shares, adding that service has been a priority for the Dunns since she can remember. “It can get really overwhelming at times and you can’t believe certain situations exist in the world and in our neighborhoods, Milwaukee, and abroad. And yet I know there are people (like my family and friends) working hard to create a kinder world. I lean on that hope a lot.”
When asked if the sacrifice of time with loved ones, creature comforts, and a paycheck have been worth it, Dunn is quick to point to the priceless connections created within this
community. “I’m working in a classroom of the next generation, and when they are my age, I'm hopeful that opportunities like soccer will not be based on gender, but ability and love for the sport. To prepare children for a higher education which was inaccessible in generations past, makes it worth everything,” Dunn shares. “My hope comes from these remarkable students who have shown me love, and their parents who work hard to secure a better future for their children. I want them to find their passion and run with it.”
When speaking with Dunn for this story, she was preparing for her kindergartners to graduate the next day, and for her return to the U.S. in July. “I am so proud of them,” she reflects. “I’ve watched them learn their numbers and letters as kids should, and then I’ve watched them go through really hard things together and learn from their friendships. Most of these kids are immigrants from Venezuela or Colombia—Ecuador has been their stopping point on the way to the U.S. or elsewhere. As I return with ease to my family in Milwaukee, I pray all migrants find mercy and welcome as they journey.”
work to be done
Dunn is ready to return to Milwaukee. She comes home with significantly improved Spanish and friendships to cherish, and many lessons learned, some unexpected. She credits her time in Ecuador for expanding her scope of what care for others can look like, and the variety of ways to show up for people. Ironically, her lack of Spanish skills helped her, at times, connect deeply with others. “Struggling with the language had a silver lining,” she shares. “There were times my Spanish was not at the level I needed, but learning to be patient and give space to someone who is struggling is okay. In hindsight, I felt unhelpful in those moments, but just sitting with someone in need, and being present even without a solution, holds so much power.”
While all of her volunteer roles, whether in the classroom or clinic were life changing, her work with patients has reinforced her dedication to global health and health equity. “During my work alongside medical professionals, social workers, teachers, psychologists, and therapists, I’ve learned that integration and collaboration among departments are the best ways to help identify the cause of problems and implement practical solutions.”
She plans to pursue a career in the medical field working with underserved communities. Though unsure of where her career will take her, she would not discount returning to a place she has served—Milwaukee, San Francisco, and Quito are all places she has grown to love. “I live in gratitude for my experiences and will honor those who exemplified the importance of hope, faith, courage, and connection in my future life and work.”
ALUMNAE NEWS
1 | Kathryn Muench Fisher, DSHA ’11 , a certification specialist for A.O. Smith’s North American Water Treatment, received the Water Quality Association Next Gen Award for her commitment to the betterment of the water treatment industry. Fisher is responsible for all certification and regulatory requirements of A.O. Smith’s products.
2 | Rowely, an online marketplace to buy and sell preowned wedding essentials, was founded by Sarah Brennan, DSHA ’10 . The company goal is to make the wedding shopping experience more affordable, sustainable, and positive for future brides. The site features gently worn gowns, engagement party dresses, accessories, bridal jewelry, and more. Learn more at shoprowely.com
3 | Kiley Robbins, DSHA ’20 , won her first Big Ten individual title for the University of Wisconsin in the 60m with a time of 7.22 sec, the third fastest time in Big Ten history. She also set the a UW record in the 100m with a time of 11.13. Robbins recently competed in the Olympic Trials this June in the 100m.
4 | Margaret Donley Webb, DSHA ’91 , published a book, A Hero’s Journey in Parenting—Parenting the Child You Didn’t Expect While You Were Expecting. The book features tools, questions, and strategies she has learned as a teacher and through her own life experiences parenting her 20-year-old autistic son. She is the lead parent coach for Tilt Parenting’s Differently Wired Club and offers 1:1 coaching practice for couples and parents.
5 | Jadin O’Brien, DSHA ’20 , secured her second consecutive NCAA Indoor Pentathlon Championship on March 8 for the University of Notre Dame. O’Brien recently competed in the Olympic Trials this June in the heptathlon.
6 | Florist Vicki Zunker Kunz, DSHA ’83 , was featured in the Milwaukee Art Museum’s annual Art in Bloom exhibit. From April 18-21, florists created a unique arrangement in response to a museum artwork of their selection. Kunz was paired with a sculpture piece by Alexander Calder.
7 | Paula Lovo, DSHA ’17 , is a Milwaukee-based multidisciplinary artist. She focuses on creating accessible art and music spaces by helping lead low-cost, all-ages, multilingual film programming to engage through the arts. In January, she was featured as an artist-in-residence at Gallery Night MKE.
8 | Mia Hartounian, DSHA ’22 , first auditioned for American Idol at age 16. She was told she was “not ready” and was sent home. Hartounian used the rejection as motivation to better her craft. She learned piano, wrote her own songs, and attended Belmont University as a music business and marketing major. In 2024, Hartounian went back to American Idol, and earned a golden ticket to Hollywood. While there she was offered a digital marketing internship with Sony.
9 | Ann Bonness Angel, DS ’70 , wrote an essay entitled “Lenard D. Moore on the Music of Poetry,” for Moore’s upcoming book Conversations with Lenard D. Moore. (Moore is the first African American President to the American Haiku Society and Honorary Curator of the American Haiku Archives.) Angel will instruct a workshop for The Writing Barn in Austin this fall, and teaches advanced creative writing at Mount Mary University.
10 | Dana Harkness Minning, DSHA ’05 , serves on the Board of Directors with Prevent Blindness Wisconsin. The NPO strives for Wisconsin residents to have healthy vision at every stage of life. Prevent Blindness has worked to educate Dashers since 2022 on different eye diseases while training them to vision screen kindergarten and pre-school children.
11 | For Milo, an NPO founded by Sarah Oliveri Kunkel, DSHA ’09 , and her husband Kevin, focuses on raising awareness and support for families affected by congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). They lost their son, Milo, at 18 days old. They started For Milo and committed themselves to raising awareness about CDH, infant loss, and supporting families by creating open dialogues and connection. Learn more at donate4mbk.com
12 | Pictured left to right, Cari Brennan, DSHA ’14 (Assistant Service Project Manager at JM Brennan, Inc.); Maria Valentyn, DSHA ’12 (VP of Entertainment for the Beloit Sky Carps); and Yamilett Lopez, DSHA ’13 (Associate Attorney at Godfrey & Kahn, S.C), each visited DSHA’s Character Driven Leadership class this spring. Each alumna discussed her educational and career journey, leadership skills for success, and offered career guidance and advice.
Dr. Suzanne M. Swiderski, DSHA ‘83 , recently retired from her position as an Associate Professor in the Department of Literatures and Languages at the University of Wisconsin-Parkside. After 35 years in higher education, Swiderski has begun working as a researcher in the field of artificial intelligence, and trains larger language models.
WHO HAVE RECENTLY PASSED:
Alumnae
GRADUATES FROM THE 1930 s
Mary Elioplos Hodel, HA ’36
May 9, 2024
Olive Wright Pruski, HA ’38
June 12, 2023
GRADUATES FROM THE 1940 s
Doris Hanagan Reisel, HA ’41
January 1, 2024
Rosemary Metz Selep, HA ’46
May 7, 2024
Patricia Murphy Healy Andera, HA ’47
September 11, 2023
Barbara Bondar Albert, HA ’47
February 19, 2024
Mary Ann Czerwicznik Kintop, HA ’48
January 3, 2024
Angela Conarchy Hunter, HA ’48
January 31, 2024
Joan Berghammer Grieb, HA ’48
February 25, 2024
Kathleen Forrestal, HA ’48
March 24, 2024
GRADUATES FROM THE 1950 s
Joann Jakopac Glawe, DS ’54
March 8, 2023
Geraldine Smith Helmers, HA ’54
May 11, 2023
Joan Gundrum Gallmann, DS ’54
January 5, 2024
Caroline Emmer Marszalkowski, DS ’54
March 26, 2024
Arlene Burg Schramm, HA ’56
March 7, 2024
Sheila Laney Collopy, DS ’58
January 13, 2024
Sheila Burke Vollman, HA ’58
February 17, 2024
Margaret Kreuser Rasch, DS ’58
April 17, 2024
Carol Lovas Germano, HA ’59
January 6, 2024
GRADUATES FROM THE 1960 s
Jean Schraufnagel Alexander, DS ’61
April 15, 2024
Joan Schaffer Pope, HA ’62
March 25, 2024
Patricia Young Wisialowski, HA ’64
May 17, 2024
Mary Nill Heerey, HA ’65
March 16, 2024
Judith Posnanski Bickel, DS ’66
February 7, 2024
GRADUATES FROM THE 1970 s
Rosemary Hacker Maclnnes, DSHA ’72
April 1, 2024
Christine Tagliavia Cianciolo, DSHA ’73
January 12, 2024
Barbara Arnold Zablocki, DSHA ’77
April 25, 2024
GRADUATE FROM THE 1980 s
Mary Kluth, DSHA ’89
March 2, 2024
GRADUATE FROM THE 1990 s
Sarah Sterzinger Finley, DSHA ’95
May 19, 2024
GRADUATE FROM THE 2000 s
Andrea Heiderer Sherman, DSHA ’01
March 16, 2024
ETERNAL REST GRANT UNTO THEM, O LORD, AND LET PERPETUAL LIGHT SHINE UPON THEM. MAY THEIR SOULS, AND THE SOULS OF ALL THE FAITHFUL DEPARTED, THROUGH THE MERCY OF GOD, REST IN PEACE.
Alumnae
OCTOBER 4 - 6
CELEBRATING JUBILARIAN ALUMNAE AND CLASSES ENDING IN 4 s AND 9 s !
Dashers, Dashers what’s your number? 4 s AND 9 s — IT’S YOUR YEAR!
HAPPY HOUR AT ZISTERS IN ELM GROVE
Friday, October 4
Join us for complementary cocktails and heavy hors d'oeuvres hosted by DSHA.
MILESTONE CLASS REUNIONS
Saturday, October 5
Individual class reunion parties will be planned by class representatives at various locations of choice around Milwaukee.
ALUMNAE MASS AND SERVICE PROJECT
Sunday, October 6
Following Mass, join us to make PB+J sandwiches for a local food pantry.
40 th ANNUAL JUBILEE BRUNCH
Following Alumnae Weekend Mass, all alumnae from the HA, DS, and DSHA classes of 1974 and earlier are invited to Jubilee Brunch. The class of 1974 will be honored and welcomed into the Jubilarian community. Attendees will hear from President Katie Brown Konieczny, DSHA ’92 , and the Jubilarian of the Year.
Alumnae Weekend Events Calendar
THURSDAY 10.3
Alumnae of The Year Student Assembly
FRIDAY 10.4
Athletic Hall of Fame Induction
Happy Hour for Classes Ending in 4s & 9s
SATURDAY 10.5
Class Reunions for 4s & 9s
SUNDAY 10.6
Mass*
Service Opportunity*
Jubilee Brunch
*All alumnae and families welcome!
All reunion year and Jubilarian alumnae will receive a formal invitation via email.
If you are interested in helping coordinate communications for your class, please contact Alumnae Director Danielle Jerominski Rabe, DSHA ’08 , at RabeD@dsha.info or 414.616.2808
Visit dsha.info/alumnaeweekend2024 to learn more!
S PONSORED BY THE S ISTERS OF THE D IVINE S AVIOR
SPONSORED BY THE SIS TERS OF THE DIVINE SAVIOR
4257 Nor th 100th Street | Milwau ke e, WI 53222
4257 Nor th 100th Street | Milwau ke e, WI 53222
A ll Girls Makes All the Difference | dsha.info
A ll Girls Mak es All the Diff erence | dsha.info
Non Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Permit 2221 Milwaukee, WI
Science Department Chair & Faculty Stacey Strandberg | EXCELLENCE IN SCIENCE TEACHING
Strandberg was recognized by the Wisconsin Society of Science Teachers for her outstanding contributions to the improvement of science education in Wisconsin with the Excellence in Science Teaching Award.
Marian Scholars Faculty Gretchen Creten
Caraher, DSHA ’93 | HERB KOHL EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION TEACHER
Caraher was selected by a statewide committee composed of civic leaders and representatives of education-related associations and program co-sponsors. Caraher is the recipient of a grant for her skill as a leader and agent for positive change, and her superior ability to inspire a love of learning.
Athletic Director Peggy Seegers-Braun,
CMMA | NATIONAL PRIVATE HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETIC ADMINISTRATOR OF THE YEAR
The Leadership Playbook honors Seegers-Braun with this award of distinction that recognizes leaders who strive to develop other leaders, make people and situations better, and provide positive examples for those they influence.
