Homecoming 2012 Phase II Celebrations
Sailor Summers Seniors Share their Summer Journeys
Birthday Reflections Alumna Centenarian:
'32
Louise Kricker Dodd
Athletic Hall of Fame Class of 2012 Inductions
Globetrotting Alumnae Alumnae Report on Recent Travel Adventures
Mount de Sales Academy
From the Principal
Board of Trustees
Dear Friends of Mount de Sales Academy,
Executive Committee Nora Coakley Reiter, CPA '70 P'08 President
Shortly after receiving the assignment as principal of Mount de Sales Academy, I made my first trip to Baltimore to begin the transitioning process with Sr. Anne Catherine. Early in the visit, we took a tour of the building which began in the basement and ended in the cupola on a sunny, breezy July day. Quite a view!
Sister Mary Thomas Huffman, O.P. Principal Joseph Geier P'08 '12 Vice President Mary Jo Warthen P'87 Secretary Christopher Giermek P'14 Treasurer General Board Carol N. Abromaitis, Ph.D. Richard Arnold P'11 Chris Brown, J.D. P’04 '08 Monsignor Carl F. Cummings Keith Dalton P'10 Ronald C. Diegelman P'00 Frank H. Falter, Jr. P'84 '86 GP'15 Barry Fitzpatrick Elizabeth Gibbons Jennings '80 P’12 Brian MacLean P’14 Sharon McCormack, M.D. '77 Reverend Michael J.P. Roach John L. Voigt, Jr. P'03 Alumnae Association Board Position Available President Kay McElgunn Everett '85 P'13 Vice President Jeanne Schaible Langeluttig '84 Treasurer Position Available Secretary Comments, contributions or corrections? Please contact: Karen von Lange P'09 '16 Director of Communications Mount de Sales Academy 700 Academy Road Catonsville, Maryland 21228 e: kvonlange@mountdesales.org p: 410.744.8498 ext. 140
That view became even more stunning as I realized that the cupola is located directly over the school chapel three floors below. Many ships must have used the light in the cupola as a guide to safely navigate the harbor, as the sisters prayed directly below that light for the needs of the world from which the ship had come. This is a great symbol for our work here at Mount de Sales. Many alumnae have lived, laughed, learned, and grown within these walls. They took the lessons of leadership gained here on this mount out to bring impact to the world. The history of Mount de Sales carries stories of alumnae such as Mary Lucille Kinlein ’39, a forerunner in the field of nurse practitioners. Her emphasis on caring for the whole person is a view that was surely nurtured within her faith experience at Mount de Sales Academy. This legacy of leadership lives on. In this issue of View from the Cupola we highlight several alumnae, teachers, and students actively engaged in leading others to great things. Even as I write this, our upperclassmen are running a leadership day for area eighth graders, sharing their gifts and passion to teach these young women how to bring good to others. On the night before leaving Mount de Sales on that first visit in July, I was in the chapel in our beautiful new convent at the base of the campus. As I went to leave and turn out the lights, I looked out of the large circular window and saw the cupola of the school, from a different perspective. There at the base of the hill, I stood momentarily between our small chapel, the cupola, and the large school chapel realizing that the light of that cupola is now anchored in two chapels, that of the school and of the convent. Anchored in Christ’s presence and our prayer in both chapels, our mission here at Mount de Sales Academy is still to guide ‘sailors’ who will travel the world, bringing a legacy of leadership anchored in faith wherever they go. God bless,
Since 2004
Sister Mary Thomas, O.P., Principal freestyle designs print and interactive publication specialist
Volume 29 Issue 1: 2 From the Principal 3 Summer Highlights 4 On Campus 10 Alumnae News
Summer Highlights
Sailor Summer Adventures Marina Congedo '13 Physics Summer Girls Ever wanted to play with liquid nitrogen? Or learn about Einstein's theory of relativity? Or calculate the speed of rotation of the sun? Well over the summer I did all that and more. From July 30 through August 10, I attended the outreach program for juniors and seniors in high school at the University of Maryland, College Park called Physics Summer Girls. I was accepted to this program, which was completely free to all the participants, with 20 other girls from Maryland, Virginia, Washington DC, and even from as far away as Missouri and Michigan. During the two weeks, we learned all about the world of physics. We covered topics such as relativity, light and optics, circuits, waves, quantum mechanics, particles, and atomic physics. Every day was full of experiments, projects, tours, and guest speakers. We worked in UMD's physics labs, toured the state-of-the-art graduate facilities, learned about hot topics in the physics world, and heard guest speakers who specialized in everything from dark matter to biophysics to particles (such as the Higgs-Bosun Particle, a very new discovery). The two weeks were incredible; I learned so much and had fun the entire time.
Emily Nava '13 Study Abroad: Madrid, Spain This past summer I studied abroad in Madrid, Spain. I have always loved Spanish because I grew up with relatives who spoke it as their first language. My uncle grew up in Madrid, and my aunt and cousins speak Spanish at home. My uncle’s sister runs a foreign language school and exchange program that I have heard wonderful things about. So, after my junior year of Spanish with Mrs. Salazar, I felt prepared to travel to Spain to study. For two weeks I attended the Tandem Madrid International Language School in Madrid and Barcelona. At Tandem, my classes ran each day from 9 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. There were two other girls in my classes, one from China and the other from India. Because of our different backgrounds, Spanish was our only common language. My first class of the day focused on immersion into the Spanish culture. We learned about the customs and daily life of Madrid. Their culture is very different from what I am used to in America. Dinner was usually served around 10:00 p.m., after which people went out for the evening. This made waking up for classes rather difficult!
Anastasia Countiss '13 Girls State & Girls Nation This summer I participated in the programs Girls State and Girls Nation. Both are sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary. We learned each level of government in stages starting with city government where I ran and was elected to be Mayor of Charm City. I was able to improve my public speaking skills with the numerous speeches I gave, honed my debate skills, and made more friends in the process than I could ever have imagined. When it was our time to learn about state government, we participated in mock senate and house sessions where we debated real bills presented in Annapolis. We listened to guest speakers such as the national president of the American Legion Auxiliary, National commander of the American Legion, lawyers, professional lobbyists, and inspirational speakers including a Holocaust survivor. During our trip to Capitol Hill we were given the opportunity to explore the Library of Congress, watch from the gallery both House and Senate Sessions, and meet with our states’ senators. We visited wounded veterans and toured the monuments.
My second class of the day was similar to what we are taught here at Mount de Sales. Mostly, we studied Spanish grammar. The major difference between the classes there and at MDSA is that everything there was in Spanish; very few people understood me if I spoke English.
The pinnacle of my week was the chance to meet the President of the United States of America. Regardless of one’s political opinion, every single participant valued the opportunity to share a handshake with the leader of the free world and take a tour of the White House.
Overall, I felt my Spanish skills increase, and I can’t wait to return to Spain. Because of this trip, I plan to major in Spanish in college and spend a semester studying abroad.
Girls State and Girls Nation changed my life by the extraordinary opportunities I was given in only two weeks of my summer. I explored my true interests and made lifelong friends.
3
On Campus
Homecoming & Phase II Celebrations Homecoming in our 160th year was an even more special occasion with the new artificial turf field as the focal point of many of the events. The soccer team had their first Homecoming game that was truly at home and Mr. Bill Held, former lacrosse and basketball coach, was honored for his contributions to Mount de Sales Academy! Visit our Facebook page to check out the Homecoming album!
The annual Homecoming activities have become a tradition. This year, there were so many exciting activities that it became a true two-day event. The varsity soccer team literally kickedoff Homecoming on Friday, October 5 with their first Homecoming game on the Mount de Sales Academy campus. This was possible for the first time because the artificial turf field was designed as a regulation soccer field in addition to serving as the competitive
home field for field hockey, lacrosse and softball. That evening, many students celebrated Homecoming with the annual dance hosted by the Alumnae Association. The event is a memorymaking evening for the students and their guests and the biggest fundraiser of the year for the Alumnae Association, which will fund two Mount de Sales Academy scholarships this year. After a night of dancing and fun for the students, hundreds gathered on
Left: Sister Philip Joseph, O.P. helps to honor Mr. Bill Held at the 2012 Homecoming Ceremony. Above: The Varsity Soccer team members appreciate their new uniforms, thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor. Below: Varsity Field Hockey members line up before their first Homecoming game on the new field!
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On Campus campus on Saturday for the day-long Homecoming activities that included volleyball and field hockey games as well as delicious food and fun family activities. A highlight of the day was recognizing Mr. Bill Held for his many contributions to Mount de Sales Academy. Mr. Held is well-known and respected for his decades of coaching at Mount de Sales Academy. He assembled the first lacrosse team in 1978. A few years later, with his personal resources, he provided for and oversaw the construction of the original field. That field, was the foundation on which the new artificial turf field was built. A large crowd filled with Mr. Held’s past players, coaches, including Mr. Warren Gemmill and Mr. Mike Tirocchi, alumnae, students, and current and past parents gathered to honor Mr. Held for his contributions and dedication to Mount de Sales Academy’s Athletic Program. Former MDSA lacrosse and basketball player and member of the Hall of Fame, Jackie Seboda Pfeiler ’86,
Mount de Sales Academy First Varsity Goals on the NEW FIELD!
Varsity Soccer:
Varsity Field Hockey:
Jackie Clauser '14
Leah DiGiandomenico '14
“I got the ball from Katie Young and beat two defenders. At that moment, I realized it was just me and the goalie and I knew I could beat her. I just took a shot and it went over her head. I was worried it would go over the goal but as soon as it started coming down I knew it was a goal. I was so happy. Coach Dubs later congratulated me for making the first varsity goal at home.”
“Scoring the first goal is something I’ll always remember and be proud of. We started the second half down by two with a score of 0-2 and I set my mind to bringing us back and scoring. I dribbled the ball from the 50, came into circle, and shot on goal. I got the chills from accomplishing what I set out to do. Then, I realized it was the first field hockey goal on the new field. Awesome!”
gave a moving introduction of Mr. Held before he was presented with a wooden lacrosse stick signed by former players and coaches. Additionally, he will be recognized with a seat naming.
Capital Campaign. There is still more that needs to be done before the final whistle blows for Phase II and we are able to move forward on Phase III, the Performing Arts Building.
The current progress of Mount de Sales Academy, most notably the projects of the Anchored in Excellence Charting our Future Capital Campaign for Mount de Sales Academy, is possible because of the unsung heroes past and present. We are proud to have reached the $1 million milestone in our $1.6 million Phase II
Please help bring home the win for our students by making a gift to Phase II. You can make a gift by visiting our website at www.mountdesales.org, or donate by contacting Sister Philip Joseph, O.P. at 443.636.2060.
Go Sailors!
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On Campus As we begin our 161st year, Mount de Sales Academy is extremely proud to
welcome the Class of 2016! Class of 2016
FAST FACTS:
Residents of zip codes
46
graduates of
29
Parishioners of
Feeder schools
34 churches
Class of 2016 Scholarship Recipients
In addition to Welcoming our new Principal, Sister Mary Thomas, O.P., we are also excited to add these new members to our Faculty and Staff!
Knott Scholars Elizabeth Kolb, St. Louis School Veronica Balick, Homeschool Katherine Sniezek, St. Louis School
Father Duerr Caroline Arnold, Sacred Heart School Megan Gower, Sacred Heart School Rachel Teti, St. Jerome Academy Katie Pope, St. Louis School
Mrs. Kim Dalton P’10
Ms. Jessica Oros ‘08
Sailor Shop
Art
Mr. Peter Dubyoski P’12 ’14
Mr. Jose Perez P’98 ’02
Facilities
Facilities
Mrs. Elizabeth Ko Elfrey '05
Ms. Daniela Petchik ‘03
Admissions
Development
Mrs. Lucia Fraser P’14 ’16
Mrs. Mary Jo Puglisi
Reception
Sacred Heart Program
Ms. Allison George ‘06
Sister Elizabeth Marie
Religion
Religion
mrs. Denise Georgieff P’14
Sister Janet Mary
School Office
Religion and Math
Ms. Catherine Gill
Sister Nicholas Marie
Foreign Language
Math
Ms. Renee Miller
MRs. Claire Verch
Reception
Social Sciences
ST. Thomas Aquinas Clara Schall, Visitation Academy Stephanie Larsen, St. John School Bridget Bodley, St. Mark School
St. Cecilia Veronica Balick, Homeschool Marly Niesz, School of the Incarnation
St. martin de Porres Rebecca MacDonald, Trinity School Lauren Linsao, St. Paul Lutheran School
Fra angelico art scholarship Samantha Lerch, St. Mark School Lauren Sliker, Our Lady of Perpetual Help School
Guardians of life scholarship Hannah Megan, Severna Park Middle School
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On Campus
Where has the
accent gone?
Since 1985, the Dominican Sisters of St. Cecilia Congregation of Nashville, Tennessee have administered Mount de Sales Academy. What is their most recognizable feature? Most alumnae would agree it's the traditional habit worn daily by our Sisters. Second is the Sisters' sweet southern drawl and fondness for saying, "ya'll." However, the order, blessed with tremendous growth, often now sends Sisters from across the globe to serve at our school. Check out the hometowns of this year's MDSA Sisters!
Leaders
for the
Future Workshop
On October 12, Mount de Sales Academy hosted the Leaders for the Future Workshop with over 60 area eighth graders in attendance. For 20 years, the annual leadership day has been a tradition at MDSA. The student council members helped to make the eighth grade leadership day successful as they presented workshops on time management, effective leadership and communication skills. Mrs. Judi Lanciotti, Vice Principal of Student Affairs, noted, “The eighth grade leadership program allows our student leaders the opportunity to plan and lead a workshop on leadership skills. While the actual workshop is a great experience for the eighth graders who attend, it is more importantly a positive learning and leadership experience for the MDSA students who organize, plan, and host the day’s workshops. It is a day when our MDSA student leaders shine! We are very blessed that we have so many student leaders who generously give their time and talent to our programs.” “The opportunity to help young girls learn what it takes to become a successful leader is amazing. Each one of them is so full of potential and you never know who they will become someday,” added Megan McDermott ’15.
Sisters visiting the Cupola, pictured from left:
Sister Amelia, O.P. Hometown: Stillwater, Minnesota Religion & Foreign Language Departments
Sister Elizabeth Marie, O.P. Hometown: Beaver Dam, Wisconsin Religion Department
For senior Casey Ross, the leadership workshop made an impression in her life, not only as a leader, but also as an attendee. “When I was in eighth grade and attended the MDSA leadership program, I was influenced by the lessons presented by the high school girls. It has impacted me throughout my years in high school and I know these lessons will carry with me through my adult years.”
Sister Mary Thomas, O.P. Hometown: Elizabethtown, Kentucky Principal
Sister Janet Mary, O.P. Hometown: Hong Kong & Vancouver, B.C. Religion & Math Language Departments
Sister Nicholas Marie, O.P. Hometown: Warsaw, Poland Math Department
Sister Philip Joseph, O.P.
not pictured
Hometown: Nashville, Tennessee Director of Academy Advancement
Student leaders: Back row (left) Rachel Maher '15 (Class Secretary) and Christina Ruzzi '13 (Class Vice President). Front row (left) Megan McDermott '15 (Class Chaplain) and Anastasia Countiss '13 (Student Council President).
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On Campus
Sailor Hams It Up with Astronaut by Maggie LaCourse, Class of 2013
On July 18, 2012, I arrived at the National Electronics Museum with no idea what to expect. I was scheduled to attend the ARISS program (Amateur Radio on the International Space Station), per the request of my teacher, Ms. Claire Sargo, for a new class at Mount de Sales, Great Explorations: Investigations in Math, Science, and Technology. I quickly learned that Amateur Radio, also called Ham Radio, is a hobby where licensed users around the world communicate via Ham Radio, using their skills for both recreation and public service. The Ham Radio works by bouncing short radio waves between the Earth and the atmosphere, which are able to reach anywhere in the world. Regulated by the AARL (American Radio Relay League), an association of Amateur Radio users, at least 750,000 people in the United States are licensed to operate, and millions of people all over the world utilize Ham Radio. The National Electronics Museum, located near BWI, was conceived in 1973 by Westinghouse Defense and Electronics Systems as a way to display their products to the families of employees. Now under the direction of Northrop Grumman, the museum has evolved throughout the years and it is now a place for the public to see and understand technological advances. It encompasses fields such as the development of radio, radar, televisions, microwaves, computers, technology used during war, and space satellites.
8
A walk through the museum is like a walk through history, as every exhibit contains a historical piece and explanation of its importance. The museum also hosts many programs, such as ARISS and a program that I am currently attending,
YESS (Young Engineers and Scientists Seminars), which focuses on educating young people about the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) fields and corresponding occupations. In order to obtain a Technician License to communicate over the Ham Radio, one must pass a 35-question test that covers topics such as basic regulations, operation practices, and an understanding of how radios work. From experience, passing the test is much easier said than done! As part of the program, I went to weekly classes for two months, putting in about 27 hours of class time. I also read the entirety of the Ham Radio License Manual, and studied for many hours before the test by reviewing study guides and taking practice tests. However, all that hard work definitely paid off as I passed the
test in August and received a Technician License, which doesn't expire until 2022. My friends lovingly refer to it as my "nerd license." The goal of ARISS, sponsored by NASA, AARL, and AMSAT, was to prepare students to contact the International Space Station via Amateur Radio. Amateur Radio volunteers, Rol Anders and Dan Zeitlin, held special classes to prepare about 11 teenagers for the licensing test, covering topics such as an introduction to Ham Radio, radio signals, fundamentals of radio, electricity components, circuits, propagation, antennas, feedlines, radio equipment, communicating with other Hams, licensing regulations, operating regulations, and safety. However, I learned much more than just facts. We learned soldering, created our own circuits, and were invited to explore the museum.
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On Campus I will be the first to admit that sometimes it’s hard to focus on Amateur Radio when you could be hanging out with your friends. But overall, I definitely enjoyed the program. This license allows me to utilize Ham Radio to contact people all over the world - not that I have time with homework and college applications! In practice communications, we spoke to someone in Iowa, and another person in Europe. Believe it or not, it is scary to speak to a complete stranger who is halfway across the world, using only radio waves. In addition to contacting others on Earth, we worked towards contacting the International Space Station (ISS) on September 1. The date rolled around and I was very excited. It is not everyday that you can make contact with the International Space Station! I had my questions prepared: "What’s the smallest object on earth you can identify from space?" and "How many times a day do you circle the earth?"
Our contact window was only ten minutes, so we had to make sure everything was correctly set up and ready. We even had a back-up radio just in case. When everything was set, we waited. The Space Station came into view on our map, and the room was silent. There was crackling. Nothing. The call sign was repeated again. Still nothing. Then Sunita Williams, an astronaut on the ISS, responded. We had made contact! We took turns asking questions, and suddenly it was my turn. “This is Maggie, KB3ZDX, What’s the smallest object on earth you can identify from space?” The answer was astounding. With the naked eye, Astronaut Williams had seen the Statue of Liberty, and her next goal was the Great Wall of China. More questions were asked. It was my turn again. I said my name and my brand new call sign, and then, “How many times a day do you circle the earth?” The answer: 16. WOW.
Outside of the National Electronics Museum from left: Ms. Wills '99, Ms. Sargo and her daughter, Bellina, Maggie, Maggie's parents, Mr. and Mrs. William LaCourse, and Principal, Sister Mary Thomas, O.P.
The contact finished, and applause commenced. Obligatory pictures were taken. Quite simply, it was fun. Only when discussing my summer with others did I realize what a unique experience I was offered. So, thank you, Ms. Sargo, for asking a person who can’t say ‘no’ to earn an Amateur Radio License. I had a blast earning my Technician License and I have Mount de Sales Academy and the National Electronics Museum to thank!
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9
Alumnae News
Genevieve Murphy '09
Rachel Drummond '06
Paris, France
Rachel frequently travels for her work at Amiee Lynn Accessories Inc. Most recently, her travels have taken her to Paris. She also spends time traveling to London.
Genevieve traveled to London to participate in the Hansard Scholars Programme. Through the program, she interned for Parliament, wrote a dissertation, and took two classes at the London School of Economics. London, England
Ashley Prince '04 Ashley was part of a small group of seven graduate architecture students from the Catholic University of America invited to live in Lisbon and work as an artist-in-residence at Carpe Diem Arte e Pesquisa, a modern art museum and library in the historic Palacio Pombal. Lisbon, Portugal
Where in the
World? We put the call out to all Alumnae: share with us your most recent travel adventures, whether it be through a study abroad program or with your current employer! The result? Our Alumnae are
Allison George '06
traversing the globe and excited to share their
Allison traveled to Belize on a service trip as an
journeys with you.
undergraduate student at Mount St. Mary’s University.
We at Mount de Sales Academy are so proud of
Mount de Sales is proud
our graduates and look forward to hearing from more Alumnae Sailors across the seas! Let's keep the conversation going...visit our Mount de Sales Academy facebook page and click on the "Where in the World?" album to share your story. We wish all of our Alumnae safe travels.
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St. Christopher, pray for us!
to welcome Allison to its Belize
faculty this year!
Alumnae News
Josephine Ioime '08
Hilary Badger '10 Hilary is currently studying abroad at the University of Copenhagen where she was accepted into the Political Science
Josephine just returned from Daejeon, South Korea where she worked as a teacher of English to Kindergarten, Primary, and Elementary school-age children. She also studied abroad through Stevenson University in Ireland, England, and France. Daejeon, South Korea
department.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Kathleen Wills '99 Maria Surdokas '07
Leuven, Belgium
Maria traveled to Belgium as she studied abroad at Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, the oldest Catholic university in the world (founded in 1425). At home Maria studies at Loyola University Maryland.
Liz Skora '09 Liz traveled abroad to the Prati neighborhood
Hong Kong
For the sixth summer, Kathleen, Chair of the MDSA Math Department, worked for the Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth program. This summer, she traveled to Hong Kong where she taught Inductive and Deductive Reasoning.
Kristin Abt '06 Kristin traveled to Indonesia for positions with Orangutan Foundation International and the Orangutan Health Project as a University of Maryland graduate student. She also traveled to Costa Rica and Malaysia with Loyola University, Maryland. Central Kalimantan, North Sumatra
of Rome, Italy through an undergraduate program with Rome, Italy
Catholic University.
Allison Hunter '06 Katy Kreft '10 Katy is currently studying abroad at Bond University in Australia. When she is home she studies at Washington College.
Sydney, Australia
Allison traveled to Sydney for World Youth Day with Mount St. Mary’s University Campus Ministry. She also studied abroad at American Institute for Foreign Study in London and participated in a service trip to Belize.
Gold Coast, Australia
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Alumnae News
Visit our Facebook page to check out the HOF album!
Mount de Sales Academy’s
Hall of Fame
Athletic Induction Ceremony • Saturday, November 10, 2012 The third class of the Mount de Sales Academy Athletic Hall of Fame was inducted on November 10. Five athletes, one coach and an undefeated lacrosse team were recognized and honored that evening. The keynote speaker was Mr. O.J. Brigance, the Baltimore Ravens Senior Advisor to Player Development, former Ravens player and a member on the Super Bowl winning team. He captivated the audience with his words and video. “O.J. was truly inspirational and an outstanding addition to a wonderful evening,” said Clare Audy, Hall of Fame chair and MDSA Assistant Athletic Director. “The story of his refusal to give in to ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease) and the message he presented to the audience was uplifting.” Mr. Brigance was diagnosed with ALS, a motor neuron disease, in 2008 and he gave his speech with the aid of an interactive computer generated voice.
As the evening’s Master of Ceremonies, Lisa Banbury Vogel '95 and 2010 HOF inductee, introduced each of the inductees to the audience of 135 in the Music Hall. “What an incredible honor to be recognized tonight among friends and family for your accomplishments,” Mrs. Vogel stated. “There have been many great women who have graced these halls, fields, and courts … and to excel to such a high level is quite an accomplishment and you deserve the accolades you receive tonight.” Honored with the Sailors Choice Award for outstanding MDSA teams was the undefeated 1985 lacrosse team, which became champion of the Association of Independent Schools, Catholic League, and the Saint Mary’s Tournament with an overall record of 19 wins and no losses. Sailor Alumnae selected for recognition by the Hall of Fame selection committee were as follows: Sharon Birkett '86, Dr. Cynthia Clark '02, Jenny Held Miller '89, Susan Devlin Switzer '60, Dr. Linda Justice Teodosio '79, and Coach Hank Hofmeister. Athletic Hall of Fame inductions take place every two years and anyone may make a nomination. Information about all of the Hall of Fame members and how to nominate a future Hall of Famer is available by visiting www.mountdesales.org/athletics/ hall-of-fame.
Left: Mr. O.J. Brigance assisted by his wife, Chandra, as he prepares to give his keynote address.
Sailors' Choice: 1985 Lacrosse Team “Winners make it happen. Losers let it happen.” Those words are attributed to Coach Bill Held, describing his 1985 lacrosse team, which made a lot happen. The eighteen players on that Mount de Sales Academy team won all nineteen of their games that season. Among their laurels were:
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• Association of Independent Schools Tournament Champion Defeating Roland Park, 16 to 10, in the finals • Catholic League Champion • St. Mary’s Tournament Champion • Defeated Keough three times • Mount de Sales Academy Athletic Hall of Fame members: Jackie Seboda Pfeiler '86 and Coach Bill Held
1985 team (as provided in yearbook): Standing, Left to Right: Mr. Warren Gemmill, Ms. Stacy Eder, Lynn Liberto, Cathy Wancowicz, Jackie Seboda Pfeiler, Lisa Waring, Aleesha Cougnet, Cathy Fisher, Christy Steer, Cindy Gorsuch, Kara Little, Nina Bulson Stearn, Kathi Warthen Tatum, Mr. Bill Held. Kneeling, Left to Right, Ms. Terri Fisher, Kelly Mulherin Knowles, Jennifer Reynolds Fucci, Lisa Purnell Giampa, Lynda Majerowicz, Maria Kurek, Katherine Lee Bielaski, Shelley Roberts Sovero, and Elizabeth Saverino.
Alumnae News
Sharon Birkett '86 Basketball & Softball As the team’s top rebounder in 1985, Sharon Birkett led the Mount de Sales Academy Basketball team to their second and final Baltimore Catholic League championship in the school’s history. Sharon’s rebounds at a pace of 9.9 per game did not inhibit her from putting points on the board, as she averaged 13.4 points per game. This scoring was in spite of defenses that frequently double and triple teamed her. Her most memorable statistical display came in the four games of the playoff run to the Catholic League crown where she scored a
total of 71 points and had 48 rebounds. The 5-foot, 11-inch tall Sailor was honored for her play as a Catholic League All Metro Team pick (1986); Baltimore Sun Player of the Week; Catonsville Times Player of the Week; and basketball team captain (1984-85; 1985-86). Besides her work on the basketball court, Sharon also played shortstop and first base for the MDSA softball team. After graduating from Mount de Sales, Sharon received a basketball scholarship to play at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. Sharon is now living in Florida where she is a third grade teacher.
Dr. Cynthia Clark '02 Softball & Swimming Being at the forefront was a hallmark of Dr. Cynthia Clark’s athletic career at Mount de Sales Academy. For four years her name appeared on top of the lineup card as the lead-off batter for the softball team providing the start the team needed. And what a start she gave the Sailors! Cynthia had a .375 batting average and a .727 slugging average offensively. On the defensive side of the diamond, she held a .975 field mark at first base and as catcher. For her first three years at MDSA she covered first base, but being a team player, she moved from first base to catcher in her senior year when there was need to fill that crucial spot. In her second sport, swimming, taking first place was also a familiar occurrence. Her biggest win came when she swam to the 100-yard breaststroke title in 2000.
Her softball performances led to her recognition as a member of The Baltimore Sun All Metro first team (2001 and 2002); The Sun’s All Baltimore County 1st team (2000, 2001, 2002); and Interscholastic Athletic Association of Maryland All Star team for Softball and Swimming. After graduating from Mount de Sales, Cynthia attended the University of Maryland, College Park and added rowing to her athletic resume. Dr. Clark is currently a clinical audiologist at the University of Virginia Medical Center where she is the coordinator of the Newborn Hearing Screening Program and is a member of the cochlear implant team. Her athletic participation continues as she is a long distance runner who has qualified for the Boston Marathon.
SPECIAL THANKS! Members who served on the 2012 HOF committee along with Mrs. Audy included: Trish Armstrong P'02 '04 (Varsity Head Basketball coach), Jack Carmody P'01 '05 (JV Head Soccer coach), Fran Daum (former Basketball coach), Bill Held P'89 (former Basketball and Lacrosse coach), Elizabeth Johnson '95 (former Cross Country and Track coach), Mike Tirocchi P'88 '92 (Basketball and Lacrosse coach), Jenna Schuberth '05, and Pete Waskiewicz P'99 (Varsity Head Softball coach).
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Alumnae News
Jenny Held Miller '89 Basketball, Lacrosse, & Soccer Though Jenny Held Miller started her Mount de Sales Academy sports involvement cheering from the sideline, she quickly made the transition to competition star. As the daughter of MDSA Hall of Fame Coach, Bill Held (inducted 2008), much was expected of Jenny and much was accomplished. Jenny was a four-year-three-sport athlete, playing basketball, lacrosse and soccer, and was liberally honored for her efforts. She was named Association of Independent Schools Lacrosse Player of the Year three times (1987, 1988, 1989); Captain of the AIS West All Star Lacrosse Team (1987, 1988, 1989); MDSA MVP; Baltimore Sun Player of the Week; two-time Catonsville Times
Player of the Year; three-year MDSA Lacrosse Captain; Friendship Tournament Most Valuable Player; McCormick Unsung Hero for Basketball; two-year MDSA Soccer Captain. Post Mount de Sales Academy, Jenny played lacrosse on a scholarship at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. While there, she was named East Coast Conference Player of the Year and UMBC Female Athlete of the year in 1992. In 1995, Jenny was named the first head coach for the Mount St. Mary’s University women’s lacrosse program. She later returned to MDSA to help coach the Varsity and JV lacrosse teams. Jenny resides in Marriottsville with her husband John and their three children, Amanda, Carly, and John.
Susan Devlin Switzer '60 “Spirit of Sports” Before a true interscholastic sports program was part of school activities, Susan was named “Spirit of Sports” in the Ionic Columns, the MDSA yearbook. During her freshman year, she was honored with a certificate for her participation in every sport offered at MDSA. In her senior year, she was named the president of the Recreation Club. Susan helped organize students to approach the Alumnae Association and the Visitation Sisters, who then administered MDSA, for permission to travel off campus to play a four-game basketball schedule. That schedule included games against the Institute of Notre Dame, Maryvale and Seton (now Seton Keough) High Schools. Even though MDSA only won one game out of four played, that series initiated the first steps towards true interscholastic competition. Right: Class of 1960 Alumnae helped Susan celebrate her induction. Back row from left: Katherine Dukehart Benzing and Patricia Grubitz Curtis. Front row: Margaret Dukehart Whitney, Susan, Alice Darby Falter, and Katherine Tanner Brusini.
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Following graduation from MDSA, Susan played softball for St. Bernard’s College. She coached softball in Windsor, N.J., for 17 years where she was the league’s first female coach and won more games than any other coach in that league. Susan now lives in South Carolina with her husband George and enjoys photography and time on the golf course.
Alumnae News
Dr. Linda Justice Teodosio '79 Basketball, Lacrosse, & Softball Dr. Linda Justice Teodosio has traveled the world as a sportswoman, but a big part of her start came at Mount de Sales Academy when she scored the first lacrosse goal in Sailor history. That first goal was just the beginning as Linda became the leading MDSA scorer during her four years at MDSA, including eight goals against Archbishop Spalding in her senior year. But prodigious scoring did not hamper her hustle in other parts of the game as she also led the team in ground balls. In the winter, basketball was also on her resume. For two years she was a member of the varsity softball squad in spring before switching to lacrosse in her junior year when the MDSA lacrosse team came into existence in 1978. Linda was selected team captain for basketball and twice for lacrosse. She was also named the team’s Most Valuable Player, Catonsville Times Player of the
Week multiple times and earned a lacrosse scholarship to Loyola University. At Loyola, she started throughout her college career, led the team in scoring percentage, groundballs, and scored nine times off of ten shots against Johns Hopkins University. She played in two national collegiate lacrosse tournaments and was named to the 1982 All Tournament team. Linda was also selected to the All South All Star Team. During Linda’s post-college career, she rose to international status playing games against England, Australia, Japan, Canada, Scotland and Wales. Linda returned to MDSA to help coach the varsity and JV teams and has been a pioneer in the spread of lacrosse to girls throughout Maryland. She lives in Ellicott City with her husband, Fred, and their two children, Taylor and Nicole '12. Linda is a physical therapist working for Frederick Regional Health System as the Rehab Manager for the Home Health Agency.
Hank Hofmeister Basketball Coach 1970 - 1980 Prodded by his wife Marie to heed the call to coach for Mount de Sales Academy Basketball, Hank Hofmeister took over the team reins in 1970. The result of that answered call was the building of a powerhouse team that won MDSA’s first Baltimore Catholic League championship in 1977; was nationally ranked; and regionally recognized. His 1977 team was among the inaugural Mount de Sales Academy Athletic Hall of Fame class in 2008. That team also produced three inductees to the first MDSA Hall of Fame Class: Margie Hook Nicholson '77 and sisters, Kay Reymann Burch ’80 and Teresa Reymann ‘80. These results came despite playing their games at their opponents’ home court as MDSA did not have a gymnasium to call its own. But it wasn’t only the on-court achievements that garnered Hank’s
inclusion in the MDSA Hall of Fame. It was the accolades presented by his players in nominating him. Margie Hook Nicholson '77 wrote, “Mr. Hank’s impact on my life goes way beyond my four years at MDSA. He and I lost touch over the years but I have taken a part of him with me as I took on my own responsibilities as a Mom and coach/mentor to young basketball and tennis players.” Julie Lupinek Biggs ’77 added, “He was much more than a coach to his players. He was mentor, teacher, father figure, role model, leader and most of all, friend.” “Mr. Hank was also well respected by other schools and was dignified in the way he treated others,” she added. “He never ran up the scores or tried to embarrass opponents or fellow coaches. His gentle demeanor was contagious.” Hank now resides in Virginia with his family.
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Alumnae News
Louise Kricker Dodd '32 It is no secret that Mount de Sales Academy is a place that makes a lasting impression. In regard to Louise Kricker Dodd, this lasting mark is obvious. This summer, Louise celebrated a remarkable birthday - 100 years. Louise’s niece contacted the Alumnae Relations Director at Mount de Sales to share this milestone since Louise has “always loved Mount de Sales so much.” This rejuvenated a relationship between Mount de Sales and Louise, who we believe is our oldest living alumna. Louise graduated from Mount de Sales Academy eighty years ago in 1932. She was a boarding student who attended Mount de Sales not only through high school, but also part of middle school, as she started classes in the seventh grade. Reconnecting with Louise is a special gift that the community of Mount de Sales cherishes. Former Alumnae Relations Director, Jenna Schuberth '05, and student, Cassie Jordan '13 visited Louise at her home at Mercy Ridge. Upon entering Louise’s apartment, she immediately extended a warm welcome with open arms and excitement. Louise 16
was interested in the current state of Mount de Sales and asked about the 1852 building. She inquired if the porches were still intact and wondered if we enjoyed them as much as she did. She was curious about the students’ current uniforms and compared them to her own. Louise questioned whether the Chapel of St. Francis de Sales is still in use; when she learned that it was, she was delighted to hear that daily Mass is offered in the mornings. Louise makes a point to travel to the in-house chapel at Mercy Ridge every morning for Mass. With a fond smile, Louise noted Mount de Sales had a reputation for being strict; laughing, she shared that she regularly complained about the rules and work, but she knows the school shaped her into the woman she is today. The greatest moment in the visit with Louise was watching her view her graduation photo. Her eyes lit up as she glanced at her fellow classmates. She was able to identify most of their names and was able to point out her roommate, Margaret Crocket ’32. It was beautiful to see that the friendship between Sailors was just as strong then as it is now.
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Alumnae News
What was most evident in Louise’s stories and in her comparisons with the school today was the sense of pride. Despite the eighty years that passed since she walked the halls as a student, Louise is proud to have gone to Mount de Sales Academy where the Visitation Nuns influenced her daily. Her pride soared as she listened to facts about Mount de Sales present day: where the school is at right now in our Capital Campaign, that there are nearly 500 students currently enrolled, and that everyone at Mount de Sales Academy is rooted in faith. This pride and appreciation are shared by our alumnae and it is something that is unmatched in other schools. Louise is a shining example of the impact Mount de Sales Academy can have on not only an alumna’s character, but also an alumna’s heart. We are so grateful to Louise for sharing her special MDSA memories with us. Happy Birthday, Louise!
Student Volunteers Team up with Alumnae Dads for MDSA Service Project
“Love begins in the home.” This quote from Blessed Mother Teresa of Calcutta embodies the mission of the Teens for Catholic Action club (TFCA). Recognizing that we are called to serve our families first, TFCA members kicked off the 2012-2013 school year with their annual work camp and sleep over. The TFCA Core Team, led by senior Leah Henry, ran the event and encouraged the participation of the freshman class in particular as a way to jump into the Sailor sisterhood and meet new friends. Mr. Cohagan, Director of Operations, husband of MDSA graduate Mrs. Cohagan '78, father of two MDSA graduates, Kate '07 and Corinne '11, and an 1852 Crew member, began the work camp on Friday evening with his personal testimony and reason for his own service at Mount de Sales Academy. Mr. Cohagan gives credit to Mount de Sales for helping to form Mrs. Cohagan into the wonderful person, wife, and mother that she is. Before gathering in the chapel for prayers and songs, students spent the evening scrubbing stairwells and dusting pews. Students then raced back to their sleeping areas to break out their snacks and the games, movies, and laughter began. On Saturday morning the students were joined at 8:00 a.m. Mass by the 1852 Crew. The 1852 Crew, unknown by many students, is comprised of past and current Sailor dads who quietly and freely give their weekend and weeknight time to repair and maintain the school. These dedicated fathers led the TFCA campers in a re-painting of the school cafeteria, window washing, and the scrubbing of cafeteria chairs. The TFCA Core Team was assisted in the coordination of the event by chaperones Mrs. Verch and Ms. McDonald. When asked her impression of the weekend Ms. McDonald said, “It always amazes me what wonderful, faithful, and service-filled girls we have here at MDSA! I have been here three years now, and yet these girls still amaze me with their willingness to serve and give of themselves.” Thank you TFCA and workcamp volunteers and chaperones – thank you for the love with which you serve our Sailor family. TFCA also sponsors the iPray Adoration series. The next iPray is the iPray for Life on Thursday, January 24 at 7:00 p.m. Join us for prayer, confessions, and music followed by dancing. Contact Sister Amelia at samelia@mountdesales.org with questions.
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Alumnae News
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Jennifer Blair Bliven '96 and husband Donald G. Bliven, II welcomed their second child, Reece Alexander Bliven, on May 22, 2012. Reece joins sister, Ciara, age 4. Jennifer is a Clinical Coordinator for Maternity Services at Saint Luke's East Hospital in Lee's Summit, MO, where the couple currently resides.
Stacy Bridge Morsberger '03 and her husband, Mike, welcomed their first baby, Heidi on April 16, 2012. Heidi weighed 6 lbs, 9 oz.
00s........................... Trish Hahn Baldwin '02 was promoted to Classified Sales Manager, Recruitment with The Baltimore Sun. Trish will be responsible for leading the recruitment and in-bound teams and working closely with the TRG call center. She is responsible for all BSMG revenue in the recruitment, private party and obituary categories. Trish is a graduate of UMBC with supplemental training in Promax Sales Training and Consulting, and CareerBuilder Products and Sales.
Kristy Armstrong Moore '04 and her husband, Justin, celebrated the birth of their daughter, Riley Marie, born July 21, 2012. Congratulations also to Riley's grandmother, Trish Armstrong, Mount de Sales Academy's head Varsity Basketball coach!
Danielle Ko Gaspar ’03 and her husband, Brian, welcomed their first child, Lena Therese Gaspar into the world on August 26, 2012. Megan Kunkle '08 graduated from Stevenson University in 2012 with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education. Megan currently teaches third grade at the School of The Cathedral of Mary Our Queen on Charles Street.
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Alumnae News
Annual Crab Feast The Mount de Sales Academy Crab Feast held on October 13 was a highlight this fall for our alumnae, friends, and family. This year brought several changes for this annual event which was hosted by the Alumnae Association. This is the first year the event moved from the outdoor parking lot on campus to the Constance and Pistorio Sports Complex, the first year the event was held in October, and the first year the event was catered by Monaghan's Pub - all major changes that had a positive impact on the event! The atmosphere was full of fellowship and fun. This night was especially meaningful for the classes of 1977 and 1987; both classes used this on-campus event to reunite! Gathered together at tables reserved just for them, it was great to see these former Sailors together again and having fun! The Alumnae Association is so grateful to all who were a part of the night. Thank you for joining us and we hope to see everyone again next year!
Class of 1987 Reunion
In Memoriam Please pray for the following people who have entered eternal life: Kathy Vaile Rosner '85 Norma Wheatley '47 Kyle Alexander (nephew of Renee Miller, MDSA staff member) Thomas Booth (friend of MDSA) Ren Bucci (uncle of Judi Lanciotti, MDSA Vice Principal) James McDonald (grandfather of Annie McDonald, MDSA faculty member) Rosemary Gaine (grandmother of Sarah MacLean '14) Timothy M. Hillman (stepson of Bernadette Hillman '69, stepbrother of Renee Russell Hagan '92 and Christine Russell Duda '95, brother-in-law of Lisa Fonte Hillman '80) John Hudson (grandfather of McKenzie Hutchinson '14) Michelle Simone Janson (sister of Giselle Ko P'03 '05 '07 and MDSA faculty member, aunt of Danielle Ko Gaspar '03, Elizabeth Ko Elfrey '05, and Emily Ko '07) Frank Johnson (grandfather of Amanda ’14 and Hannah Ignacio ’16) Patrick “Scunny” McCusker (husband of Jacqueline Falter McCusker '86, son-in-law of Frank and Alice Marie Falter '60, brother-in-law of Deborah Doll '84, and uncle of Deanna Doll '15) Elizabeth Meehan (mother of Bettie Meehan Dragin ’59, and grandmother of Robin Dragin Reed ’86 and Nancy Dragin Van Hollen ’81) William (Bill) Ritz (husband of Barbara Leister Ritz '55) Richard Sauter (brother of Michael Sauter and uncle of Kathryn ’13 and Megan Sauter ’14) Harold Wulforst (stepfather of John Lombardi and step-grandfather of Elyse ’05 and Jordan Lombardi ’10) Tim Welsh (former spouse of Sue Welsh '60)
Alumnae Save-the-Dates
Mark your calendar and join us for an upcoming on-campus event! Check out mountdesales.org for more information, including RSVP dates.
Jan 9
Alumnae Trivia Night from 6 - 8 p.m. for recent graduates in the Music Hall.
Mar 24
Alumnae Easter Egg Hunt beginning at 12 noon on the Piazza.
May 25
161st Commencement Ceremony at 3:30 p.m. in the Music Hall. Members of the Class of 1963 are our honored guests.
Please send your news or the name of a loved one for inclusion in the View from the Cupola to Karen von Lange P'09 '16 at kvonlange@mountdesales.org. If you would like to include a photo, please e-mail a high resolution .jpg or .tif file along with your alumnae update.
Class of 1987 reunions attendees, with Sister Philip Joseph, O.P. Front row, from left: Chris Mellor Cline, Sister Philip Joseph, Cristina Manelli Gruss, Michelle Nunn Mahan, Colleen Kroneberger Lafferty, Judy Smolenski Sieg, and Jennifer Reynolds Fucci. Second row: Lisa Waring Williams, Christine Pigoski Fisher, Caterina Manelli Walsh, Erin Dower Lanthier, Theresa Hodge, Regina Fuerte-Smith, and Dawn Richardson Ryckman. Third row: Amy Young Hocheder Dever, Jill Hocheder Anthony, Lynda Majerowicz, Maria Kurek, Beverly Geimen Crizer, and Doreen DiSibio Stovenour.
Please pardon our correction from View from the Cupola v.28 i.2. On page 16, Alison Farmer's first name was misspelled.
Have you recently moved or do you have a new e-mail address? Contact Daniela Petchik ’03 via e-mail at dpetchik@ mountdesales.org or by phone 410.744.8498 x137.
You are invited to follow Mount de Sales Academy on Twitter @MDSAhighschool. We invite all Alumnae, friends, and families to "Like" the "Mount de Sales Academy" page on Facebook. Join the Mount de Sales Academy Alumnae networking group on LinkedIn.
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Congrats!
National Merit Scholarship Program
Commended Students
Commended Students placed among the top five percent of more than 1.5 million students who entered the 2013 competition by taking the 2011 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT速).
Congratulations to the nine Mount de Sales Academy Seniors who were named Commended Students in the 2013 National Merit速 Scholarship Program! Seated from left: Grace Woo, Veronica Rittie, Marina Congedo, Claire Halligan, Colleen Finley, Helen Rogers, Meghan Brown, Mary Connolly, and Ashley Santana-Trebes.