Wishing the best to the Class of 2023, whose spirit of compassion and enthusiasm has brought joy and inspiration to the entire Sacred Heart Greenwich community.
As we reflect upon the past year, we are filled with gratitude for the tremendous support from our community, and it is with great pleasure that we share the latest edition of Horizons, a collection of stories that highlight the incredible ways our students are living out the Goals and Criteria of a Sacred Heart education. Within these pages, you will find inspiring accounts of faith, academic excellence, leadership, service, and environmental stewardship.
We are immensely proud of the transformative experiences our students have had within the classroom, on the playing field, on the stage, in the lab, and through our network exchange programs. These opportunities have broadened their horizons, fostered cultural understanding, deepened their faith, and enriched their educational journeys.
As we celebrate the triumphs of the past year, we extend our deepest appreciation to Kathleen Plunkett O’Connor ’89, P’20, ’21, ’22 for her exceptional leadership as board chair over the past five years. Under her guidance, the school has flourished, and we are honored to build upon the strong foundation she has continued. Kathleen’s unwavering commitment to the Sacred Heart Greenwich mission has played a vital role in shaping the experiences of our students, and we are profoundly grateful for her service and remarkable contributions.
We eagerly anticipate the possibilities that lie ahead, and we look forward to working with you in support of Pursuing Excellence, our five-year strategic plan that the Board of Trustees recently adopted and that we intend to operationalize as we begin our 175th year here at Sacred Heart Greenwich. Together, we can shape a future that upholds the cherished values and remarkable legacy of a Sacred Heart Greenwich education.
Cor Unum, Michael F. Baber President
2022-2023 Board of Trustees
Kathleen Plunkett O’Connor ’89, P’20, ’21, ’22, Chair
Lynne Newman P’17, ’21, ’26, Vice Chair
Sandra O’Connor P’19, ’23, Secretary
Ryan Sfreddo P’24, ’25, Treasurer
Emily Bailey Berry P’28
Maureen Mara Brown ’82, P’19
Sandra Caruso P’18, ’20, ’23
Imma De Stefanis RSCJ Ph.D.
Christine Di Capua P’23
Regina Gannon P’23, ’28
Paula Gruner, RSCJ
Karen Finneran Hamilton
P’19, ’22, ’27
Carmen Edelweise Hughes
P ’27, ’31
Thomas D. Lehrman P’22, ’32
Dr. Alexandra Lewis ’01
Christopher Marangi P’22, ’24, ’25, ’34
Peter A. Marshall P’22
Kevin C. McCooey P’28
Jennie Stone P’31, Parents Association President
Margot Dolce Sturz ’99, Alumnae Association President
Sacred Heart Greenwich, founded in 1848, is an independent, Catholic, college preparatory school for young women from kindergarten through grade 12, with a coed early childhood education program.
Sacred Heart, steeped in a solid academic tradition, educates women to have independence of judgment, personal freedom, and strength of character so that they can become leaders with broad intellectual and spiritual horizons.
The school welcomes students of all races, socioeconomic backgrounds, and religious beliefs. True to its international heritage, the school provides students with experiences of diversity.
Cultivating prophetic leaders is a compelling commitment of our education, and the entire school community, and as a member of the Sacred Heart Network of Schools, it is dedicated to the Goals and Criteria:
› A personal and active faith in God
› A deep respect for intellectual values
› A social awareness which impels to action
› The building of community as a Christian value
› Personal growth in an atmosphere of wise freedom.
President
Michael F. Baber
Editors
Jennifer Bensen, Associate Head of School for Student Life
Megan Monaghan
Communications Manager
Meghan Mara Ryan ’01
Director of Alumnae Relations
Laura Plunkett
Director of Strategic Marketing and Communications
Erin Snopkowski ’17
Communications Associate
Contributing Writers
Megan Monaghan
Laura Plunkett
Meghan Mara Ryan ’01
Erin Snopkowski ’17
Photography
Jim Healey
John McKeith
Megan Monaghan
Erin Snopkowski ’17
Design
Good Design LLC
Printing: Service
Three
On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I want to extend our deepest gratitude for your dedicated service to Sacred Heart Greenwich and your commitment to the role and responsibilities of the board, to the financial sustainability of the school, and to the fidelity to the mission of a Sacred Heart education.
The board’s focus over the course of your tenure is best summed up by Janet Erskine Stuart, RSCJ, who says, “Epochs of transition must keep us on alert. They ask us to keep our eyes on the distant horizons, our minds listening to seize every indication that can enlighten us; reflection, searching must never stop; the mind must keep flexible to lose nothing, to acquire any knowledge that can aid our mission. Let us not rest on our beautiful past.”
Our priorities have been rooted in the school’s mission and its commitment to academic excellence and student success. Our guiding principles focused on staying true to the Goals and Criteria, building on the value and opportunities of all-girls education, attracting leadership talent, and offering a student-centered approach to learning. We focused on ways to build strength and capability
in operations, institutional advancement, and financial management.
The results of that are reflected in what we achieved under your leadership. Collectively, these accomplishments reinforce the school’s commitment to innovation and to delivering an outstanding student experience across academics, arts, athletics, and student well-being.
> Partnership in the school’s ongoing Strategic Design process and Space Study/Master Plan preparation.
> Investment in resources and talent to strengthen cross-divisional and crossdisciplinary approaches to learning and teaching and to ensure consistently high standards of rigor, engagement, and excellence.
> Creation of the board’s Living Our Mission committee to affirm and elevate the way in which we live our mission as a community of faith, with particular focus on key elements of the student experience: Leadership & Wellness, One Heart (EDI), and Education to Mission.
> Enhancements and creation of studentcentered spaces: Student Health & Wellness Suite, renovated Lower School art room, Upper
School Core Center, Greenhouse for Mustard Seeds Program, Student Snack Bar, Field Access Stairs, renovated Pool Locker Room and Lower School hallways.
> Successful implementation of a comprehensive $1 million-plus COVID-19 response plan and safety protocols.
> Rebuilding of the school’s Leadership Team and Board.
> Growth of the school’s endowment by more than 40 percent, from $32 million to over $46 million and extinguishment of all long-term debt.
> Most successful Fund for Sacred Heart Greenwich in our school history, raising $2.239 million in 2021-2022. For 2022-2023, we again exceeded our ambitious target, achieving over $2.2 million.
> Creation of several mission and merit-based scholarship opportunities.
> Establishment of our girls’ ice hockey program.
St. Madeleine Sophie Barat’s vision of education evolved during a period of profound change and complexity. Your leadership has been an example of how courage and confidence are a source of inspiration and action when confronted with challenges and uncertainty. Like all schools, we faced rapid educational changes and unexpected challenges over the past several years. Your steadfast commitment to preserving and leveraging all that is special and enduring about Sacred Heart Greenwich never wavered, enabling us to navigate these challenging times and position the school for a bright future.
Members of the board can attest to the strength of your leadership, which is characterized by honesty, integrity, perseverance, and decisiveness. Your sense of purpose and conviction helped move the board in new directions with the goal of building on our strong foundation and powerful history, and positioning Sacred Heart Greenwich for its next beautiful chapter.
On a personal level, we will miss your stories and amazing sense of humor. It has been an honor to serve as your vice chair and to partner with you over the past five years. I am grateful for the enduring friendship we developed. We often talk about the importance of becoming involved in our community, and for me, our friendship has been a vivid example of the wonderful lifelong benefits of being a part of this special place — connections made, lessons learned, memories shared, and relationships formed.
We will miss your spirit and enthusiasm but know you will always be close to our hearts and wishing Sacred Heart Greenwich continued success in the days and years to come. A special shout-out also goes to the O’Connor family — Kevin, Erin ’20, Mary ’21, Annie ’22, and James ’24 Brunswick — for their willingness to share you with us.
With gratitude,
Lynne Newman P’17, ’21, ’26 Vice Chair, Board of Trustees
The Sacred Heart Greenwich Community Comes Together in Annual Day of Service
This year Sacred Heart Greenwich partnered with Hour Children, an organization that provides services to incarcerated women and their children. To educate students about this program, Alex White, nurse manager at Hour Children, joined the Freshman Retreat to discuss the value Hour Children provides to families and how their organization is deeply rooted in faith.
The partnership continued on November 19, when more than 120 students, parents, alumnae, and faculty gathered for a Community Day of Service. Together, Sacred Heart Greenwich and Hour Children hosted a baby shower to benefit new mothers at the Bedford Hills Correctional Facility. Participants purchased infant clothing, blankets, bottles, toys, bedding, diapers, and more, and together sorted and wrapped over 211 gifts.
Kerry Bader, director of Mission Integration and Upper School theology teacher, coordinated both events. “The Day of Service is a way for our community to come together to live out one of the corporal works of mercy: to visit the imprisoned,” she says. “Central to the development of our relationship with God is an understanding about the dignity of all people. In James II, we hear, ‘What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith, but not works?’”
“The Day of Service is a way for our community to come together to live out one of the corporal works of mercy: to visit the imprisoned. Central to the development of our relationship with God is an understanding about the dignity of all people. In James II, we hear, ‘What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith, but not works?’”
—Kerry Bader, Director of Mission Integration and Upper School theology teacher
On September 8 at the Mass of the Holy Spirit, Bishop Caggiano installed 24 members of the Class of ’23 as Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion. This important ministry allows these students to distribute Communion at liturgies that take place throughout the school year, allowing them to serve as visible examples of Goal I to our entire Sacred Heart Greenwich community.
1st Row L-R
Jenny Di Capua, Kate Nemec, Vivi Caruso, Annie Cornell, Katie May, Victoria Zacco, Delfina Gonzalez Lobo, Sinclair Noonan
2nd Row L-R
Michael F. Baber, Martina Bernal, Abby Searles, Nieve Beyer, Lauren Drummey, Ines Araujo, Isabella Leao, Most Reverend Frank J. Caggiano
3rd Row L-R
Eva Kim, Catherine Dodman, Lili Jordan, Laura O’Connor, Lulu Caruso, Jackie Franco, Olivia Caponiti, Charlotte Gannon, Lindsay Benza
Missing Zara Black
Quiet Prayer, Meditation, and the Rosary : Led by Vincent Badagliacca H’22, Upper School history teacher and Department Chair, students, faculty, and staff enjoy the chance to pray the rosary together. All are welcome to participate, offer intentions, or simply listen.
Newly designed “hubs” in math, humanities, science, and world language have been introduced this year. In these hubs, teachers provide academic support and one-on-one or in small group coaching. In addition, students can make appointments with their academic teachers for extra help. They also may select peer tutoring or take advantage of independent study time.
Wednesdays look a little different in the Upper School, thanks to the introduction of the GOALS program. GOALS is a period of time each week when students choose to participate in opportunities aligned with each of the Goals and Criteria. GOALS provides meaningful, productive, and fun community time that often is hard to find within the busy academic day.
“GOALS was formed from a threefold impetus,” explains Marcie McDonald, Interim Head of the Upper School and Academic Dean. “First, there was a critical need for some less structured time to address the academic ramifications from COVID. GOALS also provides a focus on wellness, while celebrating the sense of community and relationships that make our Upper School community unique.”
The weekly exercise of evaluating their needs and interests invites students to be independent and disciplined in making wise choices. Karen Panarella, Assistant Head of Upper School, says, “Students appreciate GOALS as an opportunity to explore activities that may not be in their regular schedule. Students have been able to spend time in art, develop relationships with teachers, or participate in elective programs, such as Rock the Street Wall Street.”
Each week, Upper Schoolers may choose to volunteer with our youngest students in the Barat Center or package gift bags for homeless veterans. Other students participate in “Podcast for Social Change,” while another group is involved with Earth Day planning.
GOALS presents the perfect meeting opportunity for the student clubs that require more time. Robotics, Chess Club, Film Club, and Mock Trial are examples of four student organizations that benefit from the extended period. Many students also enjoy the opportunity to visit the Open Art Studio for a chance to activate their creativity.
Dr. Bill Mottolese, or “Doc Mott,” as he is affectionately known by students, has been a beloved fixture in the Sacred Heart Greenwich English Department for 18 years. As chair of the department, Dr. Mottolese also teaches Senior Seminar and 10th grade English Literature. Many students remember Doc Mott as a transformative teacher. Izzy Parker ’16 writes, “When I think about my [SHG] experience, I think of Doc Mott. He was an outstanding teacher…a constant personal mentor and trusted advisor. Anyone who gets to take a class with Doc Mott is very lucky.”
Others know Dr. Mottolese’s dedicated work with the Red Cloud Indian School, building a rich relationship between Sacred Heart Greenwich and Red Cloud that has resulted in
faculty visits, student service trips, philanthropy, professional development support for teachers at Red Cloud, and shared experiences between students at both schools through Zoomed author talks, pen pal programs, and art exchanges.
In the midst of these many endeavors, Dr. Mottolese is also the quiet engine behind “contemplative time,” a weekly offering of prayer and meditation open to all faculty and staff. A moment of calm before the hustle bustle of the school day begins, contemplative time is an invitation to silence, with the goal of reorganizing one’s mind and spirit around centering words and a feeling of peace.
Contemplative time often begins with a reading from a theologian or an RSCJ, followed by a period of stillness. The silence works as a
tuning fork, sharpening our awareness of mystery, while quieting the mind so that God’s voice can be heard.
Dr. Mottolese explains, “The idea is to move beyond words into a deeper spirituality. It feeds the soul of a faculty to pray in community with one another and to sit in silence as a community. The experience slows us, it centers us. We then bring that contemplative spirit into our classrooms.”
In fact, many classrooms at Sacred Heart Greenwich do incorporate prayer, introspection, and Espacio (or “sacred space”) to calm the classroom energy, ignite more thoughtful, open minds, and allow God’s voice to be heard.
Dr. Mottolese begins his Senior Seminar classes with a prayer, often led by students.
“When I first started teaching Senior Seminar, I was struck by the notion that this is, in part, a theology course,” says Dr. Mottolese. “So it feels very natural to begin with prayer, or a meditation. We work on breathing. We reflect.”
A few minutes of contemplative prayer for students often shapes the tone of the class to follow. “I think it helps settle them and clear their minds,” shares Dr. Mottolese. “At times they come in carrying stress, and I will say, OK, let’s do a meditation, and it helps.” In fact, research shows that leaning on serenity not only reduces stress, but plays a role in boosting energy, improving test scores, and enhancing memory.
While contemplative time is a useful lever to influence the class dynamics, his larger hope is that this practice deepens his students’ relationship with God. This work aligns with the calls to justice and action that resonate with Dr. Mottolese and his beliefs in Catholic social teaching.
“What really draws me to the Sacred Heart mission is that it is grounded in social justice. The RSCJs never lost track of the fact that their schools are designed to create a loving world. If you are doing the internal work of a Sacred Heart educator, you’re on a faith journey and doing justice work,” he says.
“Every community needs quiet time,” he adds. “And really, let God do the work.”
For close to 25 years, the Science Research program at Sacred Heart Greenwich has been a hub of research and discovery. Guided by science research teacher, Mary Musolino H’08, Science Research students are largely self-directed in a perfect embodiment of the Goals and Criteria. Do these students demonstrate a deep respect for intellectual values? Check. Are they committed to personal growth in an atmosphere of wise freedom? Double check. Furthermore, many program participants undertake research designed to solve critical social issues, such as public health problems and environmental stewardship. Sounds like Goal III, right?
The Science Research journey begins in ninth grade when students who have been accepted into the program identify a real-world problem and pursue original and authentic scientific research in their area of interest. In the course of their study, students develop a research question and design a plan to complete experimentation. Throughout their sophomore and junior years, students continue research, connect with mentors, conduct experiments, and analyze data. Their hard work culminates in 12th grade, when all participants are expected to present their research at science fairs and competitions. It’s a rigorous path and requires students to draw upon all of their scientific knowledge and lean on skills in critical thinking and creativity. “I really enjoy observing the sense of wonder each student exhibits throughout her project,” says Ms. Musolino, “and the student’s sense of accomplishment when the project is completed and presented to the outside scientific community.”
This year has been notable for the Science Research program, with several students winning awards and recognition for their innovative work. Charlotte Gannon ’23, Isabella Leao ’23, Katie May ’23, and Robin Murphy ’23 comprise Team “Next Stop Mars Explorers,” and won Best Experimental Design in the High School Division in the Plant Mars Competition. This competition challenges students to grow crops and maximize plant yield in a mixture of substances created to mirrors the properties of
real Martian soil. The Next Stop Mars Explorers team hypothesized that enhancing the Martian soil with a superabsorbent polymer that quickly absorbs and then slowly releases water and nutrients might enable crop successful production. They also discovered which plants thrive best in this unique soil compound — radishes and arugula!
Olivia Ritossa ’24 created an innovative bioplastic, an organic material that mimics the durability of traditional plastics; however, unlike their permanent counterparts, bioplastics
are environmentally friendly and break down over time. Olivia’s bioplastic is generated from banana peels, graphene, and psyllium husk, all biodegradable. In addition to its strength and resilience, Olivia’s bioplastic is unique because unlike real plastics, this material is thermally and electrically conductive. The project is both inventive and timely because it poses a solution to the tremendous problem of plastic waste around the world.
Olivia was inspired after reading an article published by the University of Chicago that presented findings from scientists who had invented a plastic that conducts heat like
a metal. “It was groundbreaking,” says Olivia. “Plastics don’t typically conduct heat. How does this work? The question motivated me to create my own plastic that acts in this way.”
With the support of Ms. Musolino, Olivia dove into research, driven by a love of science and a passion for environmental study. She placed collection bins in the student dining room to gather banana peels and began toiling early mornings in the science lab and during her free periods. This year, Olivia’s hard work paid off when she was awarded third place in the Environmental Science category at the Connecticut STEM Fair.
“The Science Research program at Sacred Heart is a phenomenal opportunity,” says Olivia. “It has allowed me to pursue my love of engineering and environmental studies and incorporate these interests into an individual and personalized project. I am incredibly passionate about my project as I was able to research, design, and develop a project I am truly proud and inspired to continue in the future.”
After a rigorous application and interview process, Science Research student Ella Erhlich ’24 was admitted into the Regeneron High School Mentorship Program. This competitive program matches
students with scientists at Regeneron, a biotech company specializing in the development of medicine for serious diseases. Ella will be working with Dr. Kehan Bao in the department of Metabolic and Muscle Diseases. Alongside Dr. Bao, Ella will spend six weeks this summer conducting her own research in genetics at Regeneron laboratories. Ella’s work originated in her Science Research class with a project titled, “Studying the Inhibition of Genetic Proteins
in C. elegans to Reduce the Occurrence of Obesity.” In her Regeneron application, Ella wrote, “My dream is to be a surgeon and participate in medical research…. Continuing my research at Regeneron will give me the opportunity to expand my knowledge on this topic and contribute to worldwide obesity studies.”
Jenny Di Capua ’23 was named a top 300 scholar in the prestigious Regeneron Science Talent Research Competition.
Formerly known as the Westinghouse Talent Search, this is the nation’s oldest and most prestigious mathematics and science competition. Jenny designed “Salud Por Todos,” an app that helps people in the Latino community access quality health care. Jenny’s inspiration for Salud Por Todos came when she saw her grandmother’s friends struggle to find health care options for immigrants.
“My dad’s an immigrant from South America, and when he came to the United States, he moved to New Rochelle, which has a large undocumented immigrant population,” Jenny explains. “Growing up and visiting my grandmother there, I became very close friends with tenants in my grandmother’s home and they would tell me about the struggles they had accessing health care. My idea really stemmed from the fact that I believe that health care is a fundamental right.”
Salud Por Todos alleviates some of the barriers that both documented and undocumented immigrants face when attempting to find health care, such as language, identification requirements, and payment models, through a database of physicians who work directly with this population. Jenny’s work is especially significant and innovative because no other central database for primary care providers currently exists in the United States.
Parents of Science Research students observe their daughters engaged in rigorous study and note the motivation, discipline, and ingenuity the program requires. Christine Di Capua P’23 says, “The Science Research program is distinct, and it’s really what a Sacred Heart Greenwich education is all about. The program is oriented around the Goals and Criteria; it cultivates a deep respect for intellectual values and promotes a social awareness which impels
to action. I think the beauty of the program also lies within Goal V, a personal growth in an atmosphere of wise freedom. It is really powerful for young girls to gain this exposure to STEM fields, to persist in their study for three or four years, to interface with professionals… most people won’t do these things until their college or postgraduate years. To do this in high school is so empowering.”
Mrs. Di Capua also notes how in addition to building a deep understanding in their field
of research, students acquire an important set of lifelong skills that will serve them well beyond Sacred Heart. “The program truly fosters a sense of curiosity and desire for innovation,” she says. “I also think it teaches so much about perseverance and resilience. Students perform a literature review, find a mentor, compete in science fairs, and learn presentation and written communication skills. These are really significant things to learn! Along the way, they encounter obstacles, and the girls develop the personal backbone to face these challenges and come out stronger on the other side. It’s an enormous opportunity.”
“ The Science Research program is distinct, and it’s really what a Sacred Heart Greenwich education is all about. The program is oriented around the Goals and Criteria; it cultivates a deep respect for intellectual values and promotes a social awareness which impels to action.”
—ChristineDi Capua P’23 Jenny Di Capua ’23 with her parents
Gold Key
Olivia Figueiredo ’27 - Personal Essay and Memoir
Giovanna Gazal ’23 - Painting
Catherine Ruf ’24 - Photography
Silver Key
Helena Amano ’27 - Mixed Media
Ellenor Breitenbach ’24 - Poetry
Hazel Carrion ’25 - Poetry
Genevieve Caruso ’23 - Drawing and Illustration
Lila Caruso ’25 - Film and Animation
Arianna Chin ’26 - Short Story
Jhonni Dixon ’23 - Film and Animation
Clare Junius ’26 - Poetry
Julia Pujadas ’24 - Poetry
Emily Shull ’25 - Short Story
Gabrielle Wheeler ’23 - Critical Essay
Honorable Mention
Jhonni Dixon ’23 - Writing Portfolio
Dua Khan ’26 - Poetry
Claire Maher ’24 - Poetry
Ana Patricio ’24 - Poetry
Emma Robredo ’24 - Poetry
Catherine Ruf ’24 - Poetry
Samantha Sawhney ’24 - Poetry
Emily Shull ’25 - Poetry
Brianna Timlin ’26 - Personal Essay and Memoir
Vanessa Torres ’23 - Drawing and Illustration
Gabrielle Wheeler ’25 - Poetry
What first strikes most visitors to the campus of Sacred Heart Greenwich is the sheer space: rolling lawns, thickets of mature trees, and a view straight to Long Island Sound. Even seasoned guests continue to be impressed by the magnitude and meticulous care given to our beautiful property. Yet in recent years the grounds have evolved to become more than a stunning backdrop to an education. The Criteria of Goal III calls all members of the school community to accept accountability for the care of God’s creation. Charged with this mandate, the Sustainability Committee, a dedicated group of 10 faculty, staff, and students, sprang into high gear with plans and programs focused on stewardship of our school’s resources.
In November 2022, the committee’s tremendous efforts were honored by Audubon International with the prestigious and highly selective designation of “Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary,” an award that publicly recognizes and rewards environmental achievement and leadership.
“The project all started with a conversation that I had with Pam Hayes,” says Wil Smyers P ’33, grounds manager and member of the Sustainability Committee. “She was telling me stories about her time as a student at the school, when there was an orchard on campus and then a farm. Pursuing an Audubon Certification is something that I had long wanted to do here.”
Ellyn Stewart, director of Media Studies, Design, and Innovation and a member of the Sustainability Committee, adds, “The efforts started with the buildings and maintenance team, but expanded to include students, alumnae, and faculty. There is a real passion and curiosity for this work across constituencies.”
The road to certification is rigorous. To qualify, Audubon examines five areas of an institution’s operations: outreach and education, resource management, water quality and conservation, and wildlife and habitat management. An arduous application process culminates with a site visit, when a final determination is made. After their evaluation, Audubon concluded that Sacred Heart Greenwich not only met, but exceeded
qualifying criteria in each of the five categories. It’s highly unique for a school to achieve certification. In fact, Sacred Heart Greenwich is among only seven certified institutions in Connecticut and the only school in the state to hold the Cooperative Sanctuary designation.
Sacred Heart Greenwich was already meeting much of the Audubon’s selection criteria; however, there were areas requiring improvement. So, the Sustainability Committee got right to work implementing the missing pieces. Interestingly, the need to enact safety protocols to address COVID-19 risks may have actually contributed to the Audubon process.
According to Margaret Vondermeden, Mustard Seeds teacher and a committee member says, “Believe it or not, the COVID pandemic helped our efforts. Facilities needed to transition to become touchless. Water fountains turned into bottle-filling stations. We needed to bring children outdoors for teaching and learning, and COVID was the impetus for the Mustard Seeds program. The pandemic really brought awareness to the importance of using our outdoor space.” Mustard Seeds, led by Miss Vondermeden, is an outdoor education class where students may be found planting tulips, quietly observing a redtailed hawk, or surveying the campus’s evergreens. Improvements to campus included the planting of more native trees, shrubs, and perennials, the creation of a pollinator garden, the removal of invasive plants, and the cultivation of a meadow and more natural areas. Meanwhile, indoors, improvements also abounded. The school installed efficient toilets and sinks, upgraded their wastewater treatment plan, and built an enhanced drainage network. Now all parking lots and turf fields drain into specially designed collection and filtration units or rain gardens to protect nearby wetlands from runoff. LED lighting was installed throughout the buildings, along with more efficient HVAC systems and automatic light sensors. Composting also started in the fall of 2020. During their lunch periods, students wearing fun fruit and vegetable costumes serve as “Compost Captains,” to encourage their classmates to compost food
waste. So far, composting is off to a great start. Wil Smyers and his exceptional team made additional composting receptacles in the garden. Food from the dining hall travels to these receptacles and becomes the super nutritious soil that we use to grow our plants and vegetables.
The pursuit of the Audubon certification shaped much more than just our buildings and grounds. As excitement grew for conservation and environmental study, curriculum responded to match this curiosity and commitment, and the physical campus became more thoroughly integrated into teaching and learning.
Within the Lower School, several distinctive programs emerged. The goal of Mustard Seeds is to cultivate within our youngest students a sense of wonder and admiration for the natural world, equip them with knowledge about the surrounding plants, animals, and seasons, and inspire a lifelong love for the outdoors. Through active, physical work, Mustard Seeds also supports an unexpected curriculum. By pushing beyond their comfort zones, children build resilience, gain
confidence in themselves and their place in the outdoors, and through the constant cultivation of their five senses, sharpen the skills of awareness, attention, observation, and critical thinking.
Lower Schoolers are also budding ornithologists. This year each grade level launched an in-depth study of a different bird, so by the time students finish Lower School, each student has an expert understanding of five different birds. In addition, a rich, hands-on science curriculum, led by science teacherMarion Kieltyka, explores monarch butterflies in second grade and studies ecosystems and food chains in fourth grade.
In the Middle School, the garden is an ideal outdoor classroom. Fifth graders visit regularly for the study of botany in their science classes. In the spring, students prepare garden beds, plant seeds, and care for their crops. On their return to school in the following September, these same students, now sixth graders, discover a full garden in bloom. The harvested food is donated to Meals on Main Street, in Port Chester, New York.
This year our campus was also “abuzz” with the exciting addition of bee boxes. The beekeeping program runs throughout all divisions, raising awareness about the role pollinators play in the environment and encouraging students to look at the School’s lawns and native plants in new ways. In Lower School, students explore the importance of beekeeping to ancient civilizations, while building pollinator hotels, painting bee boxes, and creating honey labels. In Middle School, girls study the life cycle of our campus bees during their botany unit. Mrs. Vondermeden, who coordinates the beekeeping program, says, “It has been a joy to bring our students down to the beehives, bringing the bees a frame of honey on a warm day, watching them bringing in early pollen, learning about their fascinating colony behavior and learning to not be afraid of them but to know our bees in a gentle and natural way.”
This summer a greenhouse was built on campus, and it has been used by students in every division for research, study, and
discovery. Upper School Science Research students used the Greenhouse to participate in the “Plant Mars Challenge,” a nationwide competition that challenges students to grow crops in a mixture of substances that mimics the soil on the planet Mars. Charlotte Gannon ’23, Isabella Leao ’23, Katie May ’23, and Robin Murphy ’23, hypothesized that enhancing the Martian soil with a superabsorbent polymer might best enable crop successful production, and they discovered that radishes thrive best in this unique soil compound! This experiment won Best Experimental Design in the High School Division (see story on p. 12)
“This work started very humbly,” says Mr. Smyers. “We were just trying to be better. And now — how many schools have a greenhouse?”
And one doesn’t need to be outdoors to experience the power of the natural world. The Upper School AP course, Ecocriticism, uses the study of literature to explore the role of nature in our lives. Through discussion and close reading and analysis of diverse texts from Gilgamesh to Beloved , students deepen their understanding of stewardship and ethical responsibility.
Ellyn Stewart notes, “It is exciting to see how the sustainability efforts at Sacred Heart Greenwich have grown organically into daily life from Lower School to Upper School. Whether it is collaborating with the Audubon, creating
workshops for the Earth Day celebration, or launching a composting program, students, faculty, and staff are coming together to make a difference in our world.”
Nature provides a place to cultivate a sense of wonder and curiosity in our students. It is
“Receiving the Audubon certification is validation that Sacred Heart Greenwich students, faculty, and staff are committed to environmental initiatives in tangible ways. Students were surprised to see that practical changes that the school made during the pandemic such as self-flushing toilets and auto light sensors were considered by the Audubon as positive changes the school has made to support sustainability.”
amazing to see a student light up at the sight of a newly identified bird or laugh with delight at watching the bees at our new hive do the waggle dance. Receiving the Audubon certification is validation that Sacred Heart Greenwich students, faculty, and staff are committed to environmental initiatives in tangible ways.”
To learn more about how the great outdoors shape teaching and learning on King Street, we encourage you to visit the Sacred Heart Greenwich Podcasts page of our website and listen to the episode, “Go Wild!”
Learn more about sustainability at Sacred Heart Greenwich
Goal V, Criterion 2: All members of the School community take personal responsibility for health and balance in their lives supported by a school culture that promotes spiritual, intellectual, physical, and social-emotional well-being.
Leadership and well-being have always been foundational to a Sacred Heart Greenwich education. Now for the first time, these touchstones have been formalized under the guidance of Jennifer Bensen, the new Associate Head of School for Student Life. Along with members of school psychologists, student deans, school nurses, and the Athletic Department, Ms. Bensen has shaped and enhanced the Leadership, Health & Wellness program to become an integrated K-12 curriculum involving special programming, coursework in health and fitness, spiritual development, and social justice initiatives. Below are program highlights.
Lower School: Compost Captains
Lower School students enthusiastically embraced their role as “Compost Captains” in Sacred Heart Greenwich’s newly expanded composting program that launched in January 2023 as a partnership among students, the Wellness program, Flik Dining Services, and the Sustainability Committee.
“Composting is smart for Sacred Heart Greenwich to do because it uses the leftover fruits and veggies from lunch and turns it into healthy soil for our garden. My friends and classmates do it because we know that it will make the environment better.”
—Adeline Lane ’31
Lower School students take their responsibility seriously to be good stewards of the earth as they educate their peers and guide them toward the correct receptacle to compost their food leftovers. Margaret Vondermeden, Mustard Seeds program teacher, says that the composting program “has helped our young community members learn how our food can also feed the beautiful vegetables, herbs, and flowers that students grow in our school garden. Students are so excited to experience firsthand the connection between sustainability and service, as they grow food using compost and then donate the new food to local community food pantries.”
When it comes to Middle School, the secret to success means tapping into the developmental norms of this age group. Sacred Heart Greenwich educators understand that students at this age love movement and novelty, and therefore, learning needs to take place in active ways across different venues. This year, Middle School students had the opportunity to learn Zumba, Pilates, yoga, and meditation from certified instructors. Other offerings have included guest speakers on topics such as nutrition and drug prevention. “The yoga and meditation classes help me to relax and focus on new ways to be calm during the busy school days. It is enjoyable to try something new,” says Whitney Rousseau ’27.
In September, the Upper School launched the Sacred Heart Greenwich Leadership Academy, a program designed to teach essential leadership skills through workshops, mentor meetings, group activities, and expert speakers. Each participant in the program is encouraged to understand and develop her own style of leadership.
Annie Slocum ’26, one of 98 Upper School students in the Leadership Academy, appreciates the program’s understanding that every individual needs to cultivate her own unique way to lead and that leadership looks different among different people. Annie says, “I’ve discovered so much about my personal leadership style. I learned that being a good leader does not always mean being the most vocal person on your team or in the classroom. It is about finding the leadership style that fits you best. I’ve also learned skills in conflict resolution, communication, and public speaking that help me every day to become the best leader I can be.”
Members of the Academy are already applying their skills to real life. For Laura O’Connor ’23, the Leadership Academy provided a pathway to understanding the dynamics between different individuals. “As captain of the swim team, I aspired to create an environment where all student-athletes felt comfortable, while still holding each other to a high standard,” says Laura. “Partnering with my fellow captain, I needed to learn the ways in which we work best together, as our strengths differed. The Leadership Academy allowed us to assess our skills to create strategies to best lead, so that we were able to support each other and build strong team camaraderie.”
Learn, Play, Pray: Forging Sisterhood through the Middle School Advisory Program
Middle school can be a challenging time for students and parents who are navigating increasing academic, extracurricular, and social demands. Ask most adults to reflect on their middle school experience…and the answers may not be pretty! However, Sacred Heart Greenwich is determined to make the middle school experience positive, memorable, and transformative.
Sacred Heart Greenwich Middle School has shaped an environment where students are encouraged to take risks, pursue their passions, and foster curiosity about oneself and the world around her. Educators in the Middle School understand that their students feel confident to explore and learn only when they are supported by nurturing adults and empowered by positive peer relationships. Shepherding this individual transformation is the Advisory Program, an enduring Sacred Heart Greenwich tradition seeking to make the bigger world of middle school just a little smaller.
Starting in fifth grade, students are organized into small groups. Led by a Middle School faculty or staff member, these groups spend the academic year together, meeting twice per cycle for community building, goal setting, and service work. Magee King ’93, Director of Admission Communications & Marketing, and eighth grade advisor, shared, “Of the many hats I wear at Sacred Heart Greenwich, I’ve always considered my role as an advisor to be one of the most rewarding. I truly believe, in the words of Madeleine Sophie Barat, we are building passion and purpose
amongst these students, which is something that will benefit them throughout their lives. My daily interactions with my advisees also keep me connected to the student experience, which, in turn, enhances my role in the admission office and enriches my purpose as a Sacred Heart Greenwich educator.”
Advisory time offers unique activities that punctuate a busy academic day with the vital downtime and social connections that middle schoolers crave. Advisories sit with one another during Chapel, pray and reflect in small group meetings, and engage in service work, such as making Christmas cards for children at Memorial Sloan Kettering. Students are also encouraged to bring their own ideas for advisory and given leadership roles within their small groups. In January, Charley Caffray ’27 taught knitting. Over the holidays, advisory groups built gingerbread houses together and tested them for durability. Fifth and sixth graders decorated their classroom doors for Halloween and competed for the spookiest, most creative designs. Recently, seventh and eighth graders honed problem-solving skills in the “Marshmallow Game,” an engineering challenge using sticks of raw spaghetti and marshmallows. Studies show that providing students with these opportunities improves confidence and academic performance. Barrett Hausmann ’28 shared, “Doing fun activities and talking with friends gives us a break. It helps us to calm down and relax so we can focus better in class.”
When students spend time together in structured, supportive cohorts, positive outcomes abound, and notably, students form tight bonds with individual faculty members. Advisors become more than just a friendly face in the hallway, these teachers are mentors, cheerleaders, and confidants to their advisees. “It’s a privilege to be an advocate for each of my advisees and support her personal growth throughout the year,” writes Mrs. King. “Perhaps most importantly, we become our own little “family” within the Middle School each year and we have a lot of fun (and snacks!)”
Juliette Firla, eighth grade English teacher and advisor, says, “Advisory allows for a greater sense of vulnerability with the students. Whether we are talking about the difficulties we face with body image and self-esteem, or setting goals for a new school year, students see advisory as a safe space to share their truth. We are able to create a small community, aligning with Goal IV, in which students really feel as if they belong.”
Advisory reinforces the promise that Sacred Heart Greenwich makes to each student that they will be seen and loved. In their “small communities” students get to know one another and themselves, they have fun, they talk, and they play. Behind each of these experiences is practice in the larger life skills of cooperation, conversation, collaboration, and problem solving that are at the heart of the exciting, transformational journey of our Middle Schoolers.
Each year, through service and study, Sacred Heart Greenwich students test their wise freedom by venturing beyond the walls of King Street to live the school’s mission across the United States and around the world. Through their engagement with new communities, students grow in courage and confidence as they build cultural awareness, develop resilience, and discover new abilities. The ARISE program and the Network Exchange are two examples of how our students use travel to live out the Goals and Criteria.
Last year, eight students and one alumna participated in the Border Witness program, a service learning trip led by Upper School World Language teacher and Network Exchange Coordinator Montserrat Garcia, and Upper School math teacher Michael Maida. The group traveled to San Juan, Texas, a remote location on the Mexican border, to partner with ARISE Adelante, a community-based program that supports immigrant families in the Rio Grande Valley. ARISE Adelante is co-sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy and The Sister of Charity of the Incarnate Word. During their seven-day trip, Sacred Heart Greenwich students assisted in a summer program for children, creating crafts, playing sports, and reading stories.
“The ARISE trip was truly life changing for both the student and adult participants,” says Mr. Maida. “Being immersed in the immigrant community was an important aspect of our journey. It gave the students a chance to see what life is really like for the people of the Rio Grande Valley, their struggles, and their many accomplishments.
In the afternoons, students participated in the Border Witness Program, which is designed to raise awareness about the realities of living in the Rio Grande Valley. With Border Witness, students attended presentations with aid workers to learn more about the immigrant experience. They met with immigrants at the Humanitarian Respite Center to hear stories of people’s journeys from Haiti, Chile, Brazil, and Mexico. Each day, students sent updates to the Sacred Heart
Greenwich community back home. Caterina Pye ’23 and Gabriela Pye ’23 wrote, “What really struck us was the positive attitude that the children showed despite their difficult lives. Some children had moved up to ten times in their 12 years of life and continued to show positivity and good attitudes. Reading about the immigration process had only a small impact on our knowledge compared to the firsthand account we experienced.”
The trip included a visit to La Posada Providencia, a shelter founded by the Sisters of the Divine Providence, where students listened to the needs of immigrants seeking asylum. They also had time to absorb the border’s culture through new foods and music, browsing shops, and spending time with local families, including Teresa and Julio, who invited the group to lunch at their home. Teresa and Julio crossed the border with a determination to give their children the opportunity for a safer, better life in America. After years of work cleaning houses, selling home-made food, and picking cilantro in the fields, Teresa and Julio were ultimately able to purchase their first home.
“It is difficult to express how enlightening it was to converse with Teresa: her ceaseless smiles, patience, unwavering faith, and warmheartedness inspired us to become more socially aware, empathic, and pious global citizens,” wrote Anita Lopez del Punta ’23 and Elsa Latrille ’23. “It is by hearing accounts like Teresa’s that we are even more called, as we finish Upper School and begin to consider career paths, to continue promoting change and justice for the immigrant community.”
In addition to service learning trips, Sacred Heart Greenwich students engage with the wider world through the Network Exchange program, which connects the 150 Sacred Heart schools across the world. For over 40 years, the Network Exchange has been a signature experience of a Sacred Heart education and best demonstrates the benefit of belonging to an international network
of schools. The program is reciprocal — Sacred Heart Greenwich girls who participate also host a student from a sister school. All students live with host families while attending classes at the host’s own Sacred Heart school. These repeat experiences deepen the relationship between students, who are connected by shared traditions and the Goals and Criteria. “The exchange is a unique miracle,” says Sra. Garcia. “Just being in the Sacred Heart network is enough of a connection for the program to really work.”
Annie Cornell ’23 participated in the Exchange program during her sophomore year, traveling to Seville, Spain, to attend classes and live with her host, Lenore, and Lenore’s family. Lenore and Annie became fast friends, and their Exchange did not stop after Lenore next visited the Cornell family and experienced Sacred Heart Greenwich. Annie and Lenore have continued to travel between Seville and Connecticut during the summers. “I truly consider her a sister,” says Annie. “Participating in the Network Exchange program has truly been a highlight of my time at Sacred Heart. What I find really unique about the exchange program is that you can travel to a new place, where they might speak another language or celebrate a different culture, and yet still remain rooted in the Sacred Heart Goals and Criteria! Regardless of where you go in the
world, you’ll discover the same defining aspects of a Sacred Heart education, whether this be something as foundational as Pauline’s portrait of Mater or as playful as Congé.”
In the Upper School this year, 31 sophomores participated in three- to four-week exchanges, traveling around the world from Rome to Taiwan. For many students, a Network exchange in Spain, Peru, or France, offers a full immersion to enrich their foreign language skills. “To immerse yourself in another culture, and in many cases, in another language, it is very transformative,” says Sra. Garcia. “It is a firsthand learning experience that gives students the opportunity to become more knowledgeable about the world and about how the Sacred Heart mission is lived around the world. Students become open minded, practice empathy, and gain confidence while practicing their wise freedom.”
In the Middle School, seven eighth graders participated on exchange, traveling to Academy of the Sacred Heart in New Orleans, Convert
& Stuart Hall in San Francisco, Sacred Heart Sheridan Road in Chicago, Stuart Country Day in Princeton, and Sacred Heart Halifax. Jillian Wolf, Middle School librarian and director of Library Services, coordinates the Network Exchange for the Middle School. She shares, “I think we’re most thrilled that our students have an opportunity to connect with the wider Sacred Heart Network, see how the Goals and Criteria are lived out in other areas of the country and in other communities, and recognize the shared experience that all Sacred Heart students have.”
The Global Mindset
Service learning trips and the Network Exchange program are powerful tools that inspire students’ intellectual curiosity, nourish a love for learning, and plant the seeds of a global mindset. In an interdependent world, Sacred Heart Greenwich recognizes the vitality of these lessons in the formation of young women into transformative leaders.
Service learning trips and the Network Exchange program are powerful tools that inspire students’ intellectual curiosity, nourish a love for learning, and plant the seeds of a global mindset.
This year, 22 Sacred Heart Greenwich students spent their spring break off the beaten path, exploring Morocco on a weeklong journey delving into the country’s culture and history. Amid extraordinary experiences, new friendships, and astonishing sights, students’ travel into unfamiliar places reaffirmed the universality and enduring relevance of the Goals and Criteria.
Led by Souad Malih P’23, Upper School Arabic and French teacher; Michael Maida H’17, Upper School math teacher; and Upper School World Language Teacher, Marie Hubert, students crisscrossed the country and kept the King Street community updated with journal posts describing each day’s adventures. A strong theme emerged from each post: the generous hospitality of the Moroccan people and the enthusiasm and pride with which Moroccans shared their culture.
The first stop was the Hassan Mosque II, the largest operating mosque in Africa. Inside its walls, students observed a blend of Islamic architecture and Moroccan influence in the distinctive archways, columns, mosaics, and intricate tilework. “We were all in awe of this mosque’s magnificence,” wrote Lily Broughton ’26 and Julia Stiker ’25. Throughout their trip, and especially while visiting holy places, students stayed cognizant of the Goals and Criteria, especially Goal I, Criteria 4, which states, The school community welcomes and respects persons of all faiths and educates to an understanding of the religions and spiritual traditions of the world.
After exploring Rabat, the capital, the group continued to Salé, a small town where students visited Yacout, a predominantly female-run cosmetic cooperative. The
cooperative is all about women helping women, and it was founded to support those unable to pursue the education necessary for skilled jobs. At Yacout, these women are taught a trade and then able to support their families.
Sacred Heart Greenwich students were welcomed for a product demonstration and explored the facility to understand how each product is created. Students also learned about the management and administration of the business, and while Yacout’s president explained these processes in French, Upper Schoolers Caroline Clark ’24 and Julia Stiker ’25 translated for the group!
For many of the participants, the highlight was visiting a local school in the city of Midelt, where students recognized the power of Goal IV, the building of community as a Christian value. During their visit,
Sacred Heart Greenwich girls learned about the Moroccan school system, met Moroccan students, and even competed in a basketball game. Before the game, the school thoughtfully played both the American and Moroccan national anthems.
“This visit helped us to recognize the commonalities we share as human beings, even though our cultures are very different,” wrote Mary Marlatt ’25 and Isabella Salerno ’25. “Visiting their school grew our understanding of the world, and through these new perspectives, we became more compassionate, respectful, and informed.”
The final stop of this whirlwind journey was Merzouga, a small village perched on the edge of the Sahara. Here students discovered 27 camels waiting to transport them across the desert. And while this mode of transport was nerve-wracking for a few,
these intrepid students climbed right up. For their courage and confidence, the group was rewarded with a stunning sunset over the sands and a starlit ride home. “This experience was all about Goal IV,” wrote Daphne Fallon ’25 and Casey Smith ’26. “We experienced the environment in a way none of us had before. We are thankful for
this moment and we will use it to empower our lives back home.”
Opportunities for travel builds students’ cultural awareness and shapes a global mindset that encourages individuals to see themselves as part of a larger, interconnected world where they are called to share their transformative gifts.
The varsity volleyball team had a special and memorable season. They started with a second-place finish in the preseason Labor Day “Nectar” Tournament, competing against eight public and three other Connecticut private schools. The team finished in second place in the FAA (9–1) and ended up as the FAA championship runner-up in a 2–3 loss in the FAA final. The team finished eighth out of 22 Class A schools in the NEPSAC and in the postseason played the #1 seed to a 2–3 match in the quarter finals. This team played with heart, finishing 16–7 overall and throughout the journey had the support of fans, faculty, friends, and family cheering in the stands, never losing a single match on our beautiful home court.
The JVA volleyball team had a great season. They fought hard each game, finishing with a 9-6 record and winning the FAA tournament. They went to five sets with almost every team, continuing to grow in each game.
The JVB volleyball team displayed incredible hustle and determination, finishing with a 7–9 record. The season was capped with an outstanding 3–2 win against Greenwich Academy
that showcased the skills the girls developed throughout the season.
The Varsity A team had an exciting season. The team had to replace two top Division I talented senior captains from the fall ’21 team, one in the midfield and the other on offense. After rebuilding the lineup, the team earned first place in the FAA regular season. Unfortunately, the team fell short in the FAA postseason tournament final with a late 0–1 game loss at home. Overall, field hockey ranked third in the Class A Western New England District 4 Division. The team earned a sixth-place seed in the Class A New England Postseason Tournament. This season we graduated the largest number of players, many of whom will be playing college field hockey next year. We are excited to build our program with our youngest talent next fall.
Under the tutelage of veteran Coach Abdel El-Kettani, the Varsity B field hockey team had another successful season. With an overall winning record of 7–1, the team scored an impressive 37 goals while registering only 6 goals against. The team recorded a first-place finish in the FAA post season tournament which highlights the program’s continued success. While
FAA First Team All-League
Maggie Finn ’25
Ava Lillis ’24
All-NEPSAC
Ava Lillis ’24
All-NEPSAC
Delfina Gonzalez Lobo ’23
Katherine Nemec ’23
Honorable Mention All-NEPSAC
Ines Araujo ‘23
Charlotte Nemec ‘25
FAA 1st Team All-League
Ines Araujo ’23
Olivia Caponiti ’23
Genevieve Caruso ’23
Delfina Gonzalez-Lobo ’23
Kate Nemec ’23
FAA 2nd Team All-League
Charlotte Nemec ’25
Southern New England
All-Region
Delfina Gonzalez-Lobo ’23
FAA Honorable Mention
Emma Marvin ’24
Soccer
FAA 2nd Team All-League
Arianna Chin ’26
Giada Coviello ’24
WWNEPSA All-Star
Giada Coviello ’24
Ashley O’Meara ’24
FAA Honorable Mention
Karina Sethi ’23
FAA 1st Team All- League
Emilia Bernal ’24
Grace Gapen ’25
FAA 2nd Team All-League
Martina Bernal ’23
FAA Honorable Mention
Kaitlin Robinson ’24
All-NEPSAC
Emilia Bernal ’24
Grace Gapen ’25
the team graduates a strong base of talented senior athletes, there are many promising JV players coming along.
JV field hockey had an incredible season finishing with seven wins, two losses, and four ties. The team participated in the FAA JV tournament held at Sacred Heart Greenwich, finishing in third place overall.
This year we found just how deep the pool of talented soccer players is at Sacred Heart Greenwich. It was our first season with three Upper School soccer teams and each team produced their own impressive season. The Varsity A team competed against top teams in New England and in the FAA. The team finished with an overall record of 7-7-4. The
FAA championship bid fell just short in the semifinals to St. Luke’s. There were many highlights this season and a tremendous amount to build on heading into next year.
The Varsity B soccer team had an outstanding season with an overall record of 8–0. They scored a total of 44 goals and only conceded 2 goals. A season highlight was having our senior captain, Emma Neary, score a hat trick in the senior day game against Hackley.
JV soccer started the season with big aspirations. The 13-player squad, made up of freshmen, sophomores, and juniors, did very well, finishing with a 5-2-4 record. The team was characterized by its strong work ethic and determination!
The varsity cross-country team had a strong FAA season, finishing 6–3, while earning fourth place in the FAA championships. The team had two runners place in the top 10, earning themselves All-Team FAA recognition. Following the FAA’s, we traveled to St. Mark’s School to compete in the New England Championships where we placed eighth out of 18 teams.
Rowing enjoyed an exciting season filled with lots of progress, learning moments, laughs, and most importantly, heart-felt, competitive racing. The team raced in three regattas and in the most prestigious Head of the Charles regatta. All rowers had a fantastic time in Boston and gained some really positive experiences.
The varsity basketball team had another great season! The team finished with a 13–9 record and a great showing in postseason play. The also had their second player in SHG history score 1,000 points! Congratulations to Payton Sfreddo ’24! With only one senior leaving, the team looks forward to another great season for 2023–2024.
JV basketball had the second undefeated season in all SHG history! They played great
together and were able to win the FAA tournament!
Our FAA champions! The swim and dive teams finished with record times and some of the best performances in all SHG history. Finishing with an undefeated season, the team is very excited for next season!
Squash
Under our new coach, Robert McDavid, we had a great season with terrific finishes at
New Englands and Nationals! The team looks forward to advancing further next year! Our JVA and JVB teams improved exponentially, and we are excited for them to elevate into varsity athletes next year!
After the second-ever SHG ice hockey season, we cannot wait for more! Under a new coaching staff led by Chris Mhyro, the girls were able to improve their playing tremendously and had so much fun!
FAA 2nd Team All-League
Payton Sfreddo ’24
FAA Honorable Mention
Madison Hart ’24
Western New England All-Star
Madison Hart ’24
Payton Sfreddo ’24
Eva Wilkerson ’25
Diving
FAA Honorable Mention
Emma Beatty ’26
Squash
FAA All-League
Daphne Fallon ’25
Sophia Morales ’23
Madeline Schwarz ’23
Sabrina Schwarz ’23
FAA Honorable Mention
Caitlin Buford ’27
All-NEPSAC
Daphne Fallon ’25
Sabrina Schwarz ’23
NEPSAC Honorable Mention
Gabi El-Masry ’23
Madeline Schwarz ’23
Swimming
All American
Alexandra Bastone ’23
FAA All-League
Alexandra Bastone ’23
Jane Cary ’24
Lauren McCauley ’26
Victoria Mordaunt ’25
Julia Pujadas ’24
Emma Robredo ’24
Irene Robredo ’25
NEPSAC Robertson Award
Alexandra Bastone ’23
Seventeen members of the Class of 2023 intend to pursue their athletic careers after they depart King Street.
Ines Araujo: Lafayette Field Hockey
Alexandra Bastone: Harvard Swimming
Corbin Callaway: Bucknell Lacrosse
Mackenzie Coleman: Elon Lacrosse
Olivia Caponiti: Princeton Field Hockey
Genevieve Caruso: Amherst Field Hockey
Olivia Caruso: Northeastern Rowing
Claudia El-Masry: Bates Squash
Delfina Gonzalez Lobo: Columbia Field Hockey
Kelly Haggerty: Fairfield Lacrosse
Isabella Leao: Northeastern Rowing
Kate Nemec: Stanford Field Hockey
Laura O’Connor: Yale Lacrosse
Madeline Schwarz: Middlebury Squash
Sabrina Schwarz: Middlebury Squash
Karina Sethi: UVM Lacrosse
Maggie Sullivan: Colgate Lacrosse
The varsity tennis team was thrilled to get back on the courts this spring! Players trained locally over spring break, working diligently to sharpen skills and bond as a team. Their hard work paid off with their early season success! Led by the senior leadership of captains Isobel Costello ’23 and Catherine Dodman ’23, and new senior players Sabrina Schwarz ’23, Madeline Schwarz ’23, and Zara Black ’23, the team got off to a 5-0 start. They faced ups and down in tough FAA competition, but never lost their spirit and drive. Many younger players enjoyed larger roles on the team, such as Moira Marangi ’25 and Michaela White ’26, who both jumped to play singles for the first time and won several fierce matches. The second doubles team of Frankie Marangi ’24 and Ellie Furman ’26 enjoyed a 9-2 season, and Sabrina Schwarz, Madeline Schwarz, and Emma Langer ’25 joined to play with one
FAA All-League
Emmy Marlatt ’25
Isabella Salerno ’25
FAA Honorable Mention
Lindsay Benza ’23
NEPSAC All-League
Isabella Salerno ’25
FAA All-League
Zara Black ’23
Catherine Dodman ’23
Sabrina Schwarz ’23
FAA Honorable Mention
Emma Langer ’25
another in various combinations to be 13-0 in the regular season. While the team lost some key players to graduation, they are excited to return eight players for the 2024 season.
JV tennis started the season at an even keel with two wins and two losses. However, after implementing more drills of doubles court positioning, they began to attack more at net. The team finished their season with a record of six wins and three losses. Congratulations, JV tennis!
Varsity golf had a strong season with many personal and team bests. The team were fortunate to practice at Tamarack Country Club and took advantage of great weather this year. In their FAA league, the team finished third overall. At the Carolyn Dym/
FAA tournament, Isabella Salerno ’25 earned first place. In addition, Isabella Salerno and Emmy Marlatt ’25 received FAA All League and Lindsay Benza ’23 received FAA Honorable Mention. In their NEPSAC tournament, the team scored in 4th place overall. Isabella Salerno came in 8th and received All NEPSAC. A special mention goes to Emmy Marlatt, who has not lost one match throughout her freshman and sophomore years!
This season the JV golf team demonstrated visible growth and bonded as a supportive, positive community! Throughout their five matches, the team worked hard to build skills in driving, chipping, and putting. The team looks forward to summer practice and returning next year to an even more successful season!
All-NEPSAC Honorable Mention
Sabrina Schwarz ’23
Track and Field
FAA All-League
Tiffany Abrahams ’25
Grace Gapen ’25
Victoria Hart ’24
Juliette Pelham ’26
Nova Ramseur-Moore ’24
Laurie Starke ’26
FAA Honorable Mention
Lla David ’24
Track All-NEPSAC
Grace Gapen ’25 Discus, Shot Put
Victoria Hart ’24 100m Hurdles
Laurie Starke ’26 Triple Jump
All-NEPSAC Honorable Mention
4x100 meter Relay
Tiffany Abrahams ’25
Victoria Hart ’24
Nova Ramseur-Moore ’24
Laurie Starke ’26
Lacrosse
All-American
Laura O’Connor ’23
Kelly Haggerty ’23
Academic All-American
Payton Sfreddo ’24
Olivia Leahy ’24
All-NEPSAC
Charley Bacigalupo ’23
Kelly Haggerty ’23
Laura O’Connor ’23
Payton Sfreddo ’23
NEPSAC Honorable Mention
Maggie Bacigalupo ‘24
Olivia Leahy ’24
Ava Lillis ’24
Kaitlin Robinson ’24
WNEPSWLA All-Star 2023
Karina Sethi ’23
Maggie Sullivan ’23
The Upper School track season was a tremendous success, as the team finished as the runner-up at the FAA championships and placed seventh overall at the New England Championships. Six athletes achieved All League Honors and five athletes were named All New England. Congratulations to Victoria Hart ’24, Grace Gapen ’25, and Laurie Starke ’26. These athletes broke a combined seven school records across the hurdles, shot put, discus, long jump, and triple jump events.
The Varsity A lacrosse team had an incredible season, finishing with a 16-1 record! They were also ranked #1 in NEPSAC Class A and and #9 in the nation by USA Lacrosse. The team was 23 girls strong and highlights of the season included big wins over Oak Knoll, Hotchkiss, Taft, Exeter, and Greenwich Academy. This year, the team graduates seven seniors, all of
whom will play collegiate athletics: Corbin Callaway (captain, Bucknell lacrosse); Liv Caponiti (Princeton field hockey); Mackenzie Coleman (Elon lacrosse); Kelly Haggerty (captain, Fairfield lacrosse); Laura O’Connor (Yale lacrosse); Karina Sethi (Vermont lacrosse); and Maggie Sullivan (Colgate lacrosse).
Varsity B had a terrific season finishing with eight wins, three losses, and one tie. With so much talent spread across the roster, the team was able to compete at a high level playing against top varsity programs. They will surely enjoy a lot of future success in their lacrosse seasons to come!
JV
JV lacrosse wrapped up a great season with a record of six wins and three losses. The team played with talent and dedication, and every athlete improved their lacrosse skills.
Against their most competitive match-up, vs. Greenwich Academy, JV lacrosse came out with the win, posting an exciting score of 7-6!
Sacred Heart Greenwich rowing has had one of their best seasons to date! With two strong eight-man boats, the girls competed in four races, placing so well that they qualified for NEIRAs championships. The rowers raced against tough competition and felt proud to see their hard work pay off!
It is exciting to see the water polo team growing! For several players, this season was their first opportunity to play the game, and they improved tremendously! Seasoned players kept the team competitive in all games. The team looks forward to continuing to build skills together and find more success in future seasons!
After a nine-month process, Sacred Heart Greenwich unveiled its new strategic plan, Pursuing Excellence. This plan envisions the future for Sacred Heart Greenwich and shapes our strategy for the next five years. The planning process focused deeply on the School’s values, which are reflected in all aspects of this strategic framework. Our foundress, Saint Madeleine Sophie Barat, reminds us:
“What is the good of teaching various subjects, of wasting time in learning them, if, at the same time, we cannot teach children the words of life and touch their hearts and their consciences?”
Sacred Heart Greenwich is called to meet this challenge head-on and to continue to provide an exceptional education and experience for our students and for generations of students to come.
The School is grateful for the participation of our community in the fall 2023 Strategic Design Survey. The feedback was helpful in ascertaining both what we must protect and where we can make progress and reaffirmed the hallmarks of a
Sacred Heart Greenwich education: faith-based education, academic excellence, community, and an all-girls learning environment. Building on the Goals and Criteria that are the foundation for educational excellence at Sacred Heart Greenwich, these values provide a thoughtful and reflective lens for all we do, and we took care in this process to articulate these values to describe who we are as a School and what we envision for our graduates.
Sacred Heart Greenwich, an all-girls, independent, Catholic school, educates and empowers students to pursue excellence, build courage and confidence, and lead lives of purpose and integrity.
Sacred Heart Greenwich envisions a world where all girls and women are able to shape the future through learning and service as defined by our Goals and Criteria. We transform the world, one girl at a time.
Informed by our community’s extensive feedback, Pursuing Excellence is focused on pillars, ADVANCE, ENGAGE, and INVEST, as detailed below:
ADVANCE aims to enhance the quality of education and leadership formation at Sacred Heart Greenwich. This includes aligning the curriculum and pedagogy to ensure ongoing relevance and cohesion between divisions and integrating service learning and cocurricular opportunities. The School will also reinforce standards of teaching excellence, design support mechanisms for student development, and commit to inclusive practices to promote equity in learning for every student. Additionally, the plan aims to articulate student outcomes and philosophy of learning, develop unique assessments, and commit to innovative practices.
ENGAGE aims to cultivate meaningful relationships with community members and the wider world for learning, service, and
leadership. It commits to inclusivity and belonging, attracting a broad community of students, families, faculty, and staff, and fostering experiences that promote belonging for all. It creates structures of feedback to assess climate and culture, builds community alliances beyond campus, and partners with alumnae and families to build an ecosystem for learning. It also cultivates and strengthens relationships between and across Sacred Heart Network schools to expand opportunities for learning, growth, service, and cultural immersion experiences.
INVEST aims to allocate resources effectively to support Sacred Heart Greenwich’s mission and vision; to foster a diverse and dynamic student community and recruit, support, and develop talented educators; and to design innovative programs and versatile campus spaces that support the focus on leadership skills, spiritual formation, and intellectual development. In addition, our investment aims to cultivate a lifelong commitment to the Sacred Heart Greenwich mission, align financial resources to support the vision, and advance investment through engagement, development, and enrollment strategies.
Over the coming months, Sacred Heart Greenwich will engage a Strategic Plan Implementation Committee to develop a plan for prioritizing and operationalizing the ADVANCE, ENGAGE, and INVEST pillars into actionable items. This is an exciting time at Sacred Heart Greenwich and we are confident that together we will be Pursuing Excellence for generations to come.
Our deep gratitude to Sacred Heart Greenwich’s amazing Gala volunteers and engaged supporters. Close to 400 guests honored the Key to the Heart theme of the May 6 Green & White Gala by spectacularly uniting and raising over $500,000 for our Endowment and for our Leadership, Health & Wellness program to unlock the potential for students and for our community. The spirited celebration included dinner by celebrity chef Geoffrey Zakarian, dancing to the Pete Saunders Band, a performance by singing painter Joe Everson, a silent auction, and spirited
bidding on unique experiences and items. We are blessed by the partnership and generosity of the volunteer committee and community members who shared their expertise and underwrote and donated the food, decor, and auction items.
On June 9, Sacred Heart Greenwich celebrated its 174th commencement. Seventy-four students graduated as the Class of 2023, and their remarkable accomplishments and distinguished honors were recognized through speech, song, and the distribution of awards. Katherine May and Nadia Borja were this year’s respective valedictorian and salutatorian, and both delivered heartfelt reflections that inspired their classmates and highlighted the special bonds their class shares. Angela Hwang P’20 served as commencement speaker. Mrs. Hwang, the mother of Alexa Choy ’20, is chief commercial officer and president of the global Biopharmaceuticals business at Pfizer.
Thank you to Angela Hwang P’20, Commencement speaker for the Class of 2023. Mrs. Hwang’s message about finding one’s purpose, following curiosity, leading with confidence, and remembering to look for joy inspired the entire community. We know our graduates will carry Mrs. Hwang’s words with them as they take their next steps and light the world before them with the mission of the Sacred Heart. Excerpts of Mrs. Hwang’s speech follow.
“A huge congratulations to the Class of 2023. You did it, and you did it YOUR WAY! The unique blend of personality, style, and talent that you’ve brought to Sacred Heart Greenwich has left an imprint that will last for years.
Today, I want to share a bit of my journey. I want to share how I found my purpose — in the hope that it helps you along the way … to finding yours.
I grew up during apartheid in South Africa. As far back as I can remember, society told me what I couldn’t do. I couldn’t go to public school. I couldn’t use public transit. I couldn’t live in certain neighborhoods. I couldn’t even go to college without the government’s permission.
Despite all that, I had a wonderful upbringing. My parents showed me that we didn’t need to accept no for an answer. We got creative. We found workarounds. And thanks to their resourcefulness, I grew up knowing I could do anything I wanted to do.
There was only one problem: I had no idea what that was.
I did know, at least, that I loved science. So, I pursued a degree in microbiology and biochemistry at the University of Cape Town.
After college, I worked as a research microbiologist at a brewery. That was totally happenstance: I’d gone to a career event with a friend. I got offered a job. Working at a brewery sounded like
a dream job for a 21-year-old, so I did what I thought I was supposed to do: I took it.
But I shouldn’t have.
I was successful at the job, but I hated it. And after years of being unhappy and unsure, I turned to a time-tested solution: grad school.
So, I left South Africa and went to Cornell to pursue my MBA. To no one’s surprise but my own, that didn’t solve the problem overnight.
Then a lightbulb went off.
I began to see that health care could unite my past and future: science and business. So, following business school, I took a job at a health care consulting firm, which led me to Pfizer a few years later.
The truth is your purpose is rarely illuminated in a single lightbulb moment. For most of us, it’s more like a series of lightbulbs over time, showing you the way forward. It becomes clearer and clearer along the way … if you look for it.
During my early years at Pfizer, I worked on many medicines for many diseases. And in the beginning, my work was just a job. I was doing product marketing; it was good enough.
Over time, I realized that I was not only good at the job, but I was also enjoying it. I enjoyed solving complex problems to grow my businesses.
Then, one day, another lightbulb went off.
I was helping lead a focus group for an Alzheimer’s medicine, talking to patient advocacy
groups and caregivers about the need for better treatments for this devastating disease. It dawned on me: our medicines don’t just help patients, but their families and loved ones, too. The better I do my job, the greater the number of people who would benefit.
That set off yet another lightbulb: Wait a minute … I cannot do this on my own.
If I am going to really impact the lives of millions of people all over the world, I need teams of colleagues to work alongside me; I need to be an exceptional leader. That became even more important when I started to work with massive teams that spanned continents and time zones. I worked hard to be the most inspiring leader I could be. I focused on leadership founded in a clear mission, but executed every day with energy, authenticity, and empathy.
Then, in 2017, my father was diagnosed with prostate cancer. Cue my next lightbulb. My work was no longer professional; it was now personal.
So, you see, it was in dozens of moments over the course of my career that I found my purpose: to create breakthroughs in health care and to make our world more equitable. And what I know to be absolutely true is that when you find your purpose, it gives you superhuman powers and you can overcome anything in your path to achieving it.
Now, it took me two degrees and the better part of three decades to get there. So I’m not going to suggest that you’re going to get there overnight, or that it’ll be easy either. But that’s OK! And it’s actually a good thing if it takes you a while.
It’s a good thing if you hit an obstacle now and then. It’s a good thing if you sometimes have to reverse course, change your mind, try another direction. It’s not an aimless search because you will learn something from every experience — and you’ll never know unless you try.
Sacred Heart Greenwich has given you incredible tools that will help you find your
purpose. Let me mention three.
The first … curiosity.
Sacred Heart Greenwich has opened up a world of opportunities for you, from sports to community service to scientific pursuits to music and arts and so much more.
Continue to try new experiences. From each one, you’ll learn a little bit more about yourself. About what moves you and what doesn’t. And over time, you’ll find out what makes you excited to get out of bed in the morning.
Your second tool … joy.
Finding your purpose can be a roller coaster. Even after you think you have figured it out, things can still change. So, as you go
I could trust. A community who shared my family’s set of values.
So, take it from me, asking for help is not a sign of weakness. It is, indeed, a sign of strength.
Class of 2023, I just talked about the importance of confidence. Now, let me tell you why I, personally, am so confident in you.
I’ve seen the kind of leaders … the kind of intellects … that Sacred Heart Greenwich nurtures. I’ve seen how deeply this school believes in its five core values, how those values are taught and lived every day, and how they endure in the heart of every graduate.
Class of 2023, I have no idea what the next 12 years will bring for you.
through the highs and the lows, don’t forget about the things that bring you joy.
Dinner with your girlfriends. An episode of your favorite TV show, or binging the whole season. Long walks with Taylor Swift on your Air Pods. And — let me put a plug in for this — how about a phone call to your parents.
And your third tool, and maybe your most important one … confidence.
But remember this: Confidence isn’t just about knowing your worth. It’s also about knowing how to ask for help.
As a working mom, I never had enough time. I needed help. Sending Alexa to Sacred Heart Greenwich was my form of asking for help. I needed support from a community
But I do know this: you will all go on your unique journeys to find your purpose and you will not be bystanders along the way. Pay attention to your lightbulb moments and let them illuminate your path to finding your purpose and happiness.
No matter where you go or what you do, you are going to use what you learned here. You will bring your kindness, ambition, and intelligence to the communities you become part of and the communities you’ll lead someday.
And now as you begin in earnest the search for your purpose, please know that every single one of us is cheering you on.
Congratulations again, Class of 2023!”
“ Sacred Heart Greenwich has given you incredible tools that will help you find your purpose.
On October 12, Sacred Heart Greenwich hosted “Celebration of the Heart,” a spectacular event for parents, faculty, and staff to recognize our students and beloved school.
The evening began as President Michael F. Baber warmly welcomed new parents to his home for a reception. Afterward, more than 400 people gathered in the Athletic Center for the community dinner. Guests heard updates on the school’s robust financial health, signature programs, and outstanding student accomplishments. The program featured speakers Kathleen O’Connor ’89, chair of the Board of Trustees, and Mr. Baber. Throughout their remarks, a clear theme emerged: this is a great time to be a student at Sacred Heart Greenwich. Evening highlights also included performances by the Madrigals, Class of 2024 President, Jane Murphy and students providing a multilingual prayer, and “lifer” Olivia Caponiti ’23, Student Council president, speaking about the year’s theme, “Better Together.”
On December 4, Sacred Heart Greenwich gathered as a community for our annual Come Home for Christmas event! From Family Mass to brunch, to photos with Santa, to Holiday Vendor Boutique, to Santa’s Secret Shop for Children, to gingerbread house decorating, to the Holiday Bracelet Workshop, King Street was full of holiday spirit. Thank you to everyone who attended to make this special day so joyful!
Special thanks to Fathers’ League Chair Paul McKeown P ’25 ’28 for planning a fun Octoberfest. Dads came together for fellowship, bratwursts, and seasonal beers!
This annual tradition celebrated by the Lower School welcomes guests to a morning filled with musical performances in the de Csepel Theater and visits to the classroom. During the event, students have the opportunity to express their gratitude for their grandparents and friends who have made such a difference in their lives.
One of our most beloved traditions, this year’s Upper School and Middle School Father-Daughter Dances included a Pixar theme. To everyone’s delight, Upper School fathers performed their famous “Dadrigal” songs. With fun, friends, and family, these were certainly a night to remember.
In September, Sacred Heart Greenwich hosted a reception at Townhouse, in Greenwich, to recognize and thank leadership donors. The evening featured light bites, cocktails, and conversation. Annie Finn ’23, executive vice president of the Student Council, shared her enthusiasm for how the close-knit community uplifts one another. Board Vice Chair Lynne Newman P’17, ’21, ’26, President Michael F. Baber, and Director of Advancement Lauren Fredette applauded the meaningful impact of these philanthropic leaders, highlighting how their support of the Fund for Sacred Heart and Endowment expands students’ opportunities to find their voices, enact change, and lead boldly with a strong conscience.
Sacred Heart Greenwich recognizes mothers and daughters. Together we celebrated the Feast of our beloved Mater Admirabilis with liturgies in each division — and of course a goûter of pink frosted donuts, a favorite Sacred Heart tradition.
Members of the Class of 1962
Members of the Class of 1972
Members of the Class of 1982
Members of the Class of 2007
Members of the Class of 2012
Members of the Class of 2017
Members of the Class of 1977
Members of the Class of 1992
Across diverse and rewarding professional fields, our alumnae are transforming the world through their commitment to the Goals and Criteria. Here we profile three graduates to understand how they draw upon the knowledge and skills they gained at Sacred Heart Greenwich to be exceptional in their careers.
Tara Hammonds ’14 graduated valedictorian and attended Cornell University, focusing on international affairs and world languages. She received her bachelor of science in International Agriculture and Rural Development, with minors in French and animal science. Ms. Hammonds continued her studies at Cornell with a Master of Professional Studies in Global Development. Today, she lives and works in Gaza as the Program Manager for Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) for Catholic Relief Services (CRS). In her work, Ms. Hammonds helps teams understand the nature and severity of the region’s needs, designs programming to address the issues, monitors the efficacy of programs, and implements learning so teams can improve. In Gaza, CRS programs provide cash and voucher assistance under emergency conditions, livelihood support through shortterm job placements and small enterprise development, shelter repair and rehabilitation, and psycho-social support for adolescents and caregivers.
“CRS had been on my radar since I was a child,” she says from her home in Gaza. “I remember my church participated in their Lenten rice bowl campaign. Later, it struck me how CRS puts the person and their story at the forefront of what they do. They have a “person-first” approach to fundraising and programming, and this pulled me to them. They have a strong emphasis on dignity.”
The nature of Ms. Hammonds’ work is often complex, and on a daily basis she is called to solve problems with creativity and sensitivity. “When I think about the classes that had a formative impact on me, it’s Mrs. Bader’s ethics class and Doc Mott’s senior seminar. These classes developed my social awareness. They helped me to think critically about the big issues and challenges in the world and have the courage and creativity to imagine solutions. Senior seminar really helped me to think as a global citizen and to reflect on my role within the global community.”
Kerry Bader, director of Mission Integration and Upper School theology teacher, remembers Ms. Hammonds in her ethics class as a student who thought deeply about the problems existing in the world and tried to find solutions. “Tara rolls up her sleeves and gets to work. She sees all things through an important lens of faith,” says Mrs. Bader. “Tara believes deeply in the inherent value of all human beings and fights to right injustices that are committed against those who are most vulnerable.”
Ms. Hammonds also credits French teacher Dr. Marcia W. Josephson H’21 and her French classes for inspiring her curiosity about new cultures. “Dr. Josephson had a big impact.’ she says. “She structured her classes around learning the language and the culture. It molded my way of thinking. Now whenever I go to a new place, I learn a little bit of the local language. It helps me to understand how people are living and how to best serve them.”
“ When I think about the classes that had a formative impact on me, it’s Mrs. Bader’s ethics class and Doc Mott’s senior seminar. These classes developed my social awareness. They helped me to think critically about the big issues and challenges in the world and have the courage and creativity to imagine solutions.”
“One piece that was important about Sacred Heart Greenwich is how they recognized that I was capable of doing more and they allowed me to advance. I took a lot of science classes with students in the year ahead of me. It was great to be in classes that were so intellectually challenging. I found mentors and they helped me to find opportunities outside school to follow my interests.”
Ms. Hammonds concludes, “Overall, when I think about how Sacred Heart Greenwich prepared me for this kind of career, first, it’s how to think critically. In this profession, you can be really successful if you know how to do this. The other is an appetite for learning which turned me into a lifelong learner. This has been really important to my career. I go into everything with the idea that I certainly don’t know it all, but I’m excited to learn.”
Donna Pacicca ’83 is very familiar with being first. After graduation, she earned her bachelor of arts in biochemistry from Columbia University as a member of the university’s first coed class. While there, Dr. Pacicca was one of the founding members of Columbia’s first Division I women’s soccer team, a role she knew well because she had also started Sacred Heart Greenwich’s first soccer team. Now she practices pediatric orthopedic surgery and stands out again as a woman orthopedic surgeon in a field typically populated with men.
Dr. Pacicca’s clinical interests include pediatric and adolescent sports medicine, fracture, and reconstruction. “This work is about fixing people,” she says, “It’s about restoring function and getting people back to doing what they want to do.” For Dr. Pacicca, this means everything from operating on babies with clubfoot and hip dysplasia to adolescents with scoliosis, and working with many patients who suffer from ACL tears, knee gap dislocations, and fractures.
“I’m a scientist at heart,” she says. “It’s fascinating to look at patients and find the science behind what’s going on. I investigate why people’s bodies are doing what they’re doing. At one point, I was seeing a few kids who spontaneously developed loose cartilage in their joints. I began research into their DNA and my investigation actually revealed a DNA abnormality. We were able to put a name to something. It’s really very cool to perform this investigation piece.”
Only seven percent of all orthopedic surgeons are women. But Dr. Pacicca is looking to change this and is active in her mentorship of women orthopedic surgeons. She volunteers in an outreach program through the Orthopedic Research Society, where at each year’s annual meeting, they host an “Open Door” event, reaching out to students in middle and high schools with an interest in medicine and orthopedics. Students are invited to see the surgeons in action. “This gets young people excited about the work,” says Dr. Pacicca. “They see us practicing and think, I could be a surgeon. But sometimes you need to see it to be it.”
Dr. Pacicca’s commitment to mentorship and outreach aligns with the Goals and Criteria’s emphasis on service and social awareness. According to Dr. Pacicca, while at Sacred Heart Greenwich, community service was an important component of her experience, inspiring her to continue volunteerism at Columbia through the Big Brothers and Big Sisters program.
Dr. Pacicca also credits Sacred Heart Greenwich with supporting her passion for science and encouraging her to stretch her abilities to their fullest potential. “One piece that was important was how they recognized that I was capable of doing more and they allowed me to advance. I took a lot of science classes with students in the year ahead of me. It was great to be in classes that were so intellectually challenging. I found mentors and they helped me to find opportunities outside school to follow my interests. During sophomore year I was accepted into the Columbia Science Honors program. I wouldn’t have known about this program if it weren’t for my teachers who encouraged me to go for it. I’m so thankful to my science teachers Mr. Timko and Mrs. Thormann for their support and encouragement.”
Dr. Pacicca also remembers Ms. Pomex, her art teacher. “She was an unbelievably encouraging person. I am not an artist, but I was good at calligraphy because it is precision work. In Ms. Pomex’s class, the ability to think creatively was really encouraged. She taught me that there is more than one way to think about things.”
Kathleen “Kat” Spillane ’11 was a huge fan of The Ringer, a sports and culture website and content studio that produces a variety of podcasts, videos, and reported pieces about sports, entertainment, and media. When she landed a job working as their talent booker, it felt like a dream come true. It was also the culmination of hard work and dedication that began back when she was a student in Ellyn Stewart’s Broadcast Journalism class. “Sacred Heart Greenwich was the launch pad for my career,” shared Kat. “It’s where I learned to be a team player and how to collaborate with others. My education emphasized speaking up and sharing my opinions, while also being confident enough to listen. I think fondly back to all of my English, history, and broadcast classes. That’s where I discovered a passion for reading, writing, and storytelling.”
Mrs. Stewart, director of Media Studies, Design, & Innovation, remembers Ms. Spillane as being a stellar student, who shone academically, and stood out for her kindness, creativity, empathy, and talent for building relationships. “When Kat spoke to Broadcast students in 2017, I remember students being in awe of her. Always humble, she inspired our young filmmakers. It’s rewarding to hear how our alumna’s foundational experience in Filmmaking & Media Studies ignited future success.”
Ms. Spillane started her career in the competitive NBCUniversal Page Program, where she had rotations at Saturday Night Live, Late Night with Seth Meyers, NBC’s Entertainment Publicity Group, and CNBC’s Mad Money with Jim Cramer. She considers the Page Program an invaluable crash course in entertainment and media, and launched her into roles on Late Night with Seth Meyer. First as an assistant, and then as a coordinator of their guest interview department, Ms. Spillane supported three supervising producers. She conducted research on guests, liaised with publicists and managers, and organized all the elements that go into creating an interview segment. Following her work on Late Night with Seth Meyers, Ms. Spillane worked at the startup Literati, managing their talent partnerships with athletes, entertainers, and writers. All of these experiences paved the way for her role at The Ringer, which Ms. Spillane believes blends her passion for creating compelling interview content with audio, written, and video production.
While her work has been challenging, Ms. Spillane always felt prepared. She believes one element behind her success was the influence of an all-girls education and the ways that Sacred Heart Greenwich created a safe space for girls to find their voices at a young age, to build confidence in their skills, and find conviction in their leadership.
“Sacred Heart Greenwich was such a special experience that helped me to enter the world as an open-minded, independent woman,” she says. “To never be afraid to speak up, think critically, and enter a situation with empathy — Sacred Heart Greenwich instilled those values in me, and I will be forever grateful.”
“ Sacred Heart Greenwich was such a special experience that helped me to enter the world as an open-minded, independent woman. To never be afraid to speak up, think critically, and enter a situation with empathy.”
On October 14, Bea Dizon ’09, Dr. Donna Pacicca ’83, Claire Squire ’16, and Kara Hartigan Whelan ’94 joined Upper School Students at Career Morning by participating in conversations filled with advice, stories, and question and answer sessions moderated by Siobhan Hammer Dolce ’92
Alumnae gathered in the Barat Center for the annual Alumnae Halloween playdate! Children dressed up in Halloween costumes and decorated pumpkins.
College-age alumnae gathered January 4 for the annual networking lunch with seniors. Panelists Annabelle Hartch ’21, Lauren Mirando ’21, Kate Hong ’22, Amelia Sheehan ’20, and Morgan Smith ’20, answered questions from the students about their college experience.
Parents of college-age alumnae care package stuffing in February.
We gratefully recognize these forward-thinking, philanthropic leaders whose generosity benefits future generations of Sacred Heart Greenwich students who will be educated and empowered to pursue excellence, build courage and confidence, and lead lives of purpose and integrity.
Named for Mary Aloysia Hardey, RSCJ, the founder of Convent of the Sacred Heart Greenwich, this society honors donors who leave a legacy to the School through planned gifts.
Anonymous (10)
Mr. and Mrs. James D. Alban-Davies
Ms. Judith S. Becker H’10
Mr. and Mrs. John B. Burke (Delia Mannix ’59)
Ms. Alice G. Burlinson ’73
Mrs. Sheila H. Cameron (Sheila Hickey ’62)
Mr. John Casaly and Ms. Louise M. Parent ’68
Mr. and Mrs. Richard W. Conrad
Mrs. Virginia B. Coudert ’48
Mr. and Mrs. Patrick J. Creegan II (Patreece Williams ’84)
Ms. Judith de Brazay
Mr. John de Csepel† and Mrs. Lenore de Csepel
Mr. and Mrs. Edwin T. Dibble (Rozanne Herbert ’51)
Mr. and Mrs. Charles F. DiGiovanna
Mr. John P. Duffy and Mrs. Anne Duffy† (Anne Kinney ’59)
Sr. Jean Thomas Dwyer, DC ’54
Mr. Joseph A. Fanone and Ms. Joyce J. Gorman ’70
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Guennewig (Victoria Brosokas ’68)
Dr. Charlotte Hagan
Mr. and Mrs. John P. Heffernan (June Dolce ’59)
Mr. and Mrs. Christopher C. Hooper (Kristina Sekor ’88)
The Estate of Mrs. Patricia C. Kolbe† (Patricia Lamborn ’44)
The Estate of Dr. Mary T. Koleski† (Mary Martin ’46)
Ms. Claire LaBrunerie
Mrs. Jill A. Levine (Jill Pellett ’82)
Mr. and Mrs. John E. Lynch
The Estate of Ann T. Mara†
The Estate of Josefina Monserate†
Mr. and Mrs. Timothy H. Murphy (Mandy Dawson ’85)
Mr. John J. O’Connell, Jr.
Mr. Michael A. Pavese
Dr. and Mrs. Charles A. Rogers
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas M. Steinthal (Nicole Russo ’88)
Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Taverna
Ms. Elizabeth H. White ’67
This is the Aloysia Hardey Society member list at the time of publication. Should you find any discrepancies, please accept our heartfelt apology and notify the Advancement Office at 203.532.3176 or advancementteam@cshct.org so we may correct our records.
By including Sacred Heart Greenwich in your estate plans, you can ensure that the school you know and love remains vibrant for future generations.
› Bequests
› Charitable remainder or lead trusts
› Rolling over an IRA (for those 70½ and older)
› Beneficiaries of retirement fund
› Beneficiaries of Donor Advised Fund
“My education helped to form who I am today and prepared me well for college, law school, and a life of public service. My faith, my education, and my sense of self were all strengthened during the formative years of high school. I still cherish friendships from those days and look forward to reconnecting with classmates at reunions. Giving back was always a part of my life plan. To remember Sacred Heart in my will seems like a natural thing to do.”
—Ms. Alice G. Burlinson ’73, Hardey Society MemberTo join the Society, simply inform Director of Advancement Lauren Fredette in writing that you have named Sacred Heart Greenwich as a beneficiary in your financial or estate plans. For more information, please contact Lauren Fredette at 203.532.3160 or fredettel@cshct.org.
Judy Ollinger Depontes welcomed her 20th great-grandchild in December, a boy born to the family of her youngest son! With spring around the corner, she is making plans for her gardens. She prays all are well.
Margi Brown Gregory is still living in Sewickley, Pennsylvania, a small town west of Pittsburgh. She has 14 grandchildren ranging from 10 years old to early 30s, as well as three great-grandchildren. She reminds each of them that they are beloved children of God with a God-given purpose. She is part of The Bible in a Year with Fr. Mike Schmitz, and she enjoys learning. She is also reliving memories with freshman year roommates, Sr. Kathy Dolan and Dede Hochschwender Shannon!
Thank you to Ann Lind BowersMatthews for submitting an update on behalf of her classmates.
Allie Lou Richardson continues to live on a farm in East Texas and is working with American Heritage Girls, a Christian scouting program. She is also an administrative assistant to the pastor of the town’s small church. Her oldest daughter lives on their farm nearby. She also has two daughters who live in Vermont and a son who lives in Tucson. There are eight grandchildren and she is praying for some great-grandchildren to come along soon!
Lynn Rhatigan Callagy reports that she had a reunion with Sheila McAnaney Kostanecki in Florida last year. Sheila looks great and enjoys having two sisters nearby in Florida. Lynn and her family are happily getting together again after many cancellations due to COVID.
Susanne Assheton van Vechten lost her sister suddenly two years ago, and sadly her husband died last October after 57 years of marriage. She lives in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, in a wonderful and supportive community, which has helped to sustain her.
Michelle McQueeny Matthews is in Naples, Florida, where she has spent her winters for many years. She is planning a trip to Mallorca, Spain, to attend her grandson’s wedding. Taylor is the oldest of 12 grandchildren. Mickey moved to Weekapaug, Rhode Island, 23 years ago. She is playing lots of bridge and is busy keeping up with her grandchildren and their various sports activities.
Ann Thomason Oatway lives in the same Vero Beach, Florida, area as Sheila Kostanecki, so they see a lot of each other. Ann is in good health and plays bridge and golf. Ann has four children, 15 grandchildren, and a greatgrandchild, with two more on the way! She was thrilled when one of her sons recently bought the house in Vermont that she and Bud had owned for many years and sold when they moved to Florida permanently.
Ann Lind Bowers-Matthews continues to live in Far Hills, New Jersey, and makes frequent trips to New York for her interior design business. She has four healthy and happy children and eight amazing grandchildren. Everyone comes
to Far Hills from far and wide for family Christmas each year and she is truly blessed to enjoy many joyful moments through the year with such a caring and beautiful family.
Thank you to Pam Wall Madden for submitting an update on behalf of her classmates.
The Class of 1962 celebrated their 60th Reunion on Oct 15. Sheila Hickey Cameron was given the much-deserved Outstanding Alumna Award and hosted a catered dinner and sleepover after the event. Chris Norris Diskint has now moved to Wexford, New York, where she shares a home with her daughter’s family. Sandy Steinthal Powell departed on Sunday for a two-week trip to Europe with her husband and another couple. Pat Meyer has returned to work per diem three days a week. There have been many life changes for the Class of 1962 over the past year and Pam wishes everyone stay well and close.
Kathleen Sanford Fentress and her husband, David, were happy to be able to take two trips in the fall, to Italy and France. She was able to spend time in Utah this winter with her grandchildren and some cousins. While everyone was skiing, she spent time swimming and doing yoga at the local health club. With friends, she formed a Giving Circle through the States Project this past year and raised money for statewide offices in Pennsylvania. Outside of being deeply involved in a quintessential small-town political struggle, she joined a garden club and looks forward to her upcoming joint replacements so she can get back to skiing! She hopes to see everyone at the 60th in just a few short years.
Joan Dowling Todd has two granddaughters who attend Sacred Heart. Mia is in Grade 5 and Sadie is in Grade 3. Their mother, Amanda Todd Lynch, attended Sacred Heart, as well. The girls love it!
1967
Libby White moved to Holland, Michigan, in 2021. She is working four days per week as a substitute teacher in the Holland Public School system and is loving it. Her family has a summer cottage in Douglas on Lake Michigan and Libby plays golf in a women’s league there. She is enjoying her life in the Great Midwest.
Cathy Egan Cronin and her husband, Bill, are pleased to report the birth of their eighth grandchild, Henry Francis Cronin, on June 16, 2022. Cathy and Bill are residents of Vero Beach, Florida, and spend most of their time between Vero and their farm in Falls Village, Connecticut, with their family and friends. They’re loving this chapter of their lives.
Lynne McGowan Wheat, Shelaghmichael Condon Brown, Natica del Valle von Althann, Louise Parent, and Adele O’Grady Botticelli celebrated
their birthdays together in November 2022.
Peggy O’Neal Shepard is happy to report that her six grandchildren (Berkeley Brooks, Keeley Brooks, Lulu Shepard, Olivia Brooks, Rhys Brooks, and Isla Shepard) are all thriving.
Anne E. McCormick is designing a line of fabrics and wallpaper. Her online “anniemccormick” shop at www.spoonflower.com displays a handful of designs with multiple color combinations, with more patterns to come. Anne also enjoys traveling with her husband.
Alice Burlinson is enjoying her second year serving on the Alumnae Board and is thrilled that Rosemary Custer Glazier joined
her on the board. The Class of 1973 is well-represented. Alice retired last year from the Virginia Attorney General’s office after representing the Division of Child Support of the Virginia Department of Social Services for more than 28 years. She surprised herself by going back to work in January part time for her client agency to work on a federal grant to assist families with visitation and parenting issues. She also stays busy with travel and several volunteer gigs in Roanoke, Virginia. She is excited that this will be the class’s 50th reunion in the fall and encourages all classmates to come if they can, she would love to see everyone and catch up!
Missy MacKenzie Cumings has been working at and running the family business, MacKenzie Painting, for almost 40 years. She was named the 2022 Outstanding Woman in Construction by the Connecticut chapter of the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC). She has two grandsons, Julian, 3, who lives in Colorado, and Parker, 9 months, who lives in Milford, Connecticut.
Mike and Missy are still working and living in Shelton, planning to retire soon. Their two boys and their families are in Colorado and their two girls and their families live in Connecticut.
Kathy Williams Dunn writes that over the past three summers, she and Kent traveled in their RV and visited 19 national parks. Each park was unique and made each visit special! Their trips also included visiting with family in Kansas, California, Idaho, and Colorado. She is still working at Sacred Heart 46 years later! Currently she is the Assistant Head of Lower School and the Lower School Technology Coordinator.
Debbie Busby Kunces has been working for Informa for 23 years in the trade show industry. Her portfolio is the waste, recycling, and sustainability industries. She also serves on the board of the Women’s Council of the National Waste & Recycling Industry (NWRA). She is traveling and enjoying this dynamic and growing business.
Susan Mara McDonnell has been a very successful real estate broker for over 30 years in Westchester Country and has been recognized among “Best Real Estate Agents” by Westchester Magazine. She was recently selected as the exclusive Elite Sports Network real estate advisor to represent Westchester
County. In addition, Susan is the proud grandmother to four boys!
Caroline Riley is recently happily retired in the Long Island wine country after moving out of NYC. She spends her time volunteering and enjoying suburban life!!
Leslie Teichgraeber is retired from PepsiCo and enjoying her home in Rhode Island as well as spending time with her daughter Charlotte and grandchildren in Maryland.
1974
Joanna Groden, Eileen Steller Holtvedt, Mary Kay Campo Cobb, Barbara Barsa Jamison,
Kim Griffin Reynolds, Katie Kenyon Kelley, and Cathleen Sullivan Stack had a mini reunion in Watch Hill, Rhode Island, at the end of September 2022.
Barbara Barsa Jamison is an artist (www.Barbara JamisonPaintings.com) and also plays competitive golf croquet. She is now living in Cashiers, North Carolina, with her husband, Jim.
Joanna Groden still lives in Cincinnati, Ohio, with her husband, Stace Dahl, and her two sons are living and working nearby. Joanna continues her scientific career as the vice chancellor for research at the University of Illinois Chicago, overseeing all research in the
16 colleges of the only public university in Chicago.
Cathleen Sullivan Stack is a member of the GreenwichMaplehurst Alumnae Board and the chief marketing officer for the Hudson Gateway Association of Realtors in White Plains, New York. Her two sons are married and living in Brooklyn. She lives in Darien, Connecticut, with her husband, Chris. They have two granddaughters.
Mary Kay Campo Cobb lives in Darien with her husband, Chet. She retired from teaching nursery school at St. Thomas More. Her daughters live in Darien, Denver, and New York City. They have four grandchildren.
Eileen Steller Holtvedt lives in Bend, Oregon, with her husband, Andy. All three of her children went to Sacred Heart in Atherton. She looks forward to planning upcoming weddings for her daughter and son. Her daughters are living in Bend and her son is living in Tacoma.
Katie Kenyon Kelley splits her time between Vermont and Florida. She and her husband, Rick, have been married for 33 years, and they have two sons and a daughter.
Kim Griffin Reynolds and her husband, Rich have been living in South Bend for the past nine years.
Thank you to Josie Kaufmann for submitting the following update on behalf of her classmates.
In memory of Lucy Jaffrey who we suddenly lost this year: The world will miss you, Lucy, and your loving nature with all the lives you’ve touched. You made a difference, by your incredible ability to see joy, compassion, and happiness even in the worst of times. I’ll miss some of your crazy theories and our discussions on life, that at times were polar opposites, yet we still remained loving friends and respected our differences without judgment. I hear your laugh and your adopted Maine
accent, with memories of a lifetime spent together. You will never be far from me, Lucy, because you live in my heart. —
Candy Miele VerrilliJosie Kaufmann is still living on good ole Cape Cod and enjoying life. She is looking forward to retiring this year. Dennis retired in January, so he is playing golf while Josie works! They are excited about the many places to see and things to do and encourage any classmates to reach out if they are in Cape Cod! It is almost time to start thinking about the Class of 75’s 50th reunion, Josie will be in touch about planning!
Nancy Oakes retired in September 2022 after 42 years at the Federal Reserve. She is looking forward to relaxing, throwing out the alarm clock, and planning trips both overseas and in the U.S. She is also working on her genealogy, with the hope of retracing her ancestors’ footsteps.
Patsy Benziger Wallace is loving life in Sonoma with Tim, and now her daughter Carly lives in town
as well. Carly got married in their backyard last May and bought a fixer-upper soon after that is five minutes from their house. She and her husband, Jake, have an adorable puppy. Patsy’s oldest son is married, just had a baby boy named Leo, her first grandchild, and they live in Brooklyn. Patsy thinks that being a grandparent is the best! Her youngest son is studying for his doctorate in physical therapy at the U. of Utah, which happens to be only 40 minutes from world-class ski resorts so he’s a happy snowboarder. Patsy is retired and feels very lucky about that. Her husband is not but has more flexible time and can travel a bit more. She is going back to New York more often these days so will hopefully run into some classmates soon!
Priscilla Jennings Pultz has been happily married for 35 years. Neil and Priscilla became grandparents for the first time with Olivia Grace Mammele, daughter of Mallory and Neil. All the Pultzs live in Charleston, South Carolina. Priscilla and Neil go back and forth from Clinton, Connecticut,
to Charleston. She continues to work at Acer Gardens in Deep River, Connecticut, and got a new right hip in April and is like a new woman!
Mary Lou Curran Kingsbery is still living in New Jersey and just celebrated 40 years of marriage to “Saint Clay.” She is currently serving on the GreenwichMaplehurst Alumnae Board and loves hearing all the great news from the Class of 1975!
Maureen Harris moved from Oregon to Minnesota when her daughter’s wife had their first baby girl, Ocean, in August 2021. It had been too long since she has been close to family, so it was time. Maureen has slowly been moving east so she may just end up all the way home one day... who knows? Maureen misses Lucy dearly and can’t picture a world without her. She sends love to all her girls at CSH!
Rosemary “Rosie” Barry is still living in Connecticut and had the
pleasure of seeing Meg O’Toole Gruppo and her husband, Jim over the summer, who recently joined their local yacht club.
Margaret Egan and Camilla Brooks have migrated to Massachusetts, trading “honking” in Brooklyn to “squawking” seagulls in New Bedford, Massachusetts. Their daughter Miranda is working and living in D.C., living a good happy life, like her mom’s. They encourage classmates to stop in whenever heading to the Cape.
Madalyn “Mary” Barbero Jordan recently retired from an eclectic career in musical performance, liturgical music ministry, arts administration, and teaching communication and mindful meditation at the university level. She is happily married to Emeritus Professor of Philosophy, Dr. Michael J. Jordan. The pair are proud parents of Liv who is completing a Master’s in Social Work at Hunter College. Mary is happily still in touch with some of
her Sacred Heart faves: Dude and Peeny!
Mary McGowan finally finished the 1890’s historic commercial building she was working on in Thomas, WV. A former booming international coal mining town under significant revitalization, Thomas was recently written up as one of the top 10 ski resort towns to visit even if you don’t ski, by Travel & Leisure Magazine. Mary encourages all to visit! Diane di Scipio Driscoll is now working with Mary as Global Head of Clinical Engagement. Alaska, while still a pup, has grown a lot, the pair take great walks and enjoy their time.
Muffin Ziminsky Dowdle is happy that her son, George D’Ambrosio, has joined her at Ginnel Real Estate and that he and his bride, Jessica, have moved to Bedford! Elizabeth Nevin is finally back in her beloved NYC after spending
most of the pandemic in Maine, where she sees a lot of Kate Jaffray Tapley. She also saw Dreux Dubin Claiden in June at an alumnae event! She hopes her classmates are doing well and thriving.
Debbie Heller Valdez and husband Edward welcomed grandson Colson Edward Valdez on August 24, 2022. He joins big sister Skylar Rose Valdez who is 3 years old. They are the children of Anthony and Marissa Valdez. Debbie and Edward’s son Nicolas Merritt Valdez married Victoria Pieciak on October 31, 2022.
Hope Houston Hirshorn’s daughter Emily was married on July 30 at Manhattanville College.
Barbara Farrell Smith and sister Catherine Farrell Kaplan ’92 lost their father James L. “Jim” Farrell, Jr. on January 20, 2023. His funeral was held at the Log Chapel at the University of Notre Dame on January 28, 2023. Pamela Esposito ’92, Katherine Shafer Coleman ’92, Adelaide Shafer Barrett ’91, and Siobhan Hammer Dolce ’92 attended the funeral and burial. It was a beautiful celebration of life, as well as a meaningful reunion of classmates. Candles were lit at the Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes.
Pam Esposito has served as chief business officer since the inception of Replimune. Pamela has held a variety of strategy, investor relations, commercial, and business development positions in small biotech companies over the past 20 years, playing lead roles in transformative deals for each company.
Danielle Cavanna Ogden is currently serving as interim director of Newport Art Museum; she has over 17 years of museum and academic experience. She is also on faculty in the Department of
Art History at Fairfield University, teaching Modern Art and the History, Theory, and Practice of Museums. She, her husband, and two young sons relocated to Rhode Island about three years ago during the pandemic and are excited to make Newport their permanent home.
Margaret Feeney welcomed her son, Christopher David Malloy, on April 3, 2022.
Margot Kearney Navins and her husband, Lee, welcomed Frances
“Franny” Creighton on July 28th. Casey and Claire are so proud of their big brother, big sister status!
Jennifer Einersen welcomed her daughter, Iris Marie Fernandez, on January 16, 2023. Big brother Henry adores his little sister!
Jen Aloisi Ham and her husband, Chris, welcomed their third child, Rocco, in February 2022. Older sisters Eloise (6) and Emme (3) loved showing him the ropes at one of their favorite fall activities — the Fall Festival at Sacred Heart.
Jane Chapman Lodge is the Greenwich-Maplehurt Alumnae Board secretary and is happy to report that she has returned to work after staying home with her daughter for the last 10 years! You can find her in the corporate office of PetVet in Westport.
Madeleine Sullivan Loehr, and her husband, Dave Loehr, welcomed Louise Sullivan Loehr on August 23, 2022, joining her big brother Kelly (3).
Olympia Kyriakides Thomson and husband Michael, along with big sisters Sybil and Byrdie, welcomed a baby girl, Philippa “Pippa” Sophia on November 21, 2022.
Leigh Colihan Czorniak and her husband, Pat, welcomed their first child, Annie Jane Czorniak, on July 20, 2022. Cousins Charlie and Gracie Scott, children of Katherine Colihan Scott ’06, are excited to welcome their new cousin!
Samantha Sebastian recently returned from a mission trip to
Guatemala where she showed the love of Jesus Christ to children in communities of great need through various service projects and spending time together.
Genevieve Irwin Goelet welcomed her son, Bobby Irwin Goelet, on February 24, 2022.
Millicent Green met up with Head of School Michael Baber at the Annual National Association of Independent Schools conference in February 2023.
Kyla Harrington Hilboldt recently launched Waveflow, a social gratitude journaling app. Waveflow takes advantage of the latest science around gratitude to make the practice fun and rewarding. You can check out the free Waveflow app in the Apple and Google Play stores and invite friends or family to practice with you to maximize the benefits from the practice.
Erin O’Callaghan Kennedy is excited to announce that her son, Peter M. Kennedy V, was born on December 29, 2021, and Erin is expecting another son in June 2023! Erin and her husband, Matthew, live in Rye, New York.
Susannah Lawrence celebrated her marriage to William Colding in October 2021. The two were married in a small ceremony in October 2020 but were able to gather family and friends in New York City a year later for a larger celebration at the Church of Our Saviour, followed by a reception at One if by Land. In attendance were Olivia Grubert ’09, Amy Traver ’08, Lindsey Festa ’09 (who was also in the bridal party), Alex Jung ’09, and Brittany Williams ’09
Angela Jorge is excited to announce that after two years of working on the show as the associate producer, Angela and her team at GBH in Boston premiered Work It Out Wombats! on PBS KIDS.
Jess Newman, Kate Larkin, and Mo Leitner ran the 2022 NYC Marathon together in November, cheered
on by many other Sacred Heart alumnae with “Go Heart Go” signs!
Kylinn Askew celebrated year two of her nonprofit, Criado Studios, by hosting an event in partnership with Lululemon that invited women across Georgia to gather in community and wellness. Kylinn is currently residing in Atlanta and with Criado Studios has a mission to provide accessible wellbeing and wellness opportunities to one million women by 2033.
Emily Hirshorn was married on July 30th to Andre Cote-Barch; the wedding was at Manhattanville College. After many happy memories of Sacred Heart Christmas concerts there, she thought it would be the perfect place to get married! An additional happy bonus is the stone Lady Chapel on campus which has an image of Mater where the bride thought it would be a beautiful spot to do
the first look and a way to honor Our Lady. Sisters Grace ’11 and Sarah ’13 were co-maids of honor, a tradition the three have carried through their weddings.
Kate Ruberti graduated in May 2022 from Elon University, in the top 1 percent of her class as summa cum laude, with a major in strategic communications and minors in marketing and professional sales. Kate is a first-year graduate student pursuing an M.S. in integrated marketing with a concentration in digital marketing at the New York University School of Professional Studies. In addition, Kate now works as an Assistant account executive at Prosek Partners — PRovoke Media’s 2021 corporate financial agency of the year — in digital finance. She drives digital and social initiatives such as advertising campaigns, content development, paid media
amplification, analytics and measurement, social listening, and community management.
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