OLSHighlights Fall 2013 by Our Lady of the Sacred Heart High School

Fall 2013

A Magazine for the Constituents of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart High School

Partners in Our Progress

Thoughts from the President

PRESIDENT Terry O'Rourke Donoghue DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS & CONSTITUENT RELATIONS Jessica Cerchiaro

he new school year at OLSH is off to a terrific start, marked by rich blessings in the form of a vibrant, healthy student body, cutting-edge technology in our classrooms, faculty and staff members dedicated to their professional pursuits and to OLSH, and greater visibility in our region – and beyond – as a Catholic, Felician Franciscan school of distinction. Without question, success of this magnitude did not occur serendipitously. Instead, it came about as the result of the Felician Sisters’ steadfast commitment to providing students in our region with a high school education like no other; ongoing investment in our facilities; maintenance of a welcoming, supportive, transformational culture and environment; and vision to create a new operational model that will sustain our growth and development for years to come. And in honor of this legacy, and based upon our abiding love and respect for the Sisters, we will forever remain committed to preserving our school’s mission and core values, ensuring the ongoing quality and currency of our programs, and safeguarding our traditions. Our ability to do all of this will be predicated upon the extent to which we successfully engage partners who believe in and will continue to support, nurture and serve as caretakers of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart High School. In this issue of OLSHighlights, you’ll read about a wide variety of significant partners who have made a difference to date, including impressive alumni; progressive and passionate organizations and academic institutions; active volunteers; and generous donors. On behalf of the OLSH community, I extend my gratitude to you -- for the blessing of your continued interest in and support of our school!

ALUMNI, SPECIAL EVENTS, AND ANNUAL GIVING MANAGER Jenna Zyroll '07 ADMINISTRATIVE AND ADVANCEMENT OPERATIONS MANAGER Linda Colbert

"Without question, success of this magnitude did not occur serendipitously. Instead, it came about as the result of the Felician Sisters’ steadfast commitment to providing students in our region with a high school education like no other..."

Sincerely,

Terry O’Rourke Donoghue President

OLSHChargers OLSHAlumni @OLSH_HighSchool

WRITERS & CONTRIBUTORS Katie Bartus Emily Duerr ‘14 Katelyn Gilroy Adam Griffith Fr. Frederick Gruber Sr. M. Francine Horos ‘68 Theresa Long ‘86 Shaughn McDonald ‘14 Santino Platt ‘15 Jessica Sellman ‘02 Deena Swank ‘92 Jenna Zyroll ‘07 DESIGNER Michael J. Cerchiaro ‘96 PHOTOGRAPHY Harry Giglio Productions OLSH Archives OLSH Family & Friends OLSH Yearbook Luke Travis '15 Catholic Heart Work Camp PRINTING Multi Print Media SPECIAL THANKS Felician Sisters OLSHighlights is published by the Advancement Office of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart High School and mailed free of charge to alumni, faculty, staff, students, families, and friends of OLSH. Contributions to Alumni News & Notes and address changes may be sent to: OLSH Advancement Office 1504 Woodcrest Avenue Coraopolis, PA 15108-3054 Phone: (412) 264-4082 Fax: (412) 264-4143 E-mail: alumni@olsh.org

Table of CONTENTS Fall 2013

www.olsh.org

FEATURES 2

Hats Off to the Class of 2013

Homecoming 2013

For Your Viewing Pleasure: New Technology Enhances Education

12 Youthtowne 15 Sharing the Mission:

OLSH Partners with Local Scholar

SPOTLIGHTS

IN EVERY ISSUE

Jessica Sellman '02 & Jenna Zyroll '07 Coming Home: Two Young Alums Return to Work at OLSH

Christine Serkoch '91 Proud to Be a Pirate

11 OLSH Advancement News

5 6

Programs OLSH Athletes Transform Talents Into Careers

The Chaplain Chimes In

10 From the OLSH Vault

16 What's Happening Around OLSH 21 OLSH News and Notes 22 Alumni News and Notes 24 In Memorium 25 Where In The World

OUR LADY OF THE SACRED HEART HIGH SCHOOL â&#x20AC;˘ 1

Hats Off to the Class of 2013!

n June, 91 new OLSH alumni headed out into the world to pursue their dreams – although not too far, as the Class of 2013 stayed fairly close to home for their post-secondary studies, with the farthest traveling grads studying in Vermont, Indiana, and Tennessee. Members of the Class of 2013 received over $6 million in scholarship offers and are studying a variety of subjects including engineering, medical and health sciences, communications, psychology, culinary arts, cosmetology and carpentry. Best of luck to OLSH’s newest alumni in all their future endeavors!

Post-Secondary Institutions Attended by our New Graduates Allegheny College Baldwin-Wallace College Bella Capelli/Paul Mitchell Beauty School Belmont University (TN) Carlow University Carnegie Mellon University Community College of Allegheny County Community College of Beaver County Columbus College of Art & Design Duquesne University Edinboro University Franciscan University of Steubenville Gannon University Gettysburg College Grove City College Indiana University of Pennsylvania John Carroll University Kent State University Malone University Marietta University Mercy Hospital School of Nursing Miami University (OH)

Penn State University – Behrend Campus Penn State University – Main Campus Pittsburgh Technical Institute Purdue University Robert Morris University Seton Hill University Slippery Rock University St. Francis University St. Vincent College The Catholic University of America The Ohio State University University of Dayton University of Mount Union University of Notre Dame University of Pittsburgh University of Pittsburgh – Johnstown University of Vermont Virginia Tech Washington & Jefferson College West Virginia University Xavier University Youngstown State University

Areas of Study Being Pursued Business Fine Arts Business

Liberal Arts

Fine Arts

Health Sciences/Medical

Liberal Arts

Natural Sciences Health Sciences/Medical Natural Sciences Engineering Engineering

Trade/Technical

Computer Science

Undecided Undecided Culinary ArtsArts Culinary Nursing

Nursing

Note: This information was provided by the Class of 2013 at the end of the 2012-2013 school year and may not reflect decisions made or plans that changed during the summer months.

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SPOTLIGHT: JESSICA SELLMAN '02 AND JENNA ZYROLL '07

Coming Home: Two Young Alums Return to Work at OLSH By Jessica Cerchiaro

hen students walk through the halls at the end of senior year saying their goodbyes, many of them know they’ll be back – perhaps to attend a volleyball or basketball game, to see the Christmas play or spring musical, or even just to say hello during their college’s fall break. However, some OLSH alumni find their way back to OLSH in an entirely different way: as employees. This academic year, two young alumnae rejoined the OLSH community in a professional capacity, providing leadership on the administrative team in the areas of admissions and advancement. When J e s s i c a S e l l m a n ‘ 0 2 heard about the opening for Director of Admissions, something inside her clicked. Even though she was content in her position working in the marketing and business development department of the international law firm K&L Gates, Sellman decided to apply for the position. “I have always wanted to work in a place where I felt like I

Jessica Sellman '02 is excited to share OLSH with prospective families.

made a difference and where I was truly passionate about the mission of an organization. I knew I would regret it for the rest of my life if I didn’t trust in God’s plan for me and take that leap of faith.” After working in the school for a little over a month, she has found that the family spirit of OLSH remains strong and has felt welcomed back with open arms by her former teachers. The biggest difference that she has noticed about OLSH is the technology. “I like to think I’m tech-savvy, but it’s amazing how far the school has come in such a short time and how technologically advanced OLSH is beyond so many other sch o o ls!” Wh ile sh e h as a newfound respect for the amount of time and preparation the faculty puts into the courses they teach, the transition from student to staff has been easier than she thought. “OLSH has been my home since I first walked through its doors, and despite how the building, faculty and staff have changed over the years, it still felt like coming home when I started my position in August.” Sellman is excited to share her experiences and love for OLSH with the many prospective students in the Pittsburgh area, and is invested in seeing the school flourish for years to come. Also experiencing a change in career upon returning to OLSH is J e n n a Zyroll ‘07. With a master's degree in professional and school counseling, Zyroll was working as a mobile therapy and behavior specialist consulting with children aged 3-19. While earning her undergrad degree at Slippery Rock University, she worked part-time in the school’s advancement office, running their annual phonathon. During that time, she really grew to enjoy the work of advancing an organization’s mission and building relationships with alumni. Zyroll first considered returning to OLSH for employment based upon the potential to work in an environment that would allow her

Jenna Zyroll '07 returns to OLSH as a leader on the Advancement Team.

to give back. “I’m most excited about working with a team to help move OLSH forward and to reach out and connect with fellow OLSH alumni.” For Zyroll, the transition from student to staff has been smooth – especially since she did an internship at OLSH for counseling a few years ago. “It is definitely a unique circumstance to be working with some of my high school teachers, but everyone has been so welcoming and supportive of my transition. The teachers at OLSH genuinely care for students and the students genuinely want to be successful and well-rounded people – the ‘feeling’ walking in the door is the same.” Zyroll will employ her passion and enthusiasm as a leader on the advancement team at OLSH, serving in the role of Alumni, Events, and Annual Giving Manager. She recently led the school’s first “Thank-a-thon” in which students and alumni called donors to thank them for their commitment to OLSH. As Sellman and Zyroll continue to get reacquainted with OLSH, their personal experiences and strong connections with the school, faculty and alumni are sure to bring them and OLSH great success. 

OUR LADY OF THE SACRED HEART HIGH SCHOOL • 3

HOMECOMING 2013

omecoming 2013 festivities were enjoyed by alumni on October 4th and 5th. Before the game, alumni and their families met outside Joe Walton Stadium for a pre-game tailgate party. Over 60 alumni from the 1960s through the 2010s cheered the Chargers on to a victory over South Side Area. The Class of 1978 was recognized for its participation in last year’s OLSH Fund with a party in the president’s box. After the game, alums headed to Cadillac Ranch in Settlers Ridge for more fun and catching up with old friends. On Saturday, alumni were invited to OLSH for a meeting of the Alumni Association, calling for nominations for leadership positions within the group and an open forum discussion of new ideas for engaging alumni with their alma mater. Following a productive meeting, a small group of alumni participated in Mass together. The weekend generated a great display of OLSH community spirit and plans are already underway for next year’s event! 

SPOTLIGHT: CHRISTINE SERKOCH '91

Proud to Be a Pirate

Creating Life-Changing Opportunities

By Jen Reilly-McCardell ‘92

he goals of a Major League baseball team appear simple and obvious enough. Over the course of a 162-game season, win as many games as possible. However, as an organization, a team can find success and purpose beyond the confines of a box score. As Director of Special Events and Game Presentation for the Pittsburgh Pirates, Christine Serkoch ‘91 helps to develop partnerships that lead to winning combinations both on the field and in the community. Serkoch oversees all of the Pirates Special Events that take place before, during, and after each season. She is in charge of fundraising events for Pirates Charities, and oversees the Game Presentation staff that produces scoreboard content and in-game entertainment. The more than 150 annual events Serkoch plans include PirateFest, Winter Caravan, Skyblasts, ROOT SPORTS Auction for Pirates Charities, and Pre-Game Ceremonies. She has a tireless enthusiasm for her work and the direct connection it gives her to the community. “I love the unbelievable feeling of satisfaction and pride that I get from making someone’s dream/wish come true. Sometimes, I almost feel selfish about it! But my job gives me a ton of pleasure - when 38,000 fans are cheering for a band at Skyblast, when PirateFest packs record crowds during snowstorms, when someone has tossing out the first pitch on their “bucket list” (like Sr. Francine) – all of that makes me feel very proud to be a Pirate!” Her journey to become a Pirate began as a student at Duquesne University. During her junior year, the Pirates Vice President of Marketing gave a lecture to her class. “He came to speak about the 1994 MLB All-Star Game and what that national event was going to mean to the city, our residents, and the community... and I was hooked!”

Serkoch reflects on an impactful experience Serkoch began an internship with the Pirates that spring and graduated from Duquesne with a bachelor’s in Business Administration. Her first job out of college was in the Pirates ticket office, but soon moved into Public Relations. She began to plan events like PirateFest, “and it’s there that I found my niche,” she says. Over her 18 years with the Pirates, Serkoch has enjoyed experiences that many would envy. She planned events surrounding the opening of PNC Park and the 2006 MLB All-Star Week. “I have met world leaders, celebrities, musicians, corporate CEOs and I have met community volunteers and Pirates fans old and young. They all have one thing in common: When I walk them out onto the field at PNC Park for the first time, they all have the same awestruck reaction. And I’m the one that gave them that experience...so it’s pretty humbling.” However, what is special and most important to her is the impact of Pirates Charities. “I have said it a million times: Working for such a community-minded organization like the Pirates, I am in a unique position to make a significant and tangible impact in the lives of people who need it and as members of the Pirates family, we are all compelled to do it! At OLSH, that same quality of helping those who need help was instilled in all of us from Day One. And that has definitely carried over to what I’m doing now professionally.” 

In 2009, I was asked to plan a “Grand Opening Celebration” of our baseball facility outside of Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic. I traveled to what can only be described as “the jungle” three times and was scared beyond belief about traveling to a third-world country. Only eight MLB teams have a permanent presence in the Dominican, and the Pirates were building a first-class facility right in the middle of the very poor town of El Toro. I learned that the Pirates were doing more than building a baseball school... they were changing a town. Each time I visited, I was more and more impressed with the economic impact the facility/structure was having on the small town. Jobs were created, not just to build the school, but to maintain it! People could put food on the table for their children. They could afford clothing and shoes. The opportunities we created were life-changing. The Pirates also decided to rehabilitate a Catholic school nearby, Escuela de Madra Laura. Pirates Charities spent over $50,000 on renovations and fencing to keep out drug dealers and to buy computers, pencils, paper, shoes, etc.! Now we do clothing drives and school supply drives to send to the Sisters and children there each year. To me, the fact that the Pirates are hoping to find baseball talent in El Toro is secondary to the extraordinary amount of good we are doing for the people and the community. I was lucky to have a small part in that and am very proud of the Pirates for what they did, and are doing, there.

OUR LADY OF THE SACRED HEART HIGH SCHOOL • 5

OLSH Athletes Transfor By Jenna Zyroll ‘07

ransformation, one of the Felician Core Values, is defined as “the process that encourages an open mind and heart, leading to continuous improvement of the person.” At Our Lady of the Sacred Heart High School, students experience this transformation first-hand as they begin to discern a future career path. OLSH alumni can be found in a wide variety of occupations, from medical professions to education, from the sciences to the arts, and everything in between. In this recurring section of OLSHighlights, we will feature alumni in various career fields. In this issue, we begin with the stories of two OLSH alumni who turned their love of athletics into careers that have brought them both success and happiness. Devin Crosby, a member of the class of ’93 and the OLSH Athletic Hall of Fame, transferred to OLSH for his senior year of high school. “I intentionally went to OLSH because it was clear to my parents that I needed more structure if I was going to have any success in my life. [Transferring] was the best thing that ever happened to me

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athletic programs to improve competitively and helping students to develop into good business people and citizens. Crosby credits his success to the support and connections he made as an OLSH student. “ U n e q u i v o c a l l y, O L S H i s single-handedly the foundation of what I’ve been able to accomplish in my career. I give so much respect to Sr. Chris and Sr. Francine. I credit them for what I’ve been able to Devin Crosby '93 speaks to a group of students at Kent State. accomplish. I think about them all the time. I’m so thankful that in terms of my career”. Crosby could send info about me back God helped me to connect with participated in boys basketball to them and I asked him ‘You them.” and track, and he recognizes get paid to do this?’ That was OLSH as a place where teachers the moment I said ‘I’d love to Like Crosby, Clarisse Garcia and administrators encouraged do what you do’”. Crosby’s '03, also transferred to OLSH. students to develop their talents transformation from athlete to She came to and pursue their dreams. As professional began in graduate OLSH in her the result of the group effort school, and then through a j u n i o r y e a r, by Srs. Chris and Francine and job as a Hall Director at the and quickly Mr. Michael McDonald, Crosby College of the Holy Cross in b e c a m e was allowed to participate as Massachusetts. In addition involved a single athlete in track, even to working full time, Crosby with OLSH though OLSH had no track team volunteered in the athletics athletics. at the time. Crosby went on to department before accepting a G a r c i a place second in his event in the full-time position after a year. played varsity girls basketball WPIAL State Championship. Crosby has since worked his a n d s e r v e d a s D i r e c t o r o f way up in a host of colleges and Athletics for OLSH Student After high school, Crosby went universities, in positions ranging Government. She holds many to Slippery Rock University, from Director of Marketing OLSH memories dear to her where he discovered that he and Fundraising to Teacher and heart. “The people are the could make a career out of Associate Athletic Director. reason OLSH is special. I have his passion for athletics. “The Currently, Crosby serves as a great group of friends and we sports information director Deputy Athletics Director at still keep in touch today. Some approached me because he Kent State University, where of my fondest memories were wanted to know the newspapers he believes the best part of his made with these great friends!” that I grew up reading so he job is to be a part of helping

rm Talents Into Careers Garcia decided at an early age that she wanted to be a sports broadcast journalist. “I assumed that after I graduated from Villanova after playing basketball there for four years, I would take over the desk at ESPN Sports Center and begin my career behind the camera.” It turns out that God’s plan for her was a little different. After college, Garcia began coaching as a graduate assistant at Seton Hill University. While it was never something she considered as a career, she fell in love with coaching and is going into her seventh year coaching at the collegiate level. Currently, Garcia is an assistant women’s basketball coach at Wake Forest University, an NCAA Division I institution that competes in the Atlantic Coast Conference. Her primary responsibilities include player development, recruiting (nationally and internationally), scouting opponents, alumni relations, and team building. She feels blessed to be able to do what she loves on a daily basis. “Basketball has given me the opportunity to meet some of the most amazing people, as well as travel throughout the world. I am able to be a mentor and teacher to young women on a daily basis who are in an extremely transformational time in their lives. I love helping our players set goals, and watching

Clarisse Garcia '03 coaching a player during a key moment in the game.

t h e m a c h i e v e t h e i r g o a l s ’98 is the head coach for boys during their time in college and s o c c e r, C h r i s t i n a R o s e t o beyond!” ’05 and Devin McGrath ’09 are assistant girls volleyball C r o s b y a n d G a r c i a h a v e coaches, and Mike Leon ’05 transformed the talent and is an assistant coach for the passion for sports that they boys and girls cross country fostered at OLSH into careers teams. OLSH alumni can also in collegiate athletics. In be found behind the scenes of addition, a number of other professional sports, sharing alumni have transformed from expertise in video and graphic OLSH student-athletes to OLSH design, and even marketing and coaches. This fall, Kip Michel special events. Today's OLSH

student athletes have a variety of options for developing their own passion for athletics into fruitful, sports-related careers. 

If you are an OLSH alumnus working in an athletic-related career, we’d love to hear about it! Send us an email at alumni@olsh.org.

OUR LADY OF THE SACRED HEART HIGH SCHOOL • 7

Friendship “There is nothing on this earth more to be prized than true friendship,” St. Thomas Aquinas writes. “Friendship is agreement in things human and divine, with good will and charity.”

t. Aelred of Rievaulx, a monk of the twelfth century, draws from the classical tradition to give this definition of friendship. Pope Emeritus Benedict writes, “This desire for communication and friendship is rooted in our very nature as human beings... The concept of friendship is one of the noblest achievements of human culture. It is in and through our friendships that we grow and develop as humans. For this reason, true friendship has always been seen as one of the greatest goods any human person can experience.”1 As we consider the theme of partnerships, I would like to offer a brief reflection on this particular kind of partnership, the gift of friendship. Beginning this year as the new chaplain at OLSH, I was pleased to be able to speak to the incoming class of freshmen at their retreat. In a brief exhortation, I encouraged them to be open to developing friendships during their time at OLSH – friendships which would be authentic and helpful for their growth in virtue. As they pursue their studies and sports, they have great opportunity to develop meaningful friendships as they share interests on the human level. As they learn about the Catholic faith, they realize the fellowship they have in the spiritual order. For those with whom they disagree or with whom they do not share a common Faith, they have opportunity to grow in good will and charity. It is important that no one should be excluded from friendships. Ultimately, the students at OLSH are blessed if they discover during their years in high school the reality of friendship with Jesus Christ. In and through our love of Jesus Christ, we find the possibility for the deepest friendships as well as the most expansive openness to friendship.

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St. Aelred writes on the Christian meaning of friendship: “The right kind of friendship would begin in Christ, be maintained according to Christ, and have its end and value referred to Christ.” A good friend wants his friends to be the best persons they can be – to be in union with Jesus Christ. In the Bible, we see great examples of friendship. Notably in the Old Testament, the friendship between David and Jonathan is vividly described: “David’s heart was knit to the heart of Jonathan by a close bond, and Jonathan loved David thenceforward as dearly as his own life.” (1 Samuel 18:1). The Wisdom literature praises the value of friendship, Faithful friends are a sturdy shelter: whoever finds one has found a treasure. Faithful friends are beyond price; no amount can balance their worth. Faithful friends are life-saving medicine; and those who fear the Lord will find them. -Sirach 6:14-16 NRSV In the New Testament, St. John’s Gospel presents Jesus’ relationship with his disciples as friendship, as Jesus says, “I do not speak of you any more as my servants; . . . I have called you my friends.” (John 15:15). This dynamic of friendship with Jesus Christ is crucial to our fulfillment of the commandment to love our neighbor. Pope Emeritus Benedict writes about the meaning of friendship in Christ, "Love of neighbour is shown to be possible in the way proclaimed by the Bible, by Jesus. It consists in the very fact that, in God and with God, I love even the person whom I do not like or even know. This can only take place on the basis of an intimate encounter with God, an encounter which has become a communion of will, even affecting my feelings. Then I learn to look on this other person not simply 1 2

Fr. Frederick Gruber OLSH Chaplain with my eyes and my feelings, but from the perspective of Jesus Christ. His friend is my friend." (Encyclical Letter, Deus Caritas Est, 18) Through our friendship with Jesus Christ, in the mystery of the unconditional love of His Sacred Heart for all people, we can open our hearts to friendship to any and all. There are always some friends who are closer, in whom we more readily confide, but the beauty of Christian love forms the heart after the heart of Christ for a full openness to friendship. OLSH students are given the opportunity to form this disposition of love. My prayer for the students, faculty, alumni and benefactors of OLSH is for the development of this friendship with Jesus Christ. Pope Emeritus Benedict vigorously asserts the great value of this friendship in Christ. “If we let Christ into our lives, we lose nothing, nothing, absolutely nothing of what makes life free, beautiful and great. . . . Only in this friendship are the doors of life opened wide. Only in this friendship is the great potential of human existence truly revealed. Only in this friendship do we experience beauty and liberation.” Finally, consider this question of Cardinal Bertone, who asks, “What, in fact, is Heaven other than the definitive fulfillment of friendship with Christ and with each other?”2 

Message of the Holy Father Benedict XVI for the 43rd World Communications Day Message of His Eminence Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone on behalf of His Holiness Benedict XVI

For Your Viewing Pleasure:

New Technology Enhances Education By Katie Bartus and Adam Griffith

uring the summer, new technology upgrades were implemented throughout the school – from a new wireless Internet service to the installation of Epson interactive projectors and speakers in each classroom and a new video streaming system. These updates have changed the way content is delivered to our students, as the morning announcements are now streamed live to each classroom and teachers can share information with students wirelessly via their iPads. The new IPTV streaming system has vastly improved the quality of the video that is viewed by the students, and has made the morning announcements the centerpiece of homeroom each day. Senior John Wojtechko, lead technical director for the WCHR tech team, is excited about the new capabilities. “Students are enjoying the broadcasts more and are more attentive to it. It better showcases what we do in WCHR. There is a lot of talent behind and in front of the camera. The new technology definitely conveys that to the students.” The WCHR crew has taken advantage of the improvements, creating “commercials” as well as re-cap videos for OLSH events. OLSH faculty members have been discovering new ways to utilize this technology to further enhance their students’ classroom experiences. The teachers are enthusiastic about the new possibilities it brings to the classroom. Using their iPads with the Epson interactive projectors, they are able to integrate more online tools and interactive games into their lessons, bringing new life to the classroom.

Latin teacher Adam Griffith working with his Latin I class.

Geometry teacher Brian Molka has thoroughly enjoyed the interactive projectors. “The new technology has greatly enhanced my classroom. I am able to teach with all different colors and screen types from the whiteboard, and teach remotely from my iPad using applications such as 'NoteAbility' and 'Educreations'. The students are enjoying using the whiteboard and especially the iPad in projecting their work during class. While working on the whiteboard or iPad, the previous screens are saved so that, at any time in the period, I can double-back to a page if necessary. It is absolutely amazing how Geometry and even Algebra can come to life when you add colors and insert diagrams from the Web.” This technology allows teachers to innovate, adapt, and modify their lessons to fit the individual needs of a class, or a student. Some teachers

are creating presentations that can be archived and shared with other teachers both within and outside of OLSH. “I’ve been able to upload notes from the interactive projectors to my blog so that students and parents can stay up-to-date. I also have found it useful to annotate PowerPoint presentations and Web pages right on the screen during class discussions,” said English teacher Kristi Vent. This new technology has also allowed teachers to imagine new ways for students to interact with the curriculum. From dissecting a virtual frog in biology to playing “Speed Latin” to review for a quiz, teachers are now taking the lessons out of the book and bringing them to life. This year’s upgrades are positioning OLSH at the leading edge of technology education by both preparing them for the digital age and allowing them to learn interactively. 

OUR LADY OF THE SACRED HEART HIGH SCHOOL • 9

FROM THE OLSH VAULT

OLSH Volunteers By Theresa Long ‘86

“A community spirit does not just happen of itself. It flows from people who share a common tradition and strive for a common goal outside themselves.” – Blessed Mary Angela

orging right relationships through compassionate service has always been a tradition at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, and many clubs and organizations throughout OLSH’s rich history have been dedicated to performing service. One such club was the OLSH Volunteers, a group that was formed in the 1970s and ‘80s. Making their walk across the breezeway, which once connected the school to St. Joseph’s Infirmary, students would sacrifice their study halls and lunch periods to visit with the Sisters, comfort the sick, escort them to and from lunch, participate in the making of crafts, and host holiday parties and the occasional bingo. Getting to know the Sisters, sharing their lives and taking care of those who had spent their lives taking care of others was a formative experience for many of the student volunteers. The Sisters and the OLSH Volunteers established a personal and mutually beneficial relationship. During the renovation of 2002, a portion of the convent was designed for the care of elderly sisters and St. Joseph’s Infirmary became vacant. Shortly after, the Woodcrest Retirement Residence moved into the former St. Joseph’s Hall, providing affordable housing to low-income senior citizens. OLSH students, still eager to serve their neighbors, sought a relationship with the senior residents of Woodcrest. Both a group of NHS students and an activity moderated by Ms. K a re n Ru n t ic h , fo rmed new partnerships with our next-door neighbors. Currently, students visit with residents during activity periods in addition to hosting a monthly event where residents and students do everything from singing Christmas carols and

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making holiday crafts to watching movies and playing bingo. The faces and names may have changed, but the spirit is the same. The new era of “OLSH Volunteers” is keeping the tradition of compassionate service to our neighbors alive and well at OLSH. 

OLSH ADVANCEMENT NEWS PLC RECEPTION On September 5, OLSH welcomed members of the President’s Leadership Council (PLC), those members of the OLSH community who have given $1,000 or more to OLSH in the previous year for a reception in Founders Hall. Guests mingled with new OLSH staff and board members, learned of OLSH advancements over the summer months, heard thank you stories from two senior students, and viewed OLSH’s new promotional video interviews.

SAVE THE DATE!

OLSH Legacy Gala February 22, 2014

Join us for this year’s Legacy Gala as we honor Tim O’Sullivan with the Legacy Award, and introduce several new awards, including the Spirit of OLSH award, honoring Bishop David Zubik. We will also honor an OLSH alumnus and faculty member with the “Heart and Soul of OLSH” award. Nomination information will be shared at a later date. Check the Legacy Gala page of the OLSH website for updates – www.olsh.org/ advancement/olsh-legacy-gala. Volunteers are needed for various committees for the Gala. If you are interested in helping out, please contact us at legacygala@olsh.org.

DAY OF GIVING

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

OLSH was blessed by the participation of 72 donors in the 2013 Day of Giving. Gifts of $25-$1,000 given through the Pittsburgh Gives website on October 3 were eligible for a prorated match from The Pittsburgh Foundation. This year’s Day of Giving garnered $14,949.90 in donations to OLSH. The success of the Day of Giving, combined with 100% participation in The OLSH Fund by OLSH faculty and staff for the first time in school history is a great start to this year’s advancement efforts.

OLSH alumni are making a difference daily in the world and in an effort to better connect with the alumni community, a formal OLSH Alumni Association has been created. All OLSH graduates are automatically members of the organization. A group of dedicated alumni have served as members of the leadership group, the Alumni Council, for the past year, and have worked hard to develop more programming and events to engage OLSH alumni. The Alumni Council sought new members this fall and during Homecoming, and received a variety of nominations for leadership positions within the Council. A president, vice president, secretary/treasurer, and historian will be elected to two year terms by current and new members of the Council later this fall. Spots are still available for new Alumni Council members. The Alumni Council meets throughout the year to plan events and activities for alumni. If you are interested in getting involved, please contact Jenna Zyroll ’07, Alumni, Events & Annual Giving Manager, at jzyroll@olsh.org or (412) 269-7726.

Get your OLSH ALumni t-shirt today! Designed by alumna Jen Reilly-McCardell '92, these purple shirts are great for showing your Charger pride! Shirts are $15 each and can be ordered by contacting Jenna Zyroll at (412) 269-7726 or alumni@olsh.org. Special THANKS to Alexis Jabour '09 OUR LADY OF THE SACRED HEART HIGH SCHOOL • 11

ver the years, Youthtowne has become synonymous with memories of bonfires and Harvest Dances, retreats and outdoor Masses, Charger Challenge and Powder Puff Football games, and cheering on OLSH’s baseball, softball, soccer, and cross country teams. In many ways, it is OLSH’s home away from home. Since the beginning of its partnership with OLSH in the 1980s, Youthtowne has become more than a place. It has become

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a catch-all reference to the Maronda Foundation, which owns and operates Youthtowne, under the leadership of the Wolf family. In an effort to further their mission to let experiences serve as teachers and to help young people encounter Jesus Christ, the Maronda Foundation has provided OLSH and its students with a variety of opportunities to grow and thrive. In the process, Youthtowne has become entrenched in the history and traditions of the school and its community.

OLSH Activities at Youthtowne OLSH’s partnership with Youthtowne began in the mid-1980s, when thenprincipal Sr. M. Christopher Moore '63 was looking for a location for student retreats. The Maronda Foundation offered the use of Youthtowne, and the connection began. Students were picked up at OLSH in a ’66 international bus nicknamed “The Blue Goose” and spent the weekend in the barn with

By Jessica Cerchiaro & Deena Swank '92

Sr. Johnna for an overnight retreat. As the years went on, students continued to travel to Youthtowne for overnight and day retreats. Even today, the senior class begins and ends its last year at OLSH with a retreat at Youthtowne.

Island field closed and OLSH soccer lost their home field for the regular season, Coach Michel asked if the team could continue using the space at Youthtowne. Mr. William Wolf not only agreed, he built a second field.

anonymously providing financial support to students with great financial need. It was his hope to provide the opportunity for an OLSH education to students who might not otherwise have been able to afford it.

As the relationship between OLSH and Youthtowne continued, more events began to take place there. Each autumn, students would flock there for the Harvest Dance, which included hay rides, a bonfire, and the crowning of the Harvest Court. Later, Charger Challenge became a yearly kick-off event for not only fundraising, but also community building. Students still gather at the barn for a back-to-school event that includes hayrides, Powder Puff Football, a bonfire, and Mass.

The following year, when OLSH baseball lost its home field, Youthtowne graciously created a field for the Chargers to use. At the time, it had only a backstop, home plate, and a grass infield. For the next season, sideline fences were added, and subsequent improvements to the field have included a homerun fence, dugouts, an electronic scoreboard, lighting, and a concession stand.

When Mr. Wolf anxiously inquired about how the students he supported were performing academically, he was disappointed to hear that some were not doing very well. He approached Tim O’Sullivan, the Director of Youthtowne, about creating a more formalized program with academic support. The result was the birth of the Youthtowne Young Scholars Program, which provided select students with a full scholarship to OLSH, provided they maintained certain academic standards. In addition, Mr. Wolf funded the hiring of a full-time education professional to work with the students on scholarship and help support their academic success.

The students of OLSH have both benefitted from and contributed to the Maronda Foundation mission. When Youthtowne began hosting summer day camps for area children, OLSH students became the counselors and volunteers, helping to create fun experiences for local elementary students.

Sports In 1994, OLSH sports found a home at Youthtowne when soccer coach Jim Michel was looking for a place to hold soccer camp. Sr. Chris suggested Youthtowne, and they agreed. They set aside a flat area of land, purchased steel goals, and painted lines. When the Neville

The cross country team also joined the tradition of athletics at Youthtowne. The team hosted an invitational tournament there and began using the grounds as its home course. Today, the Chargers call Youthtowne home for girls and boys soccer; softball; baseball; and horseback riding. The golf team now calls Marada Golf course, owned by Youthtowne, home as well.

Academic and Financial Support In the early 1990s, as Mr. Wolf’s affiliation with OLSH continued to grow, he was impressed by the kind of education that OLSH had to offer. As a result, he began

Once the efforts of the Young Scholar mentor proved fruitful, Youthtowne added two more fulltime education professionals to the OLSH staff: mentors for both the Freshman and Sophomore classes. These mentors worked with students individually and in small groups, reinforcing study skills and tutoring those students who needed extra assistance. continued on page 14

OUR LADY OF THE SACRED HEART HIGH SCHOOL • 13

continued from page 13

World Youth Day In 1993, Youthtowne and the Maronda Foundation initiated yet another opportunity to OLSH students: the chance to attend World Youth Day. Mr. Wolf couldn’t imagine the Pope being in the United States and Pittsburgh not being represented. When the Diocese cancelled its trip to Denver for a local group of students, Mr. Wolf chartered a plane and charged Tim O’Sullivan, who was working as a youth minister at the time, with the task of filling that plane. He provided half of the funding for the trip and asked the students to fundraise the remainder, and he asked O’Sullivan to start by inviting the poorest churches first. When the plane was full, Wolf discovered that OLSH was not included, so he provided a second plane and invited a group of OLSH students to attend the trip for free. Youthtowne continued to provide the opportunity for OLSH students to attend World Youth Days in the Philippines in 1995; Paris, France, in 1997; Rome in 2000; Toronto in 2002; Cologne, Germany, in 2005; and Sydney, Australia, in 2008. For each of these trips, Mr. Wolf chartered planes and funded half of the cost. He asked the students to fundraise the other half of the money to instill in them a sense of ownership and accomplishment in earning the trip. Wolf even provided supplies for hoagies that students could make and sell, allowing them to earn 100% of the profits toward their trip. The World Youth Day experiences provided by the Maronda Foundation were life-changing for many OLSH students, some of whom had never traveled out of state before, let alone out of the country. The opportunity to see the Pope in person might have been an unimaginable and unattainable goal for many, had it not been for the efforts of Youthtowne and the Wolf family. Through the efforts of many, Youthtowne has become a part of OLSH history. It has served as a hub of OLSH activities, a source of financial and academic support, and a home field advantage. This "home away from home" is the site and source of many OLSH memories to date, and likely will be for years to come. 

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Sharing the Mission:

OLSH Partners with Local Scholar Programs By Jessica Sellman ‘02

tudents come to OLSH to find their purpose in life, or so it is often quoted by OLSH students and alumni who truly value the time they spent within the schools’ halls. For some students, that purpose is made even more profound by the personal life experiences they have had prior to their enrollment at our school.

OLSH has a rich history of providing students with not only a quality education, but with an opportunity to reach their fullest potential regardless of their starting points in life. As such, OLSH is blessed to assist in providing this opportunity to students enrolled in programs such as Girls Hope of Pittsburgh and Crossroads Foundation, two organizations doing everything in their power to help worthy, determined students reach their dreams. These two programs are making a difference in the community, and at OLSH.

GIRLS HOPE OF PITTSBURGH

CROSSROADS FOUNDATION

Born of the vision of the Sisters of St. Joseph to provide a preventive program for young girls, Girls Hope of Pittsburgh was founded in 1990 as a private, non-denominational program for academically talented young women of all backgrounds. The organization, backed by the missions of both the Sisters of St. Joseph in Baden and the Felician Sisters in Coraopolis, provides a stable home environment for girls ages 10 to 18 who have been affected by adverse conditions and environments in their young lives. Girls Hope of Pittsburgh is the only branch of the national organization to have two home bases in the same city—one in Baden with the Sisters of St. Joseph, one in Coraopolis with the Felician Sisters—and is currently at capacity in both homes with sixteen total full-time residents between the ages of 10 and 18. “Often, people don’t realize that we have three full-time, highly trained, live-in Residential Counselors in each house who are ultimately responsible for the physical, emotional and academic development and success of the scholars,” says executive director Tom Wiese. As a testament to the will of each participant, the program has graduated 10 accomplished young women since 1991, with a long-term goal of eventually building a third home for boys. One Girls Hope graduate, an OLSH alumna who was the first person from her family to be accepted to and graduate from college, obtained a Masters degree in Criminal Justice Administration and now helps first-time offenders re-enter society. “To me, Girls Hope has been my saving grace,” she says, “Without all of the unconditional love and support that [I received], I would not be here today.“

Crossroads Foundation just celebrated 25 years in existence, years made richer by the organization's nearly 400 graduates, 97% rate of students pursuing higher education, and dedicated counseling staff. Unique in that it views itself truly as a college preparatory program, Crossroads partners directly with Catholic grade schools and high schools to identify urban adolescents with multiple risk factors in their lives that could impede their future growth potential. Crossroads provides holistic scholarships that consist of tuition assistance and intensive academic and psychosocial support services. “People often assume that Crossroads primarily provides scholarships for students to attend Catholic schools,” says Esther Mellinger Stief of the Crossroads staff. “That financial support is only a small part of what we do. We are serious about ‘turning students into scholars.’” This is certainly proven by the organization’s 15 different summer programs, including courses in SAT prep, study skills, and technology, volunteer opportunities, and residential college experiences, and aided by the fact that the program has grown to now support 115 scholars in seven Catholic high schools. “We don’t want to keep our work a ‘secret’,” stresses Stief, “we want to share what we do in order to positively impact more students.” OLSH is proud to currently have two Crossroads scholars in our family, and hopes to identify more students in the future who could benefit from this highly successful support program. Find out more by visiting the Crossroads Foundation website at www.crossroadsfoundation.org.

Find out more by visiting the Girls Hope of Pittsburgh website at www.girlshope.org.

OUR LADY OF THE SACRED HEART HIGH SCHOOL • 15

WHAT'S HAPPENING AROUND OLSH MISSION TRIP 2013

group of nine OLSH students, three faculty members and one parent attended the Catholic Heart Work Camp (CHWC) in Toledo, OH, this summer. The group worked around the town, cleaning up garden areas and lawns during the day and participating in prayer, worship and fun at night. The OLSH group joined hundreds of other students from around the country participating in CHWC. Sam Spencer ‘15 enjoyed the experience, commenting, “It was a lot of hard work, but it was great to see that I could make a difference. I had a lot of fun meeting new people and celebrating my faith.”

“YOU CAN’T TAKE IT WITH YOU”

NOTRE DAME VISION

On October 18th and 19th, a group of 24 OLSH students presented OLSH’s first fall play in over 20 years. The performance stemmed from the desire of the theatre students for another opportunity to perform, and for the chance to perform a straight show, in addition to a musical. The comedic play for the 1930s told the story of the unique Sycamore family.

Six OLSH students attended the Notre Dame Vision program at Notre Dame University in June. This summer retreat/ workshop gives students the opportunity for prayer and reflection, to discover their gifts and to begin discerning what God has in store for them. The students shared their experiences with the Class of 2017 during the freshman overnight retreat.

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EUCHARISTIC PROCESSION Continuing a beloved OLSH tradition, the annual Eucharistic Procession was held on September 13th. Led by a color guard of students and the local Knights of Columbus, OLSH chaplain Fr. Gruber guided the student body in a procession around campus with the Blessed Sacrament. Following a path of chalk drawings of Eucharistic symbols created by students, the procession paused at the statue of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart for Benediction, before ending in the Chapel.

STRIKE UP THE BAND! By Katelyn Gilroy

obert Morris University recently reached out to the OLSH band in an effort to encourage students to continue to participate in band throughout high school and college. The partnership began when Elizabeth Charles, Director of Bands and Performing Ensembles at RMU, contacted OLSH music teacher Karie Jarvis and invited the OLSH band to participate in a ‘High School Band Day’ in September. Charles then visited the OLSH band camp and offered playing tips to the pep band members. On August 30, 2013, RMU’s band joined the OLSH pep band to perform at the first OLSH home football game. When ‘High School Band Day’ arrived, OLSH students met at RMU for an early morning band practice to learn part of the half-time performance with the university’s 80-member band. During the game, the OLSH and RMU bands were joined by the Sto-Rox high school band. OLSH then performed with RMU during the half-time show. OLSH band Director Karie Jarvis is excited about this collaboration. “I am thrilled that our small band has had the chance to perform with a large ensemble. It has really given the OLSH band a confidence boost.” This opportunity has given OLSH band members a chance to meet RMU students, learn playing tips, and discuss the benefits of continuing to participate in band throughout high school and college. Jarvis is hopeful that the partnership will continue, as the RMU band fraternity, Kappa Kappa Psi, is required to complete service hours with another band. A continued partnership would only help OLSH’s small, enthusiastic band to grow. 

OUR LADY OF THE SACRED HEART HIGH SCHOOL • 17

WHAT'S HAPPENING AROUND OLSH ATHLETICS BASEBALL TRACK & FIELD BOYS VOLLEYBALL The 2013 baseball team ended its season as WPIAL Class A runnersup and made the quarter-final round in PIAA playoffs. Preston Falascino ’13 and Tim Mulvey ’13 led the team to a final overall record of 20-4. While the team lost nine seniors, the young 2014 team is excited to continue the Chargers’ success.

The boys and girls track teams enjoyed a successful season with the girls and boys 3200 relay teams, Alyssa Wolf (200 and 400 meter runs), John Jumba (javelin), Dom DeSalle (800 meter run), and Matt Haupt (3200 meter run) qualifying for WPIAL championships. Wolf, Haupt and the boys relay team also qualified for the PIAA championships. Many school records were broken during the season and the team is looking forward to a successful 2014 season.

SOFTBALL

FOOTBALL

The 2013 softball team ended the season with an 8-7 record (including post-season and non-section games), making the WPIAL playoffs for the second year. Team captains Sophia Worrall ’13, Emily Duerr ’14, Natalie Pollack ’14, and Taylor DiPerna ’15 led the team through some tough games, and Worrall, Duerr, and DiPerna made all-section at the end of the season. The team looks forward to the 2014 season, with many returning starters in the lineup.

2013 brought a record-breaking season for the boys volleyball team as they became our first to compete in PIAA playoffs. The team achieved this feat by beating rival Beaver County Christian School in the WPIAL consolation round. The team also made it to the semi-finals in the WPIAL, losing to runner-up Derry. Team captains Nick Mulvay ’13, Shaughn McDonald ’14 and Alex Ritter ’14 led what was thought to be a rebuilding year with only three experienced players returning, yet it ended up being the team’s most successful season yet.

The Chargers came back from last year’s disappointing season riddled with injuries to find themselves in a position to clinch the final playoff spot in their conference. Despite quarterback Billy Mulcahey’s ’14 season-ending injury early on, the team has rallied and worked hard to attempt to achieve a winning season.

AAC FLOOR MAKEOVER After a pipe burst in the summer, causing damage to the main gym, the AAC floor was repaired and refinished. The newly refurbished and painted floor recently opened again for use.

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Note: These updates are current as of the printing of this issue; the fall sports season is headed into playoffs and you can find out how your favorite Chargers team is doing by visiting www.olsh.org/athletics/playoff-information.

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL

GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY

BOYS CROSS COUNTRY

The undefeated section champs are ranked 2nd in the WPIAL Class A. After a difficult season based upon an inability to play on the AAC home court due to floor repairs, the girls returned home on October 16 to a full crowd of fans. The team, led by seniors Raquel Hewitt, Rebecca Porter, Tia Sciulli, Bailey Sinicrope and Lexie Yoho, look forward to a long playoff run.

After the final section meet of the season, the girls took the Class AA Section 2 title, with an undefeated section record of 8-0. The girls were also successful in invitational meets throughout the season and look forward to the WPIAL championships.

The Chargers ended the regular season with a 6-2 section record, placing 3rd in their section. The boys also saw great success at invitational meets throughout the season, often when competing against larger teams. The boys are anxious to defend their WPIAL title from last year.

GOLF This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s golf team had a successful, but challenging season, playing in a tough section with WPIAL champs Sewickley Academy. The young team is working to improve their skills and hope to be more competitive next season.

GIRLS SOCCER Led by senior captains Jen Haseleu, Holly Lisco, Danielle Vescio, and Lindsay Zuccaro, the Lady Chargers have enjoyed a successful season with a young team made up of many contributors to that success.

CHEERLEADERS BOYS SOCCER With a winning record this season, the boys were ranked 3rd in their section in Class A and look forward to an appearance in the playoffs. A highlight of the season was beating Bishop Canevin under the lights at Highmark Stadium in September.

The OLSH Cheerleaders spent the fall doing more than just cheering on the Chargers. They also worked to raise money for HairPeace charities in honor of breast cancer awareness month, culminating with the Pink Out football game on October 4. The girls raised over $1,100 for HairPeace, an organization that provides wigs to women undergoing cancer treatment.

OUR LADY OF THE SACRED HEART HIGH SCHOOL â&#x20AC;˘ 19

WHAT'S HAPPENING AROUND OLSH WITH NEW MEMBERS OF THE SOCIAL STUDIES DEPARTMENT!

his school year OLSH welcomed two new full-time members to the social studies department – Andrea Bagnell, who joined OLSH mid-way through the year last year as a part-time teacher, and Scott DeVivo.

MEET ANDREA BAGNELL

Q. What classes do you teach at OLSH? What activities are you a part of? A. I teach AP World History and World Geography and I am the Class of 2017 Moderator Q. What did you do before teaching at OLSH? A. I taught in the West Allegheny School District.

Q. What interested you in OLSH? A. I was interested in many things at OLSH – the strong academics, the Felician Core Values, and the tradition of excellence. Q. What do you like most about OLSH? A. Definitely the students, faculty and staff! Q. What do you like to do outside of OLSH? Do you have any hobbies? A. I enjoy spending time with my family, playing with my dogs Giuseppe and Luigi, going to Garden City Beach every summer and reading.

MEET SCOTT DEVIVO

Q. What classes do you teach at OLSH? What activities are you a part of? A. I teach World History and Honors Government/Economics and I lead the Frisbee activity. Q. What did you do before teaching at OLSH? A. I taught at University Prep in the Pittsburgh Public School District.

Q. What interested you in OLSH? A. When I was researching schools that had teaching openings, OLSH seemed like such a welcoming environment for teachers. In a school of this size, students can really get to know their teachers and form great relationships with them. I felt like OLSH was a school where I could really make an impact on my students. Q. What do you like about OLSH so far? A. The teachers welcomed me and made me feel like a part of the team very quickly. Q. Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of the classroom? A. I am a drummer and I like to travel.

HOMECOMING 2013 This year’s Homecoming King and Queen, announced at the Homecoming game on Friday, October 4, are seniors Billy Mulcahey and Rachel Cahalan.

20 • WWW.OLSH.ORG

FRESHMAN WELCOME WEEKEND

The Class of 2017 was welcomed into the OLSH family with an overnight retreat at Gilmary Retreat Center, followed by Mass and brunch with their families at OLSH. The class hails from 29 elementary schools around the Pittsburgh area, as well as from other states and countries.

OLSH NEWS AND NOTES Faculty & Staff

Stephanie Nese, Guidance Counselor, and her husband welcomed their first son, Maxwell James Nese on August 6. Maxwell was 8 lbs. 10 oz. and 19 inches long. Mike Schuster, math teacher, participated in a summer AP workshop sponsored by The College Board.

Students

Sarah Rozman ’14 took her interest in computer programming and engineering to the next level, as she participated in a summer program at Brown University, where she learned to program a cash register.

Parents

OLSH parent Deacon Kevin Lander was recently named Associate General Secretary for the Diocese of Pittsburgh.

Stephen Haupt ’13 and Alyssa Wolf ’13 were named Male and Female student athletes of the year for the 2012-2013 school year at the spring honors assembly. Stephen competed in cross country and track and field, leading the boys cross country team to the school’s first WPIAL championship. Alyssa competed in track and field, as well as competing independently in gymnastics. This year, OLSH welcomed six new members to its Board of Directors at a Board Retreat in August. New members include Fr. Richard Davis,

Board of Directors

Sr. Thaddeus Markelewicz was honored for her 50 years as a Felician Sister and her 25 years as the administrator of McGuire Memorial Home during a celebration of McGuire’s 50th anniversary on Friday, October 4.

Ashley Sitarik ’14 was named a 2013 NCEA Seton Scholar, receiving a scholarship based on her academic achievement and service. Ashley was nominated for the scholarship in conjunction with Ronald Wolf and the Maronda Foundation being honored with the NCEA’s 2013 Seton Award.

Merritt Donoghue ’13 was awarded the Mother Angela Award, OLSH’s most prestigious award, at the 2013 Honors Convocation.

TOR, Minister Provincial for the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus Province; Janet Escovitz, principal at St. Malachy School; Colleen Fulkerson, Ministry Designee and Chief Knowledge Officer for Felician Sisters Inc.; Jack Hinds, alumni parent and Vice President at Rohrich Automotive Group; Stephen Paul, Esq., law clerk for the Honorable Katherine B. Emery and the Court of Common Pleas of Washington County; and Dr. Sam Urick ’99, internal medicine physician with St. Clair Medical Services.

Cameron Johnson ’14 was named a National Achievement Scholar semifinalist, a scholarship competition for black students, based on his junior year PSAT scores.

OUR LADY OF THE SACRED HEART HIGH SCHOOL • 21

ALUMNI NEWS AND NOTES 1938

Sr. Mary Eligia Dworakowski and Sr. Ralph Marie Piontek celebrate their 75th anniversary of religious life this year. Both serve in prayer ministry in the OLSH convent.

Sr. Rene Procopio was featured on the cover of Allegheny West magazine last spring and in an article that shared her good works with the Mooncrest After School program and its positive impact on the community.

1943

1963

Sr. Rosemarie Tumicki celebrates her 70th year of religious life this year.

1952

Sr. Bernice Marie Fiedor was honored with The Bishop’s Medal of Honor on Sunday, October 13, for her exemplary service to the Diocese of Greensburg through her years of service at St. Anne’s Home in Greensburg. Sr. Bernice retired after 20 years as an administrator and continues to volunteer there today.

1962

Sr. Sharon Iacobucci is back in the Pittsburgh area after completing a six-year ministry as novice director in Enfield, CT. Sr. Sharon now serves as administrative assistant for Sr. Christopher and is director of ongoing formation for the Felician Sisters.

Sr. Mary Naomi Suba, Sr. Mary Charlene Ozanick and Sr. Mary Christopher Moore all celebrate their 50th jubilee of religious life in 2013. Sr. Naomi resides in the OLSH convent and currently serves as a database manager for the Our Lady of Hope Province. Sr. Charlene is currently serving as pastoral associate and director of religious education at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish in North Huntingdon, PA. Sr. Christopher continues to serve as provincial minister of the Our Lady of Hope Province of the Felician Sisters.

1988

The Class of 1988 celebrated its 25th Reunion this August with a Gateway Clipper Dance Cruise.

1995

Ashley Mary Collins is now working as an orthodontic dental assistant at Sherman Orthodontics.

1996

Michelle Mazur recently moved to a new home in Plum Boro.

1998

Susanna D’Andrea is enjoying life in Italy with her three children Leonardo, Lina, and Diego, and teaching English at local schools.

2000

2002

Erin Skvarca married Barrett Hamilton on September 21, 2013 in Pittsburgh with a lively reception at The Mansions on Fifth. Fellow ‘02 alum Jessica Zerishnek Sellman (pictured with Erin) was part of the bridal party, as were Jessica’s three children, Sarah, Zachariah, and Elizabeth (Erin’s goddaughter). Other OLSH alumni and alumni parents in attendance included Tom Chimenti and wife Nichole, Patty and Keith Zerishnek, and Larry and Joan Tomei. The happy couple plans to reside in Astoria, New York, and work in Manhattan for the foreseeable future.

2004

1963

The Class of 1963 celebrated their 50th reunion in June. The class enjoyed dinner at JW Halls on Friday; they met for lunch and a tour of the school on Saturday afternoon, and concluded their weekend with Mass and Brunch at the convent on Sunday.

22 • WWW.OLSH.ORG

Brendan Gallagher proposed to Heather Malvey on September 20, 2013. The couple is planning to set a wedding date soon.

Angela Anderson married Bryce White on September 14, 2013, in Honolulu, Hawaii. The reception was held aboard the USS Missouri, on which Angie serves as the event manager. The Whites will be relocating soon to Seattle, Washington.

Haley Lyons Erwin married Eric Polaski on May 26, 2013, at Indian Lake, PA. The couple had perfect weather for the outdoor wedding, and followed up the festivities later in the summer with a honeymoon in Punta Cana. Fellow OLSH alumnae Kalee LoFaso and Melisa Aykul Lewandowski were also in the bridal party. Haley is now working in the Supplies Division in Customer Service with McKesson Patient Care Solutions. Jamie (Hufnagel) Zyroll and husband Nick Zyroll welcomed their second baby boy, Eli Robert Zyroll, on July 30, 2013. Theresa Valenty Buettner and husband Matt welcomed their third child, Elijah Joseph, on July 25 weighing in at 8 lbs. 8 oz. and 21 inches long. Big twin sisters Hannah and Leah are enjoying singing him songs and cuddling him daily.

2007

1996

Joe Serkoch won a 2013 Mid Atlantic Regional Emmy Award from the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences as producer of the film The Cask of Amontillado, an adaptation of the Edgar Allan Poe short story. The film also won a 2012 Silver TELLY in the Education for Academic Use category. The movie is being sold to schools all over the country for American Literature classes. Plans are in the works to share Joe's film with OLSH students in a special way.

Things have changed since 1932! We're sure you have too! Send your news to alumni@olsh.org or visit the alumni section of the OLSH website to submit online.

TJ Gallant completed his first year of pharmacy school. Mallory (Praskovich) Hurley married Ed Hurley on August 17, 2013. Mallory is the current OLSH art teacher.

Alyssa Silvestri is now working as a Softlines Team Leader at Target.

2010

Alena Chetoka is currently modeling and had the opportunity to work with Sarah Jessica Parker during NYC Fashion Week.

A group of alumni, current students, parents, and friends of OLSH ran together and raised money for the Epilepsy Foundation's Fun Run 5K this summer in Pittsburgh. The Charger Running Club raised over $1,600 for the Foundation.

OUR LADY OF THE SACRED HEART HIGH SCHOOL • 23

Emily Jancart

he OLSH Community was devastated this summer with the news of the death of recent graduate, Emily Jancart ‘13 in a bicycle accident in Moon Township. Emily Jancart was a quiet, hardworking student who planned to study nursing in college. At OLSH, Emily was a member of SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions) and was involved in a number of faith-related activities. She attended World Youth Day in Madrid, and the Notre Dame Vision program, and volunteered at her church fish fries, donut Sundays, and as an altar server. Emily’s smile and quiet way of serving others will be remembered by all who knew her at OLSH, and students will pray for her in a special way at each school Mass throughout the year. St. James School and OLSH plan to work together to fund a scholarship in Emily’s memory.

In Memorium Virginia Caponecchi ‘44 June 28, 2013 Linda Cibula September 18, 2013 Mother-in-law of John Falbo ‘77 Paul Robert Donahue May 1, 2013 Father of Maureen (Donahue) Darby ‘79, Patsy (Donahue) Langston ’83, and James Donahue ‘85 Gina Focer September 26, 2013 Mother of Jessica (Focer) Holloway ’00 and Sam Focer ‘07 Alberto Fronzaglia August 11, 2013 Father of Sandra ’87 and Christina Fronzaglia ‘89 Sr. M. Claver Koziatek ‘43 June 24, 2013 Ellen (Holman) LaRocco Mother of Carol (LaRocco) Jones ‘84 Jacqueline J. Misterky Leaycraft ‘57 May 6, 2013 Hugo G. Palermo July 25, 2013 Father of Maria (Palermo) Gerstel ‘75 24 • WWW.OLSH.ORG

Where in the World

LSHighlights magazine traveled across the globe from Arizona to Vietnam. The question is: where in the world can you take OLSHighlights? Our readers live and travel across the country and around the world. Now it’s your chance to show us the places you live, work, and visit. Send a photo of yourself holding your OLSHighlights and a description of the location and why you are there to alumni@olsh.org. We can’t wait to see all the places you’ve been! 

OLSH students (left to right) Markus DeNapoli ’15, John Grimm ’15, Meghan Bayer ’14, Corinne Muha ’14, Jackie Mathews ’15, Samantha Spencer ’15, Jen Haseleu ’14, Andrew Cornetti ’16, and Buck Ziegler ’16 took OLSHighlights along on the school’s mission trip to Toledo, OH, with Catholic Heart Work Camp.

The members of the boys and girls track team show off OLSHighlights at states at Shippensburg University. The boys (who call themselves the "Wolfpack") 4x3200 relay team qualified, along with individual runners Stephen Haupt and Alyssa Wolf.

A Call for Contributors As we strive to enhance the quality and scope of the OLSHighlights magazine, we are forming a group of dedicated readers to help grow and strengthen this publication! In the coming issues we want to reach higher levels; we yearn to make OLSHighlights the best it can be. We want to engage more of the OLSH community in the OLSHighlights conversation. If you have a zest for OLSH’s mission and a passion for the written word – we invite you to get involved. Our goal is to vitalize OLSHighlights with engaging content, fresh ideas and consistent quality. Your participation will provide new perspectives, wisdom, and the necessary tools we need i n o r d e r t o make this publication more vibrant. Fall 2012

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OLSH Director of Communications & Constituent Relations, Jessica Cerchiaro, poses with OLSHighlights by the statue of John Harvard on the campus of Harvard University while in Boston for the Partners in Mission National Advancement Conference.

If you are interested in joining us in taking OLSHighlights to new levels, or would like to suggest a candidate, please email us at advancement@olsh. org. We look forward to connecting with you soon!

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A Magazine for the Constituents of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart High School

Making a Difference

since 1932

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Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Pittsburgh, PA Permit No. 1983

Our Lady of the Sacred Heart High School 1504 Woodcrest Avenue Coraopolis, PA 15108-3054

Upcoming Events* NOVEMBER 2013 16 Turkey Bingo 19 Ring Day 24-Dec. 12 Take a tag from the Giving Tree DECEMBER 2013 TBA Advent Night of Worship 17 Christmas Concert & Art Show 20-21 Christmas Play: "Despicable Me" 22 Christmas Semi-Formal Dance 23- Jan. 1 Christmas Break

FEBRUARY 2014 6 National College Fair 22 OLSH Legacy Gala, Hyatt Regency Pittsburgh Airport MARCH 2014 7-9 Spring Musical “The Wiz” 14-15 Spring Musical “The Wiz” *Dates are tentative

JANUARY 2014 2 Classes Resume 9-14 Midterms 22 March for Life, Washington, DC 27-31 Catholic Schools Week

Recycle this magazine Give your copy to a neighbor who is in grade school and help spread the word about OLSH.

For more information on these, or other upcoming events, visit www.olsh.org