We have celebrated countless accomplishments at Sacred Heart Schools recently. Certainly, we are immensely proud of our class of 2024, who earned over $30 million in scholarships, were accepted to 160 colleges and universities, and headed out into their bright futures grounded in the Ursuline Core Values of reverence, service, leadership, and community.
You’ll find so many examples of our exciting times on campus in this issue, including a summer of celebrations with our alumnae, and a fresh and fantastic start to the school year this autumn. Additionally, we thanked our generous donors at the Sacred Heart Society Dinner and celebrated the 2024 Laurel Award honoree, Mr. Joseph Dougherty. Katy Brown ’83 blessed us with a generous $1.5 million gift with the creation of the Katy Brown ’83 Endowed Global Hearts Travel Program.
There is so much to be thankful for, and I hope you share my joy with all the amazing things happening here on the Ursuline Campus.
Together in Heart, Dr. Karen McNay President, Sacred Heart Schools
Board 2024-2025
PRESIDENT
Christie Leigh Mueller Wells ’02
VICE PRESIDENT
Amy Helm Baker ’92
SECRETARY
Lauren Peter ‘10
If you are interested in giving back by joining the SHA Alumnae Board, please contact Megan Brumleve Theisen ’95 at mtheisen@shslou.org or 502.736.6408. To view all Board Members, visit sha.shslou.org/alumnae/
From the Principal
Greetings SHA community, Our first semester of learning at SHA flew by and was filled with unique learning opportunities, including extracurricular activities that took our students from the stage to the courts and to the world itself through international travel. We even brought home a couple of state championships in athletics!
In this tumultuous world we live in, I find comfort daily in our students as I watch them blossom into strong women of great faith and minds. I rest easy at night, knowing these young women will excel as Valkyries and as leaders.
May the holidays find you with family and friends, surrounded in the peace and joy of the season.
With gratitude, Dr. Tim Adams Principal, Sacred Heart Academy
ON THE COVER: Maggie Clines '07 (seated) and her sister, Colleen Clines '03, founders of the internationally renowned Anchal Project Photo credit: Clay Cook
1, 2024.
Greetings Valkyrie Sisters,
FROM THE
Alumnae Director
Megan Brumleve Theisen ‘95
What a fall it has been on the Ursuline Campus! A few of the highlights so far this academic year include a celebration of our campus’ 147th birthday on October 4th, SHA golf and soccer state titles, countless student service projects that inspire, a successful Open House, Revive the Ties, Career Day, Class Rep event, lunch and learns, student internships through the Jean Frazier Leadership Institute, Guys & Dolls at the Ursuline Art Center, retreats…oh, and we were named the BEST CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL IN LOUISVILLE and the BEST ALL-GIRLS HIGH SCHOOL IN KENTUCKY by Niche!
We were also excited to visit with our Heart of the Valkyrie award winners from 2023 and 2024 in this issue of HeartBeat. Erin White ’93 and Brittany Miller Edelen ’07 have provided amazing service to the SHA Alumnae Board and campus for many years. Brittany and Erin are but two examples of the commitment of our alumnae. It bears repeating that without the unending support of alumnae, SHA’s trajectory may have looked very different, but instead, you strengthen our Ursuline bonds by your humble service, nurturing your lifelong friendships, and showing up for our students when asked.
We recently welcomed our Class Reps back to campus and I was in awe of the Valkyries brought together in one room, representing seven decades of alumnae from the 1950s-2010s. With each passing year, we welcome another class of alumnae into the next chapter of our sisterhood, bound together by a love of learning and growth, a profound appreciation for our Ursuline Sisters of Louisville, and friendships that endure for a lifetime.
With strong leadership from our President Dr. Karen McNay and our Principal Dr. Tim Adams, a supportive administration, outstanding faculty and coaches, and a caring community of staff, it’s no surprise that the state of our alma mater is strong and getting stronger! Our doors are open, and we are eager to welcome our future Valkyries, and you, to experience the SHA difference.
We have so much to be proud of as alumnae, and I bear witness to a strength in our sisterhood that is hard to put into words. If it’s been a while since you’ve experienced all that makes Sacred Heart Academy so special, I encourage you to give me a call and I’ll show you around.
You too, will be proud of how your alma mater continues to help develop a community of compassionate leaders who are poised to take the world by storm.
With Heart, Megan Brumleve Theisen ‘95
UPCOMING EVENTS!
SHA Alumnae Awards
February 6, 2025 @ Bellarmine University
Naples Events
February 21, 2025
*Let us know if you're in the area.
SHS Interlude
March 1, 2025 @ Marriott Downtown Louisville
Alumnae Unite
April 8-10, 2025
Forever Valkyries Egg Hunt
April 12, 2025 @ Sacred Heart Schools
Amphitheater
Day at the Downs
April 30, 2025
Reunion Weekend
May 30 & 31, 2025 @ SHA
Golf Scramble
July 14, 2025 @ Audubon Country Club
If you have a new address or news to share or have a prayer request, please get in touch with Alumnae Director Megan Brumleve Theisen ’95 at mtheisen@shslou.org or 502.736.6408.
In a class of their own CLASS OF 2024 SUCCESS STORIES
• 168 graduates, 99% attending college
• Accepted into 164 unique colleges and universities
• 85% of graduates earned academic scholarships equaling over $30 million
• Three National Merit finalists
• 20 IB Diploma Candidates
• 22 Governor’s Scholar, School for the Arts and School for Entrepreneurs graduates
• 93 members of the National Honor Society (55% of the class)
• Performed over 24,000 hours of service, outside of school
• 52 students honored with Angeline Service Award for Service Honor Roll all four years
• 36 Frazier Fellows graduated with a Leadership Certificate of Distinction on their transcript
• 22 committed college athletes
• 13 KMEA Choral State Distinguished Vocalists
• 6 Scholastic Art and Writing Awards
STUDENT & FACULTY ACHIEVEMENTS
The SHA Choir toured and sang their way through Italy this summer. Twenty-five SHA students and led by Jill Schurman, sang in the Festival Corale Internazionale Di Roma at the Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri. SHA was among five US choirs chosen to participate.
Congratulations to 2025 National Merit Scholarship Semifinalist, SHA senior Allison Conliffe, and National Merit Commended Students Nicki Hasselo and Evie Hamm!
Since 1957, 253 Valkyries have been named National Merit Finalists.
Valkyrie travelers also visited Spain for a Spanish immersion trip with Ms. Mercado and Ms. Batiste. Qué maravilloso!
SHA dames and dudes took the stage for a raucous performance of Guys and Dolls at SHSA.
Congratulations to state-runners up Valkyrie field hockey!
The Golf team won their 13th state title, and second consecutive State Championship in October! The Valkyries swept the postseason, winning Region, Semi-state and State.
Alexis Loveless '25 was awarded the Governor's Service Award by Gov. Andy Beshear for her advocacy for heart health, CPR awareness, and AED access.
Twenty-four SHA student-athletes in the class of 2025 signed national letters of intent to continue their athletic careers in college, an unprecedented number of athletes for a fall signing at Sacred Heart!
The Valkyrie soccer team won their 8th state title--tied for the most in state history--after a decisive 3-1 win over Lexington Catholic in the 2024 KHSAA state championship game.
The Class of 2025 rock their new senior sweatshirts during Senior Sunrise!
SACRED HEART ACADEMY
Reunion Wekend2025
May 30 & 31, 2025
Celebrating Classes between 1965-2020 ending in 0 and 5
1975 – we can’t wait to celebrate your 50th!
FRIDAY, MAY 30 SATURDAY, MAY 31 REUNION WEEKEND TAILGATE RECEPTION
INDIVIDUAL CLASS REUNION PARTIES EVENING – TIMES VARY BY CLASS
Revive the Ties WITH THE SHA SISTERHOOD!
The annual Revive the Ties dinner brought together alumnae with daughters, granddaughters or great-granddaughters at Sacred Heart. A packed house enjoyed dinner at SHA, and Student Council president, Mary Shea Ballantine '25, and her mother, Mariam Zena Ballantine '83, spoke to attendees about their gratitude in receiving an Ursuline education.
More than 25% of our current Valkyries have a mother, grandmother or great-grandmother who attended Sacred Heart Academy, Angela Merici High School or Ursuline Academy-the three Ursuline-founded all-girls schools in Louisville. Even more share ties with current students, cousins, aunts and great-aunts who walked the halls of SHA before them. The branches of our family tree are strong and rooted in Ursuline tradition!
CAREER DAY
AND A SPECIAL VISIT WITH THE ANCHAL PROJECT’S MAGGIE CLINES ’07
Career Day 2024 at SHA welcomed 70 Sacred Heart alumnae who shared their professional experiences with juniors and seniors. We are so grateful to our Forever Valkyries--from the Class of 1958 to the Class of 2020--for returning home to SHA to help guide, teach, and mentor the next generation of Valkyrie leaders.
The morning kicked off with an inspirational address from Maggie Clines '07, COO and Creative Director of Anchal Project, as part of the Jean Frazier Leadership Institute program. Maggie and her sister, Colleen Clines ’03, founded the Anchal Project in 2010 to provide meaningful jobs for abused and marginalized women in India.
Maggie admitted that when she was in school, she wasn’t sure what her career path would be. She leaned on her artistic and design talents and studied design and architecture, but she wasn’t satisfied that she’d found her passion. A trip to India she took with her sister inspired them to launch the Anchal Project. Today, Anchal Project provides valuable skills training in textile production and fairwage employment to women. The holistic program includes education workshops, health services, and community benefits, fostering financial independence and creativity.
The Anchal artisans create award-wining handmade products that blend traditional techniques with eco-friendly methods, minimizing environmental impact and championing sustainability in the fashion industry. As COO & Creative Director, Maggie spearheads Anchal's design aesthetic and product development, and has successfully developed, designed, and grown Anchal’s brand into an internationally recognized organization.
Maggie encouraged students to seek their passions and to know that over time, those passions may evolve. She urged students to embrace the power of service and volunteer work, where you learn and polish your inner talents and empathy. Choosing a personal path is more about exploration and the discovery of what you love, and embracing unexpected opportunities may bring the greatest joy. She shared that she and her sister Colleen’s foundation from SHA impacted their career choices and guided them to making a meaningful difference for others in need.
Now, more than 15 years after the founding of the Anchal Project, the Clines sisters bond with artisans, customers, national brands, and followers who all share the beauty of being a part of something greater than themselves – a community that champions women’s empowerment and sisterhood.
Maggie reminded students that a Valkyrie is courageous always and urged students to go forth and experience life in many ways. Her sister, Colleen, also shared the message that, “My experience at SHA taught me that my voice mattered. I truly believe that we all have the power to create positive change in the world. Purpose serves as your guiding force and by staying connected to your ‘why’ you can create lasting change.”
The SHA juniors and seniors spent the rest of Career Day exploring their passions. Careers represented included professionals from dozens of fields including medicine, law, marketing and public relations, education, banking, real estate theatre, law enforcement and more. Juniors and seniors also participated in a college admissions and financial aid workshop with the University of Kentucky and Xavier University.
Leadership in Action with
LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE JEAN FRAZIER
AT SACRED HEART SCHOOLS
SHA students are busy experiencing the working world this year, thanks to The Charles Kane Family Internship program at Sacred Heart Academy, which is part of the Lucy Lee Helm ’75 Leadership Pillar in the Jean Frazier Leadership Institute. Students complete an internship for academic credit, both exploring a career path, and developing in-demand skills in a professional setting. In addition to their work, students interview a leader at their organization and reflect on their observations and leadership in a capstone presentation. Each internship is individualized to meet the intern’s and the worksite’s objectives.
The Charles Kane Family Internship program celebrated a 30% increase in summer interns this year, with fifty-three SHA students completing over 3,000 work hours in fortyfour organizations, including healthcare, business, law, engineering, and non-profit and government industries. Thirty percent of the Class of 2025 will graduate having completed an internship!
“Through my internship, I learned to say “YES” to hard things. I now know I want to go into neonatal neurology in the future,” said Nikki Hasselo ’25 (pictured left).
This fall, SHA launched the opportunity for students to intern during the school day. Sacred Heart senior Abby Francke (pictured at right) is completing her internship at Sacred Heart Model School as a teacher’s assistant. SHMS Level 3 teacher Ms. Lim says having Abby’s help is enormous. “Abby has not only brought fresh energy and enthusiasm but also shown remarkable leadership growth. Her ability to engage with the students and contribute to our learning environment has positively impacted the classroom dynamic. From sitting on the floor guiding students through research, to learning to gather data about student fluency and comprehension, she is embracing all aspects of the teaching profession with an open mind and heart," she said.
Audrey Smith ‘25 applied her writing skills in her work with the Louisville Center for Eating Disorders. "Audrey's writing skills are incredible and developed well beyond her years. She compiled an extensive literature review on a complex topic that clinicians will likely refer to if a patient ever presents with the symptoms,” said Abigail McCarthy, Research Coordinator with the Louisville Center for Eating Disorders.
Nia Franklin ’25 (left) said, "My internship at the University of Louisville Hospital’s Center for Women and Infants with a Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM) doctor was an incredible learning experience. Observing surgeries during Labor and Delivery and clinical visits allowed me to gain invaluable insights into patient care and the critical role of medical professionals in improving lives, especially women's health."
The second annual Sacred Heart Open was a huge success! This summer event has become one of the biggest fundraisers for Valkyrie Athletics, in addition to the Apple Tournament (field hockey), Braveheart Tournament (lacrosse), and the Valkyrie Invitational (cross country). Thanks to all the sponsors and golfers whose support will assist in renovating the fitness center for our student-athletes and upgrading the PA and sound system in the gym. We're already looking forward to next year's Sacred Heart Open on July 14, 2025!
SACRED HEART SOCIETY HONORS Joseph Dougherty WITH THE 2024 LAUREL AWARD
Sacred Heart Society members make significant investments to support the students at our four schools on the Ursuline Campus. Each year, we celebrate those kind hearts and award the prestigious Laurel Award to an individual whose efforts have truly made a difference for Sacred Heart Schools.
In early October, we gathered at the Olmsted to honor our 2024 Laurel Award recipient, Joseph Dougherty, CEO of Louisville Paving Company and former SHS Trustee.
The Laurel Award, established in 2002, celebrates a member of the SHS community whose commitment and dedication to our mission are both strong and far-reaching. The Laurel Award recognizes individuals whose contributions are deeply rooted in the values of Sacred Heart, demonstrating a breadth of support that impacts every aspect of our schools. Joseph Dougherty embodies the spirit of Sacred Heart, nurturing and strengthening our community through his devotion, service, and investment in the lasting success of our students.
The laurel tree has long been a part of Ursuline tradition and is a significant element of the Ursuline Coat of Arms. The laurel tree is strong, with deep roots and wide branches, much like the history of Sacred Heart Schools - and much like our many award winners - whose impact is lasting. Thank you, Joseph Dougherty, and all our treasured supporters, for your continued gifts to Sacred Heart Schools. We are blessed beyond measure by your generous spirits and giving hearts.
one heart
This October, we launched our inaugural "One Heart" parent Annual Fund campaign. The campaign featured powerful voices from across our community and we are excited to share that through One Heart, 111 Sacred Heart families generously raised over $82,000, helping propel our Annual Fund nearly $40,000 ahead of last year’s pace. These funds are essential, as the Annual Fund directly supports our students by enhancing programs and opportunities that tuition alone cannot cover.
As part of One Heart, we also had the privilege of interviewing a faculty member from each of Sacred Heart's schools to share their perspectives on the importance of these contributions. Hear from them below and see the impact your support is making!
Julia Means Taylor ’10
Sacred Heart Academy Teacher
At Sacred Heart Academy, we aim to inspire, empower, and transform our students, helping them broaden their worldviews through literature, leadership opportunities, and a commitment to service. Sacred Heart is about more than academics. Programs like JFLI, student ambassadors, and extracurriculars offer opportunities to develop leadership skills that carry students into college and beyond. Sacred Heart nurtures the whole person, cultivating compassion, confidence, and a drive to make a positive impact. Support for professional development helps teachers like me continuously evolve, bringing the best practices into the classroom.
Susan Snyder Sacred Heart Model School Teacher
At SHMS, we challenge our students to be inquirers and engaged citizens at every level. When I first joined the school 21 years ago, a colleague told me, “Here, you will teach students to make a difference in the world.” That insight has stayed with me. Even before we became an IB World School, we were inspiring students to make an impact, whether big or small. Since becoming part of the IB community, we have strengthened our mission, helping students connect across disciplines, think critically, and solve problems creatively.
Robin Hager Shea ’82 Sacred Heart Preschool Teacher
At Sacred Heart Preschool, learning goes beyond the classroom—it becomes an experience filled with joy, curiosity, and growth. I feel privileged to witness our young learners explore the world around them, discovering new things each day. Their wonder is a powerful reminder of the special role Sacred Heart plays in fostering not only academic development but also a deep sense of purpose and compassion in each child.
Beth Cassidy Sacred Heart School for the Arts Teacher
At SHSA, we believe the arts are key to nurturing compassionate, globallyminded leaders. Whether through theater, dance, or visual arts, our students learn empathy by exploring stories, emotions, and experiences beyond their own. The arts foster open-mindedness and collaboration, qualities that benefit them in all areas of life—from the stage to the classroom to future careers.
Our goal is for SHSA students to become kind, capable leaders who serve others in all they do, whether they’re tackling complex scenes or taking on real-world challenges.
If you’re interested in supporting our students through the Annual Fund or learning more about additional giving opportunities, please visit www.shslou.org/giving or reach out to our Director of Development, Brandi Kottkamp, at bkottkamp@shslou.org or (502) 736-6528. We’d love to connect with you and share how your support can make a difference!
With Gratitude
Alice Cowley and a gift for a lifetime
We often say students are “educated for life” on the Ursuline campus, which is a true testament to the many generations of families who choose to send their children to any – or all – of the campus schools.
Alice Cowley is a familiar face at SHS, through her large family’s many years being an integral “part of the Heart.” She recently generously committed a lasting gift to Sacred Heart Schools through a planned gift.
Planned giving is a unique way to leave a meaningful legacy. Alice has been a parent, grandparent, a volunteer, donor, and tireless board member throughout the nearly 40 years her family has orbited campus. Alice is a recipient of the Heart Award, SHMS Parent of the Year, and a dedicated member and former chair of the SHS Board of Trustees.
Alice was raised in Lexington, Kentucky, and knew nothing about SHA or the Ursuline Campus until she moved to Louisville with a burgeoning family. “I remember like yesterday coming to Angela Hall and meeting Sister Catherine from the Model School,” Alice recalled. “We just clicked. I loved the size and simplicity of Angela Hall in a smaller school like I had attended. In Sacred Heart Model School, I knew I wanted a solid education, I wanted values, and I got so much more than that here. I never looked back.”
Her six children – Shelby ’00, Alice ’02, Eleanor ’04, Maria ’05, Jack ’06 (SHMS) and Patty ‘08 – all attended Sacred Heart Model School and the girls, SHA. The family found their home on the Ursuline campus starting in 1987. Eleanor is now a teacher and field hockey coach at SHA, daughter Alice previously chaired the SHA Alumnae Board and Maria currently serves on the Alumnae Board. Today, the next generation is entering campus, with four grandchildren currently attending Sacred Heart Preschool.
As her children grew, Alice became more involved. Sr. Catherine asked her to serve on the SHMS finance committee, and from there, Alice found her own community on the Ursuline campus. “It kept morphing into committee after committee and I got to know people on campus. I was so grateful to be here and wanted to give back.”
During her time on the Board of Trustees, Alice witnessed a major transformation on campus, with the adding of new buildings, expanding all the schools’ offerings and amenities, and incredible growth. “The community sees a building going up, but you’re down in the weeds in the brain power of it all,” she said.
Alice Cowley with her grandchildren, many who are and will be the next generation of SHS students from the family.
Alice was inspired to give a lasting gift to Sacred Heart Schools for a simple reason. “It’s coming full circle for me,” she explained. “Planned giving is one way I can give going forward. I just think it's so important to keep it going for the whole community and it's one way that I can make a difference.”
“My gift comes from gratitude,” she added. “And my unending admiration for the Ursuline Sisters who gave their lives in service to these students. I can’t imagine our lives if we hadn’t chosen to send our children here. We would have missed so much as a family.”
As her children tee up the next generation of students at Sacred Heart Schools, Alice shared a message for her children and grandchildren – and any family who’s attended schools on Ursuline campus.
“Look back and think how your life changed because of your time here,” she said. “When something makes a difference in your life, I see it as an obligation to try to help moving forward. Think of what a difference this campus has made in our community. It happens here through a path of contentment, whether it’s through your activities, faith life, the way we treat others, and even the way we treat our environment. It’s all the things you can learn no matter where you are in life. You can always pick yourself up and be content with those things you learned here. That’s the lasting gift.”
To learn more about planned giving contact Tina Miller Kauffmann ’84, Vice President for Advancement at tkauffmann@shslou.org.
Photos courtesy: Kylene White
Eleanor Cowley Mitchell ’04, Alice Cowley ’02, Jack Cowley ’06 (SHMS), Shelby Cowley Byerley ’00, Maria Cowley Quinn ’05, Patty Cowley ’08.
With All Their Hearts
Reflections on SHA with our Heart of the Valkyrie Award-winners
Each year, the SHA Alumnae Board recognizes an alumna with the Heart of the Valkyrie award. The 2023 recipient was Erin White ’93 (left) and the 2024 recipient was Brittany Miller Edelen ’07 (right). The award is determined by one’s engagement with SHA, whether by attending events on campus, encouraging alumnae to support the SHA Annual Fund, and generally “showing up” for Sacred Heart when asked.
Alumnae Director Megan Brumleve Theisen ‘95 sat down with Erin and Brittany recently and together, they shared some thoughts about the joy in serving their alma mater.
Why do you choose to lend your time to the SHA Alumnae Board?
Brittany: “I lend my time to the board as an active way to give back to the school that gave me so much. I think SHA is the best of the best and greatly shaped the person I’ve become and my success as a business owner.”
Erin: “I was so honored - and surprised - when I was awarded the Heart of the Valkyrie award. I was shocked by the emotional response that I had when I learned that I had won - I never would have guessed that I would tear up like I did. I think that response is a manifestation of the love and dedication I still have for Sacred Heart, 30+ years since I graduated from the Academy.
Being on the SHA Alumnae Board provides so many opportunities for me to give back to the school I love. The Alumnae Awards honors our sisters and friends who are living the Ursuline Core Values every day. Interlude is a fun occasion to dress up and celebrate with alumnae and friends while raising money for all-four campus schools. Reunion weekends are a wonderful time to reconnect with dear friends and classmates, and see all the changes, improvements, and advancements on campus.
One of my favorite ways to give back is volunteering for Career Day. It warms my heart to speak with young women who are excited about all the possibilities their futures hold, and who are genuinely curious about what they can do to help make our community and world a better place. I always leave that morning inspired to redouble my efforts to live out the Ursuline Core Values both in my work, and in my life.”
What excites you about Sacred Heart Academy today and for future Valkyries?
Brittany: “The constant improvements to campus and additions to the curriculum have me so excited for the Valkyries of today. It greatly prepares each student for their future endeavors while keeping our foundation rooted in the Ursuline Core Values.”
Erin: “I am excited by all the opportunities today's Valkyries have. The amazing improvements to the art studios and science labs, the increased variety of clubs and activities that allow young women to explore new interests and find kindred spirits, and all of the programs to help students as they prepare for college and their careers beyond, including the IB Programme and AP classes – all of these add to the ever-evolving and improving Valkyrie experience. I am also proud of the progress that Sacred Heart has made in improving diversity on campus.”
Do you have a favorite memory of your time at SHA and as an alumna?
Brittany: “I have so many memories from my time at SHA, but one of my favorites was going undefeated and winning the state field hockey title my senior year. Those teammates are some of my best friends today and have continued to support me throughout life. My favorite memories as an alumna have been coming back to campus for Career Day and networking with fellow alums.”
Erin: “I am proud and thankful to be a Valkyrie. I was fortunate to attend SHA, and I am grateful for the sacrifices my parents made to give me that opportunity. Every day, I benefit from and rely on the education I received and the friendships that sprouted there, and I am honored to play even a small role in supporting generations of other young women as they learn and grow.
Sacred Heart's focus on the Ursuline Core Values of Reverence, Service, Leadership, and Community helps ensure that we will continue to see young women graduate from SHA moving forward in life empowered with the tools to do great things in their work, for their families, and for their communities.”
Thank you, Erin and Brittany, for your service to SHA! We are so happy you are Forever Valkyries!
The Honorable Audra Eckerle ’84
Elizabeth Ringo Farley ’89
HONORARY DIPLOMA
Colonel Mike Hardesty
Ruth Dilger Kelly ’66
VALKYRIE HALL OF FAME
Jackie Hafele ’10 • Hilary Kargl Pape ’11 • Kristen Henn Parkhurst ’09 • Nikki Hafele Shook ’10 SCAN THE
sha.shslou.org/alumnae-awards/
Sacred Heart announces the
KATY BROWN '83 ENDOWED GLOBAL HEARTS TRAVEL PROGRAM
Sacred Heart Academy proudly introduces the Katy Brown ’83 Endowed Global Hearts Travel Program, a unique initiative made possible by her generous $1.5 million gift - the largest gift to date from an alumna. This program will bolster SHA’s commitment to global travel by offering life-changing travel experiences for Sacred Heart’s students who may not have access to this invaluable educational experience. “I benefitted greatly from an opportunity to travel from Italy to England as a freshman in college,” said Katy. “I was the first person in my family to travel to Europe and it changed my whole mind set.”
Sacred Heart’s mission is to inspire students to become globallyminded, compassionate leaders; travel opportunities are an important element in that growth. Sacred Heart’s IB curriculum also calls for all students to view learning through a global lens.
This endowed program will enhance the present global travel program at SHA and allow students with financial needs to take advantage of these international experiences. The program's three pillars are global service and advocacy trips, educational and leadership opportunities, and Ursuline heritage journeys.
One SHA student served as a pilot for the program in 2024. Isabel Gonzalez traveled to Spain this summer with two of SHA’s world language teachers and a group of students, immersed in the culture and experiences of the Spanish people and Ursuline heritage. The group visited cathedrals, museums, restaurants, and more.
SHA already has four overseas trips planned for the 2024-25 academic year. The first will be a service trip to Belize with Hand in Hand Ministries during February's Winter Break. The second will be a Spring Break trip to Iceland advocating environmental education. The third will be a Spanish immersion trip to Costa Rica, and the final will be a trip to Greece to discover ancient history.
In addition to the Spanish Immersion trip last summer, SHA student trips traveled internationally to Italy for performing arts and to France, Belgium, and the Netherlands.
The Ursuline Connection
“...In Angela’s Footsteps”
On October 31, the Ursuline Campus celebrated the day 166 years ago when three Ursuline Sisters from Bavaria, Germany arrived in Louisville with just $22.50 among them to start a new foundation— the Ursuline Sisters of Louisville. Sisters Salesia Reitmeier, Pia Schoenhofer and Maximilllian Zwinger came at the request of Bishop Martin John Spalding to teach the children of German immigrants of Saint Martin of Tours parish. Sister Reitmeier, only 26, became the first mother superior of the congregation.
On September 25, Sacred Heart Model School celebrated 100 years as the model in education for students in grades JK through 8th grade. Students, faculty, and staff began the milestone day with Mass in the SHMS Gym, with Archbishop Shelton Fabre presiding. Later in the day, SHMS students, faculty and friends enjoyed a birthday party in the R. F. Joseph Amphitheater on Ursuline Campus. Students enjoyed cupcakes, a DJ, inflatable jumpies, and sang a special rendition of "Happy Birthday!” to the school they love!
Formation and Service
Three of the Model School’s past principals, Sister Catherine Franze, Dr. Mary Beth Bowling, and Dr. Michael Bratcher, joined the current principal, Leah Mullen, and Dr. Karen McNay, president of Sacred Heart Schools, for the celebration.
As we celebrate the Ursuline Core Values of Reverence, Service, Leadership and Community, we reflect on the enormous legacy of the Ursuline Sisters in Louisville. Every day, our students, faculty and staff honor the work of our brave founders.
Throughout the 2024-25 year, we are gathering for formation and reflection. This mindful practice brings together the administration, heads of schools, teachers, staff, and the Office of Catholic Identity and Ursuline Charism to tighten our knowledge of the work and legacy of the Ursuline Sisters of Louisville on our campus and beyond.
In August, as we launched the school year, all employees of Sacred Heart Schools gathered on campus to lend our hearts and hands to acts of service that assisted seven different community organizations, including Catholic Charities, Hope Scarves, the St. John Center, La Casita, ABLE Families, Water By Women, and Roo’s Wish.
As the year progresses, we meet regularly for prayer, reflection, service, and practices that help form us as individuals in the Ursuline Catholic tradition. All students on campus are immersed in educational and spiritual experiences, so they, too can grow and learn in the Ursuline tradition of St. Angela.
As a community of learners and leaders, we study the life of Christ, the life of St. Angela, and the charism of the Ursuline Sisters of Louisville. We grow in the contemplative love of God and the openness and eagerness to serve the needs of others. It is a legacy we treasure and look to the future for guidance...all in “Angela’s Footsteps.”
All Sacred Heart Schools employees gathered for Mass on Commissioning Day in August, along with service work to benefit seven community area nonprofits.
• 120 Backpacks filled with school supplies – Catholic Charities
• 107 Menstrual kits – La Casita
• 100 Men’s hygiene kits – St. John Center
• 60 Tie dyed t-shirts for our friends at ABLE Families in Kermit, WV
• Crocheted loops and socks for water filters – Water by Women
• Fleece-tied blankets – Roo’s Wish
• Hundreds of scarves tied with prayers and notes of support – Hope Scarves
IN Memory
Marilyn Hubbuch Allen ’50, mother of Mary Lynn Allen Finnegan ’72, Kathy Allen Clark ’74 and Ann Allen Ingram ’84, died April 21, 2024.
Maureen Kenny Amos ’55, died January 27, 2024.
Jeanne Foltz Blacker ’54, sister of Leslie Foltz Masterson ’60, died September 17, 2023.
Mary Wagner Byrne ’49, died July 17, 2024.
Gwendolyn Keal Curran ’44, mother of Dianne Curran ’66, died March 24, 2024.
Mairi Joyce Deddens ’50, died December 9, 2023.
Anne Discher ’48, died March 19, 2024.
Paulette “Polly” Dilger Ellsworth ’65, sister of Mary Dilger Bolin ’64 (dec), died April 23, 2024.
Mary Helen “Mimi” Wathen Dingman ’57, mother of Julie Dingman Evans ’86, sister of Fran Wathen Delaney ’52 and Margie Wathen Brand ’65, died October 6, 2024.
Elizabeth “Betty” Quesenberry Froning ’54, mother of Anne Froning Murphy ’77, Mary Froning Hagerman ’80, Nancy Froning White ’81, Sally Froning Riley ’86, and grandmother of Claire White ’07 and Grace Riley ’20, died April 10, 2024.
Carol Hayes ’67, died October 13, 2024.
Doris Eith Herrmann ’46, mother of Mary Herrmann Hazelip ’71 and grandmother of Laura Hazelip Johnston ’98 and Julie Hazelip Antrim ’01, died May 30, 2024.
Berta Philpot Hynes ’54, died December 2, 2023.
Jennifer Cartwright Kuhl ’85, mother of Sarah McCall Russell ’03 and Madeline McCall ’13, died June 1, 2024.
Sharon Richardson Kurtz ’76, sister of Kathy Richardson Davis ’71 and Judy Richardson Ford ’78, died July 24, 2023.
Carolyn Heim LaChance ’54, sister of Mary Joyce Heim Storch ’61, died July 31, 2024.
Valla Buechel Lynn ’55, sister of Patti Buechel Long ’60 and Carolyn Buechel Wilson ’63, died March 12, 2024.
Sr. Eileen Mary Meyer SCN, ’44, sister of Anna Catherine Meyer ’47 and Imelda Meyer Kargl ’51, died May 22, 2024.
Jaclyn Parton ’10, sister of Julianne Parton Ellis ’04, died May 24, 2024.
Lucy Thiemann Pinto ’49, mother of Claudia Pinto Crone ’75, Geralyn Pinto Harrod ’78, Marla Pinto Couch ’80, Adele Pinto Ryan ’83 and grandmother of Lilly Couch ’16 and Lucy Couch ’18, died June 9, 2024.
We continue to honor the lives of those SHA community members who have lost a loved one. Please visit our website via this QR code to view the full listing of Family Memorials.
Sr. Loretta Guenther OSU, ’52
May 25, 1934—October 7, 2024
Ursuline Sister of Louisville Loretta Guenther, O.S.U. age 90, died in the 72nd year of her religious life on October 7, 2024, at Nazareth Home-Clifton. One of 10 children and a native of Louisville, Kentucky, Wilhelmina Pauline (her baptismal name) attended St. Elizabeth parish school, where she was taught by the Ursulines. She attended Sacred Heart Academy as an aspirant, and she entered the Ursulines in 1952 at age 18.
Sister Loretta served as a cook at several convents, schools, the Ursuline Motherhouse infirmary kitchen, and finally, St. Joseph’s Children’s Home, where she served as a houseparent until her retirement in 2010, a total of 36 years.
In 2000, Sister Loretta was honored by the St. Joseph Catholic Orphan Society as the first recipient of the “St. Joseph-Ursuline Award,” and the Home later established a fund in her name to support education and expenses for the children that reside there. In 2023, St. Joseph Children’s Home named their chapel in honor of Sr. Loretta for her years of service, and a plaque has a quote from her, “It’s the simplicity, the love that children have that makes them so special. I was so blessed to be at St. Joseph because I know children are close to God.”
Sister Loretta is the daughter of the late Albert and Wilhelmina Pauline Guenther. She is survived by her brother-in-law, Carl Lawrence; many nieces and nephews, great-nieces and nephews; as well as her community of Ursuline Sisters and Associates.
Mary Zoeller Powell ’56, mother of Grace Powell Payne ’81, died April 15, 2024.
Kathy Crowley Powers ’57, died February 12, 2024.
Mildred Kleine-Kracht Ransdell ’49, mother of Jean Ransdell Johnson ’76, Angela Ransdell Traylor ’79, Linda Ransdell Ryan ’79, grandmother of Amber Dunlap Peter ’03 and sister of Paula Kleine-Kracht OSU ’64, died September 19, 2024.
Phyllis Newfield Ridge ’62, mother of Laura Ridge Webb ’86 and Amy Ridge Reed ’90, died September 14, 2024.
Christi Nall Roby ’86, died July 30, 2024.
Mary Adele Casper Rowan ’52, mother of Diane Walker Sutton ’75, grandmother of Jane Walker Rolfe ’07 and Catherine Walker ’12, died October 7, 2024.
Colleen Wickham Sparks ’57, sister of Mary Ellen Wickham Harrison ’54, died September 27, 2024.
Ellen Fearneyhough Stanard ’69, died September 21, 2024.
Dorothy “Dottie” Baker Stivers ’48, mother of Ann Stivers ’74, Mary Stivers ’75, Sarah Stivers Felz ’75 and grandmother of Mary Katherine Felz Hammond ’08, died August 23, 2023.
Barbara Ann Koenig Thomas ’53, mother of LeeAnn Thomas O’Daniel ’72 and sister of Betty Koenig Zoeller ’49 (dec), died September 10, 2024.
Sarah Wagner ’96, daughter of Margaret Harpring Wagner ’68, died October 13, 2024.
Beverly Rogers Wilson ’59, mother of Erin Brown Faulkner ’84 (dec), grandmother of Lillian Faulkner ’16, Mary Rose Faulkner ’19, Isabelle Faulkner ’22 and sister of Bonnie Rogers Hudson ’62, died August 1, 2024.
Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.
Bonna Holzheimer Zion ’62, sister of Ann Holzheimer Sullivan ’56, Mary Holzheimer Cissell ’59 and Dezi Holzheimer Jackson ’72, died June 10, 2024.
If you would like to make a gift in memory of a classmate, family member or classmate’s family member, please call 502.896.8681.
You may also send a check, payable to “Sacred Heart Academy” to Sacred Heart Schools Office of Institutional Advancement 3115 Lexington Road Louisville, KY 40206
3175
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Sacred Heart Schools is a proud member of the Ursuline Education Network
