MAGAZiNe School of the holy child rye | SPriNG 2014
Welcome to
Head of School William C. Hambleton, Ed.D. + plus INSTALLATION MASS OF DR. HAMBLETON GROUNDBREAKING CEREMONY FOR NEW FACILITIES
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School of the holy child rye | SPriNG 2014
h eAd of S ch ool 20 1 3-2 0 14 William C. Hambleton, Ed.D. B oArd of trUSt eeS 2 0 13- 2 014 Alfred F. Kelly, Jr., Chair Joseph B. Kennedy, Vice Chair Nadine E. Rote, Vice Chair Sr. Nancy Callahan, SHCJ ’51, Secretary Thomas E. Flanagan, Treasurer Valerie A. Brown Domenick Ciaccia Anthony Cicileo Reverend Thomas E. Collins Douglas DeStaebler Parker P. Drew Peter S. Duncan Kimberly Gillespie Robert D. Manfred, Esq. Roseann McSorley C. Erin McGillicuddy Mills ’77 Roderick O’Connor Eavan O’Driscoll Keith Pagnani, Esq. Sr. Jeanne Ronzani, SHCJ Christy Schwarz Schultze ’86 Judithann H. Thayer
on the cover William C. Hambleton, Ed.D. meets with Upper School Students
features coMMUNity
cAPitAl cAMPAiGN
AlUMNAe
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Installation Mass
Groundbreaking Ceremony
Alumnae Working at their Alma Mater
At his Installation Mass, Head of School William C. Hambleton, Ed.D., reflects on the presence of God in our lives, and encourages students to take inspiration from our founder, Cornelia Connelly with “actions, not words.”
School of the Holy Child celebrated a significant milestone in our 110-year history this spring at our Groundbreaking Ceremony for the new Field House, state-ofthe-art Theatre, and E.E. Ford Workshop.
Eleven alumnae share insight about what inspired them to return to Holy Child as professionals, and why their Alma Mater is much more than a school.
John K. Mara, Esq., Trustee Emeritus de V eloPM eNt offic e 201 3 -20 1 4 Brooke Gadasi Director of Development Deirdre O’Brien ’93 Director of Annual Giving and Alumnae Relations Toni Santangelo Archibald ’76 Director of Special Events & Parent Liaison Kristen Parrot Mulvoy ’91 Gala and Auction Coordinator Cathy S. Nolan Director of Communications Iris Castillo Development Associate & Alumnae Relations Coordinator Photographers: Cover: Chip Riegel Photography Bob Buchanan Photography JoAnn Cancro Photography Chip Riegel Photography Rye Sports Photography Michelle Sherry Design:
© White Communications, Inc., Tuxedo, NY
The mission of School of the Holy Child is to develop “women of conscience and action.” An all-girls, Catholic, independent, college-preparatory school for grades 5-12, the School is guided by the educational philosophy of Cornelia Connelly, the founder of the Society of the Holy Child Jesus, and her dedication to “joy in teaching and joy in learning.” Accomplished and dedicated faculty members foster the spiritual development, individual talents and interests of each student. This is realized through rigorous and comprehensive academic, arts, athletics, service and global programs. Holy Child graduates are prepared for the innovative and critical thought necessary in a diverse, interconnected society.
in this issue 02 08 10 16
Message from the Head of School In the Presence of Greatness Rock the Mission
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2013 NAIS Student Diversity Leadership/ People of Color Conference
the clASSrooM
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Middle School Report Upper School Report
AroUNd cAMPUS
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Homecoming Weekend 2013
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reUNioN SPirit
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Reunion 2013
dePArtMeNtS
30 32 34 38 42 44
Arts
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Athletics Spiritual Pursuits Class Notes Faculty In Memoriam
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Message from the Head of School >>
moments of greatness As I reflect upon the first months of the 2013-2014
school year, I am so grateful to the Holy Child community for the welcoming embrace that I have received as the new Head of School. At our Annual Dinner in the fall, I addressed our parent population and expressed my conviction that the core of our work as educators is to make “the ask for greatness.” Of all of the many duties that fill our days, our most compelling task is to ask our students to be great. Having spent several months getting to know our students, I have already seen so many moments of greatness. From the state soccer championship to prestigious college acceptances to profound chapel reflections, as well as subtle acts of kindness in our hallways and classrooms, our young women are amazing! As we watch their lives unfold from our privileged viewpoint, I have no doubt that they are answering the call to greatness. For me personally, one of the most defining moments of these first months was my Installation Mass in October. It was a humbling
experience for which I am deeply grateful. I was honored to address our school families during the liturgy and to encourage our students to confidently walk their path in the presence of God. I share my remarks from the Installation ceremony in this issue of Glimpses, as they echo the words of our founder, Cornelia Connelly. “At the beginning of each action, place yourself in the presence of God, and offer it to Him with a pure intention.” I drew inspiration from Cornelia’s wisdom that evening, and I continue to do so as I walk through the doors of our school every day.
William c. hambleton, Ed. D.
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feature story
Remarks from the
Installation Ceremony
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Let us remember that we are in the presence of God. These words should be very familiar. At School of the Holy Child, we often speak these words before prayer. The benefit of that type of repetition is that the words are seared in our memory and become a touchstone for our experiences. The danger, of course, in that type of repetition is that the words become rote, and, at some point, we cease to reflect on their deeper meaning. Thus, I would like to take just a few moments now to reflect on the presence of God in our lives.
My daughter attends nursery school and has come to love drawing. At home, she spends a lot of time sitting at her kiddie table, drawing pictures. The other week I asked her what she was drawing and she said, “God.” I thought, “This is great.” But, I said to her, “You know, honey, nobody knows what God looks like.” She looked up at me and said confidently, “Oh…well, then I will show them my picture.” My first thought was that she was overreaching a bit. But, then I thought, “How tremendous it would be to have such confidence in the presence of God in your life that you could show the world what God looks like.” It seems to me that this is really
what we mean when we talk about putting ourselves in the presence of God. As I think about that recent experience in my life as a father, I am reminded of an experience several years ago in my life as a young teacher. It was in my second year of teaching, and I was at a basketball game at school over the Christmas break. I was sitting with a young man whom I had taught during my first year as a teacher when he was a senior. At that point, he had gone away to college, but was back in town continued
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Remarks from the
Installation Ceremony for the holidays. He was telling me about his college experience, and I asked him what he liked best about college. To my surprise he said, “Being away from home.” He could tell that I was a little taken aback by his response and then, unsolicited, he began to tell me about what life was like for him at home when he was in high school. He told me that his father was an alcoholic and that he used to beat him up when he had too much to drink. I was stunned, mostly because I had no idea. This young man was an A student and a varsity athlete. He was heavily involved in campus ministry and was one of the friendliest kids you would ever meet. I said to him that I would have never guessed what was happening, and I asked him how he was able to cope with that…and not just cope, but excel at everything he did. I have always remembered his response. He said that he always believed that God was present, “even if only in the other room protecting my little brother.” Maybe this type of compromised confidence is also what we mean when we talk about being in the presence of God. Clearly, the more we experience in life, the more complicated our understanding of the presence of God becomes. I am certainly in no position to discourse to you on why bad things happen to good people. I cannot explain how we can be in the presence of God and yet some people are born into wealth and freedom and others are born into poverty and oppression. I simply do not know, but I would presume to share something that I have come to believe about the presence of God. It is that our experience of the presence of God in our lives is directly related to our presence in the life of the world. Our presence in the world is an ongoing and ever-evolving dialogue with our fellow humanity. I am convinced that,
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the path of your life…but YOU. Instead of pondering the meaning of life, Cornelia Connelly found the courage within herself to make her life meaningful. “Actions, not words.” And therein lies her glory.
be present to the world
...walk your path in life with tenacity and boldness and faithfulness and joy.
of all of the things our students learn at Holy Child, they certainly learn to find their voice in that critical conversation. The founder of the Society of the Holy Child of Jesus, Cornelia Connelly, made sure that her voice was heard in the world. Through tremendous adversity, in the context of her unorthodox and challenging life, she joyfully walked her path in the presence of God and in service to the young women who attended her schools. I am speaking to our students now, to the young women of Holy Child. I encourage you to reflect on the life of Cornelia Connelly. Like her, I encourage you not to allow the events and circumstances that unfold around you to define your life. Because there will be pressures that will attempt to persuade you and cajole you and coerce you and compel you, but no one can decide what your life will be… but YOU. You will find that the world will never have a shortage of voices and opinions and positions and prerogatives and perspectives, but no one can speak your mind…but YOU. You are smart and talented and witty and articulate young women, and, accordingly, people and institutions and organizations will seek you out to fight for their causes and stand up for their beliefs, but no one can walk
Clearly, the presence of God is more than a quiet moment before a prayer. It is an animating force that empowers us to embrace our own identity and that demands of us that we BE PRESENT TO THE WORLD…that we walk our path in life with tenacity and boldness and faithfulness and joy. This is certainly what we mean when we talk about the presence of God. And, if you do walk your path with tenacity and boldness and faithfulness and joy, you will not need to see my daughter’s drawing, because it is on that path that you will find the face of God.
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1 | Maggie Welsh ’14 presents one of the gifts made for dr. hambleton’s installation Mass. 2 | lila Pfohl ’17, caroline
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Gillespie ’15, Brooke Bellamy ’21, and courtney Mulvoy ’21 attend dr. hambleton’s installation Mass and reception.
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3 | chioma Nwana ’14, imani Sherrill ’14, ray Nelson, US faculty, Jada-iman Williams ’14, elizabeth lolis ‘14.
4 | hannah cleary ’18, cara traficante ’19, lucy egler ’20, lily dennis ‘15.
5 | former Board chair and
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parent, Bernadette Wade, Bill hambleton, former parent and faculty member, Kathy civetta, and parent and trustee, Kim Gillespie.
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6 | Board chair, Al Kelly, director of the holy child Network Schools, Sr. eileen Mcdevitt, ShcJ, American Province leader, Sr. Mary Ann Buckley, ShcJ, Bill hambleton, trustee and former head of School, Sr. Jeanne ronzani, ShcJ, and trustee, rev. thomas collins.
7 | Sisters of the holy child Jesus.
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8 | Board Vice co-chair,
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Joe Kennedy, former trustee Barbara Santangelo, Bill hambleton, Al Kelly, and Board Vice co-chair, Nadine rote.
9 | Nicole ferrando ’19, Gus Pendergast ’14, christina hogan ’14 and Phoebe lynch ’16 with Bill hambleton.
10 | Parents, chessie Williams-Bather, and cheroxie King.
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2 1 | dr. hambleton and staff enjoy time together at a basketball game after school. Â 2 | dr. hambleton with Upper School students.
3 | fifth graders with dr. hambleton after they completed the banner that would be used for his installation Mass.
4 | dr. hambleton and his daughter, reagan, at school.
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the core of our work Having spent several months getting
to know our students, I have already seen so many moments of greatness. —Bill Hambleton, Head of School
dr. hambleton chats with Julia Valentino ’21 before she heads to class.
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In the Presence of >>
GREATNESS By Michael Clancy, Science Teacher and Grade 12 Dean
studying whale populations and behaviors As a grateful recipient of the Class of 2007 Summer Sabbatical, I journeyed to the
southwest corner of Costa Rica last August to take part in an Earthwatch Institute research project. Researchers there are systematically assessing the population sizes and structures of three whale species in the area in an effort to deepen their understanding of cetacean distribution and habitat preferences. I had two objectives for this trip. First, I wanted to learn more about humpback whales and dolphins—two marine mammals my seventh grade science students and I expect to encounter during our annual spring trip to Cape Cod. Second, I was eager to sharpen my field research protocols so that my students have a firm grasp of how to record scientific data in a clear, logical, and objective manner. For ten days in Golfo Dulce, I documented the behavior of three cetacean species: the humpback whale, pantropical spotted dolphin, and bottlenose dolphin. This was my first experience with marine research. I worked alongside four scientists as they studied whale populations and behaviors, with the intent of providing data to the Costa Rican government as it develops conservation plans to
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protect marine biodiversity in the gulf. Spending over six hours on the water each day, we systematically recorded whale sightings, locations, and behaviors. Prior to this trip, my whale watching took place in the North Atlantic and North Pacific Oceans, where several species spend the summers feeding. In Golfo Dulce, I witnessed courting behaviors of humpback whales for the first time. What a violent affair! Repeatedly, two or three males would clash aggressively in competition for a female, ramming one another and slapping with their massive flukes. It was a heartstopping moment when three battling, 25-ton bulls suddenly surfaced just off the stern of our 27-foot boat, passing within touching distance. As they continued on, I felt
r e S e A r c h
I had been in the presence of the most magnificent creatures on the planet. I hope my students will feel the same. As a result of my work in Golfo Dulce, I developed a better understanding of how scientists systematically record data in the field. I intend to share this wisdom with my students as we prepare for our trip. When we arrive in Cape Cod this year, I expect Holy Child students to be the most knowledgeable and well-prepared young researchers on the Massachusetts peninsula.
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“ROCK THE Foundation Stones— Building Upon Our Mission By Kathleen Civetta, Middle School Science Teacher, Mission Effectiveness Chair
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MISSION” This is the time to ask for great things: faith, zeal, generosity, humility, charity. —Cornelia Connelly Living our mission in school, the larger community, and globally is what makes our school holy, special, and unique. Over the past year, School of the Holy Child, Rye welcomed the opportunity to reflect upon and recommit to the goals and mission of the Network of Holy Child Schools, founded by Cornelia Connelly. Last spring, we began a Mission Effectiveness self-study evaluation process that engaged our entire community - students, faculty, staff, administrators, parents, and board members - in the practice of addressing and evaluating how we are living our mission. Throughout the process, we celebrated the uniqueness and value of a Holy Child education. We have grown closer as a community and more committed to excellence as a result. “Never have I been more affirmed that our school and its board are deeply rooted in the mission and goals of the Society than after going through the Mission Effectiveness self-study process with such a knowledgeable and dedicated committee,” parent, trustee and Mission Effectiveness Board representative, Kimberly Gillespie said. “Cornelia Connelly shines from every corner of our school because we are rooted in her tradition and know what she would expect of each member of our community. Equally important to the process was the identification of focus areas where we can continue to enrich and improve our community,” Kim added.
During the Mission Effectiveness process, members of our school community joined together to develop initiatives to strengthen our commitment to the goals and mission. In September, SHC, Rye kicked off the “Foundation Stones—Building Upon Our Mission” campaign to bring deeper awareness of our mission and goals. Central to the campaign is our “Rock the Mission” initiative, in which members of our community transcribe onto small stones the words they feel best describe how we live our mission. Students in the “Green Thumbs” garden club embraced the campaign by decorating a wheelbarrow that is used to collect the stones. The “Rock the Mission” wheelbarrow has traveled to numerous school events, including Homecoming, the Middle School Fun Run, and the Library Luncheon and Boutique. It currently rests in the school lobby, where it welcomes the addition of new stones daily.
Field House foundation, and our new facility will forever rest upon words that convey what we all believe in as a School of the Holy Child. “It is only a community as deeply dedicated and devoted as ours is to the goals and mission of the Society, that can gain so much from this process. We will continue to live our mission, and build a school community that produces exceptional young women,” parent and trustee, Kimberly Gillespie said. This has been a significant year for our school. We have experienced substantial growth and change in a short period of time. Although our formal Mission Effectiveness process will conclude at the end of our school year, we now stand poised to carry on our mission joyfully, with renewed vigor and strength.
In addition, fifth grade students used the mission reflective words to prepare a school banner that led the procession into church at Dr. Hambleton’s Installation Mass in October. “Rock the Mission” wristbands were created and distributed to celebrate the mission at school-wide events, such as the AllSchool Pep Rally. One of the most extraordinary moments of our “Foundation Stones— Building Upon Our Mission” campaign was the day our school community joined together to break ground on our free-standing Field House. We look forward to spring, when our “Rock the Mission” stones will be added to the
Rock the Mission stones will be added to the Field House foundation. Our new facility will forever rest upon words that convey what we all believe in as a School of the Holy Child.
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feature story
School of the Holy Child Breaks Ground on
Above photo, back row, left to right: Vice chair of the Board of trustees, Joseph B. Kennedy; Vice chair of the Board of trustees, Nadine e. rote; city of rye councilwoman, Past Parent and former trustee Julie Killian; town of harrison Supervisor/Mayor, ron Belmont; deputy county executive, Past Parent and former trustee, Kevin Plunkett; trustee and capital campaign co-chair, domenick ciaccia; chair of the Board of trustees, Alfred f. Kelly, Jr.; head of School, William c. hambleton, ed.d.; former trustee and capital campaign co-chair, Joe houlihan.
front row, left to right: Student Government members: elizabeth hasfal ’19, carly Pace ’14, and Kiernan Pagnani ’14.
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New Facilities By Brooke Gadasi, Director of Development
“remember that it is not sufficient to have begun well, you must also persevere with courage and finish with resolution.” — Cornelia Connelly Thanks to the generosity of over 120 donors, School of the Holy Child is nearing completion of the largest capital campaign in the school’s history. To date over $5.75 million has been raised toward our $6 million campaign goal. On March 6, 2014, with our students, trustees, families, friends and local dignitaries in attendance, Holy Child hosted a Groundbreaking Ceremony for the construction of the new Field House, state-of-the-art Theatre and E.E. Ford Workshop.“We have a long tradition of offering an outstanding, forward-thinking learning environment at School of the Holy Child,” Chair of the Board of Trustees, Alfred F. Kelly, Jr. said.
“The new facilities will enhance our academic, athletic and arts programs and will add significantly to the profile of this unique school. We all look forward to the day we cut the ribbon for the Field House and fill the seats in the new Theatre,” Mr. Kelly added. The Campus Master Plan includes a 22,000 square-foot Field House featuring: • A 9,700 square-foot gymnasium with two full-size courts • Locker rooms • Office space for Athletics/Physical Education staff • An athletic training room • A weight and fitness room • A dance and movement studio • A student commons area The design plans allows for add-on features in the future. Significant improvements will also be made to Ross field. After the completion of the new Field House, our current multi-purpose gymnasium will be converted into theatre space for music, dance and drama productions, liturgies and assemblies. The new 400-seat Theatre will include: • A full stage • State-of-the-art lighting and sound equipment • Dedicated space for music, dance, drama and other programs • Dressing rooms • Wardrobe storage
director of Athletics, Amy Pare; head of the Middle School, colleen Pettus; head of the Upper School, colm MacMahon; head of School, Bill hambleton; director of development, Brooke Gadasi; and director of the Arts, Kim calhoun.
and curriculum,” commented Trustee Domenick Ciaccia, who co-chaired the Capital Campaign Committee with former Trustee, Joe Houlihan. “With a state-of-the-art Field House and new Theatre, Holy Child will provide one of the most outstanding educational settings in the region, where students will continue to perform and compete at the highest level. We are proud to be playing a part in Holy Child’s continuing success,” Joe Houlihan added. trustee, Sr. Nancy callahan, ShcJ, ’51 provides the Groundbreaking Blessing.
“The new facilities better reflect the outstanding athletic and artistic accomplishments of our young women and will support deeper development of critical intellectual and physical skills,” Head of School, William C. Hambleton, Ed.D. said. “Thanks to the vision and dedication of our Board of Trustees and Capital Campaign Committee, our new facilities will enable us to expand our innovative programs for the students of today and tomorrow,” Dr. Hambleton said. The Campus Master Plan also calls for the creation of the E.E. Ford Workshop, which will enhance the hands-on application of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math (STEAM) education at Holy Child, and will include a workshop for woodworking, computer-assisted design, 3-D printing, circuit and architectural design. “The Groundbreaking Ceremony marked the culmination of a multi-year planning process that evaluated the strengths of Holy Child and carefully considered the future program
To learn more about this exciting milestone for Holy Child, please contact Brooke Gadasi, Director of Development, at 914-967-5622 ext. 225 or visit our website at www.holychildrye.org
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feature story
dr. hambleton recently hosted a reception at his home for alumnae working at holy child.
ALUMNAE WORKING at
SCHOOL of the HOLY CHILD By Deirdre O’Brien, ‘93 Director of Annual Giving and Alumnae Relations
As the new Director of Annual Giving and Alumnae Relations, I recently reflected on the profound impact the Holy Child community has had on my life: spiritually, personally and professionally. As I began to talk to other alumnae who work at our school, it struck me that despite different class years and experiences, we were all similarly drawn back to our Alma Mater. Currently, there are eleven alumnae working at Holy Child in various capacities. It poses an interesting question, “What was it about each person's experience as a student that drew her back to her Alma Mater?” For me, Holy Child embodies the place where I felt nurtured and safe, but, at the same time, challenged and encouraged to take risks. At Holy Child, I began to develop a strong sense of justice and learned to have compassion for all human beings. It was an environment where I was inspired to give a voice to the voiceless and to advocate on behalf of those less fortunate. I graduated as a self-aware, confident, adventurous young woman who followed her dream to become an international human rights lawyer. In pursuing my dream, I lived in Bosnia and Northern Ireland working on victims rights. During that time, I was fortunate to be able to travel extensively throughout Europe. Now that I am back at Holy Child, I fully comprehend the saying, “things in life come full circle.” I feel so at home working within a community that encourages a global perspective and believes in the mission of empowering girls to become women of conscience and action. The insight shared by my fellow alumnae speaks to why Holy Child is so much more than a school.
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AliNA troyA AqUilAto ’00, Religious Studies Department Chair—My favorite things about being a student at Holy Child were the small classes, the close relationships between students and faculty, the balance between challenging academics and fun activities, and, of course, the friendships I formed with people who are still my best friends today. These qualities are part of the unique tradition of our school. It is something intangible. I knew that if I was going to pursue a career as a teacher, there would be no better place to work than at the school I already knew as home. I love that I can be part of the same tradition and help a younger generation to experience the same things. Much of the building has been renovated, new programs were added and technology upgraded, but the spirit is still the same. Students are still encouraged to strive academically, socially, and in their personal character. I know that the friendships formed in our building are not just among the students, but among the adults as well.
toNi SANtANGelo ArchiBAld ’76, Director of Special Events & Parent Liaison—I have always considered Holy Child part of my FAMILY. That is what drew me back here as an adult, initially working with Sr. Anna Daly on the Alumnae Board, later as a trustee and finally as an administrator in 2004. For me, it is that special sense of warmth and caring, as well as being a part of an organization that VALUES individuals, while working toward the goal of “educating young women of conscience and action” that makes Holy Child exceptional.
JAcqUeliNe ciAcciA ’06, Assistant Director of Admission—The opportunity to work in the Admission Office drew me back to Holy Child. Working closely with prospective families throughout the admission process and sharing my experiences as a student is extremely fulfilling. The strong relationships with teachers, supportive and challenging curriculum and warm community were important aspects of the school for me and continue to be highlights of a Holy Child education. I am always happy to share with prospective families how the school has embraced these qualities and continues to expand opportunities for students.
K N o W l e d G e
chriStiNe fArrell ’05, Mathematics Teacher (Middle and Upper School)—Holy Child develops strong, confident women. I benefited greatly from this supportive environment. I want to share the confidence and academic strength I learned from Holy Child with its current students, especially in its new STEAM programs.
KAtheryN lANGStiNe GAZSo ’94, English Department Chair—Many of the teachers I had demonstrated a genuine concern for the development of the SHC students— they encouraged us to engage in intellectual conversations and to examine our values on a regular basis (even if we didn't realize it or appreciate it at the time). Holy Child taught me the importance of “actions, not words.” More than anything, my years at Holy Child developed my confidence and sense of self. SHC's commitment to the personal, intellectual, emotional, and moral development of its students pulled me back. I wanted to work in an environment that encouraged students to be the best versions of themselves, while also focusing on values such as integrity and justice.
MoNiqUe GordoN ’06, Library Clerk— I came back to work at Holy Child because of the experiences I had here during my impressionable teen years. I wanted to give back and help girls get the same things I got from the school: a sense of community, friendship and sisterhood; a home away from home, a place to grow and try new things without fear. Most of a person’s day is spent away from home. It is nice to work at a place where you feel as if you are with your extended family. That is how I felt about Holy Child as a student and the reason why I wanted to return.
KriSteN PArrott MUlVoy ’91, Gala and Auction Coordinator—Holy Child has always been a special place for me. The friendships that I formed here more than 25 years ago are still thriving. This speaks so highly of the relationships built within the Holy Child community. I am so fortunate to be working at the school as my daughter, Courtney, begins her Holy Child experience. The best part of my work day is getting a hug from Courtney.
lAUreN PocciA ’07, Admission Office Associate and College Counseling Office Assistant—When I was a prospective ninth grade student, I attended the Holy Child Fall Open House. As I walked around the halls, meeting students and teachers, I felt instantly welcomed and embraced. I knew that I wanted to be a student at Holy Child within moments of walking through the doors. Little did I know, eight years later I would be given the opportunity to be planning for this same event for future students. I still feel the same feeling today as I share my experiences with prospective and current students. I am so happy to say that I am a part of this amazing community. I was able to and continue to gain wisdom, confidence, and friendship at Holy Child.
cAtheriNe cUrrAN SoUther ’77, Religious Studies Teacher—When I graduated from Holy Child, I certainly didn’t expect that decades later I would return as a religious studies teacher. Eight years ago, I attended a presentation hosted by Holy Child for people interested in exploring teaching in independent schools. I was intrigued at the possibility of making this “career change.” After I had retired from the practice of law many years earlier, I had become interested in education through my experiences serving on curriculum committees for my children’s schools and teaching government as an adjunct professor at Westchester Community College. I was drawn back to work at Holy Child because I remembered that, as a student here, I was engaged in learning, challenged to think critically and strive for excellence, and encouraged to develop relationships with my classmates and teachers. During the eight years since I have returned as a teacher at Holy Child, I have been pleased to recognize that the “joy in teaching” and “joy in learning” envisioned by Cornelia Connelly takes place every day at Holy Child Rye.
Noelle tUdor ’06, Science Teacher (Middle and Upper School)—One of the things that make Holy Child so special is its close community. Some of my fondest memories of Holy Child are the friendships I made here, and the teachers that put so much effort and time into what they taught. I was quiet and shy in high school. The fact that so many people encouraged me to take leadership roles in and out of the classroom was important to helping me develop into a more confident woman. When I graduated college and began teaching, I knew I wanted to be in an environment that placed such an importance on community like Holy Child.
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2013 NAIS Student Diversity Leadership/ People of Color
CONFERENCE
By Dana Thomas, Assistant Director of Admission and Diversity and Community By Colm MacMahon, Service Coordinatorof Guidance School/Director Assistant Head of School/Head of the Upper
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diversity, cultural understanding and equity Diversity and Community Service Coordinator Dana Thomas and four students recently boarded a bus for National Harbor, Maryland to attend the 20th annual NAIS Student Diversity Leadership Conference (SDLC) and 26th annual People of Color Conference for adult members of independent schools (PoCC).
After a rigorous application process, consisting of a written proposal of interest, an interview with Ms. Thomas and review by members of the Diversity Initiatives Faculty Committee, the group was selected to attend the largest independent school diversity conference in the country. Katie O’Donnell ’15, Jamilia Stewart ’15, Gabrielle Iarocci ’16, and Kayla Williams ’16 served as the Holy Child student delegation, while Dana Thomas and Iris Castillo, Development Associate & Alumnae Relations Coordinator, chaperoned and participated in the People of Color Conference for faculty, administrators and staff of color. The SDLC experience challenges students to engage in intense dialogue with their peers from other independent schools located throughout the United States, and internationally from Austria, Canada and the United Kingdom. A multiracial, multicultural gathering of nearly 1,400 Upper School students proved to be a life-changing event for our student participants. Over 15,000 students have participated in the SDLC since the first event of its kind in 1993, in St. Paul, Minnesota. School of the Holy Child has sent students and faculty to the SDLC/PoCC for several years, travelling to cities as diverse as the people served at these partner conferences. As part of individual “family and home groups”, each student participant became a member of a team of roughly 20 students who spent the bulk of their workshop and activity time together,
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d i V e r S i t y
School of the holy child students Gabrielle iarocci ’16, Jamilia Stewart ’15, Naima Green ’07, Katie o'donnell ’15, and Kayla Williams ’16 participate in the 20th annual NAiS Student diversity leadership conference (Sdlc).
guided by trained conference adult facilitators, college student facilitators and peer facilitators. Students dialogued with their smaller groups for several hours throughout the day and evening, strengthening the bonds of trust and learning how to utilize strategies for community-building to take back and share with their respective school communities.
Gabrielle Giffords; Staceyann Chin, Spoken Word Poet, Performing Artist and Gender Rights Equality Activist; and Michel Martin, host of National Public Radio’s Tell Me More. Holy Child students, Gabrielle, Jamilia, Katie and Kayla all agree that hearing these personal stories were highlights of the conference.
As first-year SDLC participants, Holy Child students attended Upon their return to Holy Child, these student leaders community-building workshops where they were inspired to continuously commented that they challenged themselves participate in to dig deeply discussions about into the tough matters relating to conversations A MULTIRACIAL, MULTICULTURAL GATHERING OF diversity, cultural that often NEARLY 1,400 UPPER SCHOOL STUDENTS PROVED TO BE understanding surround themes and equity with of equity and similar schools. justice in their The group schools. Both activities serve to students and further students’ staff are grateful depth of understanding in differences of race, culture, religion, to have participated in a richly layered experience that gender and socio-economic identities. explores furthering the understanding of diversity in our schools and beyond. In addition to actively engaging in their workshop activities, students are inspired by nationally/internationally acclaimed Thank you to Dr. Hambleton and the Holy Child community speakers who continually speak directly to student leaders for supporting this conference and the continual exploration about their own experiences and the challenges they have of furthering diversity and inclusion initiatives to support our had to overcome in life. Compelling stories were shared by students as “women of conscience and action.” Daniel Hernandez, Jr., former Intern for Congresswoman
A life-chANGiNG eVeNt for oUr StUdeNt PArticiPANtS.
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middle school report
Technology: Alive, Kicking and Building in our Middle School By Christine Farrell ‘05, Math Teacher and Michelle Sherry, Director of Instructional Technology
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innovative curriculum design In 2010, Director of Instructional Technology Michelle
Sherry sought to revamp the Middle School computer curriculum. Robotics I became the cornerstone of the revised program. Using Lego Mindstorms NXT robots and software, students were introduced to the world of coding through a physical, hands-on medium. For the next two years, the robotics program was enhanced. Robotics II was developed in 2011. In year three of the computer curriculum revision, eighth grade students expanded their programming skills by moving into a Scratchbased coding class titled, Gaming. Now in the fourth and final year of the revision process, the fifth grade has its own problem-solving course titled, Build It! Developed collaboratively by administration and faculty, this new technology program provides opportunities to engage the youngest members of the community in a technology-based learning environment. Team taught by Christine Farrell ’05 and veteran teacher, Emily Morgan, Build It! explores how to problem-solve in a hands-on, interactive learning space. There are many skills required to be a successful “builder.” This course is designed to foster teamwork, presentation skills and creative thinking through projects like bridge building, toothbrush robots and play-dough circuits. continued >>
fifth graders, Katherine leach and olivia Gaffney build bridges between math, science, and problem solving in Build it! class.
fifth graders Alana Burrows and Abby d’ercole create models of the proposed design studio on campus.
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middle school report
Each grade in the Middle School now has its own course in which the foundational elements of problem-solving, logical thinking, iteration and coding are taking root. When students move into Robotics I in sixth grade, they work in pairs and assemble robots they will use for the year. Groups then work at their own pace to complete programming challenges, including line following and noise recognition. Under the guidance of Ms. Farrell and Mrs. Morgan, the students learn to independently identify their mistakes and become skilled programmers.
Under the tutelage of the Director of Instructional Technology, Mrs. Sherry, our seventh and eighth-grade students advance to a more intricate course of study. Seventh-grade Robotics II moves students into independent and open-ended robot programming projects. No longer using the NXT Video trainer series from Robotics I, students now utilize more complex logic tests with data hubs and variables. Seventh-graders autonomously simulate real-world challenges like parallel parking and obstacle detection and movement. Students also get a chance to build their own robots in Robotics II.
EACH GRADE IN THE MIDDLE SCHOOL NOW HAS ITS OWN COURSE IN WHICH THE FOUNDATIONAL ELEMENTS OF
ProBleM-SolViNG, loGicAl thiNKiNG, iterAtioN ANd codiNG Are tAKiNG root.
Gaming, hunt for treasure, by eighth grader, Katrina hannett.
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In one challenge, students design and build their own gear train to lift as heavy a book load as they can. Robotics II finishes with the Lego Green City challenge. In Green City, students complete seven challenges as they relate to renewable energy. All the while, students maintain a video blog of their robot’s progression through all the challenges. The blog is now available on the Holy Child website. Coding is brought to a new level of challenge and complexity in eighth grade with Gaming. Using the MITdeveloped program, Scratch, students are tasked with developing interactive video games we all enjoyed as adolescents. Starting with simple quiz games, students move on to create walled maze games similar to Pac-man, games of chance, like War, a coin toss or a guessing game. Students progress to games that use the concepts of collection, gravity and lives like Super Mario Brothers. Foundational programming concepts such as loops, variables, conditional statements and basic arrays are explored through the icon-based Scratch. Students learn the logic, concepts and importance of iteration without being bogged down by the syntax of a computer language. Gaming will meld the physical world with their interactive world by creating their own game controllers with Makey Makey technology and Scratch. A sample of the eighth-grade games will be available for public play from the Holy Child website. The scope and sequence of Middle School technology has been brought to new levels of technical skill, ingenuity and engagement. Middle School students are challenged to think creatively, abstractly and independently.
in seventh grade, Alexa lantin ’18 and Georgia fitzgerald ’18 built their own gear trains to determine which can lift the most weight in books.
Holy Child continues to be at the forefront of innovative curriculum design that seeks to empower our girls in all
Architecture, design and coding skills are all new literacies to which students should be exposed. With only 17% of AP Computer Science test-takers being female in 2009, it becomes even more imperative to turn our students on to technology at the Middle School level. Holy Child continues to be at the forefront of innovative curriculum design that seeks to empower our girls in all areas, especially technology, engineering and design. .
areas, especially technology, engineering and design.
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upper school report class of 2014 Generoso Pope Scholars take their studies global with a study abroad experience in italy.
The World is our Classroom >>
By Kristine Budill, Director of the E.E. Ford Program in Architecture, Engineering and Design & Lulu Sandes, Director of the Generoso Pope Italian Cultural Studies Program
preparing and inspiring our students
The Generoso Pope Italian Cultural Studies scholars have hit the ground running in the program’s second year at School of the Holy Child.
Seniors returned to school this fall, full of ideas for their independent projects, after spending four weeks touring the historical and cultural landmarks of Italy, from the Vatican and the Coliseum, to the Due Torri and the world’s first university in Bologna. Inspired by their travels, seniors are now nearing completion of their independent research, with topics ranging from Italian Neo-Realist film to the creation of the unified Italian nation in the 19th century. A rigorous, cross-cultural humanities program for juniors and seniors, Generoso Pope raises awareness of Italian culture and provides a sophisticated, interdisciplinary, and academic foundation to students, while enhancing the mission of Holy Child's Global Programs.
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As part of the program, students participate in a collegelevel seminar course exploring the art, film, history, literature, language and politics of Italy. Classroom instruction is complemented by experiential learning: trips to select museums, participation in a week-long Italian language immersion course through the Westchester Italian Cultural Center (WICC), a month-long study abroad experience in Italy, and a senior independent research project. The newest class of juniors in the program has already toured the Cloisters and the Metropolitan Museum with program advisor Dr. Antonio Rutigliano of NYU, and recently took in the sketches of Leonardo Da Vinci at the Morgan Library. These students are currently immersed in the Renaissance, reading Dante’s Inferno, and discovering
the work of the era’s master painters. There are several more New York-based field trips scheduled for the spring before they head off to Bologna, Venice, Rome, Florence and Sienna this summer. “Dante and Michelangelo would have been delighted to witness the educational setting of the Generoso Pope Program at Holy Child. Its multi-disciplinary approach to education is the ideal environment for a young mind to be cultivated. It is the perfect mix of academic formula and real-life educational didacticism to disseminate and promote Italian culture in American schools,” Dr. Rutigliano said. continued
>>
GENEROSO POPE RAISES AWARENESS OF ITALIAN CULTURE AND PROVIDES A
SoPhiSticAted, iNterdiSciPliNAry, ANd AcAdeMic foUNdAtioN TO STUDENTS, WHILE ENHANCING THE MISSION OF HOLY CHILD’S GLOBAL PROGRAMS.
2014 Generoso Pope Scholars Shristhi Avasthi, lauren Stricker, Molly o’Shea, therese ferrara, teresa flanagan, christina hogan and ciara regan.
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upper school report
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1 | e.e. ford and AP Physics students on the dannon plant tour.
2 | Upper School students at St. Patrick’s cathedral.
The Generoso Pope Italian Cultural Studies Program continues to be an excellent addition to the Holy Child Global Studies program. It combines a strong and tailored academic foundation with research experience, and student-planned study abroad. Additionally, it serves as a model for programs such as the E.E. Ford Program in Architecture, Engineering and Design Initiatives for the Common Good, the cornerstone of Holy Child’s STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) curriculum. Many wonder what STEAM really means to a high school girl, or to anyone for that matter. Is STEAM all about problem solving? We are determined to answer that question at Holy Child. In addition to attending guest lectures by chemical and civil engineering professors from Manhattan College and participating in hands-on labs to explore issues including viscosity and mechanics, our students visit corporations, such as Dannon and L’Oreal. During their visits, students have the opportunity to hear from young female engineers about how altering product design lengthens yogurt
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shelf life, or how packaging design influences both shipping cost and customer appeal. Our students come to understand how highly automating the production process allows the company to meet demand for its new teen lipstick. Experiences like these convey the importance of continued innovation in our country and the varied and interesting career options for those with a degree in science and engineering. Recognizing the significance of these degrees, Governor Cuomo recently announced plans to provide top high school graduates pursuing careers in math and science full scholarships at state universities. “The E.E. Ford Program has not only helped me develop my problem-solving capability, it has opened my eyes to different career options I would love to pursue,” Emma Scandole ’15 stated.
Field study experiences convey the importance of continued innovation in our country and the varied and interesting career options for those with a degree in science
Implementing interdisciplinary programs like the E.E. Ford’s Architecture, Engineering and Design Initiatives for the Common Good advances Holy Child’s mission to prepare and inspire our students to develop creative solutions to today’s challenging problems in a socially responsible way.
and engineering.
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around campus >> homecoming 2013 1 | connie, the Gryphon and Katrina hannett ’18.
2 | faculty and Staff members, lauren Poccia ’07, Kate Netto, Noelle tudor ’06.
3 | director of Athletics, Amy Pare, tory huchro ’18, connie, the Gryphon, and Associate director of Athletics, Beau Morki.
4 | Adare ’16 and Kris
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5 | Students at the Powder Puff Game.
6 | Morgan rollins ’14, Jolie Brakey ’14 and Victoria rapillo ’14.
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celeBrAtiNG hoMecoMiNG WeeKeNd 2013 School of the Holy Child students and their families, faculty, staff and alumnae were warmly welcomed to campus for Homecoming & Reunion Weekend. In addition to athletic events, the Homecoming celebration included the traditional Gryphon Fun Run and Powder Puff football game, class reunions, an alumnae liturgy and reception, as well as a carnival for the whole family to enjoy. New to this year’s festivities was the 50th Anniversary Reunion & Tea. More than 20 alumnae returned to their beloved Alma Mater, and enjoyed a tour of the school, reminisced with classmates in the Mansion Parlor and participated in the Community Mass and reception.
7 | class of 2016 at the homecoming Pep rally.
8 | former parent, Sue ciaccia and parents Maria cristiano, dina Pfohl, Kim Gillespie and irene o’donnell.
9 | Students all dressed up at the homecoming Photo booth.
10 | Kiernan ’14 and
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Katy Pagnani.
11 | class of 2017 cheering at the Powder Puff football game.
12 | Middle School students at the fun run.
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around campus >> homecoming 2013 1 | Kyra ’14, Janet, and Natalie ’18 Williams.
2 | dulcie delPriore ’16, Adare Kennedy ’16, Shannon o’connor ’13, Bridget delPriore ’14, Mary henderson ’13, Beth infanger ‘14 and Maddy fitzwilliam ’16. 3 | Juniors with religious Studies chair, Alina troya Aquilato ’00 at the Powder Puff game.
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4 | eighth graders Meredith Moore, Phoenix Jackson, Sandra King and parent Jasmine Bellamy.
5 | Seniors Annie devine, Shristhi Avasthi, and chloe Giroux.
6 | freshmen at the Pep rally.
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7 | head of School, Bill hambleton, head of the Upper School, colm MacMahon and head of the Middle School, colleen Pettus with Middle School students.
8 | Kathleen daly ’16. 9 | Seniors Morgan Bryant and caroline o’Neill with connie.
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10 | casey diaz ’14 and Jamie corelli ’15.
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11 | Juniors at homecoming. 12 | Seniors celebrate their Powder Puff win.
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Arts
departments
>> Holy Child Seniors Impress in the Arts In January, Holy Child sophomores, juniors and seniors participated in the New York State Theatre Education Association Student Conference, which annually hosts nearly 1,000 students from across New York State. During the conference, students participated in a number of performing arts-related workshops, ranging from Beginner Ballet and Introduction to Acting to Advanced Stage Combat and College Audition Prep. Between workshops, participants engaged in structured activity time to study song writing or performance, work on choreography, attend lectures, or simply discuss performance methods. Students also met with theatre arts professionals
Krista Escaffi-Aguilar’s Artwork Chosen for Katonah Museum of Art’s Young Artists 2014 Exhibition! Congratulations to Krista Escaffi-Aguilar ’14 whose design was chosen from 32 entries from 18 local high schools, and votes from the Katonah Museum of Art Board, staff,
from a number of arts organizations and theatre companies, as well as several New York-based colleges. This year, three Holy Child seniors were offered third year positions at the conference. Third year students are given a number of additional responsibilities and must be accepted into the program by the conference coordinators and board members. “NYSTEA workshops have given me new perspectives on my acting and directing," Tess Flanagan ’14 said. “Being a third year student made me realize how much I have gotten out of NYSTEA, and that was really exciting. It is always great to feel like you are representing your school, but as a third year student, I also felt like I was representing NYSTEA, which was great!” NYSTEA workshops give students the opportunity to explore new ideas and concepts with their peers, while challenging them as performers, students, and individuals. This not only inspires creative thinking, it enhances public speaking and communication skills, boosts confidence, and fosters individuality. It is really a wonderful experience for all who attend.
volunteers, and workshop participants. Krista´s design was used for the postcard invitation sent to more than 3,000 people, a poster, and press image representing the Young Artists 2014 exhibition. Congratulations to Krista and her winning design!
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“The conference offers excellent tools for students who are interested in pursuing degrees or careers in the performing arts, but I truly feel it is incredibly beneficial to all of my students and a wonderful experience for all who attend,” Director of the Arts at School of the Holy Child Kim Calhoun added.
>> Returning to a Simpler Life with Thornton Wilder’s Our Town “For the Poetry of the Art, we must provide various occasions to allow every grade in the school to cultivate their fancy and taste.” – Cornelia Connelly The Gryphon Players kicked off their 2013-2014 performance season with Thornton Wilder’s, Our Town. Upper School students participated in the drama, which spans more than a decade and asks its audience to look at the beautiful and fleeting moments in each lifetime. Wilder’s best known and beloved play, is typically staged using only ladders, tables and chairs to depict locations. Often, plates, cups and even the addition or removal of coats and hats are pantomimed. This is intentional. Wilder felt that stripping away the additions and ornamentation in life was the key to understanding what makes life meaningful. School of the Holy Child stayed true to Wilder’s vision, keeping the set, props and costuming minimal.
Seniors Gus Pendergast playing emily and tess flanagan playing George.
“Our Town is such a beautiful and iconic play. I could think of no better work to showcase, inspire or challenge our incredibly talented student-performers,” said Holy Child’s Director of the Arts Kim Calhoun. “It was a pleasure to work with this group of girls and to watch them take command of this difficult and nuanced text with such detail and maturity.” Senior Gus Pendergast played Emily, one of the central players in the ensemble cast. The play follows Emily and her family from adolescence through young adulthood in three very distinct acts: The Daily Life, Love and Marriage, and Death.
cecelia Bonner' 15 and Shristhi Avasthi '14 both as Stage Managers.
“Being a part of Our Town was an incredible experience,” Gus said. “This is the type of play that affects the actors and, hopefully, the audience in a profound way, because it makes one think about the gift of life. We do theatre so that we can portray truth through art, and Thornton Wilder’s play certainly allowed us to do that,” Gus added. Seniors Shristhi Avasthi, Annie Devine, Tess Flanagan, and Asha Perry also starred in the fourteen-person cast.
Asha Perry '14 and Kit devine '16 as Mr. and Mrs. Gibb.
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departments
Athletics A Season of Greatness! >>
By Amy Pare, Director of Athletics
great sporting moments
It is not just the championship athlete or record breaker that seeks to push her limits. At Holy Child, all of our athletes strive to excel on their own terms, to set personal records and to achieve their own defining moment of greatness. In a world where athletes are becoming bigger, faster and more competitive, our athletes are constantly being challenged. This past fall, we celebrated many great sporting moments at Holy Child. The varsity soccer team did not fall short in achieving greatness, as they battled injuries and tough opponents all season long to earn the title of NYSAIS Champions. “Our motto this year was attitude, passion and belief. The girls embraced our motto and embodied the Holy Child spirit. It was evident that these girls played with their hearts, supported each other, and never gave up until the last whistle. In turn, they achieved greatness,� Coach Beau Morki stated. Varsity soccer was not the only team that achieved greatness this fall. The varsity field hockey team earned a spot in the NYSAIS tournament for the ninth year in a row, and coaches Barbara Lorys and Cheryl O’Shea celebrated their 100th win at Holy Child!
holy child Varsity Soccer team are 2013-2014 NySAiS champions!
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field hockey team and coaches, Barbara lorys and cheryl o’Shea, celebrate ten years of coaching and their 100th win!
The varsity cross-country team competed in the NYSAIS Championship for the 10th year in a row and came in 4th in the Fairchester Athletic Association (FAA). The varsity volleyball team had a fabulous season as well. With an 11-9 record, they came in third in the FAA and advanced to the semi-finals of the FAA tournament. All four varsity teams competed in the postseason – truly a great accomplishment! It wasn’t just the results on the scoreboard at the end of the game or the championship titles that made our athletes great this season, but rather their positive attitudes. They not only supported each other, they invigorated the rest of the community as well. As one season came to an end, athletes quickly had to face a new set of challenges in the next season. Once again, they had to determine how they would “find their greatness.” Holy Child athletes earned notable recognition and set school and personal records throughout the winter season. Captain of the basketball team, Maggie Welsh ’14, earned the prestigious Athlete of the Week award presented by the ConEdison Westchester Scholastic Sports Program. Maggie is the second athlete in Holy Child’s history to earn this recognition. Several of the runners from Indoor Track and Field have set personal records this
fAA & NySAiS Semi finalists, the Varsity Basketball team played to support Breast cancer Awareness Month in october.
season. Four students beat the 4X200 school record, and Joshane Wakefield ’14 qualified for the New York State Federation Championship at Cornell University. For the first time in school history, the SHC swim team was represented by both Middle and Upper School students. Four swimmers from the eighth grade joined our team of very talented swimmers and have helped contribute to the team's success.
Holy Child athletes continue to rise to the challenges they face in competition. It is never the “easy win” that shows someone’s true character, but rather in the golden goal in the overtime period or in those last 100 meters in a photo-finish mile run. These are the moments when School of the Holy Child athletes shine!
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departments
Spiritual Pursuits >> Faith in the Modern World By Emily Moore, Interim Director of Global Programs
The challenges of a young woman’s senior year of high school are many and varied. It is a time of questioning, accepting and rejecting certain roles, balancing anticipated changes with current responsibilities, and learning to define herself as an individual, while maintaining connections with family and friends. It is a time of vision and imagination mixed with a certain amount of nostalgia. For many students, faith provides a unifying thread as they work to bring the best of their past with them to the future. Holy Child offers seniors the chance to thoughtfully engage some of their unique challenges through Faith in the Modern World,
Senior Maeve Potter lights the candles for Mass.
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a two-trimester capstone course that revisits some topics covered in previous courses, while introducing new themes and ideas. The course allows students to reflect on material covered in class, and to be introspective about their individual spiritual journeys – to ask themselves where they have been, where they are now, and where they hope to go as their independence increases and they learn to live and work alongside new people. As teachers, we hope to give our students a solid foundation to address their challenges and aspire to great things in the future. Examining their faith is a critical piece of that foundation, which Faith in the Modern World
“let us love one another and be faithful” — Cornelia Connelly
seeks to address. And, it seems to be working. When students were recently asked to describe their personal faith, many students wrote about how their time at Holy Child has influenced them. “Upon my arrival to Holy Child, I was strong in my faith because I was told to be. Now I am strong in my faith because I choose to be,” Maeve Potter said.
Seniors examine their faith at this year's retreat. Samantha Poole, Maeve McGowan and Jada-iman Williams.
Faith and the Modern World culminates in the Connelly Project, an experiential learning opportunity developed by the students which allows them to dig deeper into something they learned during the course. The movement from the classroom out to the community mimics their transition into the world outside school and ends the class with “actions, not words,” one of Holy Child’s highest ideals.
imani Sherrill.
Bridget Breslin and christina hogan.
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reunion 2013 >> reunite, reconnect, rekindle
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1 | Meredith o’conner ’03, carolyn Walters, caroline o’conner ’08.
2 | class of 2003. 3 | class of 1973. 4 | class of 1983. 5 | class of 1993. 6 | class of 1978.
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1 | Amanda Septimo ’08 and Whitney Brimat ‘08. 2 | Margaret (Peggy) Parlatore Kelly ’77, Sally cassidy ’63 and catherine curran Souther ‘77. 3 | class of 1963 with Bill hambleton.
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We Are eXcited to ANNoUNce oUr NeWly APPoiNted 2014-2015 AlUMNAe BoArd MeMBerS Mary Carroll Linder ’65 Anne Therese Bello ’70 Liz Iadavaia ’78 Barbara Healy Van Bergen ’78 Nicole Delz Lynch ’78 Cece Greco Ryan ’84 Megan Gallagher McSherry ’87 Elizabeth Doherty Dilullo ’88 Andrea Hooper Robert ’91 Ellen Cassels Kenny ’91 Laurissa Martire Michael ’94 Lisa Martire Wade ’95 Delia Birde Minson ’97 Brittany Schnitta ’06 Stefanie Ciaccia ’08 Jacqueline DeMarco ’13 Alumnae are invited to join one of four committees on the Alumnae Board: Recruitment/Marketing, Fundraising, Professional Development/Networking and Alumnae Events.
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For more information, please contact Deirdre A. O’Brien ’93, Director of Annual Giving and Alumnae Relations, d.obrien@holychildrye.org, (914) 967-5622 x436.
AlUMNAe eVeNtS happy hour at rye Grill and Bar — April 24, 2014 Alumnae Board Meeting — May 6, 2014 Spring reunion — May 31, 2014 college Age Alums BBq with Seniors — June 4, 2014 Summertime rooftop happy hour — June 2014 fall Wine tasting — october 2014 Professional roundtable – GAMco investors — date, tBA
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We Wo Ul d loVe to h e A r fr oM yo U! Please send us your news and/or a photo so we can include it in the next issue of Glimpses.
class notes
Send your information to Director of Annual Giving and Alumnae Relations Deirdre O’Brien at 914-967-5622 ext. 436 or d.obrien@holychildrye.org. Please note that we make every effort to be as accurate as possible. If there are any errors, please accept our sincere apology.
Stay connected with Holy Child online.
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1931 —2004
— 1931 — CATHERINE JOSEPH BURKE celebrated her 100th birthday on Aug 29, 2013!
— 1950 — 1
MARGARET WALKER CLERKIN is looking forward to her granddaughter’s wedding in Ireland in September. Margaret has several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
— 1956 — BERNADETTE TIMONY CARROLL is still playing golf at Fairway Mews and is president again. She is blessed to have five beautiful grandchildren.
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— 1964 — ANNE MARIE DOTY PAINE is enjoying her retirement.
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— 1967 — KATHY MURPHY MCCURDY is living in Georgia and loving the six golf courses nearby. “It is so fun being here,” she said.
— 1981 — GRACE COUGHLAN CONNELL is living in Westport, CT with her husband, John, and their three children, Grace Elizabeth Ann, 14, Catherine Delaney, 12 and Hugh Edward, 10.
CAROLYN MERZ ALIA is the proud grandmother of two grandchildren.
— 1991 —
— 1963 —
KRISTEN PARROTT MULVOY is the Gala and Auction Coordinator at SHC. Her daughter Courtney ’21 is in fifth grade.
ELLEN COLANGELO writes, “Jim and I are enjoying the good life in San Diego. I am semi-retired and Jim is fully retired. Travel, family (grandkids in town) and friends keep us busy.”
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KAREN MARCATO KIAER is the proud grandmother of Lucas and Sophia Kiaer, ages three and one.
MARIA JOY RIZZO is co-owner/ executive chef of Halcyon Gourmet, located in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. Her successful catering business was recently featured in the Greenpoint Star.
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1 | Jackie Bello ’72 invites friends, including Math Department Chair, Carolyn Walters to watch the Thanksgiving Day Parade from her apartment in NYC. 2 | Helen McConnell ’77 is happy to announce the engagement of her daughter, Mary MS ’01 to Dan Cocoziello. 3 | Noël Caraccio ’69 co-authored Secrets Change Everything with Maggie Branath in 2013. 4 | 1982 classmates Kelly Doern, Brigid O’Neill Lamon and Ursula Zerega Lange got together for a weekend in January. 5 | Irene Zutell ’83 wrote Miss Brenda and the Loveladies (Random House, February 2014).
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— 1995 — CATHERINE STEINTHAL married Michael Gluck on December 14, 2013. The ceremony was held at Resurrection Church in Rye followed by the reception at Winged Foot Country Club. In attendance were classmates (photo 4, back row): CARA MARTIN RULLI, MARIELLE SACK BUSH, MEGHAN MCCARTHY, CATHERINE STEINTHAL GLUCK, LISA MATIRE WADE, LEIGH STUART MULSHINE, HILARY SMITH, and SARAH KEHAYAS DOWNING ’94. (Seated left to right): CANDICE COLUMBRES HERLOD ’94, CAROLINE COLUMBRES DEAN ’94, CLAUDINE COLUMBRES NEWCOMB ’94, and ALYSON FERINE.
— 1998 — STEFANIE CARDILLO DALY wed John Anthony Daly on April 27, 2013 at Immaculate Conception Church in Tuckahoe, New York. Stefanie was joined in celebrating her marriage by COLLEEN BOLAND, MAUREEN GAFFNEY, and CLARA JABLONSKI.
— 2003 — ALISON KELLEHER ALI and her husband Joe welcome their daughter, Adelaide Isabel, born December 5, 3013. Alison is a Speech Language Pathologist, with
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a private practice specializing in voice disorders.
— 2004 — CAROLINE HANNIGAN KELLY and Anthony Kelly married June 22, 2013. The ceremony was held at St. Augustine’s Church, followed by a reception at Larchmont Yacht Club. KATIE BREEN re-joined Morgan Stanley in July 2013, working in their Private Client Group in Alternative Investment Partners.
1 | April Webers Saxe ’91 attended Homecoming with her twins Tommy and Kathleen, aged 4. 2 | 1993 classmates, Sue Flink O’Connor, Annie Glennon, Erica Mirabile Rubenstein, Colleen Parrott Ogilvie, Kendra Murray Jennings, Anne Carr, Deirdre O’Brien and Collette Porcelli Lettieri celebrate their 20year reunion in Deer Valley, Utah.
4 | Holy Child alums join Catherine Steinthal ’95 at her wedding in December. 5 | Nate D’Ambrosio, son of former staff and alumna Kate Collins ’95. 6 | Catherine “Cathy” Donahue Fugazy ’77 with her family. Cathy’s daughter Catherine Fugazy Bave ’03 married Sean Bave in 2013.
3 | Beth Carey Hanypsiak ’94 with her family.
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class notes 2006—2013
— 2006 — ELIZABETH MARREN graduated from Fordham University School of Law in May 2013. She will be admitted to the New York and New Jersey State Bars in the next few months. Elizabeth is currently working at UBS Investment Bank as an Equities Compliance Officer in the New York City office.
DANA PARSONS is a first grade teacher at Greenwich Catholic School. She just finished publishing her first children’s book, entitled Can Caterpillars Fly?. MEGAN BREEN is in her second year as a police officer working at the Yonkers Police Department. ELIZABETH SCHAUBER is a thirdyear student at Brooklyn Law
School. She is the Managing Editor of the Brooklyn Journal of Corporate, Financial & Commercial Law. After graduating from BLS, Elizabeth will join PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP as a Senior Associate in the Financial Services Regulatory Group. ALANA MARSILI graduated from Georgetown University's School of Foreign Service with a Masters in Latin American
Studies and Political Economy. She started her own company, Enlace International. In addition, she joined the firm PAW Associates, as a consultant and lobbyist for the financial industry. KAITLIN TIERNEY MILLER is the proud new mother of Christopher “CJ” Miller Jr., born on February 14, 2014.
alumnae spotlight All in the Family! All graduates of the School of the Holy Child, Rye, the Farrell sisters are women of conscience and action. Christine ’05 graduated from Union College with a Mechanical Engineering degree and went to work as a civilian for the US Navy designing aircraft support equipment. She was drawn back to Holy Child through the prospect of the E.E. Ford Program and is now teaching both Math and Engineering classes to Upper and Middle School students. Maureen ’07 moved to West Virginia, where she is now a sustainable mushroom farmer and president of the local farmers market association. She grows and raises all of her own food, living a completely green lifestyle for a sustainable future. Maureen ’07 and Christine ’05 Farrell.
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Jennifer ’98 is currently living in Newport, RI, with her two children, Kaitlynn (11) and Nicolas (9). Jenn has been in the US Coast Guard for over 5 years and is now a second class petty officer specializing in finance and supply.
1 | Christopher “CJ” Miller Jr., son of Kaitlin Tierney Miller ’07. 2 | Mairead Kennelly ’08 with JVC community members at the Alamo. 3 | Bridget Cooney ’11 and Mike Clancy.
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— 2007 — SARAH JAHNKE has been spending time in Central America. Currently, she is working in Panama on a consulting project. Over the holidays, Sarah was joined by her two sisters Megan ’12 and Christine ’10 for a family trip in Costa Rica. NAIMA GREEN will graduate in May 2014, with her M.A. in Art & Art Education from Teachers College, Columbia University. Naima is a working artist with exhibits around New York City. She is in her final year of a
Visual Arts Teaching Fellowship at Rye Country Day School.
Louisiana’s prisons. In September, I started at Fordham Law”.
— 2008 — — 2010 — MAIREAD KENNELLY writes, “I spent the last year in the Jesuit Volunteer Corps in New Orelans, Louisiana. I lived with other volunteers in a community focused on the values of spirituality, social justice and simiplicity. My fellowship was at the Orleans Public Defenders. My primary concern was medical advocacy for our incarcerated clients. I was able to travel around the state, reviewing
PAULETTE CAMPO was accepted to Teach For America and placed in NYC. She is looking forward to this wonderful opporunity to teach. Paulette was an intern during the Christmas break in the SHC Development Office. ALECIA McCARTHY returned as Intern in SHC Development Office over the winter break.
— 2011 — BRIDGET COONEY is a junior at New York Maritime, studying for a degree in Marine Transportation. She is training on a ship named Empire State. In addition, she is studying for a US Coast Guard Deck Officer’s license that will allow her to work on a ship abroad, eventually leading to being a Captain.
— 2013 — SUSANNA McNATT worked as a counselor at Camp Bernadette in Wolfboro, NH.
alumnae spotlight Holy Child Alumnae at People! The HC Alumnae circuit is alive and strong at People! Four alumnae have the privilege of working and having lots of fun together on one of the largest media brands in the world! Susan Parkes ’82 is the SVP, Marketing, Cece Ryan ’84 is the Associate Publisher, Sales, Anne Toal Kaufmann ‘92 is the Associate Publisher, People.com and Taylor Messiter ‘08 is the Marketing Coordinator. All four of the alumnae work closely together on a daily basis and feel their Holy Child experience helped lay the ground work and greatly prepared them for the corporate world. Although they all graduated in different years, they all share many similar traits and passion for hard work, independence, and of course, pop culture!
www.holychildrye.org
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departments
faculty
>> Don Devine,
administration feature
Chief Financial Officer
Already a parent member of our school community, Don Devine joined the Holy Child staff as Chief Financial Officer in November 2013. He brings more than 30 years of experience in finance to his position at Holy Child. Don was introduced to the School of the Holy Child community in 2010, when he and his wife, Mary, enrolled their daughters, Annie ’14 and Kit ’16, at our school. Over the years, Mary has remained a dedicated volunteer, and the Devine family has thoroughly enjoyed being part of the positive and supportive community. “During our time at Holy Child, we have watched our girls grow from Holy Child’s tremendously positive environment, and we have witnessed how the members of this community live out the mission of our school in everyday life,” Don said. A life-long resident of White Plains, Don spent the majority of his finance career in the consumer goods industry. He has worked in corporations in Westchester and Rockland counties, as well as northern New Jersey. Don made the switch to academia over two years ago, when Berkeley College was seeking a Chief Financial Officer with a more diverse background in finance. He served as CFO at Berkeley for two years. Don’s transition to Holy Child’s Senior Administrative Team has been seamless. “I already experienced the support of this community as a parent. My transition to staff has been equally positive. The staff has been so welcoming across the board. I look forward to serving as CFO of a school that puts its students first and is dedicated to developing women of conscience and action.” Don and Mary live in White Plains with their daughters, Annie and Kit. Their son, Eddie, who graduated from Fordham Prep last year, is finishing his freshman year at Washington University in St. Louis.
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faculty notes
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1 | Congratulations to Sydney Hochman, who married Rob Kindler in January 2014. 2 | Happy 75th Birthday to School Receptionist, Hilda Pittocco, pictured here with Iris Castillo.
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3 | Kathy Civetta’s daughter, Vivien ’07 a Cornell University graduate, is engaged to Charles J. Slicklen. They look forward to a November 2014 wedding in New York City. 4 | Welcome to Dance Teacher Kara Tatelbaum’s new baby, Mattea Tatelbaum DeBlasio born September 16, 2013.
5 | The Cornelia Connelly Center (CCC), a member of the Holy Child Network, is a Middle School located on Manhattan’s Lower East Side that empowers girls living in poverty to realize their full potential. Pictured here during Board Visiting Day at CCC: Former Head of School, SHC Rye, and CCC Trustee, Sr. Jean O’Meara, SHCJ; CCC Executive Director, Heather Raftery; CCC Trustee, Deirdre O’Brien ’93; and Parent of Emily ’07 and CCC Trustee, Anna Houlihan. MIssing from picture: Parent of Kasey ’09 and CCC Trustee, Kathy LaMothe.
5 www.holychildrye.org
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in memoriam
Robert Maffei, father of Mary Elizabeth Maffei Hennessy ’79, Anne Catharine Maffei Fitton ’82 and Patricia Maffei ’87
Anne Corroon Grubbs ’76 Mary Kay Greenwood, aunt of Cara Zaback ’18
Jean Adamson Whims ’59 Kathy O’Keefe DeBernardis ’79
Gibson Smith II, grandfather of Sally Smith ’14
Marzen ’18 John Patrick “Pat” Callaghan. grandfather of Casey Diaz ’14 John Connolley, grandfather of Jennifer Whitt, faculty Sue Grandy Joblanski ’51
Elaine McHugh, mother of Lisa McHugh Massey ’72 and Fern McHugh Mountain ’72
Mary Taylor, sister of Sr. Jane Roach, SHCJ Donald Ireland, cousin of Sr. Jane Roach, SHCJ
Art Morgan, father of Anne Morgan ’77 Sr. Lois Beaucage, SHCJ George Butler, uncle of Dana Thomas, Staff Kyle Cruz, friend of Madeline Fitzwilliam ’16
James “Jim” Hogan, husband of former faculty Elizabeth Hogan Sr. Margaret “Peggy” Farrell, ’48 SHCJ
Rachel Pennacchia, great aunt of Deirdre O’Brien ’93 Alexandra Hvratin family friend of Deirdre O’Brien ’93 Robert Marzen, grandfather of Reilly
in loving memory
Ann Haffey Quinn ’70 Ann was a member of the Class of 1970. Her four sisters, Eileen ’69, Joan ’74, Mary ’77 and Celia ’84 also attended Holy Child. During her memorial service, classmate Pam Maffei McCarthy eloquently recalled, “Annie was one of the keenest observers of life among us and was able to describe what she saw and what she felt with a precision that was sometimes startling… (She) asked searching questions, a million of them, but slowly, thoughtfully, leaning in to listen and always reaching for clarity… We’re reminded of the huge joy she got from the simplest things – she would greet them with wideeyed wonder or a joyous hoot – and then she would find meaning in them.”
Ann haffey quinn ’70 with her son, Ben in September 2013.
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26th Annual Auction and Gala Honorees
Sue and Domenick Ciacca They are truly our “Cup of Tea.” The School of the Holy Child extends its sincere appreciation to Sue and Domenick Ciacca, parents of Jacqueline ’06, Stefanie ’08, and Jessica ’13, for their generous support and dedication to Holy Child. For nearly two decades, the Ciaccias have been an integral part of the Holy Child community. Domenick is a long standing member of the Board of Trustees. Sue’s tireless volunteer efforts include her leadership of the Parents Association, Annual Gala and Auction, Homecoming, and the Maureen Allison McGrath ’78 Memorial Library Luncheon. We are blessed to have such warm and dedicated friends as part of the Holy Child family. We celebrate and thank Sue and Domenick for their commitment to the mission and sustainability of our school.
Non-ProďŹ t Org. U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 1023 2225 Westchester Avenue Rye, NY 10580 RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED
Parents of Alumnae: If your daughter no longer maintains a permanent residence at your home, please notify the Alumnae Office of her new mailing address by calling 914-967-5622 x436.
White Plains, NY