MAGNIFICAT M AG A Z I N E
SPRING 2020
MOTORCYCLES AT MAGNIFICAT? INSIDE THE NEW MECHANICAL ENGINEERING PARTNERSHIP WITH MOTOGO CLEVEL AND | PAGE 10
Spring 2020 Issue Contributors Elizabeth Day Director of Communications Maggie Mroz Lamb ’84 Director of Constituent Relations Mary Ellen Madden ’03 Assistant Director of Communications
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Leadership Team Moira Clark ’77 President Sr. Helen Jean Novy, HM Vice President of Mission Marilyn Arundel ’76 Dean of Faculty & Academics Mary Therese Dwyer-Kueller Dean of Student Life & Formation Julie Sims Gibbons ’80 Vice President of Enrollment & Marketing Amy Kubacki Vice President of Advancement Mary Salwan Miller ’88 Vice President of Finance & Administration Board of Directors Martin Berry Barbara Waitkus Billings ’86 Dr. Kathleen Buse Gabrielle Ata Christman ’99 Pat Fogarty Dan Geib Sr. Carole Anne Griswold, HM Beth Haas ’94 Linda Loesch Kelly ’77 Dara Ann Krueger ’87 Lisa Kunkle Joe Lee Bill Murman Laura Nortz Colleen Moran O’Neil ’88 Margaret Jeffers Rowe ’87 Brian Sinchak Andrew Strada Sr. Barbara Wincik, HM Cover Photo Photo by Kevin Kopanski Photography This is a publication of Magnificat High School. Please contact Director of Communications Elizabeth Day at 440.331.1572 x282 or eday@maghs.org with questions or comments.
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30 Table of Contents
School News
2-7
Campus Enhancements
8-9
Motorcycles at Magnificat? Inside the New Mechanical Engineering Partnership with Motogo Cleveland
10-11
The Global Classroom: Experiential Learning at Magnificat
12-13
HM History and Heritage
14-16
Athletics 16-19 Reunion 20-21 2020 Presidential Awards
22-23
Advancement 24-25 Building Excellence Together
26-30
Learn, Lead, Serve: Alumnae Living Our Mission in the World
31-32
Class Notes
33-35
In Memoriam
35-37
FROM THE PRESIDENT AND BOARD CHAIRPERSON Dear Friends, We hope you and your loved ones are safe and healthy during these challenging times. At a time when uncertainty can become overwhelming, at Magnificat, we have been working to stay as connected as possible with our students, families, and alumnae so that we may all find encouragement and hope in one another. All on-campus classes and events through May 1 have been canceled, and all students began online learning on Wednesday, March 18. We hope you enjoy the article in the pages ahead that features how online classrooms and community have looked for us over these past few weeks. We know this is a particularly difficult time for the Class of 2020 and their families, who would have been partaking in special events like Dad Prom, the Mother-Daughter Senior Mass & Luncheon, and their final Spirit Week together. While we know it is not the same, we have been celebrating these events virtually and intend to continue doing so for as long as is necessary. Leading up to the growing concern about the spread of COVID-19, it was a school year filled with many blessings here at Magnificat. As the pages ahead illustrate, we continue to expand our curriculum and programming to both meet our students where they are and challenge them to explore new horizons. From Kick-Start Day in our Motogo garage to the masterful performance of Matilda, the Musical in the Center for Performing Arts and everywhere in between, our students are amazing us this year with their many accomplishments. As you know, at the end of October we launched the public phase of Building Excellence Together: The Campaign for Magnificat High School, and we still intend to break ground for the new Center for Science Exploration this coming May. It is only through the incredible generosity of hundreds of alumnae, current and past parents, faculty members, and friends that Magnificat has come to this pivotal moment, and we sincerely thank you. As we continue to navigate the uncertainty of the days and weeks ahead, may we look to The Magnificat for comfort and guidance. In it, Mary says, “You have remembered your promise of mercy, the promise you made to our ancestors, to Abraham and Sarah and their children forever.” May Mary’s steadfast faith continue to be a source of wisdom and a beacon of hope in these times. Thank you for each and every way that you continue to support the Mission of Magnificat and the young women we continue to serve from generation to generation. In the Spirit of Mary’s Magnificat,
Moira Clark ’77 President
Colleen Moran O’Neil ’88 Chairperson, Board of Directors
We educate young women holistically to learn, lead, and serve in the spirit of Mary’s Magnificat. | MAGNIFICAT MAGAZINE
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SCHOOL NEWS
Students and Faculty Move to Online Learning in Light of Coronavirus On Thursday, March 12, Magnificat made the difficult decision to close the school building and transition to online learning for the health and safety of the entire school community in light of the COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak.
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agnificat was poised to rise to the challenge of efficiently moving to online learning for a number of reasons. First, almost all Magnificat faculty members were already familiar with Google Classroom and the web-based resources and tools it offers for online learning. Second, many of the professional development sessions teachers have participated in this school year have provided them with insights that will support them while they are teaching online. Non-traditional rubrics, alternative assessments, and student-designed learning are among some of the strategies discussed during these sessions. Third, anticipating the need for a school closure, faculty and staff began preparing March 11, a full day before Governor DeWine ordered schools closed. This allowed academic departments to meet in teams and, together with the whole faculty, prepare for the transition to online teaching. This preparation continued on Friday, March 13, and Monday, March 16, so
that each faculty member was equipped to begin teaching students online on Wednesday, March 18. One hurdle that had to be overcome in order to prepare for the successful launch of online learning was to ensure that every student had the technology and connectivity necessary to engage in their classes remotely. Because the Leadership Team was proactive in terms of thinking about closure, we had the time to identify and meet students’ needs related to technology and internet access. Knowing that every student could continue learning remotely was critical to our ability to move forward with our curriculum with as little interruption as possible. Each class “meets” twice a week for two hours. During this time, they can come together using Google Meet, participate in an online discussion, complete an assessment, watch a video, or work on a group project. Teachers also have online
L to R: Dr. Mike Wilson, from the English department; Mrs. Gretchen Swasey, from the World Language department; and Ms. Diane Visgak, from the Social Studies department embark on their first day of online teaching.
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MAGNIFICAT MAGAZINE | A MAGAZINE FOR ALUMNAE AND FRIENDS OF MAGNIFICAT HIGH SCHOOL | SPRING 2020
Left: Lauren Shearer '22 shared a photo of her first day of Mrs. Slife's AP World History Class.
Above: Motogo Cleveland provided Mechanical Engineering students with model engine kits so they can continue their engine reassembly from home.
Left: Magnificat faculty preparing to transition to online learning on Friday, March 13.
“office hours” once each week to provide students with a specific time they know they can reach their teachers to answer questions or provide assistance. Many teachers, like Mrs. Dolores Sankovich in the World Language department, are choosing to employ Google Meet for their classes. “I know I don't have to meet with them," she said, "but I think it's like really being in class." She even noted that one of her students attended the first day of online classes in her school uniform! Magnificat’s Student Support Services team — including intervention specialists — continues to meet with students as well. Intervention Specialist Ms. Jennifer Connors reports of one of her students, “With the distant learning, she said she is
able to stay on schedule or ahead of schedule with all of her classes.” Her colleague, Mrs. Erin Hertvik applauded students' commitment saying, "I have seen the girls grow these past two weeks and really 'step up to the plate'. They have shown great responsibility and have improved their self-advocacy and communication skills." The willingness to adapt to a new learning environment is a testament to Magnificat’s core value of lifelong learning. We are grateful the faculty have embraced this challenge and met it with flexibility and creativity, resolved to ensure that a Magnificat education can continue, regardless of the circumstance.
We educate young women holistically to learn, lead, and serve in the spirit of Mary’s Magnificat. | MAGNIFICAT MAGAZINE
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SCHOOL NEWS
From left to right: James Napier (representing Fr. Augustus Tolton), Sandra Gay-Chapman (representing Sr. Thea Bowman), Chloe Becker ’20, Michael Sitts (representing St. Augustine), Phillis Fuller Clipps (representing St. Monica), and Jordan Sanders (representing St. Benedict).
Agape Mural Blessing & Prayer Service In August, our school community gathered to bless the Agape Mural that Chloe Becker ’20 painted in Magnificat’s Chapel Lobby last April. The mural was part of Chloe’s Agape Experiment, which calls on junior students to create a project that makes the world more loving and just. In her artist statement, she writes, “The goal of my Agape Experiment was to respond to the USCCB’s pastoral letter, Open Wide Our Hearts, by doing my part to strengthen the Catholic Church’s voice against racism.” Members of St. Adalbert Parish who were the models for the African and African American church leaders depicted in the mural played a central role in the student-led prayer service. Through prayer, song, and the life stories of the church leaders, students invited all present to reflect on the historical and modern-day implications of racism and how Magnificat is called to work toward greater equity and inclusion within the school community and the world.
National Merit Commended Scholars Congratulations to Kelly Boddy ’20 (left) and Grace Demaree ’20 (right) who have been named National Merit Commended Scholars. Kelly and Grace both achieved a PSAT score that ranked them among the top 3-4% of high school seniors throughout the state of Ohio. While they are still undecided about which colleges they will attend this fall, Kelly will be pursuing pre-medicine with a minor in Spanish and Grace plans to study business.
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MAGNIFICAT MAGAZINE | A MAGAZINE FOR ALUMNAE AND FRIENDS OF MAGNIFICAT HIGH SCHOOL | SPRING 2020
Humble Hands Advent Giving Project Benefits Partner Organizations
Matilda, the Musical Run Captivates Crowds and Includes a Sensory-Friendly Performance Audiences of all ages were spellbound by the creativity, talent, and technical skill that students brought to Magnificat’s production of Matilda, the Musical in November. Director of Performing Arts Mr. Dale Van Niel noted the hard work and long hours that are required for a production of this magnitude. “Because of the whimsical nature of the play, this is the most technically challenging show we’ve ever done at Magnificat. The students have been working on set design and construction, choreography, vocal training, lighting, sound, and every other aspect of production for months, and we are very proud of all they’ve accomplished to bring the show to life.” Nearly 3,500 theater-goers enjoyed the eight performances that took place in November, one of which was Magnificat’s first sensory-friendly performance for children and adults with disabilities. As part of her junior-year Agape Experient, Gwen Wojtkun ’20 brought forth a proposal to incorporate sensoryfriendly performances into Magnificat’s theater programming. In order to be more inclusive of children and adults living with Autism Spectrum Disorder, sensory sensitivities, or other disabilities, this special performance featured brighter audience lighting and softer music to create a more comfortable atmosphere. The Performing Arts Department plans to continue offering sensory-friendly opportunities for future plays and performances. Congratulations to the cast and crew of Matilda, the Musical on an excellent run!
Through the 2019 Humble Hands project, $6,400 and four van loads of in-kind donations were collected for thirteen of Magnificat’s partner organizations. Throughout the four weeks of Advent, representatives from many of the organizations listed below visited Magnificat to speak with students about their work to provide and advocate for people living on the margins of society. Thank you to all students, parents, faculty, and staff who made this year’s project such a success! Chopping for Change Collaborative to End Human Trafficking Domestic Violence Shelter Dorothy Day House Edna House Migration and Refugee Services No More Deaths/Southside Worker Center Our Lady of Mount Carmel School Sonshine Children’s Center St. Colman Parish Outreach St. Patrick’s Community Meal Westside Catholic Center
We educate young women holistically to learn, lead, and serve in the spirit of Mary’s Magnificat. | MAGNIFICAT MAGAZINE
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SCHOOL NEWS
Twenty-Five Students Qualify for Ohio Seal of Biliteracy The Ohio Seal of Biliteracy is conferred on graduating high school seniors who demonstrate a high level of proficiency in English and at least one world language. We commend the students who have qualified for this honor for their commitment to Magnificat’s World Language program that strives to foster competency in cross-cultural communication and appreciation. The following members of the Class of 2019 received the Ohio Seal of Biliteracy upon graduation:
Magnificat Dance Training Company The Magnificat Dance Training company is a new co-curricular option within the dance program for students interested in honing their technical skills, no matter their level of experience. As the varsity and junior varsity Dance Teams have grown and competitions have increased over the last several years, Director of Dance Mrs. Jill Haller discovered a need to expand Magnificat’s dance program to include student dancers of all levels who want to receive more training. During the first semester, the company had technique classes two to three times per week, and in the second semester they rehearsed one jazz and one lyrical routine in preparation for competition and various community performances. Ms. Paige St. John ’15 coaches both Dance Teams and is the MDTC Program Coordinator. Regarding how this new program furthers Magnificat’s Mission, she said “MDTC falls right in line with our Mission of educating the whole person and encouraging student collaboration and leadership. Some students have been dancing for ten years and others have never taken a class before. It has been amazing to see the girls grow together.” Along with the Dance Team, the company competed at West Coast Dance Explosion in Cleveland February 7-9, where they also received additional technique classes from veteran dancers. In this inaugural competition for the company, they took first place in both divisions and also earned the Entertainment Award. The Dance Team also competed and brought home multiple overall and specialty awards, earning top honors in every category and division in which they competed, and Gwen Wojtkun ’20 received the highest score in the overall solo competition!
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Liliana Alton Alyssa Chambers Ava Fabian Gabriella Jabboure Emma Jankowski Margaret Kelly Emily Lopez Bridget McCourt Emily Pallaki Amanda Pastrick Kathleen Rosfelder Mary Sales Claire Smith Kaitlin Sweeney Maureen Van Oosten Alexandra Wojnar The following members of the Class of 2020 have already qualified to receive the award upon graduation this May: Carolina Alonso Mikaela Bonham Janisse Cruz Alexandra Dorinsky Gabrielle Epuran Pilar Khawaja Claire Martin Emma Pierce Ellie Taliak
MAGNIFICAT MAGAZINE | A MAGAZINE FOR ALUMNAE AND FRIENDS OF MAGNIFICAT HIGH SCHOOL | SPRING 2020
Eleven Students Receive Cleveland Institute of Art Scholastic Awards Congratulations to the following artists who received awards for their submissions to the Cleveland Institute of Art’s 2020 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards! This is the highest number of awards that Magnificat has received from the competition which recognizes the creative achievements of seventh through twelfth graders throughout northeast Ohio. This spring, all Gold Key pieces will be entered into the national Scholastic Awards competition, the winners of which will receive scholarships and national recognition. Special thanks to Art Department faculty members Mrs. Debbie Barlow, Ms. Julie Bellfiore, and Mrs. Alecia Janosik (Department Chair) for their mentorship of these talented artists. Abby Badar ’20 All Seeing Eye Photography Silver Key Grace Barrett ’20 Stacker Ring Set Jewelry Honorable Mention Chloe Becker ’20 Within Art Portfolio Gold Key Daniela DiSanto ’20 Draining Blush Photography Honorable Mention Lauren Janesz ’21 Melanin Digital Art Honorable Mention Eva Miller ’23 Up Close and Personal Fruit Pastel Drawing & Illustration Gold Key Morgan Mueller ’21 Identity Crisis Drawing & Illustration Silver Key Elyse Roggenburk ’20 Roxy The Boxer Ceramics & Glass Honorable Mention Adriana Schermaier ’21 Head in the Clouds Photography Honorable Mention Kerry Sponseller ’21 Head in the Clouds Architecture & Industrial Design Honorable Mention Beret Traum ’21 All Strings Attached Mixed Media Silver Key
Top left to right: All Seeing Eye Identity Crisis 2nd row left to right: Up Close and Personal Fruit Pastel Within 3rd row: All Strings Attached
We educate young women holistically to learn, lead, and serve in the spirit of Mary’s Magnificat. | MAGNIFICAT MAGAZINE
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CAMPUS ENHANCEMENTS
Brew Streaks Café Helps Students Develop Business & Marketing Skills Just in time for Night-in-Blue weekend, Magnificat’s Brew Streaks Café opened in the lobby of the Center for Performing Arts. Beginning in January 2019, Entrepreneurship students began researching the process for opening up a small business in the form of a coffee shop. They heard presentations from Magnificat’s food service provider, AVI Fresh, and the local sales representative of S&D Coffee & Tea, the world’s largest coffee supplier. After extensive research and taste-testing, the students developed the menu, with Magnificat’s long-standing commitment to fair trade and sustainability playing a major role in product selection. All Brew Streaks Café coffee and tea is certified fair trade and organic, and all cups, lids, and straws are compostable. AVI Fresh donated all the equipment for the coffee shop, and students played a leading role in ordering products to prepare for opening.
The Brew Streaks Café offers coffee, tea, pastries, as well as grab-and-go items.
The Marketing Club proposed potential business names which were brought to the student body for a vote, at which point the club developed a unique logo to be used for signage, marketing, and product design. Ailish Chambers ’20 was a student in the Entrepreneurship class that developed the business plan for Brew Streaks Café. In speaking about the experience, she said, “I learned the importance of taking risks and being persistent in achieving the goal that was established in creating the initial idea. I also learned that in order to have a successful business, it is important to adapt your plans based on what consumers are interested in. Being a contributor to a business that has done so well thus far has given me great entrepreneurship experience.” During the first week of business, sales were nearly double the amount that was originally budgeted. Members of the Business Club conduct account reconciliation on a weekly basis and staff the café during special events and Mitchell’s Mondays after school. Brew Streaks Café manager Mr. Bob Kunkle sees great potential for more students to gain business skills by volunteering at the café. Whether working as baristas or behind the scenes, the experience is a great addition to any résumé, especially as students seek part-time employment during college. Stop by for a delicious organic, fair trade cup of coffee or tea today!
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The Brew Streaks Café logo was designed by Bethany Eckman '20.
The Brew Streaks Café is open every school day from 7:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and during special events.
MAGNIFICAT MAGAZINE | A MAGAZINE FOR ALUMNAE AND FRIENDS OF MAGNIFICAT HIGH SCHOOL | SPRING 2020
New HVAC System Contributes to Science Learning When students arrived for their first day of classes in August, they were welcomed by classrooms and learning spaces that were cooler and brighter thanks to a new HVAC system and LED lighting. In the summer months leading up to this school year, Gardiner technicians worked day and night to transition Magnificat’s 64-year-old boiler heating system into a stateof-the-art energy-efficient heating and cooling system. The new custom-engineered design prevents excess energy use with a sensory air-flow system based on room occupancy, which will help reduce Magnificat’s carbon footprint. The new system will not only require less energy, but significantly less space; all four new high-efficiency boilers take up the approximate square footage of just one of the original boilers.
In addition to class presentations, Gardiner representatives have met with Magnificat’s STEM Club to discuss additional opportunities for collaboration, including field trips to Gardiner headquarters and touring the campus to learn more about the engineering behind the new HVAC system. Magnificat is grateful to Gardiner for their continued partnership and commitment to educating our students on energy efficiency!
NEW SYSTEM
OLD SYSTEM
Gardiner is partnering with Magnificat to use the new heating and cooling system as a learning opportunity for students interested in both environmental science and engineering. This semester, a team of Gardiner engineers presented to AP Environmental Science students as part of their unit on
energy. In addition to detailing the school’s new HVAC system, the team walked the students through the Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED) certification process. LEED is a holistic approach to construction that strives to make buildings as environmentally sustainable as possible. Ohio has the most LEED certified buildings in the country (313 in total), and in 2013, the Ohio Department of Education mandated that all new school buildings follow LEED-certified guidelines.
We educate young women holistically to learn, lead, and serve in the spirit of Mary’s Magnificat. | MAGNIFICAT MAGAZINE
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Motorcycles at Magnificat? Inside the New Mechanical Engineering Partnership with Motogo Cleveland
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he Sisters of the Humility of Mary would hardly recognize the convent garage at Magnificat these days. The space that used to house the Sisters’ cars was converted into a motorcycle garage, fully stocked with all the tools Magnificat students would need to disassemble and reassemble motorcycles as part of the new Introduction to Mechanical Engineering class offered through a partnership with Motogo Cleveland, the brain child of Ms. Molly Vaughan ’99 and her husband, Mr. Brian Schaffran.
Vaughan and Schaffran opened Skidmark Garage in 2015 as a way to create community among people who loved working on motorcycles but didn’t have the space or all the tools necessary to do so. As Skidmark was growing, they felt compelled to find a way to continue working with students and recalled an experience from when they were teachers at Saint Martin de Porres High School. The school would
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shut down regularly for a week so each teacher could share something about which he or she was passionate with students. Schaffran brought in a motorcycle and some tools, thinking they would tear down three bikes and put them back together in one week. But because none of the students had experience with tools, progress was much slower than he expected. At the end of the week, none of the motorcycles were put back together. Instead, he had to collect the “million little pieces” and prepare for class as usual the following week. From that experience came the idea for Motogo Cleveland, a mobile shop class that teaches students proper tool usage, measurement, calculations, and small engine operation and maintenance through a hands-on, industrial arts curriculum. With the mindset that all students benefit from knowing how machines work, but also with the understanding that many
MAGNIFICAT MAGAZINE | A MAGAZINE FOR ALUMNAE AND FRIENDS OF MAGNIFICAT HIGH SCHOOL | SPRING 2020
schools do not have the resources to offer an in-house shop class or to transport students to another location, they set out to bring shop class to the schools instead. As they began to strategize about how to launch this new part of their business, Vaughan said “Magnificat was important because after the community garage was succeeding, we were making a push to include women as we sought to create relationships that don’t naturally occur. As we were getting ready to launch this shop class, [we thought] ‘why not launch with women first and make a statement to the community about having all people included?’” Vaughan approached President Moira Clark ’77 with her idea, and Mrs. Clark did not hesitate to say yes. She wanted Magnificat to be the Motogo pilot school and committed the resources to make it happen. During the summer of 2018, Vaughan and Schaffran tested their concept with 7th and 8th grade girls during a week of Magnificat Enrichment Camp. Based on that success, it was Sr. Helen Jean Novy, HM who suggested using the convent garage space for a more permanent classroom setting, noting that the HM Sisters would be delighted to have that space used for STEM learning. Summer 2019 was spent preparing the garage to house the new Mechanical Engineering class using the Motogo curriculum. To Vaughan, the school’s investment in Motogo was especially meaningful. “[It showed] me that Magnificat never stopped supporting me. For them to totally trust— not just us, but to trust me —makes me feel like they support me now the same way they did when I was 16.” Magnificat’s first Mechanical Engineering class launched on August 26, 2019, at 7 a.m. This class actually meets before school with six students (five seniors and one sophomore) who arrived to class for the first time to find a garage that was empty with the exception of some tools. Their first task was to build their work space — the tool
benches, the bike lifts, all of it— from the ground up. Vaughan and Schaffran served as mentors to the students as they worked in teams of two and as a whole group to tear down three Honda CB350 motorcycles and put them back together by the end of the semester with only the bike’s instruction manual as a guide. “Every single girl was unafraid to grab the wrench,” Vaughan said. “And even though they had no idea what was happening, we could hand them the tools, and they communicated and worked together and just did it. They’re cooperative. They work together as a team. They encourage each other. The first time one of the girls was using the cordless drill, and they got one of the joints squared, they all cheered.” At the end of each class, the students had to answer two questions: “How did you fail today?” and “What did you learn?” This exercise served as a reminder that failure is often one’s best teacher and that failing at a specific task that day does not translate into a failing grade. On December 18, the students’ semester’s worth of work culminated in “Kick-Start Day,” when they attempted to start the motorcycles they had dismantled and put back together. The students, their parents, and faculty members cheered as two of the engines fully started, and the third turned over. The inaugural Mechanical Engineering class at Magnificat was so successful that enrollment for the second semester increased to eight students; and with their proof of concept, Vaughan and Schaffran are now scheduling other Northeast Ohio schools into 2021. “We are so grateful for the opportunity,” Schaffran said. “Just like Magnificat gives girls the confidence to conquer the world, it’s given me the confidence to know that what I’m doing is a good thing and the right thing; and Magnificat is such a leader and had such vision that they signed on first. And now there’s a line of schools wanting to bring us in.”
We educate young women holistically to learn, lead, and serve in the spirit of Mary’s Magnificat. | MAGNIFICAT MAGAZINE
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EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING The Global Classroom: Experiential Learning at Magnificat “It was so wonderful to experience Normandy with the students on such an important anniversary. We were able to reflect on the sacrifices that were made at those historic sites and appreciate their legacy.” - Mrs. Krista Slife
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ast summer, Magnificat students embarked on travel opportunities that would change them — the way they look at history, their commitment to preserving the environment, and their understanding of different cultures.
The Magnificat group visits Omaha Beach.
Magnificat students and faculty members Ms. Marilyn Arundel '76, Mrs. Joan Gigliotti, and Mrs. Krista Slife attending the Prix de la Liberte awards ceremony and conference.
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Last school year, two groups of World Language students submitted two Magnificat partner organizations to be considered for the Normandy for Peace Freedom Prize. Students from the Class of 2019 wrote proposals that outlined why No More Deaths and Talitha Khum should be considered for the prize, which recognizes individuals and organizations that advocate for freedom, peace, and human rights. Both groups of students received commendations for their proposals and were awarded a trip to France for the 75th anniversary of the Allied Forces’ landing on the beaches of Normandy on D-Day in 1944. On June 6, students and faculty members joined thousands from across the world who gathered at the beaches to commemorate the auspicious anniversary. They had the honor of hearing from Freedom Prize awardee Greta Thurnberg along with French Prime Minister Édouard Philippe, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, and United States Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi.
MAGNIFICAT MAGAZINE | A MAGAZINE FOR ALUMNAE AND FRIENDS OF MAGNIFICAT HIGH SCHOOL | SPRING 2020
In addition to the trip to Normandy, Magnificat students traveled with Mrs. Esther Hanicak to Granada, Spain, where they stayed with local families, attended school with their Spanish “sisters,” and immersed themselves in Spanish culture. Mrs. Esther Hanicak, Aurora Dzina ’20, Aja Mitchell ’20, and Mikaela Bonham ’20 bringing a little OHIO to the Mediterranean Sea in Málaga, Spain.
Students also traveled to the Pacific Northwest with science teachers Mrs. Heidi Paul and Mrs. Beth McBride ’90 where they studied local endemic ecosystems from the tide pools along the coastline to the rainforest in Olympic National Forest and all the way up to a glacier on Mt. Rainier. They also visited the Boeing Academy for STEM, the Boeing assembly warehouse, and the Future of Flight Aviation Center. Students white water rafted on the Wenatchee River and then spent time at the fish hatchery removing invasive plant species as a service project.
Magnificat students, accompanied by Mrs. Karen Bain ’86, Ms. Sadie Curtin, Mrs. Patty Schwarber ’77, and Mrs. Hannah SummervilleMiller also explored Berlin, Germany, and Prague, Czech Republic. Magnificat students reflect on the Holocaust at the Memorial to the Murdered Jews in Europe.
We educate young women holistically to learn, lead, and serve in the spirit of Mary’s Magnificat. | MAGNIFICAT MAGAZINE
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HM HISTORY AND HERITAGE Environmental Co-Curriculars Carry Forth HM Tradition of Sustainability In Pope Francis’ 2015 encyclical entitled Laudato Si: On Care for Our Common Home, he urges members of the church to recognize their moral responsibility to work toward greater environmental sustainability. Since the founding of the Sisters of the Humility of Mary in 1855, the congregation has taken this responsibility seriously — first through a commitment to sustainable farming on the Villa land and more recently in their efforts to become a certified organic farm while simultaneously advocating for local, national, and international policies that protect the planet. Magnificat’s Seeds of Service and Students for Sustainability clubs work to carry out those same values and practices by planting and harvesting vegetables in the Hoop House, educating the community about environmental sustainability, and putting policies into place to reduce Magnificat’s carbon footprint. The work of these co-curricular clubs played a critical role in Magnificat earning the honor of becoming a U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon School in 2018.
Abby Hope '22 completed her Sophomore Service requirement by tending to the Magnificat Hoop House under the direction of Mrs. Karen Ryan Tigue '85.
Previously known as Earth Club, Students for Sustainability started in 2009, the same year that a Faculty Sustainability Team was formed. By 2010, composting was incorporated into Magnificat’s waste management program, and the recycling program had expanded to include paper, plastic, glass, and aluminum. Thanks to a proposal brought forth by Students for Sustainability to the Leadership Team, since the fall of 2017, plastic water bottles have been eliminated from Magnificat’s beverage options in the Marian Commons. As the annual event that produces the most waste on campus, Nightin-Blue weekend has become the barometer to measure Magnificat’s progress with both recycling and composting. In 2011, Night-in-Blue produced only two bags of waste, ten bins of compost, and 20 bags of recycling. Since then, almost every year has produced just one bag of waste with varying compost and recycling numbers. Thus far in the 2019-2020 school year, 10,984 pounds of food and compostable products have been composted via Full Circle Organics, Magnificat’s composting service site that students visit each year. Science faculty member Mrs. Heidi Paul, who teaches Environmental Science and AP Environmental Science, has been the moderator of Students for Sustainability for 12 school years. When speaking about her role both in and outside of the classroom, she says, “My goal for Environmental and Sustainability students is to create an understanding of the world around them that helps them notice the intricacies of how all life is connected. Our care for creation begins with awe, wonder and respect, not ownership and exploitation.”
Magnificat's Seeds of Service Club harvested 224 pounds of food from the Hoop House in 2019.
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The value of noticing with awe, wonder, and respect extends to the Seeds of Service Club that tends to Magnificat’s indoor and outdoor foliage along with the vegetables and herbs in the campus Hoop House. Moderated by Horticulture Program Manager Mrs. Karen Ryan Tigue ’85
MAGNIFICAT MAGAZINE | A MAGAZINE FOR ALUMNAE AND FRIENDS OF MAGNIFICAT HIGH SCHOOL | SPRING 2020
and Mrs. Karen Duffy Morley ’78, Seeds of Service has grown from 14 students in the 2018-2019 school year to 40 students this year. From the seeds that were planted last spring, 224 pounds of food were harvested throughout the summer and fall, 75 percent of which was donated to Rocky River Meals on Wheels and 15 percent of which was used by AVI Fresh in Magnificat’s kitchen to produce student meals. The remaining 10 percent was used by Magnificat Outreach to cook meals for women and children living at the Domestic Violence Shelter. The annual harvest includes cucumbers, tomatoes, eggplant, onion, and a variety of peppers and herbs. This year, the seeds will be planted according to the needs of the AVI Chef and our partner organizations. Co-presidents Emily Factora ’22 and Gabriella Fernandez ’22 shared what their involvement in the club has meant to them: “Seeds of Service has really helped in the development of Magnificat’s Mission in our lives. Planting, harvesting, and donating our produce to Meals on Wheels and the Domestic Violence Shelter has helped strengthen our commitment to service and our understanding of leadership and teamwork.” A major component of Seeds of Service is the club’s relationship with the HM Villa in Pennsylvania. Each Spring, students go on retreat at the Villa to reflect on the connections between faith and care for Earth. During the retreat, they assist the Sisters with seed planting in the greenhouse. Then, every fall, Magnificat students return to the Villa to volunteer for Harvest Day — a community event that draws thousands who purchase organic fruits and vegetables with proceeds directly benefiting the ongoing sustainability work of the Sisters. In describing how HM values are connected to the club's work, Mrs. Tigue says, “The simple act of planting a seed, and growing and caring for that plant stretches far back to our connection with the founding Sisters at the Villa. There is a rhythm to nature that has been compromised with the changes to our climate, and I believe that this generation, in living our Mission to learn, lead, and serve, can have a major impact now and in the future.”
Sr. Debbie Barker, HM Dedicates Ministry of Prayer to Magnificat Community Since she was a child, Sr. Debbie Barker, HM knew she wanted to be a teacher, and the draw to religious life began when she was a teenager. She grew up with eight siblings and pictured a life of marriage with several children until she joined the youth group at her parish. “I was drawn to religious life through the youth group and the relationship with Jesus that I developed during that time. Through that experience, I learned to know myself and pay attention to what I really valued and believed, which was a journey that took quite a bit of soul searching.” She participated in retreats for women who were discerning religious life, and by the age of 20, she had made the decision to enter the Sisters of the Humility of Mary — a decision that she has never second-guessed 42 years later. As a Sister, she continued to fulfill her call to be a teacher, and she taught first and second graders at Catholic grade schools in Kent and the greater Cleveland area for 20 years. “I knew right away that I wanted to teach those grade levels because they are such sponges and are so eager to learn. I tried to instill in them a desire to reach and not just get by, and it was amazing to see how they would grow from the beginning of the year to the end. I always grew just as much as they did.” After teaching, Sr. Debbie worked at Heartbeats, a ministry of the HM Sisters dedicated to empowering women artisans in developing countries by selling their fair trade products in the United States. She also volunteered as a tutor for students learning English as a second language until retiring in 2013. For many years, an HM Sister has taken on the role of praying for Magnificat students, faculty, and staff. Sr. Rita Costello served as Magnficat’s pray-er until she passed away at the age of 84 in October. Sr. Rita dedicated 64 years of her life as a vowed member of the Sisters of the Humility of Mary, six of which she spent as a Magnificat Sr. Debbie Barker cont...
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Continued Sr. Debbie Barker
Students created a basket of art and greeting cards to express their gratitude to Sr. Debbie for her devotion to praying for the Magnificat community.
teacher — her very first assignment as a Sister. We featured Sr. Rita in our Summer 2019 magazine, when she had just taken on the role as Magnificat’s “pray-er.” Upon Sr. Rita’s passing, Sr. Debbie was invited to step into the role of praying for the Magnificat community. In talking about what this role means to her, she says: “It’s such a privilege to be asked to do this, it truly is, because these students are the women we are counting on to make the world a kinder, gentler, and stronger place. I pray every day for strength, courage, and kindness for both the students and the faculty. I often hear about the good works that the students and faculty are doing in the community, which is truly edifying to me, especially in today’s world.” This semester, Sr. Debbie requested that the students write down and send her their special intentions, which she will incorporate into her daily prayer.
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ATHLETICS
Magnificat Tennis: OTCA Division I State Runner Up. L to R: Assistant Coach Annie Foliano, Assistant Coach Lauren O'Malley, Kayra Koprulu '22, Elizabeth Coyne '21, Alley Stoehr '22, Grace Bauer '20, Olivia Rondini '20, Caroline Moritz '23, Audrey Smitek '22, Lexi Ospelt '22, Brigid O'Neil '21, Head Coach Chris Johnson; Back Row: Assistant Coach Brendon Hurd; Not Pictured: Assistant Coach Bobbe Bennett, Assistant Coach Chelsea Girgash
Fall Sports Recap CROSS COUNTRY: 8th Place in the District Meet; First Place in the Hawken Invitational; 2nd Place in McQuaid Invitational in New York FIELD HOCKEY: Finished District Semi-Finalist
9-7-1 Overall and 7-4-1 in their league;
GOLF: 3rd Place in Sectional Tournament; 11th Place in District Tournament (5th Straight Season qualifying for the District Tournament); First Place in the Clyde Invitational ROWING: Competed in several regattas through the fall season with many great results SOCCER: Finished
12-3-2 Overall
TENNIS: OTCA Division I State Runner Up (4th Straight Season making the OTCA Division I Final Four); Olivia Rondini ’20 and Audrey Smitek ’22 qualified in singles for the OHSAA Division I State Tournament VOLLEYBALL: Finished 18-7 Overall; OHSAA Division I District Runner Up
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Winter Sports Recap
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VARSITY BASKETBALL: (OHSAA Division I District Champions) - first District Title since 2016, Northeast Lakes Division I All-District: 2nd Team - Clare Chambers ’21 Honorable Mention: Ailish Chambers ’20, Cameron Jones ’22, Mollie Laspisa ’22, Brenna Varga ’20 Coach of the Year: Danny Gallagher JV Basketball:
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11-8 SWIMMING & DIVING: 5-5-1 (6th Place In OHSAA Division I
Freshman Basketball: District Meet)
4 OHSAA Division I State Meet Qualifiers: Emilia Guilfoyle ’20, Maggie Karabatsos ’21, Grace Ryan ’21, Taylor Stockard ’22
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GYMNASTICS: (4th Place in OHSAA Sectional Meet/9th in OHSAA District Meet) OHSAA Individual State Meet Qualifier: Kaley Miklich ’20
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BOWLING: Overall, in Greater Cleveland Interscholastic Bowling League (8th Place in OHSAA Division I Sectional Tournament) OHSAA Division I District Tournament Qualifier: Mia Sayles ’23 (Second bowler in Magnificat history to qualify for District Tournament) INDOOR TRACK & FIELD: OATCCC Indoor Track & Field State Meet Qualifier: Alexis Brusio ’20
Top: Magnificat gymnast Kaley Miklich '20 competed on bars at the OHSAA Individual State Meet. Above: Alexis Brusio '20 represented the Indoor Track & Field team and competed in shot put and weight throw at the OATCCC Indoor Track & Field State Meet. Left: Magnificat OHSAA Division I State Meet swimmers L to R: Grace Ryan '21, Emilia Guilfoyle '20, Taylor Stockard '22, and Maggie Karabatsos '21. We educate young women holistically to learn, lead, and serve in the spirit of Mary’s Magnificat. | MAGNIFICAT MAGAZINE
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ATHLETICS Student Spotlight: Ailish Chambers ’20 Magnificat has given Ailish Chmabers ’20 many opportunities to learn, lead, and serve. She is a Eucharistic Minister through Campus Ministry and a member of the Magnificat Ambassadors Club, National Honor Society, and Student Council. Through these roles and as a member of the basketball and soccer teams (she has served as Captain for both teams), Ailish has “learned how to lead by example, communicate effectively, and take responsibility for [her] actions.”
Copy to come
It was a decision she made during her junior year, however, that would put her on the path to competing in track & field at the University of Notre Dame. Always an active athlete, Ailish Irish danced and played basketball and soccer year-round. Her freshman year at Magnificat, she decided to stop dancing to focus on soccer and basketball. Only after making the decision not to pursue basketball or soccer at the collegiate level did she stop playing those sports in the spring. To stay in shape during that time, she picked up track during the spring of her junior year and found tremendous success. Ailish would tie the school record in the 300-meter hurdle event at the District Meet, then go on to beat it at the Regional Meet. She went on to compete at the State Championship meet and the New Balance Outdoor National Meet. Her success caught the attention of college recruiters, causing her to reconsider whether or not she wanted to pursue a collegiate athletic career. “I never thought it would turn into something that allows me to compete at the Division I collegiate level, but I’m so glad it did.”
When she arrives on Notre Dame’s campus this fall, Ailish plans to pursue a business degree and perhaps attend law school after a few years in the workforce. Her Genesis experience with Magnificat Board Chairperson Colleen Moran O’Neil ’88 at Calfee, Halter & Griswold, exposed her to various practice areas like estate planning, corporate law, and family law. We wish Ailish much success in her academic and athletic endeavors at the University of Notre Dame!
Fall Signing Day Eleven members of the Class of 2020 signed their national letters of intent to pursue athletics at the collegiate level on November 15, 2019: Christin Baumbick, soccer, The Ohio State University; Elizabeth Bebie, soccer, St. Bonaventure University; Katie Butler, gymnastics, Eastern Michigan University; Ailish Chambers, track & field, University of Notre Dame; Emily Elliott, lacrosse, Indiana University of Pennsylvania; Caroline Kucia, volleyball, Cleveland State University; Alexis Moore, rowing, University of Rhode Island; Olivia Rondini, tennis, Bryant University; Antonia Trickett, lacrosse, University of Akron; Brenna Varga, basketball, Baldwin Wallace University; Elizabeth Ward, volleyball, Seton Hill University.
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MAGNIFICAT MAGAZINE | A MAGAZINE FOR ALUMNAE AND FRIENDS OF MAGNIFICAT HIGH SCHOOL | SPRING 2020
The Magnificat Rowing Team with Sr. Helen Jean Novy, HM at the christening of their new fleet of boats.
Magnificat Rowing Team Christens New Fleet of Boats “Sister Claire, give us determination and pray for us! Mother Anna, give us perseverance and pray for us!” These words were part of the blessing given by Sr. Helen Jean Novy, HM on Sunday, February 23, over a fleet of seven new boats that will be used by Magnificat’s rowing team. The fleet includes four boats of eight, one boat of four, and two pair boats. Each boat was named after someone or something significant to the school or the Rowing program. The Sister Helen Jean is named after Sr. Helen Jean Novy, HM, who has dedicated 45 years in service to Magnificat. The Sister Claire Young is named after the former Physical Education teacher and Principal who saved people from flooding by rowing a boat during her time as a missionary in Bangladesh. The Mother Anna is named after Mother Anna Tabourat, one of the founders of the Sisters of the Humility of Mary, who came from France to start the Sisters’ ministry in America. The Blue Streak is named after the school’s mascot, and the Fifty-Five is named after the year of Magnificat’s founding, 1955. The 2016 is significant because 2016 was the inaugural season for the Magnificat Rowing program. Our Lady of the Lake is the name of the church that once sat on the land that is now The Foundry, where the Rowing team practices.
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REUNION Thank You to the Alumnae who Attended Reunion 2019! More than 325 alumnae returned to Magnificat for Reunion events on September 28, 2019. Alumnae lacrosse players commenced the events with a friendly game with Magnificat students on Karnatz Family Field. Later in the day, alumnae gathered for a beautiful Mass planned by the women of the Class of 1969 to memorialize classmates. After Mass, women gathered with their classmates in the Marian Commons and the LGI to celebrate together, take advantage of a raffle to benefit the Angels-in-Blue fund, and to have fun in the photo booth. Tours led by Student Ambassadors gave Reunion guests the opportunity to walk down memory lane and to see all that is new at Magnificat. Magnificat is grateful to all the women who returned for Reunion and to those who made gifts to The Magnificat Fund for the Reunion Challenge. The Class of 1969, with 28 percent of the women making gifts to The Magnificat Fund, edged out Magnificat’s first graduating class, the Class of 1959, to win the Reunion Giving Challenge.
Reunion 2020 Join us September 26 when the classes of 1960, 1965, 1970, 1975, 1980, 1985, 1990, 1995, 2000, 2005, 2010, and 2015 will celebrate milestones together! All alumnae are invited to join us for a special weekend of activities, which will begin with the Magnificat Presidential Awards Dinner on Friday, September 25th. Please save the dates!
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PRESIDENTIAL AWARDS
Inaugural Presidential Awards Honor Five Dedicated to Magnificat’s Mission Magnificat celebrated the contributions of five individuals who have devoted many years of service to the school and its Mission– Maureen Karnatz Smith ’81 and Steve Smith, Kathleen Berry ’73, Sr. Helen Jean Novy, HM, and Chris Heinzmann – at its inaugural Presidential Awards Dinner on September 27, 2019, at The Music Box Supper Club on the east bank of The Flats. The Magnificat Award recognizes a family, corporation, organization, or person who has been committed to the Mission of Magnificat High School and has provided substantial support to the school over many years. Maureen and Steve Smith exemplify these attributes. Maureen served on the Board of Directors at Magnificat from 2008-2017, including as Board Chair from 2014-2017; she has also been a member of the Alumnae Board, and served as its president from 2008 to 2009. Maureen and Steve are the proud parents of two Magnificat alumnae, Meghan ’09 and Bridget ’15, and son Kevin, a graduate of St. Ignatius High School. In addition to the time and service that they have dedicated to the Magnificat Community, the Karnatz and Smith families’ generosity has contributed significantly to the education and life of our students, most notably through scholarship support and the gift of the Karnatz Family Field. The Alumnae of Award of Excellence honors an alumna who is dedicated to living Mary’s Magnificat, exemplifies the Magnificat Mission of service and leadership, is accomplished in her field, and is established as a prominent leader in her community. This year’s Alumnae Award of Excellence was presented to Kathleen Berry ’73. Kathleen has served on Magnificat’s Alumnae Board for many years, and was the president from 1985-1986. She has volunteered as a representative for her class’ Reunions and has tirelessly committed her time as a Gala Committee Member. For many years, she has rallied her class to contribute significantly to support tuition assistance, and she has volunteered and facilitated several events for alumnae and friends, helping to engage thousands in our community. The Sr. Carol Anne Smith, HM Award is presented to a former or current faculty or staff member who models and promotes the Mission, heritage, and core values of Magnificat High School. Sr. Helen Jean Novy, HM has spent 45 years of her
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55-year career serving Magnificat as a teacher, Director of Curriculum, Interim President, and currently as the Vice President of Mission. In the summer of 2019, she celebrated her 60th anniversary of joining the Sisters of the Humility of Mary. Without a doubt, one of the most enthusiastic advocates of Magnificat’s students, alumnae, faculty, and staff, Sr. Helen Jean has dedicated her career to supporting our students, deepening the faith-filled life of the entire community, and ensuring that Magnificat’s curriculum, campus spaces, and educational approach are on the cutting edge of best practices in education. Thanks to her leadership and example, all aspects of Magnificat’s education and programming are focused on delivering the very best to our students and striving to open our doors even wider to welcome more young women into our community. The True Blue Volunteer of the Year Award honors a volunteer who has shown an overwhelming commitment to Magnificat High School. Chris Heinzmann and his wife Eva are the proud parents of five daughters, three current students—Ainsleigh ’20, Ellerie ’21, and Quincy ’23 — and two Magnificat graduates —Hanleigh ’15 and Grace ’18. Chris has gone above and beyond for Magnificat through the countless hours that he has dedicated to the Fathers’ Club over the last 11 years. Last year, as president of the Fathers’ Club, Chris coordinated all behind-the-scenes logistics for Night-in-Blue and our Lenten fish-fry dinners, from many months of planning to setting up bingo tables and frying the fish himself. Always a friendly face, Chris has never stopped saying “Anything you need, I’m here to help.” He is our go-to person, always saying yes and grateful for the opportunity to help support Magnificat in any way he can. Thanks to each of our awardees’ dedication to this community, we are able to provide our young women with an education characterized by best practices in 21st-century learning, state-of-the-art campus spaces, holistic leadership programming, and a faith-filled community that both supports and challenges. We are deeply grateful for their steadfast commitment to our Mission of educating young women to learn, lead, and serve in the spirit of Mary’s Magnificat.
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Left: Chris Heinzmann, Kathleen Berry '73, Sr. Helen Jean Novy, HM, Maureen Karnatz Smith '81, Steve Smith, and Moira Clark '77 Right: Kathy Matthews, Sheila Berry, Gretchen Nock
Left: Gordon Friedrich and Kathy Janovsky Friedrich '66 and Maura McCarthy McLinden '73 Right: Sr. Helen Jean Novy, HM and her former students.
Left: Sr. Ruthmary Powers, HM; Sr. Elaine Schindler, HM; Sr. Helen Jean Novy, HM; Sr. Carole Anne Griswold, HM; Sr. Josie Chrosniak, HM; Sr. Margaret Marszal, HM; Sr. Mary Ann Spangler, HM; Sr. Dolores Lucas, HM; Sr. Carol Anne Smith, HM. Right: Liz Karnatz O'Callaghan '91, Anne Karnatz Manno '82, Lisa Mather Karnatz '84, and Patty Karnatz Ramey '88
Left: Therese Berry, Ron Peyton, Nancy Berry Peyton, Sheila Berry Right: Carol and Al Buchta, Sr. Mary Ann Spangler, HM; Carol Karnatz
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ADVANCEMENT
Magnificat’s First Giving Day Is a Huge Success On Thursday, February 20, 2020, Magnificat launched its first-ever Giving Day, a 24-hour fundraising challenge to the Magnificat community to support The Magnificat Fund, which supports every facet of student life, including tuition assistance, academic innovation, and co-curricular activities.
Members of the Class of 1964 came to campus to support students in making their gifts to The Magnificat Fund on Giving Day. As they made their gifts, students were asked to share why they support Magnificat.
Months of planning went into the school’s first Giving Day, engaging alumnae through the Class Agent program and educating students on the importance of giving back. On Giving Day, that planning paid off, as the community generously supported the school in many ways — through gifts to The Magnificat Fund; by making our message viral and sharing it via email and social media; creating videos to spread the word, as the Alumnae Board did; and by coming to campus to support the students as they made their gifts, as members of the class of 1964 and 1997 did. Nearly 1,100 students, parents, alumnae and friends made gifts to The Magnificat Fund on Giving Day that totaled $77,649. The tremendous support was truly humbling, and we look forward to making Giving Day an annual event.
The Magnificat Fund Supports Innovative Curriculum The commitment to innovative curriculum is one of the hallmarks of a Magnificat education, and The Magnificat Fund directly supports the school’s ability to explore new opportunities for students to learn, lead, and serve in the spirit of Mary’s Magnificat. For example, The Magnificat Fund allowed us to convert the HM sisters’ convent garage into the state-of-the-art learning space and to partner with Motogo Cleveland to develop Magnificat’s first mechanical engineering curriculum. Through disassembling and reassembling motorcycles, students like Suilleabhain O’Connor ’22 learn the scientific and technical competencies needed to analyze, build, and maintain small engine vehicles. See pages 10-11 for more information on our new Mechanical Engineering program. The Magnificat Fund allows us to continue to expand our programmatic offerings, campus spaces, and scholarship dollars for current and future Blue Streaks. Every student benefits from The Magnificat Fund, and every gift makes a difference. Please consider a gift today!
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“The teachers, staff, and students [at Magnificat] have pushed me to be the best version of myself that I can be. They have pushed me farther than I thought I could go, and they have been there when I needed help or guidance. The Magnificat community has truly made an impact on my life, by helping me become who I am today and who I will be in the future.” - Suilleabhain O’Connor ’22
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Thank You to our Generous Sponsors! TRUE BLUE SPONSORS
Biz-Edge Rhonda & Tom Richlovsky
BLUE AND WHITE SPONSORS
Calfee Halter & Griswold Colleen Moran O’Neil ’88 & Michael O’Neil Roundstone
BLUE STREAK SPONSORS
Mark & Carol Bodnar
Angie & Ramon Malaya Carol & Charles Rini, Sr. Foundation
Hundreds Join Together During First-Ever Virtual Gala When on-campus classes and events were canceled due to COVID-19, faculty and staff got creative about how to move forward with gatherings that could no longer take place as planned, including Come Sail Away— Magnificat’s 31st Annual Gala in honor of Sr. Helen Jean Novy, HM as she embarks on her retirement. On Saturday, March 21, Magnificat launched it’s first-ever virtual ‘Gala’ that would take place over five days, giving the broader Magnificat community an opportunity to join in the festivities from the comfort and safety of their own homes. The five-minute video that was to be shown at the Gala in honor of Sr. Helen Jean was instead emailed to over 10,000 alumnae, parents, past parents, and friends, with an invitation to donate in Sister’s honor to support tuition assistance for over 60% of Magnificat families who qualify. ‘Guests’ also had the chance to bid on nearly 100 Silent Auction packages and enter into a 50/50 raffle and a “Two Tickets to Paradise” raffle for a four-night stay in Bermuda for two. Although nothing can compare to an in-person celebration, it was incredible to see the widespread support of the generous Magnificat community throughout the Gala, which concluded on Wednesday, March 25. Over 400 people donated, bid on auction items, purchased raffle tickets, and sent notes of gratitude for the gifts Sr. Helen Jean has brought to their lives throughout her 45 years at Magnificat. Thank you to our sponsors and to all who joined us in this new venture! Once oncampus classes and gatherings have resumed, the Magnificat community will be invited to an in-person celebration of Sr. Helen Jean. We look forward to seeing you then!
DEEP BLUE SEA SPONSORS
The John & Mary Bello Family Megen West Berry ’82 & Martin Berry CBIZ Investment Advisory Services, LLC Chambers Funeral Home Cleveland Clinic Katie Redmon Cooke ’87 & Meg Jeffers Rowe ’87 Covia - Christina & Brian Richardson The D’Amore Tatman Group & Casey’s Irish Imports, Inc. Frantz Ward Gardiner Mary Ellen & Rich Huesken Hunter International Recruiting Huntington Bank Diann Dellafiora Jenne ’89 & Dean Jenne PolyOne - Lisa & Bob Kunkle Julie & Sean Miller Moen NFP The Nock Family River City Wood - Lisa Pellman Spicer ’90 & Ryan Spicer Sisters of the Humility of Mary Maureen Karnatz Smith ’81 & Stephen Smith
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Building Excellence Together Campaign Co-Chair Update
Student Ambassadors greet guests at the Building Excellence Together kick-off. Sr. Toby Lardie, HM tells the audience what inspired the Sisters of the Humility of Mary to make a $1 million lead gift to the campaign. Lauren Gray '20 shares with the audience how Magnificat taught her to learn, lead, and serve. The Building Excellence Together Campaign Committee.
Dear Friends of Magnificat: Thank you to the nearly 200 alumnae, parents, friends, and faculty who joined us on October 23, 2019, to kick off Building Excellence Together: The Campaign for Magnificat. President Moira Clark ’77 spoke to the hard work that laid the foundation for this public phase of the campaign, which is focused on raising funds for Magnificat’s Center for Science Exploration. Sr. Toby Lardie, President of the Sisters of the Humility of Mary, remarked on the crucial role Magnificat plays in carrying on the Sisters’ legacy of educating young women “to bring more abundant life to others through leadership and service.” We are especially grateful to the Sisters, who donated the $1-million lead gift to the Center for Science Exploration. It is with deep gratitude that we share with you the progress of Building Excellence Together: The Campaign for Magnificat. Thanks to a surge in campaign commitments after our launch on October 23, 2019, we are now at 91 percent of our $4 million goal for the Center for Science Exploration. While we have made significant progress, our students are counting on us to meet our goal. Now is the time to join us in support of Building Excellence Together, which will ensure that the Magnificat tradition of educational excellence remains strong for generations to come. If you would like more information about how you can make a difference in the Building Excellence Together campaign, please contact Amy Kubacki, Vice President of Advancement at 440.331.1572 x263 or akubacki@maghs.org. Sincerely,
Ann Litzler Coyne ’88
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Terry Coyne
Caroline Lee
Joe Lee
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Interdisciplinary Science Lab
Naming Opportunities for the Center for Science Exploration There are a number of ways that you can support the Center for Science Exploration. Naming opportunities, including the Science Learning Commons and Science Learning Spaces, are still available.
STEM Workshop
Contact Amy Kubacki, VP of Advancement at 440.331.1572 x263 or akubacki@maghs.org.
Center for Science Exploration
Physics Lab
Innovation Lab
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Building Excellence Together
For the Leitch Family, Philanthropy is Generational information, there is a higher likelihood that they will enter these careers.” After graduating from Magnificat, Megan studied Communications and Business at Villanova University, and then went on to earn her MBA in Strategic Management & Human Resources at Temple University in Philadelphia. Jan and Jeff raised their family — Megan and two sons Patrick and Kevin who both graduated from St. Ignatius High School— in Lakewood and they sent all three children to Ruffing Montessori, where Jan worked for 25 years. Coincidentally, in July of 2018, Patrick married Magnificat alumna Carrie Wagner '05. The Leitch’s commitment to and support of Magnificat has spanned many decades. Jan’s parents sent both The Leitch Family from left to right: Kevin Leitch, Jeff Leitch, Jan Duffy Leitch ’68, of their daughters to Magnificat —Jan Megan Leitch Townsend ’00, Carrie Wagner ’05, Patrick Leitch. Photo Credit: Bill Morley and Karen Duffy Morley ’78, who is a faculty member in Magnificat’s Theology Department. Twenty years after graduating from Magnificat, Megan Leitch As a member of the Class of 1968, Jan has served as an Townsend ’00 still credits her initial interest in math and ambassador for Magnificat for many years as a member of science to the classes and women role models that she was reunion committees and by encouraging her fellow alumnae introduced to during high school. “When I think back about to support Magnificat’s annual fund, now The Magnificat my experience, my classmates and I received encouragement Fund. When Megan started as a freshman in 1996, Jan and from teachers in the STEM space and beyond that I don’t know Jeff became actively involved as parent volunteers. Jeff would have happened in a different environment,” Megan went on to serve on the Board of Directors from 2003 to said. She serves as the Director of Women in Technology 2012 and as Chair of the Board from 2007-2010, and Jan for PricewaterhouseCoopers in Philadelphia, and she is the and Jeff both served as co-chairs for the campaign that daughter of Building Excellence Together campaign honorary funded the SurroundLearningTM renovations of the Marian chairs Jan Duffy Leitch ’68 and Jeff Leitch. Commons and the Humility of Mary Center in 2013. And, Megan and her husband Andrew decided to support the in 2012, they received the Magnificat Award which honors campaign for similar reasons as Jan and Jeff; they understand a family, corporation, organization, or person who has the impact of faith-based, all-girl education and they been committed to Magnificat’s Mission and has provided believe Magnificat’s new Center for Science Exploration will substantial support to the school over many years. encourage more students to enter into STEM careers, where Regarding the impact of giving to Magnificat, Jan says, women are significantly underrepresented. “The amount of “All funds that come into the school directly support people who decide to pursue technology as a career is much women’s education and women’s leadership development less than the growth rate, and significantly less for women in an environment where students have the opportunity to and people of color,” Megan says. “ If women are encouraged explore their faith freely and openly.” to do this, if there is the appropriate curriculum and access to
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The Leitches support several Catholic schools and organizations on Cleveland’s west side because they believe in organizations that stay true to their mission. “As Catholic schools face the reality of a diminishing presence of vowed religious, they must ask themselves how to carry forth the charism. Magnificat has done a spectacular job of instilling in the students the charism of the Sisters of the Humility of Mary. The stamp of the Sisters remains here and the students understand that, which is why we choose to invest in Magnificat.”
Megan and Andrew choose to give to Magnificat and other small nonprofit organizations that have touched them personally because they understand and can see the impact of their gift. Regarding why she is supporting Building Excellence Together, Megan said, “When I heard about the changes that are happening in the school with the science spaces and curriculum, I realized Magnificat is the perfect place to give. My career is focused on making these careers more accessible to women; I know the impact Magnificat had on me and I know what it can do for today’s young women.”
The Schroeder Family Aims to Increase Educational Access through Endowed Scholarship For Michael and Molly Schroeder, sending their daughters Eleanor ’16 and Anna ’20 to Magnificat was an easy choice. To them, Michael’s mother, Margaret Brown SchroederHvizda ’60, was a ringing endorsement for the school, and they believed that it would be the right place for their daughters as well. “Magnificat is an educational organization doing a great job educating young women in preparation for college or whatever vocation they may choose. [The school] delivers this great educational opportunity within the Catholic faith. Both [of] our daughters felt secure, comfortable, and more focused in the all-girls setting of Magnificat.” As Magnificat parents, they have dedicated their time to supporting Eleanor’s soccer and lacrosse pursuits and Anna’s commitment to the Magnificat dance program. They have also given their time as members of the annual Magnificat Gala committee and the Building Excellence Together Campaign Committee. Strong believers in education’s ability to positively change communities, Michael and Molly focus their philanthropy on organizations — locally, nationally, and internationally— where their contributions open doors for students who might not otherwise be able to access those educational opportunities. It is in that spirit that Michael and Molly directed their Building Excellence Together campaign contribution to
the Magnificat Endowment for the establishment of a scholarship fund. “While supporting strong educational opportunities for our own children,” they said, “we recognize that not all young women have the resources within their family to access a place like Magnificat. Michael and Molly Schroeder We believe that economic background should not be a disqualifier for an all-girl, Catholic education like Magnificat.” They hope the scholarships distributed from their gift will reduce the cost of tuition for young women who did not think a Magnificat education was within their financial reach. “Quite frankly,” Michael and Molly said, “it [was] hard to pass on such a great opportunity to give where your gift will have an immediate and long-lasting impact.”
We educate young women holistically to learn, lead, and serve in the spirit of Mary’s Magnificat. | MAGNIFICAT MAGAZINE
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Building Excellence Together
Reimagining Science Spaces and Curriculum at Magnificat For Magnificat’s Science faculty, the Center for Science Exploration opens a world of possibility — for increased student exposure to scientific disciplines, for interdisciplinary collaboration among faculty members, for expanding the science curriculum. In its current configuration, the scientific disciplines are on different ends of the second-floor hallway, with upperlevel physics, marine science, and environmental science on the east end and lower-level biology and chemistry on the west end. This leaves little opportunity for freshmen and sophomores to become introduced to the work being done in these upper-level courses. Further, the science classrooms lack the physical flexibility necessary to advance their scientific investigations. For example, when it is time for physics teacher Mrs. Carolyn Wanzor to teach her unit on robotics, she has to move the robotic equipment from the second floor to a first floor space so the students have enough physical room in which to conduct their work. The immovable lab tables in her classroom prevent her from doing the robotics unit in that space. In the new Center for Scientific Exploration, all of the science classrooms will be clustered together in one area, allowing students to see other science classes in action and exposing them to scientific disciplines they might choose to pursue later in their high school careers. Through engineering and design, the reimagined spaces will also further the application of science. Science department chair, Mrs. Lori Koss said, “Real-world problems will be tackled in multiple contexts through innovative thinking, serendipitous learning, and conceptual understanding.” The new Center for Scientific Exploration will also allow for increased interdisciplinary collaboration among science faculty members, who are currently housed in two different faculty spaces in the building. In the new space, the shared teacher prep space will make it easier to vertically align curriculum. Further, all lab equipment will be in one central location, and flexibly-designed lab rooms will allow teachers to adapt their physical spaces to the demands of the curriculum. The science faculty sees the investment in the science spaces as an extension of SurroundLearning®— an acknowledgement of the importance of physical spaces to scientific investigation and an invitation for them to embark on cross-cutting concepts, distinctive strategies, and unique teaching techniques that will empower and engage students.
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Magnificat’s science faculty members have been integral to the research and visioning process, working with the educational architects at Fielding Nair International (FNI) on the design concepts to ensure that we maximize these new state-of-the-art science spaces. And, as part of the research and visioning process, FNI hosted Discovery Workshops with alumnae in the STEM fields, students, and parents in order to gather input about what 21st-century science learning at Magnificat might look like. Lori Koss said, “I believe these new spaces will present countless opportunities for studentcentered learning where our students actively participate in a wide range of citizen science, field studies, microscopy techniques, exclusive laboratory experiments and inquests, technology-based investigations, collaborative and independent hands-on practices and executions.” Mrs. Heidi Paul, who teaches a number of environmental science classes, looks forward to expanding the science curriculum as a result of the new Center for Science Exploration. “I hope the long term impact is the continued growth of the science curriculum,” she said. “We added two new classes this year and hope the space will allow us to continue to grow.”
MAGNIFICAT MAGAZINE | A MAGAZINE FOR ALUMNAE AND FRIENDS OF MAGNIFICAT HIGH SCHOOL | SPRING 2020
LEARN, LEAD, SERVE ALUMNAE LIVING OUR MISSION IN THE WORLD Alumnae in Dentistry For many women who were taught to learn, lead, and serve at Magnificat, a career in dentistry was an easy choice. Inspired by their love of science and their commitment to service, more than 15 alumnae (of whom we are aware) are practicing dentistry or are currently enrolled in dental school.
Mallory Alexander ’13, Katelyn Jakyma ’14, Kayla McNamara ’15, Christina Negray ’14, and Mary Whitmore ’10, all currently enrolled in dental school at The Ohio State University, credit Magnificat’s rigorous curriculum and teachers like Mrs. Karen Bain ’86, Miss Betty Dabrowski (deceased), Mrs. Carol Fedor, and Mrs. Lori Koss for preparing them for the challenges of dental school. For Jennifer Lowe Melzak ’03 and Erin Carr ’11, it was the Magnificat Genesis experience that helped them discern their career paths. “I always knew I wanted to pursue a career in healthcare, but [I] wasn’t sure the route I would take,” Carr said. “For my Genesis project, I shadowed various healthcare professionals, including a nurse, a physician, an ophthalmologist, a pharmacist, and a dentist. I quickly learned that dentistry was the path I wanted to pursue.” The dentist Melzak shadowed for her Genesis experience exposed her to multiple specialty practices so she could see the many facets of dentistry. Today, she is a partner at the Cincinnati dental practice where she began her career in 2013, and is in the process of buying that practice.
Connecting with patients and serving her community is what drove Bridget Keaney ’08 to pursue dentistry. “Magnificat taught me a lot about service to others and the importance of giving back to the community,” she said. “A good portion of my patients come from lower-income families and/or are struggling with health issues, including addiction, and require extensive dental work. I always try to treat each patient with the utmost kindness and respect and deliver the best possible quality of care regardless of their situation.” Christine Francis Ciullo ’07, who discovered a passion for dentistry after working for her father, an oral surgeon, during breaks, says that Magnificat provided her with “the foundation to be a strong, independent thinker — confident in [her] skills as a dentist.” She also understands the call to service implicit in her skill set. “I strive to be a compassionate and understanding provider who puts the needs of my patients first,” she says. Danielle Daoud ’07, who owns a private dental practice in Cleveland with her husband, appreciated the intersection of science and art in dentistry and credits her Science Olympiad experience at Magnificat with developing in her leadership, teamwork, and humility. Service to the community is an important part of her practice, as she dedicates time to providing free dental care to the underserved in Ohio and abroad.
These are just a few examples of Magnificat women who continue to learn, lead, and serve through dentistry. Are you an alumna practicing dentistry? We would love to hear from you! Send your updates to Maggie Mroz Lamb ’84 at mlamb@maghs.org. We educate young women holistically to learn, lead, and serve in the spirit of Mary’s Magnificat. | MAGNIFICAT MAGAZINE
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LEARN, LEAD, SERVE ALUMNAE LIVING OUR MISSION IN THE WORLD Arshiya Kherani ’07 While she was at Magnificat and also as a student at New York University, Arshiya Kherani ’07 was a member of a strong and supportive Muslim community. The first time she found herself not surrounded by a faith community was during a semester spent studying abroad. During that time, she found herself not praying as frequently as she believed she should, and one of her friends even questioned why one of their other Muslim friends prayed more often than she did. This experience caused her to examine her faith: “What does Islam look like for me, when there are not a bunch of other people around me doing the same thing?” she asked herself. Kherani realized that the biggest barrier to prayer for her was that she often didn’t have a head covering. “I shouldn’t be missing prayer because I do not have a scarf,” she thought, so she began making a conscious effort to carry one with her. Her prayer life became more consistent, and as she returned from her semester abroad, she began wearing a hijab regularly. As an active Muslim woman, one frustration she had was that she could not find activewear hijabs in the mainstream marketplace. When she ran, she settled for bandanas in the summer and hats in the winter to keep her head covered, but when her bandana came off in the middle of a race, she decided she needed to find a solution for herself. With her mother and grandmother, Arshiya created samples of an activewear hijab that she started wearing herself and then slowly began sharing with friends. A friend from graduate school recommended she test her concept through a Kickstarter campaign, and in the summer of 2016, Kherani launched Sukoon Active (Sukoon is Arabic for “at ease”) with a goal of raising $10,000.
Arshiya Kherani '07 met with Ms. Sajida Abu-Ali's Arabic class when she visited Magnificat last fall. From left to right: Areege Malkieh '20, Seham Abukhalil '21, Arshiya Kherani, Ms. Sajida Abu-Ali, Mara Horning '20, Nour Lashin '21
Coincidentally, that was the same summer that fencer Ibtihaj Muhammad, the first U.S. athlete to wear a head scarf, competed at the Rio Olympics, putting a global spotlight on the need for activewear hijabs for Muslim women athletes. Kherani’s Kickstarter campaign raised $27,000 in 30 days, and she was even interviewed with Ibtihaj Muhammed. “We hadn’t even produced product yet,” she said. “All we had were samples. We didn’t even have a website yet, but people were clamoring for it, and all we had were the four samples we’d photographed. All of a sudden, Sukoon was at the forefront of this conversation about inclusivity of women in sports.” Kherani spent 18 months financially preparing to quit her day job at an organization focused on affordable housing to pursue her work at Sukoon Active full-time. Today, the company offers inclusive activewear for Muslim women, including hijabs that do not require pins (making them safe for team sports), shirts that provide more coverage, and accessories. Her Magnificat education helped to shape both her views of the kind of work she wanted to pursue and her goals for Sukoon Active. “Having mission-oriented work aligned with our academic work really built a foundation for me,” Kherani said. “After that, I always knew that I wanted to go into a mission-oriented business, [and] having that foundation in your education shows that it’s possible.”
Visit www.sukoonactive.com to browse their inventory of activewear and accessories for Muslim women!
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MAGNIFICAT MAGAZINE | A MAGAZINE FOR ALUMNAE AND FRIENDS OF MAGNIFICAT HIGH SCHOOL | SPRING 2020
CLASS NOTES 1962
Sr. Anne Victory, HM, a 1969 graduate of St. John’s College, was honored in September at Ursuline College with the Bishop Amadeus Rappe Award, an award given to outstanding alumnae of Ursuline College and St. John’s College. She was selected to receive the award for her decades of work as a clinician, educator, administrator, and her extensive efforts to end human trafficking as the Director of Education for the Collaborative to End Human Trafficking and President of US Catholic Sisters Against Human Trafficking.
1996
Gina Lanham Marciniak is a Senior Director and Professional Matchmaker at It’s Just Lunch. She can be reached at Gina.marciniak@ijlselect.com.
1998
Megan Stroh Rutkowski and her husband, Dan, welcomed son, William, on April 5, 2019. He joined brother, Benjamin, 3.
Elissa Ballas and husband, Joe, welcomed daughter, Raeleigh, on January 9, 2018. Elissa is a Physician with the United States Air Force. She graduated in May 2019 from Midwestern University as Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine and is currently completing an internship and residency in Radiology at Travis Air Force Base in California. Elissa previously earned a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Baylor University in 2006.
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2002
Brigid Long Groves earned both a Doctor of Pharmacy and a Master of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences degree at The Ohio State University, She is currently a Clinical Pharmacist at Population Health - Partners For Kids, an accountable care organization affiliated with Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus, Ohio. Brigid was recently elected as the President of the Ohio Pharmacists Association.
2003
Jodi Blonski Murray married John Murray in Sea Island, Georgia on June 28, 2019. Jodi completed her MBA from Johns Hopkins University and currently works for Northwestern Medicine. They reside in Lake Forest, Illinois.
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Amber Breitfelder and husband, Corey, welcomed daughter, Ava Rose, on April 5, 2018. She joins brother, Zach, 5, and sister, Audrey, 3.
2005
Claire Whitmore Grubaugh graduated from Ursuline College with a Bachelor Degree in Psychology and is currently working toward a Master’s Degree in Public Administration — all while maintaining full time jobs as a Data Analyst at University Hospitals and as a mother to two young boys. Claire plans to run for political office in the future. Rebecca Gerrity Seuch and wife, Jenna, welcomed daughter, Beckett Rose, on August 3, 2019. Rebecca is entering her 10th year as a Middle School Intervention Specialist in Dayton, Ohio.
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2006
Allison Parker earned a Doctorate in Entomology in 2019 from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where she previously earned a Master of Science degree in 2016. Allison graduated from University of Richmond in 2010 with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. She is currently an Assistant Professor of Biological Sciences at Northern Kentucky University.
2007
Ruthie Haggerty Brennan and husband, Kevin, welcomed son, Riley James, on April 18, 2019.
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CLASS NOTES
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Kelley Nicolay married Kelton Kosik on April 13, 2019 in Atlanta, Georgia. Guests included Lauren Lebold Berry ’07, Caroline Walters Carmigiano ’03, Katie Mathews Wojdowski ’07 (bridesmaid), Mary Marquard Walters ’78, Susan Nicolay ’10 (maid of honor), Roshni Shah ’07 (bridesmaid), Marilou Kosik Suszko ’73, Paula Marquard ’82, Kaitlyn McClear ’07 (bridesmaid), Anne Marquard Nicolay ’77. (In attendance but missing from picture are Christine Francis Ciullo ’07 and Maureen Rose Fay ’75) .
2009
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Morgan Nortz Flannery and husband Ryan were married on October 14, 2017. They met at Miami University, where Morgan earned a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology and Health in 2013. Morgan works for Concentra as the Center Operations Director for two occupational therapy centers.
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en-Provence, France. Following graduation, she accepted a year-long position with the Fredrick Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Tori is currently working in Cholet, France as an English Teaching Assistant in an elementary school for the academic year. She credits Madame Barbara Graw Kikta ’69, Magnificat French Teacher, for inspiring her to learn about and deepen her understanding of French language and culture.
2010
Erin Blake Ramsey married Donald Ramsey on December 22, 2018. Her sister, Caitlin ‘06, was a bridesmaid. Erin is an Occupational Therapist at Cleveland Clinic Children’s Hospital for Rehabilitation.
2011
Samantha Birchfield married Timothy Dugan on November 9, 2019 in Noblesville, Indiana. Her sister, Jillian Birchfield ’16 (right of Samantha), served as maid of honor. Bridesmaids included Kathleen Duncan ’10 (far left), Marley Kormos ’10 (middle left), Erin Riley ’10 (left of Sam) and Brigid Murray ’11 (far right). Brigid Coyne graduated with a degree in English and Literature from Christendom University and is currently a Production Director for Evergreen Podcasts. Aryn Giffi Scibona, a Clinic Research Coordinator at Cleveland Clinic, earned a Bachelor Degree in Psychology from John Carroll University and a Master’s Degree in Experimental Psychology from Cleveland State University. Aryn married Rosario Scibona III at Gesu Parish in University Heights on June 15, 2019. Bridesmaids included Rachael Craft-Giffi ’09, Melissa Dautas ’13, Amanda Giffi ’05, Alyson Wolk ’11, and Laura Simko O’Donnell ’11 (L-R in photo).
2013
Tori Mohar earned a Bachelor Degree in 2017 from Grand Valley State University (GVSU), where she majored in French and Geography (Regional and City Planning) and minored in Environmental Studies. While at GVSU, she spent a year in Aix-
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Bridget Visconti, a 2017 graduate of Catholic University of America, is working on a Master’s Degree in Political Economy at the London School of Economics.
2014
Chaise Brewer graduated from Bowling Green State University in 2017 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Marine Biology. She graduated in December 2019 with a Master’s of Professional Science from the University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science where she studied marine mammals. Erin Castele graduated in 2018 from Duquesne University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry, and she recently completed her Master’s Degree in Chemical Engineering at Northwestern University. Ellen Hutchinson is in her second year as a Peace Corps volunteer in Peru, where she works with mothers, children, and adolescents to teach them about healthy, sustainable living and leadership. Ellen graduated from Colgate University in December 2017 with a degree in Molecular Biology and Political Science. Katelyn Jakyma graduated from Bowling Green State University and is now in her second year of dental school at The Ohio State University College of Dentistry. While at Bowling Green, Katelyn shadowed Lynn Schram Aprile, DDS ’77. Destinie Keeton is currently interning at the McGee Medicine Center at Hagyard Equine Medical Institute in Lexington, Kentucky, and plans to attend school to become a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. Destinie graduated from University of Findlay in May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Pre-Veterinary/Animal Science.
MAGNIFICAT MAGAZINE | A MAGAZINE FOR ALUMNAE AND FRIENDS OF MAGNIFICAT HIGH SCHOOL | SPRING 2020
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IN MEMORIAM
2015
Mary Grace Becker is a Registered Nurse at Tufts Medical Center in Boston, Massachusetts. She graduated from University of Kentucky in 2019 with a Bachelor Degree in Nursing in 2019.
2016
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Kayla McNamara graduated in 2019 from the University of San Diego (USD) with a Bachelor Degree in French. At USD, she earned the highest GPA in French out of all French majors and was initiated into Pi Denta Phi, the national French honor society. Kayla is currently a student at The Ohio State University College of Dentistry.
Maggie Nageotte is studying chemical engineering at Northwestern University and completed her second summer internship as a Research Assistant in the Case Western Reserve University Proteomics Research Laboratory.
Please join us in prayer for the families of our students and alumnae. Deanna Anglin Daughter of Debra Bennett Anglin ’74; Niece of Laura Bennett Halladay ’80 Richard G. “Dick” Anter Father of Mary Anter ’02 and Lauren Anter ’07; Brother of JoAnne Anter Ata ’66, Terrie Anter Garr ’67, and Mary Sue Tanis ’72; Uncle of Georgie Ata Rhodes ’97, Gabby Ata Christman ’99, and Emily Garr Pacetti ’01 Cecelia Olsavsky Baker ’56L John Adolph Balog Father of Mary Balog ’70 Irene L. Basista Mother of Beth Ann Basista ’81 Kenneth Anthony Bichl Father of Cathy Bichl Nowlin ’70, Jacquie Bichl Nowlin ’71, Lisa Bichl Falcone ’75, and Missy Bichl Sturgis ’78; Grandfather of Moira Nowlin Arendts ’00, Allison Nowlin ’05, and Caitlin Nowlin ’05 Janice Richnasky Biro ’59 Teresa R. Bis Mother of Linda Bis Evans ’72 and Janice Bis Potraz ’78; Grandmother of Teresa Bis Reynolds ’03, Anne Evans Schira ’05, Jill Evans ’06, Kathryn Potraz ’09, Tricia Evans Helman ’10, and Melanie Potraz ’14
Send us your news! Email Maggie Mroz Lamb ’84 at mlamb@maghs.org with your alumnae updates.
Jane S. Blahovec Mother of Tracee Blahovec Zubec ’82
Nancy A. Bouhall Mother of Lisa Bouhall Chriszt ’74, Susan Bouhall Capaldi ’77 and Martha Bouhall ’84; Grandmother of Gretchen Chriszt Spetz ’02 and Anne Ising Chriszt ’06 Melissa Ann Modic Burmeister ’76 Sister of Amy Beth Modic Splain ’82; Aunt of Anna Modic Davis ’02, Josie Modic ’05, and Claire Modic ’11 John Carey Brother of Pamela Carey Batz ’66 and Elizabeth Carey Kish ’74; Uncle of Barbara Kish ’11 and Anne Kish ’17 William C. Carey Brother of Pamela Carey Batz ’66 and Elizabeth Carey Kish ’74; Uncle of Barbara Kish ’11 and Anne Kish ’17 Annette Mohar Carl ’86 Sister-in-law of Nikki Clevenger Mohar ’89 William R. “Wink” Carpenter Husband of Darlene Oller Fleming Carpenter ’64; Stepfather of Kelly Fleming Hall ’89 and Colleen Fleming Hummer ’91 Eileen C. Chambers Mother of Eileen Chambers O’Malley ’92; Mother-in-law of Kate Campbell Chambers ’88, Fiona Campbell Chambers ’90, Mollie Kraven Chambers ’92, and Brigid Kennedy Chambers ’95; Grandmother of Fiona Chambers ’17, Ailish Chambers ’20, Clare Chambers ’21, and Bridget Chambers ’22 Margaret “Marge” Charvat Mother of Karen Charvat ’73 Bonnie Micklos Christman ’69 Terrence P. Clancy Grandfather of Kelly Clancy ’02 Carol Anne Smith Collins ’77
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Mary Jane Comerford Mother of Kate Comerford Doherty ’91 Marie “Mae” Chambers Convery ’59L Grandmother of Emily Sterba ’11 and Phoebe Sterba ’16 Mary Stanton Cook ’64 Sister of Carol Stanton Buckley ’59 † and Phyllis Stanton ’62 Sister Rita Costello, HM Sr. Mary Cunningham, HM Joseph K. Dreher Jr. Father of Rosemary Dreher ’72 and Anne Dreher Ault ’77; Grandfather of Kelly Dreher Moran ’06, Clare Dreher Lucas ’09, and Ellen Dreher ’11 William “Bill” T. Douglas Eileen Douglas Libens ’60 and Barbara Douglas ‘67; Uncle of Jennifer McCutcheon Karabinus ’86 Rosemary T. Eyerman Mother of Lori Del Regno; Grandmother of Rosemary Eyerman ’08 and Erica Eyerman ’14 Gary Arthur Fishburn Husband of Joan Brimus Fishburn ’64; Brother-in-law of Susan McAvoy Brimus ’64; Uncle of Kim Brimus Mather ’89, Kristen Brimus Bakich ’90, Carol Brimus Chalkley ’92 and Catie Brimus Macuna ’96; Great uncle of Michelle Brimus ’12 Carmina Codeluppi Frank ’56L Micheline Kasper Fried ’64 Darlene Carroll Gall ’61L Frank Anthony Giardino Husband of Kathy Hutter Giardino ’77; Father of Kristen Giardino ’08 and Olivia Giardino ’10
IN MEMORIAM Nancy A. Golden Mother of Mary Ellen Wiggenhorn ’71, Patti Golden ’72, and Kathy Golden ’84; mother-in-law of Kathy Hogan Golden ’76; Grandmother of Julie Wiggenhorn ’00 Mary Kay “Kate” Miller Hafey ’64 Maureen Spuhler Hampton ’60 Sister of Kathleen Spuhler Neal ’63 and Mary Spuhler Meehan ’66† Erin J. Harris Mother of India Koster Sweeney ’06 Donald Patrick “Don” Hoke Father of Karen Hoke Barrett ’86; Grandfather of Kayleigh ’18, Grace ’20, and Kaci ’21 Charles Hughes Brother of Cheri McDonnell Hughes Boston ’63 Patricia N. Isabella ’65L Mother of Mary Ellen Isabella Nussbaum ’94, Bridget Isabella Currie ’98; Megan Isabella McGough ’01, and Molly Isabella Cruz ’07; Aunt of Katie O’Brien ’04 (formerly Musulin) Ann Marie Joseph ’83 Grace Bonham Kane ’42 Maureen Kehoe ’67 Sister of Kathy Kehoe Christy ’59, Fran Kehoe ’61, Margie Kehoe O’Shaughnessy ’62, Patricia Kehoe Fagan ’63, and Annmarie Kehoe Butera ’72 Kathleen Kennedy Mother of Mary Kay Kennedy Laska ’82 and Jennifer Kennedy Ontko ’90 Barbara Burtnett Kessinger ’71 Sister of Carol Burtnett ’68; Aunt of Jackie Laschinger Keenan ’02
Margaret Birmingham Kluter ’65L Sister of Mary Alice Birmingham Redmon ’62L Aunt of Katie Redmon Cooke ’87, Sarah Gelsomino ’00, Jessica Gelsomino ’03, and Abby Gelsomino ’08 Margaret “Maggie” Hoynes Knoblauch ’44L Sister of Mary Hoynes Duhigg ’47L, Aunt of Catherine Duhigg Gannon ’78 Gerald P. “Jerry” Koenigsmark Father of Jeanne Koenigsmark ’81 and Jackie Koenigsmark Delembo ’82 Patrice “Patty” McGinty Kozlowski ’70 Maureen Penny Singleton Kulp ’64 Suzanne Masterson Mack ’65 Sister of Sandy Connell Masterson ’60, Sharon Connell Cain ’62 †, and Nancy Connell London ’67; Sister-in-law of Kathy Mack Hafner ’61 and Donna Mack Bender ’62; Aunt of Maureen Masterson Manderfield ’82, Katie Twohig Lietzke ’89, Beth Twohig ’91, and Mary Beth Bender Clausing ’01; Great Aunt of Lauren Leitzke ’22 Louise Marsick Manley ’53L Mother of Kathy Manley Pucci ’78, Kari Manley ’80†, Kristin Manley Kerge ’81, Kim Manley ’83, and Kelly Manley ’84 John R. McGuire Father of Nancy McGuire Marks ’85; Grandfather of Bridget Marks ’19 Margaret “Peg” McLaughlin ’41L Sister of Patricia McLaughlin ’47L; Aunt of Maureen McLaughlin Pugh ’72 and Kathy McLaughlin Gifford ’78 Michael Patrick McNamara, Sr. Father of Bridgid McNamara Whitford ’86; Grandfather of Meg Whitford ’16 and Molly McNamara ’19
Sister Susan Klein, HM ’64
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MAGNIFICAT MAGAZINE | A MAGAZINE FOR ALUMNAE AND FRIENDS OF MAGNIFICAT HIGH SCHOOL | SPRING 2020
“May all be comforted by the compassionate heart of Christ who will draw all to abundant life and fullness of joy!” -Sr. Helen Jean Novy, HM Carol A. Rosfelder McNulty ’65 Mother of Maura McNulty ’03; Sister of Jean Rosfelder Lelonis ’67 † and Mary Kay Rosfelder Giblin ’69; Sister-inlaw of Maureen Cannon Rosfelder ’73; Aunt of Mary Kate Rosfelder ’02 and Katie Rosfelder ’19 Margaret “Peggy” McIntyre Merk ’60L Alice “Pat” Mooney Sister of Kathleen Heverin Sambora ’59 Marilynn Collins Murphy ’50L Marilyn Ruth Doubler Murray ’64 Margaret Mylett Mother of Cec Mylett ’71 Stephen M. Niksa Father of Katie Niksa Gardner ’05 Patsy O’Callahan ’74 Sister of Kathleen O’Callahan ’75† and Bridget O’Callahan McGlynn ’96 Robert “Bob” Scott O’Connor Husband of Camille DuMonthier O’Connor ’82 Mary Ginley O’Malley ’51L Sister of Sheila Ginley Corrigan ’57L, Kathleen Ginley McComb ’65L Marigene Pattison Mother of Suzanne Pattison Campen ’67, Christine Campen Ranges ’68, and Mary Grace Pattison ’74 Kathryn Milota Pavarini ’64L Sister of Charlene Milota Kiehl ’67L
Barbara Kazol Peterlin ’53L Aunt of Kristen Somoles Chapman ’86 Karen Gallagher Richards ’64L Sister of Denise Gallagher Rochford ’57L, Mary Jo Gallagher Marvar ’61L, and Noranne Gallagher Flanagan ’62L; Aunt of Megan Rochford Pearson ’82 and Eileen Rochford ’89 Margaret Carey Rudy ’79 Sister of Eileen Carey Hewitt ’70, Joanne Carey ’72, Rita Carey ’75, and Judy Carey ’80; Sister-in-law of Eloise Rudy Carey ’76; Aunt of Kara Hewitt Tolentino ’00 and Meg Hewitt Kennedy ’02 William Gilbert “Gil” Sheehan Brother of Suzanne Sheehan Becker ’63, Rosemary Sheehan Werner ’68, and Maureen Sheehan Carey ’70 Maureen H. Smith ’60 Sister of Veronica Smith Pauer ’61; Aunt of Deborah Pauer Salaban ’84 Michael David Solma Brother of Mary Solma Verbick ’68 and Sister Annie Solma, HM ’69 Eileen M. Kilbane Somogyi ’77 Sister of Jacqueline Kilbane Breslawski ’79; Cousin of Cathy Kilbane ’80 Mary Kathryn Strasek (Correction) Mother of Kathleen Strasek Dyller ’65 and Susan Strasek ’70; Aunt of Mary Hendricksen DiSanto ’60 and Donna Hendricksen McKenney ’62
Rae Ann Sullivan ’70L Barbara A. Sturbaum ’54L Rose Marie Sullivan Mother of Eileen Sullivan Ptacek ’71, Celia Sullivan Davis ’74, Jane Sullivan Lyons ’75, and Ann Sullivan Jones ’80; Mother-in-law of Sue Schriner Sullivan ’80; Grandmother of Mary Clare Becker Carson ’08 Barbara J. Thome ’67 Sandy J. Kozak Wallack ’69L Joan I. Weiskittel Mother of Cynthia Weiskittel ’81, Geralyn Weiskittel Rogers ’82, and Mary Weiskittel Christner ’83
We have included all the relationships that we could locate in our records. If we have missed one, kindly let us know by emailing Maggie Mroz Lamb ’84 at mlamb@maghs.org, and we will include the names in the next edition.
If an alumna or loved one of an alumna passes away, please contact Maggie Mroz Lamb’84 at mlamb@maghs.org or 440.331.1572 x268. There is now an In Memoriam section of the Magnificat website where we will post any deaths and death notices that are brought to our attention.
† Deceased
L denotes a graduate of Lourdes Academy
20770 Hilliard Boulevard Rocky River, OH 44116-3397
www.magnificaths.org
Are our records correct? If you’re receiving extra copies of the magazine or have noticed a misspelling or error with our database, please let us know! Email all updates and changes to Meg Chochola at mchochola@maghs.org.