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News from Mother McAuley High School
table of contents n Health & Wellness Feature
Carey Temple Harrington ‘86 Vice President of Institutional Advancement charrington@mothermcauley.org
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n McAuley Hall of Honor
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n Alumnae News & Events
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n Advancement Updates
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n School News
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Jennifer Ligda Busk ‘93 Director of Marketing & Communications jbusk@mothermcauley.org Peggy Evan Rourke ‘76 Director of Alumnae Relations and Development prourke@mothermcauley.org Maura Moran Vaughan ‘07 Assistant Director of Alumnae Relations mvaughan@mothermcauley.org
Inscape is a publication of Mother McAuley Liberal Arts High School. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Alumnae Relations, Mother McAuley High School, 3737 W. 99th Street, Chicago, IL 60655 alumnae@mothermcauley.org Copyright 2019 Mother McAuley Liberal Arts High School. Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without written permission.
Design and layout by Karen Culloden Hoey ‘84 Printing by Accurate Printing
President’s Letter
In addition to establishing a school for girls when they first arrived in Chicago in 1846, the Sisters of Mercy cared for the sick, orphans and sheltered young women. They tended to the city’s most vulnerable - those who lacked the resources to care for themselves - and within two years they opened Mercy Hospital. Today, that same outward care and concern still kindle within our McAuley community. It is the McAuley way. From our school families to our alumnae, this issue of Inscape features stories that highlight the important work that McAuley women are doing to foster the physical, mental, emotional and social wellbeing of others. I’m sure you’ll be impressed by the depth and breadth of their efforts. At the same time, these women are boosting their own health! Researchers at Florida State University found that having strong social connections and helping others is important for happiness, or Eudaimonia (pronounced yoo-dye-moNEE-uh). Translated from Greek the word means “flourishing” or “happiness.” Whether you volunteer your time with an organization, donate to charities, or offer emotional support, connecting with and assisting others can create a sense of meaning and fulfillment we are seeking. And here’s a bonus: people who perform such actions have lower blood pressure/better heart rate, more energy, less depression, exhibit greater happiness and live longer, according to studies at Berkeley and the University of Michigan. Gift-giving behaviors even trigger powerful brain-stimulating chemicals, producing what is commonly referred to as a “helper’s high.” It’s a win-win for the giver and the receiver! Developing healthy relationships and wholesome habits are a fundamental part of the lifetime advantage of a McAuley education. The wellbeing of our school is continually bolstered by the generous spirit of the many who support our programs and ensure our students are future-ready. From our Fore the Macs: Playing it Forward Golf outing (to benefit Tradition of Excellence Scholarships) to Mercy Day of Giving to our annual appeal to Celebration, there are many opportunities to pledge your support for McAuley. Also, remember the many options we offer through Planned Giving. Our Catherine McAuley Legacy Society is a wonderful way to affirm one’s values and beliefs and demonstrate to family and friends a desire to support McAuley for years to come. Whether as a parent, alumna, volunteer or donor, your support is a tangible expression of a belief in the experiences and connections we offer young women on their journey toward spiritual, mental and emotional growth and self-discovery. I hope you’ll join the journey. In Mercy, Mary Acker Klingenbeger ‘75
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Friendships Foster Health and Wellbeing throughout the Pages By Jennifer Ligda Busk ‘93 In 2015, the New York Times estimated that five million Americans belonged to a book club. It’s not news that the book club culture has been fully embraced by society, in part because of celebrities like Oprah. Since the launch of her book club in 1996 others have followed suit. Today, Reese Witherspoon and Jimmy Fallon are among the latest to motivate and influence millions of Americans to pick up books. Data on the benefits of reading is well documented. A 2016 study titled “A Chapter a Day – Association of Book Reading with Longevity” revealed that book readers were shown to have a 20 percent “reduction in risk of mortality” over 12 years, compared to non–book readers. Another study in the professional journal, Neurology, showed that both “early-life cognitive activity” (such as reading) and “late-life cognitive activity” reduced cognitive decline by 14 percent. So what about the benefits of belonging to a book Reading just six discussion club? While the data is not as quantifiminutes a day able, getting wrapped up in can reduce stress almost any extracurricular group activity sends blood levels by more pressure down and boosts immunity and fun. For than two-thirds, those who seek connection according to and camaraderie, or to increase their worldview and results of a engage in self-help, belong2009 study. ing to a book club might be the perfect prescription. Can a book club be considered a type of health club (sans fees, a membership card, and gym shoes optional)? For women, a book club provides a release, and relief, from the redundancies of life that bombard them in their roles as employees, wives, mothers, sisters, daughters and more. Tara Carberry, content strategist at Book Club Hub, an online resource for connecting readers with local clubs, says, “To take an hour a month for a book club is a satisfying, enriching release that more and more people are coming to value.” Even
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wiser is this simple observation from one of McAuley’s best and brightest minds, former principal Sister Mary Brian Costello, RSM: “It’s very important for women to be together and talk about things outside the ordinary.” For more than 42 years, Sister Brian, along with a dozen other women have kept the company of one another through a book club. Many of the members are alumnae of Mother McAuley, Saint Xavier Academy, Saint Xavier College, or former administrators. Others are mothers and grandmothers of McAuley alumnae. Without fail, they convene the first Monday of every month. This past summer, the women of this infamous “McAuley book club” gathered for a luncheon, where they talked about their journey of self-discovery and fulfillment the club has provided.
Sister Sows the Seed Mary Kean Coffey ‘63, was a student of Sister Brian as a McAuley junior and again as a senior in college English. They stayed in touch while Mary was in college and afterwards. In 1977 when she was in the midst of caring for babies, husband and home she called Sister Brian and said, “Brian, how do I think of the liberal arts amidst all this? It gets away from me,’” shared Sister Brian. “So we said let’s think of something to put in place that fits with what your life is now. She said, ‘Nothing more could fit!’ But what we came up with was a book club where we could continue discussing the things we learned to love when we were in high school and college.” “After her conversation with Mary, Sister Brian pulled a group of us together,” shared Mary Cartan Hendry ‘63. “Many of us at this table today were there that first night, and since
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we hadn’t yet read a book, Sister Brian talked about ‘women as storytellers.’ It was so inspirational and many times since I have thought about it and how I remember little bits of it, but I wish it was written down. That is how the book club started, because of Sister Brian’s remarks.” In the passing of more than four decades, it has been only twice that the crew did not meet, shared Sister Terry Maltby, RSM and life trustee of Mother McAuley. “Both times were due to deaths. One was Anne Kean Gardner, Mary Kean Coffey’s sister, and the other was for Mary Kean Coffey,” who passed away in 2013. “We called Mary ‘The Empress of Book Club,’ a title which she adopted readily….she loved it,” shared Mary Hendry. “We thought once a month was pretty ambitious, I see that now, but it’s amazing how it has continued to work because it kept people reading and living full lives...many of the women had leadership roles, especially leading their families,” said Sister Brian. “It’s very appropriate for women to be together and talk about things outside the daily grind...outside the ordinary. I think the Lord must have put it in our mind. I had never been in a book club.” Marilyn Walsh Wohlberg ’60 shared, “We were way ahead of Oprah! Our first meeting was 19 years earlier than hers.”
The sanctity of the book club became well known among outsiders too, according to Mary Hendry. “When Sister Jean McGrath ‘62, CSJ and McAuley Board of Trustee, was principal at Saint John Fisher Parish, the pastor, Father Tom Purtell, loved telling the story about how they would schedule meetings so not to interfere with book club. He would look at the calendar and say ‘no, Jean has book club on that night.’” Final Payments, by Mary Gordon was the first assignment. It led to reading subsequent books by the author, and ultimately a guest appearance by Gordon at one of the Club’s meetings. Jackie Kean recalled that first meeting. “Mary Hendry arranged for her to be the commencement speaker at Saint Xavier College that year. At the time, I was on the college’s Board of Trustees so I picked her up at the airport. I told her about our book club and asked if she would like to come to our meeting. We arranged for her to join us at a restaurant called Gordon’s.” Not all guest speakers traveled from afar to present to the group. Some are a little closer to home, like Mary Hendry’s husband, George. “We were reading about WWI and WWII. George had done extensive research on both wars and at one of our meetings I was hosting, I called him up from our basement to give us the benefit of his expertise. It must have been a success because he received two fan letters!” joked Mary. Early on the Club devised a schedule. In December they would pick books for the next several months out. Whoever picks the book hosts the meeting.
Back row - Pat Monahan, Mary Cartan Hendry ‘63, Marilyn Walsh Wohlberg ‘60, Pat Daley Martino, SXA ‘54, Kathleen McLaughlin, Margie King, Kathy Austin, Mary Cummings and Sr. Jean McGrath ‘63, CSJ Front row - Sr. Terry Maltby, RSM, Marie Ruff, Sr. Brian Costello, RSM, Jackie Kean and Mary Ellen Lavoie.
“When we started out we were way more organized than we are now,” shared Margie King. “We might decide that we would focus an entire year on poetry or classics, but now we pretty
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much just make our own decisions, but we do it well in advance for those who like to get their books early.” “We do like to mix it up a little. One time we went to see ‘Eifman’ the ballet of Anna Karenina,” shared Mary Hendry. The inspiration for their picks comes from all over, whether it be the list of Man Booker or Pulitzer Prize winners or those written by graduates of the renowned Iowa Writer’s Workshop. During the month of December in lieu of a meeting the group invites a local parish priest to say Mass. Afterward they enjoy refreshments and a book exchange. This year, Margie will host the Mass. Just as technology has changed the way we communicate, thanks to texting and social apps, so too, it has altered the way many people read. Among the group are those with an affinity for their Kindle or Nook®, yet the majority still prefer having a traditional print book in hand. Technology also has made it easier to investigate books and authors. “When this started I was working at Saint Xavier,” said Mary Hendry. “I would go into the school library and ask the librarian to do a little research for me, but now you just google it and come up with plenty of background on the book and author.” “Sometimes we’ve been able to find interviews with the authors on You Tube,” added Sister Terry. “We watched a great documentary about writer Wallace Stegner, which was hosted by Robert Redford.”
Records, rules and ripping Naturally, over the course of more than 40 years, one can imagine the difficulty in remembering the titles of all the books one has read. Mary Coffey remedied this concern during the early years of the club. “Our dear Empress Mary made us each a directory of all the books we read so we had a record,” said Kathleen McLaughlin. “After she left us, I began keeping track. At our 40th anniversary I made an addendum.” There are, of course, a few cardinal rules of book club. One is that you must read the book. Those not willing to oblige will be kindly asked to leave, without exception. The women recall how Mary Coffey invited her college roommate to join the club but after a few meetings she was unceremoniously asked to leave.
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“Mary called her out on not reading the book. She just came for the conversation, so she was asked to leave. We’re all still friends with her and what I think it underscored was how much we all wanted to talk about what we had read. We enjoyed the intellectual stimulation,” said Kathleen. Generally, the Club meetings begin at 7:30 pm and at around 8 pm the discussion of the book begins. It often continues until 9:30 pm or later. “The hostess is responsible for opening the discussion with some background on the author,” shared Margie. “Then, it’s their responsibility to keep the discussion moving. They share their perspective, what they liked and disliked, sometimes we break it down into characters, sometimes they say immediately that they did not like it... and that may spur some conversation, pros and cons, but we stay on topic for at least an hour.” “One of the enduring questions The Empress would ask was ‘Would you like to invite the author for dinner?’” said Sister Terry. “That was a clue as to whether the book was good.” Pat Monahan offered up how she is best known for picking the worst book ever. “The Yiddish Policemen’s Union by Michael Chabon. Believe it or not, no one bothers to remind me how awful it was, and I’ve been in the club for 20 years!” (She joked, in goodnatured fun, that her error in judgment was due to the fact that she graduated from Longwood Academy, and not McAuley.)
“Reading can be
It’s Jackie who is known a road to freedom for selecting the most interesting books. Her or a key to a next selection for the club secret garden, is The Women of Brewster Place, a fictional book of which, if tended, short stories which looks at the lives of both men and will transform women and their varied all of life.” relationships in terms of friendship and romantic K AT H E R I N E PAT E R S O N , love. The ladies say Jackie Au t h or devours literature and her tastes are expansive, ranging from the classics to the obscure. She is a member of a book club at the University of Chicago and previously took a class at the university which
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featured the study of 18thCentury Japanese literature. “She is a true renaissance woman,” said Sister Jean. “And she reads more than any of us; I think she reads at stop lights!” (A few others in the group admit to having done the same when stopped at a railroad crossing.) To accommodate her penchant for reading, Jackie has been known to tear books in half and carry a piece in her purse. “This is Singapore Grip, the third in the trilogy,” said Jackie, pulling half a book, with no cover, from her bag, as the other women laugh. “I go downtown several times a week and I don’t want to carry all that weight!” “Mary Coffey would come to my house sometime after midnight -- after we had already talked on the phone for an hour and a half -- with two blueberry muffins and half a book,” said Mary Hendry. “If she was reading a softcover book and thought I should read it she would tear it in half and give me the first half. Then we would pass it along in a rubber band... it worked out fine!” As lunch continued, the conversation turned to the opening of the new Wonderburger, weekly trips and new finds at County Fair (did you know jicama is a Mexican potato?) and the other nourishment provided through the club: food. “When we started I think the only hors d’ oeuvres we knew were Ruffles potato chips and French onion dip!” said Sister Jean. “Some of us have become wonderful connoisseurs of appetizers, but also know who to call when you need a good dip.” Jackie’s daughter, Cara, is known to be creative in the kitchen and enjoys making appetizers for her mother’s friends. Some of the women, particularly Sister Brian and Sister Terry are famous for their “themed” food pairings with the book, whereas Mary Coffey once directed the hostesses to “just spray cheese on crackers.”
From the lost to the found “It’s always been fascinating to me that we are not a social group apart from book club,” said Sister Terry. “Everybody knows somebody else and there are all kinds of connections, but book club is a different connection in itself. That has made it a unique relationship that is not replicated.” For several of the women, the invitation to book club came to them at a time when the inevitability of change was pervasive in their lives, whether it be finding a new home and new friends, or dealing with the loss of a loved one. “I had moved back to Chicago from Wisconsin and was introduced to the club through my dear friend, Mary Hendry,” shared Pat. “It somewhat saved my life the first few years... you know when you’re moving and don’t know people.” Marie Ruff was invited by Jackie. “Jackie lived across the street from me and invited me to come to a meeting she was hosting. It so happened that I had read the book, but I told my daughter Beth, ‘I don’t like knowing that I have to go someplace every month!’ But, I went and I loved it. I remember walking in and seeing Sister Brian, who taught me in fifth grade. Then and there I was sold on the club.” In turn, Marie paid it forward to Mary Ellen Lavoie. “Marie invited me to join when my husband passed away. Talk about saving your life. The women in this group are willing to accept you and help you in any way they can. The camaraderie is unbelievable and the growth in the selection of books has helped me a great deal. I cannot say that I was or am a connoisseur yet, but I think I have become much more aware of good books and good reading because of this club and good friends.” Pat Daley Martino, SXA ‘54 and Kathy Austin still consider themselves “newbies” in the group, despite having joined several years ago. “A few women I knew, and others I didn’t,” said Pat. “But what I love most is the different views people share of the books. Some I read and had one slant on, then I came and listened to what other women had to say and was amazed at what they would take from a book. Sometimes I would go back and read a book again and I could understand and appreciate it from a different perspective. And I love all the women...they have been so kind and good to me.”
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Added Kathy, “Mary invited me and everyone welcomed me as if I had been a part of the group forever. Then, I had some health setbacks and everyone surrounded me and lifted me up in prayer and provided encouragement. It meant the world to me. Besides the books and increasing my knowledge, it increased my heart.”
It was the best of times, it was the worst of times. The happy memories and celebrations throughout the 42 years of the club have inevitably been punctuated by low points, including the death of group and family members. When life brought tragedy, the women brought each other comfort, solace, and respite. “The friendship of these women and the deepness and richness of all of us combined is so valued,” said Margie. “We started out as youngsters and our lives went up and down and over and out. Just look at our different walks Pat Daley Martino, SXA ‘54 and Mary Cartan of life. We’ve got Hendry ‘63 religious among us, we have people who are married, widowed, some with no children and some with a lot of children. We’ve shared grief, we’ve shared joys but all the while we came to book club. We met every month, all through the winter and throughout the summer....every month. That is a lot of time over 40 years. Sometimes you may come away thinking you didn’t like the book, but you enjoyed a wonderful, rich evening shared by friends.” It’s no surprise that particular topics and books can wreak havoc on one’s emotions, particularly if it’s a story that hits close to home. Sometimes, just talking with other women who’ve endured similar fictional experiences and losses has been a source of emotional support. “At Christmas time especially, when we think of the stories, the ups, and downs, the births and deaths, the growth and diminishment that each of us has experienced,” shared Mary
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Hendry, “we have been able to both celebrate and mourn because you knew there was this team of women behind and with you who helped you figure life out. That is the greatest gift of book club.” Added Kathleen, “I love the idea of women talking with each other, understanding each other’s hurts and happiness and that’s what this book club is. Sister Brian, your magical words at the end of that very first talk were, ‘Girls, go out and tell your stories.’ Not only did we read other people’s stories but through 40 some years we’ve all told our stories and everyone has listened, and encouraged and supported. All these years we’ve enjoyed other authors’ stories, but we enjoy our stories the most.”
Lessons learned There may be no better testament to the power and importance of women coming together to grow their understanding of themselves, friendships with others and knowledge of the world than through this club. Its longevity demonstrates that no data need exist to prove that the benefits they’ve reaped from the club are measureless. There are endless lessons to be gleaned about oneself. “I’m a procrastinator,” shared Mary Ellen Lavoie. “I make snap judgments,” said Pat Daley Martino. Mary Hendry’s sentiment is that “if I don’t love a book by page 75 then I don’t love it.” “I didn’t want to discuss something that wasn’t well written,” said Sister Brian. “What I love about books is that reading takes you out of your own life and exposes you to new lives, which leads me to compare and think how lucky I am,” shared Marilyn. “I learned a renewed sense of gratitude,” shared Sister Jean. “I think we take the blessings of life for granted and because of what we’ve read we sometimes found that the characters we liked or disliked may have had no faith base. It’s being in a group of women like this, and our discussions that have reinforced how important faith is in my life.” Naturally, there are times when not everyone agrees, yet Kathleen shared how those discussions gave her newfound confidence. “I was always such a people pleaser and never wanted to say
Feature...H e a l t h & W e l l n e s s Book Club Members Kathy Austin Daughter attended Little School Sister Mary Brian Costello, RSM Former administrator at McAuley Mary Feeley Cummings ‘62 Mother of Kathleen Cummings Egan ‘89 Mary Cartan Hendry ‘63 Mother of Bess Hendry ‘94
Principal Eileen Boyce O’Reilly ‘03, Sr. Jean McGrath ‘62, CSJ and Sr. Brian Costello, RSM
‘no, I didn’t like it.’ Now I am comfortable enough to say when I didn’t like a book. I value that we can have different opinions and each of us are ready to back up our reasoning. You can disagree with a great group of people and still look at a person and say ‘I understand now and I see your point.’” “That’s how we know each other and learned to love each other,” added Mary Hendry. When Marie went on to continue her nursing degree, many of her colleagues complained that they wanted to take literature courses. “I didn’t agree because it didn’t fit our discipline. But that experience taught me that I like all kinds of different things, including reading.” Margie said she learned to “juggle a lot of balls in my life. As a young widow and single parent of 10 children, I learned that I can do it -- I did do it -- and sometimes you may think ‘I’m too tired, too worried, too stressed, too busy’...but because this club was something of mine, I would come to women who would embrace me if I didn’t have a very good day. I learned a lot about myself and others and I learned about surviving.” And, when everything else in life seemed overwhelming, the best source of inspiration could be lifted from a book. “We would quote Kate Vaiden from a novel of the same name by Reynolds Price who said ‘get out of bed and brush your hair in the morning and get going,” shared Margie. “We would quote that phrase many, many times.” And so these women keep going, growing and reaffirming that connection and conversation among good friends truly is the best medicine for a life well lived. Visit mothermcauley.org/alumnae to view the list of books the group has read.
Jackie Kean Sister-in-law of Mary Kean Coffey ‘63, mother of Leah Kean Ostry ‘87, Cara Kean Jilek ‘89 and Emma Kean ‘92 Margie King Mother of Beth King Furlong ‘85, Kathleen King Buck ‘87, Kristen King ‘96, Maura King Finn ‘97, Margaret King Elias ‘83, Gigi King Pappas ‘84, Molly King ‘04, mother-in-law of Ellen Woods King ‘93, and grandmother of Jennifer Furlong ‘14, Paige Pappas ‘17 and Elle King ‘23 Mary Ellen LaVoie Former McAuley faculty member and mother of Anne LaVoie Sammons ‘78 and Jeanne LaVoie ‘80 Sister Terry Maltby, RSM McAuley Life Trustee Patricia Daley Martino, SXA ‘54 Sister of Mary Carol Daley Vanecko, SXA ‘54 and the late Eleanor Daley ‘59 Kathleen McLaughlin Mother of Mary Kate McLaughlin Minogue ‘93, Bridget ‘94, Nora ‘96 Sister Jean McGrath, CSJ ‘63 Sister of Mary Kay McGrath ‘60, Margie McGrath Collins ‘71, Julie McGrath Ryan ‘74 and Nancy McGrath Leiser ‘76, cousin of Mary Kean Coffey ‘63 and aunt of many nieces who are alums Pat Monahan Cousin of Sister Nancy Cahill, RSM and Sister Cathleen Cahill, RSM Marie Ruff Mother of Claire ‘90 Marilyn Walsh Wohlberg ‘60 Grandmother of Abigail O’Brien ‘17
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Wellness House Becomes a Home for One of McAuley’s Own By Jennifer Ligda Busk ‘93 Nestled in the middle of a residential area of Hinsdale is a house unlike any other. By all accounts, from its outward appearance, the beautiful framed structure looks like a residence, but it is what it offers within its walls that sets it apart. Just stepping over the threshold into Wellness House one immediately feels immersed in a serene culture of comfort and encouragement. This is a place of respite and release.
foot home in the early 1990s. Another 7,500 was added in 2004 because of the “ever-evolving disease and treatment,” said Jeannie. Each expansion was funded entirely by donated goods and services. A Board of Directors helps fundraise and plan events, like the Wellness Walk and the Gala, to support its $3.6 million budget. Today the 15,000 square foot facility houses a staff of 28 which includes social workers, psychologists, nutritionists and massage therapists, among others. The space features a kitchen where cooking demonstrations are held, therapy and massage rooms, an exercise gym, kid’s area, and the Unique Boutique - a salon offering care for cancer patients skin, body and hair, including wig fittings for those who may have suffered hair loss as a result of chemotherapy. Every program and service is offered free of charge, from Kids Kamp, to Tai Chi, yoga, Reiki, etc. Beyond these are activities which address more critical skills for cancer patients, like how to regain balance and prevent falls.
Jeannie Doyle Cella ‘69
Executive director and McAuley alumna, Jeannie Doyle Cella ‘69 walks into what resembles a living room. Furnished with inviting sofas and bookshelves and walls adorned with artwork and a fireplace, this is very much a living room for a special group of people. It is where several times a month you will find members of a support group for cancer patients and survivors -- from children to adults -- talking about their journey. Here, Jeannie sits down to speak about therapies, treatments, and techniques available through Wellness House and about her 30-year career with the organization as she prepares to retire at the end of this year. Wellness House first opened in July 1990 with the goal to offer psychosocial care - socially, emotionally, physically, spiritually and psychologically - through a variety of programs and resources to support cancer patients and their caregivers. They estimate they have served more than 40,000 people in that time. The original footprint of the House was 1,100 square feet. Jeannie oversaw the tear down and rebuild of a new, 8,000 square
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“Our goal is less about cancer and more about living well. We are addressing the question, ‘How can I have all the tools in my toolbox to manage and fight the disease, feel empowered with information, and develop skills and healthy behaviors?” Ann Dillon Corvino ‘75 has been a yoga instructor at Wellness House since 2008 and views the practice as a great release for patients. They need only show up with a mat. “The beauty of yoga is that it is accessible to everyone, and it’s completely non-judgmental.” Ann says that while yoga is a mental, emotional, spiritual practice, it’s also a physical one. “We’re all on the same journey. I know how to get people there with the proper modifications. I get everyone participating regardless of their needs, and the feedback I receive is that it is calming, relaxing and relieves their anxiety and stress.” It’s not unusual that it’s the family or caregivers that take advantage of the House’s offerings, and not the cancer patient. “Often the patient is too busy with treatment, or just doesn’t want to come here, but we believe cancer is a family illness. It does not just affect the person who is diagnosed. The more members of the family we can help on the journey, the better it is for all involved.”
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Support groups are open to cancer patients, and caregivers, respectively. “Cancer patients may hold things in and not share what they’re feeling with family or caregivers, so they can’t be truly honest and open. As part of patient support groups they can talk openly and find ways to help bring those difficult conversations to the forefront of the patient-caregiver relationship.” Likewise, caregivers may refrain from sharing their fears with their loved one. The House provides a safe space and groups where they can speak openly and honestly. Although located in Hinsdale, the majority of people who come to Wellness House are from DuPage County and Western Cook County. They generally learn of the House through word of mouth or physician offices and major medical centers, like Rush University Hospital and University of Chicago Hospital. Lauren Hoffman, 28, first learned of Wellness House in 2016 through her brother who worked for a company sponsoring the Wellness Walk - one of the House’s two major fundraisers. Held annually, it draws over 3,000 attendees and raises hundreds of thousands of dollars, providing nearly 20 percent of the Wellness House annual budget. Then just a walk participant, Lauren had no idea the turn her life would take. In 2018, after a recurrence of uterine sarcoma, a rare cancer, she found herself seeking connection and support at the House. “There is the feeling that you’re not isolated but there are people going through the same thing you are, even if it’s not the same diagnosis. It’s just knowing that there’s that community and being able to always go back to it.” Lauren attends a young adult cancer patient support group that meets monthly at the House. She’s built friendships with some of the others in the group and they occasionally meet for dinner. She also meets with a social worker, who she says is a good
sounding board and someone who helps her “navigate life.” “I can’t say enough about the House. It’s such a positive and warm place. When you walk in everyone has a smile on their face. There is a counselor who, whenever she sees me, say ‘hey, it’s the smiley girl!’ which really makes it so personal. I’ve been to different programs before but they don’t offer the experience that Wellness House does.” When Lauren began to lose her hair during a course of chemotherapy, she attended a class at Wellness House about how to care for your skin and make it appear that you have eyelashes, and eyebrows. Lauren is hoping, that with her doctor’s clearance, she soon can enroll in yoga classes at the House. Jeannie says the breakout of patient to caregivers seeking support is 50/50, but there is one particular population where she’s seen tremendous growth: men. “We have an average of 25 men come here for a prostate cancer support group. It’s facilitated by a male psychologist and the men are free to talk about anything and everything. It wasn’t that long ago that we felt as if we needed to pay men to come here, or maybe there was a woman standing behind and pushing them through the door. Yet nine out of 10 times what we hear is that once they are here, they love it.”
Fortuitous beginnings Jeannie graduated from the University of Illinois with a degree in social work, and soon after took a job as a probation officer for juveniles in Cook County. She married her high school sweetheart, Paul, and as their family began to grow, Jeannie stayed home to raise their four children. When her youngest went off to kindergarten, she decided to pursue a master’s degree in counseling psychology. Nearing the end of her graduate program she needed to complete an internship. Learning about Wellness House was fortuitous. She had lost her mother to cancer nearly a decade earlier. Jeannie, who was only 22-years old and a new mother, was devastated. “She was my best friend. I felt like my life ended. Part of what made it so awful was the way she dealt with her illness, for which I don’t blame her, but she went into a cocoon and didn’t want anyone to know. At that time lung cancer came with some shame and the stigma of ‘I caused this because I smoked.’” It was nearly a decade later that Jeannie read an article in the local newspaper, The Doings, about a new cancer support center
Loving messages displayed on a wall board at Wellness House
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opening in Hinsdale. She was fascinated. “The article talked about a new organization called The Wellness Community, which was part of a national one, opening in Hinsdale.” (Wellness House later broke away to become its own entity.) “The mission and purpose were to support cancer patients and their caregivers and families.” “I thought, ‘they are opening the window of cancer and you can talk about it and learn about it and it’s not a secret.’ I phoned the executive director and volunteered to intern. I started in August, one month after Wellness House opened, and was responsible for all the interviews with new participants.” At the end of her 6-month internship, Jeannie was invited to stay on in her role part-time, as she completed her graduate studies. She then joined full-time and in 1998 became program director. In 2000, she was named executive director.
Reaffirming research Jeannie shares that the sustainability and success of Wellness House is thanks to the expert staff that manages every facet. “We have high standards and expectations for the kind of professional that works at the House. Everybody is in the appropriate role and working at the highest level of their license.” That includes staying abreast of burgeoning research and developing contacts and relationships with thought-leaders within the cancer and wellness realm. The American Psychosocial Oncology Society (APOS) is a key group for researchers. Most recently, through its affiliation with APOS, the House welcomed researcher Dr. Steven Cole, Ph.D. from the University of California at Los Angeles who spoke of gene expression and how one’s immune system and cells correlate to stress and cancer. The bottom line? Stress doesn’t cause cancer. It can, however, make certain cancers more aggressive and therefore impact the extent to which you have a metastasis. Dr. Cole’s
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research showed something else: that strong social networks and deep personal relationships play a key role in helping our bodies run well. “Everything he said reaffirmed our purpose and mission. Everything we do is designed to bring stress levels down by giving people knowledge and information so they are empowered. Savvy donors know that it costs something to deliver a program that is the caliber of Wellness House, and now we have scientific evidence to prove that what we’re delivering is the right medicine.” Jeannie says the culture is what sets Wellness House apart. Patients can seek services like yoga and massage and mindfulness almost anywhere, but the inclusiveness and experience and human connections fostered cannot be sold. “I use the metaphor equating Wellness House to soup: There are exercise and cooking classes, which are your celery and onion, but you can’t have soup without a broth, which ties everything together. The broth is the relationships that are developed among our patients and the others whose lives are affected by cancer. You can have all the money in the world but you can’t pay for that anywhere. It has to exist for free.”
Outreach As part of Wellness House’s 25th anniversary in 2015, it launched a capital campaign called “Wellness Beyond Walls.” The intent was to raise money to endow programs at the original house. A shift occurred when Jeannie and the board determined that the greatest need was to provide outreach, via the programs offered at the House, to more and diverse communities. “Here, we are landlocked and many people can’t get here, certainly because of geography or transportation barriers, but there also are cultural barriers.”
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Jeannie relayed the story of a physician partner with offices in Naperville and Aurora who sent a male Hispanic patient to the Wellness House.
As Wellness House expands to meet the needs of the everchanging cancer population, Jeannie recognizes that similar changes need to be made internally.
“He pulled up to the house and pulled right out. He never went in. At his next visit, when the doctor asked him how he liked the House, the man said ‘why would you think I belong there?’ He saw the neighborhood and the homes and thought ‘there can’t be anything in there that would be appropriate for me.’ Had he come inside, he would have learned about all we have to offer.”
“Our board are phenomenal fundraisers -- not simply with donations, but who they know and can bring into the fold. However, we also know that the board needs to be more reflective of the areas we are servicing, so we’ve engaged with leaders in the African American and other communities who are helping us diversify.”
Jeannie says that scenarios like that are not uncommon. She recognizes the assumptions people make about the House based simply on its location. “We have done well because of where we are and the generous donors who reside in this community, yet those we serve are not predominantly from this community. So, when we launched the campaign it was because we knew that, ‘To whom much is given, much is expected.’” It was understood that building more Wellness Houses was not the answer. That requires a lot of funding and a lot of maintenance. Instead, the focus was to create partnerships. The board also decided to drop the “Beyond Walls.” “We wanted it to be Wellness House in these new communities. It is not about creating new houses, but rather new experiences where they don’t exist.” Partnerships were forged with 17 medical providers or organizations in underserved communities. Jeannie says they’ve seen the greatest success with hospitals and treatment centers, since that is where the cancer patients are most frequently. Some sites may offer just one program once a month while others offer several. The biggest partner is the University of Illinois at Chicago Medical Center. Wellness House offers programs through the Miles Square Federally-Qualified Health Center, located at Roosevelt Road and Wood Street, where it services AfricanAmerican, Chinese and Hispanic patients and families. “We know we need to meet these people where they are. Our short-term goal is to get cancer resources into the community. Our longer-term goal is to hire people from those communities so we can help develop their talents and resources.”
New tomorrows What is it that makes Wellness House so successful? “For me, it’s the people who come for the support, and our donors and staff. We have excellent people to lead the organization, we invest in staff, our program is constantly evolving, and the generosity of our donors, and especially the culture of community which is part of the fabric of Wellness House. I call it the ‘secret sauce.’ It’s also knowing that at the end of the day that you are part of something that really makes a difference.” Over the course of 30 years, Jeannie has made a difference in ways she never would have imagined. “As an intern, I remember getting to know a patient who came in, scared out of her mind. Her cancer had metastasized and she wanted my help in planning her funeral. She didn’t feel she could speak with her family about it, so she turned to us. Ideally, we want to help family members learn to just listen to the person with the cancer and understand.” As she closes the chapter on her career with Wellness House, Jeannie is eagerly looking forward to the next phase. For the past several months she has been working with a career coach, who she says has helped her find clarity. “I want what’s next to be meaningful to me, and on my terms. Ideally, I’d love to do something part time, and I’m not looking to be the boss, and not exactly to be bossed. People ask if I will stay on in some role with the House, but I know that in order for it to continue to thrive I need to step back so others can step up.” It’s clear that a life well-lived helping others was the key to helping Jeannie achieve her own wellness.
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Awakening Through Asanas: One Alumna’s Yoga Journey to Wellness By Jennifer Ligda Busk ‘93 Enrolling as a freshman at McAuley, Emily Rezetko ‘08 says she was a shy kid who, at times, endured social anxiety. With an interest in performance and dance, she became involved with the McAuley theatre and music program, where the support of friends, peers and teachers helped her discover her voice and build confidence. As she moved into college and faced the mounting pressures of school life, Emily discovered yoga as a release and means to combat her anxiety. Today, the practice remains an integral part of her life. Eager to share her experience with others, Emily completed her teacher training at Nature Yoga in 2014, followed by additional training in sequencing and anatomy, therapeutics, chair yoga, Restorative yoga, and Yoga Nidra. Since 2015, Emily has worked as the manager of Nature Yoga, located in the Wicker Park neighborhood of Chicago. She strives to provide an accessible yoga practice for all levels and abilities through a creatively sequenced class. Emily shared her journey to wellness through yoga, and how she hopes to inspire others to seek the practice as a means to center oneself and build mental, physical and emotional strength. Share with us your path to good health, and your educational path. “I honestly didn’t get healthy until college, because I didn’t understand the importance of it until then. I learned I needed to eat right to feel and perform my best and over the years have
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learned that the food choices we make not only impact our bodies and minds but also our environment. It took me a few years to shift towards a vegetarian diet and over the last year I have been experimenting with veganism. Once I got more into my yoga practice, I learned that compassion and ahimsa (“do no harm”) was important on and off of the mat.” How did you transfer your skills in music and dance into your career? “Movement has always been a big part of my life. I was never competitive or athletic, so I found dance to be the perfect expression through the body. I trained in dance outside of school, but loved being a dancer in the annual musicals and overcoming an injury in high school inspired me to continue to study dance in college. I graduated from University of Iowa with degrees in dance and health sciences, and while in college, I discovered yoga, which felt like the perfect blend of those two interests. I practiced yoga consistently for about four years before enrolling in a teacher training program after college. Planning a yoga class is similar to choreographing dance and my music and theatre background lends to the execution of getting up in front of a group of strangers and teaching.” What advice can you give a student who is interested in a career in health and wellness? “I would tell the student to find something she really loves and believes in and focus on that. For example, I don’t love Pilates or running, so those aren’t things that I incorporate into my teaching or practices. It should be something that you know you can do almost every single day. You really need to take care of yourself to avoid exhaustion and burnout. For a while, I was doing way too much, my body was in pain and I eventually had to let go of some classes and personal training clients. You’ll learn what works best for you and go that route. If you take care of yourself and practice what you preach, you’ll also get the benefits of whatever field you are working in!” How would you educate a person on the benefits of taking charge of their mind and body to improve their mental and emotional health? “After working in the yoga business the last five years, I have
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scription medication. Once I started practicing yoga regularly, I was able to eventually cut down the medication and noticed my sleeping patterns greatly improved. I now sleep better than I ever have before and am completely medication free. I still feel anxiety from time to time, but am able to use breathing techniques and yoga practices to help alleviate it. It’s empowering knowing that we have the ability to help ourselves, but also important to know when we need the help of modern medicine.” Have you seen an increase in people seeking out yoga and meditation to combat anxiety, PTSD, depression, etc?
learned that mental health is utmost important. Without good mental health, how can we do anything else? Do the things you can to take care of yourself and know that seeking outside help is sometimes necessary and completely respectable. To take charge of your mind/body health, you need to know yourself and your habits really well. I have found journaling (specifically making a bullet journal) to be extremely helpful. You can set goals for yourself, track your health habits and how you feel mentally daily. You can tailor your journal to help you in any way you need. When you feel your best, you are more likely to succeed in school, work, and relationships and just be happy and fulfilled.” What typically draws people to yoga/what are the benefits? “The benefits of yoga are vast and range from the inside out. Blood circulation improves, organ health, better respiratory function, digestion, stronger muscles, balance and coordination, flexibility, lowered blood pressure, creating a sense of calm and groundedness, improved focus, energy and sleep. I could go on and on! People know yoga is good for them, so sometimes that’s why they want to try it. Other people might like the physicality, want to heal a physical ailment or are looking for a way to de-stress and practice self-care.” How has yoga impacted your own quality of life? “In college, my anxiety worsened due to the pressures of school and the unknown of graduate school and career success. I put most of this pressure on myself and developed a fear of failure. I experienced heart palpitations often and needed to go on pre-
“Definitely! Restorative Yoga, Yin Yoga and different meditation styles have increased due to this. When we allow ourselves to slow down and rest actively without any distractions, we are able to heal more effectively on the cellular level. There are many different techniques that we can use to improve thought patterns, de-clutter our minds, find groundedness, relaxation and empower ourselves.” How do you envision yoga continuing to change and evolve? “I look forward to a merge of Eastern and Western (modern) medicine. Physicians are now understanding the benefits of yoga and are now telling their patients to seek out the practice. Of course, certain people will always need medication, but when we focus on our health through movement, plant-based diet and meditation, it is proven that dosages can be lessened or eventually diminished. Yoga therapists are becoming more respected in the medical field and might even begin to work with doctors side by side in the treatment of a patient. Yoga has grown in popularity over the last 10 years and is now even incorporated in schools, so it’s great to see that kids are being exposed to it at such a young age. I am confident that 10 years from now, everyone will be practicing yoga.” Get in touch with Emily via email and follow her on social media! emilyrezetkoyoga @fitfoodieyogi www.emily-yoga.com
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Find Yourself Nourished An alumna of Mother McAuley, Wellness Chef Kathy Krzyminski Napleton ‘76 founded Nourished® out of a desire to educate others on how the body works. Sick and tired of seeing people “sick and tired,” she combined her holistic nutrition certification with her longtime passion for cooking to teach people how to look at food differently—to create an awareness that food is fuel and your greatest form of medicine. Located in Hinsdale, Nourished is passionate about cooking healthy and living naturally. They believe in lifestyles, not diets, and in the fact that real food provides for a well-nourished body. They value simplicity in nutrition and whole-home health. Their goal is to provide a learning environment where these ideas can be supported—to embrace the importance of sharing knowledge with others to bring forth a positive movement in sustaining wellness and vitality. Set inside a charming, 120-year-old farmhouse, Nourished offers Adult and Kids’ Cooking Classes, Lunch & Learns, Personalized Nutrition Coaching and an Aromatherapy Bar. Their One-Day Soup Cleanse is available for pick up anytime, and their seasonal, all-inclusive 3-Day Detox Program is a great option for a true reset. Other offerings include Guided Grocery Shopping privately conducted at Whole Foods®, a Wellness Boutique with organic body care and supplements, and a Kitchen Market featuring their Superfood Smoothies, Be Nourished Soups™, Health Boosting Spice Blends and more! Kitchen Market, Wellness Boutique and Aromatherapy Bar hours are Monday through Friday, from 9 am to 6 pm. For more information, including a class schedule, visit nourished.com or call 630.You. Well (968.9355).
From fitness to nutrition to mental health, check out this short-list of alumnae-owned businesses which cater to making sure your wellbeing is on-point! Treadfit is the brainchild of Jenny Dunne Harkins ‘92. With locations in Beverly, Western Springs and soon Palos Heights, Treadfit offers 50-minute customized workouts led by certified trainers. Each class combines cardio training on the treadmill with full body strength training in a welcoming, small group setting. 10458 S. Western, Chicago 4700 Gilbert Ave, Western Springs treadfit.com (312) 206-6090 Often referred to as the blending of pilates and ballet, barre workouts rely on controlled, precise movements to target and tone the muscles in your core, shoulders, thighs and rear end. Barre is designed for anyone as a low-impact, highresult exercise. The Beverly/Mount Greenwood neighborhood is home to two popular barre studios.
Beverly Barre, co-owned by Molly McGarry McAlinden ‘01 and Carrie O’Donnell ‘02, 9909 S. Walden Parkway, Chicago beverlybarrechicago.com (773) 988-2595
Barre it All, founded by Kelly Lynch Lucio ‘04 in 2015 3203 W. 111th Street, Chicago 7950 Lincoln Highway, Frankfort barreitallfitness.com (872) 256-1397
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It’s all in the family for Jenny Farrell Moody ‘84, owner of Beverly Ride On in Evergreen Park. The studio offers spin classes, many of which are led by Jenny and her daughters Gabrielle (Gabby) ‘14 and Madeline ’17, and nieces Molly Carroll ’05 and Erin Barry Wills ‘07. The studio provides an atmosphere where fitness-minded individuals can connect with each other and experience the awesome benefits of indoor cycling. You also can find Jenny instructing pilates classes at Core Fitness, which shares space with Beverly Ride On. 2940 W. 95th Street, Evergreen Park beverlyrideon.com (708) 422-0990
fitness + physical therapy Sharing space with Beverly Ride On you’ll find CORE Fitness + Physical Therapy, owned by Diane Blouin Fidler ’87. CORE’s mission is to provide a unique, hands-on approach to Physical Therapy (PT) utilizing the contemporary Pilates Method and apparatus. Individual and group training is available. Barre and aerial Pilates classes are offered. Diane is trained in applying the Be Activated technique, which uses a system of reflex points throughout the body for optimal muscle recruitment. CORE has just finished a major expansion and now offers group reformer classes as well as extended PT hours. 2940 W. 95th Street, Evergreen Park corefitnesspt.com (708) 422-0990
Chiropractic, massage and acupuncture services, as well as clinicallydesigned nutrition programs, is offered at the Natural Health Improvement Center in Alsip. Owner and lead practitioner, Stacy Phelps ‘94, D.C. says she and her staff focus on helping patients find safe and natural solutions to common health concerns by addressing underlying causes to truly restore health at any stage of life. 5161 W. 111th Street, Alsip naturalhealthalsip.com (708) 636-5555
Kathleen Love ‘92, MS, L.Ac., is an Illinois State licensed, board-certified acupuncturist, and the founder of City Sage Wellness, with locations in River West and Orland Park. City Sage offers Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) which encompasses modalities to heal & balance naturally, such as acupuncture, cupping, healthy weight management programs and more. Kathleen “enjoys working with clients on their individual paths toward well-being, focusing on the connection between body and spirit.” She specializes in the treatment of physical and emotional pain. As a birth doula, she supports families on their journeys from fertility through pregnancy, childbirth and beyond. Her newest venture, Tee Time Treatments, brings wellness to golfers, allowing for more time with Mother Nature and out on the course. 664 W. Hubbard Street, Chicago 15030 S. Ravinia Ave, Orland Park citysagewellness.com (312) 399-5048
Mary France Bazan ‘02 teamed up with her mother to open Marba Dance Studio in Berwyn, Illinois. The duo offers dance classes for children with the goal of teaching them about the art of dance and the importance of staying physically active. Mary France has found that dance has the ability to improve both mental and emotional health in children and adolescents, including agility, concentration, and self-discipline. 2141 Ridgeland Ave, Berwyn marbadance.com (708) 317-5163
Rebecca Rowe ‘08 is a licensed clinical social worker. She operates her private practice, R & R Mental Health Counseling, in LaPorte, Indiana. Rebecca works with teens, adults, couples, and families to help them process and resolve stressors and obstacles. She specializes in stress & anxiety, depression, teen therapy, establishing boundaries, dealing with toxic people, mindfulness, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing and improving sleep. 245 W. Johnson Road, LaPorte IN randrmentalhealthcounseling.com (773) 706-7907
Diana Proctor Pasquinelli ‘79 is coowner of The Local Workout in downtown LaGrange, which opened in 2018. The facility offers cycling, cardio sculpt, Zumba, yoga classes, as well as personal training instructors. 806 Arlington Ave, LaGrange thelocalworkout.com (708) 469 -7651
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Healthy Minds, Bodies and Hearts A Lifetime Advantage In the last decade, rates of anxiety-related disorders in teenagers, particularly in girls, have steadily risen. Researchers believe the increase is due to digital hyperconnectivity (via cell phones and via social media), to external pressures, to simply a greater awareness, and therefore diagnosis, of mental health concerns. Being healthy means having a positive mental attitude, and making safe decisions about one’s body and behaviors. As a community, our faculty, staff and students continue to introduce and host programs and wellness initiatives that provide support, ignite confidence and empower our young women to develop a healthy mindset and relationships. Here’s a look at what we accomplished during the 2019-2020 school year.
Counseling Services With assistance from two professional counseling agencies, on-site counseling sessions were held at McAuley for students identified by the Support Team. A total of 65 students participated in the program titled, “Providing for the Lifelong Wellbeing of Young Women.” The goal of the sessions was to create a nurturing and safe environment that allowed students to speak freely of the issues that negatively impacted their growth as healthy individuals, including topics like self-harm, panic, depression, substance abuse, bullying, and extreme anxiety regarding academic achievement. Within the group setting, guided by a professional therapist, students grew in the awareness that they are not alone in their struggles. They were able to see and treat their peers (those within the group, and those who were not in the program) with heartfelt compassion. Select students who participated in the “Healthy Coping Skills” therapy groups learned the difference between self-defeating behaviors and behaviors that allow them to recognize the dignity of each person, beginning with themselves. In shedding self-defeating behaviors, they became more familiar with non-violent ways of expressing their needs and issues. They learned to reach out to others with compassion, which is at the heart of the “charism of mercy.”
Mothers’ Club Meeting Julia Harris Schultz ‘98 and Maureen McCarthy McClelland ‘98, certified school counselors, led the Mother’s Club during their meeting for moms and daughters on March 11, 2019. They shared a presentation on “Anxiety in Teenagers: Prevention, Management and Support,” which highlighted the basic statistics of anxiety, how anxiety presents itself, and coping strategies.
McAuley is proud to have a partnership with Little Company of Mary Hospital (LCMH) which regularly provides services to our faculty and staff, from offering regular flu shots on-site at school and vitamin D screenings. In May, as part of our Teacher Appreciation Week, a massage therapist from LCMH provided free head and neck massages during free periods.
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Mental Health Awareness Week Twice this year the Counseling Department partnered with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) to host a Mental Health Awareness Week. The purpose was to educate students about the signs and symptoms of mental illness, how to recognize the warning signs and the importance of acknowledging the warning signs. Additional efforts focused on the importance of being mindful, positive and valuing those we love, like parents/caregivers. • Students were encouraged to write thank-you notes and bring a carnation to their parents, grandparents or other special people who have been a constant support throughout their lives. • They were challenged to “pay it forward” by taking an ornament off the “Tree of Kindness,” and enjoyed stress-relieving activities during lunch periods. • Inspirational quotes were posted on student lockers. • Healthy breakfast options were distributed to students as they arrived for school. Green ribbons, the color which represents mental health awareness, were distributed for students to wear.
In honor of International Day of the Girl on October 11, 2018, our Journalism students encouraged their classmates to write down on a strip of paper how they can share their strengths with other girls! They then put everyone’s strengths together in a paper chain to display in the Student Lounge!
Mercy Ministry Grant Provides Student Support Funded through a generous Mercy Ministry Grant provided by the Sisters of Mercy West Midwest Community, McAuley was been able to offer a number of programs and services to help students recognize and address issues that may negatively impact them. These programs were conducted in conjunction with our Student Support Team.
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mcauley hall of honor
Left to right - Carla Hall ‘73, Dawn Jenkinson McKenna ‘86, Sr. Ellen Marie Ryan, RSM, President Mary Acker Klingenberger ‘75, Dr. Jenny Lim ‘80, Mary Cartan Hendry ‘63 and Jenny Costello Fortner ‘94.
Celebrating our 2019 Hall of Honor Inductees Last spring, McAuley inducted six women into its Hall of Honor. The day began with Mass in the school auditorium, celebrated by Father Tom McCarthy, OSA, followed by the induction ceremony. Honorees and guests then enjoyed a champagne brunch in the dining hall. Established in 2013, McAuley Hall is a permanent installation at the school, serving to educate and inspire current and future students and all who visit the school. Inductees into the Hall were chosen from more than 100 nominations. “The work of the honorees has been far reaching, and truly inspires greatness,” said Mary Acker Klingenberger ’75, president. “These women have furthered the mission of higher education; performed groundbreaking work in medicine; brought awareness to critical issues; became entrepreneurs and influencers through their careers and service; and instilled an appreciation of music through their vocation and ministry. They have crafted stories that underscore the power of being a quiet yet forceful leader filled with compassion, kindness, and inclusion.” Read the honorees’ full bios, as well as view photos from the ceremony, and videos about the life of each woman, on our website: www.mothermcauley.org/mcauleyhall During their acceptance remarks, many of the honorees shared how their McAuley experience was infused with opportunities to develop their knowledge, confidence and a strong desire to serve others.
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Jennifer Costello Fortner ’94 is a managing director and a private wealth advisor in the Consumer and Investment Management Division at Goldman Sachs in Chicago. She also is the immediate past board chair of the Special Olympics Illinois Board. In July 2018, she co-chaired the Special Olympics 50th Anniversary in Chicago, raising $10 million. “There is a famous statue on Wall Street titled, ‘Fearless Girl,’” shared Jenny. “In preparing for today, I thought, when it all comes down to it, I am so grateful to Mother McAuley for preparing me to be a strong, confident, and fearless girl as I faced the future, because it is within these walls that I came into my own with the help of amazing teachers, coaches, and dear friends. However, there is one major change to that title that I would make, thanks to my family and my Catholic education, which is ‘Fearless with Faith Girl’ because a life centered in faith was instilled daily at home and at school, and that is truly what has helped me become fearless over the years.” Carla Hall ’73 serves on the editorial board of the Los Angeles Times, where she channels the voice of the paper as a civic body on issues that concern the city, the state, the country and the world. Carla graduated cum laude from Harvard University with a bachelor’s degree in history and science. “I think there’s no greater gift you can give young people — girls and boys — than the gift of taking them seriously and encouraging them to go for anything they want. They may not get it, or they may find something else along the way that they want more, but I always felt that encouragement from my
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parents – and from my teachers here at McAuley. I wish that same kind of support for all the women here at McAuley today — so that, one day soon, they will rule the world, if they want to.” Mary Cartan Hendry ’63 enjoyed a celebrated career in higher education for 44 years. She began her career in 1963 as an Admissions Counselor at Saint Xavier University (then Saint Xavier College), where she served for 29 years before leaving her role as vice president for enrollment management in 1996. Mary then joined Roosevelt University as vice president for enrollment management and student affairs. “Our McAuley years gave us the foundation for the rest of our lives – for college, for careers, for our families,” said Mary. “Before the term ‘women’s liberation’ was coined, we were learning to be confident decision makers who would follow a myriad of paths that lay before us.” Dr. Jennifer I. Lim ’80 holds the Marion H. Schenk Esq., Chair in Ophthalmology for Research in the Aging Eye as a Professor of Ophthalmology and Director of the Retina Service at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Dr. Lim has received numerous professional awards and distinctions, and has authored or co-authored over 300 articles, 30 book chapters and edited several books including Age-Related Macular Degeneration, which is currently in its Third Edition. “My years at Mother McAuley instilled in me confidence, knowledge, writing skills, leadership skills and critical reasoning skills that prepared me for future success,” said Dr. Lim. “At McAuley, I learned from amazing teachers and received expert guidance from caring counselors. If time could be reversed, I would choose to once again enroll at McAuley.” Dawn Jenkinson McKenna ’86 is one of America’s most successful, creative, and sought-after luxury real estate agents. She is the number one agent in Chicago and the Midwest, for the past decade she has been the number one agent in Hinsdale, IL and a member of the Coldwell Banker President’s Elite top one percent of agents. Dawn’s record sales have been recognized by the Wall Street Journal, RealTrends rankings, Forbes and Crain’s Chicago Business. In her remarks Dawn shared that “McAuley was like a home, and it gave me confidence and tools to feel I could conquer the world. It was a magical place for me. I always say I was lucky, but my husband says ‘luck favors the prepared.’” Sister Ellen Marie Ryan, RSM was a member of the Mother McAuley music faculty for over 30 years. She taught a variety of classes including general music, chorus, and directed the a cappella choir and orchestra. As department chairperson, she grew the faculty and program, including opportunities for choral and instrumental students to travel to competitions, festivals, civic and church functions and Mercy schools across the country for performances. “To have served at Mother McAuley has been a gift in my life and I give thanks that I can continue to serve in some small ways,” said Sister Ellen. “I am so proud of my former students, for what you have become. You represent all that Mother McAuley seeks for its young women today.”
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alumnae news & events
Alumnae Events Banner Year Reunion November 3, 2018 More than 650 alumnae walked down memory lane - literally - at their banner year reunions on November 3!
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alumnae news & events
Winter 2018-2019 Palmer House
College Hang-out January 10, 2019 Lots of hugs and laughs as our college-aged alumnae visited over their winter breaks!
December 6, 2018 Getting into the Christmas spirit with a concert by the talented Advanced Chorus, A Cappella Choir, and Mac Melody Choir at the Palmer House.
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alumnae news & events
Spring 2019 Career Day March 1, 2019 60+ alumnae + 50+ different careers = 875+ inspired Mighty Macs!
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alumnae news & events
Class of 1969 - 50th Reunion May 3, 2019 It was like no time had passed at the Class of 1969 50th Reunion alumnae caught up, laughed, and reminisced about their high school days!
Save the date! Fall Musical Happy Hour Thursday, November 21 Join us for cocktails and networking before watching a performance of “Grease.”
Christmas Cheer at the Palmer House Thursday, December 12, 2019
Alumnae Basketball Night Thursday, January 9, 2020
College Hang-out
Thursday, January 9, 2020
Celebration 2020
Friday, January 31, 2020
Career Day
Friday, February 28, 2020
McAuley Hall Induction & Alumnae Mass Sunday, March 29, 2020
Class of 1970 50th Reunion Friday, April 24, 2020
Mother McAuley Mother’s Day Mass & Beverly Breast Cancer Walk Sunday, May 10, 2020
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alumnae news & events
Senior Alumnae Induction Breakfast & Ceremony May 10, 2019 The Class of 2019 joins a community of more than 28,000 alumnae worldwide. They were sent off with a farewell and advice from Kathleen Kelly ‘09, digital content and social media manager at McAuley, who wrote a parody to the song “Good Old Days.”
Beverly Breast Cancer Walk May 12, 2019 We celebrated all the members of our community who are loving mothers or mother figures, and honored those who are fighting a battle and those who have gone before us at our outdoor Mass, celebrated by Fr. Tom Hurley.
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alumnae news & events
Graduation Legacy May 19, 2019 33% of the Class of 2019 are legacy families! This tradition and legacy were celebrated with a free legacy photo at McAuley on graduation day.
Clifford: (from left) Mary Ellen Carroll Clifford ‘84, Maggie Clifford ‘14, Tess Clifford ‘19, Mary Kate Clifford ‘18, Molly Clifford ‘16
Herring: (from left) Tammy Herring ‘83 and Shenia Herring ‘19
O’Shea: (from left) Mary Ellen McLoughlin Merbeth ‘81, Alice McLoughlin Doro ‘82, Rose O’Shea ‘19, and Agnes McLoughlin O’Shea ‘85
Flores: (from left) Alexandra Flores ‘17, Leah Flores ‘19, Stephanie Flores ‘07, Cassandra Flores Mueller ‘13
Pasquinelli: (from left) Barbara Moore Pasquinelli ‘57, Kathryn Pasquinelli ‘19 and Maureen Kenny Pasquinelli ‘89
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alumnae news & events
Summer 2019 White Sox Night June 10, 2019 Two South Side favorites united at our annual White Sox Night! We were proud to cheer on Annie McEldowney ‘06 as Hero of the Game!
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Mac-tail Hours Open Outcry June 19, 2019 Tiny Tap July 24, 2019 Exceptional food, cocktails and connecting with fellow Mighty Macs - the perfect ingredients for a summer evening!
alumnae news & events
Fall 2019 Fore the Macs Golf Outing August 29, 2019 Held at Ridge Country Club, the Fore the Macs: Playing it Forward golf outing raised enough money to fund 70, $1,000 Tradition of Excellence scholarships for the daughters and granddaughters of McAuley alumnae who will become members of the Class of 2024. This surpasses the 53 scholarships we awarded in 2018! During dinner, we were pleased to honor Anne Czarnecki ‘98, program director for Ronald McDonald House® (RMH) near Advocate Children’s Hospital in Oak Lawn, with the Caring Heart Award. It was named in honor of alumna Caroline Griffin ‘12, who passed away in 2015 as a result of ongoing cardiac issues. The award was presented to Anne by Georgina Byrnes Griffin ’76 and Courtney Griffin ’08, mother and sister of Caroline. Members of the golf outing committee include Bob and Nancy Padden Barrett ’75, Mike and Monica Carey, Marybeth Cullen Connor ’76, Barb Duffy ‘85, Mike and Mary Harkins Geraghty ‘89, Joe and Erin McDermott Goldrick ‘00, Barb Hamel ’75, Ken and Sallie Wiechern King ’68, Brian and Jenny Gillespie Kribs ‘96, David and Anne Marie Walsh Reed ’73, Maura Reilly ’05, Jim and Anne Bigane Wilson ’76 and Pat and Sara Philips McGann ’96.
Anne Czarnecki ‘98, Courtney Griffin ‘08 and Georgina Byrnes Griffin ‘76.
“McAuley and RMH are alike in many ways . . . We both believe in the future. We believe that providing a solid foundation sets the stage for successful outcomes. We believe in the power of family.” A N N E C Z A R N EC K I ‘ 9 8
We are grateful to the many sponsors and donors who helped make Fore the Macs a success! Visit our website at mothermcauley.org/alumnae/golf-2019 to view the complete list.
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Alumnae Volleyball Night October 3, 2019 We had a great time celebrating our 2019 GCAC Inductees, Meg Griffin Gardner ‘99 and the 2004 Mighty Mac State Championship Volleyball Team.
Saint Xavier Academy Reunion November 3, 2019 Graduates from our predecessor, Saint Xavier Academy, were thrilled to catch up at a luncheon held at Ridge Country Club.
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These Macs came back Ashleigh Cortes ‘11 and Danielle Cortes DeVito ‘92 spoke with our Mighty Macs about the “Stay Beautiful Foundation” in October 2018. This mother-daughter duo started the foundation to assist women with their beauty needs as they go through cancer treatment, as a way to help keep them feeling motivated, inspired and beautiful while on their cancer journey. Our Macs were able to show their support for the cause by purchasing pink cupcakes during lunch periods.
Thanks to all the alumnae who returned throughout the year to speak with our Catherine McAuley Honors Scholars about college and careers! (standing, from left) Sarah Johanet ‘18, Emily Baniewicz ‘18, Katherine Rogers ‘18, Kali Foyle ‘18, Kaleigh O’Hara ‘18, Grace Trippiedi ‘18 (sitting, from left) Cecilia Crane ‘18, Stacey Manahan ‘18, Katelyn Howley ‘18, Faith Carey ‘18 We welcomed back Olivia Seweryn ‘16 on March 18, 2019 to speak to visual arts students. Olivia is a junior at Iowa State University in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences with a major in biological/pre-medical illustration. She has combined her love of science and visual art to find her niche. Melissa Carroll ‘17 addressed our Engineering Principles Class in October 2018. Melissa is currently enrolled in the Engineering Pathways Program & spent last summer as a technical assistant in the Dynamic Compression Sector at Argonne National Lab. This fall, Melissa will be continuing her education in the Electrical Engineering program at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Michelle Dinneen-White ‘86, founder of PlaySmart Literacy, spoke with our Little School students in October 2018. She shared the importance of building language and relationship through play, and how our Little School Teachers can incorporate these concepts into their classrooms.
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These Macs came back McAuley held its first Leadership Camp this summer! MIGHTY thanks to these five women for inspiring and guiding our future Mac leaders! Carli Weiler ‘08, founder & director of Volley Chicago, now director of enrollment management at McAuley.
Marie LeConte Pawlak ‘87, managing principal for Planning101 Group
Erica Rangel Hilbert ‘99, managing director of The Mill Chicago
Julia Carey ‘07, process development engineer for Fruity Confections for Mars Wrigley Confectionery - Julia called in from a Mars plant in Amsterdam, Netherlands! Carol Martinelli Bartucci ‘82, president of Crisp Consulting, LLC
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Alumnae Notes 1961 Eileen O’Grady Arzani ‘61 (left) retired from the Forensics DepartmentDomestic Relations Division on December 21, 2018. She served as a custody evaluator for 33 years. She is pictured with co-workers and fellow McAuley alumnae Susana Dominguez ‘95 (right) and Molly McAdams Christopher ‘57 (seated), who retired in 2017.
Heather Cavanagh Maher ‘61 also got lunch with Betty Nichel Overleas ‘61 in Casa Grande, AZ this March!
1969 Geraldine Carls Worden ‘69 is enjoying her retirement by renovating an older home, gardening, painting, traveling and spending time with her 2 grandchildren. Her oldest granddaughter, Emma Looney is currently a junior at McAuley, so she’s been spending time in McAuley’s gym watching different sports events! Judy Maniatis Hickey ‘61 (left), Heather McIntosh McCullough ‘61 (center) and Peggy Cavanagh Maher ‘61 (right) got together at Maggiano’s in Scottsdale, AZ in March 2019. They had a blast catching up, and ended up staying until the restaurant closed.
1973 Anne Edwards-Cotter ‘73 received the Chicago Building Conference 2018 Award of Honor at the Union League Club. The award is the highest personal achievement award that can be bestowed upon an individual in the Chicago Building Industry. This prestigious award recognizes an outstanding leader for his or her lifetime contributions to the art and science of construction. Anne is the former chair of the McAuley Board of Trustees. She is pictured in the center, with Anne Bigane Wilson ‘76, also former McAuley board chair, on her left, and president Mary Acker Klingenberger ‘75 on her right. In addition, Anne was included in Crain’s Chicago Business 2019 Notable Women Executives Over 50!
1971 Eileen Driscoll-Hensel ‘71 lived in Colorado for almost 25 years with her husband, Lee, before moving back to Chicago seven years ago. Eileen has a master of arts in reading and a master of education in educational leadership. For most of her career, she taught fifth and sixth grades. Now, she enjoys teaching religious education in her parish and visiting her grandchildren.
1972 Christie Gallagher Sever ‘72, chair of the McAuley Board of Trustees, published a book, Sound the Warning: Children of the World Book 1, in 2018 with cover art by current senior Elizabeth Carroll ‘19.
1975 Beth McElroy Kirkwood ‘75 was elected to the Moraine Valley Community College Board of Trustees on April 2, 2019.
1976 Mary Kay Ransford Simpson ‘76 and her husband Bill relocated to Portland, Oregon in 2012 where she currently is responsible for Intel’s exclusive partner event, Connect. Connect takes place in three regions globally, the Americas, Asia and EMEA where their valued partners have the op-
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portunity to hear about Intel’s latest technology, build new relationships with Intel’s most valued ecosystem partners, participate in various technical workshops, engage in networking and match-making sessions, and gain insight from technology innovators and leading visionaries on where the market is heading. With over 3,500 attendees globally, 50 unique breakout sessions, 30K square feet of solutions showcase, meetings with Intel’s decision makers and experts and a broad ecosystem of partners, Connect offers excellent opportunities to collaborate and transform businesses. Anne Bigane Wilson ‘76 was presented the 2019 Distinguished Engineering Alumni/Alumnae Award from Purdue University. The award is bestowed upon those who have distinguished themselves in any field in ways that reflect favorably on Purdue University, the engineering profession, or society in general. In addition, Anne was included in Crain’s Chicago Business 2019 Notable Women Executives Over 50!
1977 Terri Connor Brankin ‘77 was named the vice president of resource development for Navy Pier, Inc. in the summer of 2018. Our Art students took a field trip to Navy Pier to visit the Sculpture and Objects of Functional Art Exhibition, and had the opportunity to speak with Terri about her role! They also viewed an array of innovative designs, had the opportunity to work on mosaics, and visit with artists.
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1978
1982
After 15 years of taking Pilates classes, Kathy Houlihan Janke ‘78 decided to get certified and start a business. Kathy highly recommends Pilates and has been teaching for about three years in Bloomington, IL, where she has lived for the past 26 years with her husband of 35 years. They have one daughter who is married and lives in Birmingham, AL working as a yoga therapist. She and her husband are active members at Epiphany Catholic Church. They travel to the Chicago area regularly as her parents and sisters are in also in the area.
Meg Bigane ‘82 became the principal of St. Giles School in Oak Park in July 2018, and was featured in an article in Oak Leaves in February.
Original Rainbow Cone, owned by Lynn Sapp ‘78, was voted the Best Frozen Treat in the 2019 Chicago Tribune’s Readers’ Choice Dining Awards.
1980 Lynn Malooly ‘80 is the executive director of Water for South Sudan, a nonprofit dedicated to drilling wells across South Sudan. Lynn began working for the organization in a parttime administrative role, which has since grown into her current leadership role. So far, Water for South Sudan has drilled 340 wells and its goal is to add 40 more each season. Lynn was recently honored by the University of Notre Dame, her alma mater, for her great work. Linda Zeiler Temple ‘80 was featured in the Beverly Review in January for her volunteer work at Holistic Riding Equestrian Therapy (HRET), which supports people with special needs and military veterans. The 42-acre farm is located in Lemont, and provides an opportunity for participants to ride therapy horses and take care of other farm animals.
Melody Spann Cooper ‘82 of WVON 1690AM had the privilege of being one of only two radio personalities to interview former first lady Michelle Obama during her visit to Chicago in November 2018 to promote her new book, Becoming. Anita Bolanos Ventrelli ‘82 has been recognized as the “2019 Distinguished Alumna” by the DePaul University College of Law – the highest distinction the College of Law can bestow. She also was named a 2018 National Women in Law Honoree in the Transformative Leadership category by Corporate Counsel. Anita has been a senior partner with Schiller DuCanto & Fleck, LLC since 2010, and has been with the firm since 1988.
1983 Melody Byrd ‘83 graduated from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign with a degree in health. She began her career as a healthcare software implementation consultant and after nine years, took on a role as a Senior Business Analyst. Most recently, she has become a certified trainer and now manages a STEM training program. Melody
alumnae news & events
loves what she does, as she gets to transform peoples’ lives through career training. In addition, she is an accomplished speaker and certified life coach. As a child, she was fearful of the unknown, scared to take risks and just unsure about her future. However, over the past eight years, she has taken on transforming her own life and can now say that she is proud of what she does and exceptionally proud of who she is for the world! Colleen Murtaugh Domke ‘83 has been a teacher and administrator in Catholic schools since 1991, and a principal at St. Joseph Grade School for eight years. Liz Doody Gorman ‘83, executive director of the Illinois Toll Highway Authority, spoke at the City Club of Chicago in September 2018. The City Club of Chicago provides a venue for members and non-members to hear politicians, business leaders, and community leaders discuss a wide variety of public policy issues.
1984 Julie Brixie ‘84 was elected to the Michigan House of Representatives on November 6, 2018. Michelle Dinneen-White ‘84, founder and director of PlaySmart Literacy, was chosen by the National Center For Families Learning as a finalist for the 2018 Toyota Family Teacher of the Year!
1985 As a Certified Child Life Specialist for 25 years, Kathleen Andrews Wallensack ‘85 has established a
Consulting Company, Branches: Child Life Consulting & Therapeutic Services, focusing on supporting children and families facing illness, loss, and life altering events. She also has received her certification in Child Life Disaster Relief.
recognizing sudden cardiac arrest vs. heart attack.
1986 Michelle Forbes ‘96 started a new position as the court administrator Fifth Municipal District Circuit Court of Cook County in spring 2019. Dawn Jenkinson McKenna ‘86, McAuley Hall of Honor 2019 inductee, was named one of Crain’s Chicago Business’s 2019 Notable Residential Real Estate Brokers.
1988 Michelle Walsh Ozanne ‘88 was named a Top Producer for Windermere Homes & Estates in April 2019. Michelle is a realtor in Windermere’s Carlsbad, CA office.
1991 Tamara Anderson ‘91 starred in the musical Nunsense on Broadway in Portland, ME in the summer/fall of 2018.
1992 Danielle Cortes DeVito ‘92 has been educating others on Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) techniques for years. In August 2018, she filmed live segments for the Hands Only CPR training kiosk in LA, one of which aired in West Palm Beach, FL, and recently led a CPR workshop at Chicago’s Black Women’s Expo at McCormick Place. In this workshop, she taught CPR and discussed the importance of
1993 Tricia Fitzgerald Halper ‘93 was named one of Crain’s Chicago Business 2019 Notable Women in Finance. Tricia is chief investment officer for the equity business at Chicago Equity Partners, a multiproduct asset management investment platform founded in 1989 with $6 billion in assets under management. Halper oversees the firm’s equity products as well as the equity portfolio management and quantitative research groups.
1994 Kelly Doyle Coakley ‘94 was appointed chairperson of the Criminal Justice Section of the Illinois State Bar Association (ISBA) for 2019-2020. The ISBA has more than 28,000 voluntary attorney members from across the State of Illinois. Kelly will be leading one of the largest section committees with more than 700 members for the coming year. The mission of ISBA Criminal Justice Section is to work for a system of criminal justice that fairly protects the accused, the accuser, and the public in general; to seek or oppose change, as considered appropriate, by legisla-
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tive activity, make recommendations on court rules and recommendations to agencies; and to educate and inform lawyers and the general public through newsletters, seminars and other appropriate channels of communication. She also received the Citizen Service Award from the Orland Park Police Department at the end of November 2018.
Mel Paradis Flynn ‘94 has been performing and facilitating improv with groups ranging from preschoolers through adults in addition to working as a freelance writer and elementary gifted and talented teacher/ coordinator. On April 1, her book, Teaching Improv: The Essential Handbook by was published through Beat by Beat Press. While it is geared to drama teachers, general education teachers can utilize the lessons to boost student engagement, creativity, critical thinking, communication and collaboration. Mel lives in the Teton Mountain Range in Idaho with her husband and two kids. Jennifer Costello Fortner ‘94, 2019 McAuley Hall of Honor inductee, was inducted into the 2018 University of
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Chicago Athletics Hall of Fame. Jenny played guard for the UChicago women’s basketball team.
1997 Claudette Soto ‘97 (right) was construction mana g e r/o w n e r ’ s representative for Chicago’s new development, The Hatchery, a nonprofit food and beverage incubator dedicated to helping local entrepreneurs build & grow successful businesses. Claudette participated at a ribbon-cutting ceremony with Mayor Emanuel and other dignitaries on December 6, 2018.
K a t h l e e n Moody Malone ‘97 was included in Crain’s Chicago Business as a 2019 Notable Residential Real Estate Brokers.
1999 English faculty member & Certified Journalism Educator, Diana Burban ‘99, joined the IHSA Journalism Advisory Board Committee at the beginning of 2019. She is the only educator from a Catholic school serving on the board. Dean of Upperclasswomen and McAuley Volleyball Coach Meg Griffin Gardner ‘99 was inducted into the Girls Catholic Athletic Conference Hall of Fame as a coach, as well as an athlete, along with her former 2004-2005 McAuley State Champion Volleyball teammates. They were honored at an induction ceremony in April 2019.
Maya Camille Broussard ‘97 moved into The Hatchery this year to expand her business, Justice of the Pies. You can also check out her shop in the Chicago Riverwalk’s new Community Marketplace. Maya (right) is pictured with Claduette.
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Special thanks to Erica Rangel Hilbert ‘99 (The Mill Creative Agency), Carrie Joyce Nowicki ‘01 (PepsiCo) and Nora Kellam Quartaro ‘02 (Altair Advisers) for welcoming members of the Mother McAuley and St. Rita High School “Professional Advice Beyond the Classroom” Clubs to their workplace in January 2019! (Read more about the Advice Beyond the Classroom program in the School News section of this Inscape!)
and a 6-piece band. The show was conceived, written and produced by Andrea five years ago as a birthday gift to her dad.
term outcomes without as many toxicities. Alicia received her medical degree from the Warren Alpert Medical School at Brown University in Rhode Island, and then returned to the Chicago area for pediatric residency at Advocate Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn. She previously held a fellowship in Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation at Lurie. Nora Kellam Quartaro ‘02 - see update under Erica Rangel Hilbert ‘99
2001
Angela Kus ‘99 was on the Chicago television talk show, Windy City LIVE, in early January to talk about her job as varsity wrestling head coach at Nicholas Senn High School.
2000 Aileen Mullee-DiTuri ‘00 is a mother of four and, after several years in the travel industry, has opened her own travel agency, Just Add Magic Travel, which specializes in vacations to Disney Destinations, Universal Orlando, and Sandals and Beaches All-Inclusive Resorts. Andrea Prestinario ‘00 brought her solo show, “sMOkeyTOWN: The Songs of Smokey Robinson,” to the Beverly Arts Center on April 12, 2019. This tribute to Motown legend Smokey Robinson featured special guest vocalists
Maggie Hughes DePalo ‘01 and Mary Kate Beck ‘11 co-produce a monthly comedy showcase called “All That Good Stuff” at Cork and Kerry. They held their first show in June 2018 and have also held showcases at Open Outcry Brewing Co. in Beverly and the Lagunitas Chicago TapRoom & Beer Sanctuary. Jennifer Haberkorn ‘01 covered Congress as a reporter for the Los Angeles Times as part of their Washington bureau in the summer/fall of 2018. She previously worked as a Senior Health Care Reporter for Politico and Politico Pro, and as a reporter for the Washington Times. She is a graduate of Marquette University’s School of Journalism. Carrie Joyce Nowicki ‘01 - see update under Erica Rangel Hilbert ‘99
2002 Alicia Thompson Lenzen, MD, ‘02 has joined Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago as an attending pediatric neuro-oncologist and an assistant professor at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. Her new role includes treating and caring for all children with brain and spinal cord tumors, as well as translational research with the development of novel therapeutics and early phase clinical trials to help improve long
2003 In celebration of National Random Acts of Kindness Week, the Mighty Mac soccer players teamed up with Buddy’s HELPERS 501(c)(3), which engages & educates student athletes about the importance of “Making A Difference On AND Off The Field,” and the PepsiCo Showdown Series, the largest high school sports series in the U.S., to surprise Jenna Frasor ‘03 and her first grade class at Whistler Elementary with scooters and books for each child!
Colleen Mixan Mikaitis ‘03 was named one of the 2018 Chicago Daily Law Bulletin and Chicago Lawyer’s “40 under 40.” This award recognizes up-andcoming attorneys across Chicago and the state. Each year, the selection committee receives approximately 1,000 nominations. Honorees are chosen based on the strength of the nomination, what they
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have accomplished in their careers so far and how they give back to the community through pro bono or other civic endeavors. Colleen is a senior associate trial attorney at Levin & Perconti, where she has worked since she graduated from the John Marshall Law School in 2013.
Kate McIntosh Grant ‘04, a Special Olympics coach and Chicago Park District special recreation coordinator, was honored as part of the Chicago Air & Water Show’s Hometown Hero program in August 2018. She had the opportunity to fly with U.S. Air Force Major Eric Gorney.
Lauren Bozzi Miller ‘03 taught special education for nearly eight years and then switched careers to work in sports. She is currently working for the Chicago Blackhawks.
2005
Jennifer Moss ‘03 joined the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees Motion Picture Costumers Union 705. She works on feature films, television and commercials. She also maintains a personal styling business that includes some of Hollywood’s finest stars. t Becky Moran Quijano ‘03 was recently asked to do makeup for ABC.
The 2004-2005 McAuley State Champion Volleyball team was inducted into the Girls Catholic Athletic Conference Hall of Fame this year, and was honored at an induction ceremony in April 2019. Teammates include Caitlin Balsam ‘05, Kate Corley ‘05, Stephanie Cummings ‘05, Colleen Henehan ‘05, Bridget Kennedy Hosman ‘05, Jen Kozlarek ‘05, Katie Clemens McCarthy ‘05, Meghan Meyrer McCarthy ‘05, Bridget O’Brien ‘05, Jana Wojcik ‘05, Kate Corbett Callaghan ‘06, Emily McGinnis Connolly ‘06, Kim Richards Garvey ‘06, Caitlin Strimel Hopkins ‘06, Ashlee Lindish ‘06 and Brittany Cermak ‘07. Katie Spelman ‘05 was the assistant choreographer for “Rent” which aired live on FOX on January 27, 2019. Katie also is an associate choreographer for the new Broadway show, “Moulin Rouge” which opened July 25 at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre.
Renita Young ‘03 joined Bloomberg TV’s on-air reporting team in early February. Bloomberg TV is the only worldwide 24-hour business and financial television news network, a top news provider of the 21st century and the world’s primary distributor of financial data.
2004 Anastacia Tucker Dutchess ‘04 had a small role in an episode of the Netflix original series, “It’s Bruno!”
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2006 Kate Corbett Callaghan ‘06, Emily McGinnis Connolly ‘06, Kim Richards Garvey ‘06, Caitlin Strimel Hopkins ‘06, and Ashlee Lindish ‘06 - see update on the 2004-2005 McAuley State Champion Volleyball team under “2005”
2007 Brittany Cermak ‘07 - see update on the 2004-2005 McAuley State Champion Volleyball team under “2005” After graduating from the University of Illinois in Media Studies/Advertising, Brittany Rollheiser ‘07 attained a position in Digital Media with Mindshare in Chicago. In 2017, as an associate director partner of the Chicago Digital Investment Group, Brittany was recognized and awarded in New York as a Cynopsis Media Rising Star in the industry. She currently works as a director for Tyson Foods and American Family Insurance.
2009 Brigid O’Keefe ‘09 recently graduated with honors from National University of Ireland, Galway with a master’s degree in information systems management. After practicing law in Dayton, Ohio for about three years, Michelle Thompson ‘09 was named the Dayton Bar Association’s “Rising Star” for the month of January 2019, was awarded the Ohio State Bar Foundation’s 2019 Community Service Award for Attorney’s “40 and 40” and also was named into the Dayton Busi-
alumnae news & events
ness Journal’s “40 Under 40” Class of 2019. Although she continues to serve the Dayton community, she recently moved to Cincinnati, Ohio and practices product liability and complex business litigation with the law firm Ulmer & Berne LLP.
polar vortex struck Chicago during the last week of January 2019.
Anna VanDeKerchove ‘09 began a new role in development as the donor engagement and stewardship coordinator at the Lyric Opera of Chicago in August 2018. She continues to enjoy singing with the Chicago Symphony Chorus, Music of the Baroque, Bella Voce, and as a soloist in Chicago!
Jill Riordan Striz ‘11 won the Golden Apple Award in Collier County Florida in February 2019. As a fourth year teacher, Jill is one of the youngest winners of this prestigious award. She received $5,000 to spend on her third grade classroom at Village Oaks Elementary School in Immokalee, FL, in addition to a $500 grant. Jill graduated from Ave Maria University in 2015, where she was presented with an award from the school of education for her accomplishments.
2010
2012
Meaghan Moran ‘10 was named the Teacher of the Year by Arts @ Large, a nonprofit organization in Milwaukee, WI. She received the award at a gala on May 17, 2019.
Angel Idowu ‘12 joined “Chicago Tonight” as the JCS Fund of the DuPage Foundation Arts correspondent in July 2019. She comes to WTTW from WJTV12, the CBS affiliate in Jackson, Mississippi, where she served as a reporter and producer. Previously, she worked for Pretoria News in South Africa, and as a Capitol Hill reporter for Medill News Service in Washington, D.C. Angel received her M.S. in journalism from Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism. Joanna Ziarko ‘12 was on an episode of “Wheel of Fortune!” in April. She won a new car and a trip to Costa Rica!
2011 Mary Kate Beck ‘11 - see update under Maggie Hughes DePalo ‘01 Shannon McCann ‘11 organized a collection drive that included blankets, pillows, hats, scarves and care packages for those without shelter as the
2013 Shana Pembroke ‘13 was selected as the 2019 Chicago Rose on April 6! She participated in the annual Irish International Rose of Tralee festival in August 2019 in Tralee, County Kerry, Ireland.
2014 When Kailyn Bates ‘14 graduated from McAuley, she had been awarded 11 individual scholarships to assist with college tuition. After learning from her experiences applying to scholarships, and understanding how overwhelming that can be, she and her mom started an organization called Scholars Path to assist other students with obtaining scholarships. Kellen Dempsey ‘14 is an AmeriCorps service member at a non-profit organization called College Access Now. She serves as a college coach at Garfield High School in Seattle, Washington, working with and supporting 12th grade students from low-income backgrounds as they navigate the college application process and the many barriers first-generation students face in accessing higher education. Karlie Hernandez ‘14 recently purchased Pizzeria Deepo, located at 1742 W. 99th St. in Beverly, and re-opened the restaurant on April 2, 2019. Kathy Powell ‘14 recently started a job as a graphic designer at Ulta Beauty. Yasmeen Rodriguez ‘14 graduated in May 2018 from Trinity Christian College with a double major in psychology and Spanish with a minor in music. Yasmeen currently works as an administrative coordinator for DUI Counseling Centers helping run two of their offices.
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Maggie Scully ‘14, Grace Barry ‘14 and their team were awarded an Emmy in the fall of 2018 by the Ohio Valley Chapter of the National Academy of Arts and Sciences for their work on a project entitled Epicenter: Dayton’s Opioid Crisis. Grace arranged the music and Maggie was the cinematographer. Their work is readily available on YouTube. Both alumnae graduated from the University of Dayton in 2018.
working as a project engineer in their Pathways Rotational Program. Allison Broad ‘15 graduated from the University of Illinois at Chicago and is applying to medical school. In the time between graduation and med school matriculation, she’ll be working as a scribe within the University of Chicago hospital system. Catherine Burns ‘15 graduated with a B.A. degree as a Spanish major with a biology minor from Saint Louis University (SLU). She’ll be attending Indiana University School of Medicine. During her junior year of college, she received early acceptance to SLU’s Medical School, but turned it down in order to apply in the general pool of applicants after taking the Medical College Admissions Test. She’s very proud of herself for scoring in the 98th percentile on the MCAT last year.
2015 Congratulations to these Mighty Macs who graduated from college last spring! Megan Baker ‘15 graduated from the University of South Carolina (and South Carolina Honors College) with a B.S. in biomedical engineering, magna cum laude. In college, Megan participated in research at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine studying aneurysm mechanics and repair. She will be continuing school at Rush University working towards an M.S. in cardiovascular perfusion. It is a two-year program and upon completion she will work as a cardiovascular perfusionist (running the heart and lung machine during bypass surgery). Maureen Berglind ‘15 graduated from Saint Louis University with a major in aerospace engineering and began working at LMI Aerospace in St. Charles, MO. LMI Aerospace is a structural component provider for the large aerospace companies around the world. She’s very excited to be
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Erin Coghlan ‘15 graduated from the University of Wisconsin- Madison with a degree in finance. She’s now working an investment banking analyst at BMO Capital Markets in Chicago. While in college, she participated in Lean In, an organization dedicated to personal and professional development of young women. Erin Cunnea ‘15 graduated from Loyola University Chicago with a double major in English and secondary education, and a minor in theatre. She plans to pursue a career as a high school English and theatre teacher. During her senior year, Erin held a teaching internship at Senn High School, an arts magnet/IB school. This summer Erin assisted with the McAuley “Curtain Call” theatre camp. Tara Duffy ‘15 received her undergraduate degree in biomedical sciences from Marquette University this spring. She will be continuing at Marquette for two more years in the graduate physician assistant program, and will graduate in May 2021.
Suzanne Dwyer ‘15 is pursuing her doctorate in pharmacy at Butler University, and will graduate in 2021. She also is working at Franciscan Alliance, Inc. as a pharmacy technician, oncology and hematology specialists. Sarah Dynia ‘15 was featured on CBS Chicago for her work with her nonprofit, Stuffed Love. She graduated from Northwestern University this spring with a degree in neuroscience. Elizabeth Gill ‘15 graduated from Loras College this spring and is pursuing her masters in clinical psychology in the fall. Mary Graeber ‘15 graduated magna cum laude with a degree in nursing from Saint Louis University (SLU) this spring. Since her sophomore year at SLU, she has worked as an outreach coordinator for a non-profit, Camp Kesem. Camp Kesem is a nationwide community, driven by passionate college student leaders, that supports children through and beyond their parent’s cancer. This year, Mary was chosen to receive the Butterfly Award, which is given to someone who embodies the Kesem mission. She also studied abroad and did a nursing clinical rotation in Madrid. Mary is now working in St. Louis at SSM St. Mary’s High-Risk Pregnancy Center as a Labor and Delivery nurse. Autumn McKnight ‘15 was recently nominated for the Publicity Club of Chicago’s (PCC) “30 Under 30” award, which honors young professionals with distinguished individual achievement in public relations, marketing, and communications. Autumn is currently the
alumnae news & events
Young Professionals board chair for the PCC. Jessica Pedroza ‘15 was featured in an article by the Loyola University Quinlan School of Business, “From ballet to BBA in supply chain management.” In her senior year, she combined her love of ballet with her studies by participating in an international business class research project on the Joffrey Ballet. She is now pursuing a master’s degree in project management at Georgetown University. Ellie Rowe ‘15 graduated from the University of Alabama with a major in chemical engineering and chemistry. After graduation, she started her fulltime job at Eastman Chemical Company in Kingsport, TN as a chemical engineer working in the Scale-Up and Process Innovation department. At UA, Ellie started doing research in the chemistry department her freshman year and continued through her last semester. Because of this research, she was able to travel and present at various conferences, and was a second author on two publications. During her junior year, she was awarded a Goldwater Scholarship, which is a highly competitive scholarship given in the natural sciences, engineering and mathematics, awarded to only 211 individuals in the country! Starting her freshman year, she also was a part of the Cooperative Education program where she worked at a small renewable energy company for two semesters, and later on, she completed an internship with a different company working with pharmaceuticals. In her sophomore year, she was able to study abroad during her winter break in Iceland where she learned about their culture and the different types of renewable energy there. At UA, she also was very involved in the Society of Women Engineers (SWE), and attended national conferences in Texas and Minnesota to network with other women in engineering!
Ellie Rowe ‘15, is pictured center with classmates Mayra Serna ‘15, left and Rachel Zuppa ‘15 at the Society of Women Engineers Conference in Minnesota on October 19, 2018.
plied for a position on the unit, which she hopes to be offered upon passing her board. She plans to work for one to two years then start a doctorate program to become a primary care pediatric nurse practitioner. Theresa Ward ‘15 was awarded the Saint Xavier University Mother Paulita Morris, R.S.M. Student Mission Award on March 27. This award recognizes a student whose exemplary service and leadership have embodied the university’s core values and its Catholic/ Mercy mission. Theresa currently is the director of music at Queen of Martyrs parish.
Kelly Small ‘15 and her father kicked off the second season for their Italian ice food truck, Fruitastic-O, over Memorial Day Weekend. Located in Mount Greenwood Park, their food truck serves Italian Ice and Cream Ice. Marlena Sweiss ‘15 graduated #1 in her class from Loyola University Chicago’s (LUC) Marcella Neihoff School of Nursing, summa cum laude. She received the silver medallion and was on the dean’s list throughout her time in college. At Loyola, Marlena was a member of the Alpha Sigma Nu Jesuit Honor Society, Sigma Theta Tau International Nursing Honor Society, Palestinian Children’s Reflief Fund, Students Organize for Syria, LUC Student Advocates for Medicine in Politics, and participated in the Emerging Leaders program and served as an Agape Ministry small group leader. She worked in Loyola’s Pediatric ICU for her clinical roll transition “internship” under a preceptor, and has ap-
Rachel Zuppa ‘15 graduated from the University of Dayton (UD) with a degree in chemical engineering. In addition, she received the Edmund J. Rolinski Memorial Award of Excellence, which is awarded to an outstanding senior in leadership and service. At UD, she served as the president of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE) and the treasurer of the Society of Women Engineers, was an engineering student ambassador, worked for the School of Engineering for outreach and service events, did a co-op for eight months at Cargill’s Corn Milling Plant in Dayton and interned at Cargill’s Salt Plant in Breaux Bridge, LA in the summer of 2018. She began working full-time for Cargill at their Bioindustrial Plant in Chicago upon graduation.
2016 Kara Bischoff ‘16 was a Student Nurse Intern on Northwestern Memorial Hospital’s Postpartum Unit for the summer of 2019. Kara is currently attending Illinois Wesleyan University.
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alumnae news & events Lauren Turnbull ‘16 worked in Gasoline Alley at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway this past spring as part of IndyCar’s technical inspection team. She was one of three Indiana University motorsports engineering students to land an internship with the NTT IndyCar Series, which was located in Indianapolis in May. She spent the rest of the summer traveling for the internship.
2018 Kali Foyle ‘18, a journalism major at Loyola University Chicago, wrote her first article for the Loyola Phoenix in January. Charley Niego ‘18, a freshman volleyball player at University of Notre Dame, returned to Mother McAuley on April 6 for an exhibition game versus Illinois State University.
2019 Michaela Dillon ‘19 and her mother were interviewed for a story in the Daily Southtown which featured parents and their children who were born the year of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Maggie Veugeler ‘19 (second from left) and her team came in fourth place at the U.S. Rowing Youth National Championships in early June.
Photo credit: Indiana University
2017 Melissa Carroll ‘17 was selected as the student graduation speaker for the Moraine Valley Community College commencement ceremony in May 2019. This fall, Melissa is continuing her education in the electrical engineering program at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and spent summer 2018 as a technical assistant in the Dynamic Compression Sector at Argonne National Lab.
Photo credit: Beverly Review
Jasmine Jones ‘17 presented at the Kentucky Gender Women’s Studies Conference in September 2018 in Lexington, Kentucky!
SEND US YOUR UPDATES Visit www.mothermcauley.org/alumnaeupdates to share your news! All news submitted after July 1, 2019 will be included in the next issue of Inscape.
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alumnae news & events Out and About with the Sisters of Mercy Sr. Corinne Raven, RSM - fondly known as Corky - and Sr. Ellen Marie Ryan, RSM were seen cheering on the Macs in the South Side Irish Parade on March 17, 2019!
DO YOU WORK WITH A FELLOW McAULEY ALUMNA? Sister Marion Johnson, RSM served at Saint Xavier University (SXU) as a professor in the biology department for 35 years. Twenty years ago, SXU named their lake in her honor, and Sister Marion celebrated this milestone in April! She is a former member of McAuley’s Board of Trustees.
Take a picture at work and share on social media using
#MacsatWork and/or email to alumnae@mothermcauley.org! We’d love to send you a shout-out and celebrate all of our Mac change-makers who are hard at work and spreading the Mighty Mac spirit!
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alumnae news & events 2018 t Lindsay Frasor ‘99 married Josh Bodda on June 15, 2018.
t Becki Pikula ‘07 married her high school sweetheart Kyle Dunleavy, Brother Rice class of 2006, on September 1, 2018 in Lake Geneva, WI. The bridal party included Terese Pikula ‘05 and Stephanie Seweryn ‘07.
marriages 2016 t Megan Pawlak ‘03 married David Faulkner on November 12, 2016 at Pilgrim Faith United Church of Christ in Oak Lawn. In the wedding was the bride’s sister, Brigett Pawlak Bevan ‘95, and attendees included Jacqui Podzius Cook ‘87 and Becky Finn ‘99.
t Christina Miller ‘12 married Jason Peck on June 30, 2018. t Ann Hurley ‘09 married Cole Eisses on September 22, 2018. The bridal party included alumnae Grace Flaherty ‘09, Jen Moriarty ‘09, Margaret Hurley ‘13, Niki Annes ‘09, Kylie Kelly ‘09 and Emily McDonough White ‘08. Their photographer, Laurie Schuetter Boddy ‘04, also is an alumna!
2017 Rebecca Adams married James Sullivan in 2017. t Lambrini Karnavas ‘97 married Konstantinos Papadoulakis on July 15, 2017 in a beautiful ceremony at the iconic Chicago Cultural Center.
t Vicki Stepanek ‘10 married Jeff Larsen on August 4, 2018. In her bridal party were alumnae Holly RuedlingerCostantini ‘09, Katie Beyer ‘09, Bridget Patton ‘09, Kathryn Swenson ‘10, Kelsey Philippi ‘10 and Becca Stepanek ‘17.
Kaitlin Roberts ‘06 married Kevin Deering on September 29, 2018. Her bridal party included Colleen RobertsErickson ‘02, Mary Roberts ‘11, Eileen Moxley ‘06 and Kellie Kasput ‘11, as well as the mother of the groom, Elizabeth Mallory Deering ‘73.
Contact the alumnae office at 773-881-6565 or alumnae@mothermcauley.org to get a McAuley shield to proudly display in a photo with the Mighty Mac alumnae at your wedding!
Tag Mother McAuley in your baby and wedding photos on social media! Use #MacFamily 44
alumnae news & events t Alyse Biszewski ‘06 married Mike Rourke on November 10, 2018. Mighty Mac bridesmaids included Bryanna Biszewski ‘12, Molly Rourke ‘08, Carolyn Nevin ‘06, Jenny Riemersma Christophersen ‘06, Anne Dixon Brown ‘06 and Meg O’Donnell ‘06.
births & adoptions Laura Ortega ‘99 has three children: Lucia, born in 2004, Liliana born in 2006 and Ivan born in 2009.
t Josh and Lindsay Frasor Bodda ‘99 welcomed son Isiah Lee on May 25, 2018.
2017 Sarah Rakauskas ‘06 married Christopher Kolkmeyer on November 24, 2018. t Lauren Frost ‘08 married her high school sweetheart, Sam Stull, on December 8, 2018 after dating for 14 years!
Molly Naliwajko Sexton ‘01 and husband Joe welcomed twins Noreen “Reenie” Della and Nickolaus Gerald on April 23, 2017. Joshua and Emily Mitsdarffer Meyer ‘01 and big sisters Mercy-Julia and Romona welcomed Josefina Alice on December 12, 2017.
2018 Kerry Cunningham ‘98, her husband, Randy, and big brother Travis welcomed future Mighty Mac Parker Jean on January 8, 2018. t William and Jessica Lehocky Beasland ‘06 welcomed Logan Maverick on January 27, 2018.
Caleb Paul Cottone was welcomed by parents Kyle and Kristine Dalgaard ‘99, and siblings Emily (8yo) and Connor (5yo) on July 25, 2018. t Juan M. Medrano, Jr. was welcomed by parents Kristen Morin Medrano ‘04 and Juan M. Medrano, Sr. and older sister Annalisia (3yo) on September 14, 2018.
2019 t Keith and Janet Young Harms ‘65 celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on June 21, 2019. They celebrated with their three children, Russ (Kelly) Harms, Brian (Carrie) Harms, Peggy (Denny) Durland) and their seven wonderful grandchildren: Michelle Harms, Kendall Harms, Sammie Harms, Becca Harms, Joey Harms, Susie Durland and Will Durland.
Kannan and Katie O’Keeffe Vinaitheerthan ‘06 welcomed daughter Meena Marie on June 16, 2018. Meena is also the granddaughter of faculty member Robin O’Keeffe.
Joe and Katie Farrell Duhig ‘01 welcomed Cameron on February 7, 2018. Cam joins older brother Tommy and older sister Molly. Joseph and Michelle Perez Cavanaugh ‘99 welcomed son Jackson Joseph on March 3, 2018.
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alumnae news & events Faculty member Amanda Sullivan, her husband Devin and big brother Charlie welcomed Molly Kathleen on September 14, 2018.
t Noreen Miller Tunney ‘04 and husband Brian welcomed Róisín Belle on December 8, 2018.
t Lambrini Karnavas ‘97 and husband Konstantinos Papadoulakis welcomed Ismini Danae on September 23, 2018.
t Martha Ramirez Jacobson ‘99, husband Brian, and son Marcus welcomed Victor Dean on October 31, 2018.
2019 Jim and Laura LeCompte Scanlon ‘02 and grandma and McAuley faculty member Teresa O’Connell LeCompte ‘69 welcomed Molly in February 2019. Ed and Michelle Madden Dahman ‘07 welcomed Jordan on March 6, 2019. Older sibling Damian and grandma, Sue Yore Shukstor ‘77, are thrilled at the new addition.
Brenda Fitzgerald Doyle ‘03 and husband Vivian welcomed son Ollie Martin on December 11, 2018. He was christened at Trinity Catholic Church on July 27, 2019 in Bunclody Co. Wexford, Ireland. t Jenna and Jennifer Germino Rooney ‘01 welcomed Alice Jean on December 11, 2018.
Tommy and Hilary Sterk Tully ‘05 welcomed Blake Everly on May 1, 2019. Bob and Sarah Kielbasa Pine ‘06 welcomed Lyla Rose-Marie on May 10, 2019. t Staff member Alison Duggirala, dad Vinay, and big sister Evie welcomed baby boy Cameron Douglas on May 18, 2019.
t Jamal and Rhonda Young Williams ‘01 welcomed Ivy Natasha on November 28, 2018.
t Greg and Gretchen Rahn Vickers ‘01 welcome Carlo James on December 17, 2018.
Tag Mother McAuley in your baby and wedding photos on social media! Use #MacFamily
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alumnae news & events t Heather Finn Teliga ‘01, dad Justin, and big brother Liam Richard welcomed Declan Daniel on May 21, 2019.
t Kathleen Strand ‘97, husband Bobby Kellman and big sister Harper Grace welcomed baby girl Eleanor Rose on June 6, 2019.
t Anna Bogdanowicz Suwada ‘05, husband Jerry and big sister Liliana welcomed Sofia Krystyna on July 22, 2019.
t Staff member Cassie Mayer and husband Ryan welcomed twin boys Jack and Nick on July 23, 2019.
Katie Riga Monroe ‘02 and husband Brett welcomed baby boy Jack William on July 28, 2019. Great-aunt Jan Brown, science faculty member, and family are on cloud nine. t Kathleen Mixan ‘03, husband Eric Vari, and big brother Charlie welcomed George William Vari on June 24, 2019.
Sara Schiller ‘15 and Pat Adcock welcomed baby Mia Rose Adcock on July 31, 2019.
t Meg Harrigan Lynch ‘07, husband Jordan and big sister Olivia welcomed Cormac “Mac” Ryan on August 6, 2019.
t Nicholas and Theresa Lavelle Brainerd ‘06 welcomed baby girl Christine on September 6, 2019.
t Eileen Boyce O’Reilly ‘03, dad Ryan, and big brother Jack welcomed baby girl Molly Catherine on September 6, 2019.
t Jan Wilson, Science faculty member, welcomed new granddaughter Raina Mae Wilson on August 5, 2019.
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alumnae news & events
deaths Mary Jane Burns Miller ‘79, June 1, 2009 Sister of Joellen Burns Muntz ‘77 Kathleen Quinn Sebek ‘79, May 3, 2013 Sister of Maureen Quinn Costigan ‘80 Diane Farrell Courtright ‘69, August 2013 Donna Venezia ‘79, September 29, 2014 Caryl Cavanagh Wall ‘69, May 3, 2015 Mother-in-law of Mandy McGlennon Wall ‘97, Aunt of Cathy Wall Notariano ‘84, Holly Wall Freund ‘88, and the late Susan Wall ‘93 Mary Fran Moore ‘69, July 9, 2015 Mother of Celia Moore Tagliareni ‘00 Sister of Patricia Moore Hahn ‘64 and Marie Moore ‘71, Sister-in-law of Fran Lombard Moore ‘68, Aunt of Ann Hahn ‘05 Susan Horne Brett ‘79, January 2016 Sister of Joanie Horne Leary ‘71 Carol Zega Januszki ‘69, February 9, 2016 Diane Phelan Labriola ‘79, April 14, 2016 Sister of Susan Phelan Bott ‘77 John Biedron, June 30, 2016 Father of Donna Biedron Ryan ‘70 and Doreen Biedron Hofbauer ‘73 Jane Thacker ‘74, September 14, 2016 Patty Waldron Durnell ‘79, October 13, 2016 Sister of the late Ellen Waldron ‘72, Susan Waldron Sheedy ‘75, Eileen Waldron Cunningham ‘77, Therese Waldron Campbell ‘78, Karen Waldron Marks ‘82, and Joanne Waldron Truesdale ‘83. Aunt of Katherine Cunningham ‘07, Colleen Cunningham ‘08 and Alex Truesdale ‘19 Janet Newell Hilliard, SXA ‘43, March 30, 2017 Maggie McGuire Quinn ‘88, May 11, 2017 Sister-in-law of Tracy Quinn ‘98, Erin Quinn ‘00, Elizabeth Quinn ‘02 and Meghan Quinn Dimopoulos ‘03
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MARCH 2018 Kathryn “Kada” Stevens Jedlicka ‘69, March 2018
APRIL 2018 Kathy McShane Unger ‘69, April 4, 2018 Sister of Mary McShane Brass ‘68
JULY 2018 Irene Doyle, July 2018 Grandmother of Colleen Toloza Houston ‘90, Meaghan Doyle ‘01, Kelly Malone ‘07 and Maggie Malone ‘10 Doris McArdle, July 2018 Mother of Sharon McArdle Duffy ‘62 and Margaret McArdle Smith ‘69 Sally Andrasco ‘76, July 25, 2018 Sister of Nancy Andrasco ‘74, Mary Lu Andrasco Wasniewski ‘78, Joyce Andrasco Mendez ‘79, Karen Andrasco Lang ‘80 and Janine Andrasco ‘90 Sharon Stach ‘73, July 30, 2018 Sister of Cynthia Stach Pearman ‘70 Patricia Miller, July 31, 2018 Sister-in-law of McAuley dean, Jeanne Miller, Aunt of Elizabeth Klyczek ‘08 and Emily Klyczek ‘08
Carol Dalton Russell ‘79, Sister-in-law of Georgean Fitzgerald Wegrzyn ‘73 Lawrence P. Lannan, August 18, 2018 Husband of the late Elizabeth Mulroy Lannan SXA ‘50, Father of Kathleen Lannan Arnold ‘71 and Lisa Lannan Kelley ‘75 Michael J. Coffey, August 20, 2018 Husband of the late Mary Jo Kean Coffey ‘63, Father of Jane Coffey Hehr ‘89 and Josie Coffey Singler ‘95 Grandfather of Kathryn Coffey ‘16, Brother-in-law of the late Ann Kean Gardiner ‘89, Uncle of Leah Kean Ostry ‘87, Cara Kean Jilek ‘89 and Emma Kean ‘92 Carol Grab Ernst ‘62, August 20, 2018 Mary Pat Nugent Pryor ‘65, August 22, 2018, Sister of Mary Alyce Nugent Bender ‘71, the late Mary Christine Nugent Murray ‘73, and Mary Ann Nugent Schultheis ‘77 William McCloskey, August 27, 2018 Father of Janet McCloskey Loverde ‘80 and Susan McCloskey Barnett ‘89, Grandfather of Kristin McCloskey ‘10 Rosemary Hatzell, August 29, 2018 Mother of Marilyn Hatzell Nessner ‘64 and Roseanne “Mickey” Hatzell Murphy ‘65
SEPTEMBER 2018
AUGUST 2018
Mary Catherine Kelley, September 2018 Grandmother of Caroline Kelley ‘18
Shelonda Alise Moore Janaceck ‘90, August 2018
Josefina Kizior, September 2018 Mother of Christine Kizior ‘93
Beth Scanlan, August 2018 Mother of Maggie Scanlan ‘18 and Grace Scanlan ‘21
Bryan O’Malley, September 3, 2018 Husband of Norah Condon O’Malley ‘87, Father of Shannon O’Malley ‘17, Mary O’Malley ‘19, and Margaret O’Malley ‘20, Uncle of Margaret Carey Sweeney ‘02 and Kerry Dybas ‘11, Brother-in-law of Terri Condon Panfil ‘69, Kathy Condon Carey ‘72, and Sharon Condon Dybas ‘76
Susan Trojanski Kilheeney ‘69, September 1, 2017
Julia Dargan, August 11, 2018 Mother of Colleen Dargan Miller ‘77, the late Margaret Dargan ‘80, and Elizabeth Dargan Gardner ‘93, Grandmother of Kathryn Miller ‘99, Erin Miller ‘02, Noreen Miller Tunney ‘04 and Anna Dargan ‘20
Denise Murphy Klovens ‘79, October 8, 2017
Patricia Dalton Dart ‘82, August 16, 2018 Sister of Anne Marie Dalton Knibbs ‘76 and
Beatrice Sokol, September 4, 2018 Mother of Sharon Sokol Kochanek ‘67 and Janet Sokol Lombard ‘73, Grandmother
alumnae news & events to Jennifer Lombard Kibbon ‘99 and Jacqueline Lombard Anderson ‘01
of Courtenay Rourke Ainsworth ‘92, Betsy Rourke Chappelle ‘95, and Molly Rourke ‘08
Sharon Canetlo, September 14, 2018 Mother-in-law of Janet Garetto ‘90
Jean “Nancy” Miller, October 28, 2018 Mother of former McAuley nurse Marcie Miller Keller ‘72, Nancy Miller Bobel ‘74 and Barbara Miller Broderick ‘78, Aunt of McAuley dean Jeanne Miller
Patrick Flynn, September 17, 2018 Father of Mary Ann Flynn Stokas ‘01 and Katie Flynn Bolte ‘04, Brother of Judy Flynn Neary ‘59, Uncle of Judy Neary Crudele ‘91 Mary Jeanne Byrnes, September 30, 2018 Mother of Georgina Byrnes Griffin ‘76 and Martha Byrnes Martinez ‘81, Mother-inlaw of the late Rita O’Donnell Byrnes ‘73, Grandmother of Megan Byrnes Jadron ‘96, Emily Byrnes Campbell ‘98, Brooke Pierson Byrnes ‘99, Lauren Byrnes ‘00, Courtney Griffin ‘08 and the late Caroline Griffin ‘12 Erica Heilmann, September 30, 2018 Mother of Natalie Heilmann ‘20, Sister-inlaw of Cathy Heilmann Lachky ‘72, Diane Heilmann Adams ‘77, and Sue Heilmann Gleason ‘88
OCTOBER 2018 Diane Boekeloo, October 2018 Aunt of Amanda Boekeloo ‘07, Jacklyn Boekeloo Cummings ‘09 and Erica Boekeloo ‘12 Irene Burke, October 2018 Mother of late Renee Burke Barnas ‘78, and Jeanne Burke Gallagher ‘80, Grandmother of Mary Kate Gallagher ‘11 and Kelly Gallagher ‘18 Robert Canavan, October 2018 Father of Cathy Canavan Strybel ‘85 and Chris Canavan Duffy ‘86, Father-in-law of Laura Godwin Canavan ‘91, Grandfather of Mary Kate Duffy ‘14, Annie Duffy ‘16, and Allie Duffy ‘20 Thomas Martin Duhig, Jr., October 2, 2018, Brother of Maureen Duhig Horan ‘85, Mary Duhig Ward ‘91 and Jane Duhig Saracini ‘93, Nephew of Ann Duhig Liston ‘71 and Marie Custer Duhig ‘72, Cousin of Erin Liston ‘99, Colleen Liston Cotton ‘01 and Jennifer Liston ‘03 Bernice Yates, October 14, 2018 Mother of Catherine Yates Rourke ‘70, Sister-in-law of Donatta Yates, Mercy associate Dolores “Dee” Rourke, October 22, 2018 Mother-in-law of Cathy Yates Rourke ‘70, Missy Quinn Rourke ‘71, McAuley Director of Development Peggy Evans Rourke ‘76 and Sharon Conrad Rourke ‘77, Grandmother
Kathleen Gutrich Gilliam ‘70, October 30, 2018, Sister of Patricia Gutrich Stitcher ‘71, Margaret Gutrich Mizera ‘73, and Barbara Gutrich Flynn ‘75, Cousin of Mary Kay Gutrich Brown ‘62 and Janet Gutrich ‘70, Aunt of Kathryn Mizera ‘04, Peggy Flynn ‘06, and Elizabeth Mizera ‘07 Dr. Thomas John O’Grady, October 31, 2018 Son of Mary Clare Brosnan O’Grady ‘76, Nephew of Colleen Sullivan Brosnan ‘72, Barbara Cahill Brosnan ‘75 and Kathleen Brosnan ‘78
NOVEMBER 2018 John Stanard, November 2018 Husband of Nancy Pierce ‘73 Bonnie Webster, November 2018 Former Mother McAuley math department chairperson Peggy Greenfield, November 3, 2018 Mother-in-law of Margaret Foster Greenfield ‘80 and Laura Janicki Greenfield ‘83, Grandmother of Amy Lippert Labrador ‘90, Bridget Greenfield ‘06 and Anne Greenfield ‘11 Pat Somers Cronin ‘44, November 4, 2018 Mother of Mary Ann Cronin ‘74 and Ellyn Rose Cronin ‘78, Sister of the late Nancy Somers Conway ‘49, Grandmother of Erin Cronin Covotsos ‘96, Aunt of Caron Cronin Green ’71, Nancy Cronin Johnson ’72, Susan Cronin Real ’77 and Amy Cronin Marciniak ‘82 Mary Ann Hogan ‘73, November 4, 2018 Daughter of the late Gertrude Trainor Hogan SXA ‘39, Niece of the late Mary Louise Trainor ’45, Sister-in-law of Cathi Carlin Hogan ‘73 Reverend James Roache, November 19, 2018, Uncle of McAuley athletic director Laurie Roache Jakubczak ‘78 and Kathy Roache Kleist ‘80, Great-uncle of Lauren Kleist ‘09, Jacqueline Kleist ‘10 and Kristen Kleist ‘13 James Joseph Earley Jr., November 24, 2018 Father of Eileen Earley Ziesemer ‘01, Annie Earley ‘04 and Kaitlin Earley ‘05, Brother of
the late Nancy Earley McClory ‘80, Uncle of Michele McClory ‘12
DECEMBER 2018 Deanne Dempsey O’Toole, SXA ‘58, December 2018, Sister of Kathy Dempsey Moyer ‘63 Penny Witt Stamps ‘62, December 13, 2018 Judith Stanczak Ressinger ‘63, December 14, 2018, Aunt of Felicia Stanczak ‘87 Eduardo Marmolejo, December 17, 2018 Father of Rebecca Marmolejo ‘21 Robert Earley, December 20, 2018 Husband of Linda Lavery Earley ‘77, Brother-in-law of the late Laura Lavery ‘80 Kerrie Kamin ‘84, December 29, 2018 Gerry McCarthy O’Brien, SXA ‘37, December 31, 2018, at the age of 99, Sister of the late Lenore McCarthy Cox SXA ‘34 and Mary McCarthy Marshall SXA ‘45, Aunt of the late Lani Cox Connors ‘58
JANUARY 2019 Mary Burke, January 2019 Mother of Mary Burke Hannigan ‘73, Nancy Burke Woods ‘80 and the Honorable Kathleen Burke ‘82 Patricia McGreal, January 4, 2019 Long-time librarian at Mother McAuley mother of Jennifer Joy Davies McGreal ‘03 Curt Marceille, January 8, 2019 Father of Elizabeth Marceille ‘22, Cousin of Shannon Dunne Harvey ‘00 and Colleen Dunne ‘06 Raymond Wiorek, January 10, 2019 Brother of Sr. Rose Wiorek, RSM, past principal of Mother McAuley Patti Knoebel Philipp ‘86, January 12, 2019 Sister of the late Mary Knoebel ‘78 Patricia Breakey, January 16, 2019 Mother of Maureen Breakey O’Donnell ‘72, Janet Breakey Nunez ‘83, and Bridget Breakey Coleman ‘88, Grandmother of Caroline O’Donnell ‘02, Kelly O’Donnell ‘06 and Erin Breakey ‘18 Albert F. Banis, January 17, 2019 Father of Catherine Banis Sheridan ‘84 and Barbara Banis Bertucci ‘89
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alumnae news & events Dr. Loren Feldner, January 17, 2019 Brother of Janeen Feldner Pikula ‘74, Uncle of Terese Pikula ‘05 and Becki Pikula ‘07 Patricia “Trish” Carter, January 18, 2019 Mother of Kathleen Carter Geary ‘05, Mother-in-law of Colleen Morrin Carter ‘99, Sister-in-law of the late Sharon Carter Winquist-Horonzy ‘69 and Maureen Carter ‘73 Barbara Larkin Grillo ‘83, January 19, 2019 Sister of Karen Larkin Horne ‘80 and Sharon Larkin O’Mearns ‘88 Jack Capron, January 27, 2019 Father-in-law of Mary Anne Hennessey Capron ‘75, Grandfather of Emily Capron Gleason ‘00, Nora Capron Gifford ‘02, Anne Capron Chedister ‘06, and Jacqueline Capron Bushbach ‘10 Dorothy O. Schaffer, January 31, 2019 Mother of Kathleen Schaffer Flisk ‘67, Jean Schaffer ‘78 and Margaret Mary Schaffer ‘80, Grandmother of Dorothy Flisk ‘95
FEBRUARY 2019 JoAnn Lavery, February 6, 2019 Mother of Linda Lavery Earley ‘77 and the late Laura Lavery ‘80 Joan Duffy, February 12, 2019 Mother of Kathleen Duffy ‘76, Susan Duffy Olofsson ‘77, Carolyn Duffy Fetzer ‘79, Jean Duffy Pomorski ‘81, and Jennie Duffy Kelly ‘84, Mother-in-law of the late Barb O’Neil Duffy ‘79, Grandmother of Jill Gedratis ‘00, Caitlyn Olofsson Ward ‘04, Mollie Rowan ‘08, Tess Pomorski ‘14 and Eva Kelly ‘19 Ann Rosso, February 14, 2019 Mother of Aoife Rosso ‘11 and Mairead Rosso ‘20
Kay Dillon, March 2019, Mother of Ann Dillon Corvino ‘75 Robert Dolehide, March 2019, Father of Maureen Dolehide Bland ‘74, Michelle Dolehide Serino ‘75, Father-in-law of Beth Flaherty Dolehide ‘73 and Mary O’Donohue Dolehide ‘78 Sandra Kane Cerveny ‘90, March 3, 2019, Sister of Maureen Kane ‘98 Katie Moriarty, March 5, 2019, Mother of Mary Moriarty Wisniowicz ‘83, Mother-in-law of Kathleen Carroll Moriarty ‘77, Kathleen Healy Moriarty ‘83, Grandmother of Kathleen Moriarty ‘11 and Meaghan Moriarty ‘15 William Leo Sullivan, March 8, 2019, Father of the late Jane Sullivan ‘88, Megan Sullivan Rees ‘91 and Mara Sullivan Arakelian ‘96 William Gainer, March 16, 2019, Father of Bridget Gainer ‘86, Nora Gainer ‘88, Maureen Gainer Reilly ‘93, Mary Gainer ‘96, Sheila Gainer Flanagan ‘99 Maureen McCarthy, March 23, 2019 Mother of Mary McCarthy Danaher ‘85, Molly McCarthy Cranley ‘90, and Maureen “Beanie” McCarthy McClelland ‘98, Motherin-law of Sherry Lambert McCarthy ‘86, Grandmother of Megan McCarthy ‘04, Alyssa McCarthy ‘12, Maggie Cranley ‘17, Maureen “MoMo” Cranley ‘19 and Catherine “Zuzu” Cranley ‘21 Letitia Piet Hachem ‘59, March 27, 2019 Sister of Antoinette Piet Francis ‘64
Michael Moriarty, April 28, 2019 Brother of Lisa Moriarty ‘09 Francis Supple, April 28, 2019 Father of Eileen Supple Byom ‘73 and Therese Supple Kincade ‘74, Father-in-law of Tina O’Toole Supple ‘71 and Kathleen Lee Supple ‘78
MAY 2019 Liliana Roche, May 2019 Mother of Linda Roche O’Reilly ‘69, Barbara Roche Dooley ‘70, Mary Ann Roche Yancey ‘74, Sally Roche Wasik ‘76, Judy Roche O’Neill ‘77, Patricia Roche Hovey’79, Motherin-law of Mari Dismeier Roche ‘76 and Linda Zartler Roche ‘86, Grandmother of Gina O’Reilly Fitzpatrick ‘96, Kathryn O’Reilly ‘99, Elizabeth O’Reilly ‘03 and Amanda Hovey Hafeli ‘09, Lisa Roche ‘11 and Mia Roche ‘21 Jesus Dominguez, May 9, 2019 Father of Claudia Dominguez Alvarado ‘95 and Marivell Dominguez Sanchez ‘97, Grandfather of Samantha Alvarado ‘20 Michael John Hurless, May 11, 2019 ather-in-law of Megan Curran Hurless ‘89, Grandfather of Fiona Hurless ‘20 James John O’Reilly, May 20, 2019 Brother of Karen O’Reilly Solan ‘62, Janet O’Reilly Murray ‘63 and Joanell O’Reilly Zawaski ‘67, Uncle of Christine Murray ‘89, Stacy Zawaski Sheerin ‘89, Corinne Murray Doran ‘91, Katie Zawaski Elwood ‘91, and Elizabeth Zawaski ‘93 Shirley Schmeltzer, May 20, 2019 Mother of Jean Schmeltzer Schmid ‘80
APRIL 2019
Raymond B. Lavery, May 22, 2019 Father of Linda Lavery Early ‘77 and the late Laura Lavery ‘80
Dr. Howard E. “Bud” Sweeney, MD, February 15, 2019, Father of Coleen Sweeney ‘81 and Christine Sweeney Johnson ‘81, Father-inlaw of Karen Furlong Sweeney ‘83, Brotherin-law of Pat Berry Jones ‘61, Uncle of Kate Berry ‘95, Brigid Berry Jacobsen ‘97 and Maggie Berry Maloney ‘01
Eleanore Fishbeck, April 2019 Grandmother of Melissa Fishbeck Brongel ‘03
Janet Mueller Liljehadl ‘65, May 22, 2019 Cousin of Mary Jeanne Lawrence Tonkel ‘65 and Patricia Lawrence ‘73
Carolyn Gavin Cardenas ‘88, April 2, 2019 Sister of Molly Gavin Lyons ‘95, Sister-in-law of Debra Krapec Gavin ‘88
James Schaffer, February 16, 2019 Brother of Kathleen Schaffer Flisk ‘67, Jean Schaffer ‘78 and Margaret Mary Schaffer ‘80, Uncle of Dorothy Flisk ‘95
Coleen McGrath ‘73, April 14, 2019 Sister of Maureen McGrath Sand ‘68, the late Mary Kay McGrath Rotsch ‘75, Maggie McGrath McCue ‘79, Aunt of Annie McGrath ‘04
Margaret M. Edwards, May 23, 2019 Mother of former McAuley Board Chair and McAuley Hall inductee Anne Edwards Cotter ‘73, Maureen Cotter Murray ‘74, Joan Edwards Ebersole ‘76 and Elaine Edwards Kindt ‘80
Kathleen Pitt Weinberg ‘82, February 22, 2019, Sister of Michele Pitt Jones ‘77 and the late Jacqueline Pitt Allen ‘79 Frank Gory, February 25, 2019, Brother of Shawn Gory-Good ‘86
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MARCH 2019
Ann Quealy, April 18, 2019 Mother of Patricia Quealy Klaus ‘76, Maureen Quealy O’Keefe ‘79, Sheila Quealy Doerr ‘81, and Aileen Quealy Bacon ‘83, Mother-in-law of Kerry Trudelle Quealy ‘89
Robert M. Walsh, May 23, 2019 Father of Betty Walsh Murray ‘76 and Carolyn Walsh ‘86 Katherine White Radler ‘87, May 29, 2019 Sister of Peg White ‘87, Sister-in-law of Michelle Dinneen White ‘86
alumnae news & events JUNE 2019 John “Jack” M. Mallon, III, June 1, 2019 Husband of Michelle Thompson Mallon ‘87, Brother-in-law of Maureen Thompson Seerup ‘89 George E. Lombard, June 4, 2019 former recipient of the Catherine McAuley Leadership Award, Father of Therese Lombard Hargraves ‘73, Kathryn Lombard Byars ‘79, Karen Lombard ‘83, and Sheila Lombard Drda ‘87, Father-in-law to Janet Sokol Lombard ‘ 73, Brother to Colette Lombard Hoover ‘59, Genevieve Lombard Fitzgerald ‘62, and Fran Lombard Moore ‘68, Grandfather of Jennifer Lombard Kibbon ‘99 Robert Nellis, June 8, 2019 Brother of Mariceleste Nellis Ryan ‘76, Norene Nellis Drogosz ‘78 and Moira Nellis Quiroga ‘91 Molly Fetzer, June 11, 2019 Stepdaughter of Carolyn Duffy Fetzer ‘79, Daughter of the late Deborah Rubey Fetzer ‘71, Stepsister of Mollie Rowan ‘08, Granddaughter of the late Kathryn Whalen Rubey, SXA ‘46, Niece of Jane Blake Fetzer ’71, Maureen Rubey Frain ’72, Kathleen Duffy ’76, Susan Duffy Olofsson ‘77, Eileen Neylon Rubey ’78, the late Barb O’Neil Duffy ‘79, Jean Duffy Pomorski ‘81, and Jennie Kelly ‘84, Cousin of Jill Gedratis ‘00, Caitlyn Olofsson Ward ‘04, Tess Pomorski ‘14, Eva Kelly ‘19 and Megan Kane ‘11 Michael J. Guzy, III, June 11, 2019 Son of Jennifer Gammonley-Guzy ‘88 Mary Ann Rohan, June 15, 2019 Mother of Judy Rohan Hicks ‘65, Julie Rohan MacKenzie ‘66 and Mary Ellen Rohan ‘69, Mother-in-law to Mary Koss Rohan ‘72, Mary Pat Schumacher Rohan ‘76 and Kathy Tew Rohan ‘80, Grandmother to Meagan Rohan ‘96, Erin Rohan ‘03, Mary Kate Rohan ‘03 and Clare Rohan ‘12 Richard F. “Bud” Lynch, June 20, 2019 Father of the late Mary Clare Lynch ‘82, Grandfather of Marie Lynch ‘17 Winifred Yore, June 23, 2019 Mother of Erin Yore Baker ‘86, Grandmother of Shannon Baker ‘17
Thomas Regan, June 27, 2019 Brother of Jean Regan ‘64 and Elizabeth Regan Cairo ‘66
JULY 2019 Barbara Hofbauer, July 2019 Mother of Janet Hofbauer Doherty ‘89 and Susan Hofbauer Melcher ‘91 Robert Murphy, July 2019 Father of Molly Murphy Devaney ‘78 and Joanne Murphy Sundermeier ‘79, Grandfather of Mary Houtsma McDonald ‘82, Megan Houtsma ‘97, MaryEileen Rohan ‘01 and Anne Rohan O’Boyle ‘03 Jeanne Hobart Ostrowski ‘88, July 2019 Sister of Laura Johnson Smith ‘97, Mother of Jamilynn Ostrowski ‘19 Nancy Marie Leslie ‘84, July 2, 2019 Mary Rita Klees, July 4, 2019 Mother of Judy Klees Smith McDonald ‘63, Rita Klees ‘69, Louise Klees Haslett ‘69, Grace Klees ‘74 and the late Mary Klees Harris ‘78 Peggy Sweeney, July 13, 2019 Mother of Coleen Sweeney ‘81 and Christine Sweeney Johnson ‘81, Mother-inlaw of Karen Furlong Sweeney ‘83 sister of Pat Berry Jones ‘61, Aunt of Kate Berry ‘95, Brigid Berry Jacobsen ‘97 and Maggie Berry Maloney ‘01 Mary Catherine Morrissey, July 19, 2019 Mother of Marybeth Morrissey O’Donnell ‘78, Grandmother of Erin Morrissey ‘12 Marilyn Rowles July 20, 2019 Mother of Rose Riccordino, former Foreign Language faculty, Grandmother of Lisa Riccordino Raubolt ‘00
AUGUST 2019 Jack Griffin, August 2019 Father of Sherri Griffin Lunny ‘85, Jill Griffin Scarnavack ‘86, and Kelli Griffin ‘91, Father-in-law of Kara Moody Griffin ‘93 Roseann “Mickey” Johnson, August 2019 Mother of Dana Johnson Kleist ‘83 and Julie Johnson ‘86 James McDonough, August 2019 Father of Maureen McDonough Curley ‘81
Patricia Deiters, August 5, 2019 Grandmother of Jeanne Deiters Byrne ‘89, Mary Pat Deiters Carr ‘98, Bridget Deiters Ince ‘03, and Kate Nelson ‘05 Barbara Durand-Barski August 6, 2019, Mother of Caitlin Barski ‘07 Helen M. Sullivan, August 8, 2019 Mother of Kathleen Sullivan Mahoney ‘74, Nancy Sullivan ‘76 and Mary Beth Sullivan Deely ‘79 Marybeth Byrnes ‘75, August 12, 2019 Sister-in-law of Gail Cremin Byrnes ‘73 Heidi Knor Jedry ‘84, August 12, 2019 Sister of Holly Knor Weissenhofer ‘85 and Tammy Knor ‘87, Mother of Madison Jedry ‘15, Aunt of Devin Knor ‘11 Michael Bansley, August 18, 2019 Grandson of the late McAuley Hall inductee Barbara McCann Bansley ‘50, Brother of Amy Bansley Innis ‘00, Brother-in-law of Priscilla Lee Harwig ‘94, Nephew of Barbara Bansley Cronin ‘91, Helen Bansley ‘93, and Lucy Bansley Riles ‘98, Cousin of Susan Bansley Dixon ‘00, Mary Kate Bansley ‘06, Laura Bansley Fitzpatrick ‘08, Christine Maroney ‘14 and Sara Schiller ‘15 Michael E. Lux, August 23, 2019 Grandfather of Hannah Lux ‘17
SEPTEMBER 2019 Geraldine M. Scott, September 2019 Mother of Peggy Scott Corely ‘77, Grandmother of Kristyn Corely Carmody ‘01 and Kathleen Corely ‘05 John F. Harkins, September 2019 Husband of Mary Jo Arundel Harkins ‘63 Father of Mary Harkins Geraghty ’89, Eileen Harkins Perry ’91 and father-in-law of Jennifer Dunne Harkins ‘92, Grandfather of Grace Harkins ’18, Tierney Harkins ’20, Maeve Geraghty ’21 and Ellie Geraghty ‘22 Scott Biszewski, September 6, 2019 Husband of Yvonne Little Biszewski ‘81, Father of Alyse Biszewski Rourke ‘08 and Bryanna Biszewski ‘12, Brother-in-law of Mary Jo Little ‘72 and Mercedes Little ‘77 Elva Zavala ‘12, September 5, 2019 Sister of Patricia Zavala ‘96
All birth, wedding, and death submissions for this issue of Inscape were due by September 10, 2019. All submissions received after September 10 will be included in our next issue. To submit news of a death in our community, please visit mothermcauley.org/alumnae/in-memoriam or email alumnae@mothermcauley.org. If we have omitted any information, please contact the alumnae office at alumnae@mothermcauley.org
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advancement
Celebration 2019
Annual CELEBRATION draws generous crowd More than 300 guests filled Beverly Country Club for our annual Celebration gala, on February 1, 2019. Proceeds from the event benefit tuition assistance for Mother McAuley students. The evening celebrates individuals who exemplify the charism and values of the founder of the Sisters of Mercy, Catherine McAuley. Richard (Dick) and Maryjeanne Burke were honored as this year’s recipients of the Catherine McAuley Leadership Award. Sister Mary Catherine McDonagh, RSM and Susan Scully Schultz ’73 were honored as Life Trustees.
Catherine McAuley Leadership Award Deeply committed to their Catholic faith, Dick and Maryjeanne Burke have supported charitable, civic, and educational institutions throughout Chicago. Both have served on the Catholic Charities Board of Advisors, and the Burke Family Fund provides key financial support to Catholic Charities programs. As a trustee of the Daniel P. Haerther Charitable Trust, Dick has been instrumental in overseeing scholarship awards that have benefitted past and current McAuley students. Today, 12 McAuley students have the distinction of being Haerther Scholars. Dick and Maryjeanne were unable to attend Celebration. Their daughter, Mary, accepted their award and shared remarks on their behalf. “Young women at Mother McAuley are being well-prepared,” Mary read from her father’s remarks. “A Mother McAuley graduate is well-educated and well-trained intellectually and emotionally to draw lessons for life from our Catholic tradition. She is well able to have a strong, positive Catholic impact on her family, friends and society. As Mother Catherine McAuley said ‘. . . wherever a God fearing woman presides, peace and good order are generally to be found.’”
Kaitlyn Crook, a 2017 graduate of Mother McAuley and former Haerther Scholar, spoke to guests about her experience. “The Haerther scholarship provided me with many opportunities and proved to be a game changer during my college decision process and beyond,” shared Kaitlyn. “As a Haerther Scholar, I was able to attend events that highlighted different career fields and interests. It motivated me tremendously and helped me evolve as a student prepared for the next level. I am now in my second year at Tulane University in New Orleans, studying both public health and Spanish. I have excelled both academically and socially. I hold a research fellow position and have traveled to the Dominican Republic for a very selective study abroad program on Race, Migration, and Identity Politics.”
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advancement Life Trustees
The distinction of life trustee was established in 2014 to honor individuals whose contributions of time, talent or financial support has demonstrated their sincere commitment to Mother McAuley and who have integrated their faith and knowledge to become successful leaders and compassionate ministers of the Mercy charism in their personal and professional lives. Susan Scully Schultz ’73 served as a member of the Mother McAuley Board of Trustees from 1990 to 1995. She is the executive director, counsel to the chairman and chief executive officer of CME Group. She is the second of six children, with two sisters, Kimberly and Moira, who also are proud McAuley alumnae. Susan is involved in her parish, Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in Glenview, and serves on the Misericordia Women’s Golf Outing Committee. “We, graduates and students, are grateful to McAuley for many reasons. Among them, opportunities to achieve academically, identify and explore our talents, and develop our goals to the best of our individual abilities. Indeed, we are McAuley. Because of all of us, McAuley is dynamic and ageless. We illustrate the success of her mission in an ever-changing world and we are stewards of that legacy.” Sister Mary Catherine McDonagh, RSM had a passion for education and “teaching children to dream big.” A former educator, she taught in Catholic schools in both Wisconsin and Illinois. She is the former ministry director for the Sisters of Mercy and for the past 28 years has worked at Misericordia. Sister Mary served on the Board of Mother McAuley from 1984 to 1987. “When I had the privilege of joining the Board of Trustees of Mother McAuley 35 years ago, I learned how much the administration, teachers and board members were convinced of the good that our efforts would produce,” said Sister. “We have been privileged to be agents of change, encouraging young women to aspire to make a difference in their world. We work to develop leadership in the young women, and encourage them to care about the welfare of our society, the earth, and those in need.”
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advancement
If you want to lift up humanity, empower women. It is the most comprehensive, pervasive, high-leverage investment you can make in human beings. – M E L I N D A G AT E S
Carey’s Corner Dear friends, At McAuley, our students, faculty and staff focus on their wellbeing….you are an individual and you are cared for in mind, body and spirit. Wellness is an active process of becoming aware and making choices for a healthy and fulfilling life. This is a strength and a muscle we encourage our young women to exercise and experiment with each and every day. Practicing self-care and how to be caring and compassionate for others is not just a trend at Mother McAuley. It is celebrated and modeled so we build young women who employ this practice in their daily lives. Obviously, at McAuley this caring and friendship mentality has been prevalent since the school’s inception. Whether you decorated a friend’s locker, made a candy necklace for her birthday, boarded a fan bus dressed like a banana to cheer on your favorite athlete or met your friend at the circle drive to walk together with coffee in hand and a smile on your face -- support and care are a major focus of the culture and community of Mother McAuley. One of our distinguishing features is that we cultivate an environment where women support women. It has always been this way, through our teaching model and the way our faculty understand young women and know when to push and pull. Our exit survey from our seniors is filled with countless stories of faculty and staff who shared kindness and compassion making their classroom and our school a home away from home. However, in the last few years it has been more intentional. McAuley has recently begun hosting two mental health awareness weeks where students learn about and practice self-care. Anxiety busters, breathing, healthy eating and meditation are
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taught and discussed. The school is canvassed with supportive messages on lockers, drinking fountains and bathroom mirrors reminding these fascinating, passionate, ever-evolving young women they are not alone here and that others see them and care for them. As an experiential learning environment, McAuley’s goal is to expose and influence our young women to learn behaviors that will set them up for success once they leave our halls. We empower them to push through barriers, use their voices to end injustice and go where their passion leads them. But, we also want to empower them to take care of themselves. Women care for others and often forget themselves and their needs. This isn’t selfish...it’s necessary and important. In this Inscape, we celebrate McAuley women who have devoted themselves to developing and supporting programs and facilities that help us take care of ourselves and others. They inspire us and impact the wellness of so many, making our communities brighter and kinder. It is not surprising that there are so many McAuley alumnae in the community taking care of others. It’s not surprising because it is the hallmark of being a McAuley girl…..and a woman of Mercy. Thank you for your role in lifting up our young women. Doesn’t it feel good? Gratefully,
Carey Temple Harrington ‘86 Vice President for Institutional Advancement
advancement Donor Appreciation Breakfast April 12, 2019 We are so grateful for our donors, who directly impact our students’ lives!
Tom Zbierski and Meika Slotsema with their Big Shoulders Fund Scholars
Regional Reunions McAuley is on the move! President Mary Acker Klingenberger ‘75 and vice president of institutional advancement, Carey Temple Harrington ‘86, have been traveling around the country to host regional reunions for our out-of-town alumnae and having a blast catching up with our Mighty Macs across the nation!
San Diego, CA - California Dreaming, February 5, 2019
Naples, FL - The Sunshine State, April 4, 2019
Sr. Ellen Marie Ryan, RSM and Sarah Yehudah ‘22, recipient of Student speaker, Hannah Brennan ‘19 with donor Nancy Breen Johnson ‘62
the Sr. Ellen Marie Ryan Music Scholarship
New York City - The Big Apple! June 26, 2019
Rhea Wehrmeister with the recipients of the Len Wehrmeister Mathmatics Scholarship, Brigid Barkmeier ‘20, Molly Keller, 20, Christina Sweiss ‘19 and Erica Hollander ‘19
Milwaukee - September 26, 2019
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advancement
FutureReady The Campaign for Mother McAuley
It’s been more than two years since we began our Future Ready capital campaign. In short order we have made tremendous progress. We have been blessed with gifts of all sizes for each project phase that collectively is transforming our campus. Together we have raised nearly $5.5M toward our goal, including more than $500,000 in scholarship funds. THANK YOU to everyone who has made a gift. Because of your generosity, we have completed the early phases of our campaign without incurring any debt. The improvements have dramatically impacted the educational experience for our students, faculty and staff. We are on track with our goal to plan a Liberal Arts & Learning Hub, updated athletic and health and wellness facilities, and finishing our classroom renovations. At the same time, we always are evaluating and celebrating our progress to date. Completed Upgrades
Summer/Fall 2019
• Refreshed and brightened lounge
• Tuckpointing
• New Kitty Mac Cafe
• New Legacy Wall near main entrance
• 16 updated C-wing classrooms with new lighting, finishes, technology upgrades and modular furniture • New main entry with enhanced security • New administrative offices and conference rooms
• Updates to the Green Room, Little Theatre, Athletic Bathrooms, Community Room and Meeting Space • Resurfacing our back road
Our faculty are equally excited about the fresh spaces which enhance instruction and student engagement.
Our students enjoy the flexibility that the new classrooms and student lounge provide. The lounge provides a great atmosphere for studying or socializing. I like having a place to visit with friends, and to grab a snack. Makayla Garrett ‘21 I usually have to wait for my mom to pick me up after school, so the lounge is the best place for me to get a start on homework. Abbey Marshall ‘22 The booths in the lounge are the best and most popular spot! I love coming here to meet up with my softball teammates before practice. I also eat lunch here every day. Kayli Kenzinger ‘20
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There are smiles in the math wing! Hallways appear larger and more inviting. Benches outside of the classrooms are used for collaboration between classes and before school. Collaboration during class time is aided by the mobility of desks and chairs. And, the lighting -- what a difference! The ability to adjust and dim, and the overall brightness is amazing. The shades can be easily adjusted to reduce glare. The big screen and ability to switch from iPad to laptop affords students options for displays. Students are engaged with videos and worksheets that can be displayed and worked on simultaneously with the teacher. White board material can be left and added upon without constant erasing. For the visual learner, they watch the lesson unfold, take pictures of the board and copy into their notes at home. Marilyn Rush, Math faculty I absolutely love my new classroom! Students seem happier when they come in, and the environment is light, airy and very conducive to large and small group discussions. Students easily move their desks around, the lighting is great and overall it is a glorious teaching environment. Having been in this wing for the past five years, I had adjusted to the inconveniences that were part of every day, such as desks askew and difficult to re-arrange, lighting that glared, little to no white space for writing, and technology that was limiting. Now, the lighting is great and there is so much room to write! We use the SmartBoard often but can quickly transition to the white boards to write something that can remain for a long time. Overall, the environment is welcoming and adaptable. Mary McCormick, English faculty
school news
School News graduation Families and friends gathered at the Shannon Center on the campus of Saint Xavier University on Sunday, May 19 to celebrate the 227 graduates of the Mother McAuley Class of 2019 during the school’s 63rd commencement ceremony. In keeping with a tradition dating back to 1846, graduates donned floor-length white dresses, complemented by long white gloves and the carrying of red roses. The ceremony began with a prayer and remarks by Principal Eileen Boyce O’Reilly ’03, followed by the valedictorians’ speeches, remarks by President Mary Acker Klingenberger ’75, and the conferring of diplomas by Dean of Upperclasswomen, Meg Griffin Gardner ‘99. The salutatorian then introduced the alumna speaker. Remarks by the faculty speaker and student speaker rounded out the event. Valedictorians Caroline Docherty and Grace Gorman completed their senior year with the highest Grade Point Average (GPA) among their classmates. Both maintained a rigorous schedule of nine Advanced Placement classes and many honors level classes, earning A’s for every course, for every semester. Both students will attend the University of Notre Dame in the fall. Fiona Biondic and Megan McGinley were elected by their classmates as student speakers. In their joint speech, the girls shared highlights from their four years at McAuley. This marked the sixth year that Mother McAuley invited an alumna to address the graduates during commencement. The class salutatorian, holding the second highest GPA among her classmates, has the honor of introducing the alumna speaker. Bridget Doody earned this distinction for the Class of 2019. This year’s alumna speaker, Katie Schumacher-Cawley ’97 is an alumna of Penn State University, and the assistant coach of the school’s women’s volleyball team. She previously served as head coach at the University of Pennsylvania. As a student at Penn State, she played for the Nittany Lions’ women’s basketball and volleyball teams, helping the latter win three Big Ten conference championships and the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) title in 1999. Schumacher-Cawley was twice named an NCAA All-American. While attending graduate school at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) she volunteered with the women’s volleyball team before becoming head coach, leading the UIC Flames to 113 wins during her eight-year tenure. Schumacher-Cawley is a member of the Girls’ Catholic Athletic Conference Hall of Fame, the Chicagoland Sports Hall
of Fame, and in 2014, she was inducted into the McAuley Hall of Honor. “I use skills that I developed here at McAuley on a daily basis at Penn State where I am responsible for developing and teaching collegiate women lessons far beyond volleyball skills,” said Schumacher-Cawley. “I am in charge of helping them lean in to their strengths and overcome challenges they never thought possible. As I think of my time here at McAuley, I want to leave you with three words that, to me, best represent this school and sisterhood: Grit - having the passion and perseverance to never quit, to honor your beliefs and to be able to grind thru the hard times; determination - no matter what dreams you have, believe in yourself and do not ever be afraid; and gratitude - never, ever forget where you came from… always remember who you are representing – your family, your faith and yourself.”
Theology teacher Ms. Laura Snow was selected as the faculty speaker. Laura has been a member of the faculty for nearly 28 years and is well-known and beloved by students as director of the Kairos retreat program. To conclude the ceremony, senior members of the McAuley Advanced Chorus sang, “Whenever You Remember” in tribute to their class, followed by the Suscipe, the school tribute to a written work of Catherine McAuley. Visit our website, mothermcauley.org to read all the speakers’ remarks in their entirety.
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school news
100%
college acceptance rate
87%
accepted into their first choice school A record
McAuley speakers: (from L to R) Alumna speaker, Katie Schumacher Cawley ’97; faculty speaker, Laura Snow; Caroline Docherty (valedictorian); Bridget Doody (salutatorian); Grace Gorman (valedictorian); Fiona Biondic (student speaker); Megan McGinley (student speaker); president, Mary Acker Klingenberger ’75; principal Eileen Boyce O’Reilly ‘03.
$51 million in college scholarships
2
National Merit Commended Scholars Caroline Docherty and Kathryn Pasquinelli
2
Chick Evans Scholars Asia Sobek and Madison O’Connell Ireland Arundel receives her diploma from Principal Eileen O’Reilly.
2
A. Franklin Pilchard Scholars Fatima Gomez, and Claire Sheehan
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Illinois State Scholars
18
From left: Erin Kampwirth, Nyah Jones and Abigail Joiner display their diplomas at graduation.
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collegiate sports commitments
school news Class of 2023 - Admissions Update We are excited to welcome 227 girls to the Class of 2023! Here’s a look at the class overall. The three most popular names are:
Lots of Legacies!
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1. Grace
(8 total students!)
2. Elizabeth, Emma, and Megan/Meghan
224,975
$
awarded in scholarships to freshmen for the 2019-2020 school year. As several are renewable, this will total at least
The students represent:
70
feeder schools
(6 students)
43
3. Lily
zip codes
(5 students)
11
545,900
$
Number of scholarships which equal half tuition
during four years of high school.
students have a MOTHER who graduated from McAuley
17
students have a GRANDMOTHER who graduated from McAuley
72
have a SISTER who attends McAuley
Earlier this spring we treated the Class of 2023 and their families to a delicious Freshman Fiesta Dinner. It has become our tradition to welcome our families with this special treat as our thanks for choosing McAuley.
What is a McAuley girl? We invite 6th through 8th grade girls to join us for a SHADOW DAY and find out! 7th and 8th graders H September 3 - December 5 6th and 7th graders H January 7 - April 30
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school news
academics Intro to Business We were pleased to introduce a new college-credit course to our program in the 2018-2019 school year. The Intro to Business class, taught by Suzanne Cromlish, assistant professor in the management & marketing department in the Graham School of Management at Saint Xavier University, introduced McAuley students to business contexts, functions and career paths within the business field.
Math Macs
After practice competitions with other area schools, the Math Macs qualified individual students and teams for the State Math Competition, held on the campus of the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana. Sixteen students had a chance to be part of the competition that included public and private school teams from across the state.
Professional Advice Beyond The Classroom (ABCs) Led by alumna Katie Hawking ‘00 & Nick LoMaglio, our new Professional ABC’s: Advice Beyond the Classroom group aims to set students up for success in business and in life, covering topics such as networking, time management, interviewing and goal setting. Our McAuley team finished with a win in the State Championship held at UBS Financial Services Inc. They gave their final presentation on what they learned from the “ABC” program, competing against students from St. Rita High School and Carmel Catholic High School. Other activities included field trips with St. Rita students to visit business leaders at Chicago companies, including Altair Advisers, PepsiCo and The Mill Creative Agency. Special thanks to our McAuley alumnae, Nora Kellam Quartaro ‘02, Carrie Joyce Nowicki ‘01 and Erica Rangel Hilbert ‘99 for their assistance!
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school news
S.T.E.M. McAuley hosted Science Technology Engineering and Math (S.T.E.M.) week, led by members of the Computer Science Essentials class. Students were exposed to a variety of engaging projects, including an “App Store” featuring apps designed by students. They also used 3-D pens to make works of art and learned to program and code self driving vehicles.
Little School Program Students in McAuley’s Little School Program took a field trip to Blair Early Childhood Center. They enjoyed working with the students, learning about the services and talking with faculty and staff, many of whom are McAuley alumnae!
Academic Decathlon The Academic Decathlon Team competed in the State Competition. Clare Graney Dolan ‘19 and Colette Manahan ‘20 both brought home gold medals; Clare for her interview and Colette for her Speech.
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school news
McAuley Named an Amazon Future Engineer-Sponsored School In early 2019, McAuley was named a participating school in the Amazon Future Engineer program. This initiative was launched in November 2018 and includes the allocation of $50 million for programs which encourage and enlist underserved or underrepresented students in computer science. McAuley was one of the very first all-girls’ private schools nationwide to be named part of the program. McAuley hopes to encourage students’ exploration of computer science to help advance the number of women pursuing careers in Science Technology Engineering and Math (S.T.E.M.) – countering gender disparity within these fields. Resources and programs are essential to direct and foster girls interest in S.T.E.M. Having been founded on the premise of empowering women, this exciting partnership with Amazon supports our efforts to help our students develop skills and talents that will benefit their own education and career aspirations, and also narrowing the gap between the number of women and men in S.T.E.M. professions.
Women who try A.P. Computer Science in high school are
10 times more likely to major in the subject in college. (source: Amazon)
As part of the program, faculty and students have exclusive and free access to: • Resources to help prepare students for McAuley’s new Advanced Placement (A.P.) Computer Science Principles course. • Cloud-based resources to help ready students for the A.P. exam. • Professional development via a 40-hour, self-paced course to prepare faculty who plan to teach A.P. Computer Science Principles. This new course started in the 2019-2020 school year. Students who successfully complete A.P. Computer Science with a Grade Point Average (G.P.A.) of 3.0 or better and decide to continue their studies in college are eligible for a $10,000 scholarship through Amazon. These same students will then qualify for an internship at Amazon during their freshman and sophomore years in college, pending they have a 3.0 G.P.A., major in computer science, and complete 10+ hours of computer science service, as outlined through the program.
“Nurturing girls’ interest in S.T.E.M. fields of study is imperative, especially as S.T.E.M. careers are often referred to as the jobs of the future,” said Kim Turnbull, chair of the McAuley science department. “The Amazon Future Engineer program augments our S.T.E.M. pipeline and is a fantastic complement to current courses and clubs like Engineering Principles, Computer Science Essentials and Art and Emerging Technology, and Girls Who Code.”
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59% of all new jobs in S.T.E.M. are in computing. (source: Bureau of Labor Statistics)
school news
faculty accolades Theology teacher, Mr. Art Sheridan, received the 2019 National Catholic Education Association “Lead. Learn. Proclaim.” award. He is one of 27 individuals from across the country to earn this honor. He was nominated for his work heading up our Appalachian Mission Project and his wonderful work in the classroom.
Ms. Rebecca Houston of our social science department was nominated for the 2019 Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching.
Science faculty member Mr. Bob Thomas was recognized as an exemplary teacher by Valparaiso University. Mr. Thomas was nominated by McAuley alumna Kayla Herrera ‘15, who credits Mr. Thomas for inspiring her to pursue a career in computer science.
Macs with Merit Congratulations to our Macs With Merit! These students were chosen by a teacher or staff member to be honored for their diligent work ethic and notable contributions to the McAuley Community. They are celebrated at a breakfast and presented with a special sweatshirt indicating this distinction.● Fall 2018
Spring 2019
MATH Gianna Kmak ‘22 Isabel Gonzalez ‘20 Erica Hollander ‘19 Nicole Hozzian ‘19
PERFORMING ARTS Caroline Witowski ‘21 Samantha Brosseau ‘20 Noemi Morquecho ‘19 Jenny Mulvey ‘19
WORLD LANGUAGE Rebecca Marmolejo ‘21 Mia Roche ‘21 Katherine DeSanti ‘19 Marilyn Orellana ‘19
PHYSICAL EDUCATION Angel Rabadi ‘22 Cecelia Antonietti ‘22 Grace White ‘22 Arianna Oria ‘22
COUNSELING Kyli Wiliams ‘20 Grace Cahill ‘21 Brisa Torres ‘21 Cyana James ‘19
PEER MINISTRY Tess Clifford ‘19
SCIENCE Hope Lukasik ‘22 Nia Russell ‘20 Jamilynn Ostrowski ‘19 Jade Leinweber ‘19
LEARNING RESOURCE Mia Roche ‘21 Elise Owens ‘21 Morgan Riordan ‘20 Natalie Del Real ‘19
ATHLETICS Nyah Jones ‘19 Brenna Keaty ‘19 Nancy Kane ‘19 Meghan Murphy ‘19
ENGLISH Tina Song ‘21 Azenneth Hernandez ‘21 Fiona Hurless ‘20 Sara Chiappetta ‘22
VISUAL ARTS/ TECHNOLOGY Maeve Engquist ‘22 Andrea Gaddy ‘20 Peyton Scannell ‘19 Molly Dart ‘22
ADMINISTRATION Molly Maloney ‘20 Arie Cooper ‘19 Carey Barkmeier ‘19 Ariel Cooper ‘19
INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT Samantha Duggan ‘19 Allison Duggan ‘19 Kiley Melean ‘19 Jillian Seweryn ‘19
THEOLOGY Sarah Czyszczon ‘20 Sarah Koziarz ‘19 Colette Manahan ‘19 SOCIAL SCIENCE Molly Fineran ‘21 Malak Ayesh ‘21 Grace Hynes ‘19 Samantha Carlino ‘21
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school news
visual arts & technology McAuley students brought home several awards in the McCormick Foundation Scholastic Press Association of Chicago Journalism Award Conference. Congrats to the awardees in the following categories: SUPERIOR ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS Community Story: Nellie Revers ‘20 and Colette Manahan ‘19 Entertainment Review: Bridget Gallagher ‘21
We also celebrate these students who placed and earned awards in the Illinois High School Association Journalism Sectional Tournament: Nellie Revers ‘20 won 2nd place in the State for Yearbook Design (Double-Page Spread) Photography: Brisa Torres ‘21, 6th place Advertising: Colette Manahan ‘19, 6th place
Sports News Story: Anna Jaworoski ‘21
Infographics: Hannah Markiewicz ‘21, 6th place
EXCELLENT ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS
Yearbook Copy Writing: Deidre Sullivan ‘21, 4th place
Computer Graphics: Rachel Kapusciarz
Editorial Writing: Bridget Gallagher ‘21, 6th place
Original Cartoon or Drawing: Charlotte Wagner ‘20
Review Writing: Angelica Topor ‘21, 2nd place
Sports Photo: Erin Sullivan ‘19
Editorial Cartooning: Colette Manahan ‘19, 3rd place
Sports Feature Story: Siobhan Hickey ‘20
Copy Editing: Bridget Gallagher ‘21, 3rd place
Opinion Piece or Column: Anna Dargan ‘20
Yearbook Layout: Nellie Revers ‘20, 2nd place
Personality Profile: Erin Sullivan ‘19
Yearbook Caption Writing: Nellie Revers ‘20, 3rd place
Feature Writing: Angelica Topor ‘21, 5th place
Overall Layout and Overall Newspaper, as well as for a Staff Editorial on Food Waste
GOLD KEY AWARDS MaryKate Erklin ‘19 Abby Graeber ‘20 Layla Brown-Clark ‘19 Honorable Mention SILVER KEY AWARDS Sasha Anoshenko ‘21 Brooke Fitzpatrick ‘19 Adriana Hosticka ‘19 Maya Krueger ‘20 Savannah Reinhart ’19 MaryKate Erklin ‘19 Nancy Kane ‘19 Lizzie Ward ‘19
Presented by the nonprofit organization, the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers, the Midwest Scholastic Art Awards are the country’s longest-running and most prestigious scholarship and recognition program for creative students in grades 7–12.
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HONORABLE MENTIONS Nicole Hozzian ‘19 Colette Manahan ‘20 Sophie Signorelli ‘19 Xinlu Wang ‘20 Thalia Wesclitz ‘21
school news The following students received awards for entries into the annual Advocate Christ Hospital “Art From the Heart” Exhibition. These original student artworks have been selected to become part of the Advocate Christ Hospital Permanent Collection. Abigail Graeber ‘20 won the Grand Prize full tuition scholarship for a Saint Xavier University art class. Nicole Hozzian ‘19 won First Place prize of $100.00. Kate Fischer ‘19 won two Honorable Mention prizes of $25.00 each and Rachel Martineck ‘20 won an ‘Honorable Mention’ prize of $25.00
music & performing arts
Maggie Reed ‘20 was named “Best Actress” in the Illinois High School Theatre Competition by Broadway in Chicago. Twenty four students (12 for Best Actor and 12 for Best Actress) were nominated and selected from 72 productions and more than 275 student applicants throughout the state. Maggie, who performed as “Betty” in McAuley’s musical “White Christmas,” brought home the win and in June traveled to New York City to compete for the national title at the Jimmy Awards. As part of the experience, she spent 10 days participating in intensive performance workshops on the campus of New York University and performed on a Broadway stage.
Seniors Kiley Melean ‘19, Fiona Fleming ‘19 and Katie Pasquinelli ‘19 were chosen to perform in the Illinois Music Education Association District Festival in November after auditioning along with thousands of other music students from around Chicagoland.
Clare Graney-Dolan ‘19 made the All-State Improv Team at the Illinois State Theatre Festival, while Maggie Reed ‘20 performed in the All-State production of “In the Heights” as an ensemble member and as the understudy for the role of “Vanessa.” Hanna Bowen ‘20 was on light crew for “In the Heights,” and Katie Menke ‘20 came in 2nd for sound system set up during state’s Tech Olympics.
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school news
athletics
Our athletes and teams continue to dominate in local, regional, state and even international competitions! Here are the highlights from the 2018-2019 school year.
Water Polo The Mighty Mac water polo team, with a season end of 24 wins and four losses, finished third in the state finals after a tremendous season. This was the best finish for the team since 2013. The Macs lost in the semifinals to two-time defending state champ Stevenson High School. They also placed second in their conference. Becky Schofield ‘19 was named First Team All-State, while Maddie Schultz ‘21 and Kate Fischer ‘19 were named to Second Team All-State and Hannah Engquist ‘19 was named to Fourth Team All-State.
Bowling
Basketball The Macs were the state runner-up in the Class 4A championship game. Not since 1995 has the Mighty Mac basketball team had such an outstanding finish to its season. The team defeated Benet Academy before losing to Maine West in the championship game. Throughout its season, the team and players garnered many accolades. Grace Hynes ‘19 was named the Daily Southtown 2018-2019 Girls Basketball player of the year, and Coach Ashley Luke Clanton as Girls Basketball Coach of the Year. Both were also featured as a Comcast CN100 Sports “Prep Profile.”
Lacrosse The varsity Macs finished with a record of 8-6.
Softball
Jenna Badali ‘20 was named the Super 25 Girls Basketball Top Star in a poll by USA Today High School Sports.
The varsity Macs lost 6-5 in the Class 4A regional semifinal game against Richards High School, closing their season 22-4. Emma Cunnea ‘19 and Fiona Crane ‘22 were named GCAC All-Conference.
Grace Hynes ‘19, Jenna Badali ‘20 and Lauren Ramsey were named GCAC All-Conference.
Soccer
Track The team earned 5th place in the indoor and outdoor conference meets. Laniah Dennis ‘22 qualified for the state meet in the 100m dash and Amaya Ratliff ‘21, Laniah, Jordan Worix ‘22, and Makayla Moss ‘22, competed in the 4 x 200m relay at the state meet.
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Our junior varsity and varsity bowling teams placed third at the GCAC tournament. Hannah Brennan ‘19, Tamia Edwards ’22 and Ayana Coleman ‘21 earned All-Conference honors. For the second year in a row, a McAuley bowler was named the GCAC “Player of the Year!” Congrats, Ayana Coleman!
Varsity finished its season with a record of 16-7-2. The team lost to Lincoln-Way West on May 17 in a regional championship. The Macs were co-champions of the Chicago Cup tournament and came in second place in each of the PepsiCo tournaments. Grace Hynes ‘19, Jenna Badali ‘20, Abby Grobarcik McAuley ‘21 and Maeve Sheridan ‘19 were named GCAC All-Conference.
school news
Abbey Murphy ‘20 and the USA U18 Women’s Hockey team earned silver medals in the World Championship in Obihiro, Japan! Abbey was named “Player of the Game” during a preliminary match against Team Canada.
Welcome Coach Newell! Keisha Newell joined McAuley as head basketball coach and assistant athletic director on June 3. Coach Newell previously worked at Roosevelt University where she was head basketball coach. She takes the reins from Ashley Clanton, who guided the Mighty Macs for the last seven seasons. “There is such a great culture at McAuley, and an energy and excitement that surrounds the school and the athletic program,” said Newell. “Everyone is so friendly and welcoming and I’m proud to become a part of it.”
National Signing Day for the Class of 2019 Athletes Eighteen seniors celebrated signings securing their commitments to play collegiate level sports. Congratulations to: Ireland Arundel Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Lacrosse
Grace Hynes University of Chicago Basketball
Chole Ryan Saint Francis University Water polo
Nancy Kane University of Notre Dame Volleyball
Becky Schofield Indiana University at Bloomington Water polo
Hannah Engquist Mercyhurst University Water polo
Sinead McKillop Moraine Valley Community College Volleyball
Maeve Sheridan Augustana College Soccer
Kate Fischer Long Island University Water polo
Megan Murphy Saint Xavier University Volleyball
Hannah Swiatek University of Saint Francis Basketball
Morgan Hernandez Marian University Golf
Nikki Murphy Saint Mary’s College of Notre Dame for Basketball
Maddie Knightly Spring Hill Track & Field and Cross Country
Lauren Ramsey Lewis University Basketball
Trisha Noonan Trinity Christian College Volleyball
Mikayla Caponera Saint Ambrose University Cheer
Nicole Hozzian Cardinal Stritch for Volleyball
At Roosevelt, Newell set a record for the school with the most wins by a women’s basketball team since 20132014. Prior to joining the Roosevelt athletic department, Newell worked as the student athletic recruiter in undergraduate admissions at North Park University. During undergrad at Loyola University Chicago, Newell played point guard for the Ramblers. Following her graduation, she worked as director of operations for the Loyola women’s basketball program. One year later, she became the assistant women’s basketball coach and recruiting coordinator. Newell is a graduate of Marian Catholic High School in Chicago Heights.
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school news
MAC-tastic happenings
St. Patrick’s Day on WGN Morning News The Mac Melody Show Choir performed on the WGN Morning News Saint Patrick’s Day Broadcast at 115 Bourbon Street and our A Cappella Choir celebrated opening day for the Chicago White Sox by singing live during the station’s morning broadcast at ChiSox bar located across from Guaranteed Rate Field. Pictured with the group is Maggie Clifford ‘14, who was named Southside Irish Parade Queen.
Homecoming 2019 McAuley hosted its second annual Homecoming week in mid-September. The celebration included theme dress up days and competitions and culminated with the Homecoming Dance!
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school news
faith & service Macs Give Back
Students collected food for the Catholic Charities St. Blase Food Pantry.
A group of faculty and students traveled to help repair and build homes in Dickenson County, Virginia, as part of our Appalachia Mission Project.
Unity Community baked and sold sugar cookies to raise money for Gigi’s Playhouse, an organization that provides free educational, therapeutic-based, and career development programs for individuals with Down Syndrome, their families and the community.
The Respect Life Club participated in the Chicago Youth Rally for Life in March.
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school news Mercy Day 2019 During our annual Mercy Day celebration on September 20, 2019 we honored Mrs. Nancy Lynch and Molly Maloney ‘20 as recipients of the Catherine McAuley Award. It is bestowed upon on a senior student and a faculty or staff member who demonstrate a deep faith and commitment to the school and the students which inspires their co-workers, students and family members to be better stewards of Catherine’s vision.
Now in her 19th year at Mother McAuley, Mrs. Nancy Lynch has positively impacted thousands of Mighty Macs during their McAuley journey. In her multifaceted role, she trains current students in being Student Ambassadors, sharing the great news about McAuley with future Macs. In addition, she plans and executes events like the Freshman Fiesta, Freshman Picnic, Orientation, Senior Breakfast and more. She also led the remodeling of the Macs Limited Spirit Wear Store. Dean of Upperclasswomen, Mrs. Meg Griffin Gardner ‘99, shared this about Mrs. Lynch during the ceremony: “What sets Mrs. Lynch apart is her generous spirit and her compassionate nature. She is someone who gives to others without ever asking for anything in return. Nothing is ever too much and anything is always possible when Mrs. Lynch is involved.” Molly Maloney ’20 has been a member of the Cross Country Team, Varsity Club, Student Government, National Honor Society, Upperclasswomen Advisory Board, the spring play and the upcoming 2019 fall musical, “Grease.” Part of this extracurricular involvement includes the leadership positions she holds. Molly is the current Student Government president and Varsity Club president. Beyond school, Molly has been selected as an active participant in the University of Chicago’s Future Leaders Program as well as Mayor Lightfoot’s Chicago Youth Commission. She also is a member of the Most Holy Redeemer/St. John
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Fisher Youth Ministry Team. “Molly is a servant leader whose compassion for others allows them to see their own greatness that lies within,” shared Mrs. Gardner. Her permanent cheery smile brightens up every hallway and room she enters. Her selfless willingness to just jump in and help, gets the job done with enjoyment. Her kind and caring presence ensures both friends and strangers she is always there and willing to lend a happy, helping hand. Molly embodies Catherine’s spirit because of what she does and how she does it, always making Mother McAuley a better place because of her presence.” Mercy Day celebrates September 24, 1827 the day Catherine McAuley opened the first House of Mercy – a place to shelter and educate women and girls – on Lower Baggot Street in Dublin, Ireland. Each year Theatre Seminar students share the story of Catherine from the era, and the far-reaching results of her efforts. This year, the performance paid tribute to another Sister of Mercy who is a close member of our community: Sr. Brian Costello, RSM. Sr. Brian served as an administrator at Mother McAuley from 1968 - 1973 before moving on to various leadership roles within the Archdiocese and with other groups.
school news
in memorian Pat McGreal 1949 - 2019
Earlier this year, the McAuley Community mourned the passing of a true friend and faithful colleague, Mrs. Patricia McGreal. For more than 40 years, Pat was known for offering a warm smile, cheerful welcome and kind word to all who entered the McAuley library/media resource center. She is greatly missed by all who knew her, especially her McAuley students and colleagues Below is an excerpt from Pat’s obituary. “To know Pat was to know unending compassion and generosity, and we are deeply saddened to no longer be in her presence. To experience her selflessness and love was life altering, and although we mourn her passing, we are so thankful to have shared in her laughter, her joy, and all the wonderful adventures she led us on. She was our family, our teacher, our librarian, our historian, our Girl Scout leader, and our North West Territory Alliance American Revolutionary War reenactments leader, but most of all, she was our friend. Her love changed us all, and as we continue to share the love she gave us, we will ensure that her loving spirit echoes through eternity. Pat is survived by her daughter Jennifer Davies McGreal ‘03, granddaughter Greal, brother Michael (Cindy) McGreal, sister Mary (Jimmy) Clumpner, and preceded in death by her loving parents John and Norma McGreal. She leaves behind many nieces and nephews, including Scott (Carissa) Clumpner and Justin (Anastasia) Clumpner, Godchildren, including Chris Abernathy, cousins, and friends. “As a student during the years 1996-2000, I spent a lot of time in the library, I always managed to get a pass from a teacher to spend study hall in the library. Later, as a student studying for my master’s in library science at Dominican University, I returned to Mrs. McGreal to complete observation hours. Now, as a librarian, certified archivist and president of my own nonprofit in Chicago called the Lithuanian Archives Project, I remember my experience in the McAuley library as one of my favorite places to be. Mrs. McGreal touched many students’ lives.... I will always remember how welcoming she was, and how graciously she shared her knowledge with me.” Audra Adomenas ’00 Ms. McGreal is why I truly learned the Dewey Decimal System. My work-study time in the library helped my family pay my tuition. She will be missed!!! Shenise Scott ’07
A Retirement Celebration for Sister Lois This past June our McAuley family said “farewell” to Vice Principal, Sister Lois Bromark, SSJ, TOSF, who retired after 16 years of service to the school. Sister Lois joined McAuley in 2003 as the vice principal. In that time, she assisted four principals, always with the goal to determine how to best assist each individual in the style and needs presented to her. Furthermore, she mentored dozens of new and veteran teachers, formed strong bonds with individual students, and improved a variety of educational and extracurricular programs at McAuley. In particular, Sister Lois spearheaded the creation of the Catherine McAuley Honors Scholars to ensure the top academic students receive the enrichment and direction they need to succeed at such a high level. She led three successful AdvancED accreditation visits, and initiated the school’s first Employee Performance Review program and system, ensuring performance standards and ongoing professional growth of teachers. Sister Lois professed her vows as a Sister of Saint Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis in 1967. Within her vocation, she has devoted herself to better the lives around her both in education and in life. After several years teaching in grade schools and at Lourdes High School, she rose to the principal rank with a wonderfully dynamic team of two other administrators. Following that leadership position, Sister Lois chose to help those in most need as a Director of Saint Susana’s Homeless Shelter for the next 19 years. Knowing Sister Lois was an ever-coveted leader, Sister Rose Wiorek, then principal of Mother McAuley, recruited her. She has made an everlasting mark in each of the places she has worked, but most significantly, on the people with whom she worked. She often says everyone is replaceable but some people are just indispensable and she is certainly one!
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The Mighty Macs are hitting the road!
SAVE THE DATE Naples, FL
March 26, 2020 Join us and network with fellow alumnae! Alumnae in Naples are encouraged to join school president, Mary Acker Klingenberger ’75 and vice president for institutional advancement, Carey Temple Harrington ‘86 for a very special evening. Come enjoy conversation, cocktails and camaraderie with fellow alumnae and members of the Saint Xavier Academy and Mother McAuley community. More information to follow.
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