View from the Cupola - Winter 2023

STRATEGIES FOR SUCCESS

New Strategic Plan highlights the student experience.

Board of Trustees

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Lynda Geier Mules ’77 P ’05 ’13 | President

Sister Mary Raymond Thye, O.P. | Principal

William Glover P’15 | Vice President

Kate Ohlmacher McAuliffe ’02 | Treasurer

Peggy Stromberg Pasquarella ’81 | Secretary

GENERAL BOARD

Thomas Brinker P ’16 ’20 ’22

Larraine Clark P ’02

Reverend Michael DeAscanis

Timothy Dignan P ’12 ’14

Christopher Donahue P ’26

Paul M. Finamore, Esq. P ’11 ’16

Lindsay Gallagher

Julie Simon Gilless ’94

Kim Martel P ’00 ’02 ’08 ’15

Anna Binette O’Day ’05

Jackie Seboda Pfeiler ’86 P ’23

Reverend Michael J.P. Roach

John Teixeira

Advancement Team

Elizabeth Saverino ’87 | Director of Advancement

Karen von Lange P ’09 ’16 | Director of Communications

Claire M. Cohagan ’78 P ’07 ’11 | Director of Development

Katie Audy Ferrante ’10 | Director of Alumnae Relations

Kim Dignan P ’12 ’14 | Volunteer Coordinator

Rachel Sweeney | Graphic Designer

Alumnae Association Board

Megan McCawley ’10 | President

Colleen McKenna Walton ’07 | Vice President

Jeanne Schaible Langeluttig ’84 | Treasurer

Danielle Wilson Angelucci ’11 | Secretary

Julie Winpisinger ’10 | Chaplain

Mission Statement

Mount de Sales Academy forms young women in the spirit of Saint Francis de Sales and in fidelity to the Sacred Scripture and the Sacred Tradition of the Roman Catholic Church through a college preparatory education that nurtures the whole person. Anchored in faith, the community of Mount de Sales Academy is committed to academic excellence, lifelong learning, moral responsibility, service to others, and the dignity of the human person.

Special appreciation to our photographers: Billy McGee Photography and Elizabeth M. Photography

Front cover: Khouri Wells ’25, Marissa Fink ’25, Hana Hairston ’25

Mount de Sales Academy

700 Academy Road Catonsville, MD 21228 410.744.8498 | mountdesales.org

GREETINGS from the Principal

Dear Friends of Mount de Sales Academy,

There is something extraordinary about a Mount de Sales Academy education! I knew this arriving during the capital campaign as I learned first-hand the sacrificial giving of our generous community. Through COVID, I witnessed the commitment and trust between teachers and students. I continue to see in the faces of our students what an amazing education we offer our girls!

It is not unusual to hear alums describe how they are thriving. From the news about an English professor emailing a MDSA college freshman that her paper was of a higher quality than even some of his senior English majors to meeting an alum in the neighborhood who rushes to the sisters to say, “Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!” It is a delight beyond measure for us to hear such things, but not a surprise that they are learning the value of the education they received here. Mount de Sales is indeed an incredible place to be!

After our students participated in Mock Trial, one of the lawyers at the event shared that our students carried themselves with a poise distinct from other schools. The same week, a professor at The Catholic University encountered one of our sisters in D.C. and reflected that Mount de Sales students can be identified by their maturity, clarity of thought, and work ethic. The Baltimore Sun even highlighted our students twice this semester for their basketball games.

What is most gratifying for me is seeing grace work in the day-to-day lives of our students at Mount de Sales. I see glimpses of our mission, watching the girls grow intellectually and spiritually, take ownership of their faith, and branch out to take healthy risks in clubs, leadership opportunities, and new friendships. They flourish in this one-of-a-kind community.

Last year, we formed the 2022–2028 Strategic Plan. This plan focuses on investing in financial assistance for students, providing a robust student life, implementing a facility-condition assessment, and including more STEM offerings. While a strategic plan is a dream for the future, we are also garnering another school accreditation. This process is a check-up, ensuring we are who we say we are. In addition to Middle States Accreditation, we are now accredited by AIMS (Association of Independent Maryland & D.C. Schools).

We pray daily for all our students, parents, families, faculty, staff, alumnae, board members, and all who are connected to Mount de Sales Academy. May God continue to guide us, protect us, give His grace and blessing, and keep us faithful to our mission.

Sincerely in Christ,

Sister Mary Raymond, O.P. Principal

UNIQUELY MOUNT DE SALES!

To a Dominican Sister who has served at many schools, Mount de Sales stands out because of its unique contribution to the Church. The spirituality of St. Francis de Sales and the Visitation Sisters is manifest in the chapel’s iconography and stained-glass windows and religious art throughout the buildings. In 1985, the richness of the Dominican tradition merged with the Salesian spirituality to continue the mission to educate young women. From the top of the cupola, one can spot historical landmarks, yet the spiritual landmarks are imprinted in a significant manner in student activities.

The Mount de Sales tradition is truly “anchored in faith … and committed to lifelong learning, moral responsibility, service to others and the dignity of the human person.”

To me, Mount de Sales is special because the Catholic faith is not only integrated into academic subjects, the fine arts, athletics, student experiences, but also the Catholic faith is supported by the families, service opportunities, and involvement in the Archdiocese of Baltimore.

Sister Thomas More, O.P. English Department Chair

Leadership Forged through Legacy

Introducing our new Board President Lynda Geier Mules ’77 P’05’13

Tell us about your family legacy at MDSA.

My mother, class of 1948, passed along her love of Mount de Sales Academy. In fact, on my parents’ wedding day, they visited MDSA so the Visitation Nuns could see my mother in her wedding dress. There was never a doubt that her daughters would attend MDSA. She cherished her memories, lifetime friendships, and God-filled education and wanted the same experience for her family.

Three generations of our family, a total of 16 girls, have walked through the windows at graduation. We are truly a family of Sailors, sharing our love for MDSA, pride in our legacy, and Sailor Sisterhood

Thinking back to your time at MDSA, were there any programs or mentors that helped shape you as a leader?

There was not one moment that impacted my life, but the overall experience of MDSA, the love of the Visitation Sisters, the memories, lessons, and friendships, have all influenced who I am today. The MDSA experience is unique, founded in faith and community, fostering lifelong friendships and confident young women. I am grateful for the positive impact MDSA continues to have in my life.

As a student, what was a favorite MDSA tradition and why?

As an alumna, I am thrilled to see the addition of new traditions since I graduated. As a student, we looked forward to receiving our class rings. The class ring, which I still proudly wear today, symbolizes our love for MDSA, a strong school spirit, and the bond we share as Sailor Sisters.

What are your goals and aspirations for MDSA through your work with the Board of Trustees?

MDSA is proud of our dedicated past and current Trustees and their commitment to the school. So much has been accomplished, but we continue to focus on improving and moving forward while still preserving our traditions. This school year, we launched our new Strategic Plan, charting our course forward.

We will develop and implement a campus master plan using the Facilities Condition Assessment conducted last school year. Our finance and funding initiatives will expand our scholarships and financial aid while also continuing to prioritize our faculty and staff. We will continue to focus on the diversity and needs of our students, the affordability of tuition, our student population numbers, and our fundraising ability. The Board remains dedicated to maintaining the school’s vision and mission ensuring the continued growth and excellence of MDSA.

What is one thing you would like to ask of the MDSA community?

MDSA has thrived throughout our 171-year history because of the generosity and dedication of our community. Share your stories so we continue to attract young women looking for that MDSA experience. Continue your support of MDSA, and keep our students, faculty, and staff in your thoughts and prayers.

L to R: Danny Mules, Jessica Mules Dempsey ’05, Abbey Mules ’13, Lynda Mules ‘77 P’05 ’13, and Michael Mules

L to R: Jane Geier ’48 P’74 ’77 GP’ 05 ’08 ‘12 ’13 ’17, Jessica, Lynda, and Nick Geier +

STRATEGIES for Success

The Mount de Sales Academy Strategic Plan 2022-2028 charts the course for our on-going mission of providing high school girls a Catholic college-preparatory education that nurtures the whole person. This plan, which is the culmination of a year-long effort with cross-constituency input, will be executed under the direction of the Board of Trustees, the Administration, Faculty, and Staff of MDSA.

The seven focus areas of existing strengths for enhancement and opportunities for improvement in the Strategic Plan include: Faith, Academics, Student Experience, Technology, Admissions/Marketing, Funding, and Facilities.

Mount de Sales Academy is grateful for all who contributed to this plan. Jesus Christ is our anchor as we navigate MDSA’s bright future for the benefit of the girls entrusted to us for their education.

The Student Experience section was added to encourage strong personal and social networks for our students and to create a cohesive culture that fosters engagement. Read more about the inclusion of the Student Experience in the Q+A on page 7.

We are grateful to the dedicated members of the Student Experience Committee:

Val Fuecker Bailey ’03, Former Teacher and Dean of Student Affairs 2008-2022

Eric Dummann, Athletic Director

Lynda Geier Mules ’77 P’05 ’13, Board President

Christen Purcell, Director of Counseling

Angela Romeo ’94 P’18, Performing Arts Chair

Tex Teixeira, Board Member

James Zalucki P’12 ’15 ’20, Board Member 2013-2022

Vice Principal of Student Affairs

THERESA GREENE P’15’20

Navigates the Student Experience

The student experience is critical to a student's formation. How would you describe this at MDSA?

We have the privilege of educating women during one of the most critical growth periods in their development. It is a great honor and a great responsibility. As our student population is diverse, our student experience must follow. To unlock the potential hidden within each of our students, we strive to create an inviting and multi-faceted student experience offering a variety of options. We want our students to discover and experience new opportunities. We want them to meet challenges, to navigate obstacles, to manage successes, and to learn from failures within a guided and nurturing environment. Whether it be the arts, athletics, academics, faith, or other fields, we are committed to forming an experience to create knowledgeable, faithful, confident, and well-adjusted young women.

Why was the student experience introduced as part of the new MDSA Strategic Plan?

The student experience was included in the new Strategic Plan so that we could address the effects of the virtual learning environment during the 2020 and 2021 academic years. Many people were surprised this situation led to such a loss in a young person’s mental, spiritual, social, and emotional state. We needed to not only address this loss in their development, but also attempt to turn it around and gain back what was lost. Therefore, we decided to focus on revitalizing the student experience to help regain confidence, refamiliarizing them with communicating and interacting face-to-face instead of screen-to-screen, increasing their opportunities for effective interpersonal experiences, and inviting them to reengage. To that end, we decided to promote the “One 4 All” initiative. The challenge is for each student to strive to participate in at least one club, one faith experience, and one leadership opportunity all four years. Many students have taken the challenge seriously and the positive impact it has had on their demeanor has been nothing but remarkable.

How do co-curricular activities enhance the student experience?

Our young students can b ecome quite driven and hyperfocused. While these are good attributes, being too singleminded in one area can hinder growth and development in other areas. Co-curricular activities allow students to discover, play, travel, and broaden their worldview past the four walls of Mount de Sales or the small screen in their hand. Activities and clubs broaden our students’ experience of the world which spurs creativity and taps their sense of wonder. The hope is that through these experiences, they will begin to discover their God-given talents and ultimately, their vocation.

What is your wish for every MDSA student?

My wish is that every Mount de Sales student realizes that she is loved and made by God for a good and a specific purpose and to have confidence in her creative ability to become a great uniter and bridge-builder for humankind.

What are your interests and hobbies?

I enjoy spending time with my family, baking, traveling, and time outdoors.

Anchored in Excellence

LAURA O’FRIEL ’06

Vice Principal of Academics

What attracted you to education as a career?

A history teacher is a storyteller. Many readers from large families may agree, if you want to hold attention at the dinner table, you had better recount your day’s events concisely and with a large dash of humor. That experience was the perfect training to become a teacher. Though I explored other careers related to history, nothing matched the energy I felt when engaging with students in a classroom. Many of my MDSA high school teachers made lessons memorable through their wit and unabashed love for their chosen discipline. These teachers also expected us to push through academic setbacks and reach levels of critical thinking beyond what we believed we could achieve. My journey to become a teacher reflected this twofold motivation: the joy of talking about history every day and the desire to recreate the cheerful, challenging learning environment that I experienced at Mount de Sales.

What are your goals for supporting the faculty?

Mount de Sales is blessed with faculty that share in our mission of academic excellence. When I visit classes, I can tell that each activity represents hours of careful planning and creativity on the part of the teacher. That dedication is invaluable. My goal as an administrator is to support our faculty in their daily work by being open to their questions and needs, facilitating collaboration within and across departments, sharing professional resources, and assisting with the smooth running of an academic year.

What keeps you motivated and inspired as an educator?

I am continually impressed by students who stretch themselves academically, socially, and spiritually. Since coming to Mount de Sales, I have worked with all grade levels as a teacher and an administrator. It is amazing to watch our students grow from slightly bewildered freshmen into the confident young women who walk through the windows at graduation.

Post pandemic, what do you see as the greatest evolution/ change in education?

When MDSA moved to 1:1 devices years before the pandemic, our teachers studied ways to integrate digital technology while still honoring the human need for connection. COVID forced schools across the world into staggering levels of screen use, distancing teachers and students from each other. This unexpected experiment proved the hypothesis that Mount de Sales had presented many years before: We need each other to learn. We need each other to grow. I am optimistic that the post-pandemic world of education is more thoughtfully on board with this mission.

If you could summarize the philosophy that guides you as a professional, what would it be?

Ask questions. Observe and learn from those around you. Value the gifts that are offered by each of your teammates and share your gifts with others.

What are your interests and hobbies?

My siblings are spread across different states so we will set up “family dinners” where we all get on a phone call and chat while we cook the same recipe. Once, we also completed a simultaneous art project with laughable results. I love books, movies, classical music, British history, and recently have jumped into dog training with my delightful, intelligent, and, alas, often stubborn, tricolor collie named Reveille.

Alumnae Share their Successes CAREER DAY 2023

Career Day was an incredible event with 29 alumnae returning to share knowledge and advice with students starting to contemplate their future.

Students chose career presentations based on personal interest and strengths. Members of the National Honor Society and G.I.R.L. (Girls’ Initiative for Rising Leaders) Club introduced the presenters and hosted question and answer sessions. With so many different alumnae vocations, the students were able to learn about varying career paths including medicine, business, engineering, design, education, and many others.

Students heard from alumnae about how their time at MDSA equipped them for life after graduation. Maria Schaefer Nauman ’86 recounted that Mount de Sales “prepared me well for the rigors of successfully navigating a university curriculum…[and] gave me an unshakable foundation in the Catholic Faith.”

Jessica Henry ’11 added, “Mount de Sales helped me become a woman who is always seeking to grow intellectually and has a heart to care for others, while keeping my eyes on Christ.”

Thank you to the alumnae for their knowledge, advice, and time. We are grateful to Christen Purcell, Erinn Colletti, and Jordan D’Antonio, counselors, Kim Dignan, volunteer coordinator, Katie Ferrante, director of alumnae relations, and the student volunteers for putting together this awesome opportunity.

Maria LeMonnier ’17 | Communications Intern

The Sun Will Come Out Tomorrow!

The Mount de Sales Performing Arts Department presented the fall musical Annie to sold-out crowds in November. The cast, crew, and pit band shared this classic story with more patrons than ever, offering two weekends of shows in the Center for Performing Arts and Student Life.

Under the direction of drama teacher Mrs. Marian Newell, the young cast showed a glimpse into the life of 1930’s America. Averi Cain ’25 played the lead role with much spunk, beaming with optimism as she made everyone honestly believe that no matter what, “the sun will come out tomorrow!” The incredibly talented Holly Bruchalski ’23 was an audience favorite as mean old Miss Hannigan, and CC Conklin ’23 and Georgia Kelley ’25 were stand-out orphans, playing Pepper and Molly respectively. Sydney McGee ’23 brought elegance to the stage as Grace Farrell, complemented by the wonderfully endearing performance of MSJ senior Cooper Funk as Oliver Warbucks. Katherine Kurek ’23 shone brightly as the Star-to-Be, and MSJ’s Hans Raven ’24 personified Franklin D. Roosevelt, who was inspired by Annie to get a “New Deal for Christmas.” The Mansion Staff and Hooverville ensembles enthusiastically sang and danced through each musical number, bringing the entire story to life.

The invaluable student crew costumed the cast, made props, built the set, and ran lights and sound for this fantastic production with the help of amazing parent volunteers. Stage managers Josie Hill ’25 and Colleen Butler ’25 provided great leadership, calling the show, and keeping things moving both on and off the stage. Music Director Mr. Jeff Hosier conducted the pit band through the familiar score, from the rollicking Hard Knock Life to the jazzy Easy Street and the sweet Anything But You. Guests praised the professionalism of the performance, as the reputation of the MDSA musicals continue to impress.

The Mount de Sales Performing Arts Program provided a high level and meaningful educational experience to the nearly 100 students involved in the show. More importantly, participating in the fall musical gave these students a place of belonging as they collaborated to create, perform, and share their gifts and talents with the entire Mount de Sales community.

Angela Romeo ’94 P’18 Producer/Choreographer/Performing Arts Chair

“I love bringing a character to life and sharing the stage with very talented individuals.” - Holly B. ’23

PINK OUT

On January 6, the MDSA varsity and junior varsity basketball teams, led by varsity captains, Harper Eudy ’23 and Shelby Lewis ’25, not only secured a win over Severn High School, but also completed a successful Pink Out Basketball Fundraiser.

Started in 2013, the annual MDSA Pink Out Basketball Game benefits the St. Agnes Breast Cancer Center in honor of Carol Sauter, mother of a MDSA basketball player Katie Sauter ‘13, who sadly passed away from breast cancer.

The mood in the Constance and Samuel Pistorio Sports Complex was electric, filled with care for this great cause. The charity of the varsity and junior varsity players and their families allowed us to raise $2,550 for the St. Agnes Breast Cancer Center. Hearts on the new “Wall of Love” commemorate family members and friends affected by cancer.

The St. Agnes Breast Cancer Center is grateful for the support and generosity of our MDSA community. Funds raised help women navigate their health needs after a cancer diagnosis.

A special thank you to Mrs. Aimee Eudy P’23 and Mrs. Sheri Lewis P ’22 ’25 for their tireless help organizing the 2023 Pink Out Basketball Game.

Nancy Lukowski P’14

PERFORMING ARTS TAKE CENTER STAGE

The first annual Winter Showcase provided the drama and dance students an opportunity to share what they learned during the fall semester.

The Honors Acting Ensemble presented How I Got That Part, a hilarious one-act play all about the ups and downs of auditions and casting. The Winter Dance Concert made up Act II of the program, featuring the Dance Fundamentals and Ballet Technique classes followed by an impressive set of pieces by the Honors Dance Company, including a collaboration with the Honors Chamber Ensemble.

The Winter Showcase reflected the MDSA educational performing arts program, which balances process and product, allowing the girls to discover and share their talents with the community.

Have a Seat in the Center for Performing Arts & Student Life!

Take advantage of this rare opportunity to name a seat in the main auditorium of the Center for Performing Arts and Student Life. Your $1,000 gift, which can be pledged and paid over a period of up to four years, will be recognized with a seat named for you or someone special who you wish to honor.

Make your gift using the enclosed envelope, by visiting the Giving page of our website, or scanning the QR code below. For more information, please contact Katie Audy Ferrante ’10 at kferrante@ mountdesales.org or 410.744.8498 ext. 265.

ARTS ENDOWMENT ESTABLISHED

The John R. and Deborah Rando Baronas Fund for the Arts

Mount de Sales Academy is pleased to announce the establishment of The John R. and Deborah Rando Baronas Fund for the Arts honoring past parents Dr. John and Deborah Baronas P’00 ’14.

“This endowed fund, established at Mount de Sales Academy in 2023 by the Thomas More Project, honors Jack and Debbie Baronas, whose lives have followed the counsel of the prophet Micah: ‘All that is required of us is to live justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with God.’ Although not teachers by profession, Jack and Debbie generously share three gifts of the spirit – knowledge, wisdom, and understanding – with their grateful family, colleagues, and friends.”

-Louis M. Mercorella Director, Thomas More Project

“We are thankful and humbled to receive such a beautiful gift in honor of the Baronas family. May God bless them and all who help the Thomas More Project.” -Principal Sister Mary Raymond, O.P.

This fund will support any events, activities, programs, or courses that foster love of the arts at MDSA. Anyone is welcome to contribute to The John R. and Deborah Rando Baronas Fund for the Arts through a gift to MDSA with this designation noted. For more information, please contact Beth Saverino ’87, director of advancement, at esaverino@ mountdesales.org or 410.744.8498 ext. 139.

L to R: Andrew Tomlinson, Lou Mercorella, Merry Baronas Salamida ‘14 and son Isaac, Debbie and Jack Baronas P’00 ’14, and Julie Baronas Morgan ‘00

Why We Soiree!

To celebrate those who believe in our Sailors!

The annual Sailor Soiree is a celebration of the impact of philanthropy at MDSA. It is a time to celebrate those who choose to invest in the potential of our young women, and we cherish the time together!

Our students are the recipients of this beautiful generosity and Sydney McGee ’23 eloquently elaborated on the impact of the attendees’ philanthropy at the event:

“So, from the bottom of my heart, thank you. Thank you for the ways that you have blessed me and all my peers through your donations to this beautiful school. If you are here tonight, you have decided to be a part of something so much bigger than yourself. You have decided to help Mount de Sales raise up the next generation of women–women who will become inspiring leaders, dedicated workers, gentle wives, and mothers, but most of all, humble disciples. You are helping girls like me to strive for excellence, virtue, and above all heaven. Thank you!”

Scholarship Seeds Bloom for a Lifetime

THE COLLEEN MCDOWELL HUMANITIES SCHOLARSHIP

“I believe that the single most effective way to change the world is through education. I also believe that the Catholic school system does an exceptional job of educating its students and preparing them for the challenges they will face in the world. As a product of Catholic schools and a teacher in them, I have seen firsthand the value of this faith-based education.

Having taught at Mount de Sales for nearly 20 years and having our daughter graduate from this institution, it was a natural decision to support other young women in their pursuit of the Mount de Sales experience. It gives me great joy to be able to provide this opportunity to these young women who will go forth and make the world a better place because they have been given the gift of a quality education.” -Colleen

McDowell

Preference is given to St. Augustine School students who show great promise in the humanities.

ST. JANE FRANCES DE CHANTAL SCHOLARSHIP

The St. Jane Frances de Chantal Scholarship is awarded to two incoming freshmen who hold strong to their Catholic faith and have demonstrated leadership qualities in their church, school, or community. This scholarship is intended for a young woman who desires to develop her Catholic leadership qualities and utilize her gifts and talents to serve God and others.

“My education at Mount de Sales was an integral part of my formation as a Catholic woman, and I am thrilled to have the chance to give back to the community I cherish so dearly. These scholarships will be awarded to muchdeserving future Sailors who I hope will have just as an amazing experience at Mount de Sales as I did.” -Elise Crawford-Gallagher ’09

Administered by: Jane Crawford P’09 ’12, Elise Crawford-Gallagher ’09, and Colleen Crawford ’12

“We depend on the support of philanthropy; it is essential to continue our work of providing a top-quality education that prepares our young people for college and gives them a solid foundation for life!”

-Principal Sister Mary Raymond, O.P.

To learn how you can make a difference with scholarships, please contact Claire Cohagan ’78, director of development, at ccohagan@ mountdesales.org or 410.744.8498 ext. 126.

Wayne and Colleen McDowell P’01

Cecilia Pham ’24, Gia Patel ’24, Elise Crawford-Gallagher ’09, Sydney McGee ‘23

Galentine’s Open House

HOSTED BY THE ALUMNAE ASSOCIATION

“You can be yourself here.”

This was the response Brigid Kemmerer ’96 received from a senior Sailor at her freshman orientation when she asked if students could wear make up to school. At the February 15 Alumnae Association’s Galentine’s Open House, guest speaker and New York Times Bestselling Author Brigid Kemmerer recalled how these words have come to mind again and again when faced with opportunities and challenges. Brigid also recounted the times that women have supported and encouraged her personally and in her career. Sailors supporting Sailors, whether after a difficult exam or at a student talent show, is a hallmark of MDSA embodied by our alumnae.

Alumnae Association President Megan McCawley ’10 welcomed approximately 100 alumnae spanning over sixty graduation years to the Galentine’s Open House. While enjoying delicious food and specialty cocktails, the alumnae celebrated Sailor Sisterhood. Meg was supported by her active Executive Board, including Colleen McKenna Walton ’07, and dedicated volunteers. Sisterhood was the highlight of the evening with catching up, reminiscing, and a school tour including the A-side fourth floor, where some alumnae took the opportunity to leave a mark! The alumnae also encouraged the Class of 2023 by writing messages on a banner that was displayed at the 100 days until graduation celebration.

The Alumnae Association is a diverse group of alumnae from many generations who enjoy working together to support student activities and scholarships. To learn more about how you can have fun supporting your alma mater with the Alumnae Association, please contact Katie Ferrante ’10, director of alumnae relations, at 410.744.8498 ext. 265 or kferrante@mountdesales.org.

Alumnae Spotlight: KELSEY KOENIG

My name is Kelsey Koenig, class of 2010. I have loved animals all my life, and ever since I was eight years old, I have wanted to be a veterinarian. I am currently lucky enough to be an equine veterinarian in Florida.

This year, I had a wonderful opportunity to go to South Africa for an equine conference. Because my all-time favorite movie is The Lion King, I have always wanted to go to Africa to experience a safari and get close with lions, elephants, and other wild animals. At this conference, I learned new equine medical techniques, working on rhinos and elephants, and finally, I was able to go on a safari where I watched the wildlife veterinarians implant a tag on an elephant bull and a white rhino to monitor movements and health parameters. I learned about the importance of conservation of the plants and animals of Africa. I explored the wonderful nature of South Africa, viewing Table Mountain and visiting cape penguins. This was the trip of a lifetime and is something that I will never forget.

I am very honored to have achieved my goal. I know the Mount de Sales community, teachers, students, and curriculum taught me hard work, dedication, and time management, all which were crucial in reaching my goals. I would not have been able to attend veterinary school or have the opportunity to experience South Africa without the teachers and community at MDSA.

Alumnae Updates

Dawn Frazier Arnett ’79 has retired from her teaching career. She taught AP Chemistry for 23 years and International Baccalaureate Chemistry for four years at Titusville High School and Sebastian River High School. Dawn and her husband just bought an RV and will travel to Montana in June. Florida has been their home since 1986.

L’Oreal Thompson Payton ’04 is a health and wellness reporter for Fortune magazine. Her debut book, Stop Waiting for Perfect, is available for preorder now and comes out August 15, 2023.

Dawn Mooney ’83 married the love of her life, Jim Grammar, on September 25, 2022. The ceremony was held on the waterfront of the Knollview House in Pasadena, MD. They shared their day with their children, grandchildren, siblings, and friends. The couple reside in Sparks, MD.

Alli Ribb Krist ’07 and her husband, Matt Krist, opened Backwater Books, an independent bookstore in Historic Ellicott City. Follow them on Instagram @backwaterbooks and stop in to visit when you are on Main Street.

Theresa Deramo ’91 has expanded her practice, Essence of Wellness, in Pasadena, MD. Theresa is board certified by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine in the state of Maryland to treat people and companion animals. She also offers Halotherapy (salt room), a Migun far-infrared massage bed, a massage therapist, reflexologist, and an integrative nutritionist.

Meghan Clarke

O’Donnell ’09 and husband, Brendan, welcomed their first baby, a son, Sebastian Ellis O’Donnell, on July 19, 2022. Brendan is an alumnus of Mount Saint Joseph High School, class of 2008.

Meagan Lafferty

Fritsch ’09 graduated from Emory University’s Doctor of Nursing Practice Nurse Anesthesia Program in August 2021. She currently works as a nurse anesthetist in Annapolis, MD. Meagan and her husband, Kenny, welcomed their first child, Alice Marie, on July 27, 2022.

On October 6, Laura Kopp Starr ’02 and her husband, Jeff, along with their cats, Sanskrit and Shimmer, welcomed Evie Joy to their family! A long-awaited miracle, she was born at 7 lbs. 1 oz. and measured 19.5 inches long. After a 17-day stay at Johns Hopkins Hospital, Evie is doing wonderfully and bringing incredible amounts of joy to the Starr household!

In the last two years, Elise Crawford-Gallagher ’09 and husband, Hunter, have welcomed daughters Rosemary Ann (March 2021) and Emilia Jane (June 2022). Hunter is a family and criminal defense attorney in Baltimore. Elise owns a marketing agency, Ringlet, and is the Founder and Co-President of Catholic Women in Business. They moved to Elkridge, MD from Washington D.C. in April 2022.

Alumnae Relations Director

Katie Audy Ferrante ’10 and her husband, Matt, welcomed their son Nicholas Joseph Ferrante on December 26, 2022. He is looking forward to his first Easter Egg Hunt and taking walks to visit mom at work.

Sailor Sisters from the Class of 2011 share the joy of motherhood. All three gave birth to sons in 2022. The boys are destined to become lasting friends. Left to right:

Longtime friends from the Class of 1953, Frances M. Grace Glinka, Nancy Teak Snyder, and Joan Feehly Weglein, will celebrate their 70th high school reunion this year.

What a tribute to the Sailor Sisterhood!

Maura

Cunningham Nowicki with Brooks, Erin Thompson Campbell with Miller, and Carly Green Cashen with Keegan.

We love to hear from our alumnae and want to feature you in the next publication. Please keep us up to date with current news. Send your updates to Katie Audy Ferrante ’10, director of alumnae relations, at kferrante@mountdesales.org.

Jodi Schneider Mayhak ’12 and husband, Brennan, welcomed their son, Lucas, in March 2022. He joins big brother Martin and is adored by all. Jodi works as a transmission line engineer in Denver, CO.

BASKETBALL - June 19-22

CHEERLEADING - July 10-13

DANCE - June 12-16

FIELD HOCKEY - June 19-22

LACROSSE - July 18-20

TENNIS - June 26-29

VOLLEYBALL - July 24-27