Educating Founders since 1858
Moun t Sa in t Joseph Ac a demy Ma ga z i n e
Mount’s New Strategic Plan • Graduation
Summer 2018
New Education Savings Opportunity!
A new tax legislation includes a provision that permits 529 plan account owners to use assets to pay for qualified K-12 tuition expenses up to $10,000 per year, per student regardless of the number of 529 accounts open for an individual. Account owners can treat qualified K-12 withdrawals as qualified expenses with respect to the federal and Pennsylvania state tax benefits. For additional guidance on this new provision, please consult a qualified tax advisor about your personal situation.
EITC&OSTC TAX CREDIT SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMS
Nearly 34% of current Mount students benefit from financial aid and that number increases annually. You can redirect your PA taxes as financial aid dollars to the Mount! The Educational Improvement Tax Credit and the Opportunity Scholarship Tax Credit are Pennsylvania tax credit programs that allow Pennsylvania businesses that pay applicable taxes, as well as individuals who pay personal income tax through an LLC, S Corp, or who own or are a member of an LLP, to receive up to a 90% TAX CREDIT to be used by schools like the Mount for financial aid.
“The PA EITC credit program is a great way to put the money that Philadelphia Insurance Companies would otherwise pay in Pennsylvania taxes to a cause we believe in – a Mount education. We know that my company’s tax dollars will go directly to the Mount to be used as financial aid for young women who need the additional assistance. We are thrilled to take advantage of this very convenient and effective opportunity to support the mission of the Mount.” Michael & Heather Kelly ’88 [Michael, SVP Finance & Treasurer for Tokio Marine North America / Philadelphia Insurance Companies] Elizabeth ’17, Caroline ’20, & Katherine ’22
How it works
The process is easy! Simply fill out a one-page application that can be found on www.newpa.com. You can apply for one or two years of credit. For a one-year commitment, you will receive a tax credit of 75% of your contribution. For two years, you will receive a tax credit for 90% of your contribution. There is no minimum to participate and businesses can receive up to $750,000 in tax credit annually. Upon approval, you have 60 days to make your gift to the Mount in one of these ways: Mount Saint Joseph Academy Scholarship Fund directly Henkels Foundation, with a designation to Mount Saint Joseph Academy Business Leadership Organized for Catholic Schools (BLOCS), with a designation to Mount Saint Joseph Academy.
Who can apply?
Businesses in Pennsylvania that pay the following taxes: Individuals who are a member of an LLC Capital Stock/Foreign Franchise Tax Corporate Net Income Tax Bank Shares Tax Title Insurance & Trust Company Shares Tax
Insurance Premium Tax (with some exclusions) Mutual Thrift Tax Malt Beverage Tax Retaliatory Fees under section 212 of the Insurance Company Law of 1921
For more details on EITC/OSTC tax programs, go to www.msjacad.org/give or www.newpa.org.
contents [Mount Magazine]
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I I I I I I I I I I I
From the President On the Mount Go Mount New Strategic Plan for Mount Saint Joseph Academy Graduation Mount Fund Turf Reception Letter from Alumnae Association President From the Archives Reunion 2018 Class Chatter
CORRECTION: The Mount’s Fashion Show collaboration with Montgomery County Down Syndrome Interest Group (MCDSIG) was the Women as Founders Week project for both Maeve McCormick ’18 and Madison Feeney ’18. Mount Magazine regrets the error in omitting Maeve’s name.
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DEPARTING FACULTY AND STAFF Whether retiring or moving on to new opportunities, the Mount sends these faculty and staff members off with well wishes. Their presence will be collectively missed in the halls and classrooms.
Magazine managing editor
Kristen DiPrinzio editorial staff
Jill Gregori, Rose Lamphere, Leigh McFadden, Theresa Moyer, Jody Romano writers
Kristen DiPrinzio, Jody Romano class chatter
Theresa Moyer, Rose Lamphere photographers
Dr. Bonnie Balcer English Department Served at the Mount since 2007
Miss Marybeth Competelli Guidance Served at the Mount since 2011
Sam Fritch Photography, Kristen DiPrinzio, Jody Romano, Mike Stevenson designer
Maridel McCloskey, McCloskey Designs printer
Garrison Printing Co., Pennsauken, NJ president
Sister Kathleen Brabson, SSJ principal
Dr. Judith A. Caviston vp of institutional advancement
Jody Romano
director of development
Jill Gregori
director of alumnae
Theresa Moyer
Mrs. Carole Deshagette Foreign Language Served at the Mount since 2008
Mr. Michael Gambone Theology Served at the Mount since 2015
director of communications
Kristen DiPrinzio
mount fund coordinator
Leigh McFadden
development coordinator
Rose Lamphere
celebrauction director
Cindy Moore
submit class notes online at: www.msjacad.org/classchatter send comments or corrections to:
Mount Saint Joseph Academy Editorial Office, 120 West Wissahickon Avenue, Flourtown, PA 19031 contact: 215-233-3177; mount@msjacad.org
Mrs. Blanche Haughton Science Department Served at MSJA since 2007
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Summer 2018
Mr. Joseph Wright Maintenance
Mount Magazine is an official publication of Mount Saint Joseph Academy. Mount Magazine is published three times a year (Spring, Summer, Fall) for students, alumnae, parents and friends of Mount Saint Joseph Academy.
from the
President
Dear friends, In my remarks to the Class of 2018, I shared an experience with them about my recent trip to France and my visit to Musee D’Orsay, the French Impressionist museum located on the banks of Seine River in the heart of Paris. I spoke of a daunting sculpture created by Jean-Baptiste Carpeaux named The Four Parts of the World, and how this splendid piece of art captivated and symbolized for me the last line of our mission statement, “on the education of women, largely depends the future of society.” Since returning to the Mount, I continued, in the quiet moments of my day, to escape to d’Orsay and ponder the sculpture’s meaning for me, while reflecting on what had become my wish for the Class of 2018 as they embark on the future. The lyrics of Josh Groban’s song, “You Raise Me Up” came to mind, and I saw the four women of the sculpture and the lyrics of this song fitting my experience of the Class of 2018. I told them that I have witnessed their raising us up and challenging us to be more than we can be by their example of courage, compassion, sisterhood, and their welcoming spirit that characterized their time at the Mount. I reminded them that their first year at the Mount marked an important time in our history. Malala Yousafzai was awarded the Philadelphia Freedom Medal and some of our young women participated and shared in this event. Malala is quoted as saying, “If one girl with an education can change the world, what can 130 million do?” I told them they could answer Malala with their life choices.
Les quatre parties du monde soutenant la sphère celeste by Jean-Baptiste Carpeaux at the Musee d’Orsay in Paris.
Please join me in congratulating the Class of 2018 as they continue to inspire us and raise up the dignity of women, and to live and believe that, “on the education of women largely depends the future of society.” In December 2017, the Board of Directors completed its strategic plan that will provide a direction for the Mount while deepening the understanding and mission of the Sisters of Saint Joseph and Mount Saint Joseph Academy. In these pages you will read about, and hopefully be inspired by, their hard work. It is an exciting time, one where I welcome you to join in continuing the legacy of the great women who have gone before us in these last 160 years. This summer edition is filled with pictures from graduation, Alumnae Day, and many of our spring events. I hope you will see people you know or better yet, that you will see yourself as you remember the events of these past months. Please know that we at the Mount value being in relationship with you, and we count on your partnership and support. Enjoy the summer, rest and renew your spirits and celebrate whenever you can! Warm regards,
Sister Kathleen Brabson, SSJ President mount saint joseph academy
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On The Mount
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Oivia D’Angelo ’20 earned a perfect score on the ACT. It
was her first time taking the test.
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Stow Weiss ’19 and her mixed doubles partner were
awarded the #1 team in Mixed Doubles in the Middle States, according to the United States Tennis Association (USTA). Grace Wallis ’18 was selected to play on the USA Field
Hockey U19 Junior National Team. After three months of training, the team traveled to Ireland in late March for a series of test matches. Grace will attend University of Virginia as a member of their field hockey team this fall. Amanda Lamphere ’19 was a recipient of the Widener
University High School Leadership Award. Amanda was selected for participation in community service efforts. Her accomplishments were celebrated on March 13 with a breakfast and she has the opportunity to attend a leadership conference at Widener in the fall.
Summer 2018
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Alexandra Dobbs ’20 was selected to perform in a choral
concert sponsored by the Honors Performance Series at Carnegie Hall. Alexandra was chosen to be a member of the all-girls choir made up of 150 rising musical stars. Dr. Lynn Gackle, Professor of Ensembles and Chair of the Music Department at Baylor University in Texas, was Alexandra’s vocal coach who helped to prep her for the performance. Amy Brady ’11, Kathryn Hoffman ’13, and Patricia Hoffman ’13 visited Mrs. Blanche Haughton’s Physiology class on
April 10 for a guest lecture. The alumnae are all students at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, class of 2021. They spoke to the MSJA students about their journey through college and medical school, and their future career plans.
School news from Mount Saint Joseph Academy
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The Mount hosted a one-woman performance on the life of Marie Curie. Susan Marie Frontczak of Coloradobased Storysmith acted the life and scientific discoveries of Curie during an assembly. The performance was made possible by a donation from Cathy Drennen Siegl ’60 to enhance the arts at the Mount. MSJA held the annual Miles of Magic 5K on April 14. All proceeds benefited the Stephanie Leonards Roman Scholarship. For their Women As Founders project, Kelly Ryan ’18 and Brenna Reilly ’18 organized Day on the Diamond, a softball tournament for special needs adults and children, on April 22. More than 30 people participated, and more than 30 Mount students volunteered at the event, which was held at the Mount.
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The Mount kicked off its inaugural 10 Spirit Week the last week of April.
Events planned throughout the week focused on providing students a better understanding of the Mount Fund and how it benefits each student in different ways, and encouraging all students to participate with a small gift. Special events throughout the week included a surprise assembly, dance party, and locker decorating contest.
Mount’s Art Show was held on April 25 and 26. Pieces 11 The in various media from all art classes were showcased. Mount was once again recognized on Niche.com ‘s list 12 The of the area’s top private schools. MSJA ranked 20th overall and 2nd in Catholic, all-girls’ schools. The criteria for the list was private high schools, with or without a religious affiliation, located within 20 miles of Philadelphia.
Fall 2017 mount saint joseph academy
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Boyer has been appointed Head Coach for Varsity 13 Sue Field Hockey, starting this fall. Her previous positions
included coaching at Immaculata University, West Chester Rustin High, and Penncrest High. Sue played forward/ midfield at Ursinus College. She is a United States Field Hockey Association-certified Level II Coach.
honored our athletes who have committed to play 14 We a sport in college in a reception on May 24. Front row,
from left: Erica Arnold (Georgetown University; crew), Elena Filograna (Haverford College; volleyball), Jennifer DeGroat (Loyola University Maryland; swimming), Grace DiGiovanni (Quinnipiac University; track), Mary Kate Stefanowicz (Bucknell University; field hockey), Madelyn Walsh (University of Tennessee; crew), Madison Feeney (Franklin & Marshall College; soccer), Ashley Moore (University of Scranton; field hockey), Grace Wallis (University of Virginia; field hockey), Corinne Filograna (Loyola University Maryland; volleyball). Back row, from left: Taylor Dragonosky (University of Delaware;
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Summer 2018
swimming), Karsen Healy (Boston University; crew), Madeline Curran (University of Delaware; crew), Gabriele Natale (University of Tennessee; crew), Cathryn Antonacio (University of Alabama; crew), Brynn Pelletier (University of Alabama; crew), Cassidy Abdalla (Rowan University; volleyball), Katie Hallahan (University of Minnesota; crew), Abby Schwenger (University of Miami; crew), Katelynn Clement (Rochester Institute of Technology; crew). annual Senior Recognition Night, held on May 24, 15 The honored the accomplishments of our graduating seniors. Pictured: London Butler ’18 receives an award from Dr. Caviston.
June 8, freshmen, sophomores, and juniors gathered for 16 On an awards ceremony that celebrated their accomplishments throughout the school year. Pictured: Colleen Yezzi ’19, 2018 recipient of the Class of 1960, M. Eileen McGill Meko Music Scholarship, with Dr. Caviston, M. Eileen McGill Meko ’60, and S. Kathleen Brabson, SSJ.
Spring Sports News
Go Mount
Lightweight8+ at City Championships
CREW Head Coach: Megan Kennedy ’92 (19th season) Team Accomplishments:
• Stotesbury Cup Champions in the Lightweight 8+ and Junior 8+ • SRAA Nationals Champions in the Lightweight 8+ • Won, for the 17th consecutive year, the Brigantine Trophy (Team Points, Women’s Sweep) for the Philadelphia Scholastic Rowing Association (PSRA) spring 2018 season. Saratoga Invitational: Novice 8+B: Bronze Novice 8+A: Silver Freshmen 8+: Gold Lightweight 8+: Gold (Saturday) Lightweight 8+: Silver (Sunday)
Stotesbury Cup Regatta: Freshmen 8+: Silver Junior 8+: Gold Lightweight 8+: Gold Varsity 8+: Silver Second Varsity 8+: Bronze
Philadelphia City Championships: Novice 8+A: Fourth Novice 8+B: Bronze Freshmen 8+: Gold Junior 4+B: Fifth Junior 4+A: Silver Junior 8+: Gold Lightweight 8+: Gold Second Varsity 8+: Silver Varsity 8+: Fourth
SRAA Nationals Regatta: Freshmen 8+: Fourth Junior 8+: Silver Lightweight 8+: Gold. National Champions! U.S. Rowing Youth National Championships Lightweight 8+: First in the petite final Reading Amateur Regatta Junior 8+: Gold, Women’s Senior B 8+ 3V: Gold, Women’s Senior C 8+ Henley Women’s Regatta Junior 8+: Semi-finalists in Junior 8+ event 3V: Quarter-finalists in Junior 8+ event Senior 8+: Quarter-finalists in Aspirational Academic 8+ event mount saint joseph academy
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LACROSSE Head Coach: Jim Sheedy (2nd season) Overall Record: 10-8 League Record: 7-5 League Finisher: 3rd Captains: Cara Ann Sheedy ’18, Meredith Rickers ’18,
Liz Meister ’19, Erica Brocato ’19
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Summer 2018
AACA ALL STARS: Cara Ann Sheedy, Liz Meister, Erica Brocato District 1 AA Tournament: 12th seed Team Accomplishments:
• Cara Ann Sheedy scored her 100th goal • The team made District Quarterfinals
SOFTBALL Head Coach: Mike Leinheiser (1st Season) Assistant Coaches: Bob Keating, Mike Horgan and Kevin Pomian (JV) Overall Record: 8-9 League Record: 8-5 League Finisher: Second Place (Advanced to District 1 – 5A Playoffs) Team Captains: Danielle Hughes ’18, Lila Moore ’18, Kailyn Muhl ’19 AACA ALL STARS: Lila Moore, Lily Doyle ’19, Kailyn Muhl,
Paige Parisi ’20
Season Recap: The softball team finished in 2nd place in league play for
the third straight year and moved on to the District 1 - 5A playoffs as the 7th power-ranked seed out of 23 teams. The team was led throughout the season by the four league all-stars along with great hitting and defensive play. Senior Lila Moore (Co-Defensive Player of the Year), juniors Lily Doyle and Kailyn Muhl (Co-Defensive Player of the Year) and sophomore Paige Parisi (Offensive Player of the Year) bolstered the team lineup, hitting over .400 as a group with an over .500 on-base percentage and a slugging percentage over .600 while playing outstanding defense in the field. Sophomore Paige Parisi (all 8 wins) anchored the pitching staff once again this year and pitched in all but three games. While senior team captains Danielle Hughes (Coaches’ Award Winner) and Lila Moore will move on from this year’s team, there is plenty of returning talent and a group of talented incoming freshmen. The team looks to head into next year as one of the favorites to win the Catholic Academy League!
TRACK Head Coach: Kitty McClernand (8th Season) Overall Record: 7-2 League Finisher: 4th Team Captains: Jen DeGroat ’18, Molly Higgins ’18,
Grace DiGiovanni ’18, Jean Reilly ’18
AACA ALL STARS:
• 4x800: Ryan Good ’19, Emily Carr ’21, Lauren Ehnow ’18, Maeve Gallagher ’18 • 100, 200, 400: Annie Lemelin ’21 • 800: Megan Ciasullo ’19 • High jump: Kelly Rothenberg ’20 • High jump: Margaux Rawson ’21 • Pole vault: Bridget Joyce ’19
mount saint joseph academy
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LACED IN LEGACY
Living the Mission
New Str ategic Plan for Mount Saint Joseph Academy
In 2017, the Board of Directors of Mount Saint Joseph Academy began the process of creating a new strategic plan for the academy. This action was prompted by two factors. The first was attainment of the goals outlined in the former strategic plan, Designing Our Future, which was created in 2011. The second was to ensure that the mission of the Sisters of Saint Joseph will always be at the foundation of the academy as it grows into the future. In other words, to assure that the Mount is always “Laced in Legacy” and “Living the Mission.” True to the innovation and drive of the founding Sisters of Saint Joseph, the Mount’s Board of Directors and committee members underwent a nontraditional approach to develop this unique new strategic plan. To guide these highly dedicated individuals, the Mount invited Sister Carol Zinn, SSJ, consultant for Plante Moran, to provide an overview of the methodology for the planning process. Sister introduced the group to a TED Talk called Getting to the Why hosted by author, motivational speaker, and organizational consultant Simon Sinek, that demonstrated the importance of valuing the “why” of what we do over the “how” and the “what”. (This TED Talk is available on YouTube.) After a year of deep conversations and thoughtful prayer, the new strategic plan for the Board of Directors was finalized. This new plan has four overarching themes with roots in the mission of the Sisters of Saint Joseph. These themes are: Sustaining the Mission, Shaping the Future, Inspiring Inclusivity and Unity, and Cultivating Engagement. Within each theme are there specific goals, objectives and strategies that will ensure that the Mount is always functioning from the “why.” Here are the goals and objectives of the plan. A complete plan, including the strategies to support these goals and objectives, will be available on the Mount’s website later this summer at www.msjacad.org/about.
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Summer 2018
SHAPING THE FUTURE GOAL:
SUSTAINING THE MISSION
Invite and encourage leadership, compassion and academic excellence through intellectual exploration, collaboration and creativity.
GOAL:
OBJECTIVES:
Assure the mission, vision and core values of the Sisters of Saint Joseph are always the foundation and motivation in choosing leadership, making decisions, forming policies and planning the future of Mount Saint Joseph Academy. OBJECTIVE:
• Broaden integration experiences for the Board of Directors, and other key constituents to further develop their understanding of and commitment to the mission of the Sisters of Saint Joseph.
• Uphold our status as a state-of-the-art institution with dynamic academics, modern technology and diverse student services for young women to develop the knowledge and skills necessary in their pursuit of transformational education and excellence. • Enhance student access and success while optimizing enrollment.
The elements of this strategic plan will ensure that the mission of the Sisters of Saint Joseph will remain at the heart of a Mount education, and allow the Mount to grow and cultivate relationships while moving forward.
CULTIVATING ENGAGEMENT GOALS:
INSPIRING INCLUSIVITY AND UNITY GOAL:
Continue to extend our commitment to social, economic and academic diversity by nurturing mutuality and respect. OBJECTIVES:
• Ensure that the Mount is the first choice of potential students and their families who will advance the mission of the Sisters of Saint Joseph and the Academy as members of the Mount community. • Maintain and enhance a safe, welcoming, and sustainable environment that cultivates community engagement, as well as the spiritual, academic, athletic, artistic, and social development of our students.
1. Advance, sustain and steward resources to ensure the continued financial health of the Academy. 2. Strengthen vital relationships within the Mount community and with the “dear neighbor” through presence, service, hospitality, conversation and cooperation. OBJECTIVES:
• Increase our ability to meet and sustain future priorities by identifying and implementing new, creative funding models and organizational practices. • Engage all members of the Mount community in positive and meaningful ways to deepen their presence with the mission, invest in relationships, and promote diversity.
mount saint joseph academy
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Con gratulations to M argaret Murphy, Valedictorian of the Class of 2018.
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or the students past and present who have walked our halls, congregated in the Magic Shoppe, laughed through lunch in Fontbonne, or otherwise experienced the Mount, no explanation is necessary to convey the truly unique essence of our sisterhood. To anyone beyond that circle, however, no explanation can entirely suffice. Describing the invisible, intangible latticework that ties the members of the Mount community together is the daunting task that I will humbly attempt today. For four years, the members of our class have listened to innumerable speeches, each interwoven with symbolism more profound than the next. To us, lace, stars, unity, and reconciliation are words that contain so much more than letters. Each one holds deeper significance than it does in the literal sense. One symbol hidden in plain sight, however, untouched by our writers and orators is “the Mount” itself. From the moment of our very foundation in 1858, our school has been affectionately known as “the Mount.” To tell you simply that we were named for our location on a hill is to oversimplify the significance of the title bestowed on us by the Sisters of Saint Joseph. Especially in Biblical times, ancient peoples understood that a name expressed the essence of its carrier. In the Book of Proverbs, Chapter twenty-two, Verse one, King Solomon wrote, “A good name is more desirable than great riches.” One’s name, more than any title or reputation, identifies the character of the one who bears it. The Sisters of Saint Joseph understood in 1858, as we understand today, the great responsibility that accompanies the naming of an institution and the powerful name “the Mount” would one day be. “To mount,” by definition, is to rise to an elevated position, especially for purposes of example, display, or study, an apt description of our four-year journey through Mount Saint Joseph Academy. A student of Mount Saint Joseph Academy is a singular star in an otherwise dark night. She is a lamp that is not to be hidden under a bushel basket. She is a city on a hill to a lost and weary traveler. She is a founder, on whom the future of society largely depends. A student of Mount Saint Joseph Academy is not content to reach the summit of her climb and rest to look down upon the less fortunate masses. Instead, with the unique charism of the Sisters of Saint Joseph, she recognizes her elevation not as an advantage but as an unparalleled opportunity to give back to the “dear neighbor.” Using her education, a Mountie leads by example and aids others as they climb to their own God-given potential. Passed down from the earliest days of the six original sisters in Le Puy, France, this spirit is the core of our identity as a community. It washes over and courses through us like a wave as we celebrate the cherished traditions that have distinguished our sisterhood for one hundred sixty years. On our freshman retreat, we participated in our first of many traditions as we lifted our eyes toward the lofty arches of the Motherhouse Chapel, finding ourselves wonderstruck by golden stars scattered across an indigo ceiling. On Founders’ Day, for four years, we returned our gazes to the individual star that we claimed as our own. Today, on this bittersweet day of our graduation, we need not tilt back our heads in search of our stars. Rather, we look around ourselves and realize, perhaps even for the very first time, that the sisters who surround us have proven as dependable as the constellations themselves. Each and every single one of us glows with varying degrees of warmth, brightness, and strength that make each of us our own, irreplaceable revelations of God in our school community. I cannot imagine a more fitting occasion to thank God for His presence than graduation. Our final gathering together accentuates one of His greatest gifts to our class, the gift of one another. Certainly, we must also extend our heartfelt gratitude to our parents and our families, and to the administration, faculty, and staff gathered today. You have served as a loving and steadfast foundation and support for the graduating Class of 2018 during the course of our education at Mount Saint Joseph Academy. Today, graduation marks our arrival at the base of the next mountain we are destined to conquer: college. As we disperse today in pursuit of higher education, we know that the entire Mount community stands behind us, eagerly awaiting the opportunity to aid their “dear neighbors,” our graduating class, in the uphill battles we will inevitably face. Know that whatever lies ahead, the hills and valleys we have traversed together thus far have given us the experience necessary to conquer those obstacles in the future. Class of 2018, we have finally reached that “elevated position of example, display, and study,” for which Mount Saint Joseph Academy was so aptly named. Now that we have completed this journey, let us take a moment to pause and recognize the blessings we have enjoyed on a climb that has made the view from its summit so bittersweet.
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Summer 2018
Gr aduation
mount saint joseph academy
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Summer 2018
Con gratulations,
Mount St. Joseph Academy Class of 2018! *Honors
** Distinguished Honors
+ National Honor Society
Cassidy Rose Abdalla**+ Rowan University
Ciara Amber DeMelo West Chester University of Pennsylvania
Liana Theresa Alcaro**+ University of Pennsylvania Diocesan Academic Honors Convocation
Nora Donnelly Denton Temple University
Sahar H. Ali West Chester University of Pennsylvania Cartier Martinique Allen Clark Atlanta University Cathryn Jane Antonacio The University of Alabama Erica Anne Arnold**+ Georgetown University Diocesan Academic Honors Convocation Finalist, National Merit Scholarship Program Mallory Shae Baus**+ Tufts University Commended Student, National Merit Scholarship Program Erin Elizabeth Bethel+ Saint Joseph’s University Julianna Marie Birch Temple University
Courteney Joan Derrah+ The Pennsylvania State University Julia Kathryn DeWitt**+ Temple University Grace Frances DiGiovanni Quinnipiac University Mia Wynn DiGregorio*+ University of Delaware Grace Olivia Dina+ University of Pittsburgh Megan Elizabeth Dodaro*+ University of Pittsburgh Nora Kathleen Dougherty University of Rhode Island Taylor Elizabeth Draganosky*+ University of Delaware Kaitlin Grace Eney Temple University
Bridget Marie Boyle*+ Saint Joseph’s University
Christine Ann Faust West Chester University of Pennsylvania
Haley Rose Brennan University of South Carolina
Kerry Elizabeth Faust Saint Joseph’s University
Olivia Hunt Brogan+ The Catholic University of America
Madison Barnes Feeney*+ Franklin & Marshall College
London Cion Butler Bloomsburg University
Zoe Grace Ferraro Loyola University New Orleans
Nina Sook Chae-Gordon*+ New York University
Emma Grace Ferrero Loyola University Maryland
Katelynn Nicole Clement Rochester Institute of Technology
Corinne Elizabeth Filograna**+ Loyola University Maryland
Samantha Ashley Cordero University of Miami
Elena Katherine Filograna**+ Haverford College
Madeline Rose Curran**+ University of Delaware
Julia Rose Flynn**+ Temple University Commended Student, National Merit Scholarship Program
Colleen Marie Daly*+ University of Connecticut Jennifer Ann DeGroat*+ Loyola University Maryland
Mariele Hope Ford Rowan University Annie Quinn Fowler+ Eckerd College mount saint joseph academy
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2018 Fournier Medal Recipient:
Robbie Brennan Hain
Mother Saint John Fournier, the Founder of Mount Saint Joseph Academy, was a woman of high ideals, courage and commitment. The Fournier Medal is awarded each year to an individual who exemplifies the spirit of Mother Saint John through distinguished service and loyalty to the Mount. Robbie’s long and enduring relationship with the Sisters of Saint Joseph began at Norwood-Fontbonne Academy with her work in Development. This association deepened when she and her husband, George, decided to send their daughters, Courtney ’05 and Jacqueline ’08, to the Mount. Robbie has given selflessly to the Sisters of Saint Joseph and Mount Saint Joseph Academy. She has just completed her term as chair of the Board of Directors and has served on the Development committee; in both roles, the excellence we profess in our mission statement was seen in her thoughtful and conscientious approach to her work. She was remarkable in taking the lead in developing our strategic plan, as she exhibited our core values of collaboration, inclusivity, and relationship building. Her vision inspires confidence, and her commitment to our mission can only enhance the good work of shaping the future of the Mount. We are grateful for Robbie’s expertise and dedication to the Mount.
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Summer 2018
Elizabeth Suzanne Friel The Pennsylvania State University
Julia Marie Lutz Temple University
Madeleine Eve Getty**+ The Pennsylvania State University
Erin Nicole MacMahon University of Maryland
Grace Patricia Gillespie*+ La Salle University
Bridget Grace Malott University of Pittsburgh
Margaret Anne Gorman James Madison University
Mary Anna Mancini Temple University
Courtney Elizabeth Gorsuch University of the Sciences
Aileen Erin Mansfield Ohio University
Katherine Elizabeth Hallahan University of Minnesota
Kennedy Simone McClelland*+ University of Miami
Karsen Ann Healy*+ Boston University
Maeve Long McCormick**+ University of Richmond
Carly Marie Hemcher The Pennsylvania State University
Kathryn Rose McLane Loyola University Maryland
Molly Catharine Higgins The University of Scranton
Anna Grace Meko*+ Saint Joseph’s University
Casai Alon High Hampton University
Lauren Agnes Mezzanotte*+ Saint Joseph’s University
Caroline Allyson Hladik The Pennsylvania State University
Emma Mirabelli**+ Lehigh Univeristy Diocesan Academic Honors Convocation
Sarah Elizabeth Hodgson*+ New York University Danielle Jo Hughes**+ Villanova University
Kathryn Rose Mokrynski**+ Sciences Po Columbia University Dual BA Program Finalist, National Merit Scholarship Program
Faith Marie Hughes*+ The Pennsylvania State University
Ashley Dawson Moore The University of Scranton
Rasha A. Jalel*+ Drexel University
Lila Colleen Moore*+ The Pennsylvania State University
Jessica Cunalata Jha**+ Drexel University Archdiocesan Scholar
Ciara Kelly Morrissey Clemson University
Lillian Marie Kennedy*+ The University of Scranton Meredith Joy Killian*+ The Pennsylvania State University Jade Victoria Killion*+ Clemson University Rebecca Ann Koestler+ Fordham University Alexann Margaret Konyk+ Villanova University Jennifer Marie Kuczborski Thomas Jefferson University
Mollie Grace Mullen*+ University of Delaware Margaret Mary Murphy**+ University of Notre Dame Gabriela Marie Natale University of Tennessee Jacquelyn Maryanna Nyzio*+ Elon University Mary Elizabeth Pappert+ Villanova University Isabel Rose Parsons*+ Franklin & Marshall College
Claudia Elizabeth Langella+ The New School
Ella Caroline Patackis**+ The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Commended Student, National Merit Scholarship Program
Rose Meng Ju Leonard*+ The Pennsylvania State University
Rebecca Ashley Patti*+ Fairfield University
Emily Ann Little**+ Villanova University
Brynn Wagner Pelletier The University of Alabama mount saint joseph academy
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Hope Michael Placotaris*+ DeSales University
Grace Elizabeth Sowa+ University of Maryland
Anne Marie Princivalle+ The Pennsylvania State University
Riley Elizabeth Stack*+ The Pennsylvania State University
Megan Elizabeth Prue*+ Purdue University
Mary Katherine Stefanowicz*+ Bucknell University
Grace Katherine Quinones*+ University of Miami
Elizabeth Frances Sullivan Denison University
Deirdre Maureen Regan Temple University
Nanine Grace Taglianetti**+ University of Pittsburgh
Brenna Colleen Reilly*+ Saint Joseph’s University
Madelyn Grace Taylor**+ University of Notre Dame Diocesan Academic Honors Convocation Finalist, National Merit Scholarship Program
Jean Adelaide Reilly*+ Villanova University Alexandra Nobleza Reyes**+ College of William & Mary Commended Student, National Merit Scholarship Program Meredith Margaret Rickers*+ University of San Diego Francesca Catherine Rowe*+ Temple University Kelly Lin Ryan**+ Saint Joseph’s University Archdiocesan Scholar
Maya Xilonen Trujillo**+ University of Pennsylvania Audrey Grace Trullinger+ Elon University Lily Margaret Tubman*+ Syracuse University Caitlyn Anne Vesey*+ Fordham University
Bailey Tess Schleeper Chestnut Hill College
Holly Ann Vitello*+ College of the Holy Cross
Abigail Rose Schwenger*+ University of Miami
Mary Grace Wallis*+ University of Virginia
Kelly Noll Shearman Saint Joseph’s University
Madelyn Kathryn Walsh*+ University of Tennessee
Cara Anne Sheedy*+ Syracuse University
Natalie Ann Ward**+ University of Pittsburgh Diocesan Academic Honors Convocation
Sophia Marie Sithya**+ Temple Univeristy Mary Margaret Skobieranda**+ Villanova University
Summer 2018
Grace Marie Tinneny Temple University
Madison Mary Sandquist**+ University of Miami
Alexa Marie Silvestri*+ Villanova University
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Isabella Rose Tighe Temple Univeristy
Erin Cassidy Warth University of Rhode Island Ailene Maren Woznicki**+ Elon University
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The Mount Community Did It Again! Thank you to everyone who supported the Mount Fund this year! Your generosity, coupled with an understanding of how vital the fund is to the education of our students, was the reason we exceeded our $550,000 goal and raised $672,322! The collective gifts of the community allow current students to continue their rich education immersed in the tradition of the Sisters of Saint Joseph. Our Alumnae Association issued 1,000 donor challenge to our alumnae base. The total number of alumnae who donated was 1,062. Because of your generosity, our students will continue to learn from outstanding faculty, with state-of-the-art classroom technology and experiences. Because of you and your investments in the Mount Fund, even more financial aid will be available to deserving young women, making access to a Mount education a reality. Your donation also solidifies events beyond the classroom, fortifying MSJA’s athletics and arts programs, extra-curricular activities, and service initiatives. Thank you again for your commitment to “serving the dear neighbor” and providing opportunities and enrichment for our students!
Incoming Scholars R eception
In early May, students from the Class of 2022 who received scholarships attended a reception at the Mount. Students and their families were welcomed by S. Kathleen Brabson, SSJ and Mount faculty. Congratulations to all of our incoming scholars!
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Turf Field R eception Alumnae, current and past parents, and friends gathered on May 15 for a reception celebrating the Mount’s new multipurpose turf field. The state-of-the-art field will give Mount athletes a competitive advantage. Ground broke in early April, and the project continues throughout the summer, with a scheduled completion ahead of the fall 2018 sports season. For progress on our turf field initiative, or to make a donation, please visit msjacad.org/turf.
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H arvest Club Dinner In early May, parents, alumnae, and friends of the Mount gathered at the academy to celebrate the annual Harvest Club Dinner. The evening honored individuals who gave to the Mount Fund at the Purple & Gold or Harvest Club levels, and who volunteered their time at the Mount during the 2017-18 school year.
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letter from the
A LU M N A E A S S O C I AT I O N
E S T. 1 8 9 5
A lumnae Board President
Dear alumnae, families, and friends of the Mount community: Charles Bowden, an American author, wrote that “summertime is always the best of what might be.” For me, Bowden’s words are a perfect description of summer. While my own school days are now (goodness) decades behind me, I still, somehow, mark the passage of time in school years. Summer is the space between: a gift of time to reflect, to plan, and to prepare to begin again in the fall. It’s a time to feel all the potential and possibility of the upcoming year. This summer, the Alumnae Board will spend time reflecting on the work that we have done over the past school year. We are providing more opportunities for alumnae to connect than ever before. More than once throughout the year, at both Mount Meet-Ups and our professional development events, we’ve met alums who are reconnecting with the Mount for the first time since graduation. Additionally, record numbers of alumnae have answered the call to provide financial stewardship of our cherished school, including many alums who gave to the Mount Fund for the first time. As we reflect, we’ll also be mindful of “the best of what might be.” Our effort is not complete. Our smart and creative Board has another school year to work together. Over the summer, we’ll make plans that build on the accomplishments of this year to create more impact in the coming year and beyond. We offer our heartfelt thanks to all the alumnae who connected this year. And, as we have all year, we remind all of our fellow Mounties that there is always another seat at the table for you. We welcome your ideas and your passion. Please join us to make the Alumnae Association “the best of what might be.” Erin McClafferty Erfle ’96
CLASS AGENTS 1948 1949 1950 1952 1955 1956 1958 1959 1960 1961 1962 1963 1965 1966 1967 1968 1969 1970 1971 1972 1973 1974 1975
Mary Merz Berko JoAnne Skelly Dougherty Patricia Connor Surotchak Lorraine Sukalski McGlynn Kathy McGee Burns Dorothy Gallagher Hordubay Joyce Renzulli Wuenschel Jody M. Scott Kyle Eileen McGill Meko Joan Smith Agostinelli, Ellen Higley O’Neill Mary McFadden Paul Julie Meis Wilson Nina Schweikart Love Mary Lorenzo-Brelsford, Peggy Gallagher Donna Cupo Lucas Pamela Meitner Ann Marie Von Hacht Horner Maureen Cahill, Ginny Bendinger Wischhusen Cyndy Strolle Suzanne Fitzmeyer Foley Colleen Durkin Lapowsky Patricia Zugay Burkholder Rosemary Kenny Kruse, Marianne Ford
1976 Becky Hoy Murphy, Ave Murphy Seminack 1977 Jennifer Lee Busto, Ellen Burgoyne Hubrig 1978 Ellen Riley Biel, Mary Ann Szczensy Daulerio 1981 Jennifer Maguire Princivalle 1982 Ellen Rosa-Bian Cericola 1983 Dr. Angel Stout 1984 Kim Heck Cilio 1985 Sharon Branca, Jill Marshall Curry 1986 Courtney Daly Ferrero, Patty Lynch, Marci Kutler Bossow Schankweiler 1988 Heather Kates Kelly, Suzanne Coster McCarthy 1989 Kirsten Ledwith Morasco Heather McKenna-Tausz 1990 Jen Dorazio Klein, Colleen Osborne Mook 1991 Kathleen Gorman Duffy, Jennifer Adams Phillips 1992 Rochelle A. Grasso 1993 Tracy Allu Albertelli 1994 Danielle Panzarella Lasky, Amy Kaltneckar Dixon 1996 Karen Mullane Bronster, Erin McClafferty Erfle 1997 Joan Elizabeth King Cavallaro, Katie Griffin
1998 Christina Carnevale Kaufmann 1999 Kara McMahon Weaver, Liz Harris 2000 Bobbi Tumelty Kelly, Lauren O’Garro Moore 2001 Emily DePaul, Julia Rocchi 2002 Caroline Harkins Gorman 2003 Charlotte Merrick 2004 Katherine Pichola Ineson, Beth Bonnevie 2005 Katie McClernand Sacchetta 2006 Kerry Roman Columbro, Kathleen Hubbert McOrmond 2007 Elizabeth DePaul, Dana Puleo 2008 Alicia Elliott, Claire Kueny 2009 Corin Roman, Kristen Cericola 2010 Katy Gregor, Alanna McCloy 2011 Leigh Anne Tiffany, Michele Burns 2012 Molly McLaughlin 2013 Kiera McCloy, Annie Tenzinger 2014 Sheila McLaughline, Rachel Basiura 2015 Colleen McBride, Katie Mars 2016 Jacklyn LeVito 2017 Marianna Glacken, Kathryn Murphy 2018 Madison Feeney, Danielle Hughes mount saint joseph academy
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ARCHIVES From the A rchives We have asked our volunteers in the Mount’s archives, Madge Mansell Keehn ’50 and Eileen McGill Meko ’60, to feature an item from the archives in issues of Mount Magazine. Take a tour through Mount history in each issue! On June 2, 2018, 126 young women wearing traditional Grecian gowns and carrying bouquets of yellow roses accepted their diplomas at the 159th graduation ceremonies from Mount Saint Joseph Academy. Since the school was founded in 1858, why wasn’t this the 160th graduation? And when were Grecian gowns first introduced? Turning to the Mount’s archives, we learned that the school was still completing its inaugural year as the “Female Academy of Mount Saint Joseph, Chestnut Hill, Philadelphia,” when it presented its First Annual Exhibition (present day commencement) on July 16, 1859. According to a story in the 1930 edition of the Alumnae News magazine, the Exhibition was held at the Middleton mansion, the original site of the academy. The arriving attendees remarked that “through the hanging vines of the portico they caught glimpses of white robes (precursors of the current Grecian gowns which have been worn since 1904) and bright faces intermingled with the musical sounds of Stars and Stripes”. Noting the probable presence of Mother Saint John Fournier, the article explained that she was the first Superior of the Sisters of Saint Joseph in Philadelphia and founder of Mount Saint Joseph Academy. Bishop Neumann, (now Saint John Neumann), spoke kindly and encouragingly to the students before he distributed the premiums to them and gave his blessing. After noting that he found the “commencement” a very pleasing and creditable affair, the author concluded by saying he was “much touched by the kind hospitality of the Sisters of Saint Joseph” and wished them “every success in their undertaking.” “They are sowing the seed of pure motives and unostentatious piety. We pray Almighty God to give the increase.” And so the tradition continues. “Spes messis in semine.”
Mount RUNWAY 2018 WHEN: WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2018 6:00 PM WHERE: WHITEMARSH VALLEY COUNTRY CLUB LAFAYETTE HILL, PA Fashions provided by
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ONLINE REGISTRATION OPENS IN SEPTEMBER!
A lumnae Awards
The 4th class of Mount Saint Joseph Academy’s Athletic Hall of Fame Victoria Arena ’07 As a student at the Mount, Victoria Arena played varsity golf for all four years and captained the team in her senior year. Victoria’s golf honors during her high school years are many: • Four-year league champion and four-year 1st team all-academies • Two-time PIAA District 1 Champion • PA girls State Golf Individual Champion (junior year), and the first state individual champion in Mount’s history • Part of the first state TEAM champion in Mount history and member of the first Pennsylvania girls’ state golf TEAM champion in PIAA history (prior to 2006, only the boys’ teams played for the title). • In 2007, Victoria was nationally ranked at 53 and 1st in Pennsylvania as the junior girl golfer • Competed in 27 National golf tournaments. Following graduation, Victoria golfed for four years at Penn State University, where she was named NCAA/National Golf Coaches Association All-American Scholar.
2008 3A State Basketball Team The 2008 3A Pennsylvania State Basketball Champions were a group of 18 athletes dedicated to the sport of basketball but, more importantly, to each other. This team was a group of girls who knew each other’s strengths and weaknesses and complimented each other on and off the court. With unselfish teamwork, hard work, and determination, they achieved a state championship. This team as a whole brought a sense of community, pride, and school spirit to the entire Mount family. Team members inducted were Ryann Gallagher ’08 (captain), Laura Johnson ’08 (captain), Sarah McGorry ’08 (captain), Alexa Buchanan ’08, Genevieve Dusing ’08, Claire Kueny ’08, Liz Malazita ’08, Maureen Gribb ’09, Elle Hagedorn ’09, Megan Rothwell ’09, Jennifer Sabia ’09, Tara Barr ’10, Mary Jo Horgan ’11, and Stephanie Smith ’11. Individual accomplishments: • Five of those 18 players became 1,000-point scorers during their time at the Mount: Laura Johnson, Sarah McGorry, Elle Hagedorn, Stephanie Smith, and Mary Jo Horgan. • Seven of the 18 athletes went on to play at Harvard University, Princeton University, Loyola University Maryland, Lehigh University, Lafayette College, and Catholic University of America, and Juniata College.
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Alumnae Awards continued
The 2018 Rosemary McNally Award was presented to Heather Kates Kelly ’88. Heather has given many hours, days and years in support of every aspect of the Mount: as an Alumnae Board Member, active member of the Parent’s Association, Celebrauction Committee, Golf Committee and Special Events Committee. She is most deserving of this award. The Academy is grateful for her many years of service and her belief in the mission of educating young women.
The 2018 Alumnae Hall of Fame Award was presented to Mary Merz Berko ’48. Mary’s award was presented by her daughters, Susan Berko Glass ’71 and Liz Berko Guenther ‘74. Mary has served in many capacities over the years: Class Representative, Alumnae Board member, Board of Directors member, and is a past president of the Board. She is still currently serving on the Board of Directors.
Reunion
APRIL 14, 2018 1968
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Alumnae Induction The Class of 2018 was officially inducted into the MSJA Alumnae Association on May 23. Alumnae mothers and grandmothers of graduating seniors were invited to attend and distribute commemorative pins to seniors during the ceremony. The celebration continued outside, with food trucks from Chickie’s and Pete’s and Mister Softee. As seniors ate, they browsed their new yearbooks and donned their spring uniform skirts, which they decorated with the names and logos of the colleges and universities they will be attending in the fall.
Judith Caviston (Principal); Keran Dierolf Baus ’86 and daughter Mallory; Susanne Hummel DeWitt ’89 and daughter Julia; Kelley Osborne Faust ’87 and daughters Kerry and Christine; Courtney Daly Ferrero ’86 and daughter Emma; Marianne Ford ’75 and daughter Mariele; Patricia Diamond Higgins ’88 and daughter Molly; Barbara Harrington Hladik ’85 and daughter Caroline; Susan Lynch Hughes ’86 and daughter Danielle; Mary Hoffner Kolb ’67 and granddaughter Haley Brennan; Sue Doney Leonard ’80 and daughter Rose; Lorraine Sukalski McGlynn ’52 and granddaughter Hope Placotaris; M. Eileen McGill Meko ’60 and granddaughter Annie; Diane Whelan Moore ’85 and daughter Lila; Jennifer Maguire Princivalle ’81 and daughter Annie; Kathleen Lamprecht Prue ’88 and daughter Megan; Dr. Lauren Barrow Schleeper ’86 and daughter Bailey; Mary Beth Morrissey Stefanowicz ’84 and daughter Mary Katherine; S. Kathleen Brabson, SSJ (President).
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Class Chatter
News and notes from the Mount Saint Joseph Academy alumnae and school community.
1950s
University of Delaware. Betsy and her husband have four great-grandchildren.
Sr. Johanna Gedaka, SSJ ’55 is retired from university teaching but volunteering on a program-by-program basis at the Basilian Spirituality Center in Fox Chase, Pennsylvania, and at Archbishop Wood High School in Warminster, Pennsylvania.
1960s
Sr. Barbara E. Nolan, SSJ ’56 recently retired from Chestnut Hill College after 43 years and is currently a teacher’s aide for Pre-K 3-year-olds at Our Mother of Consolation School in Chestnut Hill, Philadelphia. Laura Jayne McCloskey Uglum ’57 is now a retired Latin teacher and school librarian. Mary Lou Snyder Goldberg ’58 says retirement on the beach in Florida is rejuvenating. She travels to Philadelphia and Alpharetta, Georgia, several times a year to spend time with her children, grandchildren and greatgranddaughter. She also takes a “big trip” with her sister every year either in the U.S. or abroad. She says she is very blessed. Anne (Nancy) Meaney Phillips ’58 is loving retirement! She took a trip to Naples, Florida, in March to visit friends; it was nice to catch up with them. She spends weekends away with her grandchildren. All is good! Betsy Ann Nace Gumprecht ’59 shares that in addition to her twin granddaughters who are now in college, she has welcomed twin greatgrandsons into the family. The boys were born prematurely on July 1, 2017, weighing 3.5 pounds each, but after a period in the Christiana Care NICU in Delaware, they are now thriving sixmonth-olds at 19lbs. each! They have joined their adoring big brother, age 7. Their mother and father both work at
Margaret Anne Norrett Hughes ’60 is still working as an orthopaedic nurse at Ruggiero Orthpaedics. She is loving her grandchildren and she and her husband, Vern, celebrated 49 years of marriage in April. Patricia Miller-Shaivitz ’61 is still living in South Florida. She is retired from full-time teaching and is doing research.
Linda Porretti Morano ’68 shares that in honor of their 45th wedding anniversary, she and her husband will be visiting Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard this summer. She’s retired now and enjoying spending quality time with family, friends, and her delightful grandchildren. Every day is a vacation, every day is an adventure. It is so wonderful to be reunited with my MSJA family. The Class of 1968 is very special and it seems the bond is always there. May God bless us and keep us safe and healthy. Priscilla Mullins Messing ’68 is still living in Boston and recently retired.
Diane Taglialatela Green ’63 splits her time between Naples, Florida and Stone Harbor, New Jersey. She has one son and three grandchildren in Penn Valley, Pennsylvania. She says God is good. Catherine A. Palumbo Santoro ’65 is retired and enjoying being a grandmother to Grace Ann Santoro. Sally Mauchly FitzSimmons ’66 shares that her daughter, Sara FitzSimmons Kelly ’00, is expecting a baby boy this year. He will be her first grandson. She has four granddaughters. Mary Jane Wesner Nolen ’67 is blessed with seven grandchildren, retirement, health, and time to travel. She made it to the 50th Golden Girl lunch but wants to know, “where were my classmates?” Elizabeth Lunney ’68 is enjoying retirement in San Diego, which includes playing a lot of tennis and golf. She gets together periodically with former classmate, Susan Smith Daniels ’68, and former teacher/ coach, Mrs. Tink Rambo. Mrs. Rambo just celebrated her 92nd birthday and is doing extremely well.
Susan Smith Daniels ’68 was happy to attend the 50th Reunion at the Mount. She lives in Iowa and California and is currently working on her Ph.D. in creative writing. Her short story collection, The Genuine Stories, is forthcoming from New Rivers Press in October 2018. Sr. Rosanne Orchon, SSJ ’69 is currently teaching at Our Mother of Sorrows/St. Ignatius Loyola School in Philadelphia.
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1970s
Jenny Brown Shemwell ’86 moved last summer from Maine to Alabama. She has three kids keeping her busy as well as volunteering at a soup kitchen and St. Francis University Parish – Roll Tide. She remains a dedicated stay at home mom, yogi, cook, and community volunteer. Dianne Violi Signoretta, CPA ’86 works part-time at Jebran & Abraham, P.C. as an accountant.
Members of the Class of 1970 recently gathered at the home of Maureen Cahill ’70 for brunch.
Kelley Osborne Faust ’87 wants to thank the entire Mount community for taking such good care of her daughters, Kerry and Christie, who graduated from the Mount in June. God Bless. Joy Jordan ’88 is currently living in Atlanta and is working as an Innovation Leader for the Kimberly Clark Corporation. Nicole Murray ’88 shares that she is the Senior Director of Women’s Denim Design for Jones New York, Kenneth Cole, Ellen Tracy and BEBE, based in New York City.
(PHOTO) Members of the Class of 1972 met for dinner on April 24, 2018 at Jasper’s Backyard in Conshohocken. Pictured from left are Claudia Drennen McCarron, Kathy Waters Owsik, Maureen Maguire Coffey, Pat D’Innocenzo, Lisa Strecker Magarity, Nora Gordon McCullough, Trish Blackburn Sermarini, Kathy Crosson Hylinski, Anne Sabol McDonnell, Gini Mauchly Calcerano, Eileen Rigney Dougherty, Suzanne Fitzmyer Foley, and Mimi Shalitta-Black. M. Eileen Rigney Dougherty ’72 shares that she had a great time at her 45th Mount Reunion. She celebrated her 40th wedding anniversary on May 27, 2018. Yvonne Gisler ’73 has been a Registered Nurse for 36 years and a Family Nurse Practitioner for 17 years. She currently practices in Hospice/ Palliative Care.
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1980s Margaret Watts Waldron ’83 married her senior prom blind date on July 29, 2017 and moved to Virginia.
Suzanne Coster McCarthy ’88 has been teaching private voice and piano lessons for 15 years. She is also the lead music teacher for Llanerch Presbyterian, a preschool in Havertown. She resides in Havertown with her husband, Aran, and her three children; Lauren, 19, recently completed her freshman year at West Virginia University and twins Christian and Julia, 16, are sophomores at Haverford High School.
1990s Coleen Dyer Wybranski ’92 recently spent a winter weekend catching up with Kristen Hunter ’92, Maureen McGinley ’92, and Jenna Franceski Linke ’92 at the Jersey Shore. These “Four Seasons” friends have been together for almost 30 years and look forward to many more fun times together! Jean Bond Brown ’95 shares that for the past few years she has enjoyed being a stay-at-home mom to Katie, 12, Avery, 9, and Veronica, 8, and volunteering at their school, Our Lady of Mercy in Maple Glen.
Kristin Bielski ’98 married Jacob Nickol on August 4, 2017. The ceremony was at St. Matthew’s in Conshohocken. The reception was at the Manor House at Prophecy Creek Park in Blue Bell, PA. Her Mountie bridesmaids were Mary Kate Weber ’98, Kerri Bielski Morris ’01, Nicole Szekeres DiStefano ’98, and Lauren Darby ’98. Also in attendance were Maureen Waters Marchek ’98, Courtney Piper Flora ’98, and Jaclyn Blady Buechele ’98. Susan Garges Silberberg ’98, her husband, Jordan, and son, Zackary, welcomed a daughter, Sienna Amelia, on November 3, 2017. She was named after Susan’s MomMom (Joanne Caruso Garges’s ’64 mother), Amelia Caruso, a phenomenal woman who worked tirelessly so she could send her daughters to the Mount! Katie Paul Mallach ’99 and husband, Kyle, welcomed daughter Leah Mallach on March 7.
Christie Flamm Foley ’97 welcomed her fourth child, Desmond, on her daughter Vivienne’s third birthday! Desmond also joins Leo, 7, and Alex, 4. Julie Creedon Assini ’97 and her husband, Eric, proudly announce the birth of their daughter, Grace Marie, on March 12, 2018. Gracie joins her big brother, Jack Henry, 2.
2000s Susan Kilgore Nieto ’00, husband, Arlex, and three-yearold daughter, Emily Grace, welcomed daughter and little sister Hannah Sofia to the world on January 22, 2018.
Maureen Brady Wasielewski ’00 and her husband, Aaron, welcomed their third child, Gavin James, in January 2018. Corey Raieta Heacock ’00 currently resides in Wilmington, Delaware, with her husband and 3-year-old son. She works as an Assistant Principal at Stanton Middle School. She also serves as a Branch Ambassador for Hike it Baby, a non-profit organization committed to helping families enjoy the outdoors. Katie Horstmann Gibson ’00 is currently living in London with her husband and daughter. Lauren O’GarroMoore ’00 just welcomed her second daughter, Meritt Amelie Brown, on April 30! She measured 6 lbs., 11 oz., and 19 inches. They are all doing well and her big sister Sloane is over the moon that she gets to have a little sister! Two future Mounties! mount saint joseph academy
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Colleen Kelly Miltenberg ’00 says life is wonderful and hectic at the same time! Colleen and her husband, Chris, live in California, right near Stanford University, where he is the Director of Cross-Country/Track and Field. She is a busy stay-at-home mom to four children: Maggie, 7, Kevin, 5, Caitlin, 3, and Annie, 1.
Elizabeth Pendley ’04 married Kevin Costello on September 23, 2017. In attendance were (back, from left): Jill Heinly Baxter ’04, Kara Garrity Liebeskind ’04, Jackee Nowicke Mohl ’04, Christina Moran-O’Brien ’04, and Meredith Rice ’04. Front, from left: Ponney Palanisamy ’04, Marissa Smith ’04, Laura Reardon Deeney ’04 and Anna Pendley Cardellino ’02.
Katie Delaney Price ’06 married Tyler Price in 2016 in Philadelphia and lives in Ardmore, Pennsylvania. She works as a Certified Child Life Specialist at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia on the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit.
Mary Diamond Bartges ’00 enjoyed a family beach vacation in Sea Isle City in August 2017 with her husband, Troy, and son, Daniel Patrick, 3. Danielle Kidd Muenzfeld ’04 and her husband, Peter, announce the April 2018 birth of their children, Caroline and Henry. They join older sister, Elizabeth. Caitlin Sullivan Matje ’05 and her husband Eric welcomed a baby girl, Emma Rose Matje, on February 1, 2018. She weighed 8 lbs, 1oz.
Amanda Benincasa ’08 married Matt Kelly at St. Pius X Church in Broomall, Pennsylvania on April 27. The reception was held at the Ballroom at Ellis Preserve in Newtown Square.
Back row, from left: Rosemary Salvo (Student Academic Coach, Guidance), Maryanne Coyle (former MSJA staff), Amy Balcer (Director of Guidance), Donna Boyle (Admin. Assistant to the Principal and Dean of Studies), Bridget Horan ’16, Megan Kelley ’15, Anne Hoffman (Foreign Language teacher), S. Kathleen Brabson, SSJ (President). Front row, from left: Dr. Judith Caviston (Principal), Emily Benincasa ’15, Lydia Thomas (Administrative Assistant to the Dean of Students). 34
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Christina Kolokithias Krone ’05 and her husband, Ben, welcomed their first child, Madelyn Grace Krone, on November 25, 2017. Anna Cero Perez ’06 completed her architecture exams and is now a licensed architect. Kathryn L. Kirsch ’07 received her Ph.D. in mechanical engineering from Penn State University in December 2017. Laura Monaco ’08 is graduating from Drexel University College of Medicine with a doctorate in medicine. She will be pursuing residency at Lehigh Valley Health Network.
2010s Wesley Shane ’10 is finishing up her second year of medical school in South Carolina. Lauren Duda ’10 Lauren continues her career in communications for Lockheed Martin out in Denver. She’s recently traded in rockets and spacecraft for lasers and combat ships after taking a new role in digital marketing, social media and advertising for the company. She and her longtime boyfriend, Andrew Chambers, continue to enjoy all the outdoor activities Colorado has to offer!
Courtney Hogan ’11 was a finalist for the Professional Women in Advocacy 2017 Excellence in Advocacy Award in the category of Excellence in Advocacy by an Up and Coming Practitioner. She is currently the Government Affairs Manager for the Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council (PIJAC) and lives in Washington, D.C.
Michele Burns ’11 got engaged at the grotto at her college alma mater and is getting married next year! Marianna Rose Glacken ’17 shares congratulations to the Class of 2017 on making it through the first year of college!
Do you have chatter to share? We enjoy hearing from you about various achievements, announcements and other important milestones in your life! Please submit class notes online at www.msjacad.org/classchatter
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Our sympathy and prayers are extended to the families of the following alumnae: Marguerite Reynolds Beston ’50, sister-in-law of Joan Calhoun Reynolds ’50, aunt of Susan Reynolds Antczak ’74 and Anne Reynolds DiPasquale ’85 Maria DeCenzo Brown ’63, mother of Amy Brown Tkach ’95 Patricia Ann Kelso Eckert ’49 Frances Doyne Folger ’66, sister of Mary Doyne Appicello ’59 Mary Hoy Gibson ’73
Mary Isabel Lambert Glenn ’57, cousin of Margaret Smith Spence ’62 Joan Marie Bryan Logan ’64, sister of Alice Bryan Goetz ’65 and aunt of Rose Bryan Welsh ’94 Dolores McDevitt (former MSJA faculty) Rita Lawson Moser ’41 Victoria Fengler Segovia ’53, sister of Anne Marie Fengler Triolo ’53
Rosemary Harvey Smith ’65 Margaret Watts Waldron ’83 Eleanor “Nora” Waters ’73, daughter of Kathleen Rhoads Waters ’52, sister of Kathy Waters Owsik ’72, niece of S. Grace Rhoads, RGS ’49 and Judith Rhoads Morris ’59 (deceased) and aunt of Carly Hill Page ’00, Sandra Hill ’04, Melissa Waters ’09, Brenda Waters ’10, Paula Hill ’10, and Alison Waters ’13
In Memoriam
Our sympathy and prayers are extended to the families of the following alumnae, students, and members of the Mount community: Bonnie Balcer (MSJA faculty) on the death of her mother, Margaret L. Duffy Rosemary Kund Bogan ’80 and Rosemary Reilly Kund ’48 (deceased) on the death of Richard Kund, their father and husband respectively Michele Breznicky Brinkerhoff ’98, Colleen Breznicky Parfitt ’00 and Lindsay Breznicky ’08 on the death of their uncle, Timothy Charles McGowan Maria Brigidi ’17 on the death of her grandmother, Mary Pettinato Colleen Coyle Broderick ’74 and Kelly Broderick Smith ’03 on the death of Joan Smith Coyle, their mother and grandmother, respectively.
Margaret Masturzo Deming ’71, Mercia Masturzo Shoughrue ’62, Susan Masturzo ’73, Mary Masturzo Kreiser ’71 and Marie Masturzo ’08, on the death of David Deming, their husband, brother-in-law and uncle respectively. Dr. Monica Duvall DiLella ’88 on the death of her brother-in-law, Joseph M. DiLella Christine Flamm Foley ’97 on the death of her father, Walter H. Flamm Loretta Devery Ingalls ’06 and Genevieve Dusing ’08 on the death of their grandfather, James J. Devery Megan Zakrzewski Kletzel ’04 on the death of her father-in-law, Deacon George W. Kletzel, Jr.
Lorraine DiMino Cavitt ’69, on the death of her Catherine Robb Marston ’60 and Karen Robb Stewart ’64 on the death of William F. father, Augustus “Gus” DiMino Marston, their husband and brother-in-law Celeste Porreca Compton ’70, Corinne respectively Porreca Smelt ’71, Carol Porreca O’Malley Megan Melinson McDonough ’89 and ’74, Alexandra Compton Snyder ’00, Gabrielle MollyKate McDonough ’19 on the death of Compton ’00, Tara Compton ’04 and Jeannie John F. McDonough, their brother-in-law and O’Malley ’07 on the death of Pauline S. uncle, respectively Porreca, their mother and grandmother, respectively Marguerite Barrett McEwen ’50 on the death of her husband, Honorable Stephen J. McEwen, Joanna Dearolf ’08 and Laura Bennett ’21 Jr. on the death of their grandfather, Bernard J. Murphy Aileen Eidenshink Napierkowski ’82 and Lizanne Eidenshink Maher ’84 on the death of Joanne Liberto Delaney ’67 and Marianne their father, Robert F. Eidenshink Liberto ’69 on the death of their mother, Angela M. Liberto Patricia Nyzio Pelletier ’90 on the death of her father, Robert J. Nyzio 36
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Maureen Greenhalgh Ritzheimer ’81, Kathleen Greenhalgh Cunningham’83, Patricia Greenhalgh Magill ’90 and Megan Greenhalgh Patzuk ’94 on the death of their mother, Margaret M. Greenhalgh Jody Romano (MSJA administration) on the death of her mother, Joanne Romano. Abigail Schwenger ’18 on the death of her grandmother, Bernadette C. Caruso Kathleen McBride Shoup ’57 on the death of her brother, Donald J. McBride Phyllis Sullivan Stacy ’53 on the death of her brother, Hobart B. “Bart” Sullivan and her grandson, Matthew Stacy Carl Helene McGuinn Susanin ’71, Catherine McGuinn MacFarland ’76, Patricia McGuinn Ringe ’80, Lizanne McGuinn Christen ’88, Katherine Christen ’19 and Elena Christen ’17 on the death of John J. McGuinn, their father and grandfather, respectively Marianne Mirsch Sypniewski ’76 and Maureen Mirsch Leonard ’78 on the death of their uncle, Peter Mirsch Patricia Vozzo-Gola ’83 and Caroline Gola ’22 on the death of Patricia Vozzo, their mother and grandmother, respectively Gina Altomare Vega ’97 on the death of her grandfather, John J. Reilly Juliana Wagner ’20 on the death of her grandfather, Francis Wagner Anne Guardino Yaccarino ’70 on the death of her mother, Anne L. Guardino
Class of 2023 Important Admission Dates Now accepting online applications. October 21: Open House November 3: Scholarship/Entrance Exam Early November through mid-December: Shadow dates available.
Golden Girls LUNCHEON
Friday, September 7 Whitemarsh Valley Country Club
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Educating Founders since 1858
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Spring 2018
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120 West Wissahickon Avenue Flourtown, PA 19031-1899
NON PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE PAID LANGHORNE, PA PERMIT #118
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Green Valley Country Club lafayette hill, pa
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MONDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2018