Summer 2014
Marian Magazine CREATING A CONFIDENT FUTURE
Emily McKeone ’05: Great Expectations, page 17 Longtime Art Teacher Retires, page 24 Jasmine Hopkins ’94: Creating a Confident Future, page 26
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A Message from the Provincial Dear Friends of Marian, Tradition is an important aspect of any school, but is especially crucial when working to create a confident future for its students, families, alumnae, friends, faculty and staff. Field Day aside, since Marian’s traditions are based on those of the Servants of Mary, we have more than 200 years to build upon. As announced earlier this year, Marian is implementing a president/principal leadership model to ensure that Marian is positioned to meet the goals outlined in its ambitious strategic plan, Building on Our Strength, Planning for Our Future. As the title of the plan itself indicates, Marian has a strong foundation on which to build. As Marian approaches its 60th celebrations, I am delighted to announce a new president who will help further the Marian mission into the beginning of the next 60 years and continue to advance the Catholic Servite tradition that so strongly defines our school. We welcome Mary Higgins ’69, who will join Marian in July as the first alumna in its 59-year history to be named president. Mary brings to Marian incredible strengths in leadership, compassion and communication that will help us as we implement our strategic vision. Supporting her in managing the day-to-day activities of the school are long-time administrators Kathy Tompkins and Rochelle Rohlfs, who look forward to serving as interim co-principals for the upcoming school year. Mary will join us after 39 successful years at Creighton University. She held leadership positions and was recognized with many prestigious awards for her accomplishments and service to students. Most recently she was assistant vice provost for Student Retention and Pre-Major Advising. Mary graduated from Creighton where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree, majoring in American Studies, and a Physical Education Teaching Certificate, K-12. She went on to receive a Master of Science in Physical Education degree from the University of Nebraska at Omaha. As a mother of a 2007 alumna, Mary has served in many volunteer leadership capacities at Marian. She served on the Marian Board of Directors from 2005 to 2011, leading several committees and serving as board chair. Mary also co-chaired MarianFEST in 2005, and was president of the Marian Alumnae Board from 2012 to 2014. “I am deeply honored and excited to rejoin the Marian community and help lead Marian into the future,” said Mary. “My life of service and dedication to education was shaped by my time at Marian, and I remain forever grateful for the richness of my high school experience.” Marian’s commitment is unwavering to empowering girls to succeed as confident, independent, thinking leaders, grounded in Servite values. Once you read about all the good our students and alumnae have accomplished in just these past few months, I am sure you will agree. With our strong Servite tradition, dedicated faculty and staff and a well-equipped president at the helm, Marian will continue to educate young women and prepare them for a confident future, teaching them to be leaders and life-long learners in a society where their talents and faith will give hope to the world. Sincerely,
Sr. Mary Gehringer, OSM ’66 Provincial, Servants of Mary President, Marian High School, Inc.
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In this issue:
Marian is a Catholic, college preparatory school for young
Marian Today . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Class of 2014 Legacy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
women founded by the Servants of Mary and dedicated to Mary, the Mother of God. Marian teaches the beliefs of the Roman
Future of ISSN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Emily McKeone ’05: Great Expectations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 Inside the Collaboration Stations Lab. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
Catholic faith in a caring and loving community atmosphere. The mission of Marian High School is to commit all its
Future Marian Girls. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
resources to the college preparatory education of young
Jasmine Hopkins ’94: Creating a Confident Future. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 Advancing the Mission of Marian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
women, teaching them to be leaders and lifelong learners in a society where their talents and
Alumnae Today. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
faith will give hope to the world.
Alumnae Class News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
Magazine Contributors Writers Kaitlin O’Hara Ahart ’05 Editor and Director of Communications Bridget Mulhall ’15, Marian Network Newspaper Staff Writer Proofreaders Amy Schumacher Bauman ’92, English Teacher Sarah Jank ’01, Director of Advancement
Alumnae News Nancy Kettering Casey ’82, Director of Alumnae Relations
Layout and Design Tracie Sis, Green Hat Creative Heads
Photography Kaitlin O’Hara Ahart ’05
Printing Elman & Co.
Scott Peak Paige Taylor ’14 Marian Journalism Students
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Marian Today Since Marian opened its doors in 1955, the young women who have come and gone have continued to prove themselves as empowered, confident, independent, thinking leaders; today Marian is no different. Our Marian girls are embracing leadership roles in the classroom, on the stage, on the court and in their community.
Marian Theater Proudly Presents the 2014 Fall Musical and Midwest Premiere of
Disney’s The Little Mermaid Oct. 30 & 31, Nov. 1 & 8 at 7 p.m. Nov. 2 & 9 at 2 p.m. Mary Joy and Tal Anderson Performing Arts Center Marian will be one of the first regional theaters in the country to present the stage adaptation of Disney’s The Little Mermaid. Go under the sea with this musical favorite, based on the enchanting fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen.
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Left to right: Seniors Erin McClellan, Ellen Townley, Molly Tessmer, Carly Novacek, Caroline Hendricks, Sarah Brashear, Madison Kenney, Maggie Witzenburg
SENIOR HONORS DAY Faculty and staff recognized eight members of the Class of 2014 for their outstanding accomplishments in leadership, service and academics at the annual Senior Honors Assembly on May 13. Erin McClellan was honored as Valedictorian and Madison Kenney was honored as Salutatorian. Both McClellan and Kenney were also commended as National Merit Scholars. The Mistress of Ceremonies for the 2014 commencement ceremony on May 18 was Carly Novacek. Sarah Brashear, Molly Tessmer, Ellen Townley and Maggie Witzenburg were honored with Marian Service Awards for their outstanding efforts at Marian and in the Omaha community. Marian’s highest honor, Marian Girl of the Year, was bestowed upon Caroline Hendricks. Hendricks received this honor because her teachers feel that she exemplifies Marian’s six Core Values in their truest sense and lives those values on a daily basis.
Surprise… It’s Surprise Day! There is no better way to shake the “winter blues” than a day full of surprises. On Feb. 7, Marian treated its students to just that. Surprise Day has been a beloved tradition since the early days of Marian, encouraging school spirit and allowing students to spend time with each other outside of the classroom. What started as a break from class for popcorn and a movie has evolved into an afternoon filled with carnival-like activities, complete with cotton candy and sno cones.
Mr. Kory Delkamiller (kneeling) and Mr. Tom Baker were the center of attention during the magic show.
COMMENCEMENT
2014 Congratulations, Class of 2014!
Our graduating seniors submitted 954 applications to 146 schools and earned $18.9 million in college scholarships. Next fall, they will continue their education at 46 schools in 22 states, the District of Columbia and even Ireland!
Surprise Day is a secret event planned by the Student Board; no one, not even the teachers, knows when it will be. It can happen any day, at any time, at any point in the second semester. This year, the “Surprise Day” announcement was made following the mid-day bell. Students rushed to the gym to enjoy a magic show, free lunch, movies, crafts, manicures, face painting, inflatable games and a dance party. There was something for every girl to enjoy!
Where They’re Headed…
1-3 Graduates
4-9 Graduates
10-20 Graduates
100+ Graduates
Alabama Arizona California Colorado District of Columbia Idaho Michigan Minnesota New York North Carolina Ohio Oklahoma Pennsylvania South Carolina South Dakota Washington Ireland
Iowa Texas Wisconsin
Illinois Kansas Missouri
Nebraska
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CLASS OF
2014
Ryan Broniecki
Rozlyn Kmiecik Merrick ’90
Helen Burns
Kathleen Kirk Burns ’82
Maria Casey
Gerilyn Salerno Casey ’81 (dec.)
Sara Cipolla
Ann Teets Cipolla ’86
LEGACY
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Adelaide Curley
Virginia Russell Curley ’86
Elizabeth Erftmier
Anne Bernard Erftmier ’85
Honor Fredrick
Catherine Dunn Whittinghill ’86
Mary Fuxa
Terri Goltl Fuxa ’78
Sarah Geske
Mary Beth Fabian Geske ’89
Lizzy Hahn
Joan Kalhorn Hahn ’78
Amelia Hansen
Paula Salerno Hansen ’78
Margaret Herold
Catherine Dennell Herold ’89
Jennifer Jurek
Stacey Renken Jurek ’82
Bailey Kelly
Molly Bennett Kelly ’90
Madison Kenney
Laura Heck Kenney ’85
Jane Kilgore
Mary Ann Luby Kilgore ’74
Meghan Langdon
Jennifer Corbin Langdon ’91
Margaret McKeon
Sara Sheeren McKeon ’81
Nicole Meisenbach
Kari Rudloff Meisenbach ’83
Haley Minnick
Maureen McAndrews ’83
Carly Novacek
Mary Carlisle-Novacek ’82
Megan Powell
Ellen Ciciulla Powell ’83
Abigail Pritchard
Lori Harrington Pritchard ’84
Miranda Reeder
Janelle Lanoue Reeder ’76
Jaime Rice
Jeanne Archer Rice ’80
Mary Rigatuso
Molly Malone Rigatuso ’84
Madeline Schimonitz
Tracy Malesa Schimonitz ’88
Susan Piotrowski Malesa ’66
There are 36 young women from the Class of 2014 who have something special in common with their moms and in some instances, their grandmothers! They are all members of Marian’s Alumnae Association and will forever share that bond. Mary Searl
Molly Hogan Searl ’82
Nancy Wright Hogan ’59
Shea Stromer
Julie McGowen Stromer ’84
Amanda VanBuren
Patti McGuane VanBuren ’84
Evyn Watts
Andrea Schaefer Watts ’81
MacKenzie Wenck
Mary Schall Wenck ’85
Elizabeth Wiggs
Beverly DeMay Wiggs ’80
Margaret Witzenburg
Molly Dolan Witzenburg ’86
CONGRATULATIONS! Molly Zabawa
Paula Procopio Zabawa ’82
Anastasia Zuerlein
Stacy Mihulka Zuerlein ’80
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Field Day 2014 SENIORS REEL IN FIELD DAY TROPHY Just two words can send waves of excitement through the halls of Marian: Field Day. Marian’s most colorful tradition was held on April 25 at the D.J. Sokol Arena at the Ryan Women’s Athletic Center on the campus of Creighton University. While it may seem like a typical day of track and field events, Marian’s Field Day is the culmination of a week of student-led activities with the fundamental purpose of teaching students basic leadership skills in an atmosphere of school spirit, class unity and fun. It is a colorful, creative and fun-filled competition between the classes to see who can display the most school spirit. Field Day is an all-morning event that includes a parade of the classes in their costumes, class demonstrations and cheerleading routines. The event ends with an awards ceremony. This year, the Class of 2014 took home the trophy with their theme, Seniors Gone Fishin’: Reeling in the Spirit.
Year after year, Marian is pleased to witness just how Field Day instills our Six Core Values—Empowerment, Compassion, Marian Identity, Spirituality, Community and Service—in each one of our students.
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This year, nearly 2,300 people viewed Field Day from a live stream on Marian’s website. There were viewers from four continents, 12 countries and 34 states in the U.S.! Field Day events kicked off with Walls Night at Marian on April 22. Each class transformed its designated three-dimensional wall in Marian’s East Gymnasium into a theme-related fantasy display. More than 1,200 guests typically tour these displays. There is no cost of admission, but Marian’s Student Board suggested a new or gently used book donation for “Books for Nate.” For more photos and a full list of results by category, please visit www.marianhighschool.net/field-day.
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FIELD DAY 2014 FINAL RESULTS 1st – Seniors Gone Fishin’: Reeling in the Spirit 2nd – Juniors on the Job: Spirit Under Construction 3rd – Sophomore Steam Engine: All Aboard the Spirit Express 4th – Freshman Pharaohs
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ACADEMICS
Programmed to Succeed Three teams represented Marian Robotics when they competed in the Feb. 22 Robotics Expo held at the SAC Museum. The teams did very well thanks to their ability to think quickly and come up with creative solutions. Their hard work led them to place first or second in every single event! MARIAN VARSITY: Seniors Natalie Bialas, Hannah Lajba, Annie and Rosie Gensichen took first place in presentation and foosball. They placed second in documentation and programming. MARIAN AQUA PHOENIX: Lily Foley ’17, Sarah Villarreal ’17, Isabelle Swanson ’17 and Kelly McGonigal ’15 took second place in presentation and water rescue. MIGHTY MARIAN MUNCHERS: Seniors Alyssa Gebhart, Manisha Kalaga and Bailey Costello received second place in tornado. The teams are coached by science teacher Mrs. Sharon Genoways.
Front Row, left to right: Tridia Tshimanga ’15, Anna Morrison ’15, Kara Pickett ’14 Middle Row, left to right: Haylea McNeil ’14, Laura Davis ’14, Maeve Nelson ’15, Sydney Wolf ’14, Mackenzie Gregg ’15 Back row, left to right: Maggie Gell ’14, Kenzie Wenck ’14, Claire Davis ’16
Marian Attends ICAN Leadership Conference Mrs. Amy Sibbernsen McLeay ’00 and 11 sophomores from her Women’s Studies class had the privilege of attending the Institute for Career Advancement Needs Leadership Conference (ICAN) held at the CenturyLink Center on April 9, 2014. More than 2,000 people typically attend the annual conference, aimed at providing personal and professional development tools that empower women to become leaders in their own communities. This year’s theme was “Happiness: Bending the Bottom Line” and included several keynote speakers.
Marian Senior Wins NEHS Merit Scholarship Marian is pleased to announce that Lori Nevole ’14 has been selected as one of the recipients of the 2014 National English Honor Society (NEHS) Merit scholarships, one of the top prizes awarded by the organization. Nevole is one of four graduating seniors in the U.S. to receive an NEHS Merit Scholarship. “Competition for this year’s round of scholarships was indeed keen; senior members from all 650 of our NEHS chapters were eligible to apply,” wrote NEHS Director David Wendelin. Nevole’s essay on “The Well and the Mine” rose to the top as one of the most outstanding works. Her essay will receive placement in several NEHS publications. Her essay will be made available on the NEHS website, www.nehs.us, along with her photo and biography.
Nebraska FBLA State Leadership Conference Results Several Marian students participated in the three-day Nebraska Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) State Leadership Conference in April. The conference consisted of business meetings, competitive events, seminars, workshops, election of state officers, awards, special programs and other planned leadership and educational activities. Marian won first place for the largest percentage of increase in local chapter membership! Marian’s chapter experienced a 196% growth from 2013 to 2014, jumping from 25 to 74 members! The team also received awards for participating in iGive, Go Green, Feed Nebraska, March of Dimes and having at least a 25% membership increase. The following students received awards in individual categories:
Allison Buser ’14 Economics, Honorable Mention Kelly McGonigal ’15 Impromptu Speaking, Eighth place Caroline Hendricks ’14 Public Speaking II, Fifth Place Business Law, Honorable Mention Job Interview, Semi-Finalist
Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) is a national career association for students in grades seven through 12 who are interested in business or business education careers. Over 5,300 students from more than 130 high schools in Nebraska participate in the FBLA program. Benefits of FBLA membership are business proficiencies, community responsibility, leadership skills and self-confidence.
“We are bursting with pride for our Marian senior, her accomplishment, and her reflection on our beautiful Servite school,” said Regina Lehnhoff, moderator of Marian’s NEHS chapter. “How blessed we are to work with such wonderful students on a daily basis!”
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Marian Students Qualify for National History Day Contest Sara Flaxbeard ’16, Aly Freeman ’16, Mary Kate Mulhall ’16, Claire Davis ’16 and Hannah Nelson ’14 placed second at the National History Day State Competition with their documentary on Standing Bear. As one of the top two finishing teams in the state National History Day contest, they are eligible to attend the Kenneth E. Behring National History Day Contest at the University of Maryland at College Park in June. This is where the best National History Day projects from across the United States, American Samoa, Guam, International Schools and Department of Defense Schools in Europe all meet and compete.
Mullen Represents Marian at Girls State Left to right: Senior newspaper and yearbook editors Sloan Nelson, Connor Silvey, Erin McClellan, Hannah Hertel
Journalists Repeat as State Champs For the eighth time in the last nine years, Marian journalists have won the Class A-2 Journalism Championship! Marian earned 24 points to secure the title in 2014. Marian journalists went on to compete on May 12 at the University of NebraskaLincoln for the All-State and Super-State titles in their respective categories. The individual results are as follows: Ellen Townley ’14 First place in News/Feature Photography Erin McClellan ’14 First place in Yearbook Theme Copy Writing Lauren Tondl ’14 First place in Newspaper Feature Writing Anna Krettek ’14 Fourth place in Photo Illustration and fourth place in Graphic Illustration
Each year the American Legion Auxiliary hosts Girls State, an event that offers young women the opportunity to learn about the principles of American government through actual practice. Marian’s representative at Girls State this year was junior Sarah Mullen. Sarah joined girls from schools throughout the state in June at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln campus to learn about positive processes of self-government and good citizenship as practiced in democratic societies.
Marian Named Co-Champion of Washburn Leadership Challenge In April, five sophomores attended the Washburn Leadership Challenge Event in Topeka, Kan. and finished in a three-way tie for first place! As CoChampions, each team member received a $500 scholarship to Washburn. The team of Ashley Yakopec, Emily Witzenburg, Margaret Reding, Payton Ranck and Julia Griffin was the only Nebraska high school to participate in the challenge, a unique leadership competition hosted by the Washburn University Leadership Institute in which small teams of regional high school and college students interact within leadership environments. Marian fulfilled the challenges and overcame the obstacles placed before them in a manner that demonstrates exemplary leadership knowledge and execution.
Connor Silvey ’14 Fourth place in Headline Writing and fifth place in Sports Feature Writing Laura Burnett ’14 Fifth place in Yearbook Feature Writing Megan Stuva ’14 Fifth place in Sports/Action Photography Sarah Brashear ’14 Sixth place in Entertainment Writing
Left to right: Sophomores Ashley Yakopec, Emily Witzenburg, Margaret Reding, Payton Ranck, Julia Griffin
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“I have been very blessed to have been at Marian and I can say that it has been a very fulfilling job,” said Zimmerman. “I have enjoyed so much working with the girls. Marian has wonderful, compassionate and outgoing students.”
Devoted Registrar Retires After 15 Years Since 1999, Sheila Zimmerman has helped keep Marian girls on the path to graduation and beyond. After 15 years of serving as registrar and student advisory assistant, Zimmerman retired in May. As a woman with great attention to detail, it comes as no surprise that she was often referred to as “Detective Zimmerman.” On a daily basis, she tracked everything from grades and GPAs to transcripts and scholarships. She also helped organize the registration process and aided in setting the master schedule, ensuring that each student was in the right class at the right time. In addition, she kept track of permanent files containing copies of birth certificates and immunization records for past and present students. While she always kept busy and her tasks at times seemed unending, the students were always Zimmerman’s first priority. Zimmerman said she welcomed the workload. “I am not a sitter,” she said. “Ask me to do something, and I’ll do it!”
Left to right: Kelly McGonigal ’15, Addie Curley ’14, Carly Steinauher ’14, Jill Salerno ’14, Simone Duryea ’14
Model United Nations Seniors Jill Salerno, Carly Steinauer, Simone Duryea, Addie Curley and junior Kelly McGonigal attended the Metro Kansas City Model United Nationals Conference on April 9. The students participated in committee discussions, which challenged them to find solutions to real-world issues. Over 70 delegations comprised of 21 schools attended the conference.
Outstanding Seniors Recognized by Omaha World-Herald Congratulations to seniors Madison Kenney, Maggie Witzenburg and Erin McClellan on their selection to the All-Regional Second Team of the Omaha WorldHerald’s 2014 All-Academic Recognition Program! These ladies were selected from more than 1,160 nominations based on testing, classroom performance – taking into account class curriculum and rigor of senior schedule – as well as involvement in school activities, academic competitions and school leadership. The 11 seniors listed below were also recognized for their achievement and received honorable mention awards: Claire Adams Jocelyn Carter Addie Curley Simone Duryea Julianne Faur Emma Finken
Madalyn Grace Reilly Meyer Lori Nevole Meghan Schumacher Sarah Wangler
Co-Principal Kathleen Tompkins saw firsthand the impact of Zimmerman’s work ethic. “Sheila was a task master and she enjoyed bringing tasks to completion,” she said. “She was dependable, organized and kept detailed records. She assisted administrators, counselors, teachers and students. We will certainly miss her and her work ethic.” Prior to working at Marian, Zimmerman taught business education classes at West Nodaway, her alma mater, in Missouri and was attendance secretary at Columbus High School in Columbus, Neb. Although she had grown fond of both previous schools, she immediately realized that there was something different about Marian when she first began her work. “The dedication of the teachers and the compassion they have for their students, on top of the stringent classroom curriculum, makes it a totally different ballgame,” she said. Throughout the years, Zimmerman navigated a number of changes and challenges in the transition and implementation of new technology. Everything was done by hand when Zimmerman first started and now almost everything has gone digital. One of the largest projects she was involved in was making the transition to Marian’s current online grading software, PowerSchool. With grading, class scheduling, and the curriculum handbook now available online, Zimmerman believes that students are empowered more than ever to take ownership in their learning. Zimmerman says she will miss the students the most and offers a bit of advice to teachers. “Don’t ignore the shy girl in the corner,” she said. “She may be hanging on every word you say. You just might be making the biggest impact on her life.” Upon retirement, Zimmerman and her husband, Denzil, will move to Bolivar, Mo. in order to be closer to family. Their daughter, DeAnn, lives there with her husband Josh and daughters, Reagan and Karsen. While she has yet to make specific plans, Zimmerman is sure about one thing – she plans to stay busy! 11
JEA Announces Winter Contest Awards Marian is proud to announce the results from the Journalism Education Association of Nebraska’s (JEA) Winter Contest. The annual competition attracted numerous entries in 21 categories from 18 JEA member schools across the state. All entries per category were rated together, regardless of the school class. Several Marian students received a rating of superior, the contest’s highest award. Sarah Brashear ’14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Newspaper Layout Christina Chapman ’14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Headline Writing & Design Hannah Hertel ’14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Yearbook Layout and Yearbook Sports Feature Writing Erin McClellan ’14. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Yearbook Theme Copy Writing Sloan Nelson ’14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sports News Writing Araya Santo ’14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Newspaper Feature Writing Connor Silvey ’14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sports Feature Writing Shannon Smith ’14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . News/Feature Photography Megan Stuva ’14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Yearbook Feature Writing Ellen Townley ’14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Newspaper Layout
Speech Team Continues Success The Marian Speech Team wrapped up its regular season on March 27 when they took third place overall at the Class B State Tournament, hosted by the University of NebraskaKearney, but that did not stop several students from going one step further. Six of the nine entries broke to the quarterfinal round, and one student made it to the finals at the National Individual Events Tournament of Champions (NIETOC), which took place in St. Peter, Minn., from May 9-11. Paige Taylor ’14 placed 29th overall with her oratory; Sofia Hingorani ’16 placed 22nd with her humorous interpretation; Jenna Taylor ’16 placed 20th with her humorous interpretation; Caroline Hendricks ’14 and Kenna Silvey ’15 placed 14th with their duet acting piece; and Sarah Brashear ’14 was crowned the national champion in humorous interpretation, making her the first Marian student to even win a national speech title! In addition, Speech Coach Mr. Luke Ostrander obtained the distinction of Nebraska Coach of the Year by the National Forensic League (NFL), the national honor society for middle and high school speech and debate. Ostrander was nominated for the award by other high school forensic program directors, based on accumulated student successes. The 2013-2014 school year marks Ostrander’s third season as the coach of the Marian Speech team, which consistently ranks in the top ten percent of forensic programs nationwide. Several of Ostrander’s speech students have qualified to compete at national forensic tournaments this summer.
Left to right: Sofia Hingorani ’16, Caroline Hendricks ’14, Paige Taylor ’14, Mr. Luke Ostrander, Jenna Taylor ’16, Kenna Silvey ’15, Sarah Brashear ’14
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Left to right: Science teacher Mrs. Sharon Genoways, CodeCrush Coordinator Amanda Rucker, Beth Rouse ’17, UNO IT Department Dean Deepak Khazanchi
Freshman Selected for IT Immersion Experience Beth Rouse ’17 was one of the 30 young women selected to participate in CodeCrush, a program sponsored by the University of Nebraska-Omaha (UNO) College of Information Science and Technology’s Women in IT Initiative. Beth was chosen from a pool of over 70 applicants from 34 schools in 24 communities throughout Nebraska, Iowa and South Dakota. CodeCrush is an immersion experience for eighth and ninth-grade girls created to show them the world of IT, encouraging them to participate through handson learning. From Feb. 26-March 1, Rouse and her nomination teacher, Mrs. Sharon Genoways, learned more about emerging IT fields such as bioinformatics, IT innovation, music technology and cybersecurity.
Sisters Receive Top High School Awards Senior twin sisters Annie and Rosie Gensichen were recognized for both scholastic and athletic contributions this spring. Annie was named an Affiliate Award Winner of the National Center for Women & Information Technology (NCWIT) Award for Aspirations in Computing. She was honored on April 6 at a regional awards ceremony at the University of Nebraska-Omaha. NCWIT recognized Gensichen for her computing-related aspirations and for her demonstrated, outstanding aptitude and interest in information technology/computing, solid leadership ability, good academic history, and plans for post-secondary education. She is one of only two Affiliate Award Winners selected from the Nebraska and Southwest Iowa region. Rosie was named a School Winner for the prestigious Wendy’s High School Heisman Award. Rosie was chosen for her excellence in academics, athletics and community leadership. The Wendy’s High School Heisman Award celebrates the achievements of the nation’s top high school seniors both in and out of the classroom. Just as the collegiate Heisman is known for being the highest award in college football, the Wendy’s High School Heisman Award is recognized as the most esteemed award at the high school level, as it encourages future leadership by acknowledging well-rounded students. One male and one female from each high school were selected as School Winners from the nearly 48,000 applicants nationwide.
SERVICE & SPIRITUALITY
Mrs. Karen Brown holds the hands of students during an assembly in her honor.
Marian Staff Member Not Alone In Cancer Fight
Seniors Recreate a Marian Tradition Seniors and sophomores revived a dear Marian tradition this year with a blessing ceremony involving the two classes. In March, the senior class symbolically passed on to sophomores what has been instilled in them as Marian students. These “components of character,” included compassion, friendship, time, tradition, empowerment and sisterhood and have guided seniors throughout their four years at Marian. Similar to Marian’s traditional pinning ceremony, the blessing ceremony signified completion for seniors. The tight bonds made with peers and the prospect of beginning college careers fueled the ceremony with emotion. Sr. Marianna De Simone, OSM, helped lead the students in the blessing and the program was accompanied by the vocal talents of the senior members of the Select Women’s Choir.
JOIN MARIAN IN PRAYER At the beginning of each school day, the Marian students, faculty and staff rise and pray as a community of faith. Marian invites you to make a sacred space in your day and to join us in the daily prayers offered by current students. Please visit our homepage, www.marianhighschool.net to access these prayers and reflections under “Marian Daily Prayer.”
Students, faculty and staff at Marian showed attendance office staff member Mrs. Karen Brown that she is not alone in her fight with cancer. As a sign of support, the entire school surprised her on one day in by April wearing hats in her honor. Students, faculty and staff paraded amid the bustling halls wearing hats of all types as a tribute to Brown, who has worn a hat of her own daily to school since beginning chemotherapy treatments for lung cancer earlier in the school year. Hard hats, chef ’s hats, fedoras, stocking caps, berets, sombreros and even softball helmets were among the sampling of head gear on display. Faculty and staff incorporated Brown’s favorite color, purple, into their attire to show their support. They also presented Brown with a gift certificate to a day spa. Brown was moved by the school’s gesture. “There is a saying that imitation is the highest form of flattery,” she laughed in her address to an all-school assembly.
“In 1 Corinthians 13:13 we are told, ‘And now these three things remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.’ I think about that every day because you give me faith, you give me hope,” she continued. “But the fact that I can come to Marian each day and love each of you, and to have you love me back, makes what I’m going through a little easier.” The day was a surprise to Brown, the bright and cheery face of Marian’s attendance office. She is the most visible staff member, welcoming students as they start their day and communicating with parents and visitors.
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Future of ISSN Includes Many Travel Opportunities Article featured in the May issue of The Network: Junior Edition by Bridget Mulhall ’15 Most people within the Marian community are aware that Marian is a Servite High School; however, what most do not know is that it has connections and ties to several schools all over the world because of the Core Values of the Servants of Mary. As Marian girls, we have been taught the history of International Servite Schools Network (ISSN). Students have recently become engaged members of the Servite Network as they begin to think about the ISSN’s future and what it means for their education. Over the past three years, Marian has become more and more involved in the ISSN program. In September 2011, faculty members Mrs. Kim Remmick and Mr. Luke Ostrander experienced the wonderful opportunity of attending the ISSN Conference, held in Misano, Italy. Representatives from seven countries and their schools were present, as well as contingents from the Servite Sisters and Friars. The goal of the organization is to keep the Servite education strong, unite the schools, and further develop our charism in students. Both Remmick and Ostrander are now on the executive board for ISSN, acting as secretary and treasurer, respectively. Since the conference, the ISSN has been more productive than ever. Marian continues to accept exchange students from all over the world and sends Marian girls to other historical Servite locations such as Australia, India, France, and Canada. This June, Marian students will attend an ISSN business camp in at Collège Servite in Ayers Cliff, Quebec, where students will learn marketing, communication and entrepreneurship on an international level. Remmick and Ostrander are also planning a trip to London, England this summer. Ten girls were chosen to go on this once in a lifetime trip and are brainstorming creative fundraising ideas in order to cut student costs. Those students attending, mostly freshmen and sophomores, will be helping the host teachers educate their elementary students.
In the fall, Marian will host the next ISSN international conference. This means at least 25 international students will be joining Marian girls in the hallways next year, representing Australia, England, France, Canada, the Ivory Coast, India, Ghana and the U.S. The conference will be held Sept. 28 to Oct. 3 and will be split into two separate conferences. The adult conference will be led by the men and women from Servite communities, including teachers, administrators, and some student delegates. They will provide presentations about their unique schools, the history of the Servites, and how to further strengthen the ISSN. After the conference, they will focus on developing a strategic action plan for moving forward.
The students will be having a slightly different type of conference. Students will also give presentations about their schools and the history of the Servites. In addition, they will be presenting their mission statements and shadowing their Marian host students. To bond spiritually, the conference will host a mass every day to honor the different cultures being represented. Lastly, they will be publishing newspapers and filming broadcasts to further educate Marian students and Servite students abroad about the exchange program. Staying connected continues to be a key goal of the ISSN. The importance of the ISSN, exchanging ideas and providing students all over the world with new and vibrant opportunities will not only make Marian an even more unique institution but will also strengthen the bond of Servite schools.
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NEHS Students Collect Donations for African Libraries Members of Marian’s National English Honor Society (NEHS) collected $500 for building and furnishing Catholic grade school libraries in Cameroon, Africa. The funds were sent to Sr. Rosemary Arras, member of the order Handmaids of the Holy Child Jesus, whose mission is to promote literacy and a culture of reading in schools by providing access to books and libraries in Africa. Sr. Arras will return to Cameroon this summer to deliver the funds, which will help combat the growing issue of illiteracy in Africa. Marian NEHS students were made aware of Sr. Arras’s mission by Rita Callahan McMullen ’89. In keeping with their national motto, “Gelast sceal mid are,” the Old English phrase which translates to “Duty goes with honor,” members of Marian’s National English Honor Society (NEHS) focus their annual service projects on children’s literacy, particularly through the Omaha Catholic grade school libraries. Marian’s NEHS Marcella Chapter, chartered in 2008, is named in honor of Sr. Marcella Sitzmann, OSM, a Servant of Mary, English teacher and the first principal of Marian. The Marcella Chapter of the NEHS is the only chapter of the National English Honor Society chartered in the state of Nebraska. It is affiliated with the national collegiate honorary, Sigma Tau Delta.
Sophomore Commended for Writing Pro-Life Essay Julia Griffin ’16 placed second in the 10th-grade division of the 2014 Archdiocese of Omaha Pro-Life Essay Contest. The theme of the contest was based on one of Mother Teresa’s encounters with the family of a disabled child whose name was “Professor of Love” because, the mother said, “This child is teaching us the whole time how to express love in action.” In her essay, Griffin explained how persons with disabilities are disrespected and undervalued by our culture and how they can teach us to “express love in action.”
FREEZIN’ FOR A REASON
Temperatures in the 20s and 30s did not stop brave Marian students from taking a dive into Lake Cunningham for Special Olympics Nebraska’s (SONE) Polar Plunge on Feb. 15. Marian students raised more than $6,000 to support the organization’s athletes this year. A total of 34 students and one teacher took the icy leap for the event, one of SONE’s largest fundraising activities. Marian was the largest school to take the plunge and came close to being a top fundraising team. At Marian, the Polar Plunge Club raises money for the Special Olympics through various fundraising opportunities but most eminently through the Polar Plunge event, which involves jumping into Lake Cunningham during the winter. This year’s club theme was “Freezin’ for a Reason.”
Outstanding Sophomore Clara Wertzberger ’16 received the Exchange Club of Omaha Outstanding Sophomore Award for Marian this year. Wertzberger was selected by the Marian faculty because of her outstanding service to the school and community. In addition to carrying a 4.13 GPA, the sophomore is a dedicated member of the Recruitment Team, Speech Team and Latin Club. Marian Guidance Counselor Kathy Janata described her as well-organized, articulate, kind to others and inclusive.
“She is recognized by her teachers and fellow classmates as an excellent role model,” Janata wrote. “She leads a value-based life and I am impressed by her confidence and unselfishness.”
Each year the Exchange Club recognizes high school sophomores from Omaha and surrounding areas for their academic, extracurricular, and volunteer achievements. Each high school provides recommendations for this recognition. Wertzberger received a certificate and her name will be added to the Outstanding Sophomore Award Plaque displayed at Marian.
Marian FBLA Students Bring Awareness to Driver Safety On Friday, May 2 Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) students at Marian hosted a safe driving presentation from engineering firm Alfred Benesch & Company in Marian’s West Gym. The firm’s presentation was geared toward newer drivers—mostly sophomores and juniors— and brought awareness to driver safety.
The firm addressed three main components to driver safety: seat belt usage, distracted driving (cell phone usage), and driving under the influence. The presentation was offered as part of Marian’s “Distracted Driving Week,” which was sponsored by Marian’s FBLA from April 29–May 2. In addition to the presentation, random and unannounced seat belt and distracted driving checks were performed throughout the week. To bring further awareness to students, FBLA compiled and shared statistics related to distracted driving deaths.
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Marian Students Help Save Lives Students, Servites Celebrate Earth Day On Earth Day 2014, Marian student-athletes and the Servants of Mary took part in a blessing ceremony for Marian’s community garden project. Marian students, faculty and staff were joined by Provincial of the Servants of Mary Sr. Mary Gehringer, OSM ’66 and several other Servite Sisters for the prayerful gathering.
Marian’s annual American Red Cross blood drive continues to be one of the most successful blood drives in the city. This year, Marian collected 53 pints of blood—enough to save 159 lives! In exchange for standing up to a needle, blood drive donors were treated to delicious snacks and drinks following their appointments. Student Board sponsors a blood drive each year to give students, faculty and staff a way to volunteer, network and help save lives.
The community garden project began in April 2013 under the leadership of Co-Principal and Athletic Director Ms. Rochelle Rohlfs. Throughout the summer, Marian athletes and coaches spend a great deal of time and energy preparing and caring for the garden. Approximately 40-50 student-athletes work to maintain the garden, which consists of potatoes, peas, lettuce, beans, sweet corn, watermelon, cantaloupe, cucumbers, tomatoes, and sweet peppers. From weeding to picking, students enjoy and admire biodiversity at their fingertips. All the produce from the garden is donated to the Motherhouse Community. To show gratitude for their thoughtfulness and generosity, the Servants of Mary chose to recognize Earth Day with the garden blessing. The Sisters gave to the students a gardening hoe, gloves, a water sprayer and a garden sign as symbols of their prayers and support.
Rho Kappa Students Help Preserve History The Marian Chapter of Rho Kappa Honor Society wrapped up its 2013-2014 service project by honoring the women of Mu Sigma and their dedication to improving learning and literacy in Omaha. Rho Kappa members spent four months converting hand-written historical documents to digital images so that they could be preserved electronically. Most of the documents were meeting minutes dating back to 1892! Each Rho Kappa member took part in the project, which allowed each hand-written page to be compiled onto a CDROM in the form of an e-book. The e-book was given to the women of Mu Sigma at a special dedication ceremony on May 6 at Marian. “This philanthropy project has instilled in each of us a newfound appreciation for the creation and documentation of history,” said project member Hannah Hertel ’14. “As active women in society, our history dictates what is to come for future generations. We thank the women of Mu Sigma … for allowing us to not only carry on a part of their history but also to make our own history here at Marian as well.” Future members of the Marian Chapter of Rho Kappa will continue to partner with Mu Sigma to help preserve important documents for years to come. The Marian Chapter of Rho Kappa Honor Society is Nebraska’s only local chapter of the national social studies honor society.
Left to right: Paige Taylor ’14, Jillian Morand ’17, Grace Mortenson ’17, Meg Stahlnecker ’15, Julia Lanoha ’15
Equestrian Club Members Show Support for HETRA In March, several Marian Equestrian Club members visited the Heartland Equine Therapeutic Riding Academy (HETRA), where they toured the facility and made a donation of items from their wish list. HETRA serves a variety of clients including children and adults with disabilities such as cerebral palsy, spina bifida, muscular dystrophy, cystic fibrosis, brain tumors, head or spinal cord injuries, visual impairment, autism, developmental delays and strokes. “The Marian Equestrian Club’s support is greatly appreciated,” said Jodi Teal ’93, development director for HETRA. “With 19 horses in the HETRA herd, there is always a need for barn items and supplies.” Teal explained that HETRA relies on donations from the community, whose support allows the organization to continue to provide services to individuals with disabilities. “We welcome any Marian student to learn more about equine-assisted activities by coming to tour the barn!” Those interested are asked to call either of the Marian alumnae who are on staff at HETRA – Maggie Olson ’08 or Jodi Teal ’93 at 402.359.8830. For more information about HETRA, visit their website, www.hetra.org.
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Emily McKeone ’05: Great Expectations When you ask Emily McKeone ’05 what to expect in a typical day as a Peace Corps Volunteer, her answer might surprise you. “In all honesty,” she wrote in an email from her post in rural Luapula Province, Zambia, “the only constant in my life is the coffee that I make in a French press each morning to aid in my patience with the army of children at my door.” A typical day, as she once knew it at Marian, is unheard of in the landlocked country in south-central Africa.
program between one rural primary school and one American elementary school. She even secured book donations to start three small school libraries. Under one of her biggest projects, “Water for Schools,” McKeone secured nearly $5,000 to build three wells at three rural primary schools. A total of 900 Zambians benefits daily from this project. Outside of her PCV duties, McKeone has had the extraordinary opportunity to explore the natural beauty and rich history of Africa. During a half-marathon, she crossed the bridge between Zambia and Zimbabwe for a great view of Victoria Falls, one of the seven natural wonders of the world. She experienced an unforgettable safari ride in Botswana. She visited Robben Island in Cape Town, South Africa, where Nelson Mandela served 18 of his 27 years in prison. On Christmas morning in 2013, she climbed to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, the tallest mountain in Africa. She then rang in the New Year on the island of Zanzibar in the Indian Ocean.
In July 2012, McKeone, a somewhat terrified environmental studies and sociology graduate from the University of NebraskaLincoln, joined more than 260 other Peace Corps Volunteers (PCV) serving in Zambia, one of the world’s poorest countries. The lack of food and clean drinking water combined with an overwhelming struggle with illiteracy and extremely high HIV/AIDS infection rates have been large obstacles in the country’s economic development. Under the Peace Corps’ Rural Aquaculture Promotion, McKeone assists the Zambian Department of Fisheries in developing sustainable fish-farming practices for those living in rural communities. In addition to encouraging a healthy diet, fish farming provides rural farmers and their families with a substantial supplementary income. At first, McKeone’s living arrangements themselves brought unexpected struggles. Although English is the official language throughout Zambia, Bemba is the local language where she serves. Her home for her 27-month duty has been a small hut made of mud brick walls and a grass thatch roof. There is no electricity in the village, nearby school or the health clinic. McKeone utilizes what is called a “borehole” or hand-pump well to obtain water and filters it for consumption. She uses a brazier, which is similar to a charcoal grill, for all of her cooking. She takes bucket baths. Her toilet is a hole in the ground. Every morning, she awakes to the same clamoring of curious neighbor children vying for her
attention. And every night, she fights away rats and snakes as they long to be her roommates. As time went by, McKeone learned to accept her new way of life. “I needed to relinquish control and surrender to this experience and calling,” she said. She grew to love the Zambian people – even the noisy kids – and regards them as the kindest, most hospitable people she has ever encountered. For example, McKeone said she is often invited to share a meal with someone she just met. If she is walking, a driver in a passing car will offer her a ride.
“You find that people everywhere are just human,” she said. “We worry about love and family, making enough money to get by, being accepted by our community… People everywhere enjoy laughing and jokes and all children seem to be ticklish.” On top of winning nightly battles with creepy critters and dealing with little privacy, McKeone has achieved success on larger projects that significantly improve the livelihood of the Zambian people. In addition to her work with fish farmers, McKeone organized a number of workshops covering topics such as youth empowerment and conservation gardening. To address the HIV/AIDS epidemic, she provided over one thousand people with critical educational seminars and offered counseling and testing. To improve English skills and facilitate cultural exchange, she established a correspondence
While letting go may have been difficult for her parents, Phil and Jeanine, McKeone is thankful they have worn a brave face and supported her throughout her journey. “My parents have always been committed to serving others, especially those who are easily neglected,” she said. “They were open about their own personal struggles, and often expressed them with a sense of humor, but always saw service to others as the solution.” McKeone believes that on top of instilling in her the ideals of persistence and hard work, Marian has also influenced her life of service to others. “I think Marian has definitely shaped my definition of service,” she said. “In my opinion, service is a mindset and a lifestyle that requires constant care and attention. Service is trying to make the context of your world, at that moment, more comfortable for someone else. It is a choice we make every step of the way and it doesn’t matter where you are.” McKeone’s Peace Corps term is expected to end in October 2014; however, she may extend her stay in Zambia to work with a nongovernmental agency. “Today, I am grateful to be in Africa,” she said. “I’ve had to learn to do all things differently. I’ve had to learn to live with rats, speak the local language, bike long distances, cook with charcoal, etcetera.” “Zambia has taught me that life is not black and white and your truth is based on your interpretation of that experience.” In other words, McKeone might say, expect the unexpected.
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AT H L E T I C S
Senior Setter Named All-American Marian is proud to announce that Sydney O’Shaughnessy ’14 has been named a High School Volleyball Academic All-American by PrepVolleyball.com. O’Shaughnessy is one of 150 athletes from 40 states selected for the honor, and one of only two from the state of Nebraska.
April signing, left to right: Seniors Janae Heaney, Meghan Schumacher, Amanda Van Buren, Sarah Brashear, Courtney Warren
“It’s an amazing feeling to receive this level of recognition,” said O’Shaughnessy, a senior setter for Marian. “I’ve worked so hard to get to this level and now I realize that all of my hard work has paid off. I get butterflies in my stomach just talking about it!” O’Shaughnessy has been a member of the varsity volleyball team for three years and lettered each of those years. In 2013, O’Shaughnessy had over 1,100 assists in 2013 and almost 150 kills, helping to lead Marian to the Class A state volleyball crown. She also had 230 digs, 47 aces and 17 blocks last year. The 5-foot-8 Crusader will attend University of Nebraska-Omaha next year.
Feb. signing, left to right: Seniors Lauren Tondl, Madeline Crowdy, Aubrie Bosilevac, Madeline Edwards, Maddie Elliston, Molly Beelman
Seniors Honored on Signing Days Two ceremonies were held this spring to honor the seniors who participated in the National Letter of Intent Signing Days on Feb. 5 and April 16. The following seniors have been awarded scholarships to universities for their performance in academics, arts and athletics: Molly Beelman – Soccer, Rockhurst University Aubrie Bosilevac – Soccer, Minnesota State-Mankato Sarah Brashear – Speech, Bradley University Madeline Crowdy – Soccer, University of Iowa Madeline Edwards – Soccer, Western Illinois University Maddie Elliston – Soccer, Penn State University Molly Harrison – Cheer, Villanova University Janae Heaney – Soccer, Benedictine University Meghan Schumacher – Cross Country, Rockhurst University Lauren Tondl – Soccer, Saint Louis University Amanda Van Buren – Dance Team, Midland University Courtney Warren – Tennis, University of Chicago
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Rohlfs Named PCA DoubleGoal Coach Award Finalist Co-Principal Rochelle Rohlfs was selected as one of 75 finalists for the 2014 Positive Coaching Alliance’s (PCA) Double-Goal Coach Award for her success as head volleyball coach. She is the only coach from Nebraska to receive this distinction. The Double-Goal Coach Award honors recipients for pursuing the goal of winning, and more importantly, the goal of teaching life lessons through sports.
Marian Claims 12th State Soccer Title On May 19, Marian claimed the Class A state soccer championship after their 1-0 win over Millard North at Creighton University’s Morrison Stadium! Marian now has 12 state soccer titles under its belt, which is twice as many as any other school in state history! In addition, the Nebraska Coaches Association awarded Marian the 2014 Soccer Sportsmanship Award, proving the Crusaders are champions of character as well!
Marian Diver Named All-American Congratulations to Taylor Carter ’17 for being named to the National Interscholastic Swimming Coaches Association (NISCA) All-American diving team! In addition to the national recognition, the soon-to-be sophomore captured the 2014 metro conference diving crown and placed second at the state meet with her best score of the season. Taylor’s brother, Clark Carter, also competed and was named boys’ metro diving champion. He is a junior at Creighton Prep. The brother-sister duo is coached by their mother, Becki Clark Carter ’86, who was an All-American and state champion diver herself when she attended Marian. She held the state 1-meter diving record for eight years and is still ranked No. 4 on the Omaha World-Herald’s Top 10 All-Time Nebraska high school swimming leaders list.
State Cheer Competition Marian’s varsity cheerleaders, under the direction of coach John Yenney, competed in the sixth annual Nebraska State Cheer & Dance Championships in Grand Island, Neb. on Feb. 22. They received second place in the Class A Tumbling division and represented Marian very well among the 1,600 participants in the overall competition.
“I am very excited but, at the same time, humbled to be recognized as a finalist for the PCA Double-Goal Coach Award,” said Rohlfs. “The Award reflects what is important to me not only as a coach but also as an educator; winning is not simply defined by the numbers on a scoreboard but by the character and values that are learned through athletics.” Rohlfs was selected as one of PCA’s 75 finalists from a record 1,700 nominations. Nominations were made on her behalf by high school coaches, parents, players and students from around the area.
Greater Omaha Sports Committee Honors Marian Senior Erin McClellan ’14 was one among the 10 scholar-athletes from winter sports honored at a luncheon on April 15 by the Greater Omaha Sports Committee. McClellan was selected not only for her athletic contributions on the Marian Swim and Dive team but also for her academic accomplishments in the classroom. She has been named class valedictorian, commended as a National Merit Scholar and recognized as one of the 25 Outstanding Seniors in 2014 by the Rotary Club of Omaha.
TENNIS CAPTURES METRO CROWN Congratulations to the Marian Tennis team for securing the 2014 Metro Conference Tournament title in May! Courtney Warren ’14 and Anna Slezak ’16 took first in No. 1 singles and No. 2 singles, respectively. Julia Tatten ’15 and Clare Crockett ’16 finished in third place in No. 1 doubles and Morgan Crockett ’16 and Sara Flaxbeard ’16 finished in third place in No. 2 doubles.
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Three Equestrians Bring Home Awards Three members of the Marian Equestrian Club competed in the Lake St. Louis Winter Festival Horse Show held at the National Equestrian Center in Lake St. Louis, Mo. in February. This two-week show attracted competitors from across the Midwest. The results of this contest are recognized by the United States Equestrian Federation and the Iowa Nebraska Hunter Jumper Association. Grace Mortenson ’17 competed at week two of the show with her six-year-old Trakehner gelding, Second Wind. They entered the Low Child/Adult Jumper division and the High Child/Adult Jumper division and brought home fourth, sixth and eighth-place ribbons. Katie Hess ’16 competed at week one with her eightyear-old Shire/Thoroughbred cross mare, Queen of Hearts. They competed in the Low Child/Adult Jumper division and the High Child/Adult Jumper Division where they won two eighth-place, one third-place and two fourth-place ribbons. Julia Lanoha ’15 competed at week two with her 16-year-old Brandenburg gelding, Quite A Classic. They entered the Large Junior Hunter division for riders ages 16-17 and came home with one fourth-place and three fifth-place ribbons.
Marian Blue, left to right: Maddie Worth ’14, Lori Nevole ’14, Hannah Knight ’14, Katie Petersen ’16, Anna Vasko ’15
Marian Trap Makes History Many male competitors left the 2014 State High School Trap Shoot stunned because, for the first time in in the event’s 45-year history, a ladies’ team earned a second-place overall finish! The squad of Marian Blue, Lori Nevole ’14, Maddie Worth ’14, Katie Petersen ’16, Hannah Knight ’14, and Anna Vasko ’15, was the highest scoring girls’ team at the championship. The team elected to move out of the Ladies’ Division to place in the top two overall after winning in a shoot-off against the Waverly boys’ team. Marian Blue also won the Girls’ Handicap Championships. Individual results are as follows: Lori Nevole ’14 took first place in the Ladies’ 16-yard event, shooting 74 of 75 targets, and finished in third place overall in the Ladies’ Division. Katie Petersen ’16 took fourth place in the Ladies’ 16-yard event.
Anna Vasko ’15 took third place in Ladies’ Handicaps and finished seventh overall. Hannah Knight ’14 took sixth place in Ladies’ Handicaps and finished sixth overall.
More than 2,400 shooters competed in the state championship. Many of Marian’s 36 shooters will be participating in the national tournament, which takes place in Sparta, Ill. in mid-July.
Grace Mortenson ’17 with her six-year-old Trakehner gelding
Swimmers and Divers Receive State Runner-Up The Marian swimming and diving team received runner-up in team scoring at the 2014 Girls’ State Swim meet on March 1. The team is to be commended for their hard work and dedication!
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Elliston Repeats as Gatorade State Player of the Year For the second year in a row, Maddie Elliston ’14 has been named the 2013-2014 Gatorade Nebraska Girls Soccer Player of the Year. This marks the third year in a row a player from Marian has been selected for the award. The award, which recognizes not only outstanding athletic excellence, but also high standards of academic achievement and exemplary character demonstrated on and off the field, distinguishes Elliston as Nebraska’s best high school girls soccer player. “Maddie is very deserving of this award,” said Amy Price, head soccer coach at Marian and 2002 alumna. “Her intensity, skill, and composure on the field put her among the best. It has been such a rewarding experience to coach Maddie. She has determination, discipline and the desire to push herself to the next level and incredible skill and knowledge of the game.” Elliston was also named captain of the 2014 Omaha WorldHerald All-Nebraska Girls soccer team. She has signed a National Letter of Intent to play soccer on an athletic scholarship at Penn State University this fall.
Welcome Back, Coach DiBiase! Marian announced in March that a familiar face will once again lead Marian’s swimming and diving team in 2014. Pat DiBiase will take over for David Anderson, who announced he would be stepping down from the position to spend time with family. Pat DiBiase is not new to Marian and certainly no stranger to veteran swim coaches of Nebraska. He first came to Marian in 1992 as a volunteer swim coach. In 1997-98, he became the co-head swim coach and Marian won its first state swimming championship in 16 years. In 1998-99, Marian was state runner-up. In 1999-2000, DiBiase was named head coach and the team proceeded to win eight consecutive state championships. “To have Pat back in our swim program is quite a blessing,” said Co-Principal and Athletic Director Rochelle Rohlfs. “Both his experience and passion for Marian’s swim and dive program are incredible.” During his tenure, Marian swimmers held eight of the 11 Nebraska state records. He also coached 39 individual state champions, 15 relay state champions and 64 high school All-Americans. In 2005, DiBiase was named the Omaha World-Herald Girls Coach of the Year. DiBiase replaces David Anderson as head coach, whose swimming and diving teams have finished runner-up at the state meet four times. He has coached AllAmericans, state champions, and metro conference champions. Anderson currently teaches social studies at Marian and was selected for the Nebraska Civic Leadership Program through the University of NebraskaOmaha’s Political Science Department in 2012.
INSIDE THE COLLABORATION STATIONS LAB As Marian’s math and science instruction enters a new era in the school’s STEM classroom, other curriculum areas are exploring similarly new research capabilities in the new Collaboration Stations lab within the school’s John A. Edney Library. Like the STEM classroom, the Collaboration Stations Lab allows teachers and students to work together in analyzing and synthesizing information. Additionally, pulling students out a formal classroom provides a chance to connect and share ideas. With its new “one-toone” iPad learning initiative, Marian is aiming to put its students on technology’s cutting edge. A Six rectangular six-seated desks define the workstations and are set up to promote collaboration. B Included with the workstations are two wall-mounted flat-screen computer monitors. Instead of clustering around a single, small screen, or working from individual laptops, group members can now share information visibly, easily, and in close proximity so that groups stay engaged and interactions are more productive. C Each workstation is also equipped with an Apple TV and iPad networking capabilities. Users connect and display their iPad screens on the large monitors with the press of a button. Members of a group can also switch which screen is being shared just as easily. D The teacher’s station has a SmartBoard, a desktop Macintosh computer and a ceiling-mounted LCD projector. E Marian integrated the use of iPads in its curriculum this year, providing hundreds of students with immediate access to an
efficient research-gathering tool which compliments the lab setting. F Regina Lehnhoff has been a member of the Marian English Department for 38 years and has seen many changes in classroom technology. Currently, she moderates the Marcella Chapter of the National English Honor Society (NEHS), the only chartered NEHS chapter in the state of Nebraska. Lehnhoff teaches in Marian’s Advanced Placement program and has participated in the College Board’s Advanced Placement Teacher Training Institutes and Advanced Placement Vertical Team Training Institutes. She has studied Holocaust education for over 30 years and has participated in the Anti-Defamation League Regional Bearing Witness Conference. Lehnhoff holds a Master of Arts degree in English, a Bachelor of Science degree in English Education and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism. She is also trained in the Socratic Seminar. She is an adjunct professor at Nebraska Wesleyan University.
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Marian Students Selected for UNO Honor Band
PERFORMING ARTS
Congratulations to the members of Marian’s Band who were chosen through an audition process to be part of the University of Nebraska-Omaha’s 2014 Honor Band. Marian musicians included Manisha Kalaga ’14 on flute, Emily Pape ’16 on clarinet and Katie Williams ’17 on tuba. The Honor Band members performed at a concert at the Holland Performing Arts Center in January.
Marian Violinist Selected to Perform at Carnegie Hall Junior violinist Brooklynn Venteicher was one of 100 high school students selected to play in the orchestra for the prestigious 2014 High School Honors Performance Series at Carnegie Hall in February. Participation is limited to the highestrated high school performers from across the world. Venteicher auditioned in the fall of 2013 for the Honors Performance Series and was selected to be part of the orchestra from a pool of 10,000 international musicians. “I am so excited to have had this experience performing with so many talented students from around the world,” said Venteicher. “It was the chance of a lifetime and a great opportunity for me to grow as a musician.”
Students Receive Scholastic Art Awards The Scholastic Art Awards of Nebraska announced that the artwork of several Marian students was selected for the Annual Scholastic Art Awards of Nebraska Exhibition. As part of their honor, their work was exhibited at the OPS TAC Building during February and March. A ceremony was held on March 1 at the Omaha Public Schools TAC Auditorium. Photo courtesy of Sue Stahlnecker Venteicher ’83
Venteicher rehearsed and performed under maestro Jeffrey Grogan. Though much of her time was focused on performance preparation, Venteicher was also able to experience the best of the sights and the performance arts in New York City.
Spring Play Brings Modern Twist to Classic Tragedy A cast of 23 students from Marian and Creighton Prep brought to life Marian’s spring play, “Romeo & Juliet: A Modern Retelling of the Classic Tragedy.” The production came on a timely occasion, as April marked the 450th anniversary of Shakespeare’s birth. While the love story of Romeo and Juliet remained the same, the re-imagined version of William Shakespeare’s classic tragedy about two star-crossed lovers and their families presented an ultra-modern twist. Theater Director Luke Ostrander framed the adapted story around two power-hungry women, Mrs. Capulet and Mrs. Montague, each vying for political office. In addition, several male character roles were changed to female. The language, music and other audio-visual aspects of the production were also modernized and the cast surprised the audience with a song and dance number. The production ran from April 4 to 6 inside the Kish Auditorium of the Mary Joy and Tal Anderson Performing Arts Center.
The students who participated are to be commended for their time and effort in entering this competition. GOLD KEY HONOREES Drawing: Kathryn Baginski ’16 Samantha Bianchi ’14 Grace Bradford ’15 Audrey Burt ’15 Mackenzie Duce ’14 Julia Lanoha ’15 Taylor Lazio ’16 Anya Lindholm ’16 Emily McMinn ’15
Madeline Mendell ’15 Sydney O’Shaughnessy ’14 Megan Smith ’15 Elsie Stormberg ’16 Kelly Weiler ’15 Painting: Madeline Mendell ’15 Printmaking: Taylor Lazio ’16
SILVER KEY HONOREES Drawing: Gabrielle Armendariz ’14 Maddie Carlisle ’14 Jocelyn Carter ’14 Susie Dineen ’15 Lauren Doherty ’15 Megan Frederes ’14 Morgan Frodyma ’14 Bridget Hake ’14 Abby Incontro ’14 Hannah Lajba ’14 Meghan Langdon ’14 Gabrielle Lavedan ’16 Maeve Nelson ’15 Lauren Olson ’14
Tori Stuckey ’14 Ellen Townley ’14 Fashion: Hannah Lajba ’14 Mixed Media: Megan Anderson ’17 Printmaking: Hanna Lazio ’16 Sculpture: Gabrielle Armendariz ’14 Natalie Bialas ’14 Elizabeth Wiggs ’14
HONORABLE MENTION Ceramics: Madalyn McKeone ’16 Drawing: Natalie Bialas ’14 Kathryn Fuxa ’16 Sarah Geske ’14 Katherine LaRose ’15 Hallie McNamara ’15 Kelsey O’Connell ’15 Roni Perez ’14 Katie Petersen ’16 Madison Shramek ’15
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Mixed Media: Melanie Nordstrom ’17 Megan Szwanek ’17 Painting: Audrey Burt ’15 Julia Lanoha ’15 Sculpture: Abby Incontro ’14 Abigail Pritchard ’14
Select Women’s Choir Competition Trip Results Congratulations to our Select Women’s Choir who received a Superior Plus rating on their performance in March in San Antonio, TX. This means that all three judges gave the choir a superior rating. Also, Elaine Hart ’15 received an award for her fantastic facial expression during the performance. Because of the choir’s high rating, they have been invited to perform at Carnegie Hall in New York for the 2014-2015 “Gold” performance.
Marian Fares Well at District Music Contest
Junior Named Nebraska Young Artist Award Winner
Congratulations to all the music students who participated in the District Music Contest from April 22-25!
Emily McMinn ’15 was selected as a Nebraska Young Artist Award winner in the area of Visual Art. McMinn participated in the Nebraska Young Artist Awards Day on April 9 at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL). She spent the day in Lincoln attending a luncheon, classes, performances and an awards ceremony.
The following contestants scored a rating of Superior: Select Women’s Choir Marian Band Ninth Grade Choir Girls Vocal Trio consisting of: Jane Kilgore ’14 Maggie Witzenburg ’14 Roni Perez ’14
Piano Solos Amalia Hansen ’14 Molly Fisher ’16 Violin Duet Brooklynn Venteicher ’15 Caroline Byrne ’15
The Nebraska Young Artist Awards annually recognize Nebraska high school juniors who are talented in art, music, dance, theatre, or film and news media. During the past 16 years, more than 1,000 students have been recognized from across the state. Students are selected by UNL faculty based on the quality of their art.
Vocal Solos Laura Davis ’14 Jane Kilgore ’14 Roni Perez ’14 Maggie Witzenburg ’14 The following contestants scored a rating of Excellent: Vocal Solos Tehillah Alphonso ’16 Julianna Curley ’15 Maddie Neppl ’15 Miranda Reeder ’14 Sydney Wolf ’14 Flute Solo Baylie Moravec ’15 Tuba Solo Katie Williams ’17
Violin Solos Sarah Villarreal ’17 Natalie Sterba ’17 Meg Stahlnecker ’15 Caroline Byrne ’15 Marian String Ensemble
Senior Featured in Omaha Fashion Week Hannah Lajba ’14, former president of Marian’s Fashion Club, was one of a very few featured high school designers during Omaha Fashion Week 2014. Her creations were front and center for a public fashion show on March 4 at the Omar Bakery Building. Her story aired on KMTV Channel 3 on Feb. 21. Lajba will pursue a fashion degree this fall at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York.
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The Art of Saying Goodbye: Kathy McPherson Retires After 42 Years and education,” Jensen said. “I owe a sincere thank you to Mrs. McPherson for her guidance and for laying the foundation for me.” In her high school days, Jen Edney ’01 never would have guessed that she would one day be a full-time adventure photojournalist with her own business. Today, she shoots from planes, motorcycles, chase boats, in the water, and with remote-controlled cameras. Edney’s work has been published in the Los Angeles Times, Omaha World-Herald and Ventura County Star and on ESPN, ABC Prime Time, CBS Sports and various other publications. “Mrs. McPherson was always great at maintaining a firm hand with patience and understanding,” said Edney. “I grew a lot in those four years as an individual and an artist and I am blessed to have had Mrs. McPherson be such an integral part of that!”
It is estimated that teacher Kathy McPherson has shared her love of art with thousands of Marian students. After 42 years of teaching at Marian, McPherson retired in May and offered one message to students: keep art a part of your life. Becoming an art teacher was a natural step for McPherson. Since she was a little girl, she has had a passion for art. After studying art and English at Hillsdale College in Michigan, McPherson began her career in teaching at Marian in 1972. At the time, the north side of Marian’s campus was sprawling with cornfields and Marian’s art department was nonexistent. Just like she does with much of her artwork, McPherson started from scratch and built the program from the ground up. “The school’s first electric potter’s wheel was purchased at a garage sale,” McPherson laughed, but she and the students made do with the tools at hand. Before long, the art department began to blossom. Soon Marian added two kilns, created more classes, hired a second art teacher and expanded into a second art room. McPherson’s vision, paired with a liberal budget, allowed her to tailor a unique curriculum for her pupils. “After a while, students aren’t interested in the basics anymore,” explained McPherson. “I had to come up with a curriculum that was really geared toward their interests.” Over the years, Marian’s art classes interested several Marian alumnae whom have gone on to 24
enjoy successful careers in the arts. Maureen Pope Beat ’80, a well-known practitioner of the arts for over 25 years, has created oneof-a-kind artwork for national, regional and local clientele. She has also teamed up with Peggy Karr, the New Jersey artist known for her decorative glass plate collections, to design “Hometown Heritage,” a series of plates depicting historical Omaha landmarks which were sold at Borsheims Fine Jewelry and Gifts. She also collaborated with Karr on a Marianthemed plate. She credits McPherson for first encouraging her to explore painting. “Mrs. McPherson really tried to make me come out of my shell and try other things,” Beat said. “I’m glad she did because it gave me more confidence to pursue what I am adept at today.” D’Arcy Jensen ’88 recalls McPherson as a constant in her experience at Marian. Under her guidance, Jensen tried several forms of fiber art which ultimately led to her bachelor of fine arts degree in textile design. Currently the Vice President and Global Creative Director at LeSportsac, Jensen has collaborated with other major beauty and fashion companies such as Ralph Lauren, Liz Claiborne, Estee Lauder and Old Navy. “For the past 20 years, I’ve had a career in fashion where I am able to use my creative passion
A lot has changed since 1972. Eventually, Marian discovered whiteboards and the Internet. The once-sprawling cornfields have been replaced with soccer, track and softball fields, and Marian’s art department is stronger than ever. One thing that remains the same is McPherson’s love for Marian. “I love my job. I love my students. I love being a part of their creativity,” she said. “Marian is special. It makes you feel like you’re part of a family and forms a sisterhood that will last throughout your life.” McPherson said she will take each day as it comes in retirement but does not intend to be a stranger to Marian. She looks forward to checking in on her students as a substitute teacher, still offering her same message of keeping art close to them. “I always tell my students, you may not go into art and you may not become an art teacher, but just think of what you have and keep nurturing it,” she said. While she is skilled in countless areas of her profession, one art McPherson has not yet mastered is that of saying goodbye. Unlike others on the verge of retirement, she was not counting down the days until her last on the job. Truth is that McPherson’s love for Marian runs deeper than the swirls of blue in Van Gogh’s night sky.
“I grew up here and I grew old here,” she said. “I never considered myself an extraordinary artist. I assumed that everyone else had what I had. Now I see that what bit of ability I have is really a gift. So if I can foster the gifts that other people have, then I’ve done my job. I’ve fulfilled something.” Kathy McPherson – along with her many gifts – will be greatly missed.
Future Marian Girls UPCOMING EVENTS New Parent Social Monday, June 23 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Marian All incoming parents are invited to attend this fun night designed to help parents get to know each other.
Faces of Marian Orientation Saturday, Aug. 9 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Marian
Summer at Marian!
All incoming freshmen and their parents, as well as any new families, are invited to attend this important orientation. There will be separate sessions for parents and students. The event will conclude with a student-led prayer service.
Freshman Orientation Tuesday, Aug. 12 at Marian Marian’s Open House Sunday, Nov. 23 Noon to 2:30 p.m. at Marian
SAVE THE DATE
Catch the Marian spirit! All fifth, sixth, seventh and eighth-grade girls and their parents are invited to attend. Guided tours of the school will be offered.
There is still time to sign up for one or more of Marian’s summer camps! Learn more about the soccer camp and visual arts camps scheduled for July. Visit www.marianhighschool.net to sign up today!
Incoming Freshman Ice Cream Social On May 2, Marian hosted the annual Big Sister/Little Sister Ice Cream Social for all Big Sisters and incoming freshmen. Members of the Class of 2018 enjoyed a day filled with games and small group activities. The event concluded with an ice cream feast shared with new friends to last a lifetime. It was a great opportunity for students to meet and interact with their future classmates!
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Future Class of 2018 On Feb. 12, Marian administrators had the privilege of delivering 25 academic scholarships to eighth-grade students throughout the city of Omaha. The academic scholarships were determined by the girls’ scores on Marian’s eighth-grade Placement Exam administered on Jan. 11. In March, 163 eighth-graders registered to become a part of Marian’s future Class of 2018.
Scholarship Recipients from St. Vincent de Paul, left to right: Delaney Stekr ’18, Megan Doehner ’18, Mikaela Morales ’18, Courtney Kilroy ’18, Shannon McSweeney ’18
Jasmine Hopkins ’94: Creating a Confident Future Giving back is both a priority and a gift for Jasmine Hopkins ’94, owner and founder of Hopkins Consulting, LLC. Born in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Hopkins moved to Omaha when she was just four years old. Her mother, Daphne, saw the transition as an opportunity to be close to relatives and a chance for her daughter to obtain a better education. It was also the chance to take to advantage of a better education. After attending public schools, Hopkins enrolled at Marian. She believes her Marian experience developed the analytical problem-solving skills that proved to be critical to her success in college and beyond.
“Marian was a turning point for me. I learned that I was good at math and that is where I knew I wanted to be an engineer,” she said. “I also learned tolerance. Being in an environment where you are exposed and expected to understand other cultures and religions was so important.” In 1998, Hopkins graduated magna cum laude from Tulane University with a civil engineering degree. Knowing the options for utilizing an engineering education are limitless, Hopkins looked outside the box and landed her first job in consulting. As IT solution architect at Accenture, a multinational corporation, Hopkins worked with Fortune 500 companies to improve their technology and processes, specifically in human resources. During her tenure, she managed several multi-million dollar merger projects at the national and global level.
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In all, Hopkins has traveled to over 20 states and five countries. Her travels provided a realm of eye-opening experiences. “When I went overseas, it opened up a completely new perspective and newfound appreciation for what we have in the U.S.,” said Hopkins. “I found that many people have not been exposed to many black female executives in technology. That was challenging at times, but my experiences at Marian taught me to consider the perspective of other cultures and practice tolerance for the way they interact with each other and me.” After 14 years with Accenture, Hopkins ventured into her own consulting business and founded Hopkins Consulting, LLC. She assists companies in developing and implementing their human resource strategies via technology. Hopkins credits Marian for building the confidence, independence and leadership to start her own company. “I always saw Marian as the catalyst that helped me along my path to success,” she said. Now that Hopkins has had her own success as a consultant and an entrepreneur, she is giving back to Marian. She started small when she graduated from college, recognizing that the act of giving was as important as the actual amount. Over the years, Jasmine’s financial support of Marian’s annual giving program, The Marian Fund, has given her the satisfaction of knowing she is helping a young girl realize her dream of a Marian education.
“When I went overseas, it opened
up a completely new perspective and newfound appreciation for what we have in the U.S.,” said Hopkins. “I found that many people have not been exposed to many black female executives in technology. That was challenging at times, but my experiences at Marian taught me to consider the perspective of other cultures and practice tolerance for the way they interact with each other and me.
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“Anyone who went to Marian can most likely say that it holds a special place in her life,” she said. “As an alumna, giving back is my way of acknowledging and sacrificing something else to say Marian is important; Marian helped me and I’m glad they are still around for others to experience.” “I want Marian to grow,” Hopkins said. “I want to make sure that it touches more students like me. That’s why I make it a point to stay connected with Marian as much as I can.”
Advancing the Mission of Marian 32ND ANNUAL MARIANFEST
Celebrates Servite Tradition, Education More than 550 friends of Marian spent their evening on Feb. 22 sharing hearty laughs, tasting delicious food and donating generously to support the 32nd annual MarianFEST (Funding Education in the Servite Tradition), Marian’s largest fundraising event of the year. This year’s event raised nearly $300,000, which provides general operating support to Marian. The theme for the benefit dinner was “Live From Marian, It’s Saturday Night!” Marian’s Quad and gymnasiums were completely transformed into the set of Saturday Night Live inside Studio 8H at Rockefeller Center.
Omaha Gives to Marian Girls More than $282,000 was donated to Marian during the second annual Omaha Gives! event on May 21. Marian and over 500 other area nonprofits participated in the 24-hour online giving event organized by the Omaha Community Foundation (OCF). The event originated in 2013 with the goal of inspiring the community to come together for 24 hours to contribute as many charitable dollars as possible to support the work of local nonprofit organizations. Marian will also receive matching funds which will amplify support for tuition assistance.
Each parent, alumna and friend of Marian plays a tremendous role in ensuring Marian remains dedicated to providing the finest education for young women, empowering them to succeed as confident, independent, thinking leaders. Because of their compassion and generosity, Marian is able to offer nearly half of its student body with some for of tuition assistance, totaling more than $900,000 this year. A “Live From Marian” introductory video included special appearances from local celebrities. The laughs continued as teachers and students recreated of some of the most popular SNL sketches–all with a Marian twist! R.J. and Liz Neary and Investors Realty were the event’s Premier Sponsors. Current parent Gary Grote served as the master of ceremonies and even took part in some of the comedic sketches. Kirby Smith served as the auctioneer for the exciting live auction. Executive chairs for MarianFEST 2014 were Jerry and Joan Kalhorn Hahn ’78, Mike and Mary Kay Mangus Leatherman ’81, Tom and Sara Sheeren McKeon ’81, Rob and Dede Salerno and Brian and Susie Ward Shoemaker ’81. More photos are available on Marian’s website, www. marianhighschool.net.
MARIANFEST
2015
SAVE THE DATE
SATURDAY, FEB. 21
Left: Religion teacher Mr. Andrew DeLeonardis and English teacher Ms. Connie Cavel ’68 were “excellent” as Wayne and Garth from “Wayne’s World.” Executive chairs (left to right): Rob and Dede Salerno, Mike and Mary Kay Mangus Leatherman ’81, Brian and Susie Ward Shoemaker ’81, former Head of School Dr. Susan Russell Toohey ’82, Joan Kalhorn Hahn ’78 and Jerry Hahn, Sarah Sheeren McKeon ’81 and Tom McKeon.
Right: Social studies teacher Mr. Tom Baker and guidance counselor Ms. Kathy Janata cheered on students during their ACT tests as “Spartan Cheerleaders.”
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Seniors Pledge to Give Back to Marian The Class of 2014 has truly given the Marian community something to talk about. In addition to being crowned 2014 Field Day Champions, the graduating seniors have committed to the second-highest Senior Class Pledge on record! At the Senior Breakfast in May, the Class of 2014 presented former Head of School Dr. Susan Toohey with check representing their gift of $12,575 and 87% class participation rate. Since 2007, the Senior Class Pledge has provided an opportunity for graduates to commit to giving back to Marian by helping a future girl have access to the same great education she enjoyed. The Class of 2014 was asked to consider a gift of $75 over a five-year period, including the four they are in college.
“Supporting The Marian Fund with your Senior Class Pledge is part of a seven-year tradition that allows Marian to change the lives of future students,” said Director of Advancement Sarah Jank ’01. “It is an important step to becoming an alumna because it allows you to say ‘thank you’ and pay it forward.” Those members of the class who complete their five-year pledge will be recognized in Marian’s Annual Report as part of the Crusader Club which recognizes consecutive annual giving, and at their five-year reunion with a special token of appreciation.
SAVE THE DATE
Lexus Champions for Marian Golf Tournament 2014 Plans are “teeing off ” for the 19th annual Lexus Champions for Marian Golf Tournament to be held July 14, 2014 at Indian Creek Golf Course in Elkhorn. Mark Pfeil, professional golfer will be the celebrity pro at the event. Pfeil played on the PGA Tour from 1976-2001 and is a two-time AllAmerican at University of Southern California. The tournament benefits tuition assistance at Marian and is part of the Lexus Champions for Charity, a unique series of 200 charity golf tournaments throughout the United States. Planning is underway, so contact Shari Gilg at 402.571.2618, ext. 1167 or at sgilg@omahamarian.org to join in the fun.
Thank You from The Marian Fund The Marian Fund 2013-2014 saw another successful year in giving, thanks to the hundreds of generous supporters and their belief in the mission of Marian. With more than $569,000 in gifts received, The Marian Fund 2013-2014 surpassed its goal by 4 percent, according to Director of The Marian Fund Sue Lindsey Mickey ’69.
2013-2014
THE MARIAN FUND
Left to right, Senior Student Board members and Class Officers: Erin Violi, Sloan Nelson, former Head of School Dr. Susan Russell Toohey ’82, Hannah Lajba, Carly Novacek, Caroline Hendricks, Lauren Tondl, Sarah Brashear, Ellen Townley, Shannon Smith
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Alumnae - 15% over Goal Board of Directors - 3% over Goal Current Parents - 80% of Goal Parents of Alumnae - 28% over Goal Faculty & Staff - 97% of Goal
The funds were immediately put to use during the 2013-2014 school year, allowing Marian to provide much-needed technology updates, faculty and staff developments, building/grounds maintenance and helped offset the $900,000 in tuition assistance given just this school year to nearly half of the student body. “Marian is incredibly humbled by the examples of leadership displayed by its generous benefactors, whose commitment to empowering girls to succeed as confident, independent, thinking leaders in an unsurpassed educational environment is unwavering,” said Director of The Marian Fund Sue Lindsey Mickey ’69. “Their generous support ensures that today’s Marian girls, and future Marian girls, are confident to be themselves, empowered to champion change, inspire, lead and give hope to the world.” Gifts to The Marian Fund ensure that no girl is turned away from a Marian education for financial reasons, a promise the Servants of Mary made in 1955 when they opened the school. Fifty-eight years later, Marian remains dedicated to providing the finest education to young women, preparing them for college and beyond.
Alumnae Today Join Us! Athletic Hall of Fame Banquet 2014 Saturday, Aug. 2 6 p.m. Cocktails 7 p.m. Dinner and Program Marian East Gym Reservations are $40 per person ($25 for those 18 and under). Please RSVP by Friday, July 25. For questions or reservation information, contact Alumnae Director Nancy Casey at ncasey@omahamarian.org or 402.571.2618, ext. 1270.. Proceeds benefit the Marian Athletic Booster Club. Honored members of the Marian community who shared their talents as athletes, coaches and supporters will be inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame that evening. 2014 Marian Athletic Hall of Fame Inductees Athlete: Katie Eckholt Nolan ’01 Patrons: Cindy and Jim Lebeda Coach: Jim Miller 1976 State Tennis Team: Coach: Carol Suhre Matula Kathy Kenney Cohn ’77 Michelle McCarthy Dupuy ’76 Stephanie Goodrich ’76 (deceased) Beth Duda Groshens ’77 Karen Cimpl Hotz ’79 Jan Keyser Lucas ’76 Joan Lukas ’77 Patsy Lukas ’79 Joan Johnson McGill ’77 Molly McLeay ’79 Karen Murphy Meginnis ’76 Pat Zukaitis Russo ’79 Patrice Feldhaus Urban ’77 Connie Wever Wimer ’76 (deceased) 2000 2-mile Relay Team Laura Spanheimer Dechant ’01 Anna Jones Goeschel ’00 Amy Sibbernsen McLeay ’00 Michaela Lenihan Vander Westhuizen ’02 Also being honored at the banquet are one scholarathlete and the MVPs from each of Marian’s nine Class A state-sanctioned sports.
ALUMNAE BOARD SPONSORED EVENTS
Lunch with a Leader: Monica Bosiljevac ’10 On Feb. 4, Marian students gathered over lunch to listen and learn from one of our alumnae, Monica Bosiljevac ’10, as part of the 2013-2014 Lunch with a Leader speaker series. Bosiljevac has worked hard as a senior marketing major at the University of Nebraska-Omaha (UNO) and a member of the UNO Women’s Soccer Team. She is also the Director of Communications for Football for the World (FFTW). FFTW is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing new and used football equipment to underprivileged youth worldwide. Recently, she and four UNO soccer teammates, including fellow alumnae Mel McCormick ’10 and Logen Watts ’10, traveled to Kingston, Jamaica with FFTW to bring the game they love to children in need. Bosiljevac shared stories and photos of her experience while students enjoyed lunch and Marian Moms’ desserts. Bosiljevac is truly letting her light shine for the world to see! Marian is thankful to Alumnae Board member Claire Kenkel ’01, who recruites speakers and organizes the Lunch with a Leader events.
Legacy Lunch Marian welcomed back a large group of legacies for the annual Legacy Lunch on March 30. Mothers, aunts and daughters all came back to celebrate their love for Marian and shared the many memories that helped to shape them as adults. Anne Lutz Determan ’86 and daughters Kateri ’16 and Maria ’18 spoke at Legacy Lunch, sharing their stories of their love of Marian and the community that comes along with it. Anne is proud to be a Marian alumna and it brings her joy to see her daughters embrace the Marian experience. Kateri Determan ’16 spoke about the “crazy traditions” that Marian has that make it so special. Marian has been very welcoming to Kateri. “I can honestly say that Marian is my home,” she said. Thank you to Alumnae Board member Mary Tarsney Kelly ’86 for making this event possible. Left to right: Kateri Determan ’16, Anne Lutz Determan ’86 and Maria Determan ’18
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Senior Breakfast On April 30, the Marian Alumnae Board hosted a breakfast recognizing, celebrating and welcoming the Class of 2014 into the alumnae community. Also in attendance at the special breakfast were the alumnae mothers and grandmothers of 36 graduates. Special guest speaker was Mary Higgins ’69, the 2014 Alumna of the Year. Her honest advice helped students understand what to expect in college but insisted that the best is yet to come! Alumnae Board member Maureen Gotch Vinton ’78 was instrumental in the success of this event.
Alumnae Welcomed with Hospitality at Field Day For the second year, the Marian Alumnae Board welcomed alumnae with a hospitality tent at Field Day on April 25. Alumnae received complimentary admittance, coffee and pastries. Costumes from Field Days past were on display, which provided alumnae a great opportunity to laugh and reminisce with each other. Alumnae Board President Mary Kay Mangus Leatherman ’81 was the Field Day emcee. This event would not be possible without the help of Alumnae Board member Rozlyn Kmieck Merrick ’90.
ALUMNAE TOGETHER
May Crowning Honors Blessed Virgin Mary Marian celebrated its annual May Crowning and honored the Blessed Virgin Mary on May 6. One of the highlights each year is the address given to the student body and guests by the May Queen. This year’s May Queen is senior Ellen Townley. In her address, Townley thanked her classmates for crowning Mary in their daily lives and encouraged them to stay true to their Marian Identity. Her classmates chose her as a young woman who embodies the qualities of Mary, openly sharing her faith with others. Ellen leads a valuecentered life and is committed to service in and out of school, as is shown when she tutors at her grade school and volunteers at a local hospital. She continuously demonstrates a deep sense of faith through her active and sincere participation in communal and personal prayer. Her compassionate presence and obedience to God’s will make her a model of inspiration for the entire Marian community. As is tradition, the second-grade daughters of Marian alumnae who received the Sacrament of First Holy Eucharist this year were invited to participate in the ceremony. Over 20 second-grade girls processed together with Townley, then each placed a rose at the foot of the Statue of Mary, signifying their blossoming faith. The young girls later attended a small reception with their mothers, grandmothers and aunts in the café and toured the school. Marian is grateful to Alumnae Board Chair Rose Nolan Byam ’70 for her continued support in coordinating this special ceremony.
Novel Women Book Club A group of 10 local alumnae got together on April 10 for the first meeting of Novel Women Book Club. The group read “Vanity Insanity,” a novel authored by Mary Kay Mangus Leatherman ’81. Marian’s John A. Edney Library provided the perfect setting for a night of relaxation, conversation and snacks.
Left to right: Michele Pietryga Trout ’81, Robin Mangus Boeck ’77, Maureen Gotch Vinton ’78, Suzy Dalton Elkins ’86, Sue Stahlnecker Venteicher ’83, Sara Sheeran McKeon ’81, Susan Russell Toohey ’82, Mary Kay Mangus Leatherman ’81, Sue Lindsey Mickey ’69
St. Louis Alumnae Group Coffee A group of Marian alumnae living in St. Louis gathered for a casual Saturday morning coffee on April 26 at Six North Café. The ladies enjoyed their time of networking and celebrating their Marian bond.
MARIAN MESSENGER Are you connected with your class? Are you in the know? Alumnae Board member Ellen Styker Stoll ’05 would like to have a ‘Marian Messenger’ representative from each class. If you would like to volunteer to help with fun and easy duty, please let us know! Contact the Alumnae Office.
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Alumnae Make Quite A Team
Dear Marian Family,
Angela Eyberg Hoban ’98, Abby Davidson ’07 and Jamie Young ’81 began the 2013-2014 school year in the Raytown School District in Kansas City, Mo. working with special needs children. As speech, physical, and occupational therapists, they began to co-treat students. It wasn’t until a few months in that they realized they had a special connection; all three were alumnae of Marian!
Five years ago, I was welcomed home to Marian as the first alumna head of school. As many of you know, I resigned in May 2014 to pursue an opportunity in urban education. It is a bittersweet occasion for me to write this letter, as it represents my final message to the Marian community as head of school. I care deeply about Marian. I am grateful for what Marian has provided to me as a daughter of a Marian staff member, as a student, as a parent of two alumnae and now as an administrator.
Golden Grads Walk at Graduation Eleven members from the class of 1964 attended Marian’s commencement ceremony on May 18 at the Holland Center of Performing Arts. The Golden Grads walked the stage in recognition of their 50th class reunion. A small reception was held following the ceremony to continue the celebration.
We have accomplished much in the last five years. During an era of challenging economic times, Marian’s enrollment has increased, its endowment has doubled, and the remaining funds were raised to open the new state-of-the-art Mary Joy and Tal Anderson Performing Arts Center. In addition, Marian has implemented new technologies into the curriculum, including the creation of Marian’s Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) classroom, to help students prepare for careers that will create future innovation. Under the sponsorship of our founding order, the Servants of Mary, and in partnership with an engaged Board of Directors, Marian continues to offer the finest Catholic college-preparatory education to young women. With philanthropically committed alumnae and friends, as well as a mission-driven faculty and staff, Marian is stronger today than it has ever been. I am confident that this momentum will continue under the leadership of Mary Higgins as president, who has great passion for Marian and its core values. She will be ably assisted by co-principals Rochelle Rohlfs and Kathleen Tompkins, both of whom have long been dedicated to the mission of Marian. I find great hope in knowing that, despite all that we have accomplished in this short amount of time, Marian’s best is yet to come.
Help Needed for Class of 2010 Marian Graduates On Feb. 26, Kayla Caumeran ’10 and Angela Gillespie ’10 were two of the 50 students displaced by the fire in Building G at Scott Village on the campus of the University of Nebraska-Omaha. These young ladies lost nearly every possession in their dorms. Angela and Kayla were residents in room 301, the room directly above where the fire first started. They were told they will likely not recover any items from their room–no clothes, textbooks, or electronics. The two alumnae lost nearly all of their Marian memorabilia, including their class t-shirts and senior yearbooks. While UNO has promised to assist Angela, Kayla and the other students affected by the fire, they cannot replace their most treasured Marian memories. Marian faculty and staff have provided the alumnae with a gift certificate to the BLUEtique. If you would like to donate any type of Marian memorabilia (particularly 2007-2010 t-shirts), please contact Marsha Kalkowski at mkalkowski@omahamarian.org.
God bless,
Dr. Susan Russell Toohey Class of 1982
Alumnae Mass & Reception Sunday, June 29, 2014 | 11 a.m. | $10 per person, children under 12 are free. Alumnae celebrating a reunion are free! Bring your family to enjoy mass, buffet lunch and tours of the Marian campus!
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Alumnae Class News ACCOMPLISHMENTS Christine Arkwright Connor ’66 was recognized as a fiveyear Master Gardener in April 2014 by the Nebraska Institute of Agriculture & Natural Resources. Shannan Neppl Brommer ’81 is a TeamMate mentor for a student at Holy Name grade school. Shannan is one of 11 TeamMates who have student mentees; they meet weekly, and enjoy various activities with the girls. Mary Hendrix Schuele ’82 has been a mentor with the TeamMates program for many years. Mary has been Vicky Bongomin’s mentor for the past four years. Vicky is an eighth grader at All Saints School and was recently awarded a four-year Children’s Fund Scholarship to attend Marian in the fall 2014. Pictured beside Vicky is former Head of School Dr. Susan Russell Toohey ’82 (left) and Mary Hendrix Scheule ’82 (right).
Melissa Laughlin ’90 is a Chicago-based corporate executive, certified yoga and meditation teacher, and the creator of “The Happiness Method: An Evidence-based Approach to Training Your Mind to be More Focused, Calm and Happy.” She has lived and worked around the world, including two transformative years working in Johannesburg, South Africa, where she had the profound opportunity to dine with Nelson Mandela at the Metropolitan Centre. She recounted her experience on ElephantJournal.com. Visit Melissa’s website: myurbanwell.com. Follow her on Twitter: @myurbanwell or Facebook: The Happiness Method. Aimee Sanderson Melton ’91 is a member of the Omaha City Council representing District No. 7. Aimee is also currently a mentor to a Marian student wishing to learn more about government and law with the Marian Mpower: Career Mentoring.
Photo: Today’s Omaha Women
Sarah Farha Troia ’97 was featured in the Omaha World-Herald business section on March 15. Sarah is the co-owner of Denim Saloon in Dundee. The story highlighted Sarah’s experience in business and retail and how she creates a work-life balance with three young children.
Mary Leahy Bayne ’82 is in her second year as an assistant principal at Millard North High School in Omaha. Mary previously taught English for 24 years at Millard North.
The 2014 Relay for Life of Douglas County was cochaired by Brianna Leitel Kalasky ’00. The relay was held on June 7 at Elkhorn South High School.
Nikki Schanne Maloney ’88 published a children’s book, The Peppermints: A Ski Vacation, which is now available for purchase. Check out her website: nikkimaloney.com for information and a link where you can purchase the book.
Jen Edney ’01 was featured in a two page spread in the Sunday World-Herald on Feb. 23. Jen is an Adventure Photographer and has taken extraordinary photos on her many adventures at sea. Jen’s feel for the emotion and people is what sets her apart from other photographers.
Kori Miller ’88 published the second edition of “My Life in Black and White: A Book of Experiences” in January 2014. It is available in ebook and print formats through Amazon. It’s also available as an ebook through major book retailers. “Deadly Sins: A Dezeray Jackson Mini-Series” was published in February 2014. The ebook is available through Amazon, Smashwords, Kobo, the ibookstore, Barnes & Noble as well as other major retailers and libraries. Sharon Walsh Carleton ’90, president and CEO of Ervin & Smith, was named the 2014 Omaha Business Woman of the Year! Her gifts, talents and accomplishments prove her to be another shining example of a confident, independent, thinking leader!
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Sarah Shay Gudeman ’01, a mechanical engineer and energy analyst with Morrissey Engineering in Omaha, has been named the 2014 Young Professional of the Year Award recipient by the American Council of Engineering Companies/Nebraska (ACEC/N). Sarah combines her expertise in mechanical design with a lifelong interest in sustainability and the natural environment.
Laura Spanheimer Dechant ’01 and Kori Lebeda ’05 were inducted into the Creighton University Athletics Hall of Fame on April 9 at the DoubleTree Hilton Hotel. Laura is the 10th women’s basketball player to be inducted. Kori became the second volleyball player to join the Hall of Fame. Marci Watson ’05 had the honor of co-writing a book with a professor and colleagues from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte entitled “Unshackled: Education for Freedom, Student Achievement, and Personal Emancipation.” Exploring education as an instrument of social mobility and group liberation in historical and current contexts, Marci and her co-authors raise urgent questions about the promise of school choice that merit the attention of scholars, activist educators and parents. The book is available for purchase at www.sensepublishers.com. Mary Narsizi ’07 was one of the final three contestants on “Big Break Florida,” the Golf Channel’s elimination series. The show aired from Feb. 24 through May 19. Mary recently started her third season on the Symetra Tour. Anna Bellino ’08 created Lace & Lemon, which specializes in wedding and personal stationary, design, custom websites, blogs and small business branding. Visit her website at www.laceandlemon.com. Maggie Hinrichs ’10 visited Journalism I classes on May 2 to share her experiences in college as a graphic design major at Creighton and how she hopes to find a niche market to combine her love of photography and art. She discovered her artistic passion during her senior year at Marian, when her self-portrait received national recognition and was hung in the Cannon Tunnel leading into the Capitol Building in Washington, D.C. Maggie takes photos of loved ones, pets, monuments and more and turns them into hand-drawn works of art. Visit her website, www. maggiehinrichs.com, to see if she can draw something for you today! Kaitlin Zardetto-Smith ’10 recently graduated from Nebraska Wesleyan University with a Bachelor of Music degree in Vocal Performance and a Bachelor of Science in History. She has been accepted to the master’s program in music performance (Opera) at Florida State University (rated number two in the nation) and is awaiting word on a few other graduate programs. You can find two of her recent performances on YouTube.
Ava Coughlin ’11 shared the courageous story of her battle with Stage III ovarian cancer with WOWT news. Ava was 16 when she was diagnosed and just fulfilled her Make-A-Wish trip to New York City to meet her favorite actress, Tina Fey. Through a generous donation of airline miles, Ava and her family had a Photo: WOWT.news Actress Tina fabulous trip together. Fey and Ava Megan Woodruff ’13 has been selected to participate in the 2014 Fulbright Summer Institute at Nottingham-Trent University in England. Megan is a computer engineering major at Vanderbilt University.
Michaela McGill ’05 married Andrew Beideman on Dec. 31st, 2013 at St. Gerald’s Church in Ralston. Alumnae in the wedding party were Katie Powers ’05 and Emma Nagengast ’05. Michaela works at an international development nonprofit and Andrew is finishing his master’s degree in public policy. Megan McLeay ’05 married Joe Temme on March 21, 2014 at St. Margaret Mary Church. Maid of Honor was her sister Katie McLeay Cleveland ’05. Bridesmaids were Bridget McLeay ’09 and Kelly McLeay ’11.
WEDDINGS Andrea Tourek ’98 and Richard Becerra were married April 20, 2013 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Omaha. A reception followed at The Paxton Ballroom. Andrea is employed by Edwards Auto Group as the sales manager for Edwards Hyundai in Council Bluffs. Rich is also employed by Edwards Auto Group in the finance department. They are making their home in Bellevue. Mary Hinrichs ’04 and Corbin Redli were married May 18, 2013 at St. Margaret Mary Church. Marian alumnae in her wedding were maids of honor Maggie Hinrichs ’10 and Annie Narzisi ’04; Karly Jurgensen ’04, Ann Peitzmeier ’04 and Kate Neuhaus ’04 were among the bridesmaids. Mary is a Labor and Delivery nurse in Grand Rapids where Corbin is in residency in Emergency Medicine. Michaela Mauseth ’04 married Mark Winter on April 27, 2013. Jenny Kind ’04 and Katy Albrecht ’03 were bridesmaids and Karly Jurgensen ’04 provided the musical accompaniment for the ceremony. Michaela works with student loans in enrollment at Nelnet while Mark is general manager at Fireworks, a brewery in Lincoln. Julia Frost ’05 married Tyler Goodro, son of Ann Haller-Kennedy ’75 on Nov. 6, 2013. The destination wedding took place in St. Petersburg, Fla. The happy couple currently resides in Omaha, where Julia is a registered nurse and Tyler is an options trader.
BIRTHS Jean Moylan McNamara ’90 and her husband Bob are happy to announce the birth of John Patrick. He was born on June 20, 2013 and joins his older siblings T.J. (6), Lila (5) and Barry (3). Aimee Johansen Tice ’92 and husband Adam are so proud to announce the birth of their twins on Dec. 30, 2013. Jack Richard and Emily Lynn were born at 37 1/2 weeks. Molly Adams Woodman ’97 and her husband, Pat, welcomed a daughter, Daisy Marie, on February 6, 2014. This future Marian girl joins three-year-old big brother Ozzie. Angela Eyberg Hoban ’98 and her husband Phillip are proud to announce the birth of their third son, Matthew Thomas, on Feb. 18, 2014. Matthew joins big brothers Jack and Nicholas. Matthew was also welcomed by grandmother Rose Zarbano Eyberg ’72 and aunt Lisa Eyberg Caine ’02.
Julie Wangler LaBerge ’02 and her husband, Daniel, welcomed their fourth baby, Alexander Bernard, on Feb. 11, 2014. He joins brothers William and Peter and sister Madeline. Beth Andreasen Mark ’03 and husband Andy welcomed William John on Feb. 17, 2014.
Ally Grier Beck ’04 and husband Andrew welcomed their first child, William Joseph, on March 24, 2014. Laura Hahn Powley ’04 and husband Mike welcomed their first child, Emerson Elizabeth, on April 8, 2014. Michaela Mauseth Winter ’04 and husband Mark welcomed their firstborn, Mason Simon, five weeks early on Dec. 18, 2013. He was welcomed with much love by the happy couple – and the family dog! Karen Andreasen Pease ’05 and husband Andrew welcomed their first child, Cecilia Kelly, on Feb. 10, 2014. Cecilia was also welcomed by loving aunts Beth Andreasen Mark ’03 and Megan Andreasen ’12.
IN MEMORIAM OF DECEASED ALUMNAE Maurine Hinchey Nuschy ’61, mother of Michele Nuschy Jarzynka ’83 and Noelle Nuschy Buscher ’84
Kathleen Krohn Fitch ’68
Ashley Delisi Franks ’01 and husband Chris welcomed Stella Grace on Jan. 22, 2014. Stella joins big sister Lucy.
Andrea Seminara McDaniel ’01 and husband Brandon welcomed their first baby, Caleb Ryne, on Feb. 8, 2014.
Jean Copenhaver ’78, sister of Mary Copenhaver Finch ’82, Susan Copenhaver ’83 and sister-in-law of Jennie Flynn Copenhaver ’93
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Each Friday, the students, teachers and staff of Marian offer a special prayer for those who are suffering from any kind of pain, illness, or loss and for those who have asked us to pray for them. We pray for those Marian alumnae and members of their families who have died and now experience the joy of resurrection. Following this we say together the Memorare. You may join us in spirit each Friday at 8 a.m. and you will know the power of praying together in community.
THE MARIAN COMMUNITY JOINS IN REMEMBRANCE Mary Jane Abboud, aunt of Ashley Abboud ’99 and Lesley Abboud ’91 Edith Ackerson, grandmother of Jennifer Schadendorf Valandra ’90 and mother of Mary Ellen Schadendorf, wife of retired faculty member Mike Schadendorf Edward Beitenman, brother of Katie Beitenman Guenther ’71, Mary Beitenman ’72, Maggie Beitenman Holloway ’84 and uncle of Megan Guenther ’05 Ruth Blandin, grandmother of Jane Howard Niermann ’98 William “Bill” Braun, grandfather of Tracy Braun McKillip ’79, Barbara Braun Brooks ’82 and Mary Jo Muckey Barry ’82
Anthony Ferrara, grandfather of Abby Klusmire Jordan ’96, Gina Elliott ’06, Rachel Toner ’08, Maria Mathey ’14 Sydney Ferrara ’14
Catherine Kueny, grandmother of Carrie Kueny Vitamvas ’01, mother in law of Diane Finney Kueny ’76 and Denise O’Connor Kueny ’81
Patricia Feyerherm, grandmother of Jennifer Feyerherm Wehner ’00
Thomas D. Kumpf, grandfather of Erin Walter ’17 and father-in-law of Elizabeth Kinney Kumpf ’79
Mike Ward Fink, brother of Sally Fink Lund ’63 and Peggy Fink McGinn ’66 E. B. Floersch, husband of Denny Kennedy Floersch ’63; brother-in-law of Diana Kennedy ’65, Patty Kennedy Jurgensen ’70, Linda Kennedy ’72, Colleen Kennedy O’Hearn ’73 and uncle of Quinn Babe ’08 and Maddison Babe ’11 Lynn Grant Freer, father of Anita Freer Sacrey ’87 Olga Givens, grandmother of Susan Condon ’08
John Lanoha, grandfather of Julia Lanoha ’15 Sr. Mary Celeste Lawler, OSM Geraldine Leahy, mother of Kelly Leahy Anderson ’82 and grandmother of Maddie Anderson ’12 Marilyn LeClair, mother of Kathy LeClair Veys ’87 Betty Lee, grandmother of Megan Elizabeth Lee ’08 and Kathleen Lee Longanecker ’05 Frank Lefebvre, grandfather of Jennifer Vacek Dunbar ’01 and Kathyrn Vacek McMillan ’04
Jeanne Brusnahan, mother-in-law of faculty member Melissa Brusnahan
Paul Gradoville, DDS, father of Kathy Gradoville Wheeler ’74, Pam Gradoville Simon ’84; grandfather of Melissa Wheeler ’96 and uncle of Katie Gradoville Alitz ’81 and Amy Gradoville Kalina ’86
Margaret Rose Carlin, mother of Peggy Carlin ’72
Alphonse Grohman, grandfather of Laura Beschorner ’06 and Kathleen Bever ’15
Lyssa Milone Carnazzo, sister-in-law of Stephanie Weber Milone ’77
Myrna Grubb, grandmother of Christine Grubb ’02
Mary Ann Magnuson, mother-in-law of Sue Bellus Magnuson ’76 and grandmother of Sara Magnuson ’02
Mary Frances Cavel, the mother of current faculty member and Marian alumna, Connie Cavel ’68, Catherine Cavel Hinrichs ’69 and Mary Colleen Herman ’81; grandmother of Kara Cavel ’94, Michaela Cavel Hawley ’89, Shaela Cavel Wepfer ’92, Mary Hinrichs ’04, Maggie Hinrichs ’10 and granddaughter-inlaw of Rebecca Herbert Hinrichs ’03
James Heese, husband of Liz Salerno Heese ’67
Richard L. Martin, grandfather of Hannah Martin ’13
Mary Henney, mother of Cathy Henney Graham ’65, Alice Henney Schumacher ’70, Janet Henney Schawang ’74 and grandmother of Mary Schawang ’04
Roger McCarthy, father of Mary McCarthy Fleming ’71, Patty McCarthy Kolar ’72, Maureen McCarthy Reilly ’75 and Cathy McCarthy Anderson ’78
Mark Hermanek, father of Kate Hermanek ’01 and brother of Barb Hermanek Steffen ’60, Sue Hermanek Flynn ’64 and Linda Hermanek Daly ’67
Michael T. McGovern, brother of Carol McGovern Holtzman ’63, Pat McGovern ’65 and uncle of Jenny Holtzman ’00
Irvin “Joe” Chamberlain Jr., father in law of Kateri Beller Chamberlain ’95 Karen Conoan, mother of Trish Conoan McIntosh ’02 Jean Copenhaver ’78, sister of Mary Copenhaver Fitch ’82 , Susan Copenhaver ’83 and sister-in-law of Jennie Flynn Copenhaver ’93 Carol Costello, grandmother of Bailey Costello ’14 Larry Crider, uncle of Julie Connor Metz ’90 Josephine D’Agosto, grandmother of Julie D’Agosto ’00 and Katie D’Agosto ’02 Richard Delaney, grandfather of Moria Delaney ’12 and father-in-law of Diane Dickinson Delaney ’75 Richard Dreier, uncle of Amy Langenfeld Licata ’82, Gwen Langenfeld Sullivan ’83, Susan Langenfeld ’84, Jean Langenfeld Seitzer ’85, Maureen Langenfeld Billig ’86 and Mary Langenfeld ’87 Raymond Dundis, uncle of Judy Dundis Robak ’62, Mary Kay Dundis Lincoln ’66, Susan Dundis Prall ’67, Barb Dundis Weishapl ’71 and Terri Dundis Ellis ’76 Marge Evans, grandmother of Jen Edney ’01
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Linda K. Hess, aunt of Christine Ourada Wojtas ’85 Virginia Holoubek, aunt of Caroline Anderson ’07 and Jillian Anderson ’10 Michael Hoffman, uncle of Katie Hoffman ’12 and Sarah Hoffman ’12 Timothy Hopkins, brother in law of Jeanne Weiss Hopkins ’78 , uncle of Elizabeth Hopkins ’05 and Caitlin Hopkins ’07 Nyla Hussey, mother of Michele Hussey Anderson ’84 Kevin Anthony Janning, father of Brandi Janning Strohmeyer ’03 Joseph P. Kish, brother of Elizabeth Kish, former Marian Head of School Jerry Koob, father of Shannon Koob Serotsky ’87 and Sara Koob Jochim ’91 Joseph Kramer, brother in law of Anne Weber Kramer ’80 Joyce Kreski, grandmother of Rachael Kreski ’12 and Sara Kreski ’14
Carolyn Lodhia, grandmother of Megan Kelley ’10 and Katie Lodhia ’13 Irene Lungstrum, mother of Mary Lungstrum Oritz ’68
Daniel E. McGuire, father of Lee McGuire Belford ’71 Jack McMenamin, brother of Margaret McMenamin Frederick ’67 Gwanetha Metz, mother of Gwen Metz Neff, past faculty member, Kathy Metz Trenolone ’60, Stephanie Metz O’Keefe ’67 and grandmother of Andrea Metz Penney ’91 Harry Miers, Jr., grandfather of Patrice Miers ’03 Anthony Militti, grandfather of Michele Militti Mullins ’83 and Carroll Militti Hacker ’88
Rev. William Parker, CSsR, brother of Joan Parker Neuhaus ’69 and uncle of Kate Neuhaus ’04 Helen Parr, grandmother of Brigid Parr ’06 Dorothy Pattavina, mother of Lorine Pattavina Simpson ’70 Thomas Ramm, father of Connie Ramm Abdo ’77 and uncle of Mary Stroesser ’82 Mary Jane Ross, mother of Kathleen Ross Cravens ’72, Mary Irene Pojar ’74 and mother-in-law of Debbie Goodman Ross ’75 Lois Roubal, mother of Brea Roubal ’99 Charles Rush, husband of Cathy Marchese Rush ’68, father of Katie Rush Mendlick ’94, Debbie Rush ’95 and Kellie Rush Costello ’96 Carolyn Jean Schellhardt, aunt of Amy Adams ’91 and Marian Recruitment Director Molly Adams Woodman ’97 Lydia Sciscoe, grandmother of Courtney Sciscoe Jackson ’05 Sr. Margarita Simon, OSM John “Jack” Steenson, father-in-law of Kathy Christensen Steenson ’73 and grandfather of Katie Steenson Willis ’98, Molly Steenson ’03, Machaela Steenson ’05 and Annie Steenson ’14 Tottie Stewart, former Marian Attendance Secretary and grandmother of Kelsey Stewart ’09 Terence Sweeney, husband of Karen Howard Sweeney ’70 Carrie Szymanski, grandmother of Michaela Koopman ’03 Leo J Taylor, father of Debbie Taylor McAleer ’70, Mary Beth Taylor Doyle ’71, and Chris Taylor Crouch ’84 Christopher Tinley, uncle of Emily Gilmore ’03 Rose Ann Vaughan, grandmother of Linsey Sanchez ’15 John Verzani, father of Amy Verzani Allaman ’89 Rosemary Von Riesen, grandmother of Julia Von Riesen ’09 Charlotte Wager, grandmother of April Wager O’Connor ’96 Florence Walsh, mother of Connie Walsh Rumbaugh ’59
Michael Minarik father of Susan Minarik DePorte ’97
Madonna Warren, mother of Courtney Warren ’14
John Charles Mitchell, grandfather of Emily S. Mitchell ’09
Daniel Weekly, uncle of Erin Weekly ’06
Marian Alum, Maurine Hinchey Nuschy ’61, mother of Michele Nuschy Jarzynka ’83 and Noelle Nuschy Buscher ’84 Robert O’Neill, brother of Kathleen O’Neill ’68, Mary Ellen O’Neill Savory ’70 and Patricia O’Neill ’76
Phyllis White, mother of Janet White Powell ’75 James A. Wilmes, father of Sherry Wilmes ’65, Peggy Wilmes ’68, and Laura Wilmes Ramirez ’70 Margaret Mary Zbylut, grandmother of Colleen Zbylut ’05
CONGRATULATIONS, GRADUATES! Marian wishes to congratulate our 194 graduates, all of whom are continuing their education after graduation. The Class of 2014 received $18.9 million in scholarships to both private and public colleges and universities.
Class of 2014: Claire Mallory Adams* Arianna Isabel Alonso Gabrielle Christine Armendariz Jaime Dahir Aspen Hayley Rose Bacon Remy J. Baffert Alisha Marie Baginski* Maranda Michelle Beck* Alisa Marie Beduhn* Molly Elizabeth Beelman Kristin Anne Belitz* Jillian Ann Bettger Natalie Ann Bialas Samantha Ari Bianchi* Emily Anne Birkel* Marisa Anne Bohlim* Courtney Paige Boler* Madison Ann Bonnett Aubrie Ann Bosilevac Sarah Noel Brashear* Ryan Elizabeth Broniecki ChaRae Monique Brown Sarah AnnaMarie Brown* Elizabeth Grace Brueggemann Julie Marie Brumbach Laura Elizabeth Burnett* Helen Maher Burns Allison Marie Buser* Madeline Grace Carlisle Jocelyn Marie Carter* Maria Gerard Casey Shannon Page Casey Christina Marie Chapman* Sara Ann Cipolla* Bailey Quinn Anne Costello* Madeline Rose Crowdy Alexis Renee Crowther Adelaide Kathleen Curley* Andrea Grace Dai Abigail Christine Davis*
Laura Skutt Davis Lindsey Ann Decker Laura Marie Domet* Mackenzie Annmarie Duce Simone Allegra Duryea Alexa Rae Edwards Madeline Ann Edwards Madeline Marie Elliston Elizabeth Anne Erftmier Rachel Marie Ervin Julianne Louise Faur* Rachel Alina Fedorko Sydney Carol Ferrara Logan Rae Findley Emma Lei Finken Antonia Marie Franco* Megan Jasmine Frederes* Honor Anastasia Fredrick* Morgan Lee Frodyma Sarah Christine Frodyma Mary Hanna Fuxa* Samantha Ann Gardner* Alyssa Marie Gebhart* Margaret Mary Gell Ann Susan Gensichen* Rose Elizabeth Gensichen* Sarah Nicole Geske* Jenna Marie Gouger Madalyn Frances Grace* Madeline Marie Graeve Maren Marie Haddad Elizabeth Kathleen Hahn Bridget Elizabeth Hake Amalia Kristine Hansen* Amelia Rose Hansen Molly Marie Harrison* Marian Janae Heaney* Emma Suzanne Henderson* Caroline Grace Hendricks* Margaret Marie Herold*
Hannah Claire Hertel* Emily Margaret Hobza Alexa Ryann Horn* Kaitlin Marie Houlton* Abigail Carmen Incontro Kristen Marie Jansen* Jennifer Lynne Jurek* Manisha Kalaga Ashlyn Nicole Kampschneider* Bailey Marie Kelly Madison Marie Kenney* Jane Elizabeth Kilgore* Hannah Elizabeth Knight Kristen Paige Koley* Lauren Makenzie Koperski* Kylie April Krager Sara Nicole Kreski* Anna Christine Krettek* Abbie Jayne Kubat* Baylie Marie Kudlacz Hannah Rose Lajba* Kelly Ann Landen* Meghan Kathleen Langdon Elena Joycelle Lisko Taylor Cole Witt Long* Morgan Kay Lubeck* Casey Nayse Mainelli Monica Nicole Marasco* Maria Suzanne Mathey Samantha Nicole Mayfield Erin Elizabeth McClellan* Margaret Marie McKeon* Haylea Rose McNeil Nicole Marie Meisenbach Rachel Amelia Metzler* Reilly Erin Meyer Haley Jayne Minnick* Morgan Alexandra Mitchell* Lindsay Christina Moran Bailee Ryan Moylan
Nora Elizabeth Neary* Hannah Marie Nelson* Sloan Sheedy Nelson* Lori Marie Nevole* Carly Rose Novacek* Sydney Elizabeth O’Shaughnessy Emily Jane Oldaker Lauren Elise Olson Marissa Lyn Pakiz Roni Shelley Josol Perez Kara Te Pickett Megan Elizabeth Powell Abigail Lynn Pritchard Toni Ann Ptacek Emily Marie Rakoczy* Miranda Lee Reeder* Rachael Mae Reiner* Haley Erin Reznicek Jaime Mae Rice Mary Kathryn Rigatuso Elizabeth Ashley Ryan Mikayla Kristen Sahm* Cienna Carole Salerno Jillian Anne Salerno Mary Ellin Samuelson Araya Rose Santo Drew Bailey Scherer Madeline Naomi Schimonitz Cassidy Rae Schlosser* Kenzie Lauren Schumacher* Meghan Shea Schumacher* Mary Paige Searl Barbara Eileen Sheldrick Connor Rae Silvey* Shannon Embry Smith* Monica Lynn Spence* Alexandra Paige Spongberg Anne Jiamei Steenson* Megan Marie Steffes* Marian Rose Steier
Caroline Jean Steinauer* Alexandrea Kathleen Stock Shea Elizabeth Stromer Michaela Anne Stuart Victoria Anne Stuckey Megan Elizabeth Stuva* Morgan Claire Sullivan* Sarah Corrin Sullivan Paige Ann Taylor* Molly Claire Tessmer* Lauren Christine Tondl* Ellen Rose Townley* Alexandrea Marie Trujillo Chiwengo Tridia Tshimanga Emma Colleen Tuttle Ashley Nicole Tylski* Amanda Marie Van Buren Kelsey Jo Van Osdel Erin Kathryn Violi Katherine Anne Vosik Sarah Marie Wangler* Courtney Rae Warren* Madisen Kay Waters* Evyn Elizabeth Watts* MacKenzie Elizabeth Wenck Tamarrah Lola Wernsman Elizabeth Ann Wiggs Margaret Dolan Witzenburg* Amanda Keery Wolf Sydney Allison Wolf* Madeline Leigh Worth* Rachel Joan Wortmann Molly Marie Zabawa* Anastasia Rose Zuerlein *National Honor Society
Our graduates were accepted to the following schools: American University Arcadia University Arizona State University Aurora University Ave Maria University Avila University Baldwin-Wallace University Ball State University Baruch College Baylor University Belmont University Benedictine College Benedictine University Black Hills State University Boston College Bradley University Brigham Young University Butler University Chadron State College City of New York University Clarkson College Clemson University Coastal Carolina University College of St. Benedict College of St. Mary Colorado School of Mines Colorado State University Columbia College - Chicago Creighton University DePaul Theatre School DePaul University Drake University Drexel University Fairfield University Fashion Institute of Technology Fordham University George Washington University
Georgetown University Gonzaga University Grace University Gustavus Adolphus College Hastings College Hillsdale College Humboldt State University Indiana University Iona College Iowa State University John Carroll University Kansas State University Lawrence University Loyola Marymount University Loyola University - Chicago Loyola University - New Orleans Marquette University Maryville University Meredith College Metro Community College Miami University - Ohio Midland University Millikin University Minnesota State University Missouri University of Science & Technology Mount Marty College Nebraska Methodist College Nebraska Wesleyan University New York University North Carolina State University Northeastern Ohio College of Medicine Northern Arizona University Northwest Missouri State University Northwestern Preparatory Oregon State University Penn State University Peru State College
Purdue University Regis University Rockhurst University Roosevelt University Santa Clara University Seattle University Seton Hall University South Dakota School of Mines South Dakota State University Southern Methodist University Spring Hill College St. Joseph’s College St. Louis University St. Mary’s University Stephen F. Austin State University Stony Brook University Syracuse University Texas A & M University Texas Christian University Texas Tech University Trinity College University of Alabama - Tuscaloosa University of Arizona University of California - Los Angeles University of Chicago University of Colorado University of Colorado - Boulder University of Colorado - Colorado Springs University of Colorado - Denver University of Dayton University of Denver University of Evansville University of Illinois University of Indiana - Bloomington University of Iowa University of Ireland - Galway University of Kansas
University of Massachusettes University of Miami University of Minnesota University of Missouri University of Nebraska - Kearney University of Nebraska - Lincoln University of Nebraska - Omaha University of North Carolina University of North Carolina - Wilmington University of Portland University of Richmond University of Rochester University of San Diego University of San Francisco University of Sioux Falls University of South Carolina University of South Dakota University of St. Mary University of St. Thomas University of Tampa University of Tulsa University of Utah Ursinus College Vanderbilt University Villanova University Washington State University Wayne State College Webster University Western Illinois University William Woods University Xavier University York College
MARIAN ∙ 7400 MILITARY AVENUE ∙ OMAHA, NE 68134 402.571.2618 ∙ www.marianhighschool.net
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Marian 7400 Military Avenue Omaha, NE 68134
Scan the QR code shown at left with your smart phone to access current news at Marian.
IMPORTANT DATES TO REMEMBER
Contacts
Alumnae Reunion Weekend June 27-29
Freshman Orientation Aug. 12
Co-Principals Rochelle Rohlfs Kathy Tompkins
Alumnae Mass and Reception June 29 • 11 a.m.
First Day of School Aug. 13
Lexus Champions for Marian Golf Tournament July 14 Indian Creek Golf Course
Walk-A-Thon Sept. 26 • 8 a.m.
Athletic Hall of Fame Banquet Aug. 2 • 6 p.m.
2014 Marian Musical: Disney’s The Little Mermaid Oct. 30 & 31, Nov. 1 & 8 • 7 p.m. Nov. 2 & 9 • 2 p.m.
Class of 2014 Yearbook Signing Party Aug. 8 • 3 to 5 p.m.
Marian’s Open House Nov. 23 • Noon to 2:30 p.m.
Director of Advancement Sarah Jank ’01 402.571.2618, ext. 1119 sjank@omahamarian.org Director of Alumnae Relations Nancy Kettering Casey ’82 402.571.2618, ext. 1270 ncasey@omahamarian.org Transcript Requests Mary Berger Steiner ’82 402.571.2618, ext. 1127 msteiner@omahamarian.org Prayer Needs prayerrequests@omahamarian.org
Faces of Marian Orientation Aug. 9 • 7 a.m. to 11 a.m.
For more information about any of these events, please visit Marian’s website at www.marianhighschool.net
Stay in touch with all things Marian through our social media websites! We’ll keep you up to date on events, news and information at Marian. Like us on Facebook: Marian High School, Omaha, NE Follow us on Twitter: @OmahaMarian Connect with us on LinkedIn: Marian High School Follow us on Instagram: omahamarian View more photos on Flickr: omahamarian
The Marian Magazine is published three times per year through the Marian Advancement Department. Please report any address changes and corrections to: Kaitlin O’Hara Ahart ’05 Editor Marian 7400 Military Avenue Omaha, NE 68134 402.571.2618, ext. 1137 Fax: 402.571.2978 kahart@omahamarian.org