Spring 2013
The Magazine of Sacred Heart Academy
Excelsior WHO has gone farthest? for I would go farther, And who has been just? for I would be the most just person of the earth, And who most cautious? for I would be more cautious, And who has been happiest? O I think it is I – I think no one was ever happier than I, And who has lavish’d all? for I lavish constantly the best I have, And who proudest? for I think I have reason to be the proudest son alive – for I am the son of the brawny and tall-topt city, And who has been bold and true? for I would be the boldest and truest being of the universe, And who benevolent? for I would show more benevolence than all the rest, And who has receiv’d the love of the most friends? for I know what it is to receive the passionate love of many friends, And who possesses a perfect and enamour’d body? for I do not believe any one possesses a more perfect or enamour’d body than mine, And who thinks the amplest thoughts ? for I would surround those thoughts, And who has made hymns fit for the earth? for I am mad with devouring ecstasy to make joyous hymns for the whole earth. - Walt Whitman
Issue
In this 3
From the President
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Kairos Retreats: Living the Message of Christ
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Excelsior Women, Excelsior Teachers
A Celebration of
Excelsior Women
Nearly buried in poet Walt Whitman’s 19th century masterpiece, Leaves of Grass, lies one of his lesser known poems, “Excelsior.” In this short piece, Whitman’s speaker asks his readers twelve questions, including “Who has gone farthest?” and “And who has been just?” Despite the ambiguity in the speaker’s address, these questions are not rhetorical in nature. For, just as the speaker asks, “And who has been the happiest?” so he responds, “O I think it is I—I think no / one was ever happier than I.” Perhaps, some would criticize his boldness, his arrogance to think himself most worthy, most kind, most loved; but others would commend his passion, his perseverance, his potential. Readers are being challenged to live up to their potential, to always be their personal best. The parallel between Whitman’s message and the mission of Sacred Heart Academy emerges in this call to excellence, in this flutter of energy and expectation. As “Excelsior” continues we see the speaker’s questions blossoming in their complexity and his answers blooming with confidence and song. Our speaker finally asks, “And who has made hymns fit for the earth?” His answer not only concludes the poem but also empowers the reader to look deeply within herself, to find her own passions, and, perhaps most importantly, to share them with the world. So boasts the speaker, “for I am mad / with devouring ecstasy to make joyous hymns for the / whole earth.” Through his illustrious language, the speaker has proven himself a master of song, of grace, of so very many things. He has answered the world and has promised to heap thanksgiving upon the earth that has blessed him so. So, we too should celebrate the goodness of humanity, the friendship, compassion, and love that exist all around us, and indeed, within us. Together, we celebrate the core of Sacred Heart Academy, Excelsior Women.
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The Class of 1961 Reconnects through Reunion
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Alumnae Inspire Students
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Around the Academy
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Building on Excellence
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Office of Mission Advancement
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Strong Bonds
HEART magazine is published by Sacred Heart Academy for alumnae, parents, past parents, and friends of Sacred Heart Academy. Send address changes to the Office of Alumnae Relations, Sacred Heart Academy, 265 Benham Street, Hamden, CT 06514 or alumnae@sacredhearthamden.org. Sacred Heart Academy admits students of any race, creed, national or ethnic origin, and handicapped status to all the rights, privileges and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate in these areas in the administration of its educational policies, scholarship and loan programs, athletic or other school-administered programs.
Magazine Spring 2013 Sr. Sheila O’Neill, ASCJ, Ph.D., ’71 President Sr. Maureen Flynn, ASCJ, ’81 Principal Managing Editor Beth Griffin Director of Public Relations Editor Allyson Wuerth Design EP Graphic Design ı Elizabeth Parker Cover and major photography Cronin Photography ı Cheryl Cronin ’84 Contributing Writers Debbie Camner Director of Mission Advancement Alora Caraglio ’08 Web Administrator/Online Communications Coordinator Beth Griffin Director of Public Relations Sr. Mariette Moan, ASCJ, ’77 Director of Alumnae Relations Contributing Photographers Elizabeth Christophy, Ph.D. Kim Wilson Cunningham ’03 Sara Fagan ’15 Sr. Maureen Flynn, ASCJ, ’81 Joan Kelly Hall ’71 Angel Lanouette Kathy McDonough McGarry ’77 Danielle McPherson ’13 Sr. Judith Musco, ASCJ, ’61 ORTV Elizabeth Parker Kierstin Sieser Angie Stong ’14 Storytellers Photography Rebecca V. Tower Allyson Wuerth Danielle Zito ’96 Cover photo Sr. Sheila O’Neill, ASCJ, Ph.D., ’71 Cheryl Cronin ‘84 Photographer
In the words of Mother Clelia
“Love your work; perform it with joy. Do not allow yourself to become discouraged by difficulties, lack of success, or humdrum daily duties. Be convinced that this is your mission and you will make God better loved.” –Mother Clelia Merloni
From the President
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lthough they might not yet realize it, “deep graven” on the hearts of all Sacred Heart Academy students is the determination to fulfill the role of the Excelsior Woman. Throughout the school year we witness our students building, growing, and learning. Some are brilliant thinkers, others are always willing to lend a helping hand; whatever their passion may be, today’s students are the Excelsior Women of tomorrow. As you will read in this edition of HEART, alumnae model this standard long after they graduate. I hope you find their stories as inspirational as I have. As I look back on yet another wonderful school year, I am once again reminded of the grace and talent that thrive within the walls of our school. One of the highlights of this year was our first Kairos retreat for seniors. We believe this experience imbues our young women with a deeper understanding of the Excelsior Woman, who “commits to be an active participant in her faith community.” Because the program is student led, six seniors, along with faculty members Jeanne Mazzariello ’78 and Sr. Mariette Moan, ASCJ, ’77 traveled to St. Louis, Missouri, in October, to make their first Kairos with our Apostle sister school, Cor Jesu Academy. These six students then became the leaders of SHA Kairos 1, along with Jeanne Mazzariello , Kathy Gniadek, Sr. Mariette Moan, ASCJ, Sr. Mary Jane Paolella, ASCJ, ’65, and me. Six juniors also joined the retreat, in preparation to be the team leaders of Kairos 2, next year. Also, this spring, our Drama Club wrote its own interpretation of the Excelsior Woman. Students offered workshops for incoming students, and presented dramatic interpretations of our alumnae who exemplify what it means to be an Excelsior Woman. Their extraordinary effort made Sr. Maureen Flynn, ASCJ, ’81 and me feel so proud of our young women and of our alumnae. While the students have been vibrant and blessedly productive, so have we! We have now completed the third year of our Building on Excellence plan. This process began in the spring of 2011 and included over one hundred alumnae, parents, and friends who were invited to dream about the future of the Academy. It is the guide we continue to embrace as we face the challenges of being a 21st century educational institution.
The Excelsior Woman is one who is impelled by the love of Christ to live authentically and passionately. . .
I want to thank you for your loyal and generous support of Sacred Heart Academy. What a caring community of faculty and staff, students and parents, alumnae, and friends. Each group is an essential element of our growth and ongoing success. We thank God each day for you. Gratefully in the Heart of Christ,
Sr. Sheila O’Neill, ASCJ, Ph.D., ’71 President Sacred Heart Academy
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“Kairos empowers teenagers with a very strong sense of their relationships with God, with families, and with friends. This experience fosters Christian compassion for all human beings. They see, through this journey of life, that God’s love is everywhere.” – Sr. Sheila O’Neill, ASCJ, Ph.D., ’71
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Kairos Retreats: Living the Message of Christ
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reek for “God’s time,” or “the opportune time,” Kairos retreats have come to Sacred Heart Academy. Kairos retreat structure includes three and a half days of group prayer, listening and responding to group discussion, and sacraments. All Kairos retreats follow this same rhythm, always in step with time and process, as defined by the term Kairos itself. Each day incorporates the teachings and reflections of the day before it, creating a fluent exploration of one’s experience with Christ. Day 1 asks, Who am I?; Day 2, Who is Jesus in my life?; and Day 3 asks participants to decode Christ’s unique message to them. The fourth day of retreat calls for participants to live out those first three days of retreat, to put into action the teachings of Christ. Because students must stay focused on reflection and prayer, there is very little communication with the outside world. Students are encouraged to trust themselves and to trust God, without the distractions of society. In August, Kairos coordinator Jeanne Mazzariello ’78 began meeting and preparing with students Claudia Krah ’13, Liana Paglia ’13, Nicole Brown ’13, Sarah Rybacki ’13, Rachel Delvy ’13, and Andrea Grammatico ’13 for our first Kairos. Since our sister school, Cor Jesu Academy in St. Louis, Missouri, has held more than forty retreats, our group, along with senior theology teacher Sr. Mariette Moan, ASCJ, ’77 traveled to Cor Jesu to attend their Kairos 41 retreat and prepare for Sacred Heart’s Kairos 1 retreat. Elaborates Nicole Brown ’13, “Kairos was an incredible experience. Mrs. Mazzariello encouraged us to approach the retreat with an open mind and an open heart. It was better than I had imagined and it surpassed all of my expectations! I believe the spirit and the energy of Kairos will touch the Sacred Heart community in a powerful and positive way.” Jeanne Mazzariello, coordinator of our Kairos program agrees, “I am so excited that Sr. Sheila O’Neill, ASCJ, Ph.D. ‘71 in her belief of and confidence in the beauty and value of this very particular retreat experience, has chosen to bring it into our community and to offer it to our students. This particular point in a young person’s life offers an opportune time for her to take a deeper look within herself as well as her relationship with God and with others.” One of the most wonderful aspects of Kairos is that it is specifically designed for young people, taking into account their concerns, motivations, and unique perspectives on life. Shares Claudia Krah ’13, “Kairos by no means made me a different person. Instead, I came to a much closer understanding of the person that I have been created to be. In knowing myself and understanding this love that surrounds and supports me, I feel much stronger in my convictions and therefore feel much more confident living the truth of my faith.” Indeed, the students who made the Kairos 41 retreat at Cor Jesu, returned as leaders for SHA’s Kairos 1 retreat at the Immaculata Retreat House in Windsor, Connecticut; they facilitated group
Sr. Sheila O’Neill, ASCJ, Ph.D., ’71 and Jeanne Mazzariello ’78 pictured with seniors Kathleen Kelly and Bernice Kwashie (sitting).
discussion and led their peers in prayer. Rachel Delvy ’13 offers, “It was great getting to see my SHA sisters have just as strong an experience as I had in St. Louis.” Carla Ciaramella ’13 agreed with Rachel, “Kairos was a really good opportunity to learn more about myself and about all my classmates.” Principal Sr. Maureen Flynn, ASCJ, ’81 met with students from Kairos 1 and shared, “I was able to pray with students and faculty at a beautiful liturgy upon their return to school and then listen to their reflections. I am so grateful to faculty leaders Jeanne Mazzariello, Sr. Mariette, Sr. Sheila, Sr. Mary Jane Paolella, ASCJ, ’65, and Kathy Gniadek, for dedicating their time and talents to enable our students to enjoy this experience.”
Kairos and College ı Alumna Caitlin Axtmayer ’10 attended a Kairos retreat at Boston College, where she is currently a junior. “I went on Kairos this past semester and I loved it. It was an incredibly centering experience in the midst of the craziness of college. Kairos will be a wonderful addition to the retreat program at SHA. I know this will be a formative experience for the girls, and I wish I could have experienced it in high school. Those who have experienced Kairos leave the retreat with a deepened perspective of just how loved they are and what a force for love they can be in the world. I’m glad that Sacred Heart, a community that is already so full of love, is sharing in this experience.” Sacred Heart Academy
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Excelsior Women, Excelsior Teachers
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xcelsior Women, indeed! Sacred Heart Academy celebrates a rich history of educating the future teachers of the world. In fact, more than five hundred alumnae have gone on to become educators. Here, we highlight just a few of our Excelsior teachers! Whether they are educating very young children or young adults, these alumnae have dedicated their lives to shaping the future generations of our society. Using differentiated instruction and recognizing the whole student, each allows for the growth of her students and imparts the knowledge that there are many pathways to success.
“Art is about learning basic steps and techniques that give every student a foundation to create.” – Kate Conlon Van Wilgen ’03
Danielle Zito ’96 gathers her class for a “Green Day” photograph.
Danielle Zito ’96 Lays the Foundation Even as a child, Danielle Zito ’96 knew she wanted to work with children. It was while she attended college at Salve Regina in Newport, Rhode Island that she fell in love with early childhood education. Indeed, shortly after graduating, Danielle accepted the position of preschool teacher at Davis St. Arts and Academics Interdistrict Magnet School in New Haven. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Danielle is also the vice president of the Davis St. PTA. Shares Danielle, “Early childhood educators lay the foundation for years of learning and development. I try to instill a love for school in my preschool students.” Danielle’s own love for learning led her to The Graduate Institute, in Bethany, Connecticut, an institution of higher learning that prides itself on experiential learning and
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student-driven curriculum. Here, Danielle earned her master’s degree in oral traditions in 2007, and that same year welcomed her daughter Madison, currently a kindergartner at Davis St. School. Danielle’s love for teaching and for her small students is evident in her cheery classroom with its designated centers for differentiated instruction. Along the walls of her classroom are friendship projects and the sweet artwork of three and four year olds: snowmen, hearts, stick-figure illustrations of the people they love—these walls breathe the beauty and innocence of children, the magic of childhood. “I love spending my days with them, seeing the look of amazement in my students’ eyes. Many preschool experiences are about learning and discovering things for the first time,” shares Danielle.
Hands-on learning is a strategy Danielle fondly recalls of her time at Sacred Heart: “One of my favorite memories at SHA was my junior year trip to Spain. It was my first time traveling internationally. I experienced a different culture and it gave me the opportunity to use a language I studied.” Her interest extended well beyond the classroom, as she also involved herself in a Sacred Heart service trip to a New York City school. Says Danielle, “We helped clean the school and visited and talked with students. It was so rewarding!” Now Danielle offers her own students the opportunity to experience the world that lies before them. Recently, she engaged her students in a lesson about the five senses. She elaborates, “Popping popcorn with a hot air popper teaches my preschoolers about their five senses in a fun, hands-on way. I love seeing them experience those moments!”
Kate Conlon Van Wilgen ’03 Inspires her Middle School Students to Create Anyone who has seen a Sacred Heart Academy musical knows the time and talent put into set design. The colors are vibrant, the imagery is realistic, and the props appear expertly crafted. And while the actors dazzle
on stage, the students, parents, and teachers who spent long hours painting, imagining, and building can finally sit back and reap the fruits of their labors. Kate Conlon Van Wilgen ’03 was one of those students behind the scenes, and her experience became as indelible as paint itself, creating a clear picture of the bright future ahead. Kate elaborates, “I actually decided to become an art teacher my senior year at Sacred Heart. I was on the paint crew for our school musicals all four years. I happened to be showing a younger student how to create a faux brick pattern when former art teacher, Mrs. Anne Marie Merrill, suggested that I would make a great art teacher. I initially scoffed at the idea but the more I thought about it, I realized that art is something I am passionate about.” After earning her BA from Assumption College, Kate began teaching art at Harry M. Bailey Middle School in West Haven and then earned her MS in art education from Southern Connecticut State University. Two years later, Kate began teaching art to middle school students at North Branford Intermediate School, where she still teaches today. “I have the pleasure of showing my middle school students, who often think they are not good at art, that they can be successful and create projects they never dreamed possible,” adds Kate. In addition to teaching, Kate, newly married to husband Ryan, works on set design for school plays at North Branford Intermediate and makes herself available after school to students who desire extra lessons in art. Offers Kate, “Art is about learning basic steps and techniques that give every student a foundation to create.”
Joan Kelly Hall, Ph.D., ’71 Prepares a New Generation of World Language Teachers Inspired by her Spanish teacher, Mrs. Marion Lee, Dr. Joan Kelly Hall graduated in 1971 and later earned a degree in Spanish from Trinity College in Burlington, Vermont. After marrying husband Bill and giving
Joan Kelly Hall, Ph.D. ’71 is truly a life-long learner.
birth to daughters Kate and Kelly, Joan completed her MS in TESL (Teaching English as a Second Language) and a doctorate in educational theory and practice from SUNY Albany. Joan then became a professor at University of Georgia, where she prepared the next generation of world language and ESL teachers. Currently, she is the Director of the Center for Research on English Language Learning and Teaching and serves as Executive Director of the Intensive English Communication Program at Penn State University in State College, Pennsylvania. Joan also serves as President of the American Association for Applied Linguistics, the largest professional organization for applied linguistics in the world. Now, Joan works primarily with graduate students, apprenticing them as they enter into the field of applied linguistics. Despite her obvious acumen in her field, Joan is still humbled by her students: “My greatest challenge is two-fold: in the ever-increasing globalized world, staying connected to the diverse cultural worlds of my students and understanding who they are as individuals and students is so much more complex than it used to be. Thank goodness my students are very patient teachers.”
Elaborates Joan, “At Sacred Heart, my teachers were so very nurturing. They instilled in me several qualities that have been instrumental in my success as a teacher/ scholar. They empowered me to believe in myself, to be strong, and to be fair. They did this through their own modeling of these qualities in their interactions with me. They provided me with ample opportunities, in and outside of class, to become intellectually disciplined in my own thinking. I learned, for example, how to observe, question, look for answers, reflect, and evaluate. And I learned how to speak with confidence about what I was learning.” Certainly, these are the skills that last a lifetime, skills that Sacred Heart Academy teachers work hard to impress upon their students. Adds Joan, “How many people can say that they loved every minute of high school? I can, because I did. Every minute, every day, thanks to all the loving, nurturing teachers and thanks to all the strong, wonderful women who were my classmates. ‘The strong bonds formed at S-H-A will ne’er in life be broken’ is absolutely true. I’m a lucky woman!” - continued
Sacred Heart Academy
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Perhaps the greatest credit to a school is when its alumnae choose to return and help shape another generation of young people. 8
Our Own Excelsior Teachers
Our own inspirational group of educators poses in these two photos taken in the Mary and James DiMeo Library.
Once a SHA Girl. . . Who better to represent high school educators than our own team of talented teachers who also happened to attend Sacred Heart Academy? Currently, Sacred Heart Academy boasts sixteen alumnae as members of the faculty and staff including, President Sr. Sheila O’Neill, ASCJ, Ph.D., ’71, Principal Sr. Maureen Flynn, ASCJ, ’81, math teacher and Dean of Student Activities Sr. Judith Musco, ASCJ, ’61, science teacher Sr. Mary Jane Paolella, ASCJ ’65, theology teacher and Alumnae Director Sr. Mariette Moan, ASCJ, ’77, theology teacher Sr. Mary Anne Sharron, ASCJ, ’64, theology teacher Sr. Luisa Villegas, ASCJ, ’91, former French teacher and Director of Admissions Elaine Mastagni Lamboley ’60, physical education teacher Kim Cramer Curbow ’81, math teacher Carole Stackpole ’67, theology teacher and Pastoral Counselor Jeanne Lawlor Mazzariello ’78, English teacher Nicole Cormier Beaudwin ’99, history teacher Eileen Halloran ’04, librarian Karen Walsh Reidy ’74, business assistant Margaret Rose Rybacki ’81, and web administrator/online communications coordinator Alora Caraglio ’08. Representing five decades of Sacred Heart Academy and nearly every discipline we have to offer, these talented women have dedicated themselves to the education of the next generation of graduates. And although each embarked upon a different path after her own graduation, all those paths led back to the school they love so much. Shares Eileen Halloran ’04, “I had amazing teachers at SHA. They weren’t just smart; they were passionate, dedicated, and really concerned about their students. I always loved learning, but at SHA, I learned to love school, which probably explains why I can’t seem to leave. When I was doing my graduate work, I spent time in a number of different schools, and none of them was quite as right as SHA.
Just before Christmas, one of the social studies teachers left, and Sr. Maureen called me. I started in January, 2012. When I told my friends, no one was surprised.” Carole Stackpole ’67 echoes Eileen’s appreciation of her SHA education: “I had four wonderful math teachers when I was a student here. They encouraged me to excel.” The influence of SHA teachers extends well beyond coursework to a student’s spiritual life. So was the experience of Sr. Mary Anne Sharron, ASCJ, ’64 who has taught at SHA for the last 16 years: “The Sisters who taught me had a definite influence on my decision to enter religious life. They cared about the students and seemed very happy. All of my teachers, both religious and lay, were people who cared about their students and I wanted to imitate them.” It is this caring and nurturing environment that attracts so many students to our school. In fact, it was the Sacred Heart’s promise to educate the whole student that led Nicole Cormier Beaudwin ’99 to the Academy as a freshman in 1995. After earning her degree and staying home with her three small boys, Nicole decided to return to SHA as an English teacher. Shares Nicole, “I first interviewed for a three-month substitute opening in 2008, excited for an opportunity to return to my alma mater and discuss literature with young women. The temporary placement eventually led to a permanent position where I am fortunate to work daily with a dynamic group of teens and my fellow teachers.” Perhaps the greatest credit to a school is when its alumnae choose to return and help shape another generation of young people. As we prepare our students for college, we can only hope that their high school experience will have as great an impact on them as it has had on our alumnae teachers. Sacred Heart Academy
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The Class of 1961 Reconnects through Reunion
The members of the Class of 1961 smile at the bright future ahead...
Times may have changed, but these alumnae prove that “The strong bonds formed at S-H-A will ne’er in life be broken...”
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eunions, by definition, unite those who were previously parted by time or circumstance; they bridge the gap that inevitably results from the accumulation of years. Proving that “The strong bonds formed at S-H-A will ne’er in life be broken,” members of the Class of 1961 have truly embodied these eloquent words of our alma mater. Offers Sr. Judith Musco, ASCJ, ’61, “This past year I spent time with nine of my classmates planning our 50th reunion and we had a great time reconnecting.” These nine classmates of the Class of 1961 of whom Sr. Judith speaks include Betty Ann Cacace Donegan, Gerri Caciopoli Rienzi, Carole Mongillo, Barbara Ricciardi Guarniere, Alva Rosadino Forte, Carole Thompson Holm, Barbara Tracchio Romano,
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Judy Votto Piazza, and Pattie Wheeler Dallai. This group of women reconnected and planned their 50th reunion celebration at the home of Betty Ann Cacace Donegan, who currently runs her own cooking school. Their preparations led to the celebration that took place June 4, 2011 at the Pine Orchard Country Club, fifty years to the day of their Sacred Heart Academy graduation. Shares Carole Holm Thompson, Clinical Research Nurse Coordinator for Yale University School of Medicine, “I didn’t see my classmates in between our reunions, but good friends can always pick up where they left off.” Sr. Judith, currently Dean of Student Activities and a math teacher at the Academy, agrees, “Planning our reunion was a wonderful experience that brought us all together to share our memories.”
...and now the comfortable smiles of well-lived lives.
Indeed, the women had such a productive gathering that they even created a special scrapbook to honor the memories of their high school years. This scrapbook includes the yearbook photograph of each classmate, an update on each classmate, and some special recollections. For example, Carole Mongillo remembers the change from “bobby socks and saddle shoes to brown knee-high socks and loafers” while Pattie Wheeler Dallai recalls “the Corettes, talking and talking on the school bus, laughing over lunch, detention on Fridays, and the prom!” Barbara Tracchio Romano, a special education teacher at ACES in Hamden, shares, “The strong bonds formed at SHA are truly part of the fabric of my life. I am happy that my daughters and granddaughters were able to share similar experiences at Sacred Heart Academy.” In addition to teaching, Barbara serves on the Alumnae Association as the leadership team representative for the reunion committee. She adds, “This position was newly instituted by Sr. Mariette Moan, ASCJ, ’77 in order to assist class representatives in planning their reunions.” Says Barbara, “For our 50th reunion in
2011, we worked tirelessly to make the event a special one. The fruits of our labor produced a wonderfully memorable event with more than forty members of our class in attendance.” Barbara’s hope is that other classes will share in the camaraderie of the Class of 1961, reconnecting through reunion.
“...knee-high socks and loafers...the Corettes, talking and talking on the school bus, laughing over lunch, detention on Fridays, and the prom!” – Carole Mongillo ’61 and Pattie Wheeler Dallai ’61
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Alumnae Inspire Students
Mary Carney ’56
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Sr. Jerilyn Hunihan, ASCJ, ’73
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n February, Sr. Mariette Moan, ASCJ, ’77 invited Mary Carney ’56 to speak to her senior theology classes about end-of- life issues. Mary, who attended Yale Divinity School, worked for nearly fifty years as a hospice nurse. She shared stories about her nursing days with students, and reminded students to always be kind to people, since it is difficult to guess what they have been through in life. Shared one student, “Ms. Carney had such a unique perspective on hospice care. While it’s not work I would want to do, it’s so important and I’m so glad people like Ms. Carney are here to mitigate the suffering of others.” Mary cited Sacred Heart’s core value of social justice and her teachers for inspiring in her a passion for nursing. Instrumental in the founding of hospice care, Mary shares, “Hospice brings together patient, family, and medical personnel. We wanted to make hospice a place where people could be comfortable and still find enjoyment.” Whether enjoyment was born from a much craved lobster dinner or a heartfelt chat, Mary’s primary concern was always the comfort of her patients. She adds, “There’s a lot of life in hospice even as people are preparing to die.”
Her patients appreciated being treated with dignity and respect, as they were before illness overcame them. Mary’s words reminded students how important it is to respect each person, no matter how ephemeral his life may be.
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n addition to a visit from Mary Carney ’56, Sr. Mariette’s theology classes were also treated to a visit from Sr. Jerilyn Hunihan, ASCJ, ’73. Sr. Jerilyn serves as chaplain in both Hartford Correctional Center and Walker Correctional Institute in Suffield. Offers Sr. Jerilyn, “In 1997, while I was teaching at Sacred Heart, I volunteered and tutored teenage inmates at the New Haven Correctional Center. Then in 2007, I became a chaplain at the Hartford Correctional Center.” Despite the conditions that surround her, Sr. Jerilyn finds her position among the incarcerated to be humbling: “Many men with whom I work have survived trauma and sadness from their childhood. I am humbled by their gratitude and desire to know God better and to trust in His care for them.” She encourages the men to find beauty in life, even though the walls of a prison seem antithetical to the very notion of beauty. “I decided to use music, poetry, art, photography, and even plants as mediums of beauty.” She fosters
“Listening to a man who is awaiting trial or sentencing and giving him the space to know God’s unconditional love is one of the most sacred experiences in my ministry.” – Sr. Jerilyn Hunihan, ASCJ , ’73 awareness that true beauty comes from within; through journaling, discussion, and prayer, Sr. Jerilyn hopes the men find the beauty within themselves. Senior Yasmine Shreiteh, who was present at Sr. Jerilyn’s classroom talk, stated, “Sr. Jerilyn really made me reconsider what I always believed about prisoners. She made us see the humanity that is still in them, the fact that they are people who seek forgiveness just like we do.” Adds Sr. Jerilyn, “For me, Jesus is most palpable in those who find themselves behind the walls of our prisons and in those prisons that we build within our own minds and hearts. Listening to a man who is awaiting trial or sentencing and giving him the space to know God’s unconditional love is one of the most sacred experiences in my ministry.” Sacred Heart Academy
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around the academy
Students Serve, Study, and Reflect during School Breaks
These hardworking students, parents, and teachers volunteered their time in Camden, NJ.
Students, accompanied by Director of Campus Ministry Sr. Lany Jo Smith, ASCJ, science teacher Susan Nelson, and a host of parents recently completed two mission trips at the Romero Center Ministries in Camden, New Jersey, which is considered the poorest and most crime-ridden city in the United States. The mission trips, which took place during both February and April breaks, allowed Sacred Heart students, parents, and faculty the opportunity to be part of a community so very different from their own. These wonderful weeks of service, study, and reflection invited participants to experience Christ-centered discipleship and Catholic social justice teachings of advocacy. Students volunteered at a number of local places, including soup kitchens, child intervention centers, shelters for AIDS victims, adult daycares, and Habitat for Humanity sites. 14
“I had prepared myself for Camden, but I hadn’t truly prepared myself. I was overwhelmed by the amount of poverty I saw as we drove around the city during the week. I was amazed to see a place like this in the United States, one of the wealthiest countries in the world. People in Camden struggle every day just to make ends meet. We as a group lived on welfare for one day while on the trip. We were split into groups of 4 and given $3.00 each. To try and feed a family of four on $12.00 was challenging to say the least. Most of us were hungry for the day and it provided a glimpse into the life Camden residents lead every day. This mission truly opened my eyes to the poverty in my own country and has inspired me to work harder in my own community,” offered Maggie McAndrew ’13.
Reflections on the March
Sacred Heart Community Walks for Life The Pro-Life Club, moderated by theology teacher Donna Scaramella, traveled to Washington, DC in January to participate in the March for Life. This year marked the 40th year that pro-life supporters have joined together to petition our legislators in Washington to reverse the 1973 Roe v. Wade decision which made abortion legal in the United States. This is the second year that our Pro-Life Club has participated. However, this year’s rally inspired Pro-Life Club President Liana Paglia ’13 to write about her own experience on this journey to protect the lives of our society’s most vulnerable. We proudly reprint Liana’s essay here.
by Liana Paglia ’13
There is something so provocative about walking with people who share a belief or support the same cause as you. There is something in the air, something that might not have been felt ordinarily: hope for change. Walking in the March for Life with fellow Pro-Life Club supporters had that effect on me; the pro-life cause felt tangible. It is this feeling that made the numbness in my limbs, and the drooping of my eyelids from a mostly sleepless bus ride, worth it. Seeing the hundreds of thousands of supporters on all sides proudly carrying banners with names of parishes and schools reinforced the fact that the fight to defend life is not only strong, but growing rapidly. I was purely astonished by the presence and support of the youth at the March for Life. Considering how saturated society is with sex and ways to “deal” with unwanted pregnancy, it was comforting to know that I marched amongst youth who refuse to alter their morals. I strongly believe in the notion that “there is strength in numbers.” I could not help but smile at the fact that there were so many kids my own age who shared my beliefs and were fighting for the rights of the defenseless. Each step united us, and that was powerful. Another important aspect of the trip was the opportunity to attend the Youth Rally/ Mass for Life. It was a humbling experience to witness the faith of over 17,000 pro-life supporters. Again this tangible feeling of camaraderie reminded me of the brotherhood/ sisterhood that exists among Christians and the power we have to make a difference in the world if we help each other and rely on God. Joined in prayer and thanks, we celebrated life in all its fragile forms: unborn, elderly, sick, and poor. We prayed to God asking for his help in overturning Roe v. Wade and forgiving those who support it and those who have had abortions. The Mass left an impression on each attendee, giving each a newfound motivation and purpose to march. So despite the eight hour bus ride (mostly spent awake), the cold and the snow, I know that next year I will be marching again. I am just as sure now as I was when I first heard about the March only weeks before my junior year which was my first year as Pro-Life Club president. I know that marching is what I am supposed to do and more importantly, I want to be a part of it; I want to make a difference. Even if only one person is affected by the March, it is worth it, because each life has worth and I am willing to fight for that.
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around the academy
Senior Chosen as Scholar-Athlete
Senior Danielle McPherson has been chosen as Sacred Heart Academy’s Scholar-Athlete for the 2012-13 school year. This May, Danielle, captain of the Pacers, accepted her award at the 30th Annual Connecticut High School ScholarAthlete Awards Dinner at the Aqua Turf Club. This honor is bestowed upon students who stand out as strong leaders both on and off the playing field. In addition to her stellar academic and athletic accomplishments, Danielle volunteers with Special Olympics and attended the school mission trip to New Jersey last February. Says soccer coach George Bedocs, “Danielle inspired her team by setting an example for others to follow and demonstrated a tremendous work ethic. She is a true leader in every sense of the word.” Congratulations, Danielle!
Share Your Career, Enrich a Student’s Summer!
Sophomore Competes in U.S. Figure Skating Championships In January Sara Fagan ’15 competed in the United States Figure Skating Championships in Omaha, Nebraska. Sara and her partner placed 11th, a huge honor for this intermediate-level ice dance duo. Beams Sara, “This was my first year at Nationals so placing 11th out of 12 was a big deal for my partner and me.” After coming in 4th place in the Eastern Championships last November, Sara qualified for Nationals in Omaha. “The U.S. Figure Skating Championships is definitely a life-changing experience. My desire to return has driven me to work harder at my practices. It will take a lot of hard work to earn my place in next year’s Nationals, but Sara Fagan ’15 skates with her partner. all that work is definitely worth it,” she says. Congratulations, Sara!
The Tradition Continues! Legacies from the incoming Class of 2017 at Sacred Heart Academy were recognized at this year’s orientation for incoming freshmen. Twenty-five members of this class have mothers who are alumnae and five members have grandmothers who are alumnae. Twenty-nine class members have one or more sisters who are current students or graduates. The Class of 2017 hails from thirty-five towns and fifty-three feeder schools.
“Sacred Heart legacy is more strongly represented in this class than in any previous class. We are particularly struck with the number of alumnae who are sending their daughters to Sacred Heart. The presence of these young women at the Academy is a testament to the importance that families place on the values learned here, and their desire to ensure that the Sacred Heart tradition continues,” announced Elaine Lamboley ’60, Director of Admissions.
Sacred Heart Academy offers rising seniors the opportunity to gain real-world experience through its Summer Internship Program (SHASIP). Launched by Mary Gniadek ’04 in 2009, SHASIP continues to grow each year due to the support and participation of alumnae.
Local alumnae, please consider mentoring a student. SHASIP internships are unpaid and require a minimum of eighty hours that are scheduled throughout the summer as determined by the mentor and the student intern. A sampling of our student body has indicated interest in the following fields: engineering, business, medicine, graphic design, physical therapy, nursing, child care, marketing, veterinary medicine, public relations, law, speech pathology, and the fine arts. Further information is available on the website. If you have any questions, please email Sr. Mary Jane Paolella, ASCJ, ’65 at smj@ sacredhearthamden.org or Mary Gniadek at mary.gniadek@gmail.com.
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Seniors Published in New Haven Magazine
Senior Named National Merit Finalist
Seniors Tess Cersonsky and Linsey Ochenkowski have both been featured in New Haven Magazine’s annual “High School Confidential” issue. This year’s issue focused on the “trials, tribulations, and triumphs of area teens.” While Linsey wrote of a surprise visit from her brother who had been deployed overseas, Tess wrote about how her late father inspired her dream of becoming a doctor. According to New Haven Magazine editorial assistant Ashley Chin, “Our editors select the most compelling essays for publication.” Read their stories at www.newhavenmagazine.com. Congratulations, Tess and Linsey!
GIT Youth Ambassador Presents to Students Tess Cersonsky ’13 has been named a Finalist in the 2013 National Merit Scholarship Competition. Finalists have outstanding academic records throughout high school, are endorsed by the school principal and earn SAT scores that confirm their earlier qualifying test performance. Approximately half of all Finalists will be selected as Merit Scholarship winners, earning the Merit Scholar title.
Megan Dwyer ’14 explains the purpose of the “Daisy Wheel” to her classmates.
Megan Dwyer ’14, a Get in Touch (GIT) Foundation youth ambassador, recently presented information on the foundation and demonstrated the use of the “Daisy Wheel” to physical education classes. Get in Touch encourages girls of all ages to “Get in Touch” with their bodies, with information, and with each other in the crusade against breast cancer. Says physical education teacher Kim Curbow ’81, “We are very lucky to have Megan as our student ambassador for the GIT program. Her passion and enthusiasm is
amazing as she assists in educating her SHA sisters!”
In the fall, Tess will attend Columbia University where she was accepted Early Decision. Elaborates Tess, “I am planning to major in biomedical engineering and to minor in French as an undergraduate and hopefully to go to medical school eventually. My dad was a pediatrician and I am interested in pediatric surgery or research as my experience in the Yale lab this summer was so fascinating.” Congratulations, Tess!
When Kim first met with Mary Ann Wasil, founder of GIT, she was inspired by Mary Ann’s approach to life. Shares Kim, “Mary Ann reinforced my belief that we have an obligation to provide our young women with the life-long knowledge needed to take care of themselves. The GIT program educates them in a manner that truly speaks to young women.”
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around the academy
Astronomy Students Broadcast the Weather with WTNH’s Gil Simmons
Meteorologist Gil Simmons discusses the complex world of meteorology with students.
Award-winning meteorologist Gil Simmons and the WXedge team recently visited Sacred Heart Academy to meet with Fred Centrella’s astronomy class. Students learned about the various instruments on the mobile weather lab before appearing on a live broadcast with Gil on News8. Watch the live broadcast and behind the scenes visit on the school’s website at www.sacredhearthamden.org.
Expands Course Options Along with more than thirty girls’ schools nationally, Sacred Heart Academy is now a consortium member of the Online School for Girls (OSG), a non-profit institution whose mission is to “provide the best education in a digital environment for girls.” The Online School for Girls provides an exceptional educational experience by connecting girls worldwide through relevant and engaging coursework in a dynamic online learning community. Guided by current research on how girls learn best, “OSG has dedicated itself to emphasizing
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connection among participants; incorporating collaboration into the learning experience; inspiring and rewarding creativity; and engaging in real-world problems and applications while having students probe the social and ethical dynamics that define and stretch our global society.” Offered Dean of Academic Affairs David Alexandro, “This affiliation enhances our course offerings and provides for greater flexibility in scheduling. Students now have more than 120 courses from which to choose, including 19 at the AP level.” In fall 2013, Sacred Heart will offer juniors
and seniors the following courses for credit through the Online School for Girls: • Advanced Mathematics: Multivariable Calculus and Differential Equations • AP Computer Science • AP Environmental Science • AP Human Geography • AP Macroeconomics • AP Music Theory • iOS App Development • Japanese • Journalism These exciting additions to the curriculum promise to enrich learning opportunities and boost student success.
Senior Alyssa Paolillo Signs with Sacred Heart University Alyssa Paolillo ’13 has signed with Division 1 Sacred Heart University to play soccer. A four year varsity stand-out, Alyssa was named to the All-State and NH Register All-Area Teams during her junior and senior years and the All-Quinnipiac team as a sophomore, junior, and senior. She also plays for CFC United, a premier team that placed third in the Elite Club National League (ECNL) at the national championship in summer 2012. Director of Guidance Kerry Alexander elaborates, “Alyssa is a strong student who has taken several honors and Advanced Placement courses through her four years at Sacred Heart. As a peer connector, she enjoys working with her peers and helping younger students adjust to their transition to high school. As an athlete, Alyssa has used her talents to teach young children to play and love soccer through summer camps and
Sr. Sheila O’Neill, ASCJ, Ph.D., ’71, George Bedocs, Andrew Paolillo, Denise Banti-Paolillo, and Sr. Maureen Flynn, ASCJ, ’81 watch as Alyssa Paolillo ’13 (sitting) fulfills a dream to play Division 1 soccer.
clinics.” Soccer coach and Athletic Director, George Bedocs adds, “Alyssa is looking forward to an exciting challenge next season
at Sacred Heart University and I am confident she will become an important part of their team.” Good luck, Alyssa!
Sister Antonine Signorelli, ASCJ Scholars Recognized Ten incoming freshmen were recently recognized as Sister Antonine Signorelli, ASCJ Scholars. This annual scholarship honors the life, philosophy, and achievements of the Academy’s founding principal. Students with the highest entrance exam scores and those who demonstrate outstanding academic potential are selected to receive this prestigious award. Award recipients representing the Class of 2017 were welcomed at a reception in their honor. Honorees include Jeanne Marie Cassidy, Abigail Kelly, Elizabeth Lamont, Hannah Levesque, Jordan Meares-Garcia, Claire Niesobecki, Sophie Park, Alicia Pekar, Toella Pliakas, and Corinne Wilklow.
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around the academy
SHA Goes # Social! Sacred Heart Academy’s social circle just got a little bigger! During this year’s Spirit Week, the school launched a number of new social networking outlets for students, parents, alumnae, and friends to tune into SHA life 24/7. Informative, fun, and even nostalgic for some, it is now easier than ever to stay connected. Check out the newest additions to our online presence to “like” us, “follow” us, “subscribe,” and reblog!
Mashup
It’s all here! See the latest updates from our Facebook page, Twitter feed, YouTube channel, and more on our social media mashup page! URL ı sacredhearthamden.org/mashup
Facebook ı Find our fan page on Facebook! Holly Fink, Administrative Assistant – Main Office & Mission Advancement, will be posting instant news and day-to-day happenings in our school community. URL ı facebook.com/sacredhearthamden Alumnae Facebook ı Join our Alumnae group on Facebook! Reconnect with old classmates and almost 1,900 alumnae, share SHA experiences, and celebrate life beyond the Academy. As a closed group, this is the perfect setting for alumnae to connect more candidly with one another. Often, this is how Sr. Mariette Moan, ASCJ, ’77, Director of Alumnae Relations, communicates with alumnae about job openings, prayer requests, and SHA events and updates. URL ı facebook.com/groups/SHAalumnae
Twitter ı Take a look at the Academy from the perspective of the principal’s office. Sr. Maureen Flynn, ASCJ, ’81 will be tweeting about all things SHA, in 140 characters or less, of course! URL ı twitter.com/SHAhamden Twitter ı Calling all Pacers fans! The Athletic Department will be tweeting all the latest athletic updates and scores from our 13 sports teams. GO PACERS! URL ı twitter.com/SHApacers Heart Speaks to Heart ı Searching for an online respite for spiritual reflection and conversation? Inspired by the Latin phrase “cor ad cor loquitur,” Sr. Mariette Moan, ASCJ, ’77, Director of Alumnae Relations, has started “Heart Speaks to Heart,” a blog for the Sacred Heart Academy community. URL ı blog.sacredhearthamden.org YouTube ı Now with a YouTube channel dedicated to the education of our young women, students can access videos available through YouTube EDU as well as faculty-approved videos for the classroom and at-home learning. Check back on this channel frequently to see video recaps from school events, from our FantaSHA Auction to community outreach and mission trips. URL ı youtube.com/user/SHAHamden/featured Alumnae YouTube ı Enjoy photo slideshows from your Reunion days, the inauguration of Sr. Sheila O’Neill, ASCJ, Ph.D., ’71 as the first president, and beloved traditions like the May Crowning. Keep up with current events at Sacred Heart such as the renowned biotechnology program and a video presentation honoring the Clelian charism that is the hallmark of our SHA community. URL ı youtube.com/user/SHAlumnae/featured
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office of the president
Building on Excellence
A Road Map for our Future – 2011- 2014
Dear Friends, As another school year winds down, I’m proud to write that a number of key enhancements have been completed in our Building on Excellence plan.
a task force to evaluate our fine arts program, and our curriculum now includes Online School for Girls. The Office of Mission Advancement has been restructured and our Annual Fund continues to grow each year.
Our retreat program has been enriched and expanded to include Kairos retreats; this expansion has served to enhance both school culture and school spirit. In addition, faculty and staff salaries and benefits have been evaluated and increased, building renovations including new lockers, lighting, and flooring have been completed, and we are in the process of air-conditioning the gym. Classroom technology has been upgraded, and faculty and student technology support has been increased.
The final phase of Building on Excellence will be implemented next year as we plan to form a long-range plan and task force to study our athletic program and a building committee in preparation for a campus master plan. Our goal is for the master plan to serve as the foundation for a capital campaign. This is a very exciting time in the history of SHA, and I feel privileged to be a part of it.
Communication with parents has been amplified through weekly memos, guidance meetings, and our enewsletter, “Matters of the Heart.” In addition, we redesigned HEART magazine and unveiled a new website which includes access to our online community. We have established
In His Heart,
Sr. Sheila O’Neill, ASCJ, Ph.D., ’71 President Sacred Heart Academy
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mission advancement special events ı 2012 - 2013
Grandparents’ Day ı Learning across Generations
Children’s Easter Party
enjoyed a continental breakfast, faculty and student presentations, songs from last winter’s musical, White Christmas, and a prayer service in the chapel. After the festivities, sophomores led their grandparents on guided tours of the campus. Grandparents and sophomores alike thoroughly enjoyed the “Learning across Generations” portion of the program, a new addition to this year’s gathering where students, grandparents, and teachers interacted through lessons and activities. The time in chapel was especially meaningful, as each moment of the service honored the bond between granddaughters and their grandparents. Andrea Sanchez ’15 poses alongside grandmother Ana Baez.
October 16, 2012 marked our Fourth Annual Grandparents’ Day. Sponsored by the Office of Mission Advancement, sophomores invited their grandparents to campus for a morning of fun and learning. Together they
“My grandmother loves to hear about my day-to-day life at SHA and today she got to see it and be a part of it! The prayer service resonated with her because it was about hope,” offered Alyssa Ajello ’15. She added, “SHA is meant for sharing and there are no better people to share it with than our grandparents.”
Sacred Heart Academy Recognizes Compassion, Commitment, and Contributions at Hearts of the Community Mass of Celebration (from left) Mariette B. Moan, Sr. Sheila O’Neill, ASCJ, Ph.D., ’71, Phyllis Giglietti, Thomas Giglietti, Kelly O’Leary ’99, and Sr. Maureen Flynn, ASCJ, ’81 pictured in our school chapel.
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Sr. Sheila O’Neill’s nieces and future SHA alumnae Riley O’Neill, Maggie Schreck, and Bridy O’Neill prepare to scoop up some Easter treats at our Children’s Easter Party.
With winter finally behind us, the Alumnae Association was excited to sponsor the annual Children’s Easter Party to celebrate the holiday and the sprouting spring season. Children gathered in the Philip Paolella, Jr. Recreational Center for face painting, prizes, and filled their baskets with Easter candy. With treats like cake pops and cupcakes, children and their families were all smiles and especially enjoyed professional photos with the Easter bunny. More than three hundred guests attended this year’s event!
Black & White Makes for a Fabulous Night!
Auction chairpersons Brian and Mary Clifford Laucks ’79 enjoyed their night in black & white. (top right) Sacred Heart celebrated Eric Hummel’s 10th year as auctioneer for our signature annual benefit, The Auction.
Black & White…Oh What a Night! Sacred Heart Academy’s annual auction and signature fundraising event, raised close to $130,000 to support the Academy. The gymnasium, decked out in black and white was a sight to see with more than three hundred attendees getting in on the act in their “black and white – as they liked” attire. Perhaps the best part of the evening, Hands Up for Heart, raised nearly $35,000 as generous donors raised their hands to support need-based scholarships. Thank you to auction chairpersons Brian and Mary Clifford Laucks ’79 and their committee, comprised of more than one hundred current and former parents, alumnae, and friends, for sharing their vision and fashioning this spectacular night!
To give students the opportunity to witness the celebration, this year’s recipients of the Hearts of the Community Award were recognized at a Mass of Celebration in January in the school chapel. “This year’s recipients have served the community and the Academy in countless ways while embodying the spirit of generosity and goodwill…we feel privileged to acknowledge them and their exemplary leadership,” offered President Sr. Sheila O’Neill, ASCJ, Ph.D., ’71. Recognized for their compassion, commitment to community, and contributions to the Academy were Thomas and Phyllis Giglietti, Mariette B. Moan, and Kelly O’Leary ’99. Thomas and Phyllis Giglietti have supported Sacred Heart Academy since their daughter, Alisa ’99, was a freshman. Mr. Giglietti was an active member of the Fathers’ Club, served as its president, and was named Father of the Year. He co-chaired the Academy’s largest benefit, the FantaSHA Auction. Mrs. Giglietti was active in the Mothers’ Club and served on numerous committees, including the auction and golf tournament. Together, the Gigliettis continue to support the Academy whenever and wherever needed.
Alex Ryan ’15 and Francesca Campanelli ’16 assist at a silent auction table.
Mariette B. Moan has volunteered at Sacred Heart Academy since her two daughters, Sr. Mariette Moan, ASCJ, ’77 and Louise Moan Bouteiller ’80, were students. During those years, she was an active member of the Mothers’ Club and was instrumental in founding and subsequently serving as president of the Alumnae Mothers’ Club. Most recently, she served on the Spirituality Committee for Building on Excellence, an initiative which included more than one hundred alumnae, parents, past parents, and friends dreaming about the future of Sacred Heart. Kelly O’Leary ’99 is the principal of St. Martin de Porres Academy, a faith-based NativityMiguel model middle school that provides tuition free education for underserved girls and boys from low income families in the New Haven area. Ms. O’Leary’s entire professional career has been dedicated to breaking the cycle of poverty through education by serving students, families, volunteers, and teachers. In 2011, Kelly received the Garden Club of America’s Elizabeth Abernathy Hull Award for her outstanding contribution to environmental education of youth.
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strong bonds red & white line
1954
Barbara DeMusis Trocchio is enjoying life in The Villages, Florida, where she has become an avid player of Mahjong and enjoys singing in the parish choir.
1982
Kathleen Barsczewski is the proud mother of one of our newest additions to the SHA community! Her daughter Tessa will begin her freshman year in August as a member of the Class of 2017!
1956
Nicolina Diana Gontarz lives in Dunedin, Florida, and is enjoying retirement from her career as an insurance adjuster.
2010
Kyra Munzenmaier is currently studying at the University of Miami where she is preparing for senior year.
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1961
Carolyn Peterson Mayers and her husband divide their time between Florida and New Jersey.
1970
Theresa Timpson enjoys living in San Francisco with her husband of thirty-four years, Thomas A. Walker. Theresa is a regional human resources director for COX Media Group.
1973
Kim Radowiecki reports from her empty nest along the Connecticut River: “Both ‘fledglings’ flew off Labor Day weekend 2012 to embark on the next phase of their lives. Daughter Rachel, a freshman at Princeton, is pursuing engineering. Son Ken graduated with a marketing degree from Bryant University and began his first full-time job.” Kim still keeps up with SHA news and welcomes hearing from her classmates. 24
Kathryn Cannon graduated from UCONN last May with a bachelor’s degree in human development and family studies. She is currently completing her studies at The Commonwealth Medical College, earning a master’s degree in biomedical science. Andrea Wagner graduated from Stony Brook University in May 2012 after completing a three month internship in the fish and invertebrate department at Mystic Aquarium. Currently, Andrea is enjoying her full-time job at Faulkner Physical Therapy as the Assistant Aquatics Director.
Theresa Amendola Azoti was recently elected to the position of 2013-14 State President of The Delta Kappa Gamma Society International. Congratulations, Theresa!
Jo-Anne Anastasio Jones and her husband Bob reside in Arizona. Together, they are very active in their community and in their parish. Reflecting on her days at Sacred Heart, JoAnne writes, “I treasure my memories of the golden days at SHA! It makes me very proud to see your mission of creating the Excelsior Woman, continuing the vision of Sr. Antonine. What a remarkable educator and mentor! I truly believe that my successes in life were largely shaped by her guidance and my years at SHA.”
2008
Tessa ’17 and her mother Kathleen Barsczewski ’82
1994
Amanda Vecchio Armstrong and her husband Jared have two children, Cody and Ava, and currently reside in Wallingford. Amanda is the owner of AA+A Precious Metal.
1998
Katelyn Whitman recently returned from spending a semester of study abroad in Bath, England.
2011
Emily Laucks attends The Catholic University of America where she is majoring in elementary education. In January, she attended the inauguration ceremony for President Obama’s second term.
Tracy Bello Madden gave birth to her second daughter Brooke Elizabeth in December 2012. Congratulations!
2000
Lindsey Kordorsky is engaged to John-Paul MacPherson. They plan to be married in October 2013. Lindsey graduated from SCSU with a degree in social work and is currently employed as an elder care manager.
2004
Elizabeth Wolleben Yoder and her husband Jesse were married in August 2012. They met at L’Arche, an international community of group homes, where people with and without disabilities share their lives and faith.
2005
Alanna Munzenmaier is completing her junior year at the University of Florida, College of Veterinary Medicine.
Emily Laucks during the inauguration
Alessandra Vecchio is completing her sophomore year at The University of Tampa, majoring in criminology.
2012
Julia Berv is preparing to enter her junior year at Springfield College in the physician’s assistant program.
Apostles Announce New Leadership for the U.S. Province Sacred Heart Academy Alumnae Strongly Represented
Mother Clare Millea, ASCJ, ’65, Superior General of the Apostles of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, (Rome, Italy), and her Council have appointed a new Provincial Superior and Provincial Council for the United States Province. Sacred Heart Academy is especially proud of its alumnae represented in leadership, including Sr. Maureen Flynn, ASCJ, ’81 who will serve as treasurer, in addition to continuing her role as principal here at the Academy. Other Sacred Heart alumnae serving are Sr. Anne Walsh, ASCJ, ’81, Sr. Linda Pettinella, ASCJ, ’65, and Sr. Ellen Cronan, ASCJ, ’58. The transition of leadership will take place during a ceremony at Mount Sacred Heart on July 7. Each province in the ASCJ congregation is led by a provincial superior, assisted by a vice provincial, provincial secretary, treasurer, and councilors. We ask your prayers in support of these Sisters who will be assuming the responsibility for leadership of the United States Province: Provincial Superior Sr. Anne Theresa Walsh ’81, Vice Provincial, Councilor Sr. Linda Pettinella ’65, Councilor Sr. Ellen Cronan ’58, Councilor Sr. Veronica Beato, Councilor Sr. Virginia Herbers, Secretary Sr. Lisa Retort, and Treasurer Sr. Maureen Flynn ’81.
Superior General Mother Clare Millea, ASCJ, ’65 Earns Great Honor Congratulations to Mother Clare Millea, ASCJ, ’65 who recently received the 2013 Pro Fidelitate et Virtute Award from the Institute on Religious Life at their National Meeting and spoke at the Special Session for Consecrated Persons. The title of her presentation was “Faith as the Foundation of Religious Consecration.” According to the Bishop of Santa Rose, the Most Reverend Robert F. Vasa, Mother Clare was selected for her “extraordinary witness of fidelity to the consecrated life, as well as her tireless dedication as a daughter of the Church.” The award was presented at Illinois’s University of St. Mary of the Lake, during the Year of Faith. Mother Clare was elected Superior General of the Apostles of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in 2004. She participated as an auditor at the Synod of Bishops on the Word of God in 2008. Later in 2008 the Congregation for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life named her Apostolic Visitator of congregations of women religious in the United States. At the General Chapter of 2010 Mother Mother Clare Millea, ASCJ, ’65 Clare was re-elected Superior General for the 2010-2016 term.
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strong bonds
Stay in Touch Be a Part of the Online Community
Think about sharing information about noteworthy events or accomplishments in your life with your fellow alumnae! If you’ve moved or married, please contact us with your updated name and address information. Submit your photos (jpg) and news to: Red & White Line ı Sr. Mariette Moan, ASCJ, ’77 ı alumnae@ sacredhearthamden.org.
Register with the SHA Online Community to gain full access to our very own social network for alumnae. Search for fellow graduates within the alumnae directory, post a topic in the Strong Bonds Prayer Chain, or submit an update to the Red & White Line. To register: 1. Visit sacredhearthamden.org 2. Click ‘Login’ in top right corner 3. Click ‘New User Registration’
Alumnae Events
Just a click away!
With alumnae spread far and wide across Connecticut, the United States, and even the globe, registering for an alumnae event has never been easier! Whether you are coming back to town for your 25th reunion or for the popular Little Valentines Dinner Dance, registration is just a click away at www.sacredhearthamden.org.
Heart Speaks to Heart http://heartspeaksblog.wordpress.com/ Read the blog! Sr. Mariette Moan, ASCJ, ’77, Director of Alumnae Relations, has started “Heart Speaks to Heart,” a blog for the Sacred Heart Academy community.
Ways to Give to Sacred Heart Academy Whether you support the Annual Fund, the Sacred Heart Academy Endowment, or a fundraising event, our students are impacted in a positive way. There are many ways to contribute to SHA. To contact the Office of Mission Advancement call 203-288-2309, x318. Secure Online Donations ı Visit us on the web at www.sacredhearthamden.org and go to the “Support SHA” page. Checks ı Make checks payable to Sacred Heart Academy. Please accompany your donation with a note as to where the gift is intended and mail to President Sr. Sheila O’Neill, ASCJ, Ph.D., ’71, Sacred Heart Academy, 265 Benham Street, Hamden, CT 06514. Stock, Appreciated Securities and Mutual Funds ı Contact us to review procedures. Life Insurance and Planned Giving ı Contact us for information on bequests, charitable remainder or lead trusts, pooled income funds, and other ways to include Sacred Heart Academy in your estate plan. For a donation of life insurance, Sacred Heart Academy must be named as both beneficiary and irrevocable owner of a policy for gifts of life insurance to the school.
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Real Estate ı Gifts of real estate may include developed property, undeveloped property or donations subject to a prior life interest. Real estate may be given outright or through a bequest or may be used to fund a charitable trust or other life income plan. Contact us for further information. Gifts in Kind ı Gifts to the school are always welcome. Whether books for our library, audio/visual equipment for our classrooms or sporting equipment for our athletic program, we accept most in-kind donations. The Academy is prohibited by law from appraising the value of gifts of tangible personal property in any form. For donations of personal property valued at $5,000 or more, the donor must complete the appropriate IRS forms for tax deduction purposes and obtain a qualified, independent appraisal. Corporate Matching Gifts ı Double your dollars! Many companies offer matching gift support. Complete your employer’s form and mail it with your gift to Sacred Heart Academy. United Way ı If you give charitable donations through your employer, you can earmark funds directly to Sacred Heart Academy. Please speak with the director of human resources for the appropriate code for Sacred Heart Academy.
Our Excelsior Women of tomorrow, the members of the Class of 2013, have been accepted to the following colleges and universities: Adelphi University The University of Alabama Alfred University American International College American University The American University of Paris Anna Maria College Arcadia University Arizona State University The University of Arizona Assumption College Barry University Becker College Belmont University Bentley University Binghamton University Boston College Boston University University of Bridgeport Bryant University Cabrini College Case Western Reserve University Catawba College The Catholic University of America Cazenovia College Centenary College Central Connecticut State University College of Charleston Chestnut Hill College Clark University Clarkson University Clemson University Coastal Carolina University Colby-Sawyer College Columbia University Connecticut College University of Connecticut Cornell University CUNY-Macaulay Honors College Curry College University of Delaware
DeSales University Dickinson College Dominican University of California Drexel University Duquesne University East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania Eastern Connecticut State University Eckerd College Elmira College Elms College Emerson College Emmanuel College Endicott College Eugene Lang College The New School for Liberal Arts Fairfield University Fairleigh Dickinson University The University of Findlay Flagler College Florida Atlantic University Fordham University Franciscan University of Steubenville Franklin Pierce University Gannon University The George Washington University Georgia Institute of Technology Gettysburg College Hampton University University of Hartford Hartwick College Hawaii Pacific University High Point University Hofstra University College of the Holy Cross Holy Family University Howard University Husson University Immaculata University Iona College Jacksonville University James Madison University
Johnson & Wales University Johnson State College Keene State College Kent State University Keystone College King’s College La Salle University Lasell College Le Moyne College Lehigh University Loyola University Maryland Manhattan College Marist College University of Maryland, College Park Marymount University Massachusetts College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences University of Massachusetts, Amherst University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth The University of Memphis Merrimack College University of Miami University of Michigan Misericordia University Mount Ida College Mount Saint Mary College Mount Saint Mary’s University College of Mount Saint Vincent Neumann University University of New Hampshire University of New Haven New York University Newbury College Nichols College Northeastern University The Ohio State University Pace University, New York City Paul Smith’s College Pennsylvania State University, University Park University of Pittsburgh Post University Providence College Queens University of Charlotte Quinnipiac University Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute University of Rhode Island Rivier University
Roanoke College Rochester Institute of Technology University of Rochester Roger Williams University Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey at Newark Sacred Heart University Saint Anselm College Saint Francis University Saint Joseph’s University Saint Louis University Saint Mary’s College of California Saint Michael’s College Saint Peter’s University The College of Saint Rose Salve Regina University San Diego State University The University of Scranton Seton Hall University Siena College Simmons College Southern Connecticut State University Southern New Hampshire University Springfield College St. Bonaventure University St. John’s University Stonehill College Stony Brook University Suffolk University Syracuse University The University of Tampa The University of Texas, Austin Towson University Trinity College Union College Utica College University of Vermont Villanova University Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Wagner College Wentworth Institute of Technology Wesleyan University Western Connecticut State University Western New England University Wheaton College MA Wheelock College Wilson College Worcester Polytechnic Institute Worcester State University
Sacred Heart Academy
27
2012 – 2013
Sacred Heart Academy Advisory Board Roger J. Sciascia, FP—Chair Managing Partner ı Weinstein & Anastasio, PC Mary Patricia Caputo, FP—Vice Chair Director of Marketing and Publications, Office of Public Affairs ı Southern Connecticut State University
In Memoriam Carolyn Amendola Acampora, ’55 Jane Basserman, mother of Susan Criscuolo ’69 Nora Beattie, mother of Elizabeth Noonan ’68, Kathleen Neal ’70, and Charlotte Beattie ’72
James E. Bowman, FP Partner ı Bowman, Monaco & Black, PC
Eugene Calzetta, father of Sr. Claudia Calzetta, SL ’60 and Paula Calzetta ’73
MaryGrace N. Santagata Crisci ’88 Major Sales Account Manager ı Altura Communication Solutions
Rose Caputo, mother of Patricia Barrows ’61, Rosanne Schindelar ’69, Paula Daly ’74, and Elizabeth (Betsy) Crenshaw ’75
Thomas M. D’Addario, FP President ı D’Addario Buick GMC Cadillac Nissan Lesley DeNardis, Ph.D., ’84 Assistant Professor, Department of Government & Politics ı Sacred Heart University Anne Fitzpatrick Donahue ’84 Senior Vice President ı U.S. Bank
Hilda Catania, mother of Marianne Delgado ’73, Judith Dineen ’76, and Lisa Sinclair ’78
Amy E. Duda ’82, FP Strategic Planner Medical Director ı Suddler and Hennessy Mary-Ann P. Haran, Esq., FP Attorney at Law ı Law Office of Mary-Ann P. Haran Karen S. Harris, FP Associate Controller, Treasury & Gift Administration ı Yale University
Jane Curnan ’52 Janice D’Onofrio, mother of Nancy D’Onofrio ’83 Gregory Dubno, brother of Danna Dubno ’83 Georgia Mullen Dunsmore ’68 Mary Elizabeth Foley, mother of Patricia Ingram ’90, Tara Foley ’92, and Kathleen (Katie) Foley ’97 Salvatore Giaimo, father of Sr. Mary Grace Giaimo, ASCJ, ’72; former SHA Business Manager Marie Gillooly, mother of Claire Rose ’76, Ellen Schrier ’82, and Elisabeth Grudberg ’85; former SHA Mothers’ Club President
Lynne M. Hillis, M.D., FP Internal Medicine ı West Haven Medical Group
Thomas Harmon, father of Anne Sweeney ’70
Richard J. Iovanne Senior Commercial Loan Officer ı People’s United Bank Carolyn Morrell Kosack, M.D., ’70, FP Cardiovascular Disease Physician ı Cottage Grove Cardiology
Sean Keefe, husband of Mary Keefe ’74
Suzanne Jomini ’69
Roger A. Milici, Jr. Vice President Office of Development & University Relations ı Fordham University Robert Nastri, Jr., Esq., FP, CP Attorney at Law ı Tinley, Nastri, Renehan & Dost, LLP Sr. Lisa A. Retort, ASCJ Provincial Secretary ı Apostles of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Thomas P. Smith, Jr. Executive Vice President Agency and Marketing ı Knights of Columbus Joseph Toscano, FP Fire Investigation Consultant ı Chillworth Technology Mary Lee Weber, FP Director of Business Development ı Cashman & Katz
Rev. Robert W. Ladish, former chaplain at SHA, 1962 – 1976 Lamar Liddell, husband of Gina Lombardi ’93 Sophie Lupoli, mother of Lorraine Wihbey ’70 John Lyons, Sr., father of Sheila Wallace ’72, Pamela Griffin ’73, Cynthia Sullivan ’75, Catherine Lyons ’75, Linda Ruzzi ’78, Janet Fowler ’81, and Karen Aherne ’91 Joyce Celentano Moran ’57 Lucille McIntyre, mother of Mary-Eileen Sartiano ’75 Dorothy Morico, mother of BJ Carbee ’64 Ann Nolan, mother of Elizabeth (Liz) Nolan-Integlia ’83 John Joseph O’Neill, brother of President Sr. Sheila O’Neill, ASCJ, Ph.D., ’71 Raymond Hugh O’Neill, brother of President Sr. Sheila O’Neill, ASCJ, Ph.D., ’71 Michael P. Quoka, father of Tanya Liquori ’93
Sr. Sheila M. O’Neill, ASCJ, Ph.D., ’71, President ı Sacred Heart Academy Sr. Maureen P. Flynn, ASCJ, ’81, Principal ı Sacred Heart Academy Deborah S. Camner, Director of Mission Advancement ı Sacred Heart Academy Maria Cammarota, Business Manager ı Sacred Heart Academy
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Mitchell Kobierowski, father of Evelyn Kobierowski ’10 and Caroline Kobierowski ’14
FP – Former Parent CP – Current Parent
Ronald Rogers, father of Rita-Maria Rossetti ’87 Evelyn Rubano, mother of Marylou Sorensen ’57 and Carolyn FitzGerald ’59 Deborah Vashlishan, mother of Amy Murray ’98 Theresa Volpe, mother of Linda Dubois ’67 Nicholas Zuraw, father of Marissa Nemergut ’80
Treasures of the Heart 2012 - 2013
This year, with the support of the Annual Fund…
We need your help…
• President Sr. Sheila O’Neill, ASCJ, Ph.D., ’71 awarded over $400,000 in tuition assistance
• Incoming freshmen from 53 schools and 35 towns need financial aid to attend Sacred Heart Academy
• 151 current students (30% of our student body) received tuition assistance
• Student enrichment, facility upgrades, capital improvements, and faculty development need funding
• New lighting, flooring, and lockers were installed, and technology and classrooms were upgraded
• The Sacred Heart Academy Endowment Fund needs to grow to secure our future
How you can help… • Give generously to the Treasures of the Heart Annual Fund. Every gift matters! Use the envelope provided in this issue of HEART or give online at www.sacredhearthamden.org
Giving Circles Founder’s Circle Cornerstone Circle Charter Circle Mother Clelia Merloni Circle Excelsior Circle
$25,000 + $10,000 + $ 5,000 + $ 2,500 + $ 1,000 +
Sr. Antonine Signorelli Circle Red & White Circle The 21st Century Circle Heart to Heart Circle
$ 500 + $ 250 + $ 100 + up to $99
Be a Treasure of our Heart. Give generously to the Sacred Heart Academy Annual Fund. For more information about the Sacred Heart Academy Annual Fund, please contact Debbie Camner, Director of Mission Advancement at dcamner@sacredhearthamden.org or 203-288-2309, x318.
Sacred Heart Academy 265 Benham Street Hamden, CT 06514-2833 Address Service Requested
Though paths lead far…Come home to Sacred Heart 3’s and 8’s ı Let’s Celebrate
Saturday, June 8 beginning at 2:10 p.m. 2013 Special Reunion Classes Class of 1953 ı 60 years Class of 1963 ı 50 years Class of 1988 ı 25 years For more information and to register online visit www.sacredhearthamden.org/reunion