msja summer 2010 mount magazine

A Magazine for Alumnae,Parents and Friends ofMount Saint Joseph Academy Su

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er 2

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Congratulations Class of 2010

Educating Founder s Since 1858

A Letter From the President

Sister Kathleen Brabson, SSJ President

Dear Friends,

One of the most popular and enchanting musicals to ever come to the Broadway stage is the show Wicked. In my graduation remarks I took the liberty to refashion some of the lyrics from two songs, “For Good” and “Defying Gravity,” to express my thoughts about the impact of the Class of 2010 on the Mount. “Because they came to the Mount, we have been changed for the good!” Our young women are women who possess a social intelligence that encourages authentic and inclusive relationships. They are women who have engaged the world and kept us focused on our mission. They are women who have the courage to use their voice to take a risk. They have left their handprint on our hearts. I ask you to join me in congratulating the Class of 2010.

This year, the Development Committee of the Board of Directors engaged in the process of formulating key themes that characterize the Mount experience in an effort to send a clear and consistent message to the public, especially in the areas of recruitment and fundraising. During this process, we asked ourselves, “What tag line would give people reason to pause?” After much thought and reflection, we determined that our students are women who create their futures, and effect change, because they posses the courage to take a risk. Ours is a legacy of, “educating founders since 1858.” I hope as you read this magazine you will see the truth in this phrase that we hope will capture the attention of our Mount community and beyond.

This year’s valedictorian, Cory Stieg, spoke of her four-year journey on Route 309, reminding us that life is a journey with potholes and flat tires. Her analogies will resonate with you, and you will smile at her charm and wit.

With each publication of the Mount Magazine I hear from a number of you who are impressed with the span of articles and news that fill the pages. This edition will not disappoint you. Congratulations go to Marie-Helene Bertino ’95 on the recent publication of her short fiction about life with the Sisters of Saint Joseph after the break up of a relationship.

This summer edition is filled with pictures from graduation, Alumnae Day and many of our spring events. I hope you will see people you know or better yet, that you will see yourself as you remember the events of these past months. Please know that we at the Mount value being in relationship with you, and we count on your support.

Enjoy the summer, rest and renew your spirits and celebrate whenever you can!

Warm regards,

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Graduation Photography by Andrea Loughlin Portraiture

The Official Publication of Mount Saint Joseph Academy 120 West Wissahickon Avenue

Flourtown, PA 19031

President Sister Kathleen Brabson, SSJ

Principal Dr. Judith A. Caviston

Development Office Staff

Director of Development Jill Gregori

Director of Communications Elizabeth Racine

Director of Alumnae Theresa Moyer

Annual Fund Coordinator Leigh McFadden

Auction Director Lisa Henrich

Development Office Secretary Barbara Oldt

Phone: 215-233-3177 Fax: 215-233-4734

Website: www.msjacad.org

Alumnae Website:www.msjaalum.org

Alumnae e-mail: [email protected]

Summer 2010

Table of Contents

2010 Valedictory Address ................................................................... 4

College Acceptances and Awards ....................................................... 6

Update on SSJ Mission Corps Volunteers......................................... 15

Alumnae Spotlight ............................................................................. 18

Arts at the Mount ............................................................................... 20

Service Trip Reflections ..................................................................... 22

Happenings ....................................................................................... 24

Athletics ............................................................................................. 27

Development ..................................................................................... 30

Alumnae ............................................................................................ 31

Alumnae News .................................................................................. 37

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W over when something is wrong; the girls who prefer to drive the speed limit; and those of us who would rather find a rest stop before continuing along the highway of life. As freshmen, we made a similar merge from grade school to the Mount. Despite our differences, we all chose the same road, one that women have been driving for the past 150 years.

In my case, I chose the road “most traveled.” As the sixth person in my family to attend the Mount, I felt a personal connection to the school and its traditions before I even arrived. My mother, as well as all of my aunts attended the Mount, so I knew the school song and could translate the motto, “Spes messis in semine,” before the eighth grade. Last year, I had the privilege of working with my mother on the commemorative 150th documentary about the Mount. If the graduating Class of 1859 were here today, I think the similarities would be uncanny. We would all agree that the Mount is, always has been, and always will be a place about the relationships.

Of course, the Mount has not always been easy; we have certainly hit potholes, whether receiving our first demerit, or scoring a C on a math test. However, we have always lent one another a helping hand when those potholes caused flat tires. When a classmate was eliminated from the basketball playoffs, we were in the stands cheering her on at the next game. When a classmate received a rejection letter from her first-choice college, we reassured her. When a classmate lost a family member, we offered shoulders to cry on. During the past four years, we have come to rely on one another and have discovered the power of unity.

2010

ValedictoryAddress

by Cory Lin Stieg ’10

We have heard the song “Life Is a Highway,” a thousand times. My apologies to Rascal Flatts fans, but I must edit the lyrics. Life to me feels less like a super-highway

and more like Route 309, dangerous, thrilling, frightening, confusing, enormous, riddled with potholes, and never finished. Which exit should we take? Almost impossible to decide when

we are only six inches from all the other cars around us.

In truth, my life is much more like Bethlehem Pike than Route 309: slower, safer, annoying stopping and starting, but some good food along the way. My mother cringes at the thought of my driving alone on Route 309. She calls it the “death chute.” My mother is

always generous about driving advice, such as her theory on tailgaters: “They are all ‘Hyper Hanks’ trying to BEAT you to the red light.” Her sound advice also includes a strategy for merging lanes. My mother has taught me that I need to reach top speed; be sure that no cars are in my way; and, before looking at the traffic ahead or making my move, look behind me. Who would have guessed that my mother’s driving advice would inspire this address?

As we gather here today, we are approaching top speed, about to merge onto one of the most congested, most daunting, potentially dangerous highways: the Route 309 called life. Before me sit a number of different types of drivers: the tailgaters and “Hyper Hanks,” who cannot wait to leave for college; the parents, who are uneasy about letting their daughters drive alone; the police—I mean the administration—who pull us 4

We have learned from each one of these potholes and emerged unscathed. We have learned that due dates can often become the date we begin to do assignments, that we can conquer The Canterbury Tales research paper, and that we can always trust a classmate for anything from a prom date to an extra loafer. From our first Founders’ Day as freshmen, to our last Charity Day as seniors, we built and fortified our bonds through good times and bad. The beauty of the friendships among us is these indestructible bonds that cannot be broken.

When we arrived at the Mount as mere freshman, we did not know exactly how much change we would see. In September of 2006, Pluto was still a planet, and tweeting was left to the birds. Two wars were raging, and the economy seemed healthy. In our time here, we have seen the first African-American become President and the first Hispanic woman appointed to the Supreme Court. Change has been all around us, in the world and in our own halls. This year we have changed lanes completely with a new administration. While we reminisce about the past leaders and faculty members who have left us, we could not have asked for anyone better to fill their shoes.

We stand here today, poised for what lies ahead. For more than 150 years, young women have graduated from the Mount primed for change. After all, the future of society depends on our education. When I think about the girls I met in freshman year, who have become the confident young women who sit before me today, I cannot help smiling. I have seen the timid girl become the determined 20/20 member, the aspiring singer become the Broadway-bound star, the generous girl become the leader on service trips to Mississippi, and the most dedicated girl become the unstoppable, championship rower.

The Mount has provided each and every one of us with invaluable experiences. For these, we owe many of “thank you’s.” Though we do not always show our gratitude, we are thankful for each and every one of you who has helped us along the journey: our parents, our

families, our administration, our teachers, our classmates, and, of course, our faith. You have become our GPS system, because sometimes we get lost. Faithfully, you have always suggested routes and ensured we take the correct exit ramps. On the rare occasions when your advice does not work out, we can turn to God, the omnipotent GPS, to guide us when traffic is heavy. God calms our nail-biting parents, watching their daughters drive away. God guides us, the nervous drivers, when we are lost and do not want to admit that we don’t know where to go.

We have counted on each of you to know when to offer quiet, or, perhaps, not so quiet direction.

To our parents: Give up the wheel and let us drive. We may receive a ticket, we may have a fender-bender, we may even need you to repair our cars and our egos.

To our families: Thank you for being our faithful passengers on the highway of life. We value your patience, and the moments you have been our back-seat-drivers.

To our new administration: Of all the roads you could have chosen, we are blessed you chose the one that led to the Mount. As for the tickets—I mean demerits—you have given us, we are also grateful for those. They may not make much sense now, but someday they will.

To our teachers: We appreciate every green light you have given us to achieve more than we ever thought was achievable. We also thank you for your gentle directions along the way.

To my classmates, the Class of 2010: Try new routes and make wrong turns, yet have the humility to pull over, roll down the window, and ask for directions. We are ready to merge onto the Route 309 of life. Now, please, everyone, look over your

shoulder. Take note of the girl behind you and the girl in front of you and the girl beside you. These girls have driven with you for four years and will continue driving alongside you in spirit. Some of us are going across the country, and some, only across the state, but as we get off at our own exits, onto our own roads, do not forget the road we have taken together, the highway we so affectionately call Mount Saint Joseph Academy.

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Beverly Maria AndersonCornell University

Penn State University Invitation to BS/MBA ProgramRensselaer Polytechnic Institute Leadership Award

University of Rochester Deans’ ScholarshipUniversity of Scranton Dean’s Scholarship

Victoria Leigh BabsonThe University of California, Los Angeles

BMOA Philadelphia-BOLR ScholarshipUCLA Athletic Scholarship

Tara Elizabeth BarrPennsylvania State UniversityFordham University Jogues Scholarship

Mercedes Rose BellamUniversity of New Haven

University of New Haven Distinguished Scholar AwardUniversity of Tampa Dean’s Scholarship

Dara Adria BellinghamChestnut Hill College

Arcadia University Distinguished ScholarshipCabrini College Catholic High School Scholarship

Cabrini College Dean’s ScholarshipChestnut Hill College Scholarship

Gwynedd-Mercy College Catholic School Tuition AwardGwynedd-Mercy College Mother Mary Bernard Scholarship

La Salle University Founders ScholarshipPenn State University Abby Sutherland Scholarship

Tara Klair BeppelFordham University

Catholic University of America ScholarshipFordham University Jogues Scholarship

George Washington University Invitation to Honors ProgramLoyola University Chicago Director’s Scholarship

Loyola University Chicago Loyola ScholarshipSaint Joseph’s University Presidential Scholarship

Deirdre Marie BestMercyhurst College

Catholic University of America ScholarshipJohn Carroll University Ignatian Mission Award

John Carroll University ScholarshipMarywood I.H.M. Scholarship

Mercyhurst College Alumni Legacy ScholarshipMercyhurst College Bishop Watson Scholarship

Mercyhurst College Egan ScholarshipMercyhurst College Presidential Scholarship

Sacred Heart University Choir Leadership ScholarshipSacred Heart University Trustee ScholarshipUniversity of Scranton Loyola Scholarship

Jennifer Nicole BidusWest Virginia University

La Salle University Excellence in Learning AwardLa Salle University Founders Scholarship

West Virginia Blue & Gold Level 2 Scholarship

Samantha Anna BrechtUniversity of Pittsburgh

Commended Student, National Merit Scholarship ProgramCommonwealth of Pennsylvania Certificate of Merit

Drexel University Anthony J. Drexel ScholarshipDrexel University Invitation to Pennoni Honors College

Fordham University Dean’s ScholarshipSaint Joseph’s University Invitation to Honors Program

Saint Joseph’s University Presidential ScholarshipUniversity of Rochester Deans’ Scholarship

Meaghan Nicole BrickerLehigh University

Drexel University Alumni Endorsement ScholarshipDrexel University Anthony J. Drexel Scholarship

Drexel University Invitation to Pennoni Honors CollegeDrexel University Legacy Scholarship

Saint Joseph’s University Presidential Scholarship

Kiersten Elizabeth BrinkosDrexel University

Drexel University Dean’s ScholarshipQuinnipiac University Dean’s Scholarship

Towson University Provost Scholarship

Candice Lauren BrockPennsylvania State University

UPB Bradford Panther Scholarship

College Acceptances & Awards

The Class of 2010

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Catherine Elizabeth BrownLoyola University Maryland

Catholic University of America ScholarshipLoyola University Maryland Presidential Scholarship

Tara Elisabeth BrzyckiPennsylvania State University

La Salle University Founders ScholarshipSaint Joseph’s University Presidential Scholarship

Temple University Scholar AwardUniversity of Scranton Loyola Scholarship

Mary Elizabeth BurgoyneGeorgetown University


Fordham University Dean’s ScholarshipKenyon College Distinguished Academic Scholarship

Loyola University Maryland Invitation to Honors ProgramLoyola University Maryland Presidential Scholarship

Saint Joseph’s University Invitation to Honors ProgramSaint Joseph’s University Presidential ScholarshipUniversity of Delaware Merit-Based ScholarshipUniversity of Pittsburgh Academic Scholarship

University of Pittsburgh Invitation to Honors Program

Christine Josephine BurnsDickinson College

Dickinson College Tuition Exchange ScholarshipMuhlenberg College Invitation to Honors Program

Muhlenberg College RJ Fellowship Program Scholarship

Amanda Margaret BuschDrexel University

Drexel University Alumni Endorsement ScholarshipDrexel University Dean’s Scholarship

Drexel University Invitation to Pennoni Honors CollegeDrexel University Legacy Scholarship

Drexel University Summer Institute AwardUniversity of Pittsburgh Invitation to Honors Program

Corinne Elizabeth CaracausaCollege of the Holy Cross

Michele R. CarrollWest Chester University

Saint Joseph’s University Achievement Scholarship

Meghan Elizabeth CheekFordham University

Saint Joseph’s University Presidential ScholarshipSaint Joseph’s University United Scholars Award

Grace Catherine CipressiVillanova University

American University Leadership ScholarshipArcadia University Distinguished Scholarship

Arcadia University Invitation to First Year Study Abroad ExperienceArcadia University Invitation to Honors Program

La Salle University Founders ScholarshipLa Salle University Invitation to Honors Program

Loyola University Maryland Presidential ScholarshipLoyola University Invitation to Honors Program

Saint Joseph’s University Invitation to Honors ProgramSaint Joseph’s University Legacy Scholarship

Saint Joseph’s University Presidential ScholarshipUniversity of Delaware Invitation to Honors Program

University of Delaware Merit-Based ScholarshipUniversity of Pennsylvania Mayor’s Scholarship

West Chester University Invitation to Honors Program

Rosemary Elizabeth ClearyVillanova University

Mount St. Mary’s University Leadership Scholarship

Anora Florence CollierDrexel University

Drexel University Dean’s Scholarship

Alexandra Nentwig CoxStanford University

Finalist, National Merit Scholarship ProgramAmerican University Invitation to Honors Program

American University Presidential ScholarshipBoston College Invitation to Honors Program

Catholic University of America ScholarshipCatholic University of America Invitation to Honors Program

Penn State University Academic Excellence ScholarshipPenn State University Invitation to Schreyer Honors College

Tulane University Invitation to Honors ProgramTulane University Presidential Scholarship

University of Southern California Trustee Full-tuition ScholarshipUniversity of Southern California National Merit Academic Scholarship

University of Southern California Invitation to Thematic Option Honors Program

Natalie Claire CarloneUniversity of Connecticut

La Salle University Founders ScholarshipSaint Joseph’s University Presidential Scholarship

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Sinead Patrice CummingsTemple University

Saint Joseph’s University Presidential ScholarshipTemple University Scholar Award

Margaret Elizabeth DanielsVillanova University

Catholic University of America ScholarshipDrexel University Alumni Award

Drexel University Dean’s ScholarshipDrexel University Legacy Scholarship


Karalea Ruth DavisFordham University

Catholic University of America University ScholarshipFordham University Loyola Scholarship

Hofstra University Invitation to Honors CollegeHofstra University Presidential Scholarship

Iona College Academic Excellence ScholarshipSaint Joseph’s University Legacy Scholarship

Saint Joseph’s University Presidential ScholarshipUniversity of Scranton Dean’s Scholarship

Xavier University Trustee Scholarship

Colleen Margaret DelaneyDrexel University

Drexel University Athletic ScholarshipDrexel University Dean’s Scholarship


Nicole Marie DiGiovanniDrexel University

Cabrini College Catholic High School ScholarshipCabrini College President’s Scholarship


La Salle University Excellence in Learning AwardLa Salle University Founders Scholarship

La Salle University Invitation to Honors ProgramSaint Joseph’s University Presidential Scholarship

St. John’s University Scholastic Excellence ScholarshipTemple University Invitation to Honors Program

Temple University Scholar Award

Moira Frances DiSandroUniversity of Delaware

Saint Joseph’s University Achievement ScholarshipSaint Joseph’s University Legacy ScholarshipUniversity of Scranton Loyola Scholarship

Carolyn Grace DixonTemple University

Barry University Barry Scholarship

Priscilla Catherine DonnalleySaint Joseph’s University

Amanda Rose DoughertyLoyola University Maryland

Fairfield University Magis Scholar ScholarshipLoyola University Maryland Presidential Scholarship

Maura Elizabeth DoughertyGeorgetown University

Gwynedd-Mercy College Dean’s ScholarshipLa Salle University Founders Scholarship

Penn State Invititation to Schreyer Honors College ScholarshipPenn State University School of Nursing Honors Scholarship

Penn State University Schreyers HC Academic Excellence ScholarshipTemple University Scholar Award

Alyssa Mercedes DriscollLehigh University

Drexel University Invitation to Pennoni Honors College

Alyssa C. DrummyUniversity of Delaware

Iona College Academic Excellence ScholarshipSeton Hall University Scholarship

Lauren Elizabeth DudaSyracuse University

Elon University Presidential ScholarshipLoyola University Maryland Presidential Scholarship

Marist College Presidential ScholarshipUniversity of Scranton Dean’s Scholarship

University of Scranton Invitation to Honors Program

Mary Margaret DuffThe George Washington University

Rebecca Kathleen DuffinUniversity of Pennsylvania

Dana Catherine DysartFordham University

Chestnut Hill College ScholarshipDickinson College John Montgomery Scholarship

Fairfield University Bellarmine ScholarshipUniversity of Delaware Merit-Based Scholarship

Kellie Lynn EnglishSyracuse University

Nicole Christine FabiszewskiThe University of Scranton

Katrina Marie FellmethPennsylvania State University

Margot Duffy FinneganUniversity of Delaware

Catholic University of America Invitation to University Honors ProgramCatholic University of America Scholarship

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Deirdre Leighton FoleyUniversity of Pittsburgh

Elizabthtown College Provost’s ScholarshipUniversity of Scranton Loyola Scholarship

Nina Rosemary FrielVillanova University

National Merit Scholarship RecipientDrexel University Anthony J. Drexel Scholarship

Drexel University Invitation to Pennoni Honors CollegeLa Salle University Founders Scholarship

La Salle University Invitation to Honors ProgramSaint Joseph’s University Excellence Award

Saint Joseph’s University Invitation to Honors ProgramSaint Joseph’s University Presidential ScholarshipTemple University Invitation to Honors Program

Temple University Scholar AwardVillanova University Villanova Commuting Scholarship

Alexandra Maria FylypovychFairfield University

Fairfield University Bellarmine ScholarshipFordham University Jogues Scholarship

Saint Joseph’s University Presidential ScholarshipSt. Mary’s College of Maryland Academic Achievement AwardUniversity of Mary Washington Invitation to Honor ProgramUniversity of Mary Washington Scholastic Excellence Award

Christina Rose GallagherPennsylvania State University

Katharine Mary McCormack GallagherUniversity of Pennsylvania

La Salle University Founders ScholarshipPolice Athletic League Scholarship

University of Pennsylvania Mayor’s ScholarshipUniversity of Scranton Dean’s Scholarship

Moira Susan GannonWestminster Choir College of Rider University

Rider University Dean’s ScholarshipTemple University Boyer Scholarship

Jennifer Lynn GerhartPennsylvania State UniversityDrexel University Dean’s Scholarship

Merk Sharp & Dohme Raymond O. Hoffman AwardSt. John’s University Academic Achievement Award


Natalia Laura GigliottiSaint Joseph’s University

Saint Joseph’s University Presidential ScholarshipUniversity of the Sciences Promise Award

Shannon Catherine GilmanThe University of Scranton

Arcadia University Distinguished ScholarshipUniversity of Scranton Loyola Scholarship

Emily Jane GimpelCollege of William and Mary

College of William & Mary Athletic ScholarshipFairfield University Bellarmine Scholarship

Montgomery County Golf Dave Marshall ScholarshipMontgomery County Golf Harry Mirabile Memorial Scholarship

Jessica Marie GiordanoNortheastern University

Taylor Terese GivnishLa Salle University

La Salle University Founders Scholarship

Nicole Elizabeth GozdanVillanova University


Fairfield University Bellarmine ScholarshipQuinnipiac University Dean’s Scholarship

Quinnipiac University Invitation to Honors ProgramUniversity of Delaware Merit-Based Scholarship

University of Scranton Dean’s Scholarship

Kathryn Lea GregorDuke University

Duke University Athletic Scholarship

Lauren Marie GreskoMassachusetts Institute of TechnologyMassachusetts Institute of Technology Scholarship

Amy Nicole GwynnSchreyer Honors College of Pennsylvania State University


Fordham University Loyola ScholarshipFordham University Tuition Award

La Salle University Full-Tuition Christian Brothers ScholarshipMA College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences Academic Achievement

AwardMA College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences Dean’s Achievement Award


University of Delaware Merit-Based Scholarship

Ariana Pauline HarkinsPhiladelphia University


Philadelphia University Merit AwardSaint Joseph’s University Legacy Scholarship


Sabrina Isabelle HarkinsDrexel University

Drexel University Dean’s ScholarshipPhiladelphia University Faculty Scholarship

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Emma Daisy HarnitchekThe Catholic University of America

Catholic University of America Alumni ScholarshipCatholic University of America Parish Scholarship

Catholic University of America ScholarshipDrexel University Alumni Award

Drexel University Legacy ScholarshipMount St. Mary’s University Dean’s Scholarship

University of Pittsburgh Bradford Merit-Based ScholarshipUniversity of Scranton Loyola Scholarship

Meredith Leigh HassettUniversity of Virginia

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Medal ScholarshipUniversity of Pittsburgh Academic Scholarship

University of Pittsburgh Invitation to Honors ProgramUniversity of Rhode Island Centennial Scholarship

Maggie Elizabeth HeenanUniversity of New Haven

Philadelphia University Faculty ScholarshipUniversity of New Haven Distinguished Scholar Award

Melissa Kathleen HegartyLa Salle University

La Salle University Founders ScholarshipLoyola University Maryland Presidential Scholarship


Paula Anne HillPennsylvania State University

Alexa Marie IannuzziWest Chester University

Philadelphia University Faculty ScholarshipSaint Joseph’s University Legacy Scholarship

Saint Joseph’s University, University ScholarshipUniversity of Pittsburgh Merit Scholar Award

University of Pittsburgh Merit Scholarship Housing AwardUniversity of Pittsburgh Resident Scholar Award

Sandy Michelle JacquezTexas Christian University

Archdiocese of Philadelphia St. Timothy AwardCatholic University of America Scholarship

Saint Joseph’s University Presidential ScholarshipSt. John’s University Academic Achievement Award

Sarah Danielle JordanUniversity of Virginia

University of Virginia Athletic Scholarship

Coleen Marie JoyceThe University of Scranton

DeSales University Trustee ScholarshipUniversity of Scranton Loyola Scholarship

Emily Anne KelleyTemple University

University of the Arts Dean’s AwardUniversity of the Arts Promising Artist Scholarship

Rheana Marie KelleySaint Joseph’s University

Gwynedd-Mercy College McAuley ScholarshipLa Salle University Founders Scholarship

Temple University Scholar AwardWidener University Presidential Scholarship

Joan Cashman KesslerUniversity of Delaware

Catholic University of America Parish ScholarshipCatholic University of America University Scholarship

Saint Joseph’s University Presidential ScholarshipUniversity of San Francisco Academic Merit Award

Stacey Mary KindelanUniversity of Notre Dame

Finalist, National Merit Scholarship ProgramPenn State University College of Engineering Scholarship

Victoria Ann KocUniversity of Pennsylvania

Finalist, National Merit Scholarship ProgramAmerican University Invitation to Honors Program

American University Presidential ScholarshipBoston University Dean’s Scholarship

New York University Merit Scholarship

Danielle Marjorie KouchUniversity of Delaware

Marie Christina LasterPhiladelphia University

Philadelphia University Faculty Scholarship

Suzanne Emily LawlorFairfield University


Fairfield University Bellarmine ScholarshipUniversity of Scranton Dean’s Scholarship


Kai Brady LawrenceNew York University

Stephanie Jean LeoneEugene Lang College The New School for Liberal ArtsEugene Lang College The New School Academic Achievement Award

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Olivia Celestine LeporaceCatholic University of America

Catholic University of America Alumni ScholarshipCatholic University of America Parish Scholarship

Catholic University of America ScholarshipLa Salle University Founders Scholarship

Moravian College Presidential Science ScholarshipMoravian College Trustee Scholarship

Caitlin Hope LiberatoreThe University of Scranton

Drexel University Dean’s ScholarshipLebanon Valley College Vickroy Half-tuition Scholarship

Saint Joseph’s University Presidential ScholarshipUniversity of Scranton Loyola Scholarship

Laura Madeline MancanoMuhlenberg College

Drexel University Trustee AwardMuhlenberg University President’s Scholarship

Patricia Rose MarsThe Catholic University of America

Commended Student, National Merit Scholarship ProgramCatholic University of America Alumni Scholarship

Catholic University of America Invitation to University Honors ProgramCatholic University of America Parish Scholarship

Catholic University of America ScholarshipHawaii Pacific University Ka‘Imi‘Ike Scholarship

Penn State University Schreyers HC Academic Excellence ScholarshipProvidence College Invitation to Liberal Arts Honors Program

Providence College St. Catherine of Siena Half-tuition Scholarship

Maura Rose McCannPennsylvania State University

Alanna Marie McCloyVillanova University


Duquesne University Academic ScholarshipDuquesne University Invitation to Honors College

Marist College Invitation to Honors ProgramMarist College Presidential Scholarship

University of Delaware Invitation to Honors ProgramUniversity of Delaware Merit-Based Scholarship

Michaela Elizabeth McCruddenThe University of Scranton

Catholic University of American Invitation to Honors ProgramCatholic University of America University ScholarshipElizabethtown College Invitation to Honors Program

Elizabethtown College Presidential ScholarshipUniversity of Scranton Dean’s Scholarship


Caroline Brigid McDermottDuquesne University

Duquesne University Academic ScholarshipDuquesne University-Sage Tuition Reward

Messiah College Provost ScholarshipMount St. Mary’s University Dean’s Scholarship

Maureen Theresa McGirrTemple University

Maryland Institute College of Art Trustee ScholarshipTemple University Scholar Award

Meghan Laura McGovernIndiana University of Pennsylvania

Catholic University of America Parish ScholarshipCatholic University of America University Scholarship

University of Scranton Loyola Scholarship

Rachel Lynn MignognaSaint Joseph’s University

Penn State University Abby Sutherland ScholarshipSaint Joseph’s University Legacy Scholarship

Saint Joseph’s University Presidential ScholarshipUniversity of Tampa Dean’s Scholarship

Erin Kelly MorganPace University, New York City

Kelly Michelle MoyerFordham University

Fordham University Jogues ScholarshipSaint Joseph’s University Presidential Scholarship

Lauren Marie MuldoonUniversity of Pittsburgh


Meghan Elizabeth MulhernUniversity of Delaware

Fordham University Jogues ScholarshipSaint Joseph’s University Presidential Scholarship

Patrice Marie MulhernPennsylvania State University

Commended Student, National Merit Scholarship ProgramDrexel University Alumni Endorsement Scholarship


Drexel University Legacy ScholarshipUniversity of Delaware Scholar

University of Delaware Invitation to Honors ProgramUniversity of Delaware Merit-Based Scholarship

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Elizabeth Boiarski O’BrienThe Ohio State University

Catholic University of America ScholarshipOhio State University Invitation to Scholars Program

Ohio State University National Buckeye Plus ScholarshipOhio State University Trustee Scholarship


Brionna Helen O’ConnorLehigh University

Catholic University of America Invitation to Honors ProgramUniversity of Delaware Merit-Based Scholarship

University of Scranton Dean’s Scholarship

Brittany Ann PalacRobert Morris University

Drexel University Dean’s ScholarshipRobert Morris University Academic Scholarship

University of Dayton Deans ScholarshipWilkes University, University Scholarship

Bianca Nicola PasquelFordham University


Fordham University Finalist/Semifinalist Full Tuition ScholarshipNortheastern University Excellence Scholarship

St. Francis College Invitation to Honors ProgramSt. Francis College Presidential Scholarship

Laura Ann PaviglianitiVillanova University

Merk Sharp & Dohme Raymond O. Hoffman AwardSaint Joseph’s University Presidential Scholarship

Saint Mary’s College Madeleva Award

Victoria Michele PerriPennsylvania State University

Laura Ann PospisilStanford University

Commended Student, National Merit Scholarship Program

Laura Anne PowellEmerson College

Emerson College Emersonian ScholarshipFordham University Jogues Scholarship

Saint Joseph’s University Presidential ScholarshipTemple University Scholar Award

Alexis Victoria PravdiukUniversity of Delaware

Albright College Provost’s ScholarshipCabrini College Catholic High School Scholarship

Cabrini College Invitation to Honors ProgramCabrini College Provost’s ScholarshipDrexel University Dean’s ScholarshipRider University Provost Scholarship

University of Scranton Loyola ScholarshipWest Chester University Barbara Jo Heck Brown ’49

Elem Ed ScholarshipWidener University Honors Program ScholarshipWidener University Invitation to Honors Program

Widener University Presidential ScholarshipYork College Dean’s Academic Scholarship

Kathleen Mary PrincivalleFordham University

Fordham University Loyola ScholarshipFordham University Tuition Award

Loyola University Maryland Invitation to Honors ProgramLoyola University Maryland Presidential Scholarship

Penn State University Smeal College Sapphire ProgramSaint Joseph’s University Invitation to Honors Program



Christina Marie RealePennsylvania State University

Saint Joseph’s University Legacy ScholarshipSaint Joseph’s University Presidential Scholarship


Meghan Therese RowleySaint Joseph’s University

Duquesne University Academic ScholarshipLa Salle University Founders Scholarship

Saint Joseph’s University, University ScholarshipUniversity of Scranton Loyola Scholarship

Nicole Ann SchneiderPennsylvania State University

Penn State University Smeal College Sapphire ProgramSaint Joseph’s University Presidential Scholarship

Nicole Marie SchusterBoston College

Boston College Athletic Scholarship

Wesley Hannah ShaneUniversity of South Carolina

University of South Carolina Invitation to Capstone Scholars ProgramUniversity of South Carolina Merit Scholarship

University of South Carolina Woodrow Scholars Award

Caroline Theresa ShawSt. John’s University

Farleigh Dickinson University Colonel Farleigh S. Dickinson ScholarshipSt. John’s University Invitation to Honors Program

St. John’s University Scholastic Excellence Scholarship

Carly Rose SmartFashion Institute of Technology

Drexel University Dean’s ScholarshipMarist College Alumni Scholarship

Philadelphia University Faculty ScholarshipUniversity of Rhode Island University Scholarship

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Brittany Grace St. ThomasUniversity of Delaware

Catholic University of America ScholarshipNortheastern University Excellence Scholarship

University of New Hampshire Dean’s ScholarshipUniversity of Scranton Loyola Scholarship

Taylor Elizabeth StablerWagner College

Fordham University Jogues ScholarshipPace University Trustee Recognition Award Scholarship

University of Scranton Loyola ScholarshipWagner College President’s Scholarship

Christine StefanowiczVillanova University

Drexel University Dean’s Scholarship

Mary Kate SteinmetzAppalachian State University

La Salle University Founders Scholarship

Alyssa Taylor Logue SteverUniversity of Pittsburgh

Drexel University Anthony J. Drexel Scholarship

Corinna Lin StiegNew York University

New York University Tisch School of the Arts Scholarship

Amanda M. StillwellLehigh University

Finalist, National Merit Scholarship ProgramDrexel University Invitation to Pennoni Honors College

Franklin & Marshall National Merit Academic ScholarshipLehigh University Lehigh Scholar Award


Caroline Ann SweeneyKutztown University

Lorraine Hilbertje SybrandyTemple University

Drexel University Dean’s ScholarshipDrexel University Invitation to Pennoni Honors College

La Salle University Founders ScholarshipLa Salle University Invitation to Honors ProgramSaint Joseph’s University Presidential ScholarshipSaint Joseph’s University United Scholars AwardTemple University Invitation to Honors Program


Catherine Elizabeth TravalineThe Catholic University of America

Catholic University of America Parish ScholarshipCatholic University of America Scholarship

George Washington University University and Alumni ScholarshipTemple University Scholar Award


Elizabeth Lonsdale TuckerUniversity of Pennsylvania


University of Pennsylvania Mayor’s ScholarshipUniversity of Pennsylvania Stamps Family Scholarship

Chierika Onaedo UkoguStanford University

Stanford University Full-Tuition Scholarship

Nicole Ashley VahleLa Salle University

La Salle University St. John Baptist de La Salle Scholarship

Alexandra Marie VandegriftUniversity of Pennsylvania

Melanie A. VandegriftMuhlenberg College

Albright College Presidential ScholarshipArcadia University Achievement Award

Arcadia University Distinguished ScholarshipArcadia University Invitation to First Year Study Abroad Experience

Arcadia University Invitation to Honors ProgramArcadia University Open House Essay Contest Scholarship

Fairfield University Bellarmine ScholarshipManhattanville College Board of Trustees ScholarshipManhattanville College Community Service Award

Manhattanville College Ophir AwardMuhlenberg College Excellence Award

Celia Katherine VinciguerraSaint Joseph’s University

Catholic University of America ScholarshipCatholic University of America Tuition Exchange Award

Moravian College Trustee ScholarshipSaint Joseph’s University Legacy Scholarship

Saint Joseph’s University Presidential ScholarshipSaint Joseph’s University Tuition Exchange Award

University of Scranton Loyola ScholarshipUniversity of Scranton Tuition Exchange Award

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Fournier Medal Recipient

Anthony Maginnis for Distinguished Service to Mount Saint Joseph Academy

Each year at graduation, the Mount presents an award to an individual who has shown great commitment to the Mount. Named for the foundress of Mount Saint

Joseph Academy, the Mother Saint John Fournier Award recognizes those members of the Mount community who have distinguished themselves through their service to the Academy. This year’s recipient, Anthony Maginnis, (father of Megan ’06) has been a wonderful presence at the Mount for many years. A member of the Board of Directors for the past six years, Tony has been an active participant on the Development Committee; he and his wife, Eileen, have been generous supporters of the Annual Fund and the Foundations for the Future capital campaign.

Photo, Left to Right: Deb Hobbs, S. Kathleen Brabson, SSJ, MSJA President; Anthony Maginnis, Eileen Maginnis and Kevin Maginnis

Emily Marie WajertPennsylvania State University

University of Scranton Dean’s ScholarshipUniversity of Scranton Invitation to Honors Program

Elizabeth Mary WaltersBucknell University

Brenda Lynn WatersPennsylvania State University


Emily Marie WilliamsThe University of Scranton

Maura Delaney WolfFairfield University


Alexandra Elizabeth ZanettiPennsylvania State University

Fairfield University Bellarmine ScholarshipSaint Joseph’s University Presidential Scholarship

Anne Alyssa ZapalacMarist College

Catholic Daughters of America ScholarshipMarist College Alumni Scholarship

Saint Joseph’s University, University Scholarship

Pauline Sophia ZilchUniversity of Delaware


Allison Hannah ZmindaSyracuse University

Commended Student, National Merit Scholarship ProgramBoston University Dean’s Scholarship

Drexel University Anthony J. Drexel ScholarshipFordham University Loyola Scholarship

Fordham University Tuition AwardLoyola University Chicago Director’s Scholarship

Loyola University Chicago Loyola ScholarshipSyracuse University Dean’s Scholarship

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No Longer GuestsSSJ Mission

Corps: Reflections on our Year of Service in Philadelphia

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New Friends, New DreamsBy Caitlin Sullivan ’05

America is known for being a melting pot of cultures, the land of opportunity. For centuries, the United States has attracted people from all corners of the world for their share of the American dream. Having grandparents, uncles, and my own father immigrate to this country, I heard the stories of my family’s difficult beginnings trying to acclimate to a new culture. Leaving behind their families and the familiar, my grandparents sacrificed much in order to snatch a piece of the American dream for their seven children. For them the American dream would only be possible through the education of their children, which was a dream they lived to see come true.

As part of my year of service at the SSJ Welcome Center for the Sisters of Saint Joseph Mission Corps, I was fortunate to experience the same hopeful determination in the spirit of the immigrants to whom I taught English and citizenship classes. Living amongst an immigrant population in the Kensington section of Philadelphia was both a growing and sobering experience. In the beginning of my volunteer experience, I found myself totally out of my comfort zone, much like many of these immigrants feel themselves. But after teaching many classes and becoming

familiar with the personal stories of my individual students, many of whom I have grown particularly close to, I quickly came to realize that the Welcome Center provided a refuge, not only for these newly minted Americans, but for me as well.

Two students in particular exhibited the same hopeful spirit that I witnessed in my grandparents and father. Danh and his wife Loan arrived in this country with their two young children from Vietnam, unable to speak the language but seeking a better life for their family. For several months, I had the privilege of helping them achieve their American dream by teaching them English while their children attended grade school in North Philadelphia. Never before had I witnessed such enthusiasm for the English language. Both Danh and

Loan never missed a class and were determined to study as much as they could. After two weeks of English, they were speaking sentences. Danh continued to practice his English outside of class, incorporating new English vocabulary words he learned during class in stories he wrote about his family and life in Vietnam. I was fortunate to be included in one of his stories, entitled, “My Friend Caitlin.” Although English classes

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at the Welcome Center have finished for the summer, Danh and Loan have both written me emails, in English, telling me about their children and their summer so far.

I am extremely grateful for what this experience has taught me and even more grateful for the individuals I have met along the way. Living in Kensington for a year was life changing, an experience I know I will carry with me throughout my lifetime. The legacy of my grandparents enabled my father to become a lawyer, and he has passed this legacy on to me. Now, more than ever, my experiences at the Welcome Center have solidified my aspirations to be an advocate for those who cannot speak for themselves. Law school will train me to be such an advocate, and the practice of law will enable me to actualize my goals so that future generations of Danhs and Loans will always have a chance at realizing their American dream.

El Amor es Más Fuerte que TodoLove is stronger than everything elseBy Mary Beth Schluckebier ’05

In all honesty, the place in which I find myself here at the end of my year with the SSJ Mission Corps is one of half-formed thoughts and feelings. It is a sort of blur of memories, stories, and emotions; some seemingly far too intense to express with words. There is much I have learned, and much I have lost; a lengthy list of insights and lessons learned from the people of this neighborhood and an even lengthier list of my own presumptions and initial ideas that have been lost and replaced with actual experiences of the reality of the poverty here. In my work this year I was given the opportunity to experience the poverty in this city at a closer distance than I had before, but the reality is I have never really been in it. I remain a guest in Kensington. I’d like to think that I shared in the life of the community here, arriving at a certain level of understanding as most guests do. The rather simple fact is that at the end of every day I had a comfortable and clean home to return to, complete with food to eat, clothes to wear, and a bed to sleep on. Most here do not. I also had a family home in Willow Grove to escape to on most weekends and enjoy a delicious meal or two. Many here have never even heard of Willow Grove. In reflection, I realize it was in this travel to and from Kensington and Willow Grove or other parts of the city that I was most deeply affected. It seems somewhat unbelievable that a twenty minute journey could offer such a striking transition in environment. With not even a quarter tank of gas, the gunshots, sirens, needles, trash, and noise become grass, clean sidewalks, trees, and quiet. In these

moments of transition, I could not help but recognize the very obvious dichotomy within and around me. There was certainly growth in the realization of this and yet a profound struggle in the reconciliation.

In my position at Visitation Parish as the Coordinator of Social Outreach, I had a variety of opportunities to offer accompaniment, services, and support to the members of our Latino community here. As with all things, some days and experiences were profound, and others more routine and comfortably padded with a numbness to the suffering around me. The access to people’s homes and hearts given to me by my work was an incredible gift; an instant encounter with people often in their most vulnerable state. Some days there was only silence when I wanted words the most. Some days I was motivated only by a sense of duty to my work. Other days I was entirely broken by the sadness around me and motivated by a desire and love for human connection. It took several months for me to learn to walk with people’s sadness and not under it. Still, I am learning. So many days, people were constantly asking me for help and each day presented a choice; a choice to simply give to them the concrete object or service which they sought, or to really give authentically with love and from myself. It’s a decision between

indifference and shared feeling.

Quickly, I discovered that when I entered into the suffering and brokenness of the people around me, there seemed a great sadness in the streets. It is a feeling I cannot describe. It is in the trash under the El, in the empty eyes of the addicts shooting heroin, in the desperate expressions of the young prostitutes on the corners, in the drunken man passed out on the pavement, and the old woman struggling to cross the street alone. It is a sadness that permeates everything. It is a raw emotion I have never encountered. Here, the formalities that often allow us to see past the hurt have been stripped away by the poverty, drugs

and hunger, revealing the raw emotions within people. I uncovered a deep desire within myself to experience this human suffering in solidarity, to walk with these people. This demanded a falling in love with the people and world around me. This too, meant bearing a part of their burden, feeling a part of their pain. This, I think, is a sacred love; a love that breaks us and leaves a piece of us behind. It is a love, however, that also sustains us.

As I approached the end of my time at Visitation it did not feel like an ending because so much love remains behind and so much love goes forth with me. My friend Dorian is a twenty-four-year-old maintenance man and self-proclaimed underground artist. Dorian came up from Mexico when he was fourteen, leaving his mother, two sisters, and two brothers behind. His twin sisters had kidney disease and his family could not afford the dialysis needed to keep them alive, so he came to the States to earn money for his sisters’ treatments. His one sister died the December after he left. From the day he arrived he has worked 16

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to earn money for his family. Just a year or two ago, doctors told Dorian that he too, has the same kidney disease. He has only one functioning kidney left, and he has decided to return to Mexico. I accompanied him to the doctor several times and witnessed as he was told lies regarding his state of health, in an attempt to avoid spending the money on treating a person who is uninsured. We were talking recently about his situation when he told me that, “El amor es más fuerte que todo” (Love is stronger than everything else). He is absolutely right. So, when Dorian returns to Mexico to his mom, and brothers, and only one sister, my love goes with him. And as I move on in my own life journey, I carry Dorian’s love with me. In this way, all that we have shared makes us a part of each other.

I remember at the end of a day in early May, after visiting several people in their homes and working in our food pantry, I returned home to realize I hadn’t washed my hands. There was a very particular smell to them, a smell that I almost initially failed to notice because it had become so familiar. It was the smell of Kensington, of people’s homes, of people on the streets, of poverty. It was not dirty. It was real. That day I had embraced the reality here in mind, body, and spirit. Despite the material poverty, there is a tangible richness of soul in the communities of this neighborhood. Sustained by the love and generosity of these people, I experienced the inextricable bond of Spirit and emotion within humanity. Each day I was prompted to delve into the mystery of suffering and justice. Surrounded constantly by the effects of our flawed immigration system, I was affirmed in my commitment to give voice to the Immigrant community. I realize that the more I learn, the less I find that can be easily explained. Although I am relentlessly questioning the meaning of suffering, faith, justice, and community, it seemed that some of the biggest answers came in some of the tiniest and simplest of moments this year.

Unfolding ClarityBy Jaclyn Newns ’05

In this time of transition with brown boxes, masking tape, and sharpies, it’s easy to label clothes, art supplies, books and décor, and shift them home to their familiar places in Glenside. What is challenging is to box and label the feelings and experiences of this year - the relationships, insights, and growth that have no proper places set aside back at home. I realize it will take a long time to understand all I encountered, living and working in new neighborhoods. The desire for instant clarity is strong, but I am trying to welcome patience with the unfolding of all the meaning this year held. I do see one idea clearly now.

Never again can I underestimate the value of one conversation. Being accompanied through this process, having my voice listened to with openness has been the validation that has kept me grounded and seeking. Talking with many women in the SSJ community freed me up to understand what I was processing all around me, in regards to the pillars of the program – spirituality, community, service, and social justice. Very recently, I was

able to name for myself my need of processing out loud. Sharing where I am is one of my vital, basic needs. We are trained in society to be independent and utterly self-reliant. I saw this very clearly a few months ago, trying to keep up with a sister who was sprinting down Lehigh Avenue juggling milk crates, plants, papers, and shoeboxes, stacked above eye level, fiercely insisting she didn’t need an extra set of hands (a common sight this year with certain SSJs). Thankfully, the pile of goods cushioned her spill against the cement pavement. Many of our neighbors walk carrying an even more daunting pile internally. One individual, whom I only spent an hour with, caused me to readjust my perspectives on resiliency and gratitude. Caitlin, Marybeth, and I helped coordinate a Catholic Relief Services food fast retreat for teens of Visitation Parish in April. One fifteen-year-old shared with me her past months of running from home, abusing her body in a number of ways, staying in treatment centers, and feeling isolated in loneliness. Her body, weak and shaking, communicated her intense fear, and her deep, dark eyes pained me with her emptiness. Some spirit in her captivated me, and her harsh yearning for love pushed in my heart just how good, safe, and comfortable my life has been. Beyond this year, her story will continue to move me outward, searching for the wide and hidden realities of our world.

I am most grateful for the one-on-one interactions with neighbors, co-workers and students, which gave me opportunities to be the supporter, answering the basic human need to be heard, while growing in awareness. In conversation with the suffering, an open, listening, gentle presence provides the haven, transcending the different backgrounds and life experiences. Unity happened for me in concrete moments this year, when people dared to be countercultural, risked being vulnerable, and chose to

co-exist. In these instances, when I and others became inter-dependent, glimpses of unifying love resurrected divine strength through human brokenness.

Moving forward, I will be starting in August as campus minister at Villa Joseph Marie High School in Holland, Pennsylvania. Shaped by experiences of ministry from the Mount, The University of Scranton, and The SSJ Mission

Corps, I hope to facilitate opportunities for students to engage in open spaces of spirituality, community, service, and social justice. To all the Sisters of Saint Joseph, I am so deeply grateful for your support, guidance and love. Your mission for unity will stay with me and continue to nourish my work. Living and working with you, I came to know the meaning of true hospitality. You will always have my deepest respect and gratitude.

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WWhen did you first start writing fiction?I remember writing as early as 4. My first poem was about a family of bunnies I found at my grandmother’s

house, and the last line was: “But what lies beneath the glory?” My next poem was about a man standing alone under a streetlight. I was a weird kid. I was bossy and loud around my family but around everyone else shy and bookish and I really wanted there to be secret worlds and magic.

What was your first published piece? A short story called “North Of.” It is about a girl who brings Bob Dylan home for Thanksgiving dinner. It was rejected by 36 literary magazines before The Mississippi Review took it.

What authors, books or stories influenced you in your fiction writing?Growing up, I couldn’t get enough of fantasy and science fiction (Lloyd Alexander and Madeleine L’Engle and anything about King Arthur), with occasional breaks for books about

teenaged sleuths. In high school and college I loved poets and playwrights like Shakespeare, Llorca, Tom Stoppard. As a (semi) adult, my reading is wide and varied: books about famous correspondences: letters between two people, children’s books, books on reptiles, the butterflies, the lives of painters and

burlesque. JD Salinger, Raymond Carver, Cormac McCarthy, and short story writers too numerous to list.

What teachers or classes influenced you at the Mount?Mrs. Marguerite McGlinn’s Honors English class. She championed a poem I wrote called “Jazzman,” and when I was a Senior asked me to speak to her Freshman and Sophomore classes about writing poetry. After the class I said to her, “That was so much fun, maybe I’ll be a teacher.” And she said, bluntly, “You’re not here to be a teacher. You’re here to be a writer.” I’ve never forgotten that.

Have you written any non-fiction?No. The idea of writing something that has to stand up to fact checking scares the daylights out of me. My favorite part

Mount Alumna Marie-Helene Bertino ‘95, recently had her short story, “Carry Me Home, Sisters of St. Joseph” published in the spring 2010 edition of American Short Fiction, a quarterly journal of fiction. Marie-Helene took the inspiration for her story from her years as a student at Mount Saint Joseph Academy.

Writing About What She Knows

An Interview with Marie-Helene Bertino ’95

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of fiction is that I can make it up, and that is limited only by my imagination.

Are you a full-time writer? Or do you have another occupation in addition to writing?

I am a biographer for a law firm on Wall Street that specializes in injuries resulting in traumatic brain injury. My job is to interview the client, their friends and family, and write their life story. It involves talking to a lot of people in pain, which is a nice break from writing fiction about people in pain. Ha. Also, I am the Associate Editor for One Story (www.one-story.com), a literary magazine based in Brooklyn that publishes one short story every three weeks. Most writers have to supplement their writing by working “day jobs.” I think being a bartender or waitress is the ideal job for a writer: anything that puts you in contact with people you can observe. I’ve always wanted to own a coffee shop. Maybe someday I will.

What made you decide to write “Carry Me Home, Sisters of St. Joseph?”

I told someone about how Sister Mary Dacey would hip-hop dance with my friends and me at Mount dances and every year at Celebrauction in front of the whole school. I didn’t think it was a big deal, but the person I told couldn’t believe it. A nun hip-hop dancing? To “A Tribe Called Quest,” no less. I realized the fun and progressive Sisters of Saint Joseph might come as a surprise to people. Then, I worked briefly as a kindergarten teacher’s assistant, which was my first real interaction with kids, and I was surprised by how amazing it was to be with them. I kept notes on what I learned there. Finally, a long time ago my Mom gave me a pamphlet on How to Quit Smoking and the first lesson was: any time you want a cigarette, eat an apple or start a hobby! I joked that if I started a hobby any time I wanted a cigarette I would have 20 hobbies by the end of the day. I thought, what if a girl followed this pamphlet to get over a breakup? All of that coalesced into the writing of this story.

Were there any Sisters in particular on whom you based your characters?Nope, though I borrowed the name Sister Charlene from Sister

Charlene Diorka who taught me at the Mount. In the story, Sister Helena is based on my mom, Helene.

Which College did you attend, and what was your major?

I went to Villanova and was an English major. Villanova has great programs in fields like nursing

and engineering, but I wouldn’t recommend it for young artists.

Any advice for Mounties who are aspiring writers?

Keep writing. Be curious about how different people live. Talk to everyone; doormen, waiters, motorcycle guys, your grandparents. I am sometimes unintentionally glib, and sometimes my writing sounds glib, so take time to get to know yourself because the problem with you will be the problem with your writing. For the converse reason, cultivate hobbies. Run and cook and sing and play the drums and hug your parents and kids and sister and whoever. Then, keep writing. Rescue a dog or cat. Collect stories. Other people will tell you to read to excess, but I’ll let you slack on that if you promise to listen to people and ask questions. When you ask a question, listen to the answer. Listen to the criticism of people you respect and let it make you better. Don’t write because you think it’s cool, because if you are doing it correctly it is the least cool thing on the planet. Cultivate

the ability to be so lost in thought that you can’t hear your own name being called. Be secretive and bold and stick up for the underdog and the little guy. Drive around America and stop in Kansas. Backpack around Europe and watch a World Cup game. Keep writing. Think about semi-colons and punctuating dialogue for hours. When discouraged, don’t listen to anything besides the voice that told you you were a writer in the first place; that is the voice that will be there for you when everyone and everything else goes away; it is like the voice Kermit sang about that “calls the young sailors.” It’s someone that you’re supposed to be. Keep writing. If any of this sounds like a root canal to you, do something else.

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Lunchtime at the Mount has long been filled with

colorful and delicious menu items, and now, thanks to members of Mount’s Art Club, the wall decor reflects this reality. This past spring, this dedicated group of artists designed and painted an eye-catching and clever mural that now hangs in the kitchen of the Mount --right over the salad bar. The delicious colors and whimsical themes promise many entertaining moments gazing at the mural, which is a landscape with playful food items depicting the menu lovingly put together by Mount’s Executive Chef, Dennis Littley.

There are Buffalo Chickens (chickens with buffalo heads); Cauliflower Sheep, a dog shaped like a Hot Dog, Broccoli Trees, a Chocolate Chip Cookie Road, Windmill Pizza Slices, a Mountain range made with loaded baked potatoes, and a sunset made from a grapefruit section.

Remember those cute pumpkins that the art club painted and sold back in the fall? Some of the pumpkins sported Phillies symbols because it was around the time of the World Series.

With the money raised, the club purchased one male and one female goat for the street children in Babati, Tanzania, through the Harambee Foundation, which aids the Manyara Holistic Centre (MAHOCE), a youth hostel and safe haven for street children and orphans.

The children are rehabilitated within their community and cultural context and provided with education so that they may return to society as productive members. The Harambee Foundation is their main donor.

Our Mounties asked that the goats be named ‘Pumpkin’ and ‘Philly.’ If all goes as hoped, this will be the start of a small herd of goats for the children, to provide them with fresh milk.

Turning Pumpkins Into Goats!

And, since the mural pays tribute to Dennis’ devotion to the students, faculty, and staff. Dennis is depicted in the mural as the Chef in the Banana Boat.

“The girls dedicated the mural to Dennis, in honor of all he has given to the Mount Community,” said Cherie Parsons, Art teacher at the Mount. “Dennis really takes care of the kids.”

Just be sure to keep the line moving!!

In the photo above, some of the primary mural artists gather with teachers and Dennis in front of their creation. From left to right are Mrs. Cheri Parsons, Art Club Moderator; Leigh Anne Tiffany ‘11,Art Club President; Mary Naydan ‘11, Art Club Co-Vice President; Chef Dennis Littley; Jessica Agostinelli ‘11, Art Club Co-Vice President; Elise Taylor, ‘11; Sarah Haenn, ‘12; and S. Cathie Meighan, SSJ. Not pictured are Brianna Sylvester ’12 and Erin Walsh ’11.

A Mural For Dennis

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During last year’s 150th Anniversary Celebreation, the Mount Community learned about lace, weaving, and the link between the Founding Sisters of Saint Joseph

in Le Puy, France, who taught the women of their day how to weave lace in order to make a living to support themselves and their children.

It seems only fitting that Mounties would naturally be curious to learn this timeless art of weaving. Recently, MSJA Art Teacher, Sister Cathie Meighan, SSJ, accepted the donation of a magnificent oak loom from the recently closed SSJ Cecilian Center, and gave the students the opportunity to try their hand at weaving, with stunning results.

In true Mountie style, this was no self-serving task; the group of students, 20 in all, applied for a grant from the 150th Anniversary Fund, using the name, "Weaving the Threads of Justice." The funds are being used to teach the girls how to weave, and to provide baby blankets for unwed mothers at Mothers Home (www.

mothershome.org/) along with scarves for the homeless for a homeless shelter in Delaware called Sojourners' Place (www.sojournersplace.org/).

Thanks to the expert tutelage of master weaver Janell Wysock, who met with the girls twice a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays, the students have learned how to thread the loom and how to create a warp (weaving a warp is how you arrange the yarn so as to form the warp of a piece of cloth). Each girl made her own hand-held loom, so she was able to weave while others were working on the large loom.

The group has great plans for the coming year. According to Sister Cathie Meighan, "We are planning trips to Artist studios and the Fabric Museum in Philly this school year. We have elected officers for the club, and the girls are extremely excited about it all.”

The group has plans for continued funding this year. With some of the grant money, the group purchased a belt loom so they will be able to make and sell belts to help fund the club. In this way, they will be able to continue production once the grant money runs out.

Photos: Angela Schwartz ’13 and Sara Wang ’13 with Janell

Brielle Harvey ’12 works on a hand loom with Janell.

Lacing a New Legacy

Weaving the Threads of

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TThe lyrics above are from “Carry Your Candle,” a song well-known to Mounties, and so appropriate for our trip. For the fifth year, Mount Saint Joseph Academy continued

its tradition of sending students and faculty to Canton to give service to its residents. Campus Minister Sister Joannie Cassidy and Ms. Lydia Stieber accompanied 10 Mount students (Christine Burns ’10, Alyssa Drummy ’10, Katie Gallagher ’10, Melissa Gavin ’11, McKenna Kardish ’11, Giana Mandel ’11, Melissa Pfeifer ’11, Annemarie Ellman ’12, Maureen Gallagher ’12, and Madison Koestler ’12) as we traveled on a life-changing week-long experience in this diverse city.

We arrived in Canton on Easter Monday, welcomed by the warm 90-degree temperature and the blazing sun. We soon realized that the weather was not the only difference from our home. In comparison to the fast-paced, always active cities of the Northeast, Canton was a quiet, relaxed, southern town filled with beautiful people. Although there were no flashing neon signs or skyscrapers, the people of Canton really gave the city its life. Everywhere we turned, we saw people talking on their front porches, playing in their yards or just walking around the town. The people of Canton seemed so welcoming and eager to meet us, and we were just as eager to spend time with them.

Our first chance to serve came from a small Catholic school in Jackson, Mississippi, called The Sr. Thea Bowman School. This school is comparable to La Salle Academy in Philadelphia. Here, we had the opportunity to paint a United States map on one of the walls in their hallway. As we painted, we could feel the school getting just a little bit brighter, and even brighter as

students walked by, smiling with excitement at the new addition to their school. Some of the children from each grade were able to help us paint the map. The children seemed so happy to have us there, gracing us with warm hugs and smiles. One little girl, Kelly, had only been introduced to me briefly, but when

we were leaving, called out ,“Where’s Melissa?”. When I stepped forward, she immediately gave me a hug and thanked me for all that we had done that day. I was amazed at the impact we could have on these children after spending only a short time with them. The smile on her face and the faces of all the children there really made all of our work worthwhile.

A local organization, Madison Countians Allied Against Poverty (MadCAAP), took us to the home of mother and son, Irene and Greg. To qualify for this service, people must live below the poverty line. Greg was 18 years old when he was shot and is currently partially paralyzed and can

only communicate through a machine. However, both were proud of everything they had. As we were clearing out the rooms we were going to paint, we noticed that Irene had many ordinary objects that, to us, seemed useless, but to her, meant the whole world. When we asked Irene what color she wanted her room to be, her only request was that the color match her picture of Jesus. For someone who had so little, her faith was immense.

Another memory that stands out in our minds is the time we spent with the children who live in a Hispanic trailer park, many of whom attend the local Catholic school, called The Holy Child Jesus School (HCJS). They are only able to attend this school with the financial help of several religious communities. Whether counting to one hundred, playing with a ring toss, or dancing to Spanish music at the fiesta, the joy in these children’s

Mississippi on My Mind

...and in my heart

by Giana Mandel ’11 and Melissa Pfeifer ’11

“We are a family whose hearts are blazing,So let’s raise our candles and light up the sky.

Make us a beacon in darkest times.”

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hearts was resilient. Their parents too, despite their desperate situations, were dancing, laughing, and taking pictures with their children. The parents worked in a near-by chicken factory and worked long hours. Each family however, contributed its own culture to the fiesta, bringing food, music, and new dances. One family brought a container of lettuce. Another family brought one bottle of soda, another the tamales. At the end of this fun-filled night, one young boy, Joel, was so sad to leave that he stood outside, refusing to leave with his mother. It took all ten of us to help him realize that our time together, though limited, was very special. Another young boy was Brian. I (Giana) walked over to him and his mother with some of the other girls, greeted them in Spanish, and soon enough, I was playing with Brian. Although he could not speak English, words were not necessary. My presence communicated to him that I was there as a friend. When I saw him the next night at the fiesta, I could tell he recognized me and the other girls and he was right up there dancing the night away with us.

Throughout our time in Canton, hope seemed to be a common theme. One young boy, Mikey, had dreams of growing up to be an astronaut.

The children still had big hopes and dreams. One woman, a relative of Rosa’s, had hope that she would see her mother and sister again. They lived in Mexico. She had not seen them in 10 years. At the weekly mass we attended at the Sr. Thea Bowman School, the priest spoke about hope to all the young children, saying that he hoped all of us would grow in love of God and one another. We met a man named Jim in Waveland, MS, who, just a few short years ago, had survived the devastation of Hurricane Katrina. However, he never gave up hope and now lives happily in a place that perfectly suits him. All of us who traveled to Canton wanted each of them to know they were remembered and that they are not forgotten.

All of us who went on this life-changing trip have not been able to stop thinking about it since our return! The smiles of the children, warm welcomes of the adults, and overall hospitable feeling of Canton, Mississippi, have been thought of and talked

about constantly over the past few weeks. Those with so little reminded us of what really matters. Our connection with Canton was certainly not broken when we got on the plane back to Philadelphia. Sophomore Annemarie Ellman will continue her connection with the wonderful people of Canton. Rather than receiving personal gifts at her sweet sixteen birthday party, she is asking for donations to directly benefit the children of the Holy Child Jesus School as well as the Hispanic Community. Annemarie’s selflessness is a true example of the immense

impact this trip had on all of our lives.

Lodell, one of three African American women living in the Hispanic trailer park, really put this trip in perspective. She found so much joy in keeping an eye out for the local Hispanic children—something that was so small, yet so important. She said that they had become family to her. Lodell reminds us of the “Carry Your Candle” lyrics when she told each of us that we are all family, we just look different. She and all of the other people we encountered during our trip to Mississippi touched us. Lodell’s heart was ablaze. She inspired and taught the Mount delegation a very important lesson in love and service. This we will carry with us forever.

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Champions of Caring

Five Students Honored for Individual Community Service Workby the Champions of Caring Foundation

Five students from Mount Saint Joseph Academy were honored at the 15th Annual Champions of Caring Recognition Program on Thursday, May 20 at Drexel

University. The Champions of Caring program honored 75 teens from throughout the Philadelphia region for their commitment to service and social justice.

Pictured, back row, left to right: Grace Cipressi ’10, Victoria Elliot ’11, and Kerri Gallagher ’11.

Front row, left to right: Leigh Anne Tiffany ’11, Erin Tiffany ’13, and Sister Joannie Cassidy, SSJ, MSJA Campus Minister.

Champions of Caring is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to sensitizing, educating, and empowering young people to take active roles in improving their communities.

The invitation to the event stated, “In light of the negative attention placed on flash mobs and youth violence, join us as we celebrate inspirational teens who are making a difference locally and globally."

Spring FlingOver 55 vendors were on hand to sell their unique products, and over 300 happy shoppers attended this year’s annual Spring Fling, held on Sunday, April 25th at the Mount. This popular event is sponsored by the Parent and Alumnae Associations’ Special Events Committee.

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TTonight, we celebrate our oneness with God and with each other and the relationships that have grown out of this oneness. Throughout our past three years at Mount

Saint Joseph Academy, we have had the opportunity to create lasting bonds with classmates, teammates, and teachers, people who have nurtured and supported us as we have grown. We have formed groups of friends and have figured out what it means to be a Mountie. But as leaders of the school now we are called to more. We are called to choose to live what we have come to know.

As young women attending the Mount, we have the singular opportunity of being united into a class of the future leaders of society. But what kind of future leaders will we be? Compassionate ones, honest ones, innovative ones? Look around you… the future, our future, will be built upon the growth of choices that take place now. Tonight, we celebrate this opportunity to become young women who will lead the world to change.

The rings we receive tonight remind us of all we can be as individuals, but also who we can be together as a class. Now as

Junior Ring LiturgyRing Liturgy Reflection by Dana MacIntosh ’11

“I have given them the glory you gave me, so that they may all be one.”

Spring ConcertMSJA’s Department of Fine Arts presented the Annual Spring Concert, “Playlist

of a World Traveler,” on April 28th and 29th in the Fournier Auditorium. The concert featured the MSJA Orchestra and Glee Club, Sweet Madelines,

Choral Class, and Handbell Choir. Under the direction of Choral Conductor Donald Holdren and Orchestra Conductor William Whitaker, the groups delighted audiences with selections from the contemporary, jazz, broadway and light classical repertoire.

(Continued on following page)25

Congratulations Spring 2010 All-Stars

Seated left to right: Stevie Wells ’11, Corinne Caracausa ’10; Standing: Shannon Zoldy ’11

Track and Field

Seated left to right: Kate Gross ’13—second team; Meg McGovern ’10—honorable mention. Standing: Caroline Sweeney ’10—second team; Morgan McCafferty ’11—1st team

Softball

Alyssa Drummy ’101st team, pitcher

Lacrossestudents and later as Alumnae, we have and will have a community offering us a strong circle of support.

There are only 147 copies of this ring, and they all belong to people in this room. All the same, yet personalized with that special something that makes us all unique. We could get gold with a sunburst cut or silver with Quadra cut and initials. Our class has such varied people as our choices for rings. We are funny, serious, outgoing, shy, stressed, relaxed. As the class of 2011, we come together like pieces of a mosaic: each piece distinct and beautiful, yet even more extraordinary in totality.

As we heard in the Gospel, we are called to be “completely one.” Our class rings also symbolize God’s love that is never-ending. We have come to learn to respect each person, especially our classmates.

We are set apart from the other Mount classes because only we have had the same experiences, but we are connected by the mission. The Mount has instilled in us a sense that the future of society rests in our hands. Just as all those who have gone before us, we, too, are called to strive for unity and reconciliation with God and all people. We achieve this unity by joining together at class retreats every year. These retreats are a break from the stress of our Mount life where we can reconnect with God and with each other to mend relationships – to create stronger bonds. It is important to remember the times we have come together for shared experiences.

No longer new, Founder’s Day is a long-awaited moment to share. Sitting in the chapel, we look up at the stars on the ceiling and we know we are in a familiar place called home. The walk back invites us to be the first to kick off our loafers and join in the all-girls dance party. We are a part of something bigger than ourselves. We are a part of a faith community that, along with God, the eternal unifier, has shaped the path of our lives. Someday when we look down at our rings on our fingers, we will think about all the lives we have touched, changed. We remember all those whose lives touched us.

During high school, remember God’s enduring love that has no beginning and no end. Let us remember the challenging times that made us strong and the laughs along the way. Let us wear our rings proudly because they unite us as a class and represent the circle of relationships that will continue to support us in the future.

Ring Liturgy Continued

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CrewVicky Babson—UCLASam Brecht—PittsburghNatalie Carlone—University of ConnecticutColleen Delaney—Drexel UniversityMary Duff—GeorgeWashington UniversityChierika Ukogu—Stanford UniversityRebecca Duffin—University of PennsylvaniaKatie Gregor—Duke UniversitySarah Jordan—University of VirginiaLauren Gresko—MITAlanna McCloy—Villanova UniversityAmanda Stillwell—Lehigh UniversityLaura Pospisil—Stanford University

Cross Country/ Track and FieldAlex Fylypovych—Fairfield UniversityCaroline Sweeney—Kutztown University

Pictured at left are the eight seniors who have signed a national letter of intent for the following colleges and sports:

Front row, left to right: Sarah Jordan, UVA, crew; Rebecca Duffin, Penn, Crew; Emily Gimpel, William and Mary, Golf; Nicole Schuster, Boston College, Field Hockey.

Back row, left to right: MSJA President Sister Kathleen Brabson, SSJ; Chierika Ukogu, Stanford, Crew; Corrine Carcausa, Holy Cross, Lacrosse, MSJA Athletic Director, Janet Columbro; Vicky Babson, UCLA, Crew; Katie Gregor, Duke, Crew; and MSJA Principal, Dr. Judith A. Caviston

Eight Seniors Sign National Letters of Intent

Mount’s Scholar Athletes Seniors Playing in College

Congratulations to the following Senior Athletes who will be playing their sport in college:

Field HockeyCaitlin Liberatore—University of ScrantonNicole Schuster—Boston College

GolfEmily Gimpel—College of William and MaryLaura Mancano—Muhlenberg College

LacrosseCorinne Caracausa—College of the Holy Cross

SoccerTara Barr—Pennsylvania State University

SwimmingSuzy Lawlor—Fairfield University

VolleyballMichaela McCrudden—University of Scranton

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TTwenty bright-eyed women in evening gowns squeeze together arm-in-arm around blushing bride, Christina Peruto Post (’97), at her wedding

in May. These women, who I am proud to call my fellow Alumnae and friends, send radiant smiles toward the wedding photographer for a “Mount Picture” that included all the former Mounties at the wedding. We rushed to be a part of a picture that would undoubtedly reach the Mount Magazine and untold numbers of Facebook and email accounts. As we leaned in closer to Chrissy and wrapped arms around friends, I took a moment to revel in how nice it felt to be surrounded by my former classmates. What was it about our being together that immediately felt special?

Of course, it is our common denominator – The Mount. The spirit of the school, and what we shared there as students, radiated from each one of us just as brightly as our smiles. When you have a lasting experience like this, it makes you wonder how to give back to a school that has given you so much.

Many of you, I am sure, feel the same way. This article explores a variety of ways we can give back to the Mount.

Giving comes in all shapes and sizes. The way we give today may change as we go through different stages of our lives. Let’s explore what a gift to charity is and what the benefits are of donating.

Why I Give...and

How You Can, Too...by Kristin Biermann Hillsley ’97

What constitutes a gift to charity?A gift to charity is simply a gratuitous transfer of property to a charitable organization like the Mount. The key is that your gift must be some kind of property. There are several different types of property that can be donated to charity, and a gift is limited only by your imagination. Are you the type who wants to donate cash, stock, or your lunch box collection from a 1960s sitcom?

What are the tax benefits of donating to charity?Through tax legislation, Congress has attempted to encourage

charitable giving for the good of society. As a result, charitable giving has become interconnected with the tax laws, which have grown more and more complex.

Congress has made giving more attractive for taxpayers who donate to qualified charities like the Mount. First, you generally receive an income tax deduction in the year you make the gift. Second, you do not have to worry about gift tax because federal gift tax does not apply to charitable gifts. Third, charitable gifts serve to reduce your taxable estate, thus reducing your potential estate tax liability.

It is this last area--estate tax--where charitable giving may produce the greatest tax benefits. Over the next 30 years, an estimated $8 trillion of assets will pass from one generation to the next, resulting in the assessment of significant

Kristin Biermann Hillsley ’97 serves on the Planned Giving Council at the Mount, lending her financial planning expertise to those in our Mount Community who are interested in the Sister Claire Helene Society.

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“I took a moment to revel in how nice it felt to be

surrounded by my former classmates...”

estate taxes. One solution to minimize these estate taxes is charitable giving.

What options do you have for donating to charity?An outright giftAn outright gift is one way to support a charity like the Mount. In this instance, your gift will be for the charity’s benefit only, and the charity will take possession of the gift immediately.

There are many ways to make an outright gift to the Mount including direct donations to the school through fundraising initiatives like the Mount Annual Giving Fund. Each year, gifts to the Mount Fund are used to make up the difference between tuition revenue and the cost to operate the school. This helps the Mount keep tuition competitive to ensure that many capable students can receive a Mount education. You can even make a direct donation to the school online by visiting www.msjaalum.org.

Leaving a LegacyA Will: You work hard to accumulate your wealth, and you probably find it comforting to know that after your death the assets you leave behind will continue to be a source of support for your family, friends, and the causes that are important to you, like the Mount. But to ensure that your legacy reaches your heirs as you intend, you must make the proper arrangements now. One way is through creating and/or updating your will.

A will is the cornerstone of any estate plan. You should have a will no matter how much your estate is worth. You can leave property by will in two ways: making specific bequests and making general bequests. A specific bequest directs a particular piece of property to a particular person (“I leave Aunt Martha’s diamond broach to my niece, Jen”). A general bequest is typically a percentage of property or property that is left over after all specific bequests have been made. Typically, principal heirs receive general bequests. (“I leave all the rest of my property to my wife, Jane”).

Is there a specific item that you cherish that you would like the Mount to have? Or, could you see yourself including the Mount family with your loved ones as you make your general bequests?

Another opportunity to include the Mount in your legacy plan is through beneficiary designation. Property that is contractual in nature, such as life insurance, annuities, and retirement accounts, passes to heirs by beneficiary designation. To designate or change a beneficiary on any of these items,

typically, all you have to do is fill out and sign a form. Beneficiaries can be persons or entities, such as the Mount, and you can name multiple beneficiaries to share the proceeds. For example, if you have three children, you can designate each child and the Mount to each receive one quarter of your IRA

upon your passing.

A Trust for Highly Appreciated Stock Positions

Whether you inherited a large holding, exercised options to buy your company’s stock, sold a private business, hold restricted stock, or have benefited from repeated stock splits over the years, having a large position in a single stock carries unique challenges. Even if the stock has done well, you may want more diversification, or have new financial goals that require a shift in strategy.

When a single stock dominates your portfolio, however, selling the stock may be complicated by more than just the associated tax consequences. The choices appropriate for you are complex and will depend on your own situation and tax considerations, but one option for highly appreciated stock, is to donate it to a charitable remainder trust (CRT).

First, when you set up a CRT to benefit an organization like the Mount, you receive a tax deduction when you make the contribution. Second, the trust can typically sell the stock without paying capital gains taxes, and reinvest the proceeds to provide an income stream for you as the donor. Finally, when the trust is terminated, the charity retains the remaining assets. You can set a payout rate that meets both your financial objectives and your philanthropic goals; however, the donation is irrevocable.

Going ForwardThroughout life, we all have our own “Mount Picture” moment, where the spirit of the Mount comes back and fills our hearts. There are so many ways for us to help support this legacy for generations to come. I hope the suggestions in the article have been helpful.

Kristin Biermann Hillsley ’97 is a licensed financial consultant and partner of the Cake Hillsley Group of Janney Montgomery Scott in Blue Bell, PA. Her boutique wealth management practice is designed to help families grow and preserve their wealth. She can be reached at 215-619-3914 or at [email protected].

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Did you Know?

19% of Mount students will be receiving financial aid in 2010-2011. Thank you for your support!

Over 100 parents, Alumnae and friends of the Mount gathered in Fontbonne for

the Harvest Club Dinner on May 13, 2010. The dinner honors those who have given to the Annual Fund at the Purple & Gold or Harvest Club levels, or who have volunteered their time at the Mount during the past school year.

To make it even more special, members of the MSJA Culinary Club assisted Mount’s Executive Chef Dennis Littley in the preparation and serving of the delicious fare.

Harvest Club

Dinner

2009-2010 Annual Fund

On June 30, 2010, the 2009-2010 MSJA Annual Fund Appeal closed with an overall total of $444,670; exceeding

the 100% goal of $375,000.

With pride and appreciation, the Development Office recognizes the collective generosity of the entire Mount Community during these difficult economic times. Gifts from Alumnae, Current and Past Parents, faculty and staff wholly support the young women at the Mount each and every day.

Please accept our gratitude for the many ways in which you have made Mount Saint Joseph Academy a priority in your charitable giving. We humbly look forward to your continued participation and commitment next year.

For more information about the MSJA Annual Fund, please contact Jill Gregori, Director of Development at [email protected] or call 215-233-1859.

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Summer 2010

Dear Alumnae,

“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams…” Eleanor Roosevelt

Summer always seems like the perfect time to take a few moments to ponder dreams and what the future holds for us. MSJA was established because of Mother St. John Fournier’s vision and dreams. As members of the Alumnae Association, we continue to carry on her spirit. That spirit and drive is recognized in every activity and new plan that we pursue.

In keeping with our deeply-rooted tradition, Alumnae gathered together on March 20th to enjoy the Mount’s 115th Alumnae Day Celebration. The day began at Chestnut Hill College with a lovely luncheon to welcome the newest members of our “Golden Girls.” That evening a mass and cocktail reception were held at the Academy for over 300 Alumnae celebrating reunions.

While the weather was anything but spring-like, it did not dampen the success of our third Annual Spring Fling. Over 350 Alumnae, students, parents and friends of the Mount community enjoyed a fun-filled day of shopping.

Alumnae induction for the Class of 2010 was held on May 13th. A record number of Alumnae Mothers and Grandmothers participated in the medal presentation. Each year the graduating class fills us again with hope as they become part of the Mount’s Alumnae community.

Mark your calendars for our Annual Golf Outing, Monday, September 27th at Blue Bell Country Club. It is our second largest fundraiser, and 50 percent of its proceeds fund the Alumnae Grant, which provides a needs-based tuition grant to the daughter of a Mount Alum. The golf outing is a great time to take a break from your daily commitments and enjoy the outdoors with friends.

Our Alumnae Association thrives today thanks to your dedication and support. Your continued generosity is evident as we continue to see increased participation in Mount Alumnae events and The Mount Fund. It is through this initiative that future generations of Mounties can see their dreams come true.

Wishing you warm summer breezes and a few moments to enjoy them,

Trish Zugay Burkholder ‘74President, MSJA Alumnae Association

A Letter from the Alumnae Association President

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OOn May 13th, the members of the Class of 2010 were inducted into the MSJA Alumnae Association. This special day allows us to celebrate our new Alumnae Association members, as well as recognize the generational legacy that is ever-present at the Mount! In this photograph, members of the Class of 2010 are seated in the front row,

with their Mothers (or Grandmothers) standing behind them.

Back Row, left to right: Trish Zugay Burkholder ’74, Alumnae Association President; Kathleen Rhoads Waters ’52, Eileen Foley McCrudden ’79, Maureen McCrudden Foley ’79, Jennifer Maguire Princivalle ’81, Mary Pat McGann Mars ’82, Mary Beth Morrissey Stefanowicz ’84, Maya Calbazana Cheek ’79, Ann Marie McGirr MCloy ’78, Patricia Morrissey Walters ’81, Constance Keogh Mulhern ’76, Lorraine Sukalski McGlynn ’52, Patricia Reilly Dehel ’52, Anne McCormack ’75, Judy Burger Dysart ’71, Patricia McDermott Dixon ’72, S. Kathleen Brabson, SSJ, President. Not pictured: Jennifer Lin ’76, Maryalice Harrington Cleary ’76.

Front Row, left to right: Paula Hill, Brenda Waters, Michaela McCrudden, Dierdre Foley, Katie Princivalle, Patricia Mars, Christine Stefanowicz, Meghan Cheek, Alanna McCloy, Elizabeth Walters, Meghan Mulhern, Tara Beppel, Melissa Hegarty, Katharine Gallagher, Dana Dysart, Carolyn Dixon, Corinna Stieg, Rosemary Cleary

Alumnae Induction ’10

Save the Date!

AlumnAe BoArd open meeting

October 19, 2010 6:30 pmAlumnae Room

Look for Connections in your mailbox in August... Because there’s no better time to come back to the Mount than now!

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Alumnae Day

Album

March 20, 2010

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Hall of FameEtta Pisano Kylstra ’75

The MSJA Hall of Fame was established to honor an Alumna who has exhibited service and loyalty to the Mount, who has made contributions to the Mount and whose efforts have made a difference in her community. The nominee should be a woman who has achieved a level of excellence in her profession or vocation while sharing the values of MSJA and its Alumnae Association, thereby serving as an example for all Alumnae and students of Mount Saint Joseph Academy.

MSJA Alumnae Association

Alumnae Awards

She has been a principal investigator or co-investigator on 42 research studies involving millions of dollars of funding. Just one

of these projects studied the treatment of over 50,000 women to determine the best way to detect breast cancer.

She has made 446 presentations at conferences and symposiums and has written 170 articles about a wide variety of women’s health issues and breast cancer.

She has authored two books, one of which has become the definitive textbook on digital mammography. She is on the editorial board for six medical journals and is reviewer on 18 other journals.

She has obtained three patents with her team, pushing the boundaries of medical imaging equipment

Family is high in Etta’s priorities, and she often speaks to women’s groups

about balancing the pressures of work and family. She met her husband, Jan, at Dartmouth College and has been married to him for 29 years. They have four magnificent children. As their Aunt, I can assure you, they are smart, creative and loving.

Good Afternoon - my name is Bea Kay Pisano Stryker. I am Etta’s sister, a year younger and also a Mountie. Etta graduated in 1975, and I graduated in 1976. So I am doubly proud today, as a sister and as a Mountie, to celebrate Etta’s accomplishments.

After she graduated from the Mount, Etta attended Dartmouth College, then went on to Duke Medical School. Following that, she worked several years in Boston as a Radiology Resident at Harvard’s Beth Israel Medical Center. Eventually she happily launched her career-- a career that has resulted in a 60 page resume, so far.

Currently she has a number of responsibilities at the University of North Carolina. Etta is the Vice Dean at the UNC Medical School, The Director of one of UNC’s Research Centers, the Director of the UNC Biomedical Imaging Center, the Director of the Breast Imaging Center and a Professor of Radiology at UNC.

Excerpt from the Alumnae Day SpeechGiven by Bea Kay Pisano Stryker ’76

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The Rosemary McNally ’17 Alumnae Award is presented annually to an Alumna who has distinguished herself through consistent dedication and outstanding service to Mount Saint Joseph Academy. The recipient will have contributed to the welfare of the school and the Alumnae Association as well as have a record of contributing to the Annual Fund. The President of the Alumnae Association will present one award each year. This award has been named for Rosemary McNally ’17, a longtime friend and supporter of the Mount, whose commitment, service and dedication to the Academy serve as an example and inspiration to all Alumnae.

This year’s recipient, Madge Mansell Keehn, Class of 1950, has dedicated her time, talent and energy to the Mount for many years. As a class rep, she makes sure to keep in contact with her classmates, urging their attendance at reunions and participation in the Annual Fund. As an Alumnae Board member, she volunteers for countless events, pitching in wherever needed.

She was an incredible asset to the Academy during the planning of the 150th Anniversary. She contributed her talent as a reporter and helped to organize the archives of the Academy. On many afternoons, she can be found walking the halls of the Mount with her dog, Austin Rose, much to the delight of our students. We are very grateful for her dedication to and passion for the Mount for the past 55 years.

The Rosemary McNally ’17

Alumnae AwardMadeleine Mansell Keehn ’50

Of Etta’s many great qualities, there are two in particular that I admire.

One, she is very Brave.

Etta was brave when she took on the healthcare establishment, challenging them to adopt better diagnostic equipment and procedures to detect breast cancer. That campaign led her to become known as “the mother of digital mammography.”

Etta was brave when she refused to settle for the way x-rays currently are used in healthcare. She decided to challenge the thinking of enormous companies like Seimens and GE by developing a new process for taking x-rays. Her team is creating a machine that will significantly reduce radiation exposure using Diffraction Imaging. Hopefully this new machine will be in hospitals throughout the world within the next 10 years.

The second quality that I truly admire about Etta is that she includes people. In all her projects, grants, articles, etc, there are usually several other people on the adventure with her.

Through the years, Etta has included in her various quests the students she has mentored, the co-workers she has sponsored and encouraged, her colleagues working in collaboration with her, and, of course, her patients, whom she empowers with knowledge about breast cancer, so they can take command of their own fate.

The community service part of Etta’s resume is eight pages long. If you are part of the community, then you are part of Etta’s life, and you are included in any next great idea that grows from the encounter.

As a Mountie I am proud that our Alma Mater has decided to include Etta in the Hall of Fame. I can attest that she has carried the values nurtured here at the Mount into her life, and I am confident that her future success will include and benefit all of us.

Congratulations Etta!

Etta’s new institution and titles, as of July 1st, are Vice President of Medical Affairs and Dean of the College of Medicine at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, SC.

Prior to receiving the Hall of Fame Award, Etta spoke with Mount’s Robotics Team. They named her an honorary Firebird and presented her with a Chairman’s Award medal. Shown with Etta are, left to right, Hannah Farrell ’11 and Mary Elizabeth Entwistle ’11, vice president and president of the Firebirds.

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1935Nettie May Slick Quinn • is proud to be one of the oldest MSJA graduates who still looks forward to receiving the Alumnae magazine. This year, the class of ’35 celebrated the 75th anniversary of their graduation. Nettie, alone, carries the class banner. Along with daughter, Pat Quinn Keppler ’65, they are likely to be the most senior mother-daughter Mountie team.

1936Mary Barbara O’Neill Philpott • would like to state that she has gone to the Mount for all of her schooling, 16 years. First grade through college. How many have done that?!

1939Camille Gallardo Eisenhart • states that the years keep passing and her family keeps growing. Camille now has 20 great-grandchildren! She extends a “God Bless” for the beautiful work continuing at the Mount.

1941Rita Lawson Moser • would like to share that her granddaughter, Jacquie Moser, is a sophomore and a member of the crew team at Rumson Fair-Haven Regional High School. In October she was competing in the head races in Philly when she called her grandmother to say the Mount was also competing. The call reminded Rita of her days at “the Mount” when basketball, field hockey, and tennis were the varsity sports. To borrow a phrase, “You’ve come a long way, baby.” Tempus fugit.

1946Mary Sims Kent • and her husband, Jack, are living in an assisted living residence in Columbus, Indiana. Their five sons all live within a two-hour drive, but their only daughter, Julie Johnson, who is a Vice President of Liberty Mutual Insurance Company, lives in New Hampshire. Son, Jim, was recently elected, “Minister Provincial” of the Conventual Franciscan Friars, Our Lady of Consolation Province (whose friary is 80 miles south of Columbus in Indiana). It is a great blessing to have a son who is a priest!

1947Marianna Wood Nulty • enjoys spending summers at the shore and having lunch with her classmates. As they have all hit the big 80, some of them are doing just fine and their prayers go out to classmates.

1949Carolyn Taylor Kitchin • will be taking a cruise around the Coast of Norway and visiting Berlin in August. She hopes to stay on the East coast the first two weeks in September. She hopes the Golden Girls luncheon will be during that time.

Mary Chester Peterson • had a surprise call from Marie Sanzare Puglisi ’49, from Fort Lauderdale. It had been 60 years since they last talked, but one can speak to an old classmate after such a long time as if it were only yesterday. What a bunch - special!

1950Raquel Amram-Perez • has just returned from a pilgrimage to Israel, visiting Jerusalem, Bethlehem, and many other sites where Our Lord lived and taught the apostles; it was a very inspiring journey.

1952Lorraine Sukalski McGlynn • recently received the happy news that her granddaughter, Kara Spiller ’02, received a letter from the Fulbright people that she has a scholarship for the coming year to Portugal. Her field is hydrogels and their use in cell transplants. She defended her thesis on the 14th of May and received her Doctorate from Drexel University.

1954Marjorie Todd Shaughnessy • has had another fantastic year running the preschool at St. Joseph’s in Raleigh, NC. Also, two more grandchildren--that makes 14!

1955S. Johanna Gedaka, SSJ, • continues to teach, but at the end of May, 2010, she will move from full to part-time status at Holy Family University. She loves her drawing and art history classes and hates to give them up, so she has chosen to use less chalk rather than leave it on the board ledge. (She doesn’t even use chalk anymore!)

1958Maryann Herzog Whalen • is awaiting granddaughter, Allison, to graduate from Villa Marie. She plays softball for Villa, which is hard to watch when she is playing against the Mount. Allison will be studying Engineering.

1960Kathleen Kolb Lyons • and husband, John, are retired and living in Bowie, Maryland. They just celebrated their 48th wedding anniversary and are blessed with four children and 12 grandchildren. Number 13 will be born in May and the two eldest grandsons are off to college in September. Life has been good to them as they continue to enjoy each day as it comes.

Joan Dull McGuigan • and husband, Frank, are celebrating their 48th wedding anniversary. They have eight children and 14 grandchildren. They retired in 2006 to Womelsdorf, Berks County, and are surrounded by dairy, hog and poultry farms, were they appreciate the lifestyle without the work! Frank continues to drive

Alumnae

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sa tractor trailer part time. Having a large garden, Joan cans and freezes their bounty. She enjoys needlework, reading, travel and volunteering at church. Formerly, she taught GED classes in a Welfare to Work Program and vocational classes for emotionally disturbed teens. Also, she coordinated, a Meals on Wheels program. Life is rich and they feel blessed.

1961Joanne Junker McConnell • and husband, Bill are enjoying their winters in Naples, Florida, and now have four granddaughters.

1963Joan Burger King • and her husband, Joe, are maturing as gracefully as possible. Joe retired from Verizon and Joan is still part time at Conestoga High School in Berwyn, PA. They both cherish the closeness they have with their children and grandchildren.

Mary Johnson FitzPatrick • retired in April, 2010, after 34 years with the Federal Government.

1965Diane McMenamin Bainbridge • and husband, Bud, now have seven grandchildren and one great-grandchild. In September their son, Matthew, was married!

1967Meg Devlin Evangelist • and husband purchased a condo in Naples, Florida. The past winter really got to them!!

Mary Ellen Herzog • is working for the Lehigh Valley Health Network as Senior Director, Grants. Mary and her husband, Tom, recently moved to Macungie, Pennsylvania

1969Karen McCarty Fleming Schuler • says hello to all her friends from the Mount. Her daughter, Laura, is graduating high school and going to Providence College in Rhode Island. Next fall her son, Geoffrey, will be a senior at Marquette University in Milwaukee. Karen and her husband will now be “empty nesters”. All is well and life is good. God bless all who graduated in 1969. One more year and we’re all 60! A must get together!

1970Carol L. St. George, D.O.,• was recently re-elected to serve on the board of trustees of the Pennsylvania Osteopathic Medical Association (POMA), a statewide organization for physicians holding the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) degree. A delegate to the POMA and the American Osteopathic Association, Dr. St. George is past president of the York County Osteopathic Medical Society, and a fellow of the American Academy of Otolaryngology – Head and

Neck Surgery and the Central Pennsylvania Society of Otolaryngologists. She is also a 2009 recipient of the American Biographical Institute’s Woman of the Year in Medicine and Healthcare award. Carol was re-elected a trustee-at-large during POMA’s 102nd Annual Clinical Assembly which was held April 28-May 1, 2010, at the Valley Forge Convention Center in King of Prussia.

Beth Leary Hegedus ‘70 and Nicole Cashman ’90 • at the 12th Annual Carnevale/NIAPAC Gala held at Loew’s Hotel in Philadelphia recently. Both have their own respective PR and communications firms -- Hegedus Connex and Cashman and Associates. The Mount certainly graduates women with vision, and age has nothing to do with it!

1971Kate McCauley Hathaway, • mother of (actress) Anne Hathaway, has a summer job. She’ll star in the Cape May Stage production of I Hate Hamlet!, opening June 17th at the Robert Shackleton Playhouse in Cape May. Cast includes: John Patrick Hayden, Karis Danish, Marlena Lustik, David Birney and Anthony Reimer.

Janice Maguire Malone • has been a Teaching, Learning Facilitator for the English, history and arts and humanities departments in Galloway Township, New Jersey.

1974Liz Quinn Antonucci • sends well wishes to Alumnae, faculty and current students. It has been a long time since she darkened the halls of the Mount. Her husband, Joe, is doing okay because of his drive. Oldest son, Michael (18) is graduating from Thomas Jefferson High School and will attend St. John’s, Minnesota. Son, Matthew (13) is in middle school (8th grade). They are so proud of them.

Liz Gutwein-Guenther • and husband, Kurt, are proud to announce their three sons are now all college graduates, Karl ’10 Drexel, Stephen ’09 Drexel, Kurt ’04 Cornell.

Catherine Burger Vining • reports that she and her husband, Rob, are well and busy. Their oldest son, Christopher, will be a sophomore at St. Joe’s Prep in September. Son, Owen and daughter, Daria, will return to St. Anthony-St. Joseph Elementary in September for eighth and seventh grade, respectively. However, before school starts, they are looking forward to summer vacations in Ocean City and Quebec.

1975Karen Kraft Hoehn • husband, Michael, and three daughters are living in Alpharetta, Georgia. Karen would love to hear from fellow Mounties, e-mail [email protected].

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Dr. Etta Pisano Kylstra• was named Vice President of Medical Affairs and Dean of the College of Medicine at the Medical University of South Carolina. She is one of approximately 130 Med School Deans and only the 10th woman to hold that position in the U.S.

Mary Ellen Boland Radloff • was sorry she missed her reunion. She and her husband, Udo, live in Herrenberg, Germany (south of Stuttgart) and work for the US Army as civilians. She is finally getting to go to Ireland. They are joining a parish trip from their former parish in Mississippi.

1980Lisa Ventresca Forsyth • is living in Newtown, PA, with husband, Dennis and son Christopher. She is involved with her son’s school, St. Andrew’s, serving her second term as Home and School President, and she is also working part-time at her family’s business, Ventresca Travel, with her mom and sisters.

1981Jacqueline Flaherty Toner • announces that her son, John Toner, Jr., is graduating from La Salle College High School, Class of 2010, and will attend Penn State-Main Campus.

1984Photo left to right: Kimberly Heck Cilio, • Kellyann Heck Cilio (MSJA Science Teacher), Maria Eileen Cilio ’12, Jennifer Carroll ’93, Sarah Killian ’12 and Jeanette Griffin ’82) Kim, Kellyann, Jennifer and Jeanette went

to 10ARTS by Eric Ripert for dinner and met their own Top Chef, Jennifer Carroll ’93. Stopping by on their way to a Roman Mixer were Maria Eileen Cilio ’12 and Sarah Killian ’12.

1986Stephanie Birchett Wroten • from the Jefferson School of Pharmacy, has been chosen as one of four individuals for the Albert Schweitzer Fellowship. Stephanie aims to address the cycle of poverty and homelessness by developing The H.E.A.L.T.H. (Hygiene, Exercise, Academics, Literacy, and Teaching, to Humankind) Initiative in conjunction with the Honickman Center. Community Site: Project H.O.M.E. Community Partnership School. Upon completion of her initial

year, she will become a Schweitzer Fellows for Life – and join a vibrant network of over 2,000 individuals who are skilled in, and committed to, addressing the health needs of underserved people throughout her career as a professional.

Marci Kuttler Bossow Schankweiler• was named a finalist in the People Magazine All Stars Among Us competition. Voting took place as we were going to press; it started on May 30th and ended June 20th. Out of three finalists in the Philadelphia area, Marci was the top vote getter, and represented the Philadelphia Phillies as the “All Star Among Us” at the 2010 All-Star Game in Anaheim, California. The overall top vote getter in the contest will get a feature in People Magazine.

1988Jean Morrissey Stamatis • and her husband, Jay, recently welcomed their son, Luke, in April. Luke joins his two-year-old brother, Jack. Jean continues to work part-time as a family marketing director and lives in Thousand Oaks, California.

1989Dr. Dawn Cute-Allen • is married to Derek Allen, and they have two wonderful children, Ryan (6) and Madison (4). Dr. Cute has been in private practice in Roxborough since 1997 as a chiropractor and may be contacted at 215-508-3291.

Susanne Hummel DeWitt• lives in Warminster, PA, with her husband, Bryan, and their two children, Julia (10) and Alexander (8). She enjoys volunteering at the children’s school and running a successful graphic design and marketing communications business.

1991Suzanne Smith Brandley • and husband, Jay, welcomed their first son to the world on March 18th,. Nathaniel Smith Brandley weighed 7 lbs, 11oz.

Maureen “Mimi” Adolph Furletti • has welcomed Claire Maureen into her family, born August 26, 2009. Big sister, Nora (5), and big brother, Jack (3), are thrilled!

Heather McGlinn Hansma ’91 • and her husband, Scott, welcomed a daughter, Emma McGlinn, on March 26, 2010. Emma’s older sister, Violet (2-1/2), is overjoyed to be a big sister; Heather and her family still reside in San Francisco.

1993Maureen Dougherty Barnes• announces the birth of her son, Finnegan James, on December 22, 2008. Maureen is currently working as a registered nurse anesthetist at St. Mary Medical Center.

1994Kristin O’Brien Brown • is proud to announce the arrival of her second son, Cameron Michael. He was born on April 19, 2009, 8lbs, 3-1/2 oz., 20 inches. Kristin, her husband, Craig, big brother, Connor and Cameron reside in Glenside, PA.

1995Jean Bond Brown• is an attorney at the firm of Timoney Knox in Fort Washington, working in trust and estate planning and administration, elder law and family law. She

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was recently named a “Rising Star” by the Super Lawyers organization, as found in the June issue of Philadelphia Magazine. She recently started a three-year term on the Development Advisory Board of the Sisters of Saint Joseph. Jean and husband, Matthew, welcomed their third daughter, Veronica Evelyn, on February 7, 2010. She joins Kate (4-1/2) and Avery (2). The Browns reside in Upper Dublin.

Kathleen Kohler Buckley • and husband, Jay, welcomed a daughter, Elizabeth Carolyn on August 10, 2009.

Erin O’Brien• started working as an Intensive Case Manager at Hall Mercer Community Mental Health Center. She also is engaged to Jose Garcia, as of Christmas 2009, and is planning a 2011 wedding.

Denise Krystopa Richards • announces the birth of her son, Nathan Edward Richards, on December 1, 2009. Julie Krystopa ’99 is the proud aunt and godmother.

1996Samantha Oren Weber • shares that the summer of 2009 was busy for this group of Mounties! Samantha and her husband, Michael, welcomed daughter, Zoey Josephine, born on June 17, 2009. Shannon Rowley Lavelle and

her husband, Sean, and big brother, Liam, welcomed Finn Patrick, born on July 10, 2009. Melissa Shannon Pitchford and husband, Jeff, welcomed daughter, Keira Rose, on August 24, 2009. (A recent photo of moms and

babies after yoga class (from left: Melissa and Keira, Shannon and Finn, and Samantha and Zoey.)

1997Joan King Cavallaro • and husband, Mike, welcome their daughter, Caitlin Elizabeth, born January 8, 2010.

1998Kerri Bielski • and Joseph Morris were married on July 18,

2009 in a ceremony at Epiphany of Our Lord Church with a reception at Presidential Caterers. In attendance were maid of honor, Kristin Bielski ’98 and bridesmaids Colleen Strawhacker ’01, Emily DePaul ’01, and Stephanie Hershey Caprioli ’01. Other Mounties in attendance were, Mary Kate Weber ’98, Lauren Darby ’98 and Ellen Eklof ’98. The couple honeymooned in Maui, Hawaii.

2000Erin McGrath • announces her marriage to Mark Wachlin on October 8, 2010. Mark is a litigation attorney at Dilworth Paxson. Kayln Cavanaugh ’00 will be the maid of honor.

2002Anna Pendley • was married to Captain Matthew Cardelino on September 6, 2009, at Old St. Mary’s in Old City, followed by a reception at the Ballroom at 6th and Market, overlooking the Liberty Bell. She was attended by three Mounties, her sister, Elizabeth Pendley ’04, Kaitlin Cattie ’02 and Katherine Hinkel ’02. Anna and Matt reside in Center City.

2003Jenna Stabinski • graduated from Chestnut Hill College with a MS in Clinical & Counseling Psychology, specializing in Child & Adolescent Therapy in August 2009. She is currently working as a family therapist for Central Montgomery MHMR.

2005Christina Ferrier • has gone back to school and is currently doing a post-back to apply to Medical School, to enter a Physicians Assistant Program.

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Jean Morrissey Stamatis ’88, • a son, LukeSuzanne Smith Brandley ’91• , a son, NathanielMaureen Adolph Furletti ’91, • a daughter, Claire MaureenHeather McGlinn Hansma ’91• , a daughter, Emma Maureen Dougherty Barnes ’93• , a son, Finnegan JamesJennifer Dzara Roberts ’93• , a daughter, Emma NoelleKristin O’Brien Brown ’94• , a son, Cameron MichaelJean Bond Brown ’95• , a daughter, Veronica EvelynKathleen Kohler Buckley ’95• , a daughter, Elizabeth CarolynMeagan McMahon Powers ’95, • a son, John ThomasDenise Krystopa Richards ’95• , a son, Nathan EdwardShannon Rowley Lavelle ’96• , a son, Finn PatrickMichele Moran McDevitt ’96• , a son, Jackson PatrickMelissa Shannon Pitchford ’96• , a daughter, Keira RoseSamantha Oren Weber ’96• , a daughter, Zoey JosephineJoan King Cavallaro ’97, • a daughter, Caitlin ElizabethRebecca McMurtie Mann’98• , a daughter, Vera-Mae Shaw

2008Catherine Begley • has a congressional internship this summer, on Capital Hill in Washington, D.C. with Congressman, Robert Brady.

2009Kara Sapp • has made the Dean’s List for the 2009 fall semester, from the College of Science and Technology at Temple University.

Laura Thistle • received the “Rookie of the Year” award from Georgetown’s Field Hockey Team. She was also nominated for “Most Resilient Female Athlete” for the school wide Hoya-Saxa Awards.

Parents CornerMaureen Elizabeth Hill Nigro ’88• , daughter of Joseph Hill, and deceased wife, Elizabeth (Lillian). Mr. Hill, shares that his daughter and mother of two children, has been selected as a Top 40 Under 40 nominee by The Irish Echo. Maureen, a former Miss Mayo of 1992, was highlighted in a special section of the February 17th issue of The Eco. She is a Human Resource professional with 16 years experience in compensation, training, recruiting and HR business partner responsibilities. Currently, Maureen is a Compensation Consultant with State Street Bank in Boston and lives in Arlington, MA, a northern Boston suburb, with her husband, David and her children.

In Memoriam

New Arrivals

Our sympathy and prayers are extended to the following alumnae:

Mary Geoghegan ’41• , on the death of her sister-in-law, Margaret T. Geoghegan

Mary Jane Clary Hoffman ’41• , on the death of her son, Roy A. Hoffman

Joan Hoffman Weckesser ’48• , on the death of her husband, James Weckesser

Marie Sanzare Puglisi ’49, • on the death of her husband, Dr. Vincent Puglisi

Madeleine Mansell Keehn ’50• , on the death of her brother-in-law, Herbert A. Keehn

Jeanne Shelton Crouch ’56, • on the death of her brother, Richard M. Shelton

Mary Anne Dutt Justice ’56, • on the death of her husband, William (Bill) Justice

Kathleen Kugler ’58• and Mary Kugler Smith ’62, on the death of their brother, Jim Kugler

Ellen Higley O’Neill ’61, Molly O’Neill ’85, Megan •O’Neill ’88 and Susan Higley Bray ’59, on the death of their husband, father and brother-in-law respectively, Kevin Michael O’Neill

Stephanie Comerford Kramer ’65, Anne Comerford •Skoogfors ’71, Cynthia Strolle ’71, Mary Strolle Bender ’72 and Emily Bender ’06, on the death of their mother, aunt and great aunt respectively, Eugenia Cooper Comerford ’37

We extend our sympathy and prayers

to the families of the

following Alumnae:

Eleanor Newlin Shankland ’33•Eugenia Cooper Comerford ’37•Regina McCathy Dwyer ’40•Helen Lyons Ray ’44•Mary Bernice Menz Wheeler ’46•Rosemary Reilly Kund ’48•Kathryn Marra Simonson ’50•Mary Brady Sinclair ’50•Margaret Morgenthaler Allen ’51•Helen E. Hall ’56•Deborah Mellon Gilligan ’66•Adele Frunzi-Teachey’69•Dr. Kathleen Kolsun-Riggs ’89•

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Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn!Visit www.msjaalum.org and

scroll down for the links.40

S. Maryellen Whitaker, SSJ ’65• , Laura Whitaker ’95 and Karen Whitaker ’99, on the death of their father, and grandfather respectively, Eugene J. Whitaker Sr.

Margaret Gallagher ’66, Christie Purdy Burns ’88• and Cynthia Gallagher-Dowling ’91, on the death of their mother and grandmother respectively, Myra Malley Gallagher

Maureen Dixon Cass ’68, • on the death of her father, Robert H. Dixon

Ann Herd-Klein ’71• , on the death of her father, Joseph A. Herd

Jane Dunne Mack ’71, Anne Dunne Kelly ’72• and Colleen Miltenberg ’00, on the death of their husband, brother-in-law and uncle respectively, Edward T. Mack

Diana Frunzi ’73• , on the death of her sister, Adele Frunzi-Teachey ’69Elizabeth Murphy Ollwerther ’75 • and Mary Louise Murphty Tyler ’81, on the death of their mother, Marian Crossin Murphy

Lisa Bianchini Bergman ’76• , on the death of her mother-in-law, Mary Friel Bergman

MaryAlice Harington Cleary ’76, Susan Harrington •Hicklin ’80, Veronica Cleary O’Hara ’99 and Rosemary Cleary ’10, on the death of their mother and grandmother respectively, Alice McIntyre Harrington

Anne Koons Iggi ’76,• on the death of her father, Eugene F. Koons Sr.

Marianne Mirsch Sypniewski ’76 and Maureen Mirsch •Leonard ’78, on the death of their uncle, John Mirsch, Jr.

Lynne Hoffner Kirkpatrick ’77, • on the death of her brother, Laurence Hoffner Jr.

Suzanne Lawlor O’Reilly ’77, Maryellen Lawlor Vogt •’81, Elizabeth Lawlor ’04 and Suzanne Lawlor ’10, on the death of their mother and grandmother respectively, Sabina Freeborn “Bunny” Lawlor

Clare Doney Brown ’78, Susan Doney Leonard ’80• and Ellen Doney Funchion ’82, on the death of their mother, Helen Leibrandt Doney

Kimberly Hillanbrand Miller ’78• , on the death of her grandmother, Mary Bonoma

Patricia Geppert Haber ’79• and Victoria Haber ’13, on the death of their grandmother and great grandmother respectively, Evelyn Beck Thomas

Joan Myers Louthe ’79• , on the death of her husband, William P. Louthe

Rosemary Kund Bogan ’80• , on the death of her mother, Rosemary Reilly “Luvie” Kund ’48Diana Bottinger Kustra ’80• , on the death of her mother-in-law, Marie Gegeckas Kustra

MaryRose Hasson Lynch ’80• and Grace Lynch ’13, on the death of their father-in-law and grandfather respectively, Charles T. Dolan

Anina Armento Pfeiffer ’80• and Felisa Armento Dibble ’82, on the death of their father, Dr. Donald Francis Armento

Carol Swanson Gannon ’82, Linda Swanson Newbold •’83, Cathleen McLees Barone ’84, Joanne Swanson

McLaughlin ’85, Christine McLees ’87 and Olivia Gannon ’13, on the death of their cousin, Helen E. Hall ’56Aileen Eidenshink Napierkowski ’82• , on the death of her mother-in-law, Sarah “Nellie” Brown Napierkowski

Kathleen Wilkin Thorson ’84, • on the death of her father, Robert J. Wilkin Jr. Jill Marshall Curry ’85• and John Curry (MSJA faculty), on the death of their father-in-law and father respectively, John Curry Sr.

Lisa Zinni ’86• and Lianne Zinni Quinn ’88, on the death of her grandmother, Phyllis DePaul Fiandra

Amy Getz Zurlo ’88, • on the death of her father, Robert Warfield Getz

Megan Melinson McDonough ’89, • on the death of her father-in-law, Michael T. McDonough

Jennifer DeBow ’90• and Lisa DeBow ’93, on the death of their grandmother, Claire Biermann McManus

Gretchen Friedberger ’91• , on the death of her mother, Deborah Mellon Gilligan ’66Maureen Dougherty Barnes ’93, • on the death of her mother, Catherine Dougherty and the death of her grandmother, Margaret Guba

Valerie Hughes ’00• , on the death of her grandmother, Valerie Leary Mikula

Kerriann Kada ’01 • and Cassidy Peikin ’13, on the death of their grandfather, Harry C. Sears

Christina Sadowski ’04, Victoria Sadowski ’12• and Mrs. Joyce Sadowski (MSJA Staff), on the death of their grandmother and mother-in-law respectively, Mrs. Maria Sadowski

Orla Treacy ’04• , on the death of her mother, Rose Rafferty Treacy

Elizabeth Camp ’06• , on the death of her grandmother, Elizabeth Britt Hughes

Kerry Roman ’06, Corin Roman ’09, Lisa Roman ’13• and Kent Roman (Board Member), on the death of their grandmother and mother respectively, Mary Isobel Boyes Roman

Bonnie Small ’07• and Lilly Small ’11, on the death of their grandmother, Sara “Sally” Hughes Small

Kai Lawrence ’10, • on the death of her grandmother, Mary Brady Lawrence

Casey Corcoran ’11• and Brigid Corcoran ’13 on the death of her grandmother, Therese Mullin Kniele

Allison Potestio ’11• , on the death of her grandmother, Patricia S. Myrtetus

Elise Biaesch ’12• and Justine Belinsky ’13, on the death of their grandmother, Elizabeth “Betty” Gorman Wagner

Jessica Riloff ’12• , on the death of her grandmother, Loretta Purcell Rieser

Mr. James Kashner, on the death of his wife, former staff •member (front office), Mary C. Kashner

S. Gerry Sadowy, SSJ, (MSJA faculty), on the death of her •sister, Karen Carter 41

I was not fortunate enough to know my maternal grandmother, who died long before I was born. My brothers and I, however, were blessed by the strong and influential

presence of her older sister, Eugenia Cooper Comerford (or as we called her, Gene) in our lives.

Anyone who knew Gene, which includes about the entire Mount community for the past few decades, knew that she was educated and elegant, but few have been privileged enough to know much more beyond this exterior. Until recently, I did not even know about some of her more outstanding achievements, such as her academic and athletic prowess. Gene excelled at both “the Academy” (the Mount) and Chestnut Hill College at a time when it was the exception, rather than the norm, for women to attend college and her younger sister, my grandmother, followed right behind her. For someone who dabbled in feminism pretty early in life, I carried this little tidbit around with me with pride.

Recently, there has been much said and written about Gene’s influence on the Mount community. These stories caused me to reflect more on the woman whom I have known as a surrogate grandmother and whom my high school classmates and contemporaries probably knew simply as the strictest, yet most respected, substitute teacher. When I was younger, Gene did not fascinate me because of the wealth of academic knowledge that she carried with her—although I loved being able to brag about good grades to her, knowing she would be pleased. As a little girl, I didn’t see Gene as a Mount legacy but as my mom’s aunt who made the best fudge (seriously), always wore a gigantic “safety pin” on her many plaid kilts, and around whom I should always be on my best behavior…or else. I will never forget the look on her face when I was ten or eleven and came running into the kitchen where she was talking with my mother—I probably banged into a chair or knocked something over on the way—and announced my arrival by loudly burping. As soon as I did it, I saw the horror on Gene’s face and instantly regretted what had been a spontaneous, innocent and, I can admit, immature gesture. Shocked (and probably appalled), Gene told me very distinctly that “Mount ladies do not do that.” Now, Gene never elaborated beyond those six words, but the specificity of her statement always made me wonder if perhaps Gwynedd girls do.

In Memoriam : EugeniaCooperComerford ’37

By Emily Bender ‘06

Gene epitomized the oft-quoted Bible passage “For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required” (Luke 12:48). Mount ladies (always ladies, never girls) were held to a higher standard in her eyes. So for anyone who ever got in trouble for being out of uniform, arriving late, or misbehaving, get over it. Gene’s intense discipline and high standards were a compliment. My biggest fear upon entering the Mount for the first time as a student in September of 2002 is that I would be held to higher standards than the rest of the students by my mother and great-aunt, both of whom I saw in the hallways everyday—my mother as the school’s Latin teacher, Mimi Bender, and Gene as a retired former employee who substituted on an almost daily basis until last spring. I tried to go unnoticed in the hallway, which wasn’t hard considering how easy it was to camouflage oneself amidst the swarms of khaki or dark plaid in between classes. This task was a little trickier, however, in a classroom of twenty-five girls and a seating chart. Gene substituted for me occasionally and never hesitated, from the first time to the last, to tell me to get rid of my gum. It took me about a year to get adjusted to calling her “Gene” in front of girls too intimidated to do much beyond their assigned work. By senior year, I was completely comfortable to going to school with my mom and great-aunt. I always enjoyed calling out “Hi Gene!” when she passed me in the hallway and seeing her look around wildly for a moment as she tried to discern which disrespectful student had not referred to her as “Mrs. Comerford.”

From my very first day as a student to my very last, I was reminded of the strong connection my family has to the Mount. On September 3, 2003 I arrived at the Mount to meet my classmates, get my books and make an appearance at the “Golden Girls” luncheon during which a picture was snapped of Gene, my mother, and me, three generations of Mounties. Four years later, on June 3, 2006, a similar picture was taken inside IHM, I in my Grecian gown, my mother in academic cap and gown, and Gene wearing the Fournier medal around her neck. This picture later appeared on the cover of the Mount Magazine, making me believe that despite my excellent high school education and admittance into the University of Richmond, I was truly destined to be a cover girl. Once I graduated, I no longer had to worry about Gene policing my academic behavior, but I still had to be on guard for her inquiries into my college classes. It only took one time when I was unable to produce 42

To coincide with the updated appearance of our campus here at the Mount, we are excited to announce the new name and new look to our Annual Fund!

The Mount Fund, the annual appeal for gifts which directly supports the operating budget of the school, has a new look that complements our logo. We are most grateful to Board member, Jim Paul, and his talented staff at T. J. Paul, Inc. who lent their talents to create this exciting new design. The Mount Fund:

Strives to narrow the gap between tuition revenue and • actual cost per student;

Helps further the mission of the Mount by enhancing • academic programs and supporting talented educators;

Ensures a state-of-the-art technology program;•

Provides for the operation and maintenance of our • facilities

Gifts Made In Memory of or In Honor ofGiving a gift In Memory of or In Honor of creates a unique opportunity to recognize family and friends. To learn more about these types of gifts, contact the Development Office at 215-233-1859.

Reunion/Class GiftsMany graduates choose to commemorate their reunion year with a gift in support of today’s students. You can designate a gift in honor of your reunion and help your class gain special recognition at the annual Alumnae Weekend held in the Spring.

Purple & Gold ClubMembers of the Purple & Gold Club make a significant commitment to the mission of Mount Saint Joseph Academy by giving an annual gift of $1,000 or more. The members of this distinguished group help to shape and secure the fiscal future of the Academy via The Mount Fund. For more information about The Mount Fund, please contact the Development Office at 215-233-1859.

Introducing...

any of the titles or authors I read for an English class she was asking about (hey, college is hard) to teach me to always brush up on the semesters’ syllabi before seeing her. My graduation from the University of Richmond this past spring was the first time Gene missed an important milestone in either my or one of my brothers’ lives. Although her failing health and the distance would have prevented her from attending the actual event, being unable to answer all her questions about my final semester and Commencement has been unsettling for me. I didn’t burp, trip, or chew gum during the entire ceremony and I am sure Gene, who passed away one day before the event, appreciated seeing what a respectable lady I have become.

As trite as it is to say in the wake of someone’s passing (and I really hate sounding trite) Gene’s presence in my life made me a better person. I am not nearly the refined, gracious lady that she was during her life, and in her death and there is no doubt in my mind that I will ever come close. I do, however, always remember to sit like a lady and use proper grammar when speaking. I have yet to chew gum during a job interview and have adopted a less shrill tone when yelling at my brothers (they are unavailable for comment.) I have already felt Gene’s absence in my life. This year, when my mom made the Cooper family strawberry shortcakes over Memorial Day Weekend, no one was battling with me to lick the whipped cream bowl clean.

In Memoriam Continued

Save the Date

43

Monday, September 27, 2010

Blue Bell Country Club

18 th Annual

Golf Classic

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Date!

120 West Wissahickon AvenueFlourtown, PA 19031-1899RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

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msja summer 2010 mount magazine

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