HEART Magazine - Spring 2017 by Sacred Heart Academy

SACRED HEART ACADEMY Ä± SPRING 2017 FALL 2016

SHAdes of SHA

WELCOMES CHINESE DANCERS DURING DIVERSITY WEEK

EVER HIGHER DERIVED FROM THE LATIN WORD FOR ENDURING EXCELLENCE, EVER HIGHER SIGNIFIES THE PURSUIT OF PERFECTION. FAITHFUL TO THE VISION OF FOUNDING PRINCIPAL SR. ANTONINE SIGNORELLI, ASCJ, THE ACADEMY HAS NEVER BEEN CONTENT TO MERELY PRODUCE ACADEMICALLY GIFTED STUDENTS. IT ALSO SEEKS TO HELP FORM WOMEN OF COMPASSION AND INTEGRITY, WOMEN WHO EXCEL IN A VARIETY OF DISCIPLINES AND AREAS OF LIFE. IN THIS ISSUE OF HEART, WE INVITE YOU TO LOOK AT THE DIVERSE WAYS IN WHICH SACRED HEART PROMOTES THE CALL TO REACH EVER HIGHER. WHETHER THROUGH DIVERSE CLUB OFFERINGS, COMMITMENT TO CONSERVATION, OR THE VALUES INSTILLED IN AN OUTSTANDING ALUMNAE COMMUNITY, REACHING EVER HIGHER STILL RINGS TRUE AFTER 70 YEARS.

Front Cover Peter Hvizdak Photography, Peter Hvizdak Photographer Back Cover Impressions Studio

— IN THIS ISSUE —

GIVING LIVING WATER — CONSERVATION @ SACRED HEART

ALUMNAE — LIVING EXCELSIOR

Alumnae embody the call to strive for greater

excellence in their lives.

The school community addresses conservation from a theological and ecological perspective.

VOLUNTEERS BREATHE LIFE INTO SACRED HEART

CLUBS OFFER SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

Our volunteers play a pivotal role in achieving the mission of the school, and more are

FROM THE PRESIDENT CLASS OF 2017 GRADUATES! EXCELSIOR LIVES STUDENT SPOTLIGHTS

—

offering of clubs promotes student growth in all areas.

always needed.

3 21 25 26

Sacred Heart’s diverse

27 34 36 39

AROUND THE ACADEMY MISSION ADVANCEMENT STRONG BONDS IN MEMORIAM

—

FALL 2016

Spring 2017

PRESIDENT Sr. Sheila O’Neill, ASCJ, Ph.D., ’71 PRINCIPAL Sr. Kathleen Mary Coonan, ASCJ, ’76 EDITOR Beth Griffin DESIGN EP Graphic Design ı Elizabeth Parker MAJOR PHOTOGRAPHY Cronin Photography ı Cheryl Cronin ’84 FEATURE WRITERS Eric Bradley Sarah Bradley CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Director of Mission Advancement Debbie Camner Advancement Associate Alora Caraglio Coppola ’08 Advancement Associate Holly Fink Director of Public Relations Beth Griffin Director of Alumnae Relations Sr. Mariette Moan, ASCJ, ’77 Faculty – English Department Nicole Cormier Beaudwin ’99 PHOTOGRAPHY John Bihm Photography Kim Cramer Curbow ’81 Sr. Maureen Flynn, ASCJ, ’81 Beth Griffin A. Hanney Peter Hvizdak Photography Impressions Studio Scott Suchman for the Washington National Opera Sr. Lauren Zak, ASCJ

Sacred Heart Academy is a ministry of the Apostles of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. HEART magazine is published by Sacred Heart Academy for alumnae, parents, past parents, and friends of Sacred Heart Academy. To update your address visit www.sacredhearthamden.org and click the login link or send address changes to the Office of Alumnae Relations, Sacred Heart Academy, 265 Benham Street, Hamden, CT 06514 or alumnae@ sacredhearthamden.org. Sacred Heart Academy admits students of any race, creed, national or ethnic origin, and handicapped status to all the rights, privileges and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate in these areas in the administration of its educational policies, scholarship and loan programs, athletic or other school-administered programs. 2

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all you have done to support us along this journey. Your financial support, your gifts of time and talent, and your positive words sharing the good news of Sacred Heart Academy all contribute to who we are today. Sr. Sheila O’Neill, ASCJ, Ph.D., ’71

FROM THE PRESIDENT Dear Friends, Sr. Antonine was a woman ahead of her time. As she envisioned Sacred Heart Academy, she had the foresight to know what an important role women were beginning to play in the culture of the 1940s. The motto she chose, Excelsior, perfectly exemplified her dream for young women…Ever Higher, ever upward. Mediocrity was not an option for her Academy ladies, whether in the classroom, on the court, on stage, or in the cafe. She consistently reminded the students that they could do whatever they put their minds to, while always being grounded in their faith and their love of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. I am so grateful that throughout the history of the Academy, the passion for Ever Higher has never wavered and continues to permeate the lives of all Sacred Heart students. In this issue of HEART, I hope you enjoy reading about the myriad examples of Ever Higher. Because of our alumnae and the unique ways they live as Excelsior Women and our volunteers who so generously serve the needs of the school, there is never a day that goes by when I am not cognizant of our mission to prepare our young ladies to be the best that they can be in order to make the world a better place. What better way to learn about oneself than through participation in clubs, athletics, and service? Whether in Campus Ministry, Key Club, SHAdes, ice hockey, basketball, cross country, or any other activity, Sacred Heart Academy provides a plethora of experiences for our diverse group of students. Coupled with an excellent academic program, our infrastructure offers the opportunity to become women who can change the world. But life at the Academy does not stop at our “walls.” Sr. Kathleen Mary and I believe it is important for our students to be aware of the world beyond our campus, especially being responsible caretakers of the goods of the Earth. Following the encyclical of Pope Francis, Laudato Si, the school-wide water project did just that. It helped our students to better understand the role we each play in protecting those gifts that have been generously given to us, so that they will be available in the same way to future generations. Sacred Heart Academy is an amazing community filled with outstanding teachers who mentor their students every day to be the very best they can be, wonderful parents who entrust their daughters to our care, and special friends who are an integral part of our success. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all you have done to support us along this journey. Your financial support, your gifts of time and talent, and your positive words sharing the good news of Sacred Heart Academy all contribute to who we are today. Our success is proportional to your investment. May the Sacred Heart of Jesus bless you with His never-ending love. Gratefully yours,

Sr. Sheila O’Neill, ASCJ, Ph.D., ’71 President

ı EVER HIGHER ı

Alumnae — Living Excelsior Our alumnae are as different as they are similar. After graduation, they venture into varied fields of study and onto divergent career paths, but they do so with a common set of values and lessons learned from their days at the Academy. When alumnae set their sights on a goal, nothing can stop them from pursuing it. The three women profiled here exemplify — through dedication, hard work, and perseverance — what it means to constantly reach Ever Higher in their personal and professional lives.

Allegra DeVita ’07 Mezzo Soprano at Washington National Opera’s Young Artist Program

llegra DeVita ’07 caught the performing bug early, when a talent show audition at age eight revealed a gift for singing; since then, she has become a member of a prestigious Young Artist Program (YAP) with the Washington National Opera and is looking ahead to a career of singing opera as a mezzo soprano. “After my two years in the YAP, I will officially be a freelance artist, which is both terrifying and exhilarating,” says Allegra. “I will never again have a steady paycheck, so right now I’m ensuring that I have a solid vocal technique, become proficient in Italian, German, and French, and work hard to build enduring relationships with casting agents, directors, and conductors.” Allegra’s current success comes as a result of many years of hard work, much of which happened while she was in middle and high school. She admits that academics did not always come easily to her, but she found such joy in performing that she often received better grades — and was more focused on her schoolwork — when she was involved in a show. “The house rule was high grades or no performing,” she remembers. “For me, time spent in the theatre was far better than any sport or television show, and knowing that I had a full rehearsal schedule with little free time meant I couldn’t procrastinate when it came to my schoolwork.” Despite her love of performing, there was a time when Allegra wasn’t sure she wanted to pursue it as a career. She developed a passion for science during her time at Sacred Heart and,

after graduation, attended Sacred Heart University to obtain her bachelor’s degree in biologyneuroscience. However, during her junior year of college, Allegra realized that her love of opera wasn’t just a hobby, but something she wanted to adapt into a lifelong career. She began applying to music conservatories, knowing that her more traditional education had set her back several years and she would have to catch up to her peers, many of whom had entered undergraduate conservatories in lieu of four-year colleges. But Allegra was prepared to do the hard work necessary to reach her goals. What she wasn’t prepared for was a series of rejections that were beyond disappointing. “I started auditioning for Young Artist Programs and made it into the finals of some of the best opera houses in the country, only to be rejected at the very end,” she recalls. “I also made it all the way to the grand finals of the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions, which is like the American Idol of the opera world. But I didn’t win that final prize, either.” Having one of her longtime dreams crushed was heartbreaking and Allegra considered abandoning her attempt at an opera career. What she didn’t realize was that she had been seen — and heard — by a number of important people in the business, many of whom reached out to her after the performance. Ultimately, she ended up being placed in the Young Artist Program with the Washington National Opera. “What felt like one of the worst moments of my career turned out to be one of the most priceless,” Allegra says.

I am constantly striving to make my art reach Ever Higher, ensuring that the work I am presenting in front of an audience is the very best that I can accomplish at that moment in time. Allegra DeVita, ’07

It’s that kind of dedication and perseverance, combined with the ability to rise above challenges, that will no doubt send Allegra soaring into a prestigious future career in the opera world. She has a longtime goal to become an international opera singer and experience the European opera world, exploring new cultures, people, and career opportunities. To get there, Allegra knows she will have to keep pushing herself and honing her talent. “My work demands that I constantly make myself better,” she says. “Every time I go on stage, I give a unique performance that is colored by years of hard work, practice, and experience. I am constantly striving to make my art reach Ever Higher, ensuring that the work I am presenting in front of an audience is the very best that I can accomplish at that moment in time. The old adage is true — you are only as good as your last performance.”

Did You Know...

When Allegra performed the role of Cherubino in Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro with the Washington National Opera, Chrystina Cappello ’06, Mary Beth DiGenova ‘06, and Alden Pelker ’06 enjoyed a grand night at the opera at The Kennedy Center in DC.

Allegra DeVita ’07 performing the role of First Lady in The Dictator’s Wife as part of the Washington National Opera’s Domingo-Cafritz Young Artist Program. 5

Sallie Vece DeMarsilis ’82 Chief Financial Officer of Movado Group

s the youngest of six children growing up in a household where her father and all of her siblings worked for the family business, Sallie Vece DeMarsilis ’82 knew that business was in her blood. But it wasn’t until she took an elective accounting class during her senior year at Sacred Heart that she was able to see how the business world and her love of numbers could be combined. “Through my father’s business, I observed that a company is most successful when there is a high degree of collaboration. Each person plays a unique role, whether it be in management, sales, customer service, or human resources. The question for me,” Sallie recalls, “was understanding how I would best use my talents and my love of working with numbers to fit into the business world.” Professionally, Sallie made numerous leaps in her career, working for companies like Deloitte, Ann Taylor Stores, and The Warnaco Group, Inc. She advanced in the public accounting field early on, but also developed a strong leadership skill set, managing large groups of people and leading multiple projects at a time. Eventually she began accepting senior management positions, which led her to her current role as chief financial officer of Movado Group, Inc., a premier watch manufacturing company. Sallie is quick to point to the value of hard work in her many achievements, as well as an ability to simply follow the ever-changing directions that life often takes. “Originally, my aspirations were to become a partner at a large global accounting firm, but as can be the case in life, my career journey had some unexpected twists and turns,” she says. “I have found that if you work hard and love what you do, the opportunities unfold. But, I also feel that I have been in the right place at the right time for much of my good fortune — some call that luck and some say it is because when you work hard you are rewarded. Regardless, I feel blessed.” Though she clearly appreciates where her career journey has taken her, Sallie remembers a time when that journey led to professional crisis. In 2008, Movado Group, Inc. was impacted by the financial crisis — they were selling luxury goods to customers with declining discretionary income. The economic climate in 2008 was problematic for companies like Movado, which struggled through the crisis but ultimately came through it leaner and stronger. But Sallie learned an important lesson. “Don’t wait for a crisis to evaluate your choices, make improvements, or reinvent yourself — you get this chance each and every day,” she remarks. Another factor in Sallie’s success in the face of challenging circumstances is the way that she has surrounded herself with a good support system. Believing that the challenges she has faced along the way have only strengthened her character and helped her grow as a person, Sallie points to the people who have stood alongside her throughout all of those “twists and turns” life has sent her way. “Throughout my life, my parents, siblings, friends, husband, and now even my children, have always supported me,” Sallie says. “No one ever told me my dreams were too big or my ambitions too high. These are the people who encouraged me and helped me figure out how to reach my goals.” The Academy also played a supportive role in Sallie’s life, serving as a true safety net for exploration during her formative high school years. It gave her a strong foundation and a wellrounded education, with teachers inspiring Sallie to try new courses and take on leadership roles. Though she was outside her comfort zone in these new endeavors, the encouraging environment at Sacred Heart helped Sallie feel comfortable taking risks. She has since returned to the Academy

to share her talents, serving on the finance committee of the Advisory Council. Taking risks seems to have paid off for Sallie both personally and professionally. She is unafraid of the

To me, Ever Higher is looking at each new day as an opportunity to grow — spiritually, intellectually, culturally, and physically. Sallie Vece DeMarsilis, ’82

future, able to embrace the present, and find excitement in the chance to grow on a dayto-day basis. She admits that sometimes she struggles with that daily growth, recognizing that certain things — like being an active

listener — are more challenging for her than others. But reflecting on how she can improve her life each day is a constant goal. “To me, Ever Higher is looking at each new day as an

opportunity to grow — spiritually, intellectually, culturally, and physically,” says Sallie. “I don’t dwell on the past or get caught up in minutiae. Each day is different and I am always interested in seeing what tomorrow brings.”

Sr. Ritamary Schulz, ASCJ, ’59 Provincial Superior, United States Province, Apostles of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

f all the words used to describe Sr. Ritamary, “visionary” is the one that first comes to mind. Having served two terms as principal of Sacred Heart, Sister led the Academy through nearly three decades of growth and development, and is credited with ushering in a number of capital and program improvements that continue to have a positive effect on the school, including the foundation of the Endowment Fund and the one-to-one laptop program. “Sacred Heart is a place of love, energy, enthusiasm, and caring,” says Sr. Ritamary. “It exudes excellence in its spiritual values and expressions of Christ’s love. My experience with students, faculty, parents, and alumnae was profoundly humbling and I loved every moment of my time at Sacred Heart.” In 2007, Sr. Ritamary finished her second term in leadership at the Academy and relocated to West Virginia to participate in a spiritual direction training program. The West Virginia Institute for Spirituality (WVIS) is a retreat center offering people an opportunity to deepen their relationship with God by practicing mindfulness and prayer alongside trained spiritual directors. Wanting to grow in her own spirituality and also learn how to help others find God in a deeper way, Sr. Ritamary immersed herself at WVIS. “The program was a two-year intensive experience in study and practice, followed by continuous reading and reflection during the eight years I was there,” she says. “Providing these retreats to adults has been a deeply

Sacred Heart is a place of love, energy, enthusiasm, and caring. It exudes excellence in its spiritual values and expressions of Christ’s love. Sr. Ritamary Schulz, ASCJ, ’59

personal journey, sharing God’s love and, particularly, the love of the heart of Christ.” Her role as a spiritual director, supervisor, and faculty member at WVIS gave Sr. Ritamary a chance to do what she loves best — engage with others through prayer. The center provides a variety of programs, from individual directed retreats to sabbaticals to silent seasonal retreats centered around Advent and Lent. Guiding others through their spiritual journeys was simply another way that Sr. Ritamary reached Ever Higher in her personal and professional life. From 2009 to 2016, Sr. Ritamary served as executive director at Clelian Heights in Greensburg, Pennsylvania, a facility for children and adults with special needs. Clelian Heights serves individuals aged six to 65 by offering a variety of programming including a school, group home, and adult training center. The facility strives to create an encouraging and

The Apostles of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in the United States Province presently minister in five states and have missions in Taiwan and Ireland. The Generalate is located in Rome. The United States Province of the Apostles of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is led by Provincial Superior Sr. Ritamary Schulz, ASCJ, ’59,

inviting community for individuals with special needs and celebrates the achievements — large and small — that its exceptional participants make every day. It’s easy to see why Sr. Ritamary, with her visionary capabilities, found a home at Clelian Heights for seven years. And while she made a positive impact on the facility during her time there, it clearly had a tremendous impression on her as well. “Students with special needs teach us more than we can ever teach them,” Sr. Ritamary reflects. “They love unconditionally, live in the present moment, appreciate each person no matter their differences, and have joy for every little thing that happens. They live life fully with no judgment — just love and joy.” In August, Sr. Ritamary was named Provincial Superior of the United States Province for the Apostles of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, leading more than 120 Sisters in Connecticut, New York, Missouri, Pennsylvania, and Florida. In this leadership role, Sister supports the US Province of Sisters by helping them continue in the ministries they currently serve and by guiding them in their discernment of future callings. “As Provincial Superior, my hope is to hear God’s call to each of us individually and as a community,” she says. “I will be thinking about how we can best serve the Church and the world, as well as how we can live our charism of the love of the heart of Christ to the fullest, being what God is calling each of us to be.”

beloved two-time Academy principal. Sister is assisted by a Vice Provincial and the Provincial Council. Two of the councilors are Sacred Heart Academy graduates — Sr. Mariette Moan, ASCJ, ’77 and Sr. Rita Petrarca, ASCJ, ’58. Sr. Ritamary is the thirteenth Provincial Superior.

ı EVER HIGHER ı

Giving Living Water CONSERVATION AT SACRED HEART

We have to be mindful that water is a limited resource. Kate Powell, Spokesperson for the Regional Water Authority The Holy Father has made caring for creation a focal point of his pontificate, calling all people of goodwill to show gratitude and respect for the finite resources of the Earth and to work for a future where these resources may be enjoyed by all people, especially the poor.

onnecticut is in the midst of a historic drought. Despite statewide calls for reduction in the use of water, few people have taken the request seriously. Many assume that clean water will always be available because they do not understand the work and delicate ecological balance that brings water to them. President Sr. Sheila O’Neill, ASCJ, Ph.D., ’71, inspired by Pope Francis’ recent encyclical, Laudato Si, encouraged the Sacred Heart community to begin to instill a greater respect for the gift of clean water. During the last week of March, the Academy held the Every Drop Counts — Hearts for H2O campaign to achieve this goal. The campaign included various social media posts about conservation, departmentspecific projects on the importance of water, and an all-school assembly featuring Kate Powell, official spokesperson for the Regional Water Authority. Kate was eager to share the importance of conservation and educate students on

something they so often take for granted. “I understand that most people are unaware that there is a drought,” she said. “Until something directly affects the consumer, they generally don’t pay a lot of attention to it. However, our combined reservoirs are 15% below average storage levels. We have about 278 days of water left, assuming we get no rain or snow to replenish what we are using.” Kate understands that numbers can be hard for people to internalize but reiterated that southern Connecticut is undergoing a severe drought. “There is a finite amount of water on Earth,” Kate explains. “And less than 1% of that water is available to drink. We have to be mindful that it is a limited resource.” Kate drew attention to several ways that students can conserve water. “There are so many simple things anyone can do. Brushing your teeth without the faucet running each time you brush. The same goes for hand washing. Take shorter showers and don’t use the toilet as a waste basket. We talk about these simple changes all the time, but they are very effective.”

To coincide with the message of the assembly, each academic department developed a project revolving around conservation in their discipline. The Theology Department, for example, is funding an initiative to bring wells and water purification to communities in developing countries, empowering the local population to provide clean water themselves without relying too much on foreign aid. The Mathematics Department posed several problems requiring students to understand how much water they waste without realizing it. And some members of the English Department had their students write poems about water using poetic forms they had just learned about in class. It is paramount to appreciate the finite resources we have, particularly out of respect for those who go without. Cultivating an attitude of gratitude and simplicity is at the heart of the Gospel message. Remarks Sr. Sheila, “I was hopeful that the students would take away a greater appreciation and respect for all the many wonderful gifts we find on our Earth, especially water. And as a result, we committed to changing the way we use these gifts so the Earth will be protected for future generations.”

In AP Bio, juniors Amy Ziobron (left) and Maia Jukubowski (right), measure levels of dissolved oxygen in water samples from ponds and streams in neighboring towns. Since all forms of aquatic organisms use dissolved oxygen, this process is often used to analyze the quality of the aquatic bodies and their ecosystems.

C NNECTICUT CT RESERVOIRS CANDLE 5,420 acres W O O D largest MAN-MADE L A KE reservoir BAN 947 acres TAM largest NATURAL LAKE reservoir

CT WEATHER DROUGHT CONDITIONS*

100% 75%

in Moderate Drought

in Severe Drought

65%

in Extreme Drought

* RWA, FEB 2017

FULL

Regional Water Authority (RWA)

has kept records of reservoir levels for over 100 years

on reservoir levels.

may become more erratic due to climate change.

DID YOU KNOW...

<1%

Low-flow showerheads use about five gallons of water per minute

Brushing your teeth

can use four gallons of water each time you brush

CONSERVE WATER 12

Recent SNOW and RAIN has had little effect

SNOW and RAIN

WATER LEVELS COMBINED

ARE

28%

OF EARTH’S WATER IS AVAILABLE TO DRINK

ı EVER HIGHER ı

Volunteers Breathe Life into Sacred Heart

Lisa DeFrancesco Pyne ’88, P ’17(left) and her daughter, Ashlee Pyne ’17.

Volunteers are the lifeblood of all non-profit organizations. Without our students, alumnae, and parents sharing their time and talent, the mission of Sacred Heart can not be fully realized. Thank you to our many devoted volunteers for your hard work and selfless effort to ensure that our community thrives.

aint Teresa of Calcutta, canonized in September 2016, is known for her many heroic acts of service. Little known, however, is her regard for small acts of sacrifice. “Not all of us can do great things,” she said, “but we can do small things with great love.” At Sacred Heart, we take great pride in the members of our community for all the ways — both great and small — in which they volunteer. Students, parents, alumnae, and staff all share a common dedication to give back to a community which has given them so much.

difference not only in my life, but in the lives of others.” Few things are as humbling to us as the parents who, in gratitude for what Sacred Heart has done for their daughters, volunteer at the Academy in some capacity. Many parents make significant sacrifices to give their daughters a Sacred Heart education, so it is the highest compliment when they give more by volunteering.

Tiara Pearson ’13 with Sr. Mariette Moan, ASCJ, ’77.

Ashley Amarante ’18. As a freshman, student volunteer Ashley Amarante ’18 developed a desire to get to know the Apostles. By joining the Sister to Sister Club, she had an opportunity to interact with the retired Sisters. “When I started volunteering at the Manor, it seemed like a great way to make new friends. Little did I know that I would be cochair of the club as a junior. I ended up falling in love with the Sisters at the Manor and I attend as many meetings as possible. On a typical day, club members play games, listen to music, and have a snack with the Sisters. I often sit with Sr. Ernestine Desiderio, ASCJ and hold her hand while she sings songs from her youth. Even though it is hard to understand what some of the Sisters say, you can tell that they truly do appreciate our presence.” Ashley’s experience with Sister to Sister was a catalyst for her involvement in other areas. “Volunteering at the Manor led me to volunteer in other ways. For example, I am involved in the Kids Night Out Program at the Caritas Christi 14

Center which was started last year by Sr. Jeanne Marie Vonder Haar, ASCJ. The program meets twice a month and is offered to children ages four to 12. We usually play games, do crafts, watch a movie, and have pizza with the kids who love coming and always have a good time. It is always fun for me as well, and most of the children look to me as a friend. I have come to know and love all the kids that attend. This is the second year of the program, and I hope that Sister continues it for years to come.” For many of our students, volunteerism does not dwindle after graduation. Tiara Pearson ’13 volunteers with Sr. Mariette Moan, ASCJ, ’77 in the Alumnae Office and serves on the Alumnae Leadership Team as class agent coordinator. Tiara finds value in the little things she does to help reach out to alumnae and remind them they will always be a part of our community. She also treasures any opportunity to spend time with Sr. Mariette, who was her theology teacher. “Sister was and is a huge source of inspiration for my continued involvement at Sacred Heart. She truly is an Excelsior Woman, full of integrity, compassion, and hard work. I actually started working with her as a member of the Young Alumnae Association when I was a student. Her passion for the school is contagious.” Tiara’s work at Sacred Heart has continued to have an impact on her development as a young woman. “Volunteering here has taught me that any task, from a small, random act of kindness to serving others in a foreign country, makes a

Current parents Gil Earl, P ’17 and Lisa DeFrancesco Pyne ’88, P ’17, and former parent John Buckley, P ’12, have made important contributions to our school. As president of Mothers’ Club, Lisa’s interest in service was kindled while she was a student. She was an active volunteer for CT Special Olympics, various school career days, and several local soup kitchens. When her daughter, Ashlee ’17, was a freshman, Lisa was inspired to give back to her alma mater. “When Ashlee and I came to Sacred Heart for her freshman orientation, it felt like coming home. There was such a warm and friendly atmosphere. I remember speaking to several of my former classmates that evening, many of whom were volunteering at the event. They kept saying how fun it was to be a part of the Mothers’ Club, and from that moment I knew I wanted to be involved.”

Gilbert Earl, P ’17. Lisa has several responsibilities as president, and one of the most central is to get other parents to participate. “I am always on the lookout for parents to help with the numerous events that we host throughout the year. Whatever time

or talent they can share with us is so greatly appreciated and our events could not happen without their support. An hour here or there really makes a huge difference in the planning and running of our events. I know it’s difficult for working parents to help host an event or attend monthly meetings, but help is always needed, whether it be donating baked goods, setting up the cafeteria for an event, assisting with parking, or running the sports banquets.” Gil Earl’s role at Sacred Heart has been evolving ever since his daughter, Jordan ’17, was a freshman. A retired probate officer, he was happy to offer help to Director of Mission Advancement Debbie Camner. Offers Gil, “She took me up on my offer, and at first I was helping Mission Advancement with various errands but my involvement eventually extended to the musical, auction, and other special events. Sacred Heart is a perfect fit for our daughter. My wife and I are deeply impressed with the warm, nurturing environment provided by the staff and administration. With all that the school provides the students, I enjoy returning the favor.”

recommend actions based on available fact and law. “The Advisory Council serves at the will of the president to help her make informed decisions. Thankfully, the leadership does a tremendous job in presenting information to the Council so we can offer insight. There is a plethora of experience on the Council so we are able to advise at business, financial, and legal levels.”

John Buckley, P ’12. John Buckley has served on the Sacred Heart Advisory Council for two years, providing essential oversight in matters of policy and finance. His experience as a trial lawyer has honed his ability to assess risk, make cost/benefit analyses, and

John was inspired to serve based on his faith in the Apostles. “When my daughter, Meghan ’12, attended Sacred Heart I witnessed the mission of the school firsthand. I have such respect for the Apostles and the remarkable work they do to create confident young women who understand their responsibility to others. In fact, over the past 15 years I have employed several Academy students and alumnae, and I am constantly amazed at the intelligence and grace of these young women. It is an honor for me to serve on the Advisory Council to help ensure that many others will be able to experience a Sacred Heart education.”

GET INVOLVED! SIGN UP TODAY! CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS! GIVE YOUR TIME! Volunteers needed! Name ________________________________________________________________

Email _________________________________________________________________

Phone (daytime) _____________________________________________________

(evening) ______________________________________________________________

Area of Interest ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Alumna ________________________

Parent _________________________

Friend __________________________

Grandparent _________________________

Unsure of where to help? Please indicate your skills/talents: ___ Administrative

___ Fundraising

___ Clerical

___ Solicitation of Donations

___ Merchandising

___ Decorating Interest

___ Graphic Design

___ Food Prep/Service

___ Organizational

___ Display/Presentation Flair

___ Worker Bee

___ Writing/Photography

Other ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Return this form to Coordinator of Special Events Maryanne Pisani ’81 Sacred Heart Academy, 265 Benham Street, Hamden, CT 06514 or feel free to contact her at 203.288.2309, x372 or mpisani@sacredhearthamden.org to discuss ways in which you can help.

From left, Art Club President Brigit Sheehy ’17, Medical Research Club Co-President Roselynn Thattil ’18, and Young Writer’s Club President Yogasai Gazula ’17.

ı EVER HIGHER ı

Clubs Offer Something for Everyone For many schools, clubs are nearly as important as academics. Some clubs supplement academic offerings and help students concretely implement certain aspects of the curriculum, while others give students opportunities to learn non-academic skills, pursue creative interests, or hone their leadership skills. Sacred Heart Academy strives to provide each student with a myriad of opportunities to grow as a whole person. The hope is that students will appreciate that there is truly something for everyone. Peruse our list of current clubs and read about a few we highlight here — new, long-standing, and revamped.

ACADEMIC TEAM

BOOK CLUB

ALETHEA NEWSPAPER

CLASSICS CLUB

ANIME CLUB This year students were introduced to a club that is the first of its kind — the Anime Club, which seeks to explore Japanese culture through animated art forms, was founded by now president Keely Greiner ’18 who saw a void that she took the initiative to fill. “When I came to Sacred Heart, I was excited about my new high school, but I was disappointed that there was no Anime Club. Toward the end of my sophomore year, I gathered my courage and my friends and decided to make my own club.”

DANCE CLUB

Keely is aware that anime is one of the most stereotyped genres among young people. That was one reason she wanted to start the club — to help spread understanding for what she considers to be an underappreciated type of art. “The real purpose of the Anime Club is to educate the student body about anime and Japanese culture, and, hopefully, inspire a love for anime in as many people as possible! It is a beautiful art form, involving not just visual art but also music, dance, language, culture, philosophy, and more. Many complex ideas can be explored through anime in a way that other media forms cannot imitate.” ART CLUB ATHLETIC HOSPITALITY

DEBATE CLUB DRAMA CLUB FRENCH CLUB KEY CLUB Key Club, started in 1990, holds the distinction of having the largest club membership. Boasting more than 325 members, Key Club serves the school in numerous and varied ways. Director of Admissions Elaine Mastagni Lamboley ’60, who has served as the club’s moderator for all 27 years, speaks volumes of the essential role of the students in promoting the school. “Key Club is a group of students acting as school ambassadors to assist admissions,” Elaine explains. “Members are to put forward a complete and honest portrait of the school as they ‘open the door’ to Sacred Heart for prospective parents and students. Since they represent the school, they must be models of integrity and compassion.” Members of Key Club are instrumental during Open House, when they give tours and assist with presentations in classrooms. They visit dozens of feeder schools with Elaine throughout the year, using their existing relationships with guidance counselors and administrators to help promote the Academy. During the entrance

Our wide diversity of club offerings ensures that every student can be involved in the life of our school. Participation in activities reinforces positive cooperation, integrity and self-esteem, and self-confidence. Students learn to balance time between academics and extracurriculars and cultivate leadership skills. Sr. Judith Musco, ASCJ, ’61, Dean of Student Activities From left, Sadaf Khokhar ’17, Shelsey Vega-Vidal ’17, and Erika Spaulding ’17 model at the diversity assembly.

exam, Key Club members provide a warm, calming presence for prospective students. KNITTING CLUB Knitting Club emphasizes classic, handson work. Students learn the basics of knitting and, more importantly, are given the chance to utilize their newfound talent for the sake of others. “Every year we try to do a service project,” says club moderator Karen Walsh Reidy ’74. “In the past we had students knit booties and crib blankets for a pro-life baby shower. A few years ago we knitted chemo caps which were donated to the Yale New Haven Pediatric Cancer Unit in honor of Willa Rusowicz-Orazem ’13. This year the club members knitted headbands for a homeless shelter in New Haven.” Adds member Kayla LaPointe ’18, “I joined Knitting Club because I wanted to try something new. Although knitting is

‘old-fashioned’ it is a good skill to acquire. It requires patience and focus, skills we can apply to our own lives. Also, with the stress we experience in our daily lives — from school to sports — this club offers a calm environment in which you can relax.” MATH LEAGUE MEDICAL RESEARCH CLUB MOCK TRIAL MODEL UN PHOTOGRAPHY CLUB PRISM LITERARY MAGAZINE PRO-LIFE CLUB RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS SHADES OF SHA Working in tandem to promote cultural awareness, SHAdes of SHA was started in 2015 with English teacher Allison Bass and world language teacher Carmen Martinéz

Rivera, Ph.D., serving as moderators. With its motto, “What’s your shade?,” SHAdes strives to instill appreciation for the many cultures and ethnicities represented at Sacred Heart. It is an inherently inclusive club and boasts members with ancestries from across the globe. Kenyan, Irish, Puerto Rican, Haitian — these are just a handful of the ethnicities and nationalities represented in the club. SHAdes hosts a variety of events throughout the year, such as a potluck supper where staple dishes from various cultures are served. Diversity Week, where students aim to make cultural appreciation a focal point in the life of the school is the highlight of SHAdes. Allison shares, “It is so exciting to see students take on leadership roles and grow into confident, well-rounded women. Carmen and I love to see how the students problem solve as the week goes on. SHAdes members invite students, faculty, and staff to write compliments to

Destiny Hyman ’18 works on a cap for the homeless.

themselves on Monday, friends on Tuesday, and faculty, staff, and administration on Wednesday. This year we assembled a chain using the written compliments and used it in our fashion show on Friday during the diversity assembly.” Also during the diversity assembly, SHAdes welcomed traditional Chinese dancers as well as keynote speaker Lytasha Blackwell. “She brought great, positive energy,” recalls Allison, “and shared some of her spoken word poetry while reminding us to embrace ourselves and others. I truly believe that Diversity Week made an impact on our school community. It is one of my favorite weeks of the year.” SISTER TO SISTER SPANISH CLUB SPIRIT CLUB S.T.A.R. PROGRAMMERS CLUB Technically more of an upgrade than a new club, the S.T.A.R. (Students Tinkering with Awesome Robots) Programmers

Morgan Dubay ’20, a member of the Sister to Sister Club, at Sacred Heart Manor.

Club is “the new and improved Technology Club,” shares Elizabeth Christophy, Ph.D., co-moderator and science department member. Along with Kathryn Cioffi, co-moderator and technology department chair, Betty wanted to emphasize the programming aspect of the club which previously was not central. “Currently there is no course at Sacred Heart which prepares students for a computer science career,” says Betty. “So it is very important for us to expose them to computers and programming specifically.” Students hone their programming skills by working with robots and utilizing various apps to perform a variety of tasks such as navigating through small, student-constructed mazes or triggering certain sound effects. It is a concrete and fun exercise in coding that helps familiarize them with several aspects of computer science.

STRESS DOWN CLUB YEARBOOK — CLELIAN YOUNG WRITER’S CLUB Sacred Heart believes the skills developed in a club span interests and disciplines other than academics — discussing anime encourages cultural appreciation, playing with robots promotes programming skills, becoming a student leader develops confidence. These opportunities for growth are the reason the Academy strives to ensure that there is truly a club for everyone.

Sacred Heart also has organizations with elected or selected membership, with specified criteria required for membership. Those include: Chamber Choir, Concert Choir, French National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, National Chinese Honor Society, National Honor Society, National Latin Honor Society, Orchestra, Peer Connection, Science National Honor Society, Spanish National Honor Society, and Student Council.

Academy Hosts Brian Butler

RENOWNED SPEAKER ON THE THEOLOGY OF THE BODY

The human body includes right from the beginning...the capacity of expressing love, that love in which the person becomes a gift – and by means of this gift – fulfills the meaning of their being and existence. Saint Pope John Paul II

Author Brian Butler.

n March, Sacred Heart welcomed author and speaker, Brian Butler, to host a day of training for our faculty and representatives from other schools and parishes, as well as an all-school assembly on Saint Pope John Paul II’s celebrated Theology of the Body. Known for its beautiful application of the Book of Genesis to human relationships, particularly marriage, the Theology of the Body seeks to articulate how the human spirit is communicated through the physical body. Therefore, what we do with our bodies and how we use them to relate to others is also a spiritual matter. John Paul II was deeply concerned with what he described as the increasing commodification and objectification of human beings, of viewing others as nothing other than objects to use for our own interests and pleasure. He highlighted in particular the prevalence of this kind of thinking in the realm of sexuality. The Theology of the Body is integrated into our theology curriculum and the students build their comprehension of it throughout their four years.

However, Theology Department Chair Jeanne Lawlor Mazzariello ‘78, P ’05, ’07 wanted to expand student exposure to John Paul’s teachings. Drawing support from Principal Sr. Kathleen Mary Coonan, ASCJ, ‘76 and Superintendent of Catholic Schools for the Archdiocese of Hartford Michael Griffin, the department invited Brian to facilitate a student encounter of the Theology of the Body at a school-wide assembly. Brian was an ideal fit for Sacred Heart Academy, especially considering his recent publication of a text geared toward high school students. “You, Life, Love, and the Theology of the Body is a beautiful new study which we are using with our freshmen for the first time this year,” shares Jeanne. “Brian is one of the co-authors and a nationally renowned speaker. He was gracious enough to spend two days with us — one for the assembly and one for an entire day of training for our teachers and others interested in learning more about the Theology of the Body.” Sacred Heart hosted nearly 50 people from other schools and parishes during the training session

including directors of religious education, priests, religious sisters, and catechists, all of whom were actively engaged in Brian’s presentation. The assembly was also well-received by the student body. Focusing on the true nature of love, Brian applied the hopeful message of Saint Pope John Paul II to their lives and relationships. Said senior Elisa Palmieri, “Brain Butler’s talk on ‘real love’ was humorous and inspiring. Even though the topic can be difficult, Mr. Butler connected with the students and reached their level of understanding. Personally, I came away from this talk with a new understanding of what ‘real love’ truly is and that we first need the love of God before we can experience it from others.” It is clear that John Paul’s teachings are incredibly relevant to a teen audience that is, unfortunately, often faced with the expectation to conform to a dehumanizing view of relationships and sexuality. This is another area where the call to reach Ever Higher goes beyond the confines of the classroom and into the very character of the students we serve.

ı EVER HIGHER ı

COMMENCED! SACRED HEART HONORS TOP FIVE! Valedictorian Elizabeth Lamont served as president of both Art Club and Key Club and was a member of the National Honor Society, Science National Honor Society, French National Honor Society, and Heart Beat/Campus Ministry. She participated in the Moody’s Mega Math Challenge in junior and senior year and in the musical all four years. Elizabeth was recipient of the Yale University Book Award in junior year and the Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Award in sophomore year. She was a four-year athlete on the golf team. In addition to her academic and athletic achievements, Elizabeth was an active member of Sister to Sister, COR Team, and a three-year volunteer for the St. Rita School musical. Elizabeth will attend Vassar College in the fall; she is undecided on a major but considering history or art history.

Salutatorian Alysse Mastriano was a member of National Honor Society, Science National Honor Society, Spanish National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta — National Mathematics Honor Society, Key Club, COR Team, and captain of Math League. She was a four-year varsity field hockey and lacrosse player. In junior year Alysse was awarded the Harvard University Book Award and a silver medal for her performance on the National Spanish Exam. In addition to her academic and athletic accomplishments, Alysse volunteered at St. Ann Soup Kitchen and Pantry and Clelian Center. Alysse will attend the Boston College nursing program.

Fourth in her class, Abigail Kelly was a member of National Honor Society, Science National Honor Society, French National Honor Society, Latin National Honor Society, and Mu Alpha Theta — National Mathematics Honor Society. She served as president of Key Club, editor of the student newspaper, The Alethea, and was a member of Sister to Sister. Abby participated in the Moody’s Mega Math Challenge in both junior and senior year and was a student correspondent for the national “Chase the Race” program. Abigail will attend Brown University where she will major in English and minor in psychology.

Third in her class, Catherine Valloso was a member of National Honor Society, Science National Honor Society, Spanish National Honor Society, and Mu Alpha Theta — National Mathematics Honor Society. She served as treasurer of SHAdes of SHA and co-president of Book Club. In junior year Catherine was the recipient of the Gettysburg College Book Award and earned a gold medal on the National Spanish Exam. She received the Sister Mary Christine Life Sciences Award and the Maritime Aquarium Environmental Stewardship Award at the Connecticut Science Fair. Catherine will attend Fairfield University majoring in international studies.

Fifth in her class, Caroline Berberian served as vice president of National Honor Society and was a member of Science National Honor Society, Peer Connection, and Key Club. She was awarded a bronze medal for her performance on the National Spanish Exam and received an honorable mention at the Connecticut Science Fair. Caroline was a two-time SCC ScholarAthlete and earned a varsity letter in track all four years holding the Sacred Heart 3000-meter record. In addition to her academic and athletic achievements, Caroline spent a week in the Dominican Republic as a medical volunteer the summer following junior year. Caroline will enter the pre-med program at Davidson College in the fall.

Class of 2017 College Acceptances Adelphi University Albany College of Pharmacy Albertus Magnus College Allegheny College American University Anna Maria College Assumption College Auburn University Barry University Baylor University Belmont University Bentley University Binghamton University Boston College Bridgewater College Bridgewater State University Brown University Bryant University Bucknell University Central Connecticut State University Champlain College Chapman University Clemson University Coastal Carolina University

College of Charleston College of the Holy Cross Curry College Davidson College Dickinson College Drexel University Eastern Connecticut State University Emerson College Emmanuel College Emory University Endicott College Fairfield University Flagler College Florida Institute of Technology Florida Southern College Fordham University George Mason University Gettysburg College Gordon College Hamilton College High Point University Hofstra University Iona College

Ithaca College Jacksonville University James Madison University Johnson & Wales University Keene State College King’s College La Salle University Lafayette College Lawrence University Le Moyne College Loyola University Chicago Loyola University Maryland Lyndon State College Lynn University Macalester College Manhattan College Marist College Massachusetts College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences McGill University Mercy College Merrimack College Miami University

Michigan State University Millersville University Monmouth University Montclair State University Mount Saint Mary College Muhlenberg College New England Culinary Institute New York Institute of Technology New York University North Carolina State University Northeastern University Nova Southeastern University Pace University Paier College of Art Paul Smith’s College Pennsylvania State University Plymouth State University Pratt Institute Providence College Quinnipiac University Regis College Rhode Island College Rider University

You’re off to great places! Today is your day! 22

Rivier University Roanoke College Rochester Institute of Technology Roger Williams University Rutgers University Sacred Heart University Saint Anselm College Saint Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s University Saint Leo University Saint Michaelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s College Saint Peter's University Salem State University Salve Regina University Savannah College of Art and Design Seton Hall University Siena College Skidmore College Smith College Southern Connecticut State University Springfield College St. Bonaventure University St. John's University St. Louis College of Pharmacy

State University of New York at New Paltz State University of New York at Oneonta State University of New York at Oswego State University of New York at Purchase Stevenson University Stonehill College Stony Brook University Suffolk University Syracuse University The Catholic University of America The College of New Jersey The College of Saint Rose The George Washington University The New School The University of Alabama The University of Scranton The University of Tampa The University of Texas Towson University Trinity College Union College University of Bridgeport

University of California, Los Angeles University of California, San Diego University of Colorado at Boulder University of Connecticut University of Connecticut at Avery Point University of Connecticut at Stamford University of Connecticut at Waterbury University of Delaware University of Denver University of Georgia University of Hartford University of Maine University of Maryland University of Massachusetts, Amherst University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth University of Massachusetts, Lowell University of Miami University of Mississippi University of New England University of New Hampshire University of New Haven University of North Carolina at Charlotte University of Pittsburgh University of Puget Sound

University of Rhode Island University of Richmond University of Rochester University of Saint Joseph University of San Diego University of San Francisco University of South Carolina University of St. Andrews University of the Sciences in Philadelphia University of Vermont University of Washington Vassar College Villanova University Virginia Tech Virginia Wesleyan College Washington and Lee University Washington College Wentworth Institute of Technology West Chester University West Virginia University Western Connecticut State University Western New England University Worcester Polytechnic Institute Xavier University

Your mountain is waiting, so get on your way! Dr. Suess 23

EXCELSIOR LIVES Barbara Tracchio Romano ’61

Barbara Tracchio Romano ’61 and right, Barbara with her family at the 2017 Hearts of the Community Award liturgy.

oyal. Dedicated. Genuine. These are some words friends and alumnae use to describe Barbara Tracchio Romano ’61, active Sacred Heart volunteer, and 2017 recipient of the Hearts of the Community Award. “For me, there is always more in the giving than in the receiving,” says Barbara. “There is always an opportunity to help or attend to another person’s needs.” During her career as a special education teacher, Barbara went above and beyond in the classroom. After participating in a small theatre group that performed for local charities, schools, and hospitals, she realized that the special education students she worked with on a day-to-day basis would also benefit from being exposed to music and theatre. “It was wonderful to bring some moments of joy and laughter to people spending their days in isolation and pain,” says Barbara. “I quickly realized the therapeutic benefit of music and role play in a special education curriculum, and I

A charism is any gift that flows from God’s love. It’s a gift freely and graciously given — a grace. Barbara Tracchio Romano '61

used these talents in my professional career.” Barbara always finds a way to joyfully serve others, whether by caring for ill family members, donating her time and talents to community theatre groups, or serving as reunion representative on the Alumnae Leadership Team. In this leadership role, Barbara combines even more of her passions — her love for Sacred Heart and her commitment to encouraging strong bonds among alumnae. “After working on my own 50th Reunion in 2011,

Sr. Mariette shared with me her ideas for a new protocol for planning reunions. I was eager to help put this protocol into practice,” Barbara explains. “I count my years at Sacred Heart as some of the best and most influential of my life. Some of the friendships I made have endured for more than 50 years.” The Hearts of the Community Award is given biennially to individuals who exhibit the charism of the Academy. It’s hard to imagine anyone more qualified to receive the award than Barbara. She shares her time and talents with Sacred Heart through her volunteerism, but also considers it a gift to serve others. “A charism is any gift that flows from God’s love. It’s a gift freely and graciously given — a grace,” Barbara says. “We all have these gifts and it’s our responsibility to use them for good, in service to others. In that way, we can be a channel of God’s goodness.” You inspire us, Barbara Tracchio Romano ’61, this issue’s Excelsior Woman!

We hope you enjoyed reading about an exceptional alumna who inspires us. This column is dedicated to Sacred Heart Academy’s Excelsior Women. Nominate your Excelsior Woman by emailing alumnae@sacredhearthamden.org. 25

STUDENT SPOTLIGHTS Hannah Ahearn ’17 & Alex Ciampi ’17

hen Hannah Ahearn ’17 first thought about volunteering at St. Martin de Porres Academy in New Haven to fulfill her sophomore service requirement, she did not realize it would evolve into one of the most important aspects of her life. “I knew about St. Martin because I went to Assumption School in Ansonia and we used to play them in basketball. My mother and I were thinking about ways to fulfill the service requirement and she remembered hearing that St. Martin needed tutors after school to help the kids. She thought that I should give it a try.”

As soon as Hannah started at St. Martin de Porres she began to forge strong relationships with the students through her involvement in the basketball program as well as tutoring. “When I helped coach the girls junior varsity team I ending up staying at the school until 5:15,” Hannah says. “Every time I walk into the school, kids jump out of their seats, even if they are still in class, and run out into the hallway to greet me. They are always smiling, and it makes my heart so full to see the impact my just being there has on them. I have been told that a student can be having a bad day but as soon as he sees me he lights up and smiles.” Hannah became close to several students, but there is one who stands out. “My relationship with a boy named Jonathon is one I will forever hold dear. I met him during my first few weeks of tutoring and he has had such an impact on my life. I don’t think I have ever seen him frown. He has taught me that one of the most important things you can do for people is to always smile. Every time I tutored he gave me a huge hug and made sure I was doing OK. I worked with him for four years and now he is at Notre Dame High School, and a football teammate of my younger brother.” Hannah’s involvement also motivated one of her peers to volunteer at St. Martin. Fellow senior

Like Hannah, Alex tutors students who are struggling academically and does odd jobs around the school. Hannah and Alex were amazed by how much the students gave back to them. “When I started volunteering, I did not realize that I would learn so much from eighth grade boys,” Hannah says. But it did not take long for her to realize that the students had so much to offer her as well. “I think the most important thing I have learned from my experience at St. Martin is never to take anything for granted. Most students live below the poverty line and get by with much less than I do. They appreciate every single thing they have been given, no matter how small.”

Left, Alex Ciampi ’17 and right, Hannah Ahearn ’17.

The most important thing I have learned from my experience at St. Martin is never to take anything for granted. Most students get by with much less than I do. They appreciate every single thing they have been given, no matter how small. Hannah Ahearn '17

Alex Ciampi shares how Hannah inspired her to elevate her volunteerism. “I began volunteering during my junior year when I learned that Hannah volunteered there every week. I had always wanted a service project that I could do weekly and I was so moved by her dedication.”

Alex agrees. Her experience at St. Martin truly awoke a deep sense of gratitude for all that she previously took for granted. “Once I started working closely with these kids and heard some of their stories I really started thinking about how blessed I am,” she explains. “One of the girls told me that she had a missing homework assignment that she had to complete again. When I asked her why it was missing, she said she actually had done it but she left it in one of the houses she was staying in and she didn’t know the next time she would be there. Apparently, she sleeps at a different house every night. This was so eyeopening for me because I take going home to my bed every night for granted.” Hannah and Alex have shared their time, knowledge, and talents with so many students at St. Martin. But they received something arguably greater in return — an awakening of gratitude for all that they have.

Student Spotlight appears in each issue of HEART profiling students who excel in unique ways. If you would like to nominate a student for Student Spotlight, please email bgriffin@ sacredhearthamden.org.

ı AROUND THE ACADEMY ı

NEASC Reaccreditation Process Underway Every ten years, independent schools undergo a comprehensive evaluation using a full array of standards and policies, based on the published Standards of Accreditation of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC), for the purpose of reaffirming institutional accreditation. NEASC is a voluntary, notfor-profit, self-governing organization whose primary purpose is the accreditation of educational institutions to provide public assurance about the educational quality of schools and colleges.

Ph.D., P ’16, Director of Mission Advancement Debbie Camner, and faculty member Susan Vitali round out the NEASC Steering Committee. Faculty and staff members Kerry Alexander, Barbara Badore, P ’10, Maria Cammarota, Cheryl Celentano, Alora Caraglio Coppola ’08, Kim Cramer Curbow ’81, MaryLee Delaney, Holly Fink, Jeanne Lawlor Mazzariello ’78, P ’05, ’07, Susan Nelson, Sr. Mary Jane Paolella, ASCJ, ’65, Anna Patel, and Sr. Lisa Retort, ASCJ, and Advisory Council member Robert McMahon, P ’16, ’17 are serving as Standards Chairs.

Sacred Heart is well into the first phase of the reaccreditation process with Dean of Students and New Teacher Mentor Sr. Judith Musco, ASCJ, ’61 and Dean of Studies and Safety Chair Annette Vasaturo, P ’02, ’05, ’11 serving as chairs. President Sr. Sheila O’Neill, ASCJ, Ph.D., ’71, Principal Sr. Kathleen Mary Coonan, ASCJ, ’76, Dean of Academics Sibani Sengupta,

Sacred Heart is excited about this opportunity to look closely at who we are and the ways in which we can grow. In the spring, faculty meetings focused on NEASC Standards, and during the 2017-18 academic year we will work diligently to complete the research and writing phase. The final document will be submitted to the visiting committee by July, 2018, and the visiting committee will be welcomed to campus in fall 2018.

Seniors Recognized for Excellence in Arts

Students Unplug for iPhone Fast

Elizabeth Lamont ’17 (left) and Ashley Gerckens ’17. On Ash Wednesday, students participated in the Archdiocese of Hartford sponsored “I Phone Fast! Can u?” campaign to help deepen their relationship with God by silencing their devices. The concept was to direct attention away from cell phone usage, allowing God a chance to converse with one’s heart instead. Students “phone fasted” again on Good Friday. “God speaks to us in unique and creative ways; we need to listen with care. By ‘phone fasting’ it becomes easier to listen,” shared Director of Campus Ministry Sr. Lany Jo Smith, ASCJ. “Fasting from cell phones is not a traditional Lenten observation. We added this choice to the more traditional disciplines…performing service, fasting from food, making donations, and praying,” Sister added.

The Connecticut Association of Schools (CAS) annually honors two outstanding seniors from each member school who excel in the performing and visual arts while possessing the qualities of scholarship and leadership. Congratulations to Elizabeth Lamont ’17 (left) and Judith Suffrard '17 (right) who were selected for excellence in the visual arts and performing arts, respectively.

The Academy was joined in the “phone fast” campaign by five other schools in the Archdiocese: East Catholic High School (Manchester); Holy Cross High School (Waterbury); Notre Dame High School (West Haven); Sacred Heart High School (Waterbury); and Saint Paul High School (Bristol). Students who took the challenge received special “I Phone Fast! Can u?” stickers.

ı AROUND THE ACADEMY ı

Sara Martin ı Our 2016 - 2017 Scholar-Athlete Congratulations to senior Sara Martin, this year’s Scholar-Athlete selection. Recognized for her cumulative grade point average, varsity sports participation, community service, self-discipline, integrity, and leadership, Sara was honored at the 34th Annual Connecticut High School ScholarAthlete Awards Dinner in May at Aqua Turf Club. A member of the National, Science, and Spanish Honor Societies, Sara earned high honors all four years. Notable academic accolades included the Holy Cross Book Prize and National Spanish Exam Gold recognition. A four-year varsity field hockey and lacrosse standout, this year Sara served as captain of both teams and was named to the SCC Academic All-Star Team all four years. She also played premier winter lacrosse throughout high school. “My time at Sacred Heart on the field hockey and lacrosse fields, as well as in the classroom, has taught me powerful life lessons. The friendships I have made throughout my four years, both on and off the field, have allowed me to build a strong support system and find people who I can count on. I am confident that the academics and athletics offered at Sacred Heart have prepared me for success in all of my future endeavors.” — Sara Martin ’17

Sara volunteers at Cheshire Community Food Pantry and Connecticut Food Bank, tutored students, and served as the basketball manager for one season. A member of the Campus Ministry COR Team, Key Club, and Random Acts of Kindness, Sara was a most valuable member of our community. And if all this isn’t enough, Sara works as a member service representative at Connex where she successfully utilizes

her consistently calm and ever-steady demeanor to make customers feel at ease. “Sara is a young woman who fully dedicates herself to everything she takes on. Whether encouraging her fellow teammates on the field hockey and lacrosse fields, supporting younger students when they find a particular topic challenging, or cheering on the Patriots with her Dad, Sara has an incredible sense of loyalty and always wants to be and do her best,” shared Director of Guidance Kerry Alexander. “Sara is the true definition of a ScholarAthlete. As captain of field hockey and lacrosse, she was an inspiration to her teammates demonstrating a tremendous work ethic on and off the field. She was named to the All-Academic teams in both sports, in addition to earning many other athletic and academic honors. Sara is a true leader in every sense of the word,” offered Athletic Director George Bedocs. Sara joins a distinguished group of young women at Sacred Heart…Scholar-Athletes who have taken on the challenge of the Academy’s rigorous academics while excelling in athletics. Always representing Sacred Heart in the best possible light, Sara consistently demonstrated hard work and determination both in the classroom and on the field, and inspired her classmates, coaches, and teammates to also always bring their best…a true role model.

CONNECT WITH #SHA Follow us on social media for the latest news and happenings at the Academy! Stay up-to-date on our students, alumnae, sports, and events.

LIKE. FOLLOW. PIN. WATCH. SHARE. facebook.com/sacredhearthamden & facebook.com/groups/SHAalumnae

School ı @SHAhamden Athletics ı @SHA_Sharks

pinterest.com/SHAhamden

@SHAhamden

youtube.com/sacredhearthamden

Sophomores Chosen for Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Seminar

Newest Sister Antonine Signorelli, ASCJ Scholars Celebrated Incoming freshmen with the highest entrance exam scores and those who demonstrate outstanding academic potential are selected to receive the Sister Antonine Signorelli, ASCJ Memorial Scholarship each year. Established in 1993, the scholarship honors the life, philosophy, and achievements of the Academy’s founding principal. These students display strong academic success with the promise of future accomplishment and truly affirm the Academy’s motto, Excelsior. This year we welcome 16 new Antonine Scholars: Anoushka Ahuja of Wallingford; Emma Cahill of Northford; McClain Cassello of Branford; Madison Cocce of Ansonia; Claire Dobbins of New Haven; Siobhan Ekeh of Milford; Gabrielle Germain of Hamden; Jada Ijeh of Meriden; Lauren Jerram of Wallingford; Eva Mathis of Branford and Meriden; Lia Prato of North Branford; Kristine Roy of Wallingford; Kyra Sette of Hamden; Livia Taddei of Wallingford; Anna Weingart of Hamden; and Adjoa Yeboah of Cheshire. Our newest Sister Antonine Scholars and their families attended a reception held in their honor during March, hosted by the Admissions Office and current Sister Antonine Scholars. Sacred Heart is proud of these young women and all members of the incoming Class of 2021.

Claire Lagarde ’19 (left) and Mary Sarah Olson ’19. Each year, one sophomore is chosen by the Social Studies Department to represent Sacred Heart at the Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership (HOBY) Seminar and one sophomore is chosen as alternate. Selection is based on essays on leadership. The Social Studies Department has announced this year’s selection is Mary Sarah Olson ’19 with Claire Lagarde ’19 serving as alternate. Founded in 1958, HOBY’s mission is to inspire and develop our global community of youth to a life dedicated to leadership, service, and innovation. HOBY seminars are conducted annually throughout the United States, serving local and international high school students. These seminars allow select students to participate in unique leadership training, service-learning, and motivation-building experiences. The HOBY Seminar is the only program exclusively designed for high school sophomores.

Get Ready for Liftoff.... New Website Coming Soon! Our website is getting a new look! This summer, the communications team will be building a new website through OnMessage, a Blackbaud product. The site will be redesigned and mobile friendly, just in time for the upcoming school year. We are excited about this project and will provide more information as we get closer to the launch date.

COMING SOON....

sacredhearthamden.org

We congratulate Mary Sarah and Claire.

2016

ı AROUND THE ACADEMY ı

Junior Selected for All-State Music Festival

For the third time, we participated in #GIVINGTUESDAY, a global movement for online giving on November 29, 2016. This one-day fundraising effort supports our Annual Fund and directly impacts current and future students. We are proud partners of the #GIVINGTUESDAY movement and thanks TUE your continued generosity, our third #GIVINGTUESDAY was a huge success!

SACRED HEART 21,300 DOLLARS RAISED FROM 247 TOTAL GIFTS 125 ALUMNAE • 37 CURRENT PARENTS • 34 ALUMNAE PARENTS 34 FACULTY/STAFF • 5 GRANDPARENTS • 7 FRIENDS • 2 CURRENT STUDENTS • 3 ADVISORY COUNCIL MEMBERS

GLOBALLY 168 MILLION DOLLARS RAISED FROM 1,560,000 TOTAL GIFTS 2,399,092 SOCIAL MEDIA ENGAGEMENTS • 98 COUNTRIES AND TERRITORIES AROUND THE WORLD PARTICIPATED

Social Studies Department Expands Offerings The Social Studies Department will offer two new courses beginning in the 2017-18 academic year: AP European History and Law and the Legal System. AP European History, a course for sophomores, will focus on developing students’ abilities to think conceptually about European History from 1450 to the present. Students will apply historical thinking skills as they learn about the past, read and analyze primary sources, and write analytical research papers. Law and the Legal System will be open to sophomores, juniors, and seniors. The course is being designed to introduce students to the structure and procedures of the United States legal system. Students will be asked to actively engage through debate, research and discussion, note taking and reading, and experiential learning projects.

Violinist Eunji Lee ’18 was selected to participate in the Connecticut Music Educators Association (CMEA) All-State Music Festival after successfully completing a two-step audition process, first competing against the most talented musicians in Southern Connecticut and then against the best violinists in the entire state. Eunji did extremely well at both auditions and thoroughly enjoyed participating in the three-day music festival in April at the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford. Congratulations to Eunji! Sacred Heart is proud.

Mother Clelia Merloni Now One Step Closer to Sainthood The Apostles of the Sacred Heart of Jesus joyfully announced that on December 21, 2016, at 7:00 p.m., Pope Francis signed the Decree of Venerability for Mother Clelia Merloni. The Positio, or study of her heroic virtue, was approved unanimously by teams of theologians, cardinals, and bishops. The Apostles are grateful for this great gift to their congregation and continue to offer prayers and petitions, through the intercession of Mother Clelia. “We praise the Blessed Trinity and thank God for this great grace. It is a feast in heaven and on Earth! Please share this great news of Venerable Mother Clelia with everyone,” shared Superior General Mother Miriam Cunha Sobrinha, ASCJ. To advance the cause to the next step toward beatification, a proven miracle must be presented. Formal evaluation by experts of a presumed miracle attributed to the intercession of Mother Clelia is currently underway. To be declared a saint of the Catholic Church, two approved miracles are required. Mother Clelia founded the congregation of the Apostles of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in 1894, in Viareggio, Italy.

MATH COUNTS Kudos to our top mathematicians! The team of Julia Davis ’17, Cathleen Halasinski ’17, Arushi Khanna ’18, Elizabeth Lamont ’17, and Eunji Lee ’18, placed in the top 200 of 1,121 teams from across the country in the internet-based Moody’s Mega Math Challenge. This ranked them in the top 17.8% of submissions in this year’s M3Challenge. We are very proud of this accomplishment.

From left, Elizabeth Lamont ’17, Julia Davis ’17, Math Department Chair Kathryn Gniadek, Eunji Lee ’18, and Arushi Khanna ’18. Missing from photo, Cathleen Halasinski ’17.

Coached by Math Department Chair Kathryn Gniadek, the Moody’s Mega Math Challenge is a mathematical modeling contest for high school students sponsored by The Moody’s Foundation. The M3Challenge spotlights applied mathematics as a powerful problem-solving tool, as a viable and exciting profession, and as a vital contributor to the advances in an increasingly technical society. The contest challenges students to utilize applied mathematics by giving them an opportunity to work in teams to tackle real-world problems under time and resource constraints akin to those faced by industrial applied mathematicians.

Nicole Cormier Beaudwin ’99

Please enjoy our feature where we hope, in 265 words or less, to capture a snapshot of life at the Academy from one of our faculty or staff, students, or alumnae.

acred Heart welcomes students of diverse backgrounds and helps them grow in a caring environment that encourages “compassion, justice, and sense of responsibility to self, to others, and to the needs of society.” While I certainly couldn’t recite these mission and vision statements when I was a student at SHA, I did retain the lyrics to a First Friday song called “Voices that Challenge.” The “challenge” part is probably what most spoke to the teenage me, courageous and poised to dare and defy. And when I returned to Sacred Heart nine years later, this time to teach how to uncover the “American” voice and explore how writers use words to make themselves heard, this song was still a favorite. Ironically though, while I was extolling the rebellious spirits of Holden Caulfield, Edna Pontellier, Janie Crawford, and Jo March, I spent my first year as a teacher dreading voices that challenged me. But discomfort leads to growth, and these voices helped me find my own. Today, I celebrate voices that challenge, both in literature and in my classes, and I dare students to enter the conversation with American authors who question gender stereotypes, conformity, and what it really means to be an American. While some may use their voices to embarrass, subjugate, and alienate marginalized groups of Americans, we must celebrate diversity and emphasize the importance of collaborating, listening, and empowering; soon, Sacred Heart Academy graduates will go out into the world and use their voices to challenge ignorance, injustice, and abuse of power, because if there’s one thing the American voice and our girls do best, it’s challenge.

ı AROUND THE ACADEMY ı

2017 SCC Scholar Leaders

Caitlyn Napierkowski ’17 (left) and Katherine Mackey ’17 with principal Sr. Kathleen Mary Coonan, ASCJ, ’76. KATHERINE MACKEY ’17 Katie truly embodies our motto — Excelsior — as she constantly strived to grow as a scholar, a leader, and a person who lives the core values of our school.

Katie will enroll at Loyola University Maryland in the pre-med program in the fall.

CAITLYN NAPIERKOWSKI ’17 A serious student, Katie has challenged herself every step of the way “Kate is someone who leads by example and, while sharing her gifts, and has taken five AP and four ECE classes. She earned high honors empowers others to also be the best version of themselves,” shares all four years and is a member of National Honor Society and the Principal Sr. Kathleen Mary Coonan, ASCJ, ’76. Latin and Science National Honor Societies. In her junior year, Katie was selected to represent A natural leader, Kate served as senior class The Southern Connecticut Conference Sacred Heart at the Connecticut Science Fair. president and varsity softball captain this year. (SCC) hosted its 23rd Scholar Leader As class president, Kate was respected for Banquet in April. Forty-six scholar The word at Sacred Heart is… “if you need representing all members of her class equally — leaders, two from each member school, something done, ask Katie.” Active in Student the theatre kids, the smart kids, the quiet kids. were recognized for outstanding Council all four years, this year Katie served as She is truly an advocate for all. A four-year varsity scholarship and leadership in their president. She was also a member of Key Club, softball player, Kate played center field. respective schools and communities. yearbook editor, coordinated the selection of Katherine Mackey ’17 and Caitlyn our new school mascot, and founded our dog People are naturally drawn to Kate, who is Napierkowski ’17 were selected to therapy program. exceedingly charismatic. She never thought twice represent Sacred Heart Academy. about wearing the school’s shark mascot costume Katie has volunteered with Cooperative to create school spirit and was co-founder of our Educational Services in the occupational therapy Spirit Club. As a member of Key Club, she acted as department and as a camp counselor at the an ambassador to assist in admissions. Franciscan Life Center and Cheshire Lutheran Church. She has participated in several sports including varsity indoor and outdoor Outside of school, Kate has held a job at a law firm since junior year track (hurdler), freshman/jv volleyball, and freshman basketball. and is trusted with their most sensitive information. She serves as a “Katie is everything we hope for…kind and compassionate, a friend to those who need one, a voice for those who cannot express their own, and a young woman not afraid to speak her mind, but always in a respectful manner,” offered Director of Guidance Kerry Alexander.

lector, usher, and volunteer at Blessed Sacrament Church. Whether in the classroom, on the field, or serving others, Kate works tirelessly, always giving 100 percent. She will attend the nursing program at Quinnipiac University in the fall.

Seniors Move On to Play College Sports

Legacy Strongly Represented in Class of 2021

Legacies from the incoming Class of 2021 were recognized this winter at the annual Orientation for Incoming Freshmen. Eighteen members of the class have mothers who are alumnae and nine members of the class have grandmothers who are alumnae. Twenty-eight class members have one or more sisters who are current students or graduates of the Academy — 33 sisters in all. Members of the entering class come from 20 towns and 42 feeder schools. “Sacred Heart legacy is again strongly represented in this class. We are particularly struck with the number of alumnae who are sending their daughters to Sacred Heart. The presence of these young women at the Academy is a testament to the importance that families place on the values learned here, and their desire to ensure that the Sacred Heart tradition continues,” announced Director of Admissions Elaine Mastagni Lamboley ’60 in welcoming the Class of 2021.

From left (top row), seniors Allie Brennan, Annie Cunningham, Jessica Patton, and from left (bottom row), Claudia Capozza, Olivia Franco, Alexa Fiala, and Madison Clark. Claudia Capozza Olivia Franco Alexa Fiala Madison Clark Annie Cunningham Allie Brennan Jessica Patton

Basketball Track and Field Crew Club Gymnastics Soccer Track and Field Basketball Cheerleading

Roger Williams University Roger Williams University University of Rochester Xavier University Washington & Lee University Springfield College Adelphi University

The following members of the Class of 2021 are Sacred Heart Academy legacies: Ava Andreoli, daughter of Marian Addotta Andreoli ’93 Talia Bellucci, daughter of SallyAnn Esposito Bellucci ’87 Emma Cahill, daughter of Amy Wirkus Cahill ’94, granddaughter of Mary Flynn Cahill ’57 Claire Christie, daughter of Cynthia Pettella Christie ’88 Madison Cocce, daughter of Alyssa Cocce ’98 Tess Donovan, daughter of Tricia Biondi Donovan ’87, granddaughter of Joan Zullo Biondi ’63 Margaret Egan, daughter of Lisa Grasso Egan ’81

Sacred Heart Academy and Notre Dame High School “Dance their Socks Off” for a Good Cause At a recent mixer — commemorating the 70th anniversary of both schools — 1,475 pairs of socks were collected! That’s 2,950 feet that are now warm and comfy thanks to students and faculty from Sacred Heart and Notre Dame. Socks were donated to St. Ann Soup Kitchen and Pantry and the Grand Avenue Shelter. Throughout this school year, Sacred Heart and Notre Dame planned a variety of events highlighting, in particular, the close relationship between the two schools. SHA and NDWH have shared in liturgies, concerts, plays, events, and much more over the years.

Lauren Jerram, daughter of Karen Witkowski Jerram ’87, granddaughter of Carol Smith Witkowski ’63 Eva Mathis, daughter of Lynn Jasaitis LaCroix ’86, granddaughter of Carol Detullio Mathis ’64 Avery Mendick, daughter of Susan Broshjeit Mendick ’88 Emma Milrad, daughter of Kimberly Patton ’89, granddaughter of June Ellen Debowes Patton ’65 Lia Prato, daughter of Jennifer Tonucci Prato ’91 Amelia Roberts, daughter of Michele Canestri Roberts ’95 Charlotte Rossetti, daughter of Rita-Marie Rogers Rossetti ’87 Annabelle Sarojak, daughter of Christine Oxsalida ’87, granddaughter of Barbara Traccio Romano ’61 Kyra Sette, daughter of Lynn Velleca Sette ’82 Marigrace Singer, granddaughter of Joann Vena Lucian ’55 Julia Tangari, daughter of Jennifer Forte Tangari ’88, granddaughter of Annette Currier Forte ’61 Mia Willette, daughter of Anita DeLucia ’87 granddaughter of Anna Marsico DeLucia ’51

Hearts Community

ı MISSION ADVANCEMENT ı

Honorary, Memorial, and Commemorative Donations Did you know that you can make a tax-deductible donation to Sacred Heart in honor or memory of someone, or to commemorate an event or milestone? We will notify the individual or family of your contribution and publish it in the Honor Roll of Giving section of HEART magazine.

Award Nomination Form

The award will be presented during a Mass of Celebration on Friday, February 2, 2018. A reception will follow for family and friends of the recipient. We invite nominations for the 2018 Hearts of the Community Award. Nominees may be alumnae, friends of the Academy, and former or current parents and faculty. Please submit nominations to: Sacred Heart Academy, Office of Mission Advancement, 265 Benham Street, Hamden, CT 06514 or mpisani@sacredhearthamden.org using this form. Name of nominee____________________________________________________ Phone_____________________________________________________________

OMA Internship Program — Apply Now

Address ___________________________________________________________ Email _____________________________________________________________ Affiliation:

Alumna_____

Parent_____

Faculty_____

Friend_____

The Office of Mission Advancement initiated an unpaid internship program in summer 2016. The goal is to offer opportunities for college and graduate students, retirees, or those wishing to re-enter the workforce to expand their experience in specific fields of interest while supporting OMA. The following positions are currently available:

Reason(s) for nomination ______________________________________________

Grant Writer Intern................summer 2017 Public Relations Intern..........fall 2017 and/or spring 2018 Video Production Intern........fall 2017 and/or spring 2018

Phone _____________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________ Nominated by_______________________________________________________ Address ___________________________________________________________

Email______________________________________________________________

Please visit the school’s website for more information or to apply.

The Promise of Excellence The Sacred Heart Academy

The Promise of Excellence, a booklet providing information on how to support endowed and named scholarships, is available. It describes the ways in which gifts to the Sacred Heart Academy Endowment Fund help reduce tuition for recipients and secure the dreams of talented young women who qualify to attend the Academy, regardless of their ability to pay. This booklet encourages donations in any amount to the Endowment Fund and explains that donors have the option of establishing named scholarships with gifts of $15,000 and more. Scholarships are more than dollars, they are priceless investments in our students and they strengthen our community.

Heritage Society

In 2007, former principal Sr. Ritamary Schulz, ASCJ, ’59 established the Heritage Society to give alumnae, their families, and other friends an opportunity to make bequests to Sacred Heart Academy. Charitable bequests may include cash, stocks, real estate, or other property. We welcome open discussions with you or your attorney, accountant, or financial advisor on the specifics of including Sacred Heart Academy in your estate plans. Please contact the Office of Mission Advancement at 203-287-8181, x318 for further information.

Please contact Debbie Camner at 203-287-8181, x318 to request a copy of The Promise of Excellence or for information on contributing to the Endowment Fund or establishing a Named Scholarship.

RECENTLY ESTABLISHED NAMED SCHOLARSHIPS The Sr. Maureen Flynn, ASCJ, ’81 Scholarship by Sacred Heart Academy The Marylouise T. Harris Scholarship by Eugene Harris The Florence and Carmen LaVorgna Scholarship by Linda LaVorgna Hyson ’62

0070 – LICENSE TO GIVE 2 017 A U C T I O N A N D D I N N E R

nder the dedicated leadership of John and Anne Cropp, P’18, our 2017 chairs, and their tenacious and talented committee, a delightful evening was had by all at this year’s auction. Held off campus for the first time, 0070th featured fine dining, SHAkatinis, fun James Bond themed games, and marvelous one-of-a-kind items up for bid.

Two hundred and fifty guests gathered and close to $140,000 was raised to benefit the Academy. The implementation of Text2Bid proved most successful. This mobile technology provided a high energy alternative to the traditional bid process. The most exciting and memorable part of the evening, Hands Up for Heart, which supports need-based scholarships raised nearly $70,000. Special thanks to general manager and morning host for AM 1220 WQUN, Ray Andrewsen, for serving as emcee and Eric Hummel for returning as auctioneer for the thirteenth time. Many, many thanks to our generous alumnae, parents, students, and friends for helping in so many ways to make this year’s auction a success. You donated items, volunteered, contributed to Hands Up, or attended auction, and your participation helped to strengthen our community and raise vital funds in support of Sacred Heart. Certainly a night to remember!

Top (from left), Ray Andrewsen, the evening’s emcee with Advisory Council member Cynthia Mariani, Auction Chairs John and Anne Cropp, P ’18, Nancy and Stephen LaPointe, P ’18, and bottom, (from left), former Auction Chairs David and Kristen Falls, P ’15, ’20, Sr. Sheila O'Neill, ASCJ, Ph.D., ’71 with John Cropp, and 2018 Auction Chairs Stephen and Jacqueline Fitzgerald, P ’16, ’18, ’21.

ı STRONG BONDS ı

RED & WHITE LINE

1969

Kathy Berry Prentice and her husband, Bob, live in Wallingford and are enjoying time with their seven grandchildren. A highlight of last year was a trip to Rome and Paris with the unforgettable experience of attending an audience with Pope Francis.

1976

Carol Gagnon Sardinha and her husband currently live in Ansonia. Carol has discovered a new passion singing with the Grace Christian Community Church Praise Team.

1981

Sheila McCarthy Quarz recently changed roles at SAP and is now a Solutions Director on the Go to Market team. She develops strategic direction, pricing, and promotion for new software solutions. Sheila is a member of the Quinnipiac University Computer Information System (CIS) Advisory Council where she enjoys serving as a mentor for a CIS student.

1987

Rita-Marie Rogers Rossetti is a patient safety nurse at Yale New Haven Hospital Surgical Services. She and husband, Bill, are the proud parents of Georgia ’18, who is researching colleges and Charlotte ’21, an incoming freshman.

Michelle Johnson Mills and husband, Adam, welcomed Walter Dominic on January 21. Walter happily joins his five siblings.

2001

1996

Maria Quintin Cooper and husband, Christopher, welcomed their son, Alexander Quinlan, on July 18, 2016. Alexander, who arrived 3 1/2 weeks early, weighed 7 pounds, 4 ounces, and measured 19 3/4 inches. He joins big brother, William Harrison, 5. The family resides in Hawthorne, New Jersey. Meghan Elgee began her journey with the Peace Corps in Albania in March. She is committed to helping others, locally and abroad. Safe travels, Meg!

1999

1986

Laura Orlando Hanley was recently in Kenya for a month on a medical mission where she volunteered as a nurse at a medical clinic and children’s center in the Kibera slums just outside Nairobi. Laura assisted in offering medical care to the people there, many of whom are living with HIV and suffering from disease caused by poor hygiene and lack of basic sanitation.

2000

Rebecca Harris Kerrigan and husband, John, welcomed their second child in May 2016. Their daughter, Evelyn, was thrilled to welcome her baby brother, Patrick John.

2005

Amanda Robinson became engaged to David Visconti on January 10 on Eagle Beach in Aruba. Their wedding is set for September 21, 2018, at Cascade in Hamden. Best wishes, Amanda!

Sacred Heart Academy Alumnae facebook.com/groups/SHAalumnae

Margaret “Meg” Tarrant Paul gave birth to a beautiful baby boy, Carter Elie, on January 14. Congratulations to the new mom and dad, Gabriel!

Caroline Dearborn Raynis and husband, Allan, welcomed Allan Vincent Raynis III, born on November 3, 2016, at 4:05 p.m. He was 6 pounds, 13 ounces, and 19 1/2 inches. “He’s Allan the third, born on the third.” Allan joins siblings Abigail, Nathan, Lila Mae, and Lara Mae.

2007

Kathleen “Katie” Merwin recently married Michael Arcangelo, Notre Dame ’05. Her wedding was attended by an array of Excelsior Women from the Class of 2007: Kaitlin Higgins Filosa, Marissa Garcia, Kristine Johnson, Lauren Mazzariello, Molly O’Neill, Regina Scafariello, Shannon Spencer, and Shannon Sweeney. Congratulations, Katie and Michael!

2008

2009

Sarah Butler Piscatelli graduated from Hofstra University School of Law in May 2017 and is now focusing on passing the Connecticut Bar Exam. Best of luck, Sarah!

2010

Maura Greene and Mitchell Taylor were married on the Guilford green on January 4. They live in West Chester, Pennsylvania. Best wishes!

Amanda Evers is presently working as a nurse at Boys and Girls Village in Milford while attending graduate school in preparation for her doctoral degree. She is “enjoying life and living it to the fullest with many of my fellow SHA grads!” Katie Winkle is a pediatric nurse at the Yale New Haven Children’s Hospital and is celebrating ten years cancer free!

Alora Caraglio married Frank Coppola on September 30, 2016. They are living in the North Stamford area. Alora recently graduated from Fairfield University with a master’s in communication.

2012

Nicole Casasanta is a medical student at George Washington University School of Medicine in DC, Class of 2020.

Gwendolyn Lemelin majored in Rehabilitation and Disability Studies at Springfield College. She and fiancé, Domenic Pizzorusso, were engaged in October 2016 in the castle at Sleeping Giant State Park. In typical Sacred Heart style, they will be married at Aqua Turf on September 29, 2018. Congrats, Gwen! Kaylyn Carew married Edgar J. Ferreras in October 2016. Kaylyn, a postpartum maternity nurse at Greenwich Hospital, met her husband at UCONN. They reside in Milford.

sarcoma. She plans on resuming her college studies and looks forward to graduation in December.

2011

Julia Berv is elated to share that she is nine months in remission after fighting Ewing’s

Sierra Kaptain graduated from the College of Saint Benedict & Saint John’s University in Collegeville, Minnesota in May 2016 and in July moved to Miacatlán, Mexico, to volunteer for a year at Nuestros Pequeños Hermanos. NPH is an orphanage with nine homes in Central and South America. The Mexican home is the largest as it provides a home and education for 500 kids, birth through college. Sierra works as a swim instructor and caregiver for 22 girls. When she completes this commitment in July, Sierra plans to work in the nutrition/culinary field somewhere in the US. Dana Yakabowskas is grateful to share that she is a stroke survivor and has been accepted to the geology Ph.D. program at Binghamton

ı STRONG BONDS ı University – State University of New York (SUNY).

Did You Know...

2013

Katie Oliverio earned a B.S. in Health Science at Quinnipiac University in May 2017 and will continue in their master’s degree program in occupational therapy. Her dream job is to work as a birth-to-three therapist, helping small children.

2016

Haley Cannon is a student in pre-veterinary medicine and is active in environmental conservation and research. Her goal is to attend Cornell University in Ithaca, New York, for graduate work. Andrianna Corbett, a student at Keene State College in Keene, New Hampshire, is in the process of transferring to the New Orleans area in the next few months.

Stay in Touch! If you’ve moved or married, please contact us with your updated name and address information. Think about sharing information about noteworthy events or accomplishments in your life with your fellow alumnae! Submit your photos (jpg) and news to: RED & WHITE LINE ı alumnae@ sacredhearthamden.org

Be a Part of the Online Community STAY CONNECTED ALUMNAE! Register or re-register today for the SHA Online Community on our website. Visit sacredhearthamden.org. Click ‘Login’ in top right corner. Click ‘New User Registration’. It’s that easy!

The Sacred Heart Academy Alumnae Association has sent more than 300 pounds of supplies to support the Apostles’ mission in Port-au-Prince, Haiti this year. In October, the association donated school supplies and, in March, personal care products and first aid supplies.

Mark Your Calendar

2017 – 2018 ALUMNAE ASSOCIATION Alumnae Leadership Team Meetings

Alumnae Gatherings

September 27, 2017 November 29, 2017

December 5, 2017 ı Christmas Stocking Stuffer Social

February 26, 2018

March 7, 2018 ı March Madness

April 23, 2018

May 2, 2018 ı Cinco de Mayo

October 11, 2017 ı Harvest

Alumnae Gatherings are held at 7:00 p.m. in the DiMeo Library. ALL ARE WELCOME. PLEASE JOIN US.

— 2017 - 2018 ALUMNAE ACTIVITIES — October 5, 2017 ı Greene Street Girls Luncheon October 25, 2017 ı Pizza ’n Pics November 3 & 4, 2017 ı Alumnae at the Musical, Chitty, Chitty Bang Bang November 16, 2017 ı Chapel Bells Memorial Liturgy

November 22, 2017 ı Young Alumnae Return Day, Classes of 2014 -2017 April 25, 2018 ı Pizza ’n Pics II March 24, 2018 ı Children’s Easter Party May 23, 2018 ı Class of 2018 Alumnae Induction June 2, 2018 ı Alumnae Reunion Day

IN MEMORIAM Sacred Heart Alumnae Joyce Gaskin Aley ’58 Martha Abbate Amici ’53 sister of the late Mary Abbate Snopkowski ’51 Adrienne Riccitelli Ardito ’58 Arlene Starno Cassello ’66 mother of Karyn Cassello ’91 Barbara Capuano Ciesla ’50 Aileen Laudano Colello ’71 sister of Mary Ann Laudano ’75 Stephanie Gies ’03 Jacqueline “Jackie” D’Andrea Heins ’75 Gloria Appi Hudson ’67 Kimberly Coyle Kell ’80 Barbara Harding Montgomery ’56 Lucille DeMeola Ramadei ’65 sister of Mary DeMeola Stranova ’61 Valerie Klee Raucci ’84 Dorothy Bolduc Shanahan ’73 sister of Lena Bolduc Cofrancesco ’71

Sacred Heart Family Matthew Joseph Barba son of former advisory board member Joseph F. Barba Jr. brother of Susan Barba Jacobs ’83 and Jennifer Barba ’89 Robert Baron father of Justine Baron ’07 Marion Lupoli Boulia sister of Atty. Geraldine Lupoli ’59 Lewis Boyce father of Kimberly Boyce Pearson ’86 Betty Branchini mother of Dr. Marie Branchini Garcia-Abrines ’58 Robert Callahan former faculty member Eugene Calzetta brother of Sr. Claudia Calzetta, SL, ’60 and Paula Calzetta ’73

John Coady father of Danielle Coady ’07 Debra Consiglio mother of Ann Marie Consiglio ’10 Dolores Constantino mother of Sheri Constantino Camputaro ’89 Virginia DeFonzo mother of Diane DeFonzo Nehrkorn ’63 and advisory council member Dolores DeFonzo Ennico ’70 Rose Marie DeMilo mother of Jo-Ann DeMilo Iannaccone ’85 Gina Drew sister of Tammi Parisi Chicarilli ’94 Rosalie Forni mother of Paula Forni ’67, Rosemary Forni ’68, and Diane Forni ’77 Maryann Gaffney mother of Anna Gaffney Andreozzi ’79 Mary Gaffney Dunn ’80, and Elizabeth Gaffney ’86

Lauri Mongillo Ingram ’76, Theresa Mongillo Lipford ’84, and Alyssa Mongillo Andriole ’87 Gabriel Munoz husband of Wanda Desiree Jofre ’97 Frances Navarretta mother of Nancy Navarretta ’80, Susan Navarretta Pavano ’82, and Elizabeth Navarretta Franco ’85 Consiglia Nuzzolillo mother of Maria Nuzzolillo ’80 Dorothy “Dora” Onofrio mother of Susan Onofrio Afeltra ’76 and Marguerite Onofrio Costanzo ’77; former staff member Joseph Paolella father of Christine Paolella Perry ’97, brother of Sr. Mary Jane Paolella, ASCJ, ’65, and the late Anne Paolella Ferris ’72 Lawrence Paquin father of Michelle Paquin Cuomo ’84

Carolina Giano mother of Teresa Giano Vignola ’80

Thomas Peck husband of Lynne Cirincione Peck ’64

William Grady father of Mary Grady Keefe ’74, Margaret “Peggy” Grady Bikales ’80, and Eileen Grady Vermilye ’82

Helen Scanlon mother of Carolyn Scanlon DeGrand ’62 Emma Scarano mother of Donna Scarano ’76

Atty. Mary-Ann P. Haran mother of Mary Elizabeth “Mollie” Quinn ’05 and Brigid Quinn ’07; advisory council member

William Schumacher father of Diana Schumacher Carnevale ’76 and Kathleen Schumacher Miller ’77

Jeffrey Patrick Havill brother of Heather Havill ’07

Lawrence Solomon husband of Carol Bissonnette Solomon ’60

Theresa Hinckley mother of Aislinn Hinckley Devoe ’06

Sr. Stephanie Termini, ASCJ former faculty member

Judith Iannucci mother of Sherry Iannucci Maher ’86

Lorraine Thompson mother of Francis Thompson ’64

Theodora Karachristos mother of Basiliki “Bessy” Karachristos Spanos ’01

Gloria Trella mother of Mary Trella Champion ’75

Mickey Mason Macholl son of Rachel Eagan Macholl ’97

Roberta Villano mother of Kim Lee Villano ’89 and Lee Ann Villano ’91

Cynthia Maldonado mother of Shaylene Maldonado ’15

Christopher Carbone father of Jennifer Carbone ’03

Richard McGinnity husband of Frances Petrarca McGinnity ’69

Nicholas Carolla father of Maria Anne Carolla Johnson ’76

Ralph Mongillo father of Margaret Mongillo Boice ’69,

Loretto Walsh stepmother of Karen Walsh Reidy ’74 Konrad Jan Ziolo brother of Marta Ziolo Royer ’98

This memorial listing includes information as of March 1. Information about deceased persons received after this date will appear in the fall issue of HEART. Please contact the Alumnae Office when an immediate family member or a graduate has passed so that we can express our condolences and remember that person in prayer. 39

OPPORTUNITY VALUES LEGACY FUTUR

EXCELSIOR FUTURE OPPORTUNITY EX PLEASE GIVE GENEROUSLY to the VALUES LEGACY EXCELSIOR FUTURE 2016 - 2017 SACRED HEART ACADEMY OPPORTUNITY VALUES LEGACY VALUE ANNUAL FUND EXCELSIOR FUTURE OPPORTUNITY FROM THE HEART VALUES Give LEGA LEGACY EXCELSIOR

Give GENEROUSLY FUTURE EXCELSIOR OPPORTUNITY

Give FUTU NOW VALUES LEGACY EXCELSIOR F

FUTURE OPPORTUNITY VALUES OPPOR www.sacredhearthamden.org/annualfund

LEGACY EXCELSIOR VALUE FUTURE

OPPORTUNITY VALUES LEGACY FUTU EXCELSIOR OPPORTUNITY BecauseFUTURE your gift matters.

VALUES LEGACY EXCELSIOR FUTURE

OPPORTUNITY VALUES LEGACY VALU All gifts made by June 30, 2017, will be credited to the 2016 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2017 Sacred Heart Academy Annual Fund and published in the fall issue of HEART magazine in the Honor Roll of Giving section.

EXCELSIOR FUTURE OPPORTUNITY VALUES LEGACY EXCELSIOR FUTUR

Sacred Heart Academy 265 Benham Street Hamden, CT 06514-2801

Non-profit Org. U.S. Postage

PAID

Hartford, CT Permit #1382

Address Service Requested

ALL

THIN

ALL THINGS FOOD will be the thread of an upcoming issue of HEART magazine. We would like to feature students, parents, alumnae, and friends who are involved in the food industry in some way â&#x20AC;&#x201D; chefs, restaurant owners and designers, caterers, sustainable farmers, craft brewers, farmers market managers, food lawyers, etc. If you can help us identify individuals, please contact Beth Griffin, Editor, at bgriffin@sacredhearthamden.org.