Veritas Summer 2009 Edition

VERITAS

Summer 2009

A DOMINICAN ACADEMY PUBLICATION

Sr. Margaret Ormond, O.P., ’60 is elected Prioress of the Dominican Sisters of Peace (p. 6) ; Kathleen Maher Foley, M.D., ’61 is honored at the annual Board of Trustees Cocktail Reception & Silent Auction (p. 8)

Dominican Academy welcomes the new administration: Sr. Barbara Kane, O.P., Principal and Sr. Patricia Connick, O.P., Assistant Principal

44 EAST 68TH STREET • NEW YORK, NY 10065 •

W W W . D O M I N I C A N A C A D E MY . O RG

SUMMER 2009 Science. They must be exposed to the beauty of art, dance and music as well as be able to effectively navigate the ever-changing digital landscape.

Dear Alumnae, Parents, and Friends, “Cry out with joy to the Lord Serve the Lord with gladness!” These lines from Psalm 100 sum up my feelings about becoming the Principal of Dominican Academy in the fall of 2009. This past year, teaching both freshmen and juniors at D.A. was a true delight and reinforced for me the value of an all-girls high school. In my Morality class this year, I watched our girls struggle with moral issues, passionately debate them in class and then maturely agree to disagree about the outcomes. I’ve seen the metaphorical “light bulb” come on when a student finally understands a complex concept. I have witnessed a student surrounded in hugs from her classmates after sharing a painful experience. D.A. prepares our girls to be thoughtful, articulate and excited about making a difference in the world. We enable them to become leaders and to take responsibility for their actions. Our girls have many gifts and talents. The quality and quantity of these gifts were recently on display at the annual Career Day. Sixteen alums spoke to our junior class, sharing their stories of college and career life, and offering valuable advice for life during – and after –D.A. They were impressive! They inspire me to do all that I can as Principal to ensure that our future alums are ready to be just as impressive.

My role at Dominican Academy is to enable our faculty to continuously strengthen and update their skills while keeping our curriculum at the cutting edge, so that our girls are prepared to succeed in a competitive world. Success is measured academically but also spiritually as they live out the values of their faith. We must also protect the charm of this beautiful building while we provide the most up-to-date educational facilities. Using our financial resources wisely will allow us to continue our tradition of educating students of modest means and varied cultures at this excellent school. Raising funds to keep our tuition affordable and increasing scholarship dollars will be a primary focus of my time and energy. It is a big job and a sacred trust. I cannot do this alone. I need your help and prayers to keep the tradition of excellence alive at D.A. Many of you have been very generous with your time, talent, and treasure, and for this, we are very grateful. We will keep you and your family in our prayers. I look forward to meeting you, so please stop by when you are in the neighborhood or attend a D.A. event. Never hesitate to contact me. I’m excited about serving both our Lord and our girls with great joy here at Dominican Academy.

Like all of us, D.A. students face an exciting but challenging world. It is critical that we prepare them to meet these challenges. They must be rooted in their faith and encouraged to share that faith through service. At a minimum, they must have a solid foundation in English, History, Mathematics, Languages and

Writer/Editor Doreen Lobelle, ’00 Associate Director of Communications & Special Events

Event Photography Jo Ann Schilling Fannon, ’68 Associate Director of Admissions

Christina Vasilas, ‘10 Contributing Writers Katie Leo

Sr. Barbara Kane, O.P.

Inside veritas: 3

Class of 2009 Congratulations

4

Career Day 2009

6

Alumna Elected Prioress of Dominican Sisters of Peace

8

The 2009 Board of Trustees Reception & Auction

Amanda Bakowski, ‘10 Campus Minister/Religion Teacher

Yours in St. Dominic and St. Catherine,

10

The Significance of Service

11

Updates from the Alumnae Association

12

Not Your Ordinary February Winter Break

Veritas is presented bi-annually by the Development Office:

14

The Veritas Bulletin Board

Sheila Joyce

15

The Mother-Daughter Luncheon

Director of Development

16

The Class of 1959 Reunion Weekend

18

Alumnae Notes

22

In Memoriam

24

Save The Date

Danielle Romano, ‘10 Jennifer Stewart, ‘10

Doreen Lobelle Associate Director of Communications & Special Events

Dominican Academy 44 East 68th Street New York, NY 10065 Call us at 212.744.0195 Fax us at 212.744.0375 Website: www.dominicanacademy.org ...and also find us on Facebook!

Cover photo credit: Jo Ann Schilling Fannon, ’68

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CONGRATULATIONS TO THE CLASS OF 2009! The class of 2009, with a total of 51 graduates, earned approximately $10 million in scholarships and grants to many of the nation’s top colleges and universities. The Valedictorian of the Class of 2009 was Briana Pigott; the Salutatorian was Caitlin Sonnemann. The Mother Stephanie Award was given to Nicole Casey, while the All Dominican Girl Award was given to Isabel Losada. The following is a list of the graduating seniors and the colleges/universities they plan to attend in the fall:

Danielle Marie Amodeo Marie Badagliacca Katie Marie Boyle Sara Marie Bozsik Mackenzie Grace Carro Nicole Tin-Wai Casey Brittany Lisa Cole Annick Louise DaCorta Kimberly Brereton Durand-Green Kristen Dushaj Ariana Elefterakis Lindsey Anne Feldman Rose Hurley Ferris Viktoria Gabor Samantha Halpern Cáit Ellen Lane Hennessy Lauren Ann Hernandez Alexandra Dean Hitzler Jacqueline Mary Hogan Mary Elizabeth Huerster Janaé Rose Hunte Sandra Marie Ianniello Orla Kerr Elizabeth Kiyashka Victoria Lynn Laino Kristen Marie Leopoldi

Amherst College State University of New York, Binghamton Fairfield University University of Rhode Island Boston College Fordham University Franklin and Marshall College Skidmore College Marymount Manhattan College State University of New York, New Paltz Fordham University University of Delaware Lehigh University State University New York, Stony Brook The Catholic University of America State University of New York, Cobleskill Quinnipiac University Syracuse University Macaulay Honors College at Hunter College Washington and Lee University University of Michigan Fordham University State University of New York, Geneseo Fordham University City University of New York, Hunter College Sacred Heart University

Isabel J. Losada Kristen J. MacFarlane Katherine Jessica Maksim Gabrielle Margiotta Caitlin McCauley Kimberly Ann Merani Marga Bridget Morrissey Justine Ashley O’Sullivan Silvia Natalie Orozco Kelle Michelle Patterson Elizabeth Peet Briana Rose Pigott Chloe A. Politis Allysson Melissa Prada Linda Grace Ramirez Emily Patricia Regan Michelle Iris Ortuoste-Rollenas Stephanie Rogan Rynne Sofia Amalia Sainz Nicola Scalise Caitlin Rose Sonnemann Nicole Marie Stark Kimberly Janinne Suarez Cynthia Lauren Vella Bernadette-Kathryn S. Zuniga

Columbia University Cornell University Loyola College in Maryland Sacred Heart University State University of New York, New Paltz State University of New York, Binghamton Rollins College Connecticut College State University of New York, Purchase Carnegie Mellon University The City College of New York Yale University College of Mount Saint Vincent Sacred Heart University Hofstra University Quinnipiac University State University of New York, Cortland State University of New York, Albany State University New York, Binghamton City University of New York, Hunter College Fairfield University Fairfield University Fairfield University Cornell University Moravian College

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SIXTEEN ALUMNAE RETURN TO D.A. TO DISCUSS THE WINDING ROAD OF CHOOSING A CAREER PATH Career Day 2009 For Juniors

By Amanda Bakowski ’10 & Jennifer Stewart ‘10

On May 19, 2009, the junior class came to school, uncertain of what the day would hold. Dominican Academy’s annual Career Day for Juniors was to take place that morning and the Mezzanine was already filled with alumnae: women in business suits, greeting each other and sharing memories of their own time at D.A. We all piled into the Auditorium to hear the panel speak about their careers. The group included a wide range of professions, including an editor, retired professor, and even a Peace Corps volunteer. Each alumna shared her own story and explained what exactly her job entailed. Many also gave advice to the current D.A. students. Most of the speakers stressed the importance of writing as a necessary skill to develop. Christina O’Keeffe, a returned Peace Corps volunteer and current copy editor assured us, “Writing supports everything you do.” Many others stated the importance of internships. Kristin Shea, a former litigation partner, got a summer internship and stayed with the firm for twenty years. Kathryn Lopez interned on Capitol Hill, which opened the door to her career as an editor in a political news environment. Lopez reminded the juniors to be versatile and willing, no matter the job. She began her job by answering the phone and said, “Making the coffee was not below me.” The most important point stressed by the alumnae was that your career is your choice, so make it something you love. Dr. Julia Upton, a professor of Theology and Provost of St. John’s University advised, “Seize opportunities and don’t be afraid to change your mind.” Carla Loffredo had changed her mind in her career path – and doesn’t regret it. She gave up a job that was a three-minute walk from her home, so she could get back into the field of advertising, which she loved, but entailed a much

Career Day volunteers, L to R: Kristen Farren, Maria Mercader, Angela Taylor, Vanessa Reggiardo, Antoinette Freeman, Margaret Besheer and Maura Flannery (not pictured: Suzanne Musho) longer commute. She advised, “If you’re not happy, make a change.” The Chapel also housed an eclectic panel of alumnae. From the owner of an architecture firm to a U.N. correspondent to a marketing head, a plethora of career paths were represented. All of the alumnae, although employed in different fields, had one thing in common: Each loved their job. Their passion for their area of work was undeniable; it was easy to tell from the note of excitement that crept into their voices when they explained what they do for a living. Some of the most inspiring speakers were ones who began their journeys most uncertain. These alums, who had changed careers a few times, greatly calmed the fears of the juniors. Deciding what to do with the rest of your life is a very big decision, one that many juniors have yet to figure out. Hearing the stories of these working women who had changed their

occupation multiple times showed us that not everybody knows exactly what they’re going to do with their life after high school. On the other hand, the speakers who had been set in their field since college were also inspirational. Their love for their work further strengthened the juniors’ decisions to go into certain fields. All of the panelists were very approachable and open to questions, which helped end the event on a positive note. Career Day was a great day for all of the juniors. It inspired us to follow our dreams, even when they seem uncertain. It also showed us that you do not have to plan out your whole life to be successful and happy. Sometimes a little uncertainty can lead to the greatest discoveries! Many thanks to Ms. Lobelle, Ms. Adlow and the Alumnae Association for coordinating this event at D.A. We hope the Class of 2011 will enjoy Career Day next year as much as we did!

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A BIG THANKS TO OUR INSPIRING CAREER DAY VOLUNTEERS: Margaret Besheer, ’85 U.N. Correspondent, Voice of America

Elizabeth McCabe, ’95 Director of Government Relations, John Jay College of Criminal Justice, CUNY

Kristin Shea, Esq., ’82 Former litigation partner, Conway, Farrell, Curtin & Kelly, PC

Kristen Farren, ’00 Media Strategy Supervisor, OMD

Maria Carla Mercader, ‘83 Producer, CBS News

Alexandra Sununu, ‘60 Teacher/Professor in Romance Languages, Retired

Maura Flannery, ’65 Professor of Biology & Director of the Center for Teaching and Learning, St. John’s University

Suzanne Musho, ’86 Owner and Managing Member, Musho Architecture

Antoinette Mirsberger Freeman, ’99 Former Staff Accountant, Fordham University Carla S. Loffredo, ‘69 President and CEO, MAXUS Advertising Kathryn Lopez, ‘94 Editor, National Review Online

Christina O’Keeffe, ‘93 Copywriter/copyeditor & returned US Peace Corps volunteer

Angela Taylor, ’79 Assistant to Mayor/Chief of Staff, City of New Rochelle Julia Upton, RSM, ’63 Provost & Professor of Theology, St. John’s University

Vanessa Reggiardo, ’85 Vice President, Global Marketing, Color Cosmetics, AVON Elizabeth Schoentube, ’97 Vice President, Human Capital Management Division, Goldman Sachs & Co.

Career Day volunteers, L to R: Alexandra Sununu, Kathryn Lopez, Christina O’Keeffe, Kristin Shea, Elizabeth McCabe, Carla Loffredo, Elizabeth Schoentube and Julia Upton, R.S.M.

Photo credit: Christiana Vasilas, ‘10

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ALUMNA ELECTED PRIORESS OF DOMINICAN SISTERS OF PEACE Sr. Margaret Ormond, O.P., ’60 and Her Roles of “First Among Equals” and Preacher of Peace “Our world is hungry for the Gospel and we, as Dominicans, are charged in a special way to witness to this Gospel with joy, wisdom, and example. Adapting this mission to today’s globalized world, especially with its recent economic challenges, will require sacrifice, study, prayer, and teamwork on the part of the leadership and membership alike.”

On Saturday, April 18, 2009, the newly formed congregation, Dominican Sisters of Peace, elected their first Prioress, Sister Margaret Ormond, O.P., a Dominican Academy alumna from the class of 1960. As Prioress, which translates as “first among equals,” Sr. Margaret will oversee the new beginnings of this new congregation. Before you can truly understand the significance of her election, you should first know the background of this brand-new congregation. On Easter Sunday, April 12, 2009, the Dominican Sisters of Peace officially formed by the union of the following seven congregations of Dominican Sisters: Dominican Congregation of St. Rose of Lima (Oxford, MI); Dominican Sisters, Congregation of St. Mary (New Orleans, LA); Dominican Sisters of Great Bend (Great Bend, KS); Dominican Sisters, St. Mary of the Springs (Columbus, OH); Dominicans of St. Catharine (St. Catharine, KY); Eucharistic Missionaries of St. Dominic (New Orleans, LA); and Sisters of St. Dominic of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (Akron, OH). The name was chosen by the congregations’ membership through a lengthy process that included several phases of reflection and input gathering. Sr. Margaret recalls how the name truly was God-given: “There were two different meetings going on about the name of the congregation, both on different sides of the country. At both meetings, without knowing what was going on at the other, those in attendance agreed to move Dominican Sisters of Peace to the top of the list, as it

– Sr. Margaret Ormond, O.P., Prioress had previously been at the bottom. It was clear that there really was a call for peace, especially in our world today, so now we are called to be preachers of peace.” The Dominican Sisters of Peace, with 653 sisters and 523 associates, will serve in 38 states, and in Honduras, New Zealand, Nigeria, Peru, Puerto Rico, Tanzania, and Vietnam. This also means that Dominican Academy is now run by the congregation, Dominican Sisters of the Peace, as St.

Mary of the Springs is one of the seven congregations that united to form this new congregation. Rest assured that D.A. is still in good hands with those who are dedicated to the Dominican Order. This brings us back to Sr. Margaret. Originally hailing from Brooklyn, New York, Sr. Margaret was one of four sisters who attended Dominican Academy. She was third to graduate after Sr. Catherine Ormond, C.S.J. in 1957 and Regina Ormond Fay in 1959 while

Summer 2009 |

youngest sister, Mary Ormond Madden, graduated in 1962. Regina Ormond Fay ’59 has since passed away. After graduating from Dominican Academy in 1960, Sr. Margaret went on to study at Marymount Manhattan College. In 1962, she joined the Dominican Sisters, St. Mary of the Springs. She was Prioress of that congregation from 1990 to 1996. From 1997 until 2007, she was the International Coordinator for Dominican Sisters International. In the past two years, she had been a consultant for a Catholic foundation targeting leadership among African Religious. She also has a background in theology with an S.T.L. from the Angelicum University in Rome. Her past ministries include formation and high school teaching.

Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa. She said, “I’ll miss my African sisters very much but I hope to keep their example of faith and peace close to my heart.” Her biggest challenge, she believes, will be to nurture her African soul in a United States context. She is confident in fulfilling her obligations as Prioress, though, as she will be working alongside four women who have all been Prioresses of other congregations in their lifetimes and have much experience and wisdom to share. She also is stimulated by the Chapter Commitments approved by the delegates at their recent Chapter, which read:

Her wealth of previous experience, obvious fervor for service work and dedication to the Order led her fellow sisters to nudge her to put her name in for a leadership position when the Sisters of Peace formed. Listening not to her own wants, but instead to the call of her sisters, she was willing to leave her name in the selection process. Letters of endorsement followed, as did prayer and contemplation, and she was officially nominated along with 12 others. After more prayer and reflection, as well as a good night’s sleep, Sr. Margaret was officially elected as Prioress and humbly accepted the calling.

• Study, contemplate, and preach

With every new turn in life comes the excitement of new opportunities as well as the anxiety of inevitable challenges. As Prioress, Sr. Margaret will officially move to Columbus, Ohio, where she will be working in the administrative offices of the congregation. Due to her new position, she terminated her contract as a consultant for religious women in Africa - specifically Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania,

“Radically open to ongoing conversion into the peace of Christ, we commit ourselves to be women of peace who:

God’s revelation discovered in the unfolding mystery of creation and in Sacred Scripture.

• Create environments of peace by promoting non-violence, unity in diversity, and reconciliation among ourselves, the Church and others.

• Promote justice through solidarity with those who are marginalized, especially women and children, and work with others to identify and transform oppressive systems.

• Create

welcoming communities, inviting others to join us as vowed members, associates, volunteers, and partners in our mission to be the Holy Preaching.”

One of Sr. Margaret’s primary roles is to unite the members as true preachers of peace, as the congregational name suggests. The seven combined congregations have roots from all over

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the globe, including Slovakia, Ireland, Germany, and America. Working with these varied backgrounds, Sr. Margaret will discover what is essential about all of their lives, and how they can integrate their cultures into this new, unified congregation. She will also work to create welcoming communities, so that others may join the congregation. She believes there is a hunger for the Gospel, and that people want to live lives that reflect this Gospel. It is hoped that the Church will uphold its Catholic ideals and will allow for others to discover their calling to preach the Gospel, just like Sr. Margaret did in the 1960’s. In today’s world, though, this proves to be a challenge, but the congregation will be ready, as it has appointed two vocation directors, with the promise of a third. Sr. Margaret will officially embark on this new journey on August 8, 2009, which also happens to be the feast of St. Dominic. While she isn’t busy making a difference in the world with her fellow Sisters of Peace, she’ll read, exercise, and visit with family and friends, most especially her brother, sister-in-law and niece and nephew, who just so happen to also live in Ohio! With support all the way from Africa to Columbus, Ohio to right here at East 68th Street, Sr. Margaret will surely be inspired – and inspiring – as the Dominican Sisters of Peace unite to preach with one voice. It could be said that Sr. Margaret is truly following the well-known Gandhi quote: “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” May she and all the Dominican Sisters of Peace, with their strength in numbers, bring along a peaceful change in this ever-changing, chaotic world of ours.

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KATHLEEN MAHER FOLEY, M.D., ’61 HONORED; NEARLY $60,000 RAISED FOR SCHOLARSHIP FUND The 2009 Board of Trustees’ Reception & Silent Auction On Thursday, April 23, 2009, the Board of Trustees held its annual Cocktail Reception at a new venue, the Americas Society, just down the block from that familiar townhouse at 44 East 68th Street. Since 2002, The Board of Trustees has held this event to honor extraordinary friends of Dominican Academy as well as fund the Board of Trustees’ Scholarship. This scholarship is awarded to an outstanding freshman for her four years of study. The most recent recipient of this scholarship is Jessica Lavery, Class of 2012. This year’s reception honored an extraordinary D.A. alumna, whom you might recall reading about in the winter issue of Veritas: Kathleen Maher Foley, M.D., ’61. Kathy wears many hats: Attending Neurologist in the Pain and Palliative Care Service at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, Professor of Neurology, Neuroscience, and Clinical Pharmacology at Weill Medical College of Cornell University and Medical Director of the International Palliative Care Initiative of the Open Society Institute. She is internationally recognized as a leading authority in the assessment and treatment of cancer pain – and she is one of D.A.’s many stellar graduates. Classmate, friend and past honoree, Kathleen Murnion, ’61 gave a moving speech to introduce Kathleen Maher Foley. An excerpt is below: “Indeed she has many titles … Doctor, professor, writer, researcher as well as wife, mom, grandmother, sister and so on … But there are two I’d like to highlight this evening. For one, Kathy is an ADG … or as it is formally known, an All Dominican Girl… for the class of 1961. And is she ever! The award is presented every year to the graduating student who excels in integrity and generosity and best exemplifies the spirit of D.A. Kathy was and is all those things. A woman of integrity who combines intelligence, compassion and vision. This is

the woman who as a teenager signed my senior yearbook with the challenge, “Remember, you can change the world!” Fortunately, she took her own advice, for surely Kathy has left her mark on this world both in relieving her own patients from the brutal tyranny of cancer pain, and also by effecting systemic change in the care of millions of patients across the globe…And her second title, aside

from ADG? Kathy… just plain Kathy, the essence of generosity. Her professional talent is well matched with her generosity of time and treasure, as D.A. knows well. She is just Kathy… who is never too busy to return a phone call whether from a friend in need or from George Soros when he calls Nairobi or Bulgaria or Japan, wherever Kathy’s work takes her as director of his “Project on Death

Top row, L to R: Anthony Mirti, Jacqueline Cosgrove Morriss, ’79, John Caffrey, Michael Burgio, John O’Toole, Philip Judge, S.J., Donna Golia, Esq., ‘88; Bottom row, L to R: Suzanne Musho, ’86, Sister Joan Franks, O.P., ’59 and Briana Pigott, ‘08

We thank our generous donors and attendees for giving the greatest gift of all: an education. 2009 BOARD OF TRUSTEES Jacqueline Cosgrove Morriss, ’79, Chair

Anthony Mirti

Philip Judge, S.J., Vice-Chair

Suzanne Musho, ‘86

Michael A. Burgio

Valerie Noone, O.P.

John J. Caffrey

Ann Downey O’Brien, ‘76

Joanne Caniglia, O.P.

John P. O’Toole

Laura McDermott Dumbach, ’80

Patricia Thomas, O.P.

Donna Golia, Esq., ‘88

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in America.” Just Kathy … in her straightforward expert advice, or for that “just right” referral to a colleague, or for the assurance of her compassionate support, the soft word, the shared tear. Whether they are great or powerful or the small and the dear, Kathy is consistent in her integrity and her generosity and in exemplifying the spirit of D.A. Yes, indeed, a true ADG!”

of my career that looked to observers as planned, organized, focused and even visionary. In fact, it was challenging, chaotic, uncertain, at times frustrating and mostly lucky… So thank you D.A. for the award, but most importantly, thank you for the gift of an education and the opportunity to grow and learn and share my knowledge and talents with others.”

Kathleen Maher Foley, humble as ever, then gave her own speech, thanking Dominican Academy and sharing her journey after D.A. with a very captivated audience:

The auction featured great opportunities to the highest bidder, like cocktails on the Dominican Academy rooftop, a private art tour at the MET, various pieces of artwork, golf outings, wine baskets, tickets to popular sporting events and Broadway shows, and dining certificates. Please consider supporting this event next year.

Doreen Lobelle, ’00, Associate Director of Communications & Special Events with Alumnae Association President, Patricia Hillman Pender, ‘85

Honoree Kathleen Maher Foley (4th from left) celebrates with her 1961 classmates: L to R: Kathleen Walsh Murnion, Anne Morris Wilding, Judy Murphy Norton, Kathleen Quinn Murray, Kathleen Heaney Hilpl, Ellen McNamara Funck & Nancy Wagner LaValle.

Board of Trustees Scholarship recipients Jennifer Stewart ’10, Jessica Lavery ’12 and Amanda Bakowski ’10

Board of Trustees’ Reception Photo Credit: Jo Ann Schilling Fannon, ‘68

“As you know, I went to D.A. because that is where my sisters Joanne and Pat had gone, and in fact, all five of my sisters graduated from D.A. My father would have loved to be here tonight to accept his award for helping us get into D.A. I recently was trying to organize a drawer full of old papers and came across my D.A. report cards. Do not ask me why I saved them but they were revealing and humbling and hopefully consoling to the students here tonight. I was a good student but not first in my class. Some of my classmates here tonight had better grades and more accomplishments than I did as a D.A. student. I did receive the All Dominican Girl award at graduation but I think it was a kind gesture because I seemed to always come in second for the academic awards. I went to St. John’s University on a scholarship and just as I was starting there, Sister Timothy, our math teacher at D.A., asked me what I was going to major in. I said I thought history, as I was always so inspired by Mrs. Walsh’s teaching … or I said, I might be a nurse. Sister Timothy said, well, why don’t you become a doctor? I thought, well, she might think I was capable of it. The rest of it is history, as you know! … Dominican gave me a wonderful gift of an education that helped me survive and even thrive in college and graduate school and the gift of wonderful friends who I still see and are here tonight. When I recently had to write a piece on being a pioneer in pain research, it made me reflect on the trajectory

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THE SIGNIFICANCE OF SERVICE By Katie Leo When I arrived at Fairfield University nine years ago, I became involved in service for a somewhat selfish reason, to meet other freshmen like myself. However, I had no idea that this small decision would change the course of my life as it did. My service experiences brought me to the beautiful but struggling countries of Ecuador and Haiti, and to many gritty inner cities throughout this country. I witnessed the barriers poverty poses to many, and I became aware of some of the privileges I had until then taken for granted. After college, I spent a year in Spokane, WA with the Jesuit Volunteer Corps, where I worked as a case manager at a shelter for women and children. I worked alongside strong women in tough situations. I was able to share my gifts and I received amazing gifts in return. I cannot put into words how integral these early experiences were in my life, and how they shaped me into the woman I am today. While I had always been taught the values of service, compassion, and forgiveness – it was through service that these values became real for me. I continue to receive these gifts as the Service Coordinator at Dominican Academy. While chaperoning trips to Camden, NJ and Duran, Ecuador along with hosting local service days cleaning parks and serving hot meals, I have been blessed with seeing our students give of themselves freely to others. I witness the metamorphosis each student goes through, from our very first fundraising meeting to follow-up meetings once we return. The change is nothing short of astounding. Each night on trips to Camden and Ecuador, we reflect on the gifts and challenges of each day. Our students speak with maturity beyond their years as they grapple with the problems of structural injustice, the effects of racism, the oppression of women and their role in combating these problems. Service gives students an insight into the

lives of others and calls them to advocate for change.

through Jackie’s selflessness and her care and concern for others.

Each time I chaperone one of these trips I feel like I am back in my freshmen year of college, acting selfishly because I feel as if I am receiving more than I am giving. During this summer’s trip to Ecuador at the Rostro de Cristo (Face of Christ) program, I watched senior Jackie Hogan buy a handmade gift, regardless of the quality, from each and every person at a hospital for those with Hansen’s disease. When I asked her why she did this she responded that she didn’t want anyone to feel left out or hurt. The last night of our trip we were asked, “Where have you seen the face of Christ this week?” I knew immediately that my answer was Jackie. God’s love was delivered to us

At Dominican Academy, we try our best to defray the cost of these trips by holding bake sales and by selling sweatshop-free t-shirts or fair trade chocolate. However, even with our best efforts these trips can be expensive and for some, cost-prohibitive. While a trip to Camden is $250 and a trip to Ecuador is $1,200, the ability to change the lives of both our girls and the people they serve is truly priceless. Help our D.A. girls grow into women for others. Please consider donating your time as a chaperone or sponsoring a student on one of these life-changing trips. If you would like more information, please contact me at [email protected]

“While I had always been taught the values of service, compassion, and forgiveness – it was through service that these values became real for me.”

Pictured Above: Katie Leo, along with nine D.A. students, traveled to Duran, Ecuador for a service trip in 2008.

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UPDATES FROM THE ALUMNAE ASSOCIATION The Alumnae Association had a productive year and was happy to see increased attendance at our monthly meetings. The meetings are a great place to express your views, share thoughts on how the association can better serve you and help plan new and returning events. The meetings are usually on the 2nd or 3rd Monday of the month at 6:00 PM at the school. We always send out email meeting reminders to the class reps and put up meeting notices on the D.A. website so that you know when we’re meeting! We are currently in need of class representatives for the following years: 1944, 1945, 1946, 1947, 1950, 1951, 1952, 1962, 1972, 1981 and 1988. Reps are an informational conduit for their class. We send you the minutes of our monthly meetings and ask you

to help keep class lists updated and to assist the development office during your reunion year. Please consider becoming a rep with another classmate or two – the more, the merrier! If you are interested, please contact Tricia Pender at [email protected]. Career Day was a big success. Thanks again to all sixteen of our alumnae who participated. We welcomed volunteers from the classes of 1963 through 2000. Career Day is a wonderful opportunity for alumnae to share their work experiences with the junior class and to provide them with career direction. The Alumnae Association is also looking to partner with the religion department to include alumnae with their service activities. There are two activities currently planned: trip to Ecuador on

2/14-2/21 and an “urban plunge” trip to Camden, New Jersey. We are very excited about this activity and hope to provide more opportunities, like a service activity in NYC, in which students and alumnae can interact. Upcoming dates to keep in mind: Rooftop Reconnection – September 25th All Class Reunion (years ending in “4” or “9”) – October 24th Welcome Back for ’09, ’08, ’07 & ‘06 – December 23rd Thank you for all your support this year and look forward to seeing you at some of our events. — Patricia Pender, ’85, President, Ellen Geis, ’85, Vice President & Antoinette Mirsberger Freeman, ’99, Secretary

OUR BELOVED FRIEND, COLLEAGUE AND TEACHER, M A R J O R I E R E N D E , S T I L L N E E D S B L O O D & P L AT E L E T S Update: From January 28th until June 3rd, there have been 68 blood donors for Marjorie Rende. Since her treatment requires frequent blood transfusions, donations of blood are still most welcome at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. She is slowly recovering after her successful bone marrow transplant and expects to return to D.A. in the fall to continue teaching. Read below for details on how to donate in her name! Following Marjorie’s stem cell transplant, her treatment requires regular blood and platelet transfusions. Your donation of blood and/or platelets would be much appreciated! Donations not used by Marjorie will be released for use by other patients, most of whom are children. Designated donations for Marjorie must be made in the Blood Donor Room of Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Please visit www.mskcc.org/blooddonations for complete information about donor eligibility and the donation process for blood or platelets. Appointments are necessary and all blood types are acceptable. To schedule an appointment that is convenient for you, please call: Mary Thomas: 212-639-3335 / [email protected] Dominican Academy is deeply grateful for your help. Please continue to keep Marjorie in your prayers.

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NOT YOUR ORDINARY FEBRUARY WINTER BREAK By Katie Leo Below you will find reflections from the Dominican Academy students who came with me on our annual Camden Service Trip to the Romero Center this past February. It is a privilege to be able to chaperone these trips, to be able to connect with students on a different level, and to see the remarkable changes our students go through as they let the people of Camden into their hearts. Our hope is that some of the reflections included here will bring about a change in you too. Perhaps it will help break down stereotypes of Camden, a city that to outsiders may appear dangerous, but upon a closer glance is a city filled with dedicated people working together to bring about change. Or maybe it will change your perception of service, so that you many recognize the importance of the ministry of presence, as our students did.

Camden that we had the good fortune of meeting. May we all continue to work for change. In the words of Dorothy Day, “We can throw our pebble in the pond and be confident that its ever-widening circle will reach around the world.” The students who traveled with me on this trip were: Emilia Twomey ’10, Natalia Lopresti ’10, Jennifer Stewart ’10, Marie Badagliacca ’09, Jacqueline Hogan ’09, Nicole Casey ’09, Kimberly Suarez ‘09, Sandra Ianniello ’09, and Lindsey Feldman ’09.

I would like to close by thanking all those in the city of

Editor’s Note: Below, you will find six excerpts from reflections written by students who traveled to Camden. Due to space constraints, we could not include all the reflections that these inspired young women wrote upon their return from Camden – but rest assured, all came out of Camden, NJ with life changing experiences and a better understanding of themselves and the world surrounding them.

NATALIA LOPRESTI ‘10

NICOLE CASEY ‘09

After arriving at the Romero Center, I realized that this trip would be more than I ever could have dreamed. The staff was so welcoming and the Romero Center itself had an upbeat and homey feel to it. The only thing more uplifting than the Romero Center and the people there was the service itself. Although I enjoyed every day of service, my first day in Camden was by far the most memorable. I went to a place called Abigail House, a nursing home and rehabilitation center. It was at Abigail House that I met a man named Bill Fergison, or “Fergie” as the nurses called him. I spent the entire morning with Bill. The nurses brought around photocopies of pictures from coloring books and crayons so that the patients could color. Bill decided he was going to teach me how to evaluate a picture, determine what colors to use, and create a beautiful, colored masterpiece. In the many hours I spent coloring and talking with Bill, I realized that not only was I brightening his day by spending time with him, but he was impacting my life as well. I never expected something as simple as coloring to affect me in such a life changing way. I learned a lot from Bill and my time spent with him will never be forgotten.

This past summer I was lucky enough to travel to Duran, Ecuador with the organization ‘Rostro de Cristo’ (‘The Face of Christ’). Ever since my time in there, I have developed a passion for service and helping others, and have continued to seek out experiences that enable me to take part in such activities.

MARIE BADAGLIACCA ‘09 During my time in Camden, I learned what the meaning of the ministry of presence is all about. The worksites I went to, Abigail House and Genesis House, were both places where we volunteered by simply sitting and talking to the patients. I learned so many new things about all these people that I would not have expected or known by doing actual work at the nursing homes. Everyone was so appreciative that we were chatting with them because most of these people do not get regular visitors. By my being present, I made them happy. It was a very humbling experience and it opened my eyes and heart to the fact that you do not necessarily need build a house or paint a school to make a difference in someone’s life. The little things are what matter the most and hopefully, we will all be able to take a step back from our busy lives once in a while and to open up to someone. You do not know the impact you have until you actually witness it.

During my time in Camden, I was able to visit different service sites as well as participate in various activities that enabled me to see the importance of our trip. One day we took part in an activity where we simulated what it was like to live on welfare. We were split into families of four and each given three dollars. With a total of 12 dollars, each ‘family’ was then sent off to the local grocery store to buy food for the follow day’s meals. This activity was a challenging one, but helped to connect us with the realities we were surrounded by in Camden. It offered us a time to reflect on what we were each given, and what others aren’t lucky enough to have. Though I had learned so much from the people of Ecuador, in Camden I was able to realize much more. Whether singing and cleaning out the closets of patients at Ingles House (a clinic devoted solely to the care of those who were wheelchair bound), or setting up for a ‘beach party’ at the Bethesda Project (an organization that works to affirm the dignity of the impoverished and homeless by providing well-maintained, safe, comfortable homes and communal spaces, as well as guidance and care for these individuals), I was able to truly understand the power of the ‘gift of presence.’ From these people I have learned to live my life to the fullest, with faith and God as my constant companion. Perhaps most importantly however, is that I have learned that we must “Aspire not to have more, but to learn more.” (Oscar Romero)

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D.A. girls traveled to Camden, NJ over winter break with religion teacher and campus minister, Katie Leo (far right) KIMBERLY SUAREZ ‘09

JACQUELINE HOGAN ‘09

During my time in Camden I met many people and made new friends. On my second day I chose to go to Mana, where we would be packing and delivering food to the homebound. That day I learned how to step out of my comfort zone. On our way to make a delivery, we got lost. I’m usually never the person to ask people for directions; instead I usually let others do the talking. However, that day I was motivated to deliver our package because I knew a person who was truly in need depended on it. Instead of letting others do the talking, I stepped out of my comfort zone and went from person to person asking for directions. Never in my life would I have even imagined that I would go up to complete strangers on the street. By the end of the day, we delivered everything and I was very grateful that I had gotten the courage to step out of my comfort zone to help those truly in need.

The experience that most impacted me while I was in Camden was spending time at the drop-in homeless shelter, New Visions. Being that I am a New Yorker, I was already used to seeing the homeless. Unfortunately, seeing homeless people had become commonplace to me. I rarely stopped to consider their devastating situation, and instead had learned to accept them as just another aspect of city life. However, spending the day at New Visions led me to truly recognize the “person” aspect of the term “homeless person.” Not only was I given the opportunity to hear peoples’ stories and get a true perspective of what it means to be homeless, I learned a remarkable lessonthat homeless people are the same as everyone else. As I played checkers and conversed with some of the people at the shelter, I stopped thinking of them as homeless people that were in some way different than me, and started thinking of them as my new friends. I went to Camden with an almost presumptuous attitude, only considering the good things that I could bring to the people of Camden. I left as a more learned, humble, and grateful person, with a greater understanding of what it means to live in solidarity with the poor.

For my last work site I decided to go to the Abigail House, which was another hospital for the elderly. One woman named Flo and I made a connection from the start. She had a similar sarcastic sense of humor like I do, and we had a blast talking with each other. However, I got emotional when she told me stories about her house being taken away and her kids leaving her. I admired her strength to overcome so many difficulties in her life. With her witty, joyful character a person would never guess that she has faced so much adversity throughout her life. As in Genesis, I saw that what many of the patients longed for was company. Even though I was not helping them physically, I realized that I was helping them emotionally. My presence made them see that there are people in the world who care about them and that they are not forgotten or alone.

SANDRA IANNIELLO, ‘09 To write a reflection on every aspect of the Camden Service Trip would take pages, let alone days. So I decided to tell you about the most special place I visited in Camden, and the most life changing part of the trip. This place was Inglis House, a wheelchair community for nearly 300 residents, all of who were physically handicapped. After meeting a few of the residents of Inglis House, I attended a SPICE group. Two therapists led the group to help release creative energy. We talked about

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current events and even played a game about songs of the 90’s. One old man in particular, Gill, was so great at this game! He appeared to be in a deep sleep until you mentioned one of his favorite songs. Then he’d pop his head up and tell you the name and the artist. We also met Sandy, a woman so kind and soft-spoken. She wore two long braids in her hair and a smile across her face. She reminded me so much of my grandmother, a woman I never had the chance to meet. There was something about Sandy, and though she didn’t speak very often, sitting side by side with her was enough. I was particularly impressed with one woman who would end up changing me forever. Her name was Cheryl and she wore a Phillies baseball cap wherever she went. She knew everything and anything about the team. We had a long conversation and by the time I knew it, it was time for her to return to her room, but I knew that wouldn’t be the last time I would talk to her. Lunch came and I couldn’t shove down my salad fast enough only to go back and talk with more people. Harold was a tiny, grey haired, soft-spoken man, whose eyes lit up and sound of the knock on the door. Harold was begging for someone to listen. And even though Harold had no kids of his own, I have never seen a wall filled with so many pictures. He had stories about each and every one of his nieces, nephews, and friends’ children. He couldn’t say enough about them. I began to tear up because I was frustrated. It was obvious the one thing this man wanted in life was children and he couldn’t have them. I didn’t want to cry in front of him so I began looking around the room intently to clear the tears. It was very difficult to leave Inglis house that day. The next day I signed up for the same site again. I felt bad taking up the spot but there was no way I could go anywhere else, I wasn’t done with the friends I had made there and I desperately wanted to spend more time with them.

I eagerly returned to Inglis House and attended another SPICE group where I met Sandy again. I played a game of Scrabble with the residents, who by the way get very intense during their games of Scrabble! Soon enough it was time for lunch again. This time I wouldn’t make the same mistake as the day before. I ate my brown bag lunch in 4 minutes. And then I heard it. “My buddy came back to see me again!” It was the sound of Cheryl’s voice. I turned around to see Cheryl’s smiling face. She begged me to come see her room, and I happily agreed. We reached Cheryl’s room, her door covered in Phillies articles, banners, and paraphernalia. Then she opened the door and I found myself in a Phillies, Elvis and cat paradise. There were pictures of all of her cats in the coolest cat shaped frame. Elvis t-shirts and dolls and Phillies caps in all different colors surrounded the room. And then she brought up her family, and before I knew it I found myself doing the same thing I did in Harold’s room looking around the room intently to make the tears leave. She told us about how her family lives in Florida and how she wished she could be with them lying on the beach. All the while, she kept a happy smile on her face assuring me that her bed was just like a beach, to her anyway. She said to me “I know you don’t see sand, but I pretend this is a beach and then it is!” A few weeks after returning from Camden I couldn’t help crying each night before bed, but it wasn’t a sad cry. These were the moments when I found myself reflecting on Camden the most. When I was crying, I felt like I really could bring myself back to Inglis House and be reminded of all I learned through this trip and through Ms. Leo and the girls. I went on this trip eager and excited to learn new things, be inspired, and make a difference, but I came home with so many new friends, role models, 9 special new ties, and a lifetime of knowledge and experience, all of which hold a special place in my heart always and forever. Thank you again to Ms. Leo, Meg, Kevin, Holly, and Teresa and last but not least, Cheryl!

THE VERITAS BULLETIN BOARD Does Your Grad Year End in “4” or “9”? Mark your calendars – it’s your reunion year! On Saturday, October 24, from 12:00-4:00 PM, all those who graduated in years ending in “4” or “9” will come together at D.A. for Mass, lunch and reminiscing! This reunion includes Classes of 2004, 1999, 1994, 1989, 1984, 1979, 1974, 1969 and 1964! By now, you should have received a “Save the Date” postcard. If you have not, please let us know at [email protected]. Start contacting your classmates now about this event – it’s never too early to start planning. Make sure this becomes a memorable afternoon for you and your friends!

We’re on Facebook! In keeping with the times, D.A. has joined Facebook! If you have a Facebook account, you can become a fan of Dominican Academy. Just search for “Dominican Academy” and click Become A Fan. You’ll see updates from D.A. in your news feed, and you’ll be kept up-to-date on all of our meetings and events. How easy is that? See you on Facebook!

In an effort to go green and minimize expenses, we will send out e-mails from time to time to keep you updated on important Dominican Academy announcements. To ensure that you receive our e-mails, please add [email protected] and [email protected] to your e-mail address list. This will make sure that our message gets to you! If you want to give us an updated e-mail address, or want to be removed from our e-mail list, you can let us know at [email protected]. Thank you!

Regional Alumnae Gatherings – Can you host a get-together at your home? As part of a new initiative to keep alums engaged everywhere, we are beginning to host alumnae gatherings outside of D.A.! Presently, we are looking to start in the five boroughs and in the tri-state area. If you would be willing to host a casual event at your home for alumnae that live near you, contact us at alumnae@ dominicanacademy.org or 212-744-0195 and we’ll give you more details.

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NEITHER CLOUDY SKIES NOR HEAVY RAIN COULD DAMPEN THE MOOD AT THIS YEAR’S LUNCHEON The Mother-Daughter Luncheon 2009 I, like every other D.A. gal, look forward to the luncheon every year – I even bought a new dress just for the occasion! It’s a day where all D.A. sisters, whether incoming freshmen, current students or alumnae, gather together with moms, aunts, grandmothers, and other female relatives for a delightful lunch at Tavern on the Green. This year, the sky was full of clouds and the rain came down in buckets, but that didn’t ruin our good time inside! The cocktail hour was lively and spirited, full of delicious hors d’œuvres, friendly socializing, and girls scrambling to put their raffle tickets into the baskets of their choice. It was a little cramped, but going to school in a townhouse on East 68th Street taught us all how to deal with small spaces. As usual, we had over a hundred gorgeous baskets full of different kinds of knick-knacks and items, including jewelry, movies, children’s games and perfume. This year, every homeroom in the school designed and donated their own themed baskets. For example, Homeroom 7 put together a fair trade basket and Homeroom 8 made a fun, colorful candy basket. The silent auction items included tickets to see In the Heights on Broadway (with backstage passes!), restaurant gift certificates, an autographed Sex and the City movie book, and other fabulous prizes. We also had our usual grand prize for the raffle: a Rolex watch, which was modeled by fellow junior, Christiana Vasilas.

By Danielle Romano ‘10 Tables this year were decorated with balloons – but not just any balloons! Each group of balloons represented the color of each class year portrayed during “Color Wars”, a school event that happens during Spirit Week. Due to the rain, Mother-Daughter portraits were taken inside the restaurant, using a beautiful garden setting as the backdrop. The lunch was scrumptious as usual (the pasta is my personal favorite!), and juniors and sophomores aided in handing out the prizes from the raffle and auction. The excitement really comes when waiting to hear your number and name called for a prize– and cheering for friends who win! My family kept up our usual tradition, winning a prize (a Halloween basket this year) for the fourth time in a row! At the end of the luncheon, we said a heartfelt goodbye and thanks to our current principal and assistant principal, Sr. Joan Franks and Sr. Valerie Shaul, and welcomed next year’s principal, Sr. Barbara Kane. 2009’s Mother-Daughter luncheon was one of the best yet. As Sylvia Voirol once said, “Rainbows apologize for angry skies.” It may have been pouring outside, but the sun was certainly shining inside. A big thanks to all those who helped make this day so memorable. We all can’t wait until next year!

Picture perfect: Class of 2010’s Maggie Gander, Christiana Vasilas, Lauren Femia, Julia Egler and Britny Auletti pose with their mothers at the annual Mother-Daughter Luncheon.

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THE LAUGHS, THE “REMEMBER WHEN’S”, AND THE SINGING! The Class of 1959 Reunion Weekend Instead of the typical autumn reunion, the class of 1959 opted for a change – a springtime 50th year reunion! With temperatures reaching a high of 92° the weekend of April 25th and 26th, the 50th year class had an unseasonably scorching hot reunion! Monica Lennon Golden, one of ‘59’s Class Reps, was proud to mention that out of 30 known and living alumnae, only 6 didn’t show – almost 80% attendance. As a group, a full 90% of this class donated more than $20,000 in honor of their own classmate, Sister Joan Franks, O.P., our now former Principal. The Class of ‘59 first enjoyed a cocktail reception on D.A.’s rooftop on the evening of the 25th. After a tour of their alma mater (which included some discoveries!) they kept the

party going at Isle of Capri, the delightful restaurant owned by D.A.’s own Jane Lamanna D’Agostino, ’61. On the 26th, the annual Golden Alumnae Lunch was held for all those who have already celebrated their 50th reunion. The class of ’59 showed in large numbers, with a few classmates from other years stopping by as well. Our guests attended Mass in the Chapel and enjoyed a fine lunch in the Auditorium afterwards. Despite the heat, the class of ’59 enjoyed the last few hours of their reunion, with many having to catch flights back out to their home states. The following are reunion reflections from two 1959 alumnae – read on to get the true details of this magical reunion weekend!

SUSAN FARRELL TIFFANY As I walked through those magnificent double doors on the afternoon of June 25th, I felt as if I had been transported back in time to the late 1950’s; except this time I was not wearing a slate blue uniform, carrying an armload of books, and Sister Mary Joseph was not standing guard to check on the condition of everyone’s uniform. Instead, Sister Joan Franks, principal of Dominican Academy and a member of the class of ‘59, was there to welcome us home. Soon my fellow classmates began to arrive, and we greeted one another with squeals and hugs and remarks such as “You haven’t changed a bit.” To be truthful, although the name tags with our senior yearbook pictures on them were a nice touch, I think we all would have recognized each and everyone of our classmates without them. It actually seemed as if time had stood still. The next few hours were spent on the roof where we caught up on the past fifty years and reminisced about the wonderful times we had shared at Dominican Academy. You could hear many queries of “Do you remember when...?” throughout the afternoon. The refreshments were good, but the memories were even better. We even sang the school song. Sue Hopkins Holmes had brought her graduation dress, which was prominently displayed for the duration of the afternoon. Before we left the academy, we posed for a group photo on the front staircase. Monica Lennon Golden arranged us in the same spots we had occupied in our original graduation picture.

The Class of 1959 gathered for a class photo just like they did 50 years ago!

Class of 1959’s Helen Kieran, O.P., Susan Heaney Antinori, Judy Garcia Lazar, Catherine McGaheran Murdoch and Susan Hopkins Holmes.

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After the cocktail party, we moved on to The Isle of Capri Restaurant, owned by Jane Lamanna D’Agostino, class of ‘61, where we were treated like royalty. The staff could not do enough for us. Fortunately for the other patrons of the restaurant, we were seated in a private dining room. I think our constant laughter and non-stop talking as we shared more memories might have been a bit distracting for the other diners. I don’t think anyone wanted that night to end. The following morning we returned to D.A. for an 11 AM Mass in the Chapel. Monica Lennon Golden and Cathie Moore Sclafani led us in song, accompanied by Pamela Keating on guitar. Pam also sang a song she had composed. The composition was so spiritually and emotionally stirring that Father Jordan McConway, the celebrant of the liturgy, said that it made him teary-eyed. During the Mass we remembered and prayed for the deceased members of our class.

Class of 1959’s Susan Farrell Tiffany, Evelyn Hetzel Urbom, Gretchen LaPointe Jacobs, and Barbara Lea Cavanagh Holst.

After Mass, we were treated to a delicious lunch in the Auditorium. Once again we reminisced about the past, remembering all the times we had danced in this very room to tunes such as “Sha- boom, Sha-boom” during lunchtime recreation. The entire weekend was a huge success thanks to the efforts of Monica Lennon Golden, Sue Heaney Antinori, Joanne Milo Salaverry and Sister Joan Franks. Joan’s presence will be sorely missed when she leaves D.A. As I reluctantly left 44 East 68th Street that sunny Sunday afternoon, I realized that Thomas Wolfe was wrong when he said, “You can’t go home again.”

PATRICIA SWEENEY GEELAN It seemed like only yesterday; except this time we entered through the ornate main doors. There in the lobby we were greeted by the smiling faces of our former classmates, the graduating class of 1959 from Dominican Academy. Fifty years....where had the time gone? Squeals of delight, hugs, kisses, cries of “you look wonderful” filled the hollowed halls. We were back home at the school we had all loved and remembered so fondly. At a cocktail party on the roof, everyone had a chance to mingle and attempt to catch up. Of course we heard quite a few, “Remember when we....”, and “ One time Sister...”, and “Whatever happened to?” We sadly remembered our five deceased classmates and made a group phone call to Josephine Kelly, one of our classmates who was unable to attend because of illness.

Class of 1959’s Susan Heaney Antinori, Judy Garcia Lazar, Marianne Scialabba Mongello, Julia McNamara enjoy the rooftop with 1960 alumna Margaret Mary Starrs Guiry-Kilray (top right). Their actual graduation dress from 1959 hangs in the background!

And of course we sang! From the D.A. school song to a few of our favorite 50’s tunes, we turned the clock back. A wonderful highlight was our very talented Pam Keating, who played guitar and sang several of her very own songs to a very appreciative audience. Speaking of appreciation, everyone is so grateful to Monica Lennon Golden, Joanne Milo Salaverry, and Sue Heaney Antinori for arranging our reunion. Thank you, ladies!

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Alum Notes 1948 Marie Spellman Sherry is still doing her volunteer work at Special Surgery with a Dominican sister, Sr. Margaret. She is also going to Ireland again this July – she always enjoys seeing her relatives in Galway! 1949 Eleanor Lyons celebrated a mini-reunion in Seabrook, South Carolina with family and fellow classmates. In attendance at this mini reunion were Gregg Karrh, Laura Lyons Karrh ’82, Joe and Eleanor Lyons and Chris and Barbara Buckley Cummins ’49. 1950 The lifelong friendship that had begun at Dominican some 50+ years ago was punctuated last summer when Cathie Healy Abbot who had traveled to Long Island for a wedding, managed a few hours visit with Mary Alyce Farrell Fields in her new home out on the East End. Mary Alyce’s son Randall, also visiting from Seattle, WA joined in the delight of those precious moments as the old friends “caught up.” Later in the summer, Mary Alyce wrote to us about another delightful D.A. reunion of sorts: “On a tour,sponsored by the retirement village in which I now live, headed for Canada and St Anne de Beaupre near Quebec, a “sister” tourist asked how “pamplemous” translated and I, with those wonderful D.A. years of French replied, “grapefruit” which started a conversation which led to the happy connection we share. Her name is Margaret (Peg) Nagle ’55! Of course, we giggled through Canada, shared a “merveilleux” luncheon at the Chateau Frontenac and the unique, splendid, joyous memories of our beloved Academy. We now look forward to adding to our new treasure with gettogethers here at home! By the way, Peg looks gorgeous (another traveler complimented her) and has a sense of humor without compare. She also wrote a letter for her grandson in French. Thank you Sr. Mary Clare and Sr. Florita for those skills! Also, thanks to Sister Joan Franks ‘59 for the grace notes of her presence at DA these last few years. She carrried the spirit of Dominican so well, with her welcoming and farewelling and all the moments in between...such a gracious lady! 1954 Catherine Dinehart is a volunteer at English in Action, helping newcomers to the USA adjust to a new culture and language. English in Action, a program of The English-Speaking Union of the United States, matches newly arrived immigrants, international students, visitors and others with American volunteers for one-onone conversation practice.

Eleanor Lyons ’49 & classmates celebrated a mini reunion! L to R: Gregg Karrh, Laura Lyons Karrh ’82, Joe and Eleanor Lyons ’49 and Chris and Barbara Buckley Cummins ’49.

1957 Patricia Sweeney Hayes and Pauline Maher Lang and their husbands went on an Elder Hostel Tour of Sedona and the Grand Canyon at the end of April 2009. 1958 Jeanne Glennon McAnaney and husband Ed, are proud to announce that their daughter, Katie of Cincinnati, Ohio, gave birth to Ciara Glennon Molinsky on June 23, 2009. This is grandchild #9 for Jeanne and Ed! 1959 Joanne Salaverry is pleased to announce the arrival of her second granddaughter, Emma Jean Salaverry, born on May 13, 2009 and weighing in at 7lbs, 8oz. 1960 Cecilia Fannon writes, “I only went to D.A. for a year, but my sister (Christine) graduated in 1960. She’s currently living with me and has in-home hospice but is not at the very end. She enjoys corresponding by e-mail with her college colleagues. It would be wonderful if any of her sisters at D.A. would get in touch with her. Her name is Christine Fannon and her address is [email protected].” 1961 Marilyn Jones Hospodar and her foursome won First Place in gross score at their Governor’s Club ‘Rally for the Cure’ event on May 19, 2009 in Chapel Hill, NC. Marilyn and her husband, Bob, moved to Chapel Hill two years ago and love that “southern part of heaven.” Carol Kelly Nemeth lives in Mishawaka , Indiana (next to South Bend and Notre Dame). Although she is now retired from the real estate business, her husband, Pete, is still a sitting judge. They are now enjoying the villa lifestyle which facilitates trips to a condo on Pensacola Beach, Florida. They have five kids and ten grandchildren. She would love to hear from classmates: [email protected]. 1963 Gloria Schenck Ghedini writes, “This July, I am returning to Brazil, for a working vacation. I will be with poor, sick children in Salvador and then have been invited to the home of my assistant’s parents in Fortaleza. My second son is getting married to a Chinese surgeon on October 16, 2009. Since they wanted a park wedding, I suggested Riverside Drive, by a tree planted in my late father’s memory. Thus, grandma will be doubly touched. Let us pray for no rain!”

Jeanne Glennon McAnaney ’58 (left) and husband, Ed, were in San Francisco, CA, and met up with classmate, Mary June Walsh Fox ‘58 (right).

Emma Jean Salaverry, granddaughter of Joanne Salaverry ’58, was born on May 13, 2009. Rosemary Lee Ryan writes, “I just came back from a wonderful European cruise. We visited ten ports including Istanbul and Ephesus, Turkey. I was thinking that I hadn’t even heard of Ephesus until St. Paul was mentioned. Remember St. Paul’s letter to the Ephesians? I actually walked in the area where he preached. We signed up for guided tours in Turkey but explored the other stops on our own. We were able to navigate easily with public transportation - trains, subways and vaporettos. Getting around independently was a great confidence builder and we saw a lot since we could go to the sites that really interested us and did not have to wait for others.” 1965 Ann Moran Berg writes, “This past January, I was appointed to serve as a member of the Board of Trustees for the Lane Libraries serving the cities of Fairfield, Hamilton, and Oxford as well as their surrounding communities. My husband Ron and I have lived in Southwestern Ohio for 35 years in Fairfield, just north of Cincinnati. Our son, Chris, is an associate professor at the University of West Georgia and our daughter, Susan, lives in Laramie, Wyoming and is a science editor for Holt McDougal, the textbook publisher. Right now, we are busily planning her September wedding in Laramie! Looking forward to seeing everyone at our 45th reunion in 2010!” 1969 Jennifer Calascibetta deAltamirano Canfield writes, “In the time since leaving Dominican, I founded a business that I ran with my father. I wrote real estate ads and contracts. I farmed and raised registered American Quarter Horses. Through my ventures I served clients from many professions including awardwinning celebrities, acclaimed writers, artists and other professionals. I was appointed to local governmental commissions, helped to write ordinances and eventually served as my township Supervisor. I fought for the rights of private ownership over eminent domain and helped save my valley from federal acquisition. We remain, to this day, a unique example of cooperation between landowners and the National Park Service protecting the waters of the free flowing, unspoiled Upper Delaware River. I have written Op/Ed pieces on related topics and, most recently, the discovery of the Marcellus Shale, its reservoirs of natural gas, and the effects that drilling will bring to the region. Being a cancer survivor at 49, I discovered strengths of which I was unaware. So, I undertook another journey. A search for new meaning led me back to where I started as the young girl who used to hide horse magazines under my Latin books in Sr. Mary Austine’s class. Not that I didn’t like Latin and Virgil did pay homage

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to the buried head of a warhorse in the temple… but that’s another story! I pursued my education as a trainer and went on to become an Equine Specialist Professional certified by the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association (EAGALA). It is now my privilege to interpret the body language of horses for mental health professionals who utilize experiential therapy in treatment of psychological disorders and behavioral issues. Through the non-profit organization of my sponsor, and through a coordinated effort, we are planning decompression camps for PTSD afflicted warriors. Now I will get to write lots of notes! To recount a myriad host of challenges met, lessons learned, regrets, mysteries and laughable outcomes would be way too consuming. But isn’t this the time in life when we are supposed to take stock if only we dare? And, I better not fail to mention my marriage to LeRoy Canfield whom I believe to be currently under consideration for sainthood. The situations I faced head-on, the times I savored a learning opportunity, the times I found myself committed to a cause, the times I tried to help right an injustice were the exact moments. I drew strength from the many lessons I learned at Dominican. Sadly, that for which I was “prepped” never happened. But the rest of the story certainly would have been a much different outcome if the foundation I received hadn’t been there for me to build upon. Please accept my deepest and sincerest thanks for the memories, the love of learning, the endless classroom discussions, the joy in the eyes and hearts of teachers who were unforgettable, the honor of feeling that I belonged, the respect for mankind and the wonderful friendships I cherish to this day. All of this and more, I owe to Dominican Academy. More knowledge would have been great, but wisdom gained from life’s lessons is priceless. Without Dominican, I’m sure I would have never recognized the difference.” Wendy C. Turgeon is currently an Associate Professor of Philosophy at St. Joseph’s College on Long Island and is chair of her department. 1974 Adria Elskus and her husband Larry LeBlanc (married in 2003) have been living in Old Town, ME (yes, where the canoes come from!) since 2004. Adria is an aquatic toxicologist (how pollutants affect fish health) and Larry is a chemist (he analyses those pollutants!). They work at the University of Maine in Orono. Larry has

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an ‘alternate life’ as a bluegrass/folk musician; Adria just dabbles in a little of this and that, but has recently developed a passion for Pilates, a wonderful exercise program great for people of all ages and conditions (there are 72-year-old women in her class!). If anyone is ever in the area, drop by! They love visitors and can show you some nice walking trails and hikes and boating opportunities. Maria Ruiz de Zarate Miranda is the proud mother of two sons: 28-year-old Tony, who graduated from Nova Southeastern University earning his PhD in Clinical Psychology and Frankie, a 19-year-old college sophomore in Valencia College in Orlando. She writes, “We live in Coral Springs, Florida, a suburb between Ft. Lauderdale and Boca Raton. We have been enjoying the sunshine, warm weather, and occasional hurricane for over 25 years. I have a job that I love as Vice President of Public Relations for Catholic Health Services (the largest sub-acute continuum of care organization in the southeast US). I have been with CHS for 12 years and ran my own PR/Advertising agency for many years before heading back to mainstream corporate - with a Catholic twist! Just came back from a wonderful visit to Paris and Amsterdam - two of my favorite places, with my partner in crime Rick, one of my favorite people! 1976 Ann Downey O’Brien and her husband Tim, welcomed triplets on Sunday, March 8, 2009 just after noon. In order of birth the three baby boys are: Aidan Timothy at 3lbs 14oz, Brendan Connor at 4lbs 15oz and Connor Theodore at 4lbs 7oz. As of June 22, 2009, Aidan was 10lbs 14oz, Brendan 13lbs 13oz, and Connor 12 lbs on the nose. They each have a very distinct personality and all are smiling and “talking” - especially with Mom & Dad. After 20 years in Los Angeles, Carole Popolo van Almelo is now in Indianapolis after her husband Doug’s job was relocated. She is a self-employed website producer. She has two sons, Alex (18) heading off to Purdue, and Nick (13), heading off to Brebeuf Jesuit Prep. Her husband Douglas works for the airlines, so the family has travelled quite often to Europe. She is still madly in love with Douglas, even though he is now working in Florida- and only home on the weekends. (Maybe that’s the reason they are still happy?!) Carole stays in touch with Claire S, and more 76’s on Facebook. She is looking for Chris D, her best friend in high school. Her parents are still thriving, now living on Long Island. With a little more time on her hands now, Carole is enjoying gardening and is planning to work on a coffee table book of all the beautiful art in the Dominican Academy

Maria Miranda ’74 with her two sons at the graduation of her oldest son Tony (center) from Nova Southeastern University. Frankie (right), is a college sophomore in Valencia College in Orlando. building. Stay tuned! 1977 On February 22, 2009 eight alumnae from the class of 1977 gathered together at Virginia Connor’s apartment on the Upper West Side to celebrate Mary Jo (Schneider) Bennett’s 50th birthday. Classmates came from as far as Paris - Susan Leiter (Riering); San Diego - Coca Hummel (Astey); and as close as the Upper East Side - Victoria Donavan (Nickolas) and Eileen Schauer. Also in attendance were Mary Ann O’Brien and Mary Jo Wrenn. Mary Jo Wrenn writes, “Greetings to all our ’77 class members! Several of us have reconnected and have launched an annual fall weekend reunion. It’s a wonderful opportunity to spend time with each other – catching up with the present and enjoying many fun memories from the past. It’s amazing how the years just slip away when we’re together. Last year we rented a vacation home on Narragansett, Rhode Island and this year, we may be heading further south along the coast. So, please contact us and consider joining us this fall. Contact Mary Jo Wrenn at [email protected] or Mary Jo (Schneider)Bennett at thebennetts@montana. com.” 1979 Emese (Dean) Latkoczy writes, “First grandchild, Sophia, turned one on May 13th. My husband Peter visited her in Brazil while I went to Kolozsvar (Romania) for my first nephew’s christening. His name is Keve.”

Marilyn Jones Hospodar ‘61(second from right) and her foursome, after winning first place at “Rally for the Cure.”

Jennifer Calascibetta Canfield ’69 spends time with one of her favorite “subjects” – a horse! Part of Jennifer’s job is to interpret the body language of horses for mental health professionals.

1983 Maria Mercader writes, “This year has been particularly difficult for me, with the passing of my beloved Mom. I hope you all remember her. In some ways, I feel she earned the D.A. diploma without taking one Regent exam. After we graduated, Mom played the yearly musical for 6 more years! She loved Dominican Academy as much as I did. For those who were not there, I took Mom to our 20th high school reunion. She loved being part of the gang. Many of our classmates in the area attended Mom’s wake and/or funeral. It gave me strength to see so many, including the parents of Mabel who spent several hours with my family. I am a Producer for CBS News. Though I am vigorously

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involved in cancer advocacy, I found an additional path of advocacy. I started an organization called Opus Fund for the Cure of Pulmonary Hypertension. Mom was diagnosed with Pulmonary Hypertension. I partnered with a doctor, and we formed as a non-profit organization. I am pleased to say we will be able to give out a research grant this year. Please check out www. opusfund.org. Two young ladies from D.A. interned with Opus Fund and they were great. We can be proud alumnae. We graduated 26 years ago. I would love for us to plan some sort of reunion, what do you think? Email me at [email protected].” 1984 Deborah DeRosa writes, “Well, what’s there to say. Life revolves around my 5-year-old, Isabella. She had her first Chinese dance recital, she’s been promoted to Mites 3 in gymnastics (the step before team) and did I mention she just turned 5? She’s going to All Saints Academy in the fall. . . kindergarten!. . . I can’t believe it. . . and she typically drives me nuts because she’s so smart and spirited (not always a good thing for an exhausted mama!). I teach American Literature at Northern Illinois University and thank goodness for tenure in this economy! The sun may eventually warm our northern air, but don’t count on it. Sometimes it’s 64 degrees on July 4th (I’m NOT kidding!). I have the summer off, but don’t think I’ll be swinging in my hammock (wait, I don’t have one, but I’d love one for my birthday on June 16th!) I’ll be going to: the zoo, the Arboretum, gymnastics, the Library summer reading program, piano lessons, swim lessons, Little House on the Prairie mini-camp, Scripture Safari (a roaring good time!), and all that other 5-yearold stuff. Isabella celebrated her 5th birthday two days after mine with a tea party.” 1985 Carla Eng Kohn, her husband Brad and their two children, Mia and Dan, are doing well in Poughkeepsie, where they have been living since 2004. Carla recently became a partner of Mount Kisco Medical Group practicing OB/GYN. Mia will be starting third grade and Dan will be starting kindergarten. Carla has been able to catch up with some of her ’85 classmates through Facebook and is looking forward to seeing everyone at the 25th reunion. 1986 Deirdre Feerick has announced her candidacy to succeed current Council Member Eric Gioia who is vacating the office to run for Public Advocate. As a lifelong resident of the 26th district, Deirdre’s decision to run for City Council stems from her steadfast

commitment to public service and her willingness and ability to fight for the communities of Sunnyside, Woodside, Long Island City, Astoria and Maspeth. Stephanie Ramirez ’04, who notified D.A. of Deidre’s candidacy, wrote that Deirdre is “a great mentor, and helped me get my position in government and always looks out for D.A. girls who are interested in politics. She was the recipient of the Mother Stephanie Award when she graduated from D.A. and continues to display leadership. She’s currently running for NYC council district 26 in Queens!” Deirdre’s professional career in government began in the Oversight and Investigations Unit at the New York City Council. In that capacity she evaluated the efficiency of city agencies and made them more accountable and responsive to the residents of New York. She then served as Counsel to the Legislative Division of the NYC Council where she helped craft legislation to protect the most vulnerable among us, including domestic violence survivors and children. She also helped secure funding for important programs and services, meeting with key advocates and organizers to ensure their voices were heard at City Hall. Later, Deirdre became the Counsel and then Deputy Director of the Administrative Services Division of the NYC Council, where she serves New Yorkers to this day. Throughout her life, Deirdre has been involved in many community and charitable activities. Besides volunteering as a coach, teacher and mentor, and fundraising for local charitable organizations, she has dedicated her time to various causes, from community clean-ups to local food and clothing drives. She also serves as a Democratic District Leader and as an active member of several local civic organizations. http://www.feerickforcouncil.com/ 1989 Bridget Lyons has an eight-year-old son who is the “light of her life” and she is about two years away from finishing her PhD. 1991 Danielle Dell’Olio Elder has officially launched the website for her wedding and event planning business, Classic Events. The website is at: www.classiceventsnyc. com. Maria Peros-Bradica writes, “Thanks to the Class of 1991’s All D.A. Girl, Vivian Welsh, the Class of ‘91 reunited for a Facebook-inspired reunion on Saturday, April 18th in Little Italy’s La Mela restaurant. Many of us haven’t seen each other in well over a decade . . . some even since graduation! It was a very special night with lots of laughs and memories. The night was made even more special by Vivian taking up a collection for our

Deborah DeRosa ’84 is all smiles with her fiveyear-old, Isabella. classmate, Jocelyn Solis, who lost her battle with cancer. A donation of $500 is being made to the American Cancer Society in Jocelyn’s memory. 1993 Cristina T. Lopez O’Keeffe’s essay “Mama Esta Trabajando” (translated: “Mommy Is Working”) is published in the latest Chicken Soup for the Soul: Power Moms. http://www.chickensoup.com/ cs.asp?cid=powermoms_video. She did a reading/ signing at the Barnes & Noble bookstore in Manhasset, NY on Thursday, June 25, 2009. 1996 Laura Lawless Robertson and her husband James recently welcomed their first child – a daughter named Emma. After taking a brief maternity leave, Laura will be returning to her position as an attorney with the Phoenix, Arizona office of Greenberg Traurig, LLP where she practices labor and employment law and commercial litigation. She welcomes e-mails: [email protected]. 1997 Daniella Asaro was married to Patrick Gilmartin on August 3, 2008 at Church of the Blessed Sacrament in New York City. Their reception was held at The Manor in Essex County, NJ. Daniella graduated from NYU College of Dentistry in 2005 and is currently practicing general dentistry on the Upper West Side. Her husband practices law in Newark, NJ. They recently set up their new home in Beechhurst, Queens. Erika Medina McCauley and husband, John McCauley, became parents to their first child –Juan Luis McCauley – in December 2008. They are both attorneys in Philadelphia, but Erika is going to stay at home with their child and work on writing and research while John works at a firm.

Ann Downey O’Brien ’76 and husband Tim, welcomed triplet boys on March 8, 2009: Aidan Timothy, Brendan Connor and Connor Theodore.

The Class of 1977 mini reunion! Mary Jo Wrenn, ’77 writes: “As you can see by the picture -- none of us look our age!”

1998 On February 9, 2009, Jamie Serafinko Beatrice and her husband Andrew welcomed their second daughter, Delilah Claire! Delilah and her 2 ½ year old sister Rebecca are best friends! In May 2008, Jamie received her Masters degree in Secondary English Education from Brooklyn College and plans on beginning a career as a high school or middle school English teacher when Delilah starts school in a few years. After receiving a BA in Economics from the College of the Holy Cross in 2002 and a JD from New York

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Law School in 2007, Anne-Marie Canavan returned to Seville, a lovely city in the south of Spain, where she studied abroad during her junior year of college. She has been living in Seville since January 2008, and has since been working as the Assistant Director of an English academy. Her dual American-Irish citizenship has allowed her to reside in Spain permanently, though she does make it back state-side a couple of times a year to visit family and friends. Lisa Simek Cann and her husband, John, welcomed their first son, Lucas John, to their family on May 13, 2009. Everyone is doing well and couldn’t be happier! Samantha D’Aprile-Abel received her Masters of Science in Early Childhood Special Education from Hunter College on May 28, 2009. She continues to work at Sunshine Developmental School, a therapeutic preschool in Jamaica, Queens, where she teaches Pre-K. Patricia Montagno graduated from the University of Florida in 2002, then went on to receive her MBA from Fordham University in 2006. She worked for Procter & Gamble in marketing for two years and currently works in marketing for Pepsi. She resides in Greenwich, CT. Kristin A. Zielinski is currently the Manager of Legislative & Regulatory Affairs for the New York chapter of The American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists, serving as their chief lobbyist. She lives just outside of Albany, NY, in Altamont, where she bought her first house last year! She received a dual Master of Arts degree in History and Public Policy from the University at Albany and would like to pursue a PhD in History, with a focus on medicine. 1999 After teaching at Dominican Academy, Jennifer Batisti spent a year at Rice High School as the Science Department Director. In 2006, she enrolled in the Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston, Massachusetts, to pursue her M.D. She is currently enjoying her third year of medical school, and is especially interested in the study of neuroendocrine disorders. She would love to reconnect with any D.A. alumnae – both former classmates and former students – and can be reached by e-mail: [email protected]. Jane Callahan writes, “Since I graduated in 1999, I have traveled to over 30 countries, including Cambodia, Vietnam, Taiwan, India, and Europe. I have lived in Ireland, Italy, Thailand, and now Hawaii, where I am a school director at the Hawaii English Academy (it’s

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an ESL school for Japanese adults). Our school has been featured several times in the local news. My most recent “expedition” was a month and a half backpacking around India. My next backpacking trip is set for March 2010 to Argentina, where I will backpack my way through Patagonia and up through Central America. I have been doing some travel writing as well.” 2000 Natalie Saltares studied dance at Manhattan Ballet School, Ballet The Class of 1991 had a Facebook-inspired reunion. In attendance Hispanico, Steps NYC, Broadway were: Left side of table: Emily Blasi (Pacione), Annette Flaherty Dance Center, and The School (Choudhury), Ann Sydor, Vivian Welsh, Johanna Danaher (Rice), of American Ballet. She was the Melissa Fernandez, Eileen Mills (Fitzsimons), Maria PerosPresident of the Manhattanville Dance Ensemble from 2002 to 2004, Bradica, Madeline Leone, Dianne Witkowski; Right side of table: started the Manhattanville Dance Sheila McGoldrick, Yvonne Salgado, Melva Jimenez-Duane, Lucy Troupe, and was the recipient of the 2003/2004 leadership award for Most Temprano, Aileen Lowry-Farrelly Improved Student Organization. was Leslie Alba. Also in attendance from D.A.’s class Natalie is a former member of the Dynamic Dance of 2002: Tatiana Bedoya, Alexis Cedeno, and Corey Company, winners at the 2005 Nextar and Showstopper Calabrese. Championships. Natalie is now the main instructor at On Hudson Dance in Westchester County and is the 2003 head of the ballet program as well as the sole jazz/hip Karolina Magda was married in December 2008 to hop instructor to all students, aged 4 to adult. She is Benjamin Centeno. also on staff at The Pleasantville JCC and Central Park Dance. Natalie is the head choreographer and heads Olivia Roszkowski is currently enrolled in the Chef the On Hudson Jazz Company which performed on Training Program at the Natural Gourmet Institute for December 29, 2008 at the NJ Nets vs. Chicago Bulls Health & Culinary Arts. game and March 8, 2009 at the NJ Nets vs. NY Knicks at the IZOD/Meadowlands Arena. They performed with Yamicha Stephenson is a rising 2L at Brooklyn Law the NJ NETS DANCERS, which was televised on the Yes! School, graduating in 2011. Network. 2002 Caitlin Benedetto has been awarded a Fulbright Grant. Beginning this fall, she will be spending 10 months in Ethiopia working with Sudden Flowers: www.suddenflowers.org. Joana Da Silva married Michael Carney in the presence of their families and friends at Jericho Terrace in Long Island on Sunday, May 31, 2009. They met while working at Simpson Thacher & Bartlett as paralegals. Joana is currently attending New York Law School. Michael will be starting his Masters in Management & Systems at NYU in the fall while he continues his work as a senior paralegal at Simpson Thacher. Joana’s maid of honor

2004 Stephanie Ramirez is currently working for the New York State Senate in District 16. She is also volunteering on several elections – feel free to contact her if you live in Queens and would be interested in working on a political campaign: [email protected]. Amanda Santiago writes, “In the past five years since I graduated from D.A., I have spent my time in Williamstown, MA. Last June, I graduated from Williams College with a B.A. in Classics with a concentration in Latino/a Studies. Upon graduating from college, I have spent my first year out interning for the career counseling office of my alma mater. My internship will end in approximately two weeks. My plans for later this year will be to work within government before matriculating into graduate school.” Lillian Ruiz writes, “I graduated from Wesleyan University in 2008 with my degree in European History and since then I have been working as a freelance fundraiser in the health non-profit sector while working on my various music projects. Currently, my college band, Kinky Spigot and the Welders has been playing several large events including a fundraiser for Broadway’s “In the Heights.” My new project here in New York is a small three-piece band called Holiday Holiday and we are currently in the process of booking our first shows at some of New York City’s best venues. Generally, all is well and the first year out of college has been eventful.

Daniella Asaro ’97 was married to Patrick Gilmartin on August 3, 2008.

Rebecca and Lila, best friends & daughters of Jamie Serafinko Beatrice, ’98.

Louise Wen just finished her first year at Stony Brook University Medical School. This summer, she will be in Peru researching the clinical applications of medicinal plants through the Barry Coller International

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Health Grant. She is currently the American Medical Association chapter president, student-run health clinic Spanish translator, and Cancer Center yoga instructor. To keep fun and beauty in her life, she moonlights as a balloon artist and face painter.

2007 Nora Moran finished her sophomore year at Fordham University. She is majoring in Urban Studies and is enrolled in a 5-year Master’s program for Social Work. She is also interning at JPMorgan Chase this summer.

2005 Marion Plendner has been living in Graz, Austria for the past 4 years. She attended Tourism College in Bad Gleichenberg and graduated in 2007 as a Tourism Business Woman. Afterwards, she worked briefly in the Courtyard Marriott Hotel Graz at the reception to gather the working experience she needed for the hotel business. After that, she attended an Event Management Course which she completed with excellence. On June 8th, she began working at the reception in a new (not yet opened) hotel in Graz. She is pleased and excited to be able to work and experience the opening of this hotel, which occurred on June 15, 2009.

2008 Stacey Ha was placed on the Dean’s List at Brandeis University for the academic year of ‘08-‘09. Cristina Ramirez completed her first year at Boston University and will declare her double major in Accounting and Finance in the fall semester. … and here’s some news from our former staff! Former Development Director Rachael Nugent Soto and husband Jason welcomed Paolo Mark Soto to their family on June 11, 2009 at 1:36 PM. He weighed in at 8 lbs, 6 ounces and measured 21 ½ inches long. Big brother Mateo is settling in nicely to his new role, as are his parents.

Anne-Marie Canavan ‘98 is shown here, dressed up in traditional costume for the local Feria de Abril (April Fair) in Spain.

Gwendolyn Siska was married to Taylor Williams on June 14, 2009. The newlyweds will move to Dallas, Texas in the near future.

Lisa Simek Cann ’98 and husband, John, welcomed their first son, Lucas John, on May 13, 2009.

On Hudson Jazz Company’s head choreographer Natalie Saltares ’99 (third from left) performed with her students at a NJ Nets game, along with the NJ Nets Dancers.

Joana Da Silva ’02 wed Michael Carney in May 2009; pictured clockwise from bottom are Michael Carney, Joana Da Silva, Tatiana Bedoya ‘02, Alexis Cedeno ‘02, Corey Calabrese ’02 and Leslie Alba ’02.

Jane Callahan ’99 in action at the Hawaii English Academy, an ESL school for Japanese adults.

Please Remember in Your Prayers Please pray for those in the Dominican Academy family who have gone before us:

Eleanor Tynan Bent ’44, who passed away on February 20, 2008, after suffering from Alzheimer’s disease.

William Hainer Anagnos, husband of Jeanette Lampariello Anagnos ’53, who passed away on December 19, 2008. Bill, retired from the New York State Police after 30 years of service, was Jeanette’s husband of 54 years. They have two sons, William & Jeffrey and four grandchildren. Altogether, they run a family business of Apartment Rentals, in upstate New York about 100 miles north of the City.

Nancy Callahan, mother of Jane Callahan ’99, who passed away on April 5, 2009 in Honolulu after a long illness. She was 58 years old.

Pat Gardiner Godfrey ’64, who passed away in her sleep on March 13, 2009, a victim of stomach cancer. She is survived by her husband Ken, seven children, ten grandchildren, and two brothers. The Godfrey family asks for continued prayers for Pat and for the family.

Marilyn Montague Corbett ’52, who passed away on February 14, 2009.

Jose Gonzales, uncle of Eva More ‘08 and Daisy More ‘12, who passed away on June 3, 2009 from a hemorrhoidal stroke.

Patrice Keller Durry, ’57, sister of Anne Keller Carson ’60, who passed away in March of 2009.

Elaine King Hahn ’52 who passed away on January 4, 2009.

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Antonie Kubat, grandmother of Mary Kubat ’07, who passed away on January 4, 2009. Toni, known as Babi to many, was born in Czechoslovakia, married her husband Joe in 1937, and had two children, Joe and Jarmila (Gerrie). Toni was a seamstress, working on some of the most designer couture creations from the 1950’s until her retirement in the early 1980’s. She had three grandchildren and was always cooking and baking for them and her family, even at 95 years old! In the early 1990’s, she was diagnosed with cancer and was a survivor for almost 20 years. After her husband, Joe, and daughter, Gerrie, died a few years ago, she started to lose the fight in her. She ended up in St. Rose’s hospice in New York and eventually passed away peacefully with her son, Joe, at her side. Kathleen Lee, mother of the late Kathleen Lee Curran ’57, Rosemary Lee Ryan ’63, and Joanne Lee ’67, who passed away on January 5, 2009 at the age of 95. Kathleen Lee was also the aunt of Patricia Mannion Sugrue ’64. She was a graduate of the College of New Rochelle, class of 1935. She was the senior librarian for Elmont Memorial High School for many years. She instilled her love of books and reading to her students, children, and grandchildren. For many years she was a volunteer at the Hampton Bays Public Library. Her home at the beach is a place that holds many happy memories for both family and friends. Everyone was welcome and the house filled with fun and laughter. In recent years she moved to Dover, De. to live with Rosemary. Mrs. Lee was an active member of St. Andrew Avellino and St. Rosalie parishes in New York. She was a member of the Catholic Daughters, the Rosary Society, and past president of the Mothers Club of St. Andrew Avellino School in Flushing, New York, which all her children attended. She was also responsible for organizing and establishing the first library at St. Andrew’s. She was loved by many, and will be missed by all. Sr. Kateri McCaffrey, who passed away at Mohun

Spread your News! We invite you to share your news with your fellow alumnae and the entire D.A. family. We want to hear about all aspects of your life including your professional, personal and academic accomplishments. And don’t be shy – send pictures! You may participate by completing this form and returning it to: Dominican Academy Development Office 44 East 68th Street New York, NY 10065 Or [email protected] Or pass it along to your class rep and we’ll be sure to include your news in the next edition of VERITAS. We look forward to hearing from you!

Health Care Center on April 2, 2009. She was born in New York, NY, on August 22, 1923, to Thomas and Catherine (Herrick) McCaffrey. She entered the Novitiate of the Dominican Sisters of St. Mary of the Springs in Columbus in 1942 and made her Profession of Vows in 1944. Sr. Kateri earned a BA from St. Mary of the Springs College (now Ohio Dominican University) and an MA from DePaul University in Chicago, IL. Her ministry in education brought her to many schools, including Dominican Academy from 1990 until 2000. Sr. Kateri was one of the original four sisters from the Congregation to open a mission in Chimbote, Peru in 1966. She retired and did volunteer services at the Motherhouse before coming to Mohun Health Care Center in 2009. Memorial gifts in Sr. Kateri’s honor may be sent to Dominican Sisters of Peace, 2320 Airport Drive, Columbus, OH 43219. Kathleen McKeogh ‘69, who died of pneumonia after a brief illness on March 4, 2009. William Moran, father of Ann Moran Berg ’65, who passed away after a brief illness in 2006, followed by Ann’s mother, Mary Moran, fourteen months later. Barbara Robotti Murray ‘64, who passed away on March 21, 2009 in her home, after battling ovarian cancer. Barbara was born in Long Island City, N.Y. and had lived in the Schenectady area since 1972. Barbara attended St. Bonaventure University and worked as an underwriter for Murray & Zuckerman, Inc. in Schenectady. She was a communicant of St. John the Evangelist Church in Schenectady and a member of the Edison Club and the Red Hat Society. She is survived by her parents, Edward and Mary Ammann Robotti of Long Island City; her husband, Edward R. Murray; two daughters, Pamela J. (Peter) Bilfield of Weston, Conn. and Stephanie (Christian) Tefel of Oilville, Va.; one sister, Jacqueline Robotti of Albany; two brothers, Larry Robotti of Staten Island and Robert Robotti of Manhattan; three grandchildren,

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Hayden Bilfield and Avery Bilfield and Amelia Tefel. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews. Before Barbara died, she asked that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to Dominican Academy. At press time, 120 people have donated to Dominican Academy in Barbara’s memory. George S. Onderchek, father of Barbara Onderchek Black, M.D. ’58, who passed away on March 16, 2009, at the age of 100. Ruth V. Pretat (Pahler) ‘45 who passed away on December 29, 2008. She loved reminiscing about the times and friends during her years at Dominican and growing up in Flushing. She cherished her friendship with Eileen (Morris) Locker all through the years. Ruth, a Hunter College graduate and successful business woman, was a devoted mother of four children and grandmother to nine grandchildren. Alfred Scharfe, grandfather of Marion Plendner ’05, who passed away in January of 2009. He was 81 years old. Dominick Scialabba, brother of Marianne Scialabba Mongello ’59, who passed away on January 28, 2009. Mary Elizabeth Shortell ‘42, who passed away on September 12th, 2008. She was the loving sister of Ann Lemish, cherished aunt to Maryann Geaney and her husband Jeremiah. She is also survived by loving cousins in New York, Chicago and California. Mary Sweeney, mother of Susan Sweeney Sheehy ’60 and Mary Sweeney Perrier ’61 died in May of 2009 at the age of 92. Mary P. Walsh, who passed away on January 13, 2009 and Virginia Wagner, who passed away on February 11, 2009. Both women were the grandmothers of Cecilia Wagner ’98.

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Save The Date Friday, September 25, 2009

Annual Rooftop Reconnection Reception

Saturday, October 24, 2009 “4” & “9” All Class Reunion

Thursday, November 5, 2009 Major Benefactors Reception

Wednesday, December 23, 2009 Young Alumnae Welcome Home (Classes of ’09, ’08, ’07 & ’06)

Spend Semana Santa 2010 in Spain! Alumnae and friends are welcome to join the D.A. sponsored student trip to Spain over Easter Break next year. The itinerary includes Seville, Granada, Cordoba, Madrid and Barcelona. Check the D.A. website for details!

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