VOICES - Ursuline Academy

VOICES
WINTER 2010
TRADITIONS
Your Favorite
Ursuline Traditions
A UA Lion
in Africa
Auction 2009:
A Winter Wonderland
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Dear Ursuline Community,
In this issue of Voices, you will see what many of your fellow alumnae told us were
their favorite Ursuline traditions. We hope these recollections will remind you of
your own special memories of your high school days. Certainly our graduation
ranks among the most often cited and best beloved customs, a ceremony that has
remained virtually unchanged from the very first days of the school more than a
century ago. Other traditions, like May Crowning and the Senior Tea are no more,
yet newer ones like Spirit Week and Kairos have taken their place in the hearts of
Ursuline girls.
What all of this serves to remind us is that no matter when you attended Ursuline,
you held an important place in the history of the school, a timeline that spans
many generations.Your era, whenever it was, helped to bring the vision of our
founding Ursuline Sisters out of the realm of the ideal into the real world of form
and color, of sounds and sights. Did those Sisters see today’s students in their
minds’ eye when they opened the doors for the first time in 1896? Could they
have imagined the advances in education that were to come? Did they somehow
know that their vision and St. Angela’s spirit would sustain their brave venture for
so many years into the future?
As we enjoy and remember, let us celebrate what unites us. Let us take comfort in
the real and lasting traditions of Ursuline, the legacy all alumnae share:
The Voice her students find, the Values that guide them
and the Vision they live as they make their world
a better place.
Sharon Redmond,
President
Voices is published three times a year to report
school and alumnae news to parents, alumnae
and friends of Ursuline Academy.
Robin Anzinger Galvin '65, editor.
rgalvin@ursulineacademy.org
Ursuline Academy Development Department
5535 Pfeiffer Road, Cincinnati, Ohio 45242
Phone: (513) 791-5794
2009-2010 Board of Trustees
Patricia Fox Alderson
Gary M. Breissinger
Sr. Ellen Doyle, OSU
Patrick C. Gilligan
Dianne Kreuzman Hill '73, Secretary
Mary G. Hobson, Vice Chair
Sr. Patricia Homan, OSU
Monica Donath Kohnen
Donald P. Laden
Tamara Kearney Lanier '95
Alan H. McCoy
Michael S. McGraw, Chair
Ramona Payne '76
Sr. Ruth Podesta, OSU '50
Brian A. Ross, Treasurer
Gregory M. Utter
Judy Wildermuth Wells '78
William E. Wiebe
Administration
Sharon L. Redmond, president
sredmond@ursulineacademy.org
Adele Iwanusa, principal
aiwanusa@ursulineacademy.org
Mary Bender, assistant principal
mbender@ursulineacademy.org
Thomas Barhorst, assistant principal
tbarhorst@ursulineacademy.org
Development Department
Anne Jarrad
Development Director
ajarrad@ursulineacademy.org
Donna Scheidler Gruber '75
Director of Alumnae & Parent Relations
dgruber@ursulineacademy.org
Lori Haines
Director of Special Events
lhaines@ursulineacademy.org
On the cover:
The class of 1923. The white dresses and bouquets have been around
as long as Ursuline recorded history and began at the Sisters’ boarding
school in Brown County even before UA was founded in 1896. Interestingly, Sue Bressler West '57 reports that her mother’s class in 1928
wore pastels for graduation. See more memories and traditions inside.
This issue of Voices is made possible by the efforts of these valued contributors:
Ruthie Hurley, Donna Gruber, Lori Haines, Mary Alice LaPille,
Anne Jarrad, Lisa Woodall, Moira Veech.
Kathleen Knecht '98
Coordinator of Annual Giving
kknecht@ursulineacademy.org
Mary Alice Redden LaPille '76
Coordinator of Records & Research
mlapille@ursulineacademy.org
Marianne Lang
Development Assistant
mklang@ursulineacademy.org
Robin Anzinger Galvin '65
Director of Communications
rgalvin@ursulineacademy.org
Design: Anne Shannon Graphic Design
Printing: The Jos. Berning Printing Co.
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VOICES
WINTER 2010
Y O U R FAV O R I T E
UA Traditions
R i n g Day
C u rt s i e s , D o l l s & F r i e n d s
Barb O’Neill Backscheider '74
Beth Bolger Moran '57
My favorite traditions:
1) We would curtsy when greeting the sisters.
2) In third grade my favorite doll won a contest. My mother
made an Ursuline Academy uniform for my doll which
included a skirt, beanie and sweater. It was my favorite!
3) My friendships I made while attending Ursuline are true
treasures in my life today!
Our ring day was a special event that brought our class
closer together. I remember Julie Hunt singing “The Circle
Game” by Joan Baez. I loved that song! Somehow getting
a class ring made me feel more united to Ursuline and my
classmates. It was a great “Ya-Ya” moment.
EDITOR’S NOTE:
Beth’s daughter, Moira MoranVeech '91 has written
about her experience as a breast cancer survivor in
this issue of Voices.
L au r e l W r e at h
Showing their rings: back, left – Pam Novak, Shannon Lorton, Laurie Winter,
Robin Roll, Pat Novak, Cathy Cullinane; front – Chris Gray, Liz Brisken,
Barb O’Neill, Laura Rodarte.
Beth Schneider Naylor '79
mother of Kiley '09, Brynne '12 and Avery '16
In ancient Greece, laurel wreaths were awarded to the victors in
athletic, music and poetry competitions. In Rome, they were a
symbol of military strength and triumph. In other parts of the
ancient world, they were bestowed on newly qualified doctors
because the laurel leaf was believed to be omnipotent - a miracle
cure-all plant. Over centuries of civilization, the laurel wreath
symbolized scholarship and higher education (Nobel Laureate
and baccalaureate are references to the ancient symbolism of the
laurel.) Historically, this symbol was largely reserved for men, as
women did not participate in most of the activities for which laurel wreaths were awarded. Today the laurel wreath is a universally
recognized symbol of victory, achievement and success.
VOICES
WINTER 2010
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T h e L au r e l W r e at h :
A L i t t l e H i s t o ry
The laurel wreath is one of the most recognizable visual
elements of Ursuline Academy. As part of the new logo on
the academy’s signage and on all printed communications,
as sculpture crowning the rotunda in the entrance lobby
and as a sign of achievement bestowed at graduation,
most people associated with Ursuline recognize the laurel
wreath as an important symbol in the Ursuline tradition,
but few are familiar with the origins of that tradition.
Beth Schneider Naylor '79 crowns Kiley '09
at graduation.
The tradition of crowning our all-female Ursuline graduates
with a laurel wreath must have been very progressive when it
began over 100 hundred years ago. Today, our graduates know
that the victory symbolized by the laurel wreath at graduation
is just the beginning of their journey to higher levels of success
and achievement wherever their passions, talent and hard work
takes them. I truly appreciate that we have updated the tradition to allow men and women who have inspired our graduates
to crown them.
EDITOR’S NOTE:
Fathers used to crown their daughters, not mothers. And the graduates had
to kneel down when crowned.That means they also had to get back up.
Spirit Week
Erika '04 & Beth '09 Buehler
As sisters who both were able to experience the joys of UA, we
both agree that the best tradition at Ursuline is Spirit Week. We
particularly liked the Tug-of-War battles between classes! They
were full of energy and fostered a healthy sense of competition.
They were a great way to wake up and start the day off with intensity and fun! Spirit Week also unified the school through the
support given to everyone involved. Although five years apart,
we still talk about our Spirit Week experiences and how similar
they were, and enjoy having “shared” in such memories!
Erika Buehler '04 and Beth Buehler '09
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VOICES
WINTER 2010
In stories of Greek mythology, Apollo pursued Daphne,
who was not interested in his advances, and she prayed to
be able to triumph over him. Her prayers were answered
when she was turned into a laurel tree, but Apollo chose
to trim her branches and fashion for himself a wreath,
which he wore on his head as a symbol of what he saw as
his victory. It was that story that inspired the organizers
of the Pythian and Olympic games in Ancient Greece
to crown their victors with laurel wreaths, as symbols
of their triumph and achievement. Roman warriors
also adopted the tradition, and several centuries later,
Napoleon, too, embraced the same symbolism as an
outward sign of his accomplishments.
Back in early times, the term 'bacca-laureate’—which
translates to 'laurel berries’—signified the completion
of a bachelor’s degree, but today, in some countries, the
laurel wreath is awarded as symbol of the master’s degree.
The word “laureate” means award winner, or deserving
of distinction.
Spirit Week
Hannah Fiehrer, ’06
My favorite tradition when I was at Ursuline
was Spirit Week. There was so much class
pride and all of our competitions like the
canned food drive and penny wars benefited
the community as well. My favorite
Hannah Fiehrer '06
memories of Spirit Week were definitely
during senior year. We painted our cars and I remember
speeding to the bank at the last minute with my best friend to
get those extra pennies and help our class win the coveted
day off school.
C h r i s t m a s C o n c e rt
Phyllis Kemper, OSU '67
By far my favorite Christmas memory was rehearsing for and
singing in the Christmas concerts! When I was on the faculty
at UA and went to the concerts, wonderful memories of
Sr. Cecilia and the Glee Club came flooding back. I used to
love to sit on the stairs near the gym to listen to [the late] Lynn
Schultz rehearse “O Holy Night.” What a spectacular voice!
H o u s e wa r m i n g & W h i s p e r i n g Oa k s
Pat Corcoran '65
One of the cherished traditions we had at Oak Street was
decorating the two senior homerooms with the class colors.
Our class chose cranberry and pink. Classmates who could
sew made covers for the backs of our desk chairs, each with
the “owner’s” initials, as well as drapes and cushion covers for
the bay window seat in one of the rooms. Girls carried out
the color theme in art class, creating originals for the walls.
As much as possible – the yearbook cover design, the mints
at the housewarming tea, hair ribbons, and clothes when we
weren’t in uniform – showed our senior pride through our
special colors. I bet that more than one classmate still has her
chair cover!
“Layout night” was the most fun in Press Club. Way before
computers, we’d stay after school one afternoon to measure
every article, photo and ad with rulers so that each page of
our school newspaper, Whispering Oaks, would fit together in
the right way. We’d have to finish (or start) articles, write editorials, crop photos, and write headlines to a specific “count”
of thin letters, fat letters and spaces, depending on the typestyle we chose. If we stretched the work out just right, we’d
be forced to make a dinner run to Frisch’s down the block on
Reading Road for sandwiches, onion rings, cherry Cokes, and
strawberry cheesecake.Yumm, mmm, mmm!
Lynn Schultz’s '68 remarkable voice is still alive in the memories of her schoolmates.
Pat Corcoran '65
Y O U R FAV O R I T E
U A Traditions
VOICES
WINTER 2010
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Favo r i t e t r a d i t i o n –
H o u s e wa r m i n g
Ruth Podesta, OSU '50
When I was a senior at “Oak Street” we still had the privilege
of choosing our own class colors while still keeping Ursuline’s
brown and gold. We decorated our classroom and the senior
lounge with our voted-upon colors of chartreuse and old rose,
an oriental theme. Decorating meant making and hanging
curtains in the class colors, making chair backs for our desks
with our initials on them, and finding just the right pillows
for our treasured bay window seat. All of this happened in the
first quarter while facing challenges of harder studies, yearbook pictures, club activities, and just being seniors. It was an
opportunity to work together in new ways. Once the rooms
were ready we had a housewarming tea for the other classes and
invited seniors from the private girls’ high schools. When you
see Sister Mary Magdalen’s crown you will understand why
its gems are in all her senior classes’ colors.
My class at UA was the first freshman class in the new building
on Pfeiffer Road. I graduated in 1974 wearing the same white
dress my sisters wore, wearing the laurel wreath like they
did. The Ursuline tradition that means the most to me is the
friendships I made there that have sustained me through life
and the laughter that consumes me from recounting our high
school days. While at UA, I laughed for four years.
The Ursuline tradition has continued for a third generation
in our family. And I have been able to witness as a parent the
“rebirth” of the Pfeiffer Road School. My daughter, Abby
Strietmann, graduated in 2005, my niece, Andrea Lutter,
graduated in 2008, and my youngest daughter, Sarah, will
graduate this year in 2010. Her graduation will conclude three
generations of our family graduating from Ursuline over a span
of 50 some years. Thankfully, Ursuline traditions are a tradition
in our family.
Fa m i ly A f fa i r
Gail Lutter Strietmann '74
Ursuline Academy has been a tradition in our family for three
generations. The Ursulines of Brown County have been a part of
my life from the day of my birth. My aunt, Marjorie Niehaus
'56, graduated from Ursuline Academy the year I was born and
joined the convent after graduation. My sisters went to Ursuline Camp at Brown County and I became a camp counselor
there, thanks to Sister Regina trusting me to teach ceramics
with the use of her kiln. So my childhood memories are filled
with trips to Brown County.
My six siblings and I all graduated from St. Vivian School. My
mother, Elaine Lutter, taught there for 25 years. At St. Vivian’s we were taught by the Ursuline Sisters and my mother
taught alongside them. I remember making a feast day cake for
my beloved first grade teacher Sister Mark and visiting kind
Sister Xavier in the principal’s office. After graduating from
St. Vivian and Ursuline, I am the proud product of 12 years of
education by the Ursuline Sisters of Brown County.
My two older sisters, Cheryl Lutter White '69 and Carol
Lutter Almond '70, attended Ursuline Academy on Oak
Street. I remember being in awe of their beautiful friends, being
mesmerized by their Glee Club concerts, and being star-struck
by Carol’s friends Sharon Davis’ and Maureen Fleming’s
performances in “The Diary of Anne Frank” that I still compare
all stage performances to.
Marian King Drops '58 with two young friends from Ethiopia on a recent mission trip.
G r a d u at i o n
Marian King Drops '58
My favorite tradition was graduation - with the white gown,
the red roses, and the laurel wreath! I remember practicing
that walk down the aisle for years in PE classes with a book
on my head and dressed in my one piece blue sports uniform.
What a contrast between the two pictures! This tradition retains its magic down through the years.
Y O U R FAV O R I T E
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VOICES
WINTER 2010
U A Traditions
H o u s e wa r m i n g & M o r e
Jan Graham '68
One of my favorite Ursuline traditions was choosing class
colors and making chair covers and window seat pillows to
match. Also – the juniors giving the seniors a “gift.” Our class
received “pet rock” key chains painted in our class colors.
I also enjoyed the senior progressive dinner, culminating
(obviously) at the dessert “station,” where we received a gift
from the mothers’ club. My class received a cup and saucer,
I believe with our birthday month’s flower on it (not sure
though – mine had a blue morning glory on it). The “teas”
were actually rather enjoyable, and I’m sure are responsible
for my current poise and significantly “proper” demeanor at all
times! Yes, I am sure that I took a full four, diminutive bites to
consume one tiny tea cookie, and I still consider wearing white
gloves at times. However, as I think back, I am reminded of
all of the very reverent times we gathered in the chapel and
were required to don “chapel veils.” (I still have one!) I fondly
remember the times (pretty likely often for me!) when I was
without said chapel veil, and reverently covered my head
with a tissue (usually unused – but hey, sometimes I was in a
pinch!). And then there are the obvious: white dresses, red
roses at graduation and being crowned by my father (as I knelt
before him!); the graduation dance the night of graduation (we
wore our graduation dresses); the father/daughter talent show,
replete with dinner beforehand; Linna T. Smith’s “sports
extravaganza,” when I was a star at jumping hurdles; the
Christmas concerts in the gym, etc. What tradition from Oak
Street wasn’t great?
K a i ro s
backgrounds, their home lives, and their future dreams were
all put on the table for everyone to know. I remember coming
home from Kairos having a renewed appreciation for each girl
in our class, and I have yet to find an experience outside of UA
that has provided that same closeness between about 30 girls.
Mother’s White Dress
Becca Mustard '07
My favorite Ursuline tradition would have to be the wearing
of white dresses on graduation day. My mom, my two older
sisters, and I all wore the same dress for our graduation from
Ursuline. It was a dress my grandma had made for my mom in
1976 and somehow it was able to fit all four of us perfectly, and
still look fashionable 30 years later!
Being the fourth Ursuline girl in my family to curtsy in that
dress meant so much to me, it held a special bond between the
four of us. Wearing a white dress, instead of a cap and gown
made graduation more personal and traditional. Even though
every girl wore white, everyone looked unique, which is the
true definition of an Ursuline girl. During graduation, we
didn’t just sit through a ceremony, we were part of a longstanding tradition.
Marie Kramer '05 remembers Kairos.
Marie Kramer '05
When looking back over my four years at UA, most of my
favorite memories come from my senior year. Everything
ranging from our last musical to our final spirit week holds a
special memory for me, but my favorite experience had to be
Kairos 48. The connections that were made in those few days
were deeper than words can express. I remember sitting at
open mic time listening to the stories of girls I had known for
four years and realizing that I didn’t really know them. Their
Becca Mustard '07 with parents Barb Neyer Mustard '76 and
Larry Mustard. Becca is wearing her mother’s graduation
dress, made by her grandmother.
VOICES
WINTER 2010
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M ay C ro w n i n g
Dianne Kreuzman Hill '73
One of the most endearing memories for me of my years at
UA was of the May Crowning. The homage that was given
to Mary by the nuns and students was special. As an all girls
school, this felt very appropriate. On the first day of May we
were allowed to wear nice dresses or “church clothes” to school
and bring flowers from our yards. When the ceremony began
we were all in our homerooms and the Hail Mary prayer would
come across the PA system and we would join in the recitation of the prayer. Hearing Sr. Cecilia’s pitch pipe gave us the
correct musical note to begin our song, Amazing Grace. The
school would then process through the halls singing songs honoring Mary, down the three flights of stairs, out of the building
and on to the grotto where the statue of Mary stood. Antoine,
the long-time, much-beloved maintenance man, would have
previously placed a ladder there for the fortunate senior to
climb up and place a crown on Mary’s head. It was so impressive to hear the singing coming up the stairwell, being sung
on the steps and in the hallways as we slowly wound our way
outside where the voices were then mixed with the busy world
on Reading Road. The whole building and student body was
moving as one unified body to celebrate an important woman.
This tradition was initially continued at Pfeiffer Road however,
the open classrooms and additional space diminished the vocal
impact of the ceremony. Having two daughters attend Ursuline has allowed me the opportunity to see how the tradition
of honoring a religious woman has continued. This woman
is St. Angela Merici. The students are taught about a woman
who took risks and followed her beliefs. Her mission is often
referred to in the class room and service projects they choose
to perform.
M ay C ro w n i n g
Claire Wientjes and Cindy Burns, both '66, at May Crowning.
Julie Stier Schuermann '57
One of my fondest memories from Ursuline on Oak Street is
of the annual May crowning. On May 1st, students from the
entire school would walk outside in a procession to the statue
of Mary in front of school. We would sing “Immaculate Mary”
and other lovely traditional hymns, and one of the girls would
have the honor of placing a crown of flowers on Mary’s head. I
can still picture this event.
Modular Schedule
Y O U R FAV O R I T E
U A Traditions
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VOICES
WINTER 2010
Molly Klekamp Tassone '81
I am proud to be a 1981 alum of Ursuline Academy. My favorite UA tradition was the modular schedule. It gave me a sense
of freedom to choose how I would use my 20 minutes of free
time and it taught me organizational skills. I have passed these
skills down to my two daughters Megan’08 and Lauren '13.
A company came to campus and had me try on gowns until
they found one short enough so I wouldn’t trip walking across
the stage. The fact that it was cut wide enough for a linebacker
didn’t seem to matter.
Prom: Molly Klekamp Tassone '81 with Julie Van Curen '81
That’s another impracticality of the white gown. It has to
look good and it has to fit. Finding the right one takes time
and effort so I was really excited when Brigid came home
with a brochure about a dress shop hosting a trunk show for
graduation gowns. I wanted to get an early start looking at
dresses and now had a place to begin. While we were at the
store, I told the salespeople about how my mother had taken
me downtown to an old store named Gidding-Jenny for mine.
I looked over all of their dresses and knew mine the minute I
saw it. It was a beautiful long, white-eyelet gown. I loved that
dress. My mom still has it. For just a second I thought,
“Hey, Brigid is about the size I was … and she did wear my
class ring, maybe….”
Well, Brigid will not be wearing my dress. We bought the only
one she tried on because, in keeping with tradition, she knew
hers the minute she saw it, too.
Molly and sister Amy Klekamp Geers '77 at graduation
It’s All About the Dress
Molly Leonard '81
There are so many Ursuline traditions that it is hard to pick
a favorite especially now that I’ve gotten to relive some of
them because my daughter, Brigid, is going to graduate with
the Class of '10. I love the yearly Generations Breakfasts that
are like family/class reunions because so many extended family
members and so many from the Class of '81 have daughters
attending UA. I love the tradition of teachers who stay forever
and end up teaching you and your kids. There’s Junior Ring
Day and the laurel wreath at graduation but, as of last weekend,
there’s a clear winner. The white graduation gown.
I’ve had to defend the white gown several times over the years.
People argue that it’s impractical. They’re right. It is. So was
my wedding dress and my daughter’s baptismal gown. Caps
and gowns are much more practical. I’ve had two occasions
to wear them since graduating from Ursuline. All the men
and women graduates were dressed alike. Even I have trouble
picking myself out in the group pictures. Caps and gowns are
easier to find, too. My first set was purchased at the campus
bookstore. I ended up giving it to my nieces and nephews to
use on Halloween as part of their Grim Reaper costume. See,
caps and gowns are reusable, too. My second set was a rental.
Molly Leonard '81 in her white eyelet dress with parents Luke &
Marian Tarr Leonard, Brown County '52
VOICES
WINTER 2010
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G r a d u at i o n
Marybeth Partridge Dulle '81
Graduation—with the white
dresses, laurel wreathes and red
roses—was a favorite Ursuline
tradition.
Ed Schellhous, father of Mary Jane Schellhous
Ash '65 and Dan Schellhous (grade school) and
long time UA English teacher Cathi Schellhous
conducted the singing at graduation for many
years, as he does in this photo taken
around 1970.
Mrs. Smith
Penny Drive
Anne Finn '57
My memories of U.A. from kindergarten to graduation are
many and wonderful such as the plays we put on directed by
Linna T. Smith, but the most important are the graciousness
and refinement we learned as students and also our friendships of fifty to sixty five years especially those in Cincinnati we
regularly see and with whom we have lunch.
AllysonWesterkamp Porshinsky '89
It may seem trivial but I really enjoyed the penny drive
during spirit week. There was so much wrapped up in a simple
act of putting pennies in a jar...competition, tradition, pride,
learning, charity. It really embodies the truth that every little
amount of giving is worthwhile.
F Day / X Day
Pa s t e l s at G r a d u at i o n? W ho K n e w ?
Sue BresslerWest '57
While trying to recall some Oak Street traditions, I remembered one very old interrupted tradition concerning wearing
white dresses for graduation. When I was helping Sister Gabriel
write the history of the school, I tried to convince her that my
mother’s class (1928), had worn pastel dresses for graduation.
Sister, (bless her soul), simply did not want to hear this sacrilegious story. I have an old scrap book with a photograph of the
“Graduating Class of 1928 Ursuline Academy,” Monday June 4,
which was in The Cincinnati Enquirer. The girls were carrying huge bouquets of flowers, and because the dresses were
all pastel, they appear as white in the photo. However, my
mother had written each girl’s name and the color of her dress.
There were three little flower girls, and they wore white. My
mother’s dress was green — we still have it, and it’s beautiful.
Oh, those rogues from the Class of '28!
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VOICES
WINTER 2010
Cydny Hofmann Holt '76
One of my favorite things was “F day”/”X Day” when we had
the chance to try something new. Recently when I took a yoga
class, I was reminded of my first attempts at yoga in the classrooms of Ursuline in the 1970s. But even more memorable
were ones that extended over a weekend in order to take trips
around Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, and Kentucky. They provided
such nice opportunities to get to know other students outside
the school setting. I’m thankful there were teachers willing to
arrange these trips!
Class Rings
B i rt h day s & G e n e r at i o n s
Rachel Merchak '09
The tradition that I like the most is the class rings. Since everyone has the exact same ring, it is something to connect us with
other classmates from different years. It also is something cool
to look back on that really is a symbol of Ursuline Academy.
Julie Schmitt Kelly '81
I was thinking about traditions at UA and the one that popped
in my head was sharing birthdays with friends at UA during
school. We would make a cake and eat it in the bathroom (yuk)
by the old gym. [Daughter] Brynne also loves baking and
taking in b-day treats for friends, but I think they eat in the
cafe. I also love sharing the morning, with my Mom and
Brynne, at the generations breakfast! It is so special that we
have 3 generations at UA now and love that UA offers us that
opportunity to share that with other UA alumnae.
C h r i s t m a s C o n c e rt, T e a
Martha Broerman Brosz '65
The tradition I cherish so much is the Christmas Glee Club
Concert, singing The Night Before Christmas. Sr. Cecilia really had us practice to perfection. Lisa Wellbaum and Lynn
Schultz conducted.
Rachel Merchak '09, Michelle Merchak '09 and Emily Albrinck '09 show their class rings.
Also loved that Senior Tea! Truthfully I hated carrying the cup
of tea and cookies on a plate to our moms (with our “ pinky
fingers” sticking out). Boy, one surely had to be coordinated to
balance the cup and cookies on the plate. I know I lost some
cookies in the process.
S e n i o r Pa r a d e
Shawn Marie Babinec Baxla '84
My favorite memory is of the Senior Parade on the last day of
school (and the first day of school for the class of 1984). It was
fun to stop the traffic on Pfeiffer, have a classmate “direct” the
traffic (Ann Plageman Lew looked great in her Budweiser
hat and Flames orange jacket), create noise and confusion on
the last day of school, and to see all our classmates enjoying a
true “Ursuline senior moment.” It was also fun to re-create this
experience at the 20th reunion and have Mrs. Speaks meet us
at the front doors with the same response we received in 1984.
F ro m B o t h S i d e s
Susie Keating Lame '76
As a student: Hanging out in micropolis or the locker hall with
my friends—studying, gossiping and just having fun. It seemed
like we would sit there FOREVER.
As a parent: The fun and friendship that came with having
a student athlete. Watching the games, cheering with other
parents, making friends. I miss that! Enjoying the generations
breakfast with my three daughters. I enjoyed seeing other
alums, many that I attended school with, and their daughters. It
was fun to rekindle relationships or create new ones.
S a n ta H at
Shelly Jahn '09
My favorite tradition was finding the Santa hat during free
mods the week before Christmas break! Then having a victory
lap around the school afterwards.
Y O U R FAV O R I T E
U A Traditions
VOICES
WINTER 2010
11
Year of Seniority
T h r e e Favo r i t e s
Sylvia Sieve Hendon '61
Without a doubt it [favorite tradition] was finally moving up
to the senior rooms on Oak Street—the ones with the big bay
windows—picking “class colors” (ours were pink and red...we
were so avant garde for the early 60s), making our chair back
covers on time for the first afternoon tea, and re-writing lyrics
to a class song from a melody which was popular at the time.
I can still remember most of them. It’s a wonder someone
didn’t sue us for infringement...but that was before the world
turned so litigious. It was a glorious year of true “seniority.”
And sadly, perhaps what we didn’t know was that it was pretty
much the end of a different era.
Sarah Agar '07
Junior Retreat, Spirit Week, and Annual Music Banquet.
Spirit week! We bleed blue!!! Junior year spirit week we all
went out and gave the senior class a run for their money!
Junior Retreat......this was one of my favorite moments during
my four years at UA. These girls became my sisters! Nicole
Ollier, Elizabeth Gruber, Sarah Cunningham, Rachel Lafranconi,
Sarah Agar, Katie Schlecter, Amanda Mock
Hon. Sylvia Sieve Hendon '61 surrounded by juvenile court friends
L au r e l W r e at h
Judith Gibson Teneyck '80
I think my favorite tradition at Ursuline is the crowning
at graduation. I think every girl remembers the moment
of their parent or parents placing the wreath on her head.
The pride and happiness you feel at that moment. The long
white dress and roses, sharing the experience with your
best friends and family, it doesn’t get much better.
The music department’s annual music banquet! Great food,
friends and memories! Allison Turner, Amy Lacker, Mary
Elizabeth Ulliman, Sarah Agar
Y O U R FAV O R I T E
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U A Traditions
Senior Mural
Angeli Alino Breen '87
I thoroughly enjoyed my UA experience. It gave me many of
my skills and much of my confidence to pursue a career doing
something that I love. One of my favorite Ursuline traditions
was the senior mural in the Free Mod room. Each senior class
expressed themselves through this collaborative effort and
inspired students daily.
Sunning
Ring Day ceremony in the chapel at Oak Street.
Naomi Kinney '81
Mine [favorite tradition] was “The Beach!” Before all the recent
remodeling, we would suntan right outside of the cafeteria
(just beyond the smokers). It was a good mental and physical
getaway to make you feel like you could escape the academics
for a minute or two. It was also GREAT prep for spring break!
Oh, but Ms. Purcell [Mrs. Geri Wiehe] made sure we did NOT
hike those skirts up too high! It was a lot
of fun, like many of my UA memories.
EDITOR’S NOTE:
R i n g Day
Marilyn Parks Herring '69
I looked so forward to Ring Day. In my 17-year old brain
becoming an upperclasswoman was a huge and important
“step up.” (I even wrote a terrible poem about it, called “Ode
to a Ring.”) In those days, the traditions of the class song and
dinner after Ring Day were– for me– such indelible parts
of growing up and maturing; those Oak Street rituals called
me to acknowledge the importance of responsibility, being a
leader, and becoming the best student I could be. A solemn
emphasis on class unity also dominated the ceremony; the ring
was a tangible sign of that commitment. (I also remember
that on the way to Mt. Adams, where we had our dinner, I had
a flat tire, right on Reading Road!!) I still miss those innocent
and unencumbered days.
Smoking is one “tradition” that did not survive.
Naomi Kinney '81
Tree Planting
Betsy Elsaesser '71
Not every class gets to plant a tree on the school grounds. I
went to Ursuline when the building was new and money for
landscaping was limited. I remember a row of small evergreens
on the edge of the property (one for each preceding class?)
and Sister Merici had our Advance Biology class watering the
trees. Planting a tree or shrub became a custom for me at every
home I have had since then.
D e c o r at i n g O u r H o m e ro o m
Libby Fisher Mott '49
I feel confident that the senior girls no longer have THIS
tradition since their class is so large, but with our group of
only 28 students “decorating our homeroom” was a really big
deal. Much planning went into choosing our colors, incorporating the colors into chair-back “slipcovers,” hanging draperies etc. We felt mature and in charge! Sr. Mary Magdalen
was our homeroom teacher and she made the whole event
fun-filled.
VOICES
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13
Trip to
B ro w n C o u n t y
Jewel Geisling Geoppinger '58
One “tradition” which I always enjoyed
was visiting Brown County at St.
Martin. I do not know if you know
but two members and I from the Class
of '58 traveled to BC to visit the grave
of Sr. Gabriel in May. On a beautiful
spring day Carol Vogele Egnor,
Aileen Ryan Reinstatler and I took
a dozen red roses (talk about tradition)
and an iced bottle of champagne (not
so traditional) and visited our favorite
Sr. Gabriel. I don’t know how our visit
ranks on the orthodoxy chart, but there
you have it. We saw Sr. Mary Paul
that day and she gave us the tour of her
archive museum which includes Oak
Street fixtures.
A bit of bubbly at Sr. Gabriel’s grave
Yearbook Editor Remembers
Mary Ann Blesi Fagel '48
“The Best Years of Our Lives” that was the theme of the 1948
yearbook. I was its editor and spent long hours with my staff
and Sr. Mary Magdalen, our advisor, assembling the production. Upon reflection it was truly a memorable year – the
Senior Play, the Senior Tea, the Senior Prom, climaxed by
graduation. But more importantly, our class has remained close
together, meeting monthly for lunch. Those “best years” have
produced our “best friends” for life.
Yuletide Lunch
Emily Butler Venosa '93
Since graduating in 1993, a group of friends from our class has
met for brunch each Christmas Eve. It is such a wonderful tradition because it gives us time to catch up on the year’s events.
The women in attendance vary year to year based on travel
schedules but each year a group meets. I have come to look
forward to it and cherish it as one of my fondest holiday and
Ursuline traditions!
The picture from left to right includes Kerri Stroffregen Wachtel, Jamie Clark Rivers,
Kristin Huber Carnevale, Molly Bresnen Zuckerberg, Krista Deyhle Lofthouse and Emily
Butler Venosa (all class of 1993)
Senior Tea
Mimi Frey '57
Ursuline always had some WONDERFUL Traditions!!
I especially treasure the Senior Tea. We would all be SOO
dressed up and looking SOO 50’s and our classroom would be
finally decorated in our class colors and our mothers would
come—hats, white gloves and all !! We ALL felt SOO special
and proud. We had finally made it to our Senior Year.
Christmas Time
M Y S T E RY P H O T O ! (below)
Meredith Mason '05
My favorite memory from UA
was the day before we got off
for Christmas break. Everyone
was in such a great mood and
dressed up in holiday colors.
Friends exchanged gifts and
Drew Lagergren '05 & Meredith Mason '05
Mr. Nieman and his Physics
classes went from class to class and sang carols and he did his
Elmo impression. Then all of us shuffled into the auditorium
for the Christmas assembly. The Student Council Board did
their hilarious skits and the music department did a holiday
concert. I will never forget my Ursuline friends who still are
such a big part of my life. No matter where I am, or what I
am doing, Ursuline Academy has a little bit of my heart!
Where was this taken? What was the occasion?
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VOICES
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S p i r i t W e e k , P r a n k Day
Jessi Ziepfel '05
This photo is a group of my classmates on “Dress Like a Rapper
Day” during spirit week 2005. Spirit Week was always the most
anticipated week of school and it was days like this where we
would really go all out. These outfits definitely earned us that
day off school.
For our senior prank, the whole class sent each other flowers
on the last day of school to flood the office with deliveries,
since they banned flower deliveries on Valentine’s day that year.
It was an innocent prank on the administration as they struggled to manage 150+ flower deliveries during the day. Senior
prank was something we looked forward to since the day we
started senior year and this was the perfect one.
“Dress Like a Rapper Day” left - Aiden Williams, Jessi Ziepfel, Jocelyn
Cravens, Sam Swaine and Angela Holtgrefe, all class of 2005
Receiving line at the Senior Tea
Y O U R FAV O R I T E
U A Traditions
VOICES
WINTER 2010
15
Ursuline Traditions of Learning and Teaching
A UA LION
IN AFRICA
On a Monday morning in December, Steph Dawes (UA’05)was
once again in an Ursuline English IV Honors class. She could
have easily passed for one of Mrs. Herring’s seniors enjoying
an out-of-uniform day, but she was back at school as an alum
to share with the UA class of 2010 some of the highlights of
the incredible journey she has been on since graduating from
Ursuline just four and a half years ago.
With her well-traveled laptop connected to the projector,
Steph stood in front of the classroom sharing National Geographic-type pictures and personal insights about a group of
African girls with whom the UA seniors have been corresponding since September. Steph knew the African girls well – they
are students at the Kibera Girls’ Soccer Academy in
Kibera, Kenya, where she had been living and working since
May. She began her internship in Africa just two weeks after
graduating from Michigan State University where she earned
her BS in Biology (with specializations in African Studies and
Connected Learning).
Steph told the UA girls everything they wanted to know about
their pen pals – their personalities, their dreams and fears, and
what the future likely holds for them. While in Kibera, she
became all too familiar with the obstacles they face both culturally and financially in becoming educated – societal norms in
this part of Kenya do not support the education of women, and
the resources simply do not exist to pay for tuition or books.
The pictures she shared were a testament to the incredible
poverty that envelopes their world – and irrefutable evidence
of the positive impact of the international non-profit organizations, like the one for which Steph interned – Education for the
Future Foundation (EFF).
Her experience at KGSA proved to Steph that progress can
be made in countries like Kenya, although it may come in
slow, small steps. Teaching the Kibera girls to grow their own
nutrient-rich vegetables in burlap sacks is one example. “That
may seem like something small, but it helped a lot as I was
solving water and food shortage challenges at KGSA this year,“
Steph said. In terms of the bigger picture, teaching the girls
they could cultivate a healthy food source helped demonstrate
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the enormous potential for even more “life skills and leadership training for secondary students.”
The pictures Steph had to share were fascinating and the stories of the girls and their struggles were very compelling, but
the UA seniors also wanted to know more about how someone who seemed very much like them – someone who, just 5
years ago, sat exactly where they were sitting now – had put
together such an extraordinary adventure . . . how, exactly, did
Steph get from Blue Ash to Africa?
“I began to develop an interest in living and working in Kenya
during my senior year of high school when I was making my
college selections.” Steph explained. “What I was looking for
in a university was a zoology program where I could dig into
undergraduate research. “ When she visited the Michigan State
campus in East Lansing, she investigated the research opportunities in zoology, and found a program that would allow her to
go abroad the summer after her freshman year, studying spotted hyenas in Kenya. She was accepted to MSU, and at the end
of her freshman year, Steph was on a plane headed for Africa.
“I settled into the marathon plane ride, having no idea that
this simple six-week expedition would open my eyes to a new
world, filled with people longing for better education, health
care, and community services. This unique MSU-sponsored
experience kindled my passion to learn as much as possible
about Africa and the issues confronting the people I met. “
“Soon after landing, I stepped into a grassy savannah filled with
acacias whistling in the breeze, giraffes munching on distant
trees, and people walking down dirt roads selling banana
chips. As I attempted to dive into the animal behavior that was
intensely studied in the Maasai Mara, I consistently felt myself
drawn toward the people. One morning, instead of going out
to the field, my research group and I hiked to Talek Primary
School, the daytime home to over 500 Maasai children in first
through eighth grades. It was here that I met two fourteen
year-old girls, the only two females of fifteen students in the
eighth grade class. They were near the top of their class, but
lacked the cultural and economical resources to continue to
secondary school. Mary and Peninah, if not sponsored by the
end of the year, would be married to men three times their
ages, adhering to strict cultural norms associated with family
life.” The two girls were desperate “to attend secondary school
and avoid the traditional customs . . . their only obstacle was
the tuition their parents could not afford.”
This was a life-changing revelation for Steph. When she returned to MSU, determined to make a difference, she founded
FUSE (Friends United in Service Efforts) – a student group
turned non-profit organization that now funds 17 Kenyan girls’
educations each year, raising money to sponsor Mary, Peninah
and other girls like them. The organization also raises awareness at MSU about the issues confronting Maasai girls and other
oppressed people in Africa.
Stephanie with a container garden, a practice she taught in Kenya
Throughout college, Steph completed medical clinic internships and service projects in both rural and urban communities.
This convinced her that her life’s work should integrate her
experiences with healthcare and education in parts of the world
where access can make the most difference. Her six-month
sojourn after graduation, as the recipient of the Richard Lee
Featherstone Endowed Prize, was her first step. In February,
she will be heading back to Kenya to spend ten months working as a research assistant, then, in February 2011, Steph will
join Nuru International, as an Education Program Manager,
working to eradicate extreme poverty through holistic, community oriented solutions.
Steph’s incredible odyssey has changed her life forever, but
what she has learned in Africa rests on a foundation that was set
at Ursuline. “I have learned about the power of relationships;
the power of community. Mr. Forman, Ursuline’s former
Community Service Director, introduced this concept when I
was a high school student. We traveled to Liberty, Kentucky,
and our motto the entire weekend and long afterward was 'it’s
all about the people.’ This is a concept that was engrained in
me and is continually engrained as I continue to discover how I
will best be able to impact the world. In Kenya, I was remind-
ed of the importance of a solid working relationship - of trust,
of listening. My goals could not be 'to accomplish,’ as is the
traditional American mindset, but to listen and learn as much
as I could. Perhaps that is my most profound learning. The
most meaningful change within yourself and your community
comes when you have the 'listen and learn’ mindset, rather
than an 'accomplishment’ or overachieving mindset.”
“Mr. Forman was my biggest [influence] at Ursuline. He
taught me SO many lessons about living and working with
people . . . He taught me to move beyond issues, and focus on
people. When I volunteered at the Drop Inn Center, it wasn’t
about addressing homelessness; it was about working with
[the] residents…working with them to improve [their] lives.
This learning also affected my leadership style. I left Ursuline
with confidence that service was an embedded part of my life
and with the confidence to lead a student service group. Ursuline instilled within me a self confidence and independence
that has permeated the rest of my life. I love to explore, travel
and live abroad. If I lacked that confidence or independence, I
would imagine I would feel very differently.”
So, what, then brings a world-traveler back to the comfortable
confines of suburban Cincinnati? Family, of course, and friends
. . . Cincinnati is home. But what brings her back to UA?
“One of the things I love most about Ursuline is the community. I leave, but I always come back, and when I do, I am
embraced. Former teachers have become my friends and close
mentors. I am blessed. Ursuline is an important part of my
definition of home.”
Ursuline is blessed, too, as is Africa . . . we both have Lions
we can be proud of.
The container garden yields rich rewards.
VOICES
WINTER 2010
17
Ursuline Traditions of Faith, Strength and Mutual Support
Moira’s Story
August 9, 2003 I became Mrs. Michael J. Veech. It was the
most wonderful day and I didn’t think it could get any better. I
married the most loving and amazing man. January 12, 2006
we had our little angel boy, Luke. This would now become my
most memorable and cherished day. My parents were there for
the birth and my father, a retired OBGYN, was in the delivery
room to greet his grandson! I was on top of the world, so
blessed to have a beautiful family and life was great. October
13, 2006 we heard the words……you have cancer. This now
would become the most memorable day, a day that would
change my life forever. The day that I was diagnosed with
breast cancer.
My husband, Mike and I were living in Beverly Hills, Michigan
at the time. We came home to Cincinnati to meet with doctors
and mostly to receive the help and love of my parents. I made
the decision to have a double mastectomy and I would never
look back with regret. October 31, 2006 I had a mastectomy
and began chemotherapy in late November. My oncologist,
Dr. Elyse Lower, is one of my most loved people in this world.
Moira with her mother,
fellow breast cancer survivor
Beth Bolger Moran '57
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I always remind myself of the words from her mouth the first
day Mike and I met with her: “Moira, throughout this whole
journey, never forget the most important factor, you have a
wonderful prognosis. You are a healthy young woman with
a loving family and support channel. Never, ever lose sight
of that fact.” Those may seem like just words to you but that
simple sentence kept me strong and determined and continues
to inspire me today.
My mother, Beth Bolger Moran, class of '57, is also a breast
cancer survivor. She is now 26 years cancer free. THANK
GOD!!! My mother and I had a very special relationship before my diagnosis but we have truly grown closer over the past
few years. She was my strength as she sat with me during each
chemo treatment. She stayed so strong throughout the whole
process. One could never imagine what is going through
a mother’s mind while watching her bald baby girl receive
chemotherapy. I know it broke her heart to see me face this
challenge but, as I always told her,” I can’t go anywhere….too
many people need me here on earth. “
I am blessed in so many ways. I am alive; I have a beautiful
family, and just celebrated three years cancer-free. A TRUE
BLESSING!!! Cancer does not define me but it is most certainly part of my life. Attitude is everything. Some of you may
remember (from visits to the Moran house in high school) a
motivational quote by Charles Swindoll hanging in my parents’
back hallway. It reads “I am convinced that life is 10% of what
happens to me and 90% how I react to it.” I was faced with the
diagnosis of breast cancer and, along with the love and support of my husband, held my head high and trudged through.
I never struggled with the question “why me, God.” I simply
prayed, and I mean lots of prayers, and asked God to carry
me through. I believed that I was going to triumph through
this challenge and prayed that I would be a better person in
the end. I am confident today that I am a stronger and better
person because of my life experiences and challenges.
I am often asked what helped me get through it all and how
did I not break down. I think there is a simple answer and
depending on the day, the order of importance could change:
My adoring husband, our precious Luke, my devoted parents,
my loving sister (Megan Moran ’85), three big brothers, my
treasured circle of friends, and God!!! Many people ask how
I was able to go through chemo while caring for a nine month
old son. Children are truly angels on earth. Just seeing his
beautiful smile and hearing his giggle carried me through each
day. He was growing so fast, learned to walk, and never saw
any difference in his mommy. He snuggled and loved me on
those truly “dark days.” He was my strength and motivation!!!
There was no time to weep about the cancer because there was
too much living to do and Luke was, and still is, the center of
our world.
Mike, Luke, and I moved home to my parents’ during my
illness. While my husband was traveling each week back and
forth to Chicago for work, my father took on the role as Papaw
Daycare and my mother took on the role as my nurse. By the
end of my treatments we were a well oiled machine. We made
it work and had a darn good time in the process. Days that I
was so tired and weak and just wanted to crawl back into bed
the Men’s Club would have a performance. That club consisted
of Mike, my father, and Luke. They would have weekend meetings that would involve a trip to the doughnut shop and long
walks. There are many silver linings with my story. One of the
most treasured is the relationship that my boys and I have with
my parents.
There were so many fellow Ursuline alums who reached out
to me and showed me love during my illness. Dear friends,
former coaches, friends’ parents, my mother’s friends and
many others. That is a true testimony to the beautiful friendships and bonds that come from Ursuline. Thank you to each
of you for helping me and my family. Although I hope and pray
that none of you ever has to face this disease, I feel truly blessed
in so many ways for the lessons I have learned through battling
cancer. I truly appreciate the “treasures” in life, the wonderful
people in my life and the experiences we share.
The boys and I are living in Chicago and we are enjoying and
living life. Life is way too short. Start living today, don’t put
things off. Life can change in seconds. Use the words “I love
you,” “I am sorry,” “thank you,” PRAY, and make the most of
your life. It is the only life you have. I simply would love to
help and reach out to anyone who is suffering or could use a
hug or supportive words. My wish is to help ease the pain of
anyone struggling with cancer and be an inspiration to them
and their families. With lots of strength, love, prayers, and fight
you will prevail!!! Happy and Healthy living to each and every
one of you!!!
Love, Moira Moran Veech '91
moiraveech@hotmail.com
EDITOR’S NOTE:
We are so very grateful to Moira for
reaching out to us with her story.
About 1 in 8 of us will have to fight
this same battle at some point in our
lives. Moira is willing to support
anyone who finds herself facing this
disease.This is a tremendous opportunity for Ursuline women to feel the
strength of their connection.
Moira Moran Veech with husband Michael and son Luke. Photo by Owenemma Photography
VOICES
WINTER 2010
19
AROUND SCHOOL
Traditions of Academic Excellence,
Artistic Expression, Service & Spirituality
Left to Right: Sue Lytle, Suzanne Rutishauser '98, Genie Libis and
Susan Barhorst.
Left to Right: Colleen McCroskey, Teresa Whitaker, Indre Matulaitis, Rachel Fogg,
Emily Cleary, Shannon Manley and Lauren George.
Congratulations to the seven young women who were named
2010 National Merit Semifinalists and Commended students
by the National Merit Scholarship Program.
Science teachers Sue Lytle, Genie Libis and Susan
Barhorst were surprised to meet up with alum
Suzanne Rutishauser '98 at a teachers’ conference. Known in the bio world as “Suze Roots,” she
works for an organization called Untamed Science
and credits her Ursuline AP biology course with
launching her love of plants. Check her out at
http://www.untamedscience.com/suzeroots
From left to right, Ursuline’s National Merit Commended students are: Julia Tasset, Emily Sullivan, Theresa White, Lauren Marlatt, Emily Kaes, Kathleen
Beach, Courtney Smalley, Christina Mondi, Alexandra Bren, and Sarah Volpenhein. Not pictured is Christina Arand.
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From left, Maria Thomas, Beth Kaylor, Jinnie Lacker, Ali Backscheider, Megan Schnicke, Emily Cleary, Trisha Reddy and Laurel Wiebe. Not pictured: Chelsea Cleary.
Members of the 2009-2010 Ursuline Student Council Board gathered at the school’s new Pfeiffer Road sign recently to
send Christmas greetings. The sign highlights Ursuline’s new logo with the accompanying tagline, “Voice. Values. Vision.”
Using symbols of Christianity and achievement, the new mark is the result of a year of research and design.
Freshmen learn about their Ursuline
heritage in the chapel at Brown County
for Freshman Day of Renewal.
Jessica Zinnecker '12 shows off her
ballroom dancing at Faces of UA
talent show.
Freshman Lillie Ivers sings at Faces
of UA talent show.
Faces of UA is a talent show highlighting
Ursuline’s cultural diversity.
Freshmen Sunny Iyer, Shivani Desai, Anosha Minai and Devina Manek perform a Bollywood dance routine.
VOICES
WINTER 2010
21
Photo by Mark Bowen / stop ) aids
AROUND SCHOOL
Ursuline’s StopAids Team
Once again, the largest school team with the most dollars raised was from Ursuline for the annual
StopAids walk in the fall. Librarian Julie Burwinkel has coordinated UA’s team for 10 years.
Ursuline Hosts German Students
Ursuline Academy and Sycamore High School recently
participated in a pilot program student exchange between
the City of Blue Ash and its sister city, Ilmenau, Germany.
While in the Greater Cincinnati area, students enjoyed a city
tour conducted by local historian Dan Hurley which included
Riverside Drive, St. Peter-in-Chains Cathedral, Plum Street
Temple, City Hall, Over-the Rhine and the Freedom Center.
The students and their principals represented two Ilmenau
schools, Goetheschule Ilmenau and Staatliches Gymnasium
“Am Lindenberg.” Dr. Linda Hoffman-Jeep of the World
Languages department coordinates foreign exchange and travel
opportunities for Ursuline students.
German exchange students from Ilmenau, sister city of
Blue Ash, gathered during homeroom at Ursuline in Blue
Ash: From left, Anna Battiga, Ulrike Senfleben, Franziska
Wanderer, Luise Rothe, Trixi Pahlig, Linn Penelope
Micklitz, Simon Bauer, Frances Kohl.
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What a Season!
Ursuline’s volleyball team won the state championship,
remaining undefeated to the very end.
Fall Sports Highlights
Desirae Ball has been named one of the top soccer
players in Ohio by ESPN’s Rise. This list was compiled
by ESPN RISE editor Sheldon Shealer after consultation
with coaches and journalists from around the country.
Dani Reinert was named Gatorade Ohio Volleyball
Player of the year.
Jeni Case was named Coach of the Year by the
OHSAA volleyball coaches.
GGCL All Stars
Volleyball
Player/Coach of the Year: Dani Reinert, Jeni Case
1st team: Jade Henderson, Kori Moster, Dani Reinert
2nd Team: Christina Beer
Honorable Mention: Lauren Marlatt, Anna Prickel
Soccer
1st Team: Ali Backscheider, Desirae Ball, Gabby Hausfeld
2nd Team: Mary Allen, Katie Lucas, Caroline Reilly,
Erika Wolfer
Field Hockey – S W O F H L All Stars
Defensive Player of the Year: Megan Schnicke
1st Team: Maggie Allard, Megan Schnicke
2nd Team: Chelsea Rolfes, Nicole Mitchell
Honorable Mention: Ellie Robertson, Maddie Miller
Cross Country All Stars
1st Team: Dani Dailey, Katrina Maricocchi
2nd Team: Nikki Volpenhein
Honorable Mention: Tricia Hengehold, Pam Showman,
Katie Smith
Golf
1st Team: Kara Strasser, Megan Tenhundfeld
2nd Team: Sloane Hamilton, Kate Sabetta, Mika Suntay
Honorable Mention: Amanda Castle
Ursuline’s volleyball team immediately following their state championship game
Tennis
Player of the Year – Komal Safdar
Coach of the Year – Joe Hartkemeyer
1st Team Singles – Madison DeWitt, Komal Safdar
1st Team Doubles – Maggie Egan, Annie Sabo
2nd Team Doubles – Colleen Johns, Lauren Wenstrup
Honorable Mention Singles – Jenny Robertson
Thanks, Lions,
for a fabulous fall!
The student body applauds the volleyball team at a rally held in their honor.
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WINTER 2010
23
AROUND SCHOOL
Students Make Christmas Brighter
Help Out at Hope Emergency Program
By Ruthie Hurley
Community Service Coordinator
Ursuline Academy students made a difference again this
Christmas season through providing gifts to Hope Emergency
Program in Brown County. This year-round food pantry opens
a Christmas Shop each December, allowing registered parents
to pick out gifts for free for their children. Ursuline Academy
freshmen took time after school in October and November to
make jewelry that would be sold as a fund raiser for our Christmas project. Numerous students from all grades then worked
at our jewelry sale the first week of December. Through this
sale, and the gifts of a few faculty members, students were able
to raise over $1000, which was used to buy Christmas gifts. A
giving tree was also set up in our school lobby. From that effort, over 90 more gifts were donated by the UA Family.
Two groups of students then got the opportunity to spend a day
at The Hope Emergency Program. The first group delivered
all of our gifts and helped set up the Christmas shop, sorting
gifts and separating them by sizes and ages. They got the opportunity to visit with Sr. Lucia Castellini and Sr. Sandy Bates,
co-directors of Hope Emergency, and to learn more about the
clients served by this agency. Freshman Hannah Mehrle said
of this day, “I really liked that people care enough to make this
program work, and I am very proud to say that I helped them
out a little today. It has helped me to realize that gifts are not
a given for everyone at Christmas and that Hope Emergency
Program is their way of getting gifts. I will not think of Christmas the same.”
The second group of students spent a day serving as personal
shoppers at Hope Emergency. Each student would walk
through the shop with parents, helping them to pick out the
perfect gifts for the children in their family. Parents were able
to pick out a large gift, a small gift, and two clothing items for
each child as well as a game for the family. Freshman Anastacia
Taylor was one of the students who assisted parents as a personal shopper. She says, “I loved seeing their faces when they
found the perfect gift, or when they saw how much they could
give to their children this Christmas. I really felt like these
people need our help, and when they received it, they were
truly grateful.”
We are truly grateful to all who supported our Christmas
project this year.
Ursuline students traveled to rural Brown County
to help Hope Emergency Center prepare for the
Christmas rush. Front - Maggie Noschang, Gabby
Ventura; 2nd row - Ursulines Sr. Lucia Castellini and
Sr. Sandra Bates, Chelsea Zoellner, Kelly Mahoney,
Darcie Gorsuch, Hannah Mehrle, Ashley Abbate,
Community Service Coordinator Ruthie Hurley;
on ladder - Grace Ferguson and Ally Shultz
24
VOICES
WINTER 2010
Ursuline Academy
#1 Academic
Girls’ School in Ohio
The Ohio Graduation Test (OGT) is taken by Ohio’s high
school sophomores each March and it is the only instrument
administered to every 10th-grade student attending public,
private and charter schools.
An analysis of these test results, examining the performance of
all 1000+ schools together, was prepared by Gerber Analytics,
yielding the top academic schools in the state of Ohio. The
report lists the scores of Ohio high schools, ranking them by
the Ohio Department of Education’s performance index.
The 10 Top Academic High Schools in Ohio are:
1) St. Charles Preparatory – Franklin County
2) Cincinnati Country Day – Hamilton County
3) Seven Hills School – Hamilton County
4) Hathaway Brown High School – Cuyahoga County
5) Maumee Valley Country Day School – Lucas County
6) Ursuline Academy – Hamilton County
7) Ottawa Hills High School – Lucas County
Ursuline Academy in Blue Ash is the only all-girls’ school from
southern Ohio to appear in the top 15. With 99% of UA 10th
graders passing all 5 sections of the OGT (reading, math,
writing, science and social studies), Ursuline earned special
merit for having an extraordinary percentage of test-takers
score at an advanced level in reading - 81% - the highest of any
high school in the state. 2009 is the third consecutive year UA
has earned the designation of Ohio Academic Champion, and
is one of only three schools in the state (Hathaway Brown High
School in Shaker Heights and St. Charles Prep in Columbus)
who have been so honored. Ursuline is also the top academic
school in the GGCL League, according to this same study.
“The OGT is an excellent tool for
comparing the success of our efforts
at Ursuline relative to other schools
in the state. We are very pleased with
the exceptional performance of our
students on this test and on the other
standardized tests they take in high
school—and see these scores as both
a reflection of what they’ve learned
as well as a predictor of their academic
success when they leave Ursuline.”
8) Walnut Hills High School – Hamilton County
9) St. Xavier High School – Hamilton County
10) University High School – Cuyahoga County
– Sharon Redmond,
President, Ursuline Academy.
VOICES
WINTER 2010
25
AUCTION 2009
A Winter Wonderland to Remember
On November 21st Ursuline Academy’s Schildmeyer Gallery
and Besl Theatre turned into a Winter Wonderland. Hundreds
of silent auction items covered the gallery and theatre. The
dinner tables, covered in light blue cloth and white napkins,
had tall winter branch centerpieces which added to the clean
crisp winter look. The live auction heated up when Auctioneer Lance Walker took the stage. The Auction generated
$293,000 in sales and cash donations. Monies from the auction, along with the raffle, and annual fund benefit Ursuline’s
programs and students directly. Paddles flew into the air as
bids were out bid. The live auction generated a record breaking
$93,000. More than 100 volunteers generously donated their
time the night of the auction, which was preceded by eleven
months of planning by 400 generous volunteers.
Many thanks to all of the volunteers and guests, especially
Barb (O’Neill '74) and Alan Backscheider and
Michelle and Bob Morgan for co-chairing the event,
and Julie Schmitt Kelly '81 and Ginnie Donovan for
their strong live auction leadership. Planning is already
underway for next year’s auction which will be held on
November 20, 2010.
Kathy Allard, Sue Besl Price '80 and husband Dan Price
Jack & Kay Geiger
Principal Adele Iwausa, UA trustee Alan & Michelle McCoy
Dick Alderson, Missy Burns, UA trustee Patti Alderson, Brendan Burns
26
VOICES
WINTER 2010
Keith & Pam Olscamp, Jeff & Sheryl Wiener
Jim & Lisa Woodall
The Besl Theatre was a winter wonderland.
Raffle Chair Margie McCarthy Snelling '83
Co-chairs Michelle Morgan & Barb O’Neill Backscheider '74 with UA Director of Special Events Lori Haines.
VOICES
WINTER 2010
27
Kellie & David Carrier
Katie & Rob Noschang
Christy Horan with Katie Robertson
Auction Co-chair Barb O’Neill Backsheider '74, right, with daughter Kelly
Peggy Mitchell & Jill Ford
AUCTION
2009
28
VOICES
WINTER 2010
Donor Recognition Dinner Honors Four
2009 Women of the Years
Ursuline Academy is proud to announce the 2009
“Women of the Years.” The honorees are Sr. Phyllis
Kemper '67 and Mrs. Beth Chapman Chance '98.
To be named a Woman of the Years is the highest
honor Ursuline bestows on her alumnae.
Women of the Years Sr. Phyllis
Kemper & Beth Chapman Chance
stand near the display that honors
them outside the chapel.
President Sharon Redmond with
our beloved Sr. Cecilia.
Sr. Phyllis Kemper graduated from Ursuline Academy on
Oak Street in 1967, and joined the Ursulines of Brown County
as a postulant upon graduation. After taking final vows, she
returned to Ursuline Academy to teach home economics at the
Blue Ash campus. Later, she was named Director of Internal
Management for the order, and in addition to her management duties, she was responsible for the care and welfare of the
elderly sisters. It was at this time that Sr. Phyllis felt called to
become a nurse.
She couldn’t immediately follow her calling, however – she was
first responsible for the herculean task of closing and razing the
huge Civil War-era Ursuline Motherhouse in Brown County,
and the construction of a new residence for the sisters there.
When that was accomplished, she went to nursing school and
continues her life of service today as a parish nurse in Overthe-Rhine and in North Fairmont, providing education, basic
medical care, and unique concern for the patients she sees. In
2004, Sr. Phyllis was recognized by the University of Cincinnati’s College of Nursing with the Florence Nightingale Award
for her extraordinary dedication, innovation and delivery of
direct patient care.
She was nominated for the Ursuline award by her classmates,
one of whom wrote, “Phyllis lives her social consciousness daily as
she carries out her calling. She walks very humbly with God in a very
caring, respectful and helpful way. She would never seek this award
for herself, but . . . there is not a more deserving person.”
Beth Chapman Chance graduated from Ursuline Academy
1998, and is one of the youngest alumnae ever to receive this
award. Beth earned her degree in education and began her
teaching career in an inner-city school, where she assumed she
would have the best chance to help those in need. When she
left that job for a teaching position in the Lakota school district, she was concerned that she might not have the same kind
of opportunity to care for those less fortunate than herself.
That’s when Beth met Brooke Aker.
Brooke was a special needs student at Hopewell school, and
Beth discovered that Brooke’s family faced incredible challenges in terms of the design of their home with two children using
wheelchairs and another child living with Crohn’s disease.
Sr. Phyllis’s family: front - Chris Kemper, Sue Belanger, Theresa Kemper, Sr. Phyllis
Kemper, Heidi Kemper, Nancy Kemper, Judy Westerman, Linda Kemper; row 2 Christy Kemper Jones ,Fr. Jeff Kemper, Matt Kemper, Tim Kemper, Mike Kemper,
Doug Westerman, Dave Kemper
VOICES
WINTER 2010
29
Beth’s family: front - Caroline Fox Duffy, Kim Hopkins Neltner, Megan Gossard, Julie Chapman, Joan Chapman (Grandma),
Terry Neltner Chapman, Cheryl Neltner Kircher, Jim Kicher; back - Mark Chapman, Ed Neltner, Eric Chapman, Beth Chapman
Chance, Samantha Chance, Ashley Chance, Ted Chapman, Lois and Gene Neltner (grandparents)
Helen Hurm '40 with Gail Koenig
Dick A’Hearn and Eileen Rogers
Classmates from the class of '67 turned out for Sr. Phyllis: Sally Hock Evans, Kathy Robson Devanney, Sue
Freking Showers, Patty Payne, Cathy Cahalan Silverman, Sue Behrends Smith, Ginger Graham Brezinski,
Sr. Phyllis Kemper, Ann Castelli Marchioni, Mary Elaine Hoetker Bogart, Marsha Klekamp Murphy
Beth and a group of fellow teachers formed a non-profit group –
Akers’ Angels – to raise funds for the family. Beth also sent the
Akers’ story in to “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, and organized a community effort resulting in more than 25,000 letters
sent to ABC television on the Akers’ behalf. In 2008, the Akers
family moved into their brand new home.
One of those nominating Beth for this award wrote, “I am so
proud of Beth for living out her faith, and for caring about other more
than herself. She has a heart for helping those in need.”
Dean Donovan with Megan & Mike McCuen
The “Women of the Years” program at Ursuline Academy began
in 1986 as part of the school’s 90th anniversary celebration in order to recognize and honor outstanding alumnae. Since then, 50
women have been honored as “Women of the Years” in recognizing their service to their families, church and community.
Martha McGraw with daughter Adele McGraw Craft and son Mike McGraw
30
VOICES
WINTER 2010
Connellys’ Generosity
is Recognized
Bill and Gail Lutter Strietmann '74, Susie Keating Lame '76,
and Sr. Ellen Doyle, OSU
Don & Phyllis Neyer with daughters Jenny Neyer Berg '79
and Donna Neyer Broderick '76
Ted and Beth Connelly have been named the recipients of
Ursuline Academy’s St. Angela Merici Leadership Award for
2009. Created five years ago to honor those whose financial
support of Ursuline spans many years, the award was named
for the foundress of the Ursulines. The Connellys join previous recipients Marian Kinker Brems '46, Robert and
Ruth Conway, the late John Muething, Don and Phyllis
Neyer, and Elroy and Elaine Kunkel Bourgraf '50.
The Connellys’ generosity is felt far and wide in the world
of Catholic education. They support the Catholic Inner-City
Schools Education Fund (CISE), and many other Catholic
schools as well as the religious orders that run them. In addition to financial support, the Connellys’ spirit of volunteerism
has helped many institutions. Beth Connelly volunteered at
Children’s Hospital in various departments for more than 20
years. She was an active member of Ursuline’s Mothers’ Club
while her four daughters were in high school, and maintains
her Ursuline connections through the Ursuline Women’s Club.
In addition to running a successful car dealership, Ted Connelly
found time to serve on the board of St. Mary of the Woods
College (Beth’s alma mater) and the board of the Dominican
Foundation for St. Joseph Province.
Through a family trust, the Connellys established a scholarship
at Ursuline that has provided assistance to students for nearly
ten years. St. Angela Merici, the foundress of the Ursuline
Sisters in the 1500s, believed that society could be transformed
through the education of women. The Connellys’ desire to
make an Ursuline education possible for students of the future
is the legacy for which they were honored at the school’s annual Donor Recognition Dinner.
Long-time English teacher Cathi Schellhous with former students
Kim Hopkins Neltner '83 & Caroline Fox Duffy '83
Board Chair Mike McGraw with El Bourgraf
& Anne Scheidler McGraw '68
Beth and Ted Connelly (center) are joined by family members Lisa and John Connelly,
Cathy Connelly Sharif '75, Laura Connelly '78 and Sharon Connelly McBeath '83.
VOICES
WINTER 2010
31
Run for the Lions
Second Annual 5K
Barb Rohs bestows the medals.
Families enjoyed a hearty breakfast post-run.
Fellowship, Friendship
& Fresh Air
November 15, 2009 was a warm and beautiful morning enjoyed by 275 runners and
walkers at Ursuline. The day began with 7:30
A.M. Mass, followed by the run. Run for the
Lions, initially established to benefit Ursuline scholarships, included students, current
parents, alumnae, and local runners. Medals
were awarded while the runners enjoyed a
full hot and cold continental breakfast and
live musical entertainment. A special thank
you to all of our sponsors, especially Fleet
Feet and First Watch, along with parent
coordinator Barb Rohs.
Kaitlin Habig Connelly '95 holding Finn, Dale & Kelly MacEachen Trush '95, Caitlin MacEachen Steininger 05 &
Andy Steininger, Katie & Bill MacEachen. Front - Blu, Quincy & Darby Trush; Miles and Mac Steininger.
Katie Coleman '11, Kate Sabetta '11 and Tasha Bell '11
32
VOICES
WINTER 2010
Former Trustee Dave Neyer is congratulated by his niece
and UA mascot Amy Berg '13.
$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$
RAFFLE GOES GREEN
Congratulations to $25,000
winner William Huesman
Ursuline Academy of Cincinnati held its 13th
Annual Raffle with this fall’s raffle restructured
as the Big Green Raffle. It provides much of
the needed funds to provide the students with
an excellent education, and to keep Ursuline
available to all qualified young women regardless
of cost. The Raffle ran from August through
November with the drawing held at the Ultimate
Auction on November 21, 2009. The first place winner
is a participant of our past House Raffle and was
delighted to win $25,000. Congratulations to William
Huesman, grand prize winner; Alan McCoy, $10,000
winner; and Shirley Woeste, $5,000. A special thank
you to our event captain, Margi McCarthy Snelling
'83, and parent volunteers Mary Goard, Tracie
Hoffman, Dawn Paxson, Karen Krammes and
Pam Lindsey who all came in weekly for two months
to assist in the processing of the raffle tickets.
$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$
Ursuline finds creative way to raise money in tough economic times!
Sporty!
Stylish!
Win!
Fun!
We are proud to announce the first ever Ursuline Academy
Ultimate Auto Raffle. The winner will choose from three
exciting cars. This is not a lease offer but full ownership of
the car. The three cars offered to the grand prize winner to
choose from are a Mazda Miata Convertible, Jeep Wrangler
Sport soft top, VW Beetle Convertible or a $20,000 Cash
Option. Nine additional $100 prizes will also be awarded.
How: Order online at www.uaraffle.org
or send in the attached entry form
Cost: Ticket price is only $50 each
Drawing: The drawing will be held April 23rd.
The last day purchases can be accepted is April 21st
Prizes: 1 Grand Prize Winner and
9 additional $100 winners
$20,000
CASH
VW Beetle
Jeep Wrangler Sport
Mazda Miata
Cash Option
All proceeds benefit the educational tradition of Ursuline Academy, allowing us to prepare young women
for college and beyond by nurturing their soul, intellect, heart and imagination.
2010 CAR
Name
Raffle
Number of Tickets Requested
at $50 each =
Payment Enclosed (Make checks payable to Ursuline Academy)
Address
Visa
City/State/Zip
Cardholder Signature:
MC
Account Number:
Phone
Student Sold by
Email
Your relationship to Ursuline
Class of
Ursuline Alumnae Sponsor
LEADERSHIP
SYMPOSIUM
by LisaWoodall
Ursuline graduates Linda Haller Sloan '75 and her twin Lisa Haller '75
were instrumental in putting on the school’s 2009 Leadership Symposium.
Mary Ivers, founder of
Dress for Success, was
the keynote speaker
On Friday, October 23, Ursuline Academy was the venue for a
groundbreaking leadership event connecting alumnae with current students. The 2009 Leadership Symposium, funded in part
by Lisa Haller '75 and Linda Haller Sloan '75, challenged
current Ursuline students to be leaders throughout their lives
in every endeavor they choose to pursue during and after high
school.
The event kicked off with an address from the Haller sisters
and a keynote address from Mary Ivers, President, CEO and
founder of Dress for Success Cincinnati. The symposium featured 40 Ursuline alumnae representing different disciplines,
who led breakout sessions about their chosen careers, how they
define and demonstrate leadership, and how they have integrated the school’s core values into their daily lives. The alumnae
participating represented a wide range of ages and professional
experiences in the fields of business, education, entertainment,
law and athletics.
More than 700 students took advantage of this unique opportunity to hear from Ursuline alumnae and the alumnae had
a chance to see their alma mater in action preparing young
women for their futures as it has for 113 years.
Lisa Haller and Linda Haller Sloan (identical twins) approached
Ursuline with the idea of sponsoring the symposium in appreciation of the leadership opportunities they enjoyed while
students at the academy in the 1970s. In the years since college
and graduate school, both women have achieved tremendous
professional success in their chosen fields while never forgetting
the lessons they learned as high school students at Ursuline.
34
VOICES
WINTER 2010
Lisa Haller is Director of Sales and Marketing at Galt House
hotel in Louisville. Prior to joining the Galt House she served
as President of the Cincinnati Convention and Visitors Bureau.
Additionally, she held the position of Vice President of Sales at
Universal Studios in Hollywood where she managed 56 employees and was responsible for generating $90 million in revenues. For 18 years, Haller was the Director of Sales and Marketing at the Hyatt Regency in Los Angeles where she gained a
reputation as an industry leader known for breakthrough sales.
She is currently on the Board of Trustees at Talbert House, a
member of the American Society of Association Executives,
Greater Louisville CVB, Marketing Advisory Council and the
Louisville Branding Alliance. Haller is an avid runner and has
competed in several marathons.
After four years in private law practice in Washington, D.C.
and Los Angeles, Linda Haller Sloane joined the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) as a policy attorney. She has
held numerous positions at the FCC, including in the Office of General Counsel and as Associate Bureau Chief of the
FCC’s International Bureau. Linda’s areas of expertise include:
national security, homeland security, satellites, spectrum and
international communications. While at the FCC, Linda has
served in several positions of distinction. In 2000-01, she was
a staff member of the “Commission to Assess National Security
Space Management and Organization” (Space Commission),
which was chaired by the Honorable Donald H. Rumsfeld.
After September 11, 2001, she served on the FCC’s Homeland
Security Policy Council. Linda worked in the White House
for five years (August 2004-July 2009) in a policy position in
the Office of Science and Technology. She served during both
President George W. Bush’s and President Barack Obama’s Administrations. Linda provided legal guidance and policy analysis
regarding national security and emergency preparedness communications and continuity of government issues, seeking to
ensure the ability of the Federal government and the nation to
communicate in a crisis.
Tiffany Wilson '03 discusses communications,
journalism and life as a news reporter.
Amy Hackett '99, account executive
Broadway actress Sharon Wheatley '85 described life
in show business and the writing of her memoir
When the Fat Girl Sings.
Jenny McGraw '00, educator
Law Student Laura Hils '01 and attorney Betsy Sundermann '94
Betsy Beckman '75, movement artist, began
and ended the day with prayer interpreted
through dance.
Alums Bring Back Experience
The Leadership Symposium brought more than 40 speakers to Ursuline to share their insights and inspiration with
students. The value of their Ursuline foundation was a common theme. The complete list of participants is as follows:
Betsey Beckman '75
Liturgical dance, spiritual direction,
expressive arts
Gabrielle Blocher Bolton '94
Director of Research at Nuru Intenrational
Margaret Brecount Burleigh '92
Mother and home educator
Jenny Breissinger Grathwohl '88
Math teacher, athletics
Sharon Butler Davis '70
Owner of The Bonbonerie
Elizabeth Edwards '00
Venture capital investor
Vanessa Freytag Nobile
Executive Director, The Women’s Fund
Amy Hackett '99
Account Executive, Metropolitan Life
nsurance Company
Judith Harmony
Community advocate for girls’ health,
senior scientist at Harmony Garden,
growing healthy girls through research
and education
Stacey Herr Linnemann '96
Speech-Language Pathologist
Laura Hils '01
Law student, editor of the Human ,
Rights Quarterly
Jennifer Jackson Nolan '91
District Technology Integration
Coordinator, adjunct professor
Phyllis Kemper, OSU '67
Parish Nursing /Good Samaritan
Hospital–TriHealth
Katie Kindle Donovan '02
Project Coordinator/Manager at
Sesame Workshop
Anne Krehbiel Einspanier '73
Attorney at Krehbiel Law Office
Libby Lame '04
Teacher/coach
Emilie LaRosa Schmidt '95
Owner and Artistic Director of Broadway
Bound Dance Academy
Kristin Stackpole Ward '91
Clinical staff physician at Children’s
Hospital Medical Center Emergency Dept.
Caitlin Steininger MacEachen '05
Partner and chef, Cooking with Caitlin
Jenny McGraw '00
Special Education Teacher
Betsy Sunderman '94
Assistant Hamilton County prosecutor
Bridget McGraw Gannon '96
Commercial Counsel, GE Aviation
Melissa Morrissey Wilson '92
Staff pharmacist- skilled care pharmacy
Kelly Trush MacEachen '95
Partner, Cooking with Caitlin
Amy Pennekamp '99
Attorney at William E. Hesch Law Firm, LLC
Mara Richards '96
Pediatric psychologist at Cleveland Clinic
Children’s Hospital; Director, postdoctoral
fellowship in pediatric psychology at
Cleveland Clinic Children’s Hospital
Molly Sandquist '95
Partner, Cooking with Caitlin
Puck Schoettmer-Stoeckle
Donovan '46
Realtor
Linda Haller Sloan '75
Federal Communications Commission
Sharon Wheatley '85
Broadway actress and published author
Tiffany Wilson '03
Reporter for ABC7/NewsChannel 8 in
Washington DC
Jen Trokhan '95
Senior special events coordinator, Juvenile
Diabetes Research Foundation
Lisa Haller '75
Executive director, sales & marketing, Galt
House Hotel
Kelly Collison
Dress for Success
Mary Crawford
Dress for Success
VOICES
WINTER 2010
35
ALUMNAE NEWS
Mary Ann Ballman Lynch '67
Marathon, FL
In October of 2008 my father passed away, due to bladder
cancer. It was exactly four weeks after his 90th birthday. We
were so pleased that my two brothers, Robert and John, along
with my sister Ethel and I, were there to celebrate his 90th. We
know that he really made an extreme effort to stay alive for this
event, especially since we are all so far away (geographically)
and he was so looking forward to the event. My mother,
Marjory Brennan Ballman '39, was so grateful for the 65 years
they were together.
On a happier note, in September 2008, I was awarded a
signature membership in the Florida Watercolor Society, which
is the largest watercolor society in the country. Currently, there
are over 1,400 members and only 126 of them have achieved
“signature” membership.
I also want to compliment the staff who produced the
publication “Voices”. It is truly a fine example of the excellence
fostered at Ursuline.
rtannie@bellsouth.net
Diane Neyer Rose '74
Cincinnati, OH
Hi girls! I was so sorry to miss the Reunion for our 35th! I was
sorry as well to miss seeing many former students from my
earlier years as a teacher. I was vacationing with my husband
in Utah - mountain biking, hiking a 16 miler in the canyons of
Bryce and Zion, and repelling down some 'slippery rock’. It
was another adventure to celebrate 30 years of marriage this
past fall. There were no bears or tent though, this year! Despite
being a non athlete the first 25 years of my life, I have now
completed my 14th marathon, having done all the 11 Flying
Pigs. I’m still not coordinated, running and biking just require
that you keep your eyes on the road ahead and have some
determination to keep going.
Stop by the top floor of the new UA science wing and see the
Periodic Table of Ursuline Quilt, which I made in cooperation
with my classes and one very organized lab assistant! It is 7 feet
by 4 feet and filled with many memories.
36
VOICES
WINTER 2010
Being back teaching at UA has been both fun and challenging!
Chemistry remains a tough subject for sophomores, but I am
also happy to teach some of the best high school girls in the
city! Stop by anytime during the school year to say hello..or
look me up on facebook!
drose@ursulineacademy.org
Barbie Greiwe '80
Chicago, IL
I am currently a preschool teacher and going to receive my
Master’s in early Childhood education and graduating in June
2010 from DePaul University in Chicago. I am pursuing being
a voiceover actress. I am writing children’s books and trying to
get them published.
rellastars@aol.com
Hanh Nguyen '83
Nichole Nguyen, daughter of Hanh Nguyen '83, niece of Lan
Nguyen Tran '76 , Lynn Nguyen '79 and Ha Nguyen Tham
'88 won 4 medals at the national swimming competition held
on July 31 – August 1, 2009 in Colorado springs, Colorado.
The medals include a gold medal for the 50 yard individual
backstroke in the 9 and 10 year-old division, a Silver Medal in
the 200 yard medley relay team in the 12 and under division, a
Silver Medal in the 200 yard freestyle relay team in the 12 and
under division, and a bronze medal for the 200 yard freestyle
relay team in the 10 and under division. Way to go Nichole!
Jennifer Kolde Wade '84
Springfield, OH
For nine years I have been the HR director for the Clark
County Board of Developmental Disabilities. Busily following
our children – Garrison, 15, a high school junior playing
football and power lifting and Cayla, 13, an eighth grader in
band and choir. We are active in our church in various ways
(Northside Baptist) including youth group, missions and
vacation Bible school. In our free time, my husband John and I
enjoy exercising and riding motorcycles.
Laura Lee Kavanagh '85
Angeli Alino Breen '87
Cincinnati, Oh
Summit, NJ
I recently opened a new business, Pink Purse Creative, where
I am able to apply my expertise in graphic design with my
entrepreneurial spirit, to design and market handmade greeting
cards. It’s so great to be immersed in the world of art and
bring a little joy into others’ lives especially knowing it is being
shared with loved ones.
My designs are a mix of paper piecing, collage and hand
lettering with some embellishments thrown in. I’ve been
fortunate that my cards are carried exclusively at The Gift
Box in Mt. Lookout (two doors down from Zip’s) and have
participated in Trunk Shows at Poeme (Hyde Park) and the
Legendary Run Arts & Crafts Show. I also have an online
shop where anyone can take a look at my work. Additionally,
I love to do custom work including invitations, personalized
stationery and other graphic design projects!
I am indebted to Ursuline for giving me the self-confidence
to pursue new business opportunities, the education to
make it successful and the staff for letting me believe I can
accomplish anything! Thank you and may 2010 bring joy and
fulfillment to all my Ursuline sisters. Pink Purse Creative by
pinkpursecreative on Etsy (www.pinkpursecreative.etsy.com)
Facebook / Handmade Cards by LLK Twitter: cailin3
LinkedIn:www.linkedin.com/in/lauraleekavanagh
cailin3@roadrunner.com
I am currently living in Summit, New
Jersey with my husband, Ken, and
sons Griffin (10) and Noah (8). I am
founder and owner of Beadluxe which
are boutiques and make-your-ownjewelry workshops in New Jersey. We
also have an online store www.BeadLuxe.com. I would love to
hear from any fellow Ursulines. I can be reached via cell (908)
347-8186 or email Angeli@beadluxe.com
Elizabeth Weston Guerra '88
Miami, FL
I started a catering company (Relish Miami, LLC) almost two
years ago, after 10 years as a commercial electrical consultant
for architects and engineers. It’s been quite the circuitous route
from electrical/lighting consultant to full time chef/business
owner, but I’ve had lots of fun. I’ve been married for 8 years
and have a 7 year old son, and two stepchildren ages 15 and 9.
I was recently featured in dailycandy.com and well as in
Florida Biz Bash in the July edition. In addition to my catering
company, I’m also a regular food contributor for StepMom
Magazine (an online magazine) and finishing my first cookbook.
I’ve been so happy to give back to the Miami community via
my catering company. In the past two years I’ve done a number
of not-for-profit events with the Junior League of Miami,
Trinity Episcopal Cathedral, as well as other local charities.
Ursuline Academy’s emphasis on giving back is still a big part
of my life and I can’t say enough about what a joy it is to do
something you love and be able to give back at the same time!
Elizabeth@relishmiami.com
Chrissy holds her winning entry,
Peace & Joy in Eden Park
Chrissy Breslin Schroeder '85,
was a winner in the fourth annual Holiday Card
Contest, which engages local artists and benefits
ArtWorks, a local non-profit. Area artists were
invited to participate by showcasing a favorite
local green space, park, nature preserve or
garden in winter or dressed up for the holiday
season. Congratulations, Chrissy!
VOICES
WINTER 2010
37
Pam Emmerich Lefrancois '88
Kings Beach, CA
I have enjoyed the recent Ursuline Voices magazines. I love the
new logo and I really enjoyed the explanation of how Ursuline
got there. The article was extremely well written and I hope
helped some people who may have struggled with the change.
I can’t believe how many of my teachers are still teaching at
Ursuline! So sad that I missed our reunion last year and the
opportunity to catch up with them and my classmates. The
worst part about it is I missed the reunion for a wedding and
they’ve already split up!
Sorry for the long update but it’s been a long time! I got
married here in Lake Tahoe to my best friend and play buddy,
Mike Lefrancois, in September 2005. Mike and I met skiing
with a mutual friend. It was great to have Ellen Hilliard
Buell come out and join us for the festivities. Mike’s originally
from Connecticut but graduated from the University of
Vermont. He’s a Civil Engineer and works for a local firm.
We bought our house in Kings Beach, CA in North Lake Tahoe
about five years ago. We’re finishing up a completely “green”
remodel on our house. Our commitment to green building was
recognized by our home being selected to be a Case Study in
the Sierra Green Building Association 2008 Green Resource
Guide.
I’ve been working for our local sewer, water, and recreation
governmental agency for almost 5 years now. I work on a
wide variety of projects that keep my job interesting; from
project managing some Erosion Control Projects, to helping a
community group fundraise for a new playground, to managing
the development of a new website and corporate identity for
our agency and designing and putting together the monthly
newsletter that goes out to residents, and most recently
helping the small Conference Center that our agency owns to
implement a new software system. My days are never dull and
it’s nice to work, be involved and really have a visible impact on
the community that I live in.
We’ve kept ourselves busy for the last few years trying to finish
our remodel, but spend all our free time playing…that’s why
we live in Tahoe! Summers are spent riding mountain and road
bikes as well as squeezing in some backpacking, hiking and
beach time. Our winters are filled with skiing of all varieties;
Nordic, backcountry and at Alpine Meadows, our favorite
resort. We love to see live music and are lucky to live very close
to a great venue that draws in a lot of bands on their way to or
from San Fransisco. We volunteer with the Tahoe Nordic Search
and rescue Team which goes out and searches for people that
get lost in the woods, but we also spend time in the local school
teaching about winter safety and put on a 30km Nordic Ski
Race which is our annual fundraiser and the biggest race West of
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VOICES
WINTER 2010
the Mississippi. Mike and I also help out with our local business
association to help with the design of our soon-to-be-developed
downtown and to organize various events that bring people
to our area and make our town a fun place to live. We have no
problem keeping ourselves really busy!
If you are coming out to Tahoe, please feel free to get in touch
with me.You can find me through Ursuline on Facebook or
email me.
tahoebuckeye@gmail.com
Emily Stolz Barry '92
Oak Harbor, OH
I have some good news as well as some bad news that I’d like
to share with the Ursuline community. On the good side, I
recently started a new job as the Vice President of Advancement
and Recruitment for the Kateri Catholic School System in the
Toledo, Ohio area. I am responsible for leading marketing,
recruitment and development activities for this newly formed
school system which consists of two elementary schools, a
middle school and Cardinal Stritch High School.
For the bad news…my husband died unexpectedly on July 14,
2009. I have been overwhelmed with love, support and prayers
from my UA classmates.
ebarry@katerischools.org
Lisa Kramer Filipkowski '95
Cincinnati, OH
I received my B.S. in Biology at Xavier University and then
went on to medical school at UC, which I completed in 2004.
I recently finished my residency in urologic surgery (5 long
years!). In June 2007, I married Craig Filipkowski, a high school
health teacher at Winton Woods. We had our first baby, Elise, on
May 19, 2009. We moved into our new home in Montgomery
over the summer and I recently started a new job at the
Veteran’s hospital, here in Cincinnati.
Emilie Schmidt LaRosa '95
Cincinnati, OH
Hello Ursuline friends! I am happy to announce the birth of
our son Michael William LaRosa on October 1, 2008. I live in
Cincinnati, OH with my new son and my husband, Nicholas. I
opened a dance studio, Broadway Bound Dance Academy, in
Loveland, OH in 2003. I started running marathons to help
raise money and awareness for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.
I have 6 marathons and a handful of half-marathons under my
belt. I am training for the Flying Pig half-marathon with the
Team for Life organization. I hope everyone is doing well! I
would love to hear from you!
Ems771@aol.com
Katy Evans '03
Brighton, MA
Katy is currently working at Boston University having
completed her Masters at Kings College, London. She is
engaged to be married in Boston in Summer 2011 and is
applying to go back to college to do her PhD.
Wendy Goodwin Ramalingam '03
Iowa
I wanted to share the news of my wedding on August 8, 2009
at the Manor House, in Mason, Ohio. I married my college
sweetheart, Suraj Ramalingam. We both attended the University
of Cincinnati College of Engineering and graduated in 2008. He
now works for Procter and Gamble in Iowa City, IA and I am
starting my second year of medical school at the University of
Iowa Carver College of Medicine.
goodwiwg@gmail.com
Jane Coaston '05
St. Louis, MI
Shelly Moelller '05
Emily Blocher Weddle '96
Cincinnati, OH
I am currently the Costume Designer at Anderson High School
and teaching Acting Classes at Cincinnati’s Playhouse in the Park.
emweddle@hotmail.com
Meg Sweeny Harrison '00
Cleveland, OH
After earning my Masters at the University of Dayton, I moved
to Cleveland to teach at Urban Community School. I teach fifth
and sixth grade language arts at Urban Community School.
Urban Community School is sponsored by the Ursuline Sisters
of Cleveland. On July 19, 2008, I married Kevin Harrison at
Saint Xavier Church in Cincinnati. Kevin and I met at John
Carroll University and reside in Avon, Ohio.
Msweeny04@gmail.com
I am a reporter with the Saint Louis Post-Dispatch, a position
which I was awarded as part of a fellowship I was given for my
work as Editor-in-Chief of the Michigan Review, a newspaper
at the University of Michigan. For my history degree, I wrote
an honors thesis on Nazi propaganda before and after the Battle
of Stalingrad, for which I won the Stephen J. Tonsor Best Oral
Presentation of Thesis award.
jcoaston@post-dispatch.com
Shelly Moelller '05
Naval Academy Senior standout Shelly Moeller was named the
Patriot League Preseason Defensive Player of the Year while the
Navy women’s soccer program was selected as the favorite to
capture its third league crown in four years according to the
2009 Patriot League Preseason Women’s Soccer Poll released
on Wednesday. Shelly has started every soccer game of her
collegiate career. Her 89 consecutive starts are both a Navy
and Patriot League record. With 18 career goals and 43 career
points, Moeller is the highest-scoring defender in the history of
the Navy women’s soccer program.
Gabrielle Soltys '05
Washington, DC
I recently graduated from Georgetown in May and am staying
in DC to work for the Department of Justice. I’m enjoying the
work so far.
gabriellecsoltys@gmail.com
VOICES
WINTER 2010
39
TRADITIONS
These 2009 alums have been Secret Santas since their freshman year. Here they gather for a holiday
dinner. From left – Emily Foster, Rebecca Callahan, Christina Jackson, Kelsey Haines, Shelly Jahn,
Michelle Merchak, Emily Albrinck and Rachel Merchak.
Meg Schneider Lynch '96 stopped by to see the new
school and to introduce her firstborn, daughter Adelaide.
Meg’s mother is Pam Sweeney Schneider '65.
Our youngest alumnae, the class of 2009, followed the Christmas tradition of returning for the Christmas assembly. This is a great mini-reunion for
the class home on break after their first semester of college
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WINTER 2010
Members of the Class of 1967 gathered at Patty Payne’s
home for their annual Operation Florence Nightingale
Luncheon. OFN has brought the class together from both
near and far. Since inception 5 years ago, over $17,000
has been raised for Sister Phyllis and her ministry. The
ladies also took this opportunity to celebrate their 60th
birthdays.
Back Row: Lois Kammer Hanselman, Virginia Graham Brezinski, Lynn Nobis
Cracchiolo, Sue Freking Showers, Ann Ballman Lynch, Judy Hollmeyer Parker,
Elaine Hoetker Bogart, Mary Ann Humbert Matthews, Mary Collins, Margaret
Ahlrichs, Patricia Payne, Kathy Robson Devanney.
Middle Row: Marsha Klekamp Murphy, Gail Plogsted Moe, Sue Behrends Smith,
Jane Roth Lake, Sue Nienaber Klekamp, Sandy Stuerenberg Donovan,
Jane Schmithorst Oatway, Kathy Wiethe.
Front Row: Jane Schlanser Paris, Maureen Klonne Luis, Sister Phyllis Kemper,
Marguerite Ortman Doll, Sally Hock Evans, Sue Sedler Shauberger.
Ann Castelli Marchioni is the photographer.
The Graham sisters (minus Pam Graham Anderson '63)
came together in Columbus, Ohio for the wedding of
Jan Graham’s '67 daughter Katie '01. From left - Sara
(Peach) Graham '74, Paula Graham Posival '65, Gaea
Graham Morris '70, Ginger Graham Brezinski '67, Jan
Graham '68, Jill Graham Godfroy '68. Other alums
present were Lizz Godfroy '94, Megan Burns '20 and
Anne Scheidler McGraw '68.
FRIENDSHIPS
VOICES
WINTER 2010
41
Marriages
Sue Baldwin '61
Danny O’Dea 6.18.09
Margot Hinckley '00
Casey Barber 9.20.08
Lynn Huber '65
Bob Norris 11.7.09
Laura Kellison '00
Jon Meyer 9.05.09
Jennifer Kolde '84
John Wade 7.04.09
Mary Lenhart '00
Stephen Worth 9.20.08
Jenny Carroll '85
Mike Ginn 10.03.09
Meg Sweeny '00
Kevin Harrison 7.19.08
Shannon Costello '92
Tony Clark 5.21.09
Katie Weber '01
Matthew McGaughy 8.29.09
Torri Saal '94
Bill Calver 10.25.08
Megan Chesko '02
Jeff Reisert 7.12.08
Beth Chapman '98
Ashley Chance 7.18.08
Wendy Goodwin '03
Suraj Ramalingam 8.08.09
Heather Ernest '99
Erik Pfingsten 3.28.09
Bridget Mustard '05
Jason Sparks 7.11.09
Lynn Huber ’65 married Bob Norris on November 7. Martha Broerman
Brosz ’65, left, was matron of honor and Bob’s nephew, Mike Graham,
was best man.
Mary Lenhart '00
married Stephen Worth
on September 20, 2008.
Eight fellow members of
the Class of 2000 were in
attendance: Top step, left
to right: Erika Schmidt,
Blair Teixeira Telford,
Elizabeth Brauer and
Sarah Henry
Meg Sweeny '00 married Kevin Harrison on September 19, 2008. With her Ursuline classmates,
left to right: Erin Gregory Eiser '00, Meg Sweeny Harrison '00, Jessica Honnerkamp '00, Melissa
Eckert Linville '00, Ann Zesterman '00 and Nicole Godfrey '00
Wendy Goodwin Ramalingam '03 and her two sisters,
Violet Goodwin '13 and Jennifer Goodwin
Bridget Mustard and Jason Sparks were married July 11, 2009. From left – Emily ’04 and Becca ’07
Mustard, Jason and Bridget, Barb Neyer Mustard ’76, Larry and David Mustard
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VOICES
WINTER 2010
Wendy Goodwin
Ramalingam '03 and her
Ursuline classmates at
her Indian-Style Wedding
on August 8, 2009 – (L
to R) Jennifer Bifro '03,
Jeni Peters '03, Wendy
Goodwin Ramalingam '03
and Jennifer Frank '03
Megan Chesko Reisert’s
July, 2008 wedding had
many UA bridesmaids!
Top row, left – Lauren
Gorlick ’02, Brittany Utter
’02, Kelley Brandstetter ’02,
a friend, Meghan Murray
’02, a friend; front left –
a friend, a friend, Megan
Chesko Reisert '02, Michelle
Chesko ’05 and Meghan
Brady '02
Katie Weber '01 & Matthew McGaughy
married August 29, 2009 in Columbus, Ohio
Emily Blocher Weddle '96 - baby Henry
Dominic Weddle
Corinne Wehby Bridges '98 with her two
Kelly Iwanusa Farkas '88 with her
sons, Gabriel 11, and Kelly 2
mom, UA principal, Adele Iwanusa
and her three daughters – Annie, one
year old Peyton and Kelsey Farkas Ursuline Academy, here we come!
Births
Beth Chapman Chance '98 with six month old
daughter, Samantha
Linda Vester Greenberg '83
Philippa (Pippa) Phelan 7.28.09
Emily Meyer Breeze '93
Lydia Deborah 8.02.09
Stacey Linneman Herr '96
Zachary Jacob 12.04.09
Laura Bofinger Ansara '86
Daniella Marie 10.03.09
Lindsay Martin Wood '94
Phineas Colin 5.02.09
Emily Blocher Weddle '96
Henry Dominic 4.02.09
Kathleen Greiwe Alexander '89
Natalie Kathleen 12.10.07
Magdalene Claire 6.22.09
Kim Kroeger Geoppinger '94
Lucille Jane 12.08.09
Kerri Schoenhoft Myers '98
Ethan Robert 2.04.09
Megan Speaks Anderson '95
Kate Elizabeth 8.31.09
Beth Chapman Chance '98
Samantha Brooke 4.27.09
Lisa Kramer Filipkowski '95
Elise 5.19.09
Aimee Doxsey Reeder '01
Madison Noelle 12.16.09
Isabella Grace 12.17.09
Regan McGinn Van Kerckhove '91
Isabel Frances 3.31.09
Elise Royer 3.31.09
Stacey Johnson Guy '92
Avery Fallon 9.19.09
Melissa Catlin McNaughton '92
Michaela Elizabeth 5.17.09
Emilie Schmidt LaRosa '95
Michael William 10.01.08
Casey McKeown '96
Lucas Edward Copley 10.19.09
Lauren Dadas Dryer '04
Wyatt Jay 8.01.09
VOICES
WINTER 2010
43
In Memoriam
We extend our deepest sympathy to the following students and alumnae:
Loretto Humbert '36
12.16.09
Margaret “Peg” McGovern '52
8.02.09
Kay Weiner Novello '55
8.24.09
Kathleen Sollinger Radel '69
12.31.09
Jamie France '07
8.28.09
Loraine Anzinger, mother of Robin (Jerry) Anzinger Galvin '65 and
Marti (Randy) Anzinger Brown '69 (12.11.09)
Robert Ballman, husband of Marjory Brennan Ballman '39; father of
Mary Ann Ballman Lynch '67 and Ethel Ballman Palm '70 (10.29.08)
William Barnett, step-father of Lynn Iacono Rolfson '70 & Rose
Mary Iacono Compton '73; step-grandfather of Elizabeth Compton '07,
Lindsay Rolfson '00 and Suzanne Rolfson '03 (9.20.09)
Christopher Barry, husband of Emily Stolz Barry '92 (7.14.09)
Frank Besl, brother-in-law of Mary Ann Besl; uncle of Kathy Besl
Alban '72, Therese Besl Swebilius '77, Linda Besl Peters '78, Sue Besl
Price '80, Judy Besl King '83 and Michael (Debra) Besl (6.30.09)
Linda Biddle, mother of Karen Biddle Andres '98 and Lindsey Biddle
Eckstein '00 (1.17.10)
Miriam Bluestein, grandmother of Brooke Bluestein '00 (7.10.09)
Richard Blum, grandfather of Ann Blum Rhodes '91, Kelsey Blum '06
and Katherine Blum O’Shaughnessy '97 (6.12.09)
Robert Bollman, father of Nancy Bollman Chalifoux '75 and Barbara
Bollman Salyers '78 (12.07.09)
Thomas Boster, father-in-law of Karen Lucht Boster '87 (7.25.09)
Ruth Brokamp, mother of Joanne Brokamp Johnson '68 & Jay (Teri
Kneer '79) Brokamp; grandmother of Stacey Johnson Guy '92 & Jenifer
Brokamp '08 (11.05.09)
Claire Busam, mother of Barbara Busam Kelly '81, J. Charles (Molly)
Busam, John (Stephanie Sudbrack '76) Busam and grandmother of
Megan Busam '05, Morgan Busam '08 and Anne Busam '08 (9.06.09)
Martha Buzek, step-mother of Ann Buzek Stromberg '75 and Nora
Buzek '88; step-grandmother of Lindsey Buzek '06 (9.27.09)
Joseph Camardo, father of faculty member, Janet (Jim) Frock
(9.15.09)
Viola Carroll, mother of Dennis (Jenine) Carroll; grandmother of
Melissa Carroll '12 (11.07.09)
Jeane Carter, mother of Tim (Kathy Whalen '70) Carter and
grandmother of Meghan Carter '02 (6.18.09)
Marjorie Cooper, mother of Maureen (Jim) Cooper Globig '74
(9.01.09)
Edward Crane, brother of Nora Crane ’76 and Heidi Crane ’77
(1.04.10)
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WINTER 2010
John Dankenbring, son of Tom & Melinda Dankenbring; brother
of Mary Dankenbring '02 and Jane Dankenbring '05 (6.18.09)
Joan Davis, mother of Lisa (Frank) Cleary and grandmother of
Chelsea Cleary '10 (7.22.09)
Dante DiTommaso, father of Dennis (Martha) DiTommaso;
grandmother of Adrienne DiTommaso '06 and Annette DiTommaso
'07 (7.10.09)
Charles Elmlinger, step-grandfather of Kelly Brandstetter '02
(8.15.09)
Mark Emerson, husband of Pat Sikorski Emerson '53, brotherin-law of Doris Sikorski Hughes '57, uncle of Catherine Hughes '88
and Patricia Hughes-Fitzgerald '91 (7.04.09)
Elizabeth Endres, mother of Joyce Endres Richter '61 (7.26.09)
Joseph Engelbert, father of Juliette Engelbert Stuard '84
(6.25.09)
Maureen Finn, mother of Cathleen Finn Long '84 (8.13.09)
Thomas Ford, husband of Joan Topmoeller Ford '48 (6.10.09)
Jamie France, daughter of Sandy Greenler (8.28.09)
Lola Franz, mother of faculty member Brenda (Dale) Kristof
(4.18.09)
Mary Helen Frazier, mother of Laura Frazier Merz '68 (6.25.09)
Madeline Garvin, mother of Madeline Garvin '72 and Julie
Garvin White '76; grandmother of Amy White '05 and Madeline
White '09 (7.15.09)
John “Jack” Geiger, father of Jack (Kay) Geiger and grandfather
of Morgan Geiger '12 (9.03.09)
Joseph Giffin, husband of Amy Wais Giffin '77
Robert Goettelman, father of Jeanna Goettelman (9.08.09)
Edward Hagins, father of Carly Hagins '05 (12.07.09)
James Harmeyer, grandfather of Sydney Feldhaus (1.26.10)
Edward Heenan, uncle of Jill Heenan Blackburn '95 (1.22.10)
Victor Huss, father of Beatty (Michael) Hodovanic and grandfather of Kelly Hodovanic '06 and Kristen Hodovanic '09 (11.18.09)
William Jackson, father of Marie (Patrick) Moone and Ed
(Lori) Jackson; grandfather of Christina Jackson '09 and Morgan
Moone '10 (6.16.09)
Dolores Kamp, grandmother of Jennifer Kamp Jolley '02 and
Meghan Kamp '04 (7.21.09)
Donald James Kellison, brother-in-law of faculty member Sue
(Bob) Kellison, uncle of Sarah Kellison Hendricks '00 and Laura
Kellison Meyer '00 (11.17.09)
Doug Kendle, husband of Kathryn Kendle, father of Jenna Kendle
'11 and Nicole Kendle (8.17.09)
Mildred Kirwin, mother of Kathleen Kirwin Gruber '61, Anne
Kirwin Ratterman '63, Bridget Kirwin Tibbetts '75; mother-inlaw of Bonnie Buchert Kirwin '58, grandmother of Katie Gruber
'86, Kristen Gruber '87, Kelly Gruber '92, Kara Gruber '95 and
Kathleen Gruber '04 (8.16.09)
Andrew Kleimeyer, son of Mary Bumiller Kleimeyer '64; brother
of Anne Kleimeyer-Thaman '97; nephew of Frances Bumiller
Corwin '56 and Ann Bumiller Finn '57 (6.03.09)
Leroy Klettner, father of Becky Klettner Haynam '76 and Amy
Klettner '78 (12.18.09)
Harold Knox, grandfather of Julie Hadden Orr '88 and father of
Karen Hadden, former UA Development Director (1.18.10)
Lillian Koch, grandmother of Lisa Koch Mack '84 and Karen Koch
'88 (12.07.09)
Sue Kokenge, mother of Kristy Kokenge Kleiman '75, Mary Ann
Kokenge '76, Emily Kokenge Kitchings '86, Jim (Kim) Kokenge, Amy
(Matt) Kokenge Uecker; grandmother of Michelle Kleiman '05, Amelia
Uecker '07, Katie Kokenge '02, Chelsy Kokenge '05 & Emma Kokenge
'09 (9.09)
Barbara Kreinbrink, aunt of Katie Vollman Sammarco '92 (1.25.10)
Jean LaBar, mother of Ann LaBar '83, Kate LaBar Smith '84 and Lisa
LaBar Prows '88 (8.09)
Harry Lehman, father of Barbara (Curtis) Lehman Chaney '76 and
Jenny Lehman '77 (9.10.09)
Mary E. “Beth” Leon, sister of Linda Schiering Mason '63 (7.26.09)
Richard Lindner, uncle of Debbie Kreuzman Gladstone '69, Denise
Kreuzman Lorenz '71 and Dianne Kreuzman Hill '73
Alex Milam, nephew of Julie (Brian) Milam Ross '76, Jane Milam
Altimier '76, Mary Gayle Milam Albeck '71 and cousin of Theresa Ross
'05, Mary Ross '09 and Frannie Ross '11 (10.06.09)
Lillian Milam, mother of Mary Gayle Milam Albeck '71, Jane (Jeff)
Milam Altimier '76, Julie (Brian) Milam Ross '76 and grandmother of
Theresa Ross '05, Mary Ross '08 and Frannie Ross '11 (11.30.09)
Paul Mitchell, father of Monica Mitchell '74 (7.16.09)
William “Billy” Montgomery, brother of Ann Montgomery Stern
'68 (10.02.09)
Gloria Murphy, grandmother of Heidi Gerber '98 (1.16.10)
Timothy Myers, husband of Sally Myers and father of Whitney Myers
'03 (9.24.09)
Daniel Naber, uncle of David Naber; great uncle of Mallory Naber
'06, Jenna Naber '10 and Kelsey Naber '10 (7.05.09)
Ruby Neil, mother of faculty member Justine Hendy (9.15.09)
Kay Weiner Novello '55, wife of Anthony Novello, mother of Amy
Novello Ullman '81; sister of the late Jean Weiner Johannigman Newbill
'47 and aunt of Marianne Johannigman Brokamp '73 (8.24.09)
Mary Elizabeth O’Neill, mother of Barb O’Neill (Allen)
Backscheider '74 and grandmother of Ali Backscheider '10 (6.30.09)
Therese Pamer, mother of faculty member, Maureen (Roger) Rettig
(7.13.09)
Linda Parker, mother of Robbin Parker-Shabazz '84 (12.17.09)
Jane Peters, mother of Cynthia Peters Male '69 (1.05.10)
Timothy Peters, father of Jeni Peters '03 (8.21.09)
Daniel Peterson, brother of Karin Peterson St. John '82 (1.10)
Anna Marie Pfarr, grandmother of Andrea Pfarr Switzer '94, Elena
Pfarr '92, Felicia Pfarr Kramer '97 and Maria Pfarr Spielman '95
(12.17.09)
Jacqueline Pflum, sister-in-law of Mary (Dan) Pflum Cassidy '85,
Sarah (John) Pflum Mock '82 and Joe (Kate) Pflum; aunt of Chelsea
Pflum '08, Rebecca Mock '12 and Charlotte Mock '10; daughter-in-law
of John & Barbara Pflum (12.09)
Robert Piening, brother of Sarah (Bob) Piening Furia '76 and Joanne
(John) Piening Scott '81; brother-in-law of Eileen (John) McDonald '75
(12.17.09)
Kathleen Radel ’68, sister of Mimi Sollinger Crotty '67 and cousin of
Margi McCarthy Snelling '83 (12.31.09)
Betty Ragelis, grandmother of Kathleen Ragelis '07 (9.09)
Thomas Reilly, grandfather of Maggie Reilly '06, Caroline Reilly '10
and Kate Reilly '12; father of Gerry (Jenny) Reilly (1.10.10)
David Reker, husband of Susan Drysdale Reker '64 (12.07.09)
Robert Robson, father of Kathy Robson Devanney '67, Nancy
Robson Johannigman '73, Janet Robson '74 and Meg Robson Lewis '78;
grandfather of Kerry Devanney '98 and Colleen Devanney Thesing '01
(1.19.10)
Joanne Romer, mother of Sue Ellen Romer '76 (7.03.09)
Maurice Rosselot, father-in-law of Mary (Mimi) Wais Rosselot '65
(9.07.09)
Jeanette Rozzi, mother of Louise Rozzi-Erdeljohn '76 (7.19.09)
John Roth, father of Peggy Sullivan (Mike) and grandfather of Emily
Sullivan '10 (9.14.09)
William Saal, father of Torri Saal Calver '94 (10.06.09)
Avery Sage, grandfather of Rebekka Sage '00 (1.19.10)
William Schickle, grandfather of Sarah Dorff '93, Amanda Dorff '02,
Rebecca Dorff '05 and Kristen Robinson '05 (7.14.09)
Rita Schmerge, mother-in-law of Valerie (Mike) Schmerge '73;
grandmother of Cari Schmerge '98, Christine Schmerge '02 and Connie
Schmerge '04 (1.28.10)
Ronald Shallick, husband of Margaret McKenna Schallick '65
(7.04.09)
Helen Spicer, mother of Lynn Spicer Martiny '65 (8.19.09)
Waneta Spreen, grandmother of Sandra Barrows '94 (1.10.10)
Elmer St. George, father of Sheila St. George Gick '90, father-in-law
of Jodi Graham St. George '80 (9.21.09)
Patricia Stephenson, mother of Robyn Stephenson Smith '76 and
John (Brenda) Stephenson; grandmother of Claire Stephenson '08 and
Olivia Stephenson '11 (7.01.09)
Robert Stonenberger, husband of Elizabeth Borchers Stoneberger
'87 (8.29.09)
Howard “Skip” Tolle, father of Mary Tolle Court '76 and grandfather
of Laura Court '12 (11.23.09)
Constance Tuttle, sister of Joe (Shirley) Speaks, aunt of Megan Speaks
Anderson '95 (1.25.10)
Robert VonHagel, father-in-law of Sharon (Bob) Tonges VonHagel '82
(7.24.09)
Pat Wallace, grandmother of Julianne Oester Gast '99 and Jill Oester
'01 (8.02.09)
Thomas Willemin, father of Karen Willemin Sims '81 (8.31.09)
Jane Willenborg, aunt of Kristy Willenborg '99 (12.11.09)
William J. Williams, father-in-law of Jenny Greiwe Williams '73
(8.24.09)
Ronald Woellert, father of Matt (Paige) Woellert and grandfather of
Taylor Woellert '13 (7.17.09)
Marie Wubbolding, sister-in-law of Sandie Trifilio Wubbolding '61
(8.19.09)
Faculty Members:
Brenda Kristof, Maureen Rettig , Justine Hendy and Robin Galvin
on the loss of their mothers; Janet Frock on the loss of her father;
and Sue Kellison on the loss of her brother-in-law
VOICES
WINTER 2010
45
2008-2009 ANNUAL FUND
BEHLER LADRIGAN GUILD
The Behler Ladrigan Guild, established in 1993, was named to honor
Gabriel Behler and Sister Xavier Ladrigan. The guild comprimised of
alumnae, parents and friends who have made a commitment to Ursuline
Academy of Cincinnati through an estate gift.
The Behler Ladrigan Guild
is comprised of friends
of Ursuline who have
remembered the school in
their estate planning. In the
last issue of Voices, the Donor
Honor Roll, we omitted the
names of the real members
of The Behler Ladrigan
Guild and inadvertently
published a different list of
names under that heading.
While we may devoutly
wish that all those who were
listed might consider making
a planned gift, here are the
people who already have. To
them we are most grateful
and express our sincere
apologies.
46
VOICES
WINTER 2010
We are pleaed to recognize the members of the Behler Ladrigan
Guild whose legacy will help secure a strong future for our school
and future generations.
Dick & Patricia Alderson
Ruth Grathwohl Anderson '55
Ruth Austing '33+
Harriet Hogan Barrett '31 +
Vincent Beckman
Kathleen Bertram '60
Mary Anne Besl
Gertrude Betz '25 +
Richard & Debbie Blum
Herman & Elizabeth Schlanser
Bolles '33 +
William & Pat Bonn
Elaine Kunkel Bourgraf '50
Marian Kinker Brems '46
Marianne Johannigman Brokamp '73
Ronald & Linda Brown
Hilda Cavanaugh
Robert & Ruth Jung Conway
Patricia Corcoran '65
Betty Seeger Dannenfelser '40
Jeanne Favret Dell '52
Nick Deters +
Julie Ledwin Driscoll '82
Kim Folz Egan '72
Gerald & Mary Gruber
Egelston '32 ++
Anne Einspanier '33 +
Mary Anne Dwyer Fritschner '77
Robin Anzinger Galvin '65
Virginia Kinker Gessing '43
Mary Dean Grote
James & Kim Hartman
Thomas Hemmer
Clothilde Rampe Herschede 1907 +
Edward & Mary Jo Hogan
William & Lynn Housh
Helen Hurm '40
Susan Gessing Jones '69
Jacqueline Kent Juenke '57
Marlene Hafer Lagemann '54
Thomas & Adele Lippert
Margaret Long '31
Anne Scheidler McGraw '68
Elizabeth Fisher Mott '49
Jeanne McDonough Murray '44 +
Donald & Phyllis Neyer
Karen Folz Perry '71
Barbara Pinzka '70
Cecilia Havlin Podesta '35 +
Sue Besl Price '80
Joan Kempf Reincke '42
Anthony & Regina Reis
Diane Fette Rinaldi '79
Evelyn Martina Sansone '37 +
Jewelle Schauer +
Madge Smith Scheidler '44 +
Timothy & Judy Schilling
Kay Brennan Siefert '38 +
Christine Bohmer Stewart '68
Margaret Farrell Stier '50
Thomas Sullivan +
Alfredo & Priscila Suntay
Elaine Grift Voorhees '39
Lois Grift Wanstrath '45
Patrick & Carole Ward
Sue Bressler West '57
Susan Wheatley '78
Sandra Trifilio Wubbolding '61
+denotes deceased
Help Ursuline Stay In Touch
The Ursuline community enjoys charting the progress of our talented graduates. We would appreciate your assistance
in keeping us informed of your journey. This can be accomplished in various ways:
1) Send an email to either dgruber@ursulineacademy.org OR mlapille@ursulineacademy.org.
2) You can also visit www.ursulineacademy.org and follow the link “For Alumnae” at the top of
the home page. From there click on “What’s New With You” and tell us what you are doing.
ALUMNAE
3) Or you can cut out the form below and mail it to Ursuline Academy Alumnae Office,
5535 Pfeiffer Road, Cincinnati, OH 45242.
First Name
Maiden Name
Last Name
Class Year
Home Address
Preferred Phone
Email Address
Business Name
Position
Business Address
Business Phone
Spouse Name
What would you like to share?
MAIL TO: Ursuline Academy Alumnae Office,
5535 Pfeiffer Road, Cincinnati, OH 45242
Can You Help Us Find These “Lost” Alumnae?
From time to time we lose track of our graduates. If you have any information about any of the alumnae
listed below please share with UA using any one of the forms of communication described above.
Class of 1995
Helen Barton
Karen Birri
Amanda Dorn
Diane Emmel
Casey Faber
Angela Geier
Sarah Goldberg
Class of 2000
Emily Guibord
Elizabeth Hawkins
Anne Kane
Kerri Kramer
Helenrose Lynch
Jamie McClanahan
Kelly McDonnell
Sara Morris
Olga Polusmiak
Andrea Price
Thewinta Rattanatam
Shelley Richter
Kelly Ryan
Nicole Wetsch
Jamie Wolever
Vanessa Ardaya
Shannon Boyle
Elizabeth Brown
Sarah Henry
Pranathi Lingam
Michelle Mitchell
VOICES
WINTER 2010
47
Non-Profit Org.
U.S. Postage
PAID
Cincinnati, Ohio
Permit No. 9614
5535 Pfeiffer Road
Cincinnati, Ohio 45242
C H A N G E S E RV I C E R E QU E S T E D
Parents:
If you are receiving this magazine at your home instead of at your alumna daughter’s, please send
us her address. Call (513) 791-5794 or email mlapille@ursulineacademy.org
Calendar of
Upcoming Events
Ultimate Auto Raffle
April 23
Senior Mother-Daughter Luncheon
June 3
Graduation
June 7
Golden Girls Luncheon
June 18
All School Reunion
Celebrating 0s and 5s
June 19
Generations Breakfast
August 11