VOICES W I N T E R 2 014 CONVERSATIONS Conversations About Communications Conversations About Championships Remembering a Sister 14 16 18 Voices is published four times a year to report school and alumnae news to parents, alumnae, and friends of Ursuline Academy. Dear Ursuline Community, In her eighth legacy, St. Angela encouraged her daughters to “…come together from time to time…so that, together like this, they might also meet each other as loving sisters, and thus, talking over spiritual matters, rejoice together, and together encourage one another.” On September 27, we welcomed back 49 alums for the biennial Symposium Day. As for the past two Symposium Days, this year’s was generously presented by Lisa Susan Haller and Linda Haller Sloan from the Class of 1975. This year the theme of the day was “Possibilities.” Our alumnae spoke to our students about their career paths – some of them direct, others less direct. We were thrilled that our very accomplished alumnae were able to share their stories with the students, and convey that change is part of any career. A few days after Symposium Day, we received the news that one of our sisters, junior Jordan Hoak, had passed away as a result of injuries sustained in a car accident. Jordan will be remembered as a wonderful classmate, friend, sister, and student, whose never-ending smile and exuberance for life inspired us all. We were overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support from the Ursuline community – current and past parents volunteered uncountable hours of help, members of the faculty and staff supported the students in every way they needed, and alumnae offered prayers for their sisters from near and far. In the span of a few short days, the Ursuline community experienced the whole of St. Angela’s eighth legacy – we came together to rejoice in the successes of our alumnae at Symposium Day, and we came together to encourage and pray for one another through the loss of a sister. On behalf of everyone at Ursuline Academy, thank you for your support in both. Peace, prayers, and happy new year, Sally Neidhard '05, Editor Director of Communications and Public Relations [email protected] Ursuline Academy Development Department Phone: (513) 791-5794 5535 Pfeiffer Road, Cincinnati, Ohio 45242 2013-2014 Board of Trustees Patricia Fox Alderson Gary M. Breissinger Sr. Lucia Castellini, OSU Sr. Ellen Doyle, OSU Kay Geiger Patrick C. Gilligan, Treasurer/Secretary Brian D. Hendy Adrienne Berning Kessling '82, Vice Chair Monica Donath Kohnen Paul Lechleiter Teresa Davis Mulligan '90 Usha Reddy Hal Robertson Brian A. Ross, Chair David K. Schmitt Kathleen Broderick Selker '73 Judy Wildermuth Wells '78 Administration Sharon L. Redmond President [email protected] Thomas M. Barhorst Principal [email protected] Mary Bender Assistant Principal [email protected] Jill Hallahan Assistant Principal [email protected] Diane Brunst Director of Finance [email protected] Sharon Redmond, President Timothy Ranaghan Director of Development [email protected] Kerri Kagler Schuman '86 Director of Alumnae Relations [email protected] Design: Anne Shannon Graphic Design Printing: The Jos. Berning Printing Co. 2 VOICES WINTER 2014 www.ursulineacademy.org FROM THE EDITOR & ALUMNAE DIRECTOR Dear Friends of Ursuline, It is with great awe and wonder that I introduce myself. To be back at the school that gave me four wonderful years, a passion for writing, and the foundation to turn that passion into a career, is such a blessing. When I arrived in July, I came to realize the full magnitude of stepping into the shoes that were previously filled by Robin Anzinger Galvin '65. I’ll certainly work to be considered worthy, but until then, I will simply thank her for building such a well-respected and beloved publication. Also upon my arrival, I realized that there was no way Voices could continue without something from Robin, and so I am grateful to share that she will be writing a regular column: Dear Robin. She is an absolute font of Ursuline knowledge and history and we do not want to lose that! Robin’s column will answer questions submitted by current students about the history of our school. I know I will look forward to reading it! Hello Fellow Ursuline AlumnaeI am so happy to be back at Ursuline—I’ve always been a proud alumna; today, as the parent of two Ursuline students I am reminded daily of the importance of an Ursuline education, and as an employee I am blessed to be part of a supportive and loving community. As I have transitioned into my role here, I have made an effort to get to know our alumnae. It’s important that I know who you are and what you are doing in order to connect with you. I am making an equal effort to get to know our students. It is important to me that I foster conversations between current students and you, our alumnae, who can offer them guidance and advice, because while many things may have changed since your time at Ursuline, the core values are the same and the bond of sisterhood can only get stronger. For this edition of Voices, we are highlighting the importance of coming together for conversations – especially between alumnae and our soon-to-be alumnae, our current students. This is an ongoing exercise of course, so I invite and encourage our alumnae to stay connected to Ursuline so that we can continue the conversations. I encourage each of you to reach out and let me know what you are doing. Is there something you would like to do with your classmates? …with current students? …with former teammates? Do you want to connect with other alumnae in your new city? If you have ideas, big or small, near or far, please let me know so we can make it happen. UA all the way, Sally Neidhard '05 I look forward to hearing from you! Kerri Kagler Schuman '86 In the 2012-2013 Honor Roll, Ramona Payne '76 was unintentionally omitted from inclusion among contributors at the Ursuline Circle level of The Julia Chatfield Society. We apologize for this omission and thank Ms. Payne for her contribution to Ursuline. F OL L O W U S O N FAC E B O O K : Ursuline Academy of Cincinnati VOICES WINTER 2014 3 FROM THE BOARD An Interview with Board Member Monica Donath Kohnen Tell us a little about your day job: I am a partner at the law firm of Graydon Head & Ritchey LLP, where I work with some fantastic people finding creative legal solutions for and counseling clients primarily in the business, real estate and banking sectors. I also have the privilege of serving on the Firm’s Executive Committee which gives me the opportunity to understand the business of law and to develop new ways to approach the practice that will benefit our clients in a rapidly changing world. On what Ursuline Board of Trustees committees do you serve? I serve as Chair of the Compensation Committee and am also a Member of both the Governance and Executive Committees at Ursuline. What is your connection to Ursuline? Our daughters, Erika D. Kohnen (Class of 2008) and Anna L. Kohnen (Class of 2009) are my connection to Ursuline. How did you get involved with the Board? Former Chairman of the Board, Michael McGraw, and President Sharon Redmond encouraged me to become involved with the Board. My involvement with the Board has increased my appreciation of the dedication of the faculty, administration, parents, friends and family of Ursuline to creating a positive and welcoming environment for UA students to thrive in academics, in the arts, in athletics and in the community. incoming freshmen to graduation day. I know Erika and Anna made friends for life and were surrounded by peers who had challenged each other in a good way to be better and stronger, yet celebrated their differences. Graduation was their send off party and thanks to the faculty and administration, all of these students were ready for launch as independent, confident, intelligent and compassionate leaders who would make their mark in their next adventures. I leaned back in my seat and thought, OK-GO! What has been the biggest change you’ve seen at Ursuline since you first became involved? I’ve seen two big changes in my time at Ursuline. The first being the transfer of responsibility to maintain the Ursuline values at UA from The Ursulines of Brown County to the Board of Trustees. The Legacy Agreement between the Ursulines and the Board was signed in 2011, in part in recognition of the fact that there are fewer women entering the order. This shift of responsibility, to maintain the values of Ursuline as set forth in the Ursuline’s Legacy Statement for Educational Institutions, when the Ursuline sisters are not physically present, was a big step for the Ursulines and the Board. All of us now have that responsibility going forward to maintain those values; and the second is the success of the Administration and the Board in addressing and planning for the long term future of Ursuline by implementing solid business strategies for finance, facilities and faculty. Any other thoughts? Our family feels fortunate to have shared the UA experience, so “thank you” to all who make up this wonderful UA community. What is your proudest Ursuline moment? Two graduations – Erika’s in 2008 and Anna’s in 2009 are my proudest Ursuline moments. During each of the graduation ceremonies, I had an opportunity to reflect on the Ursuline experiences of my daughters and their classmates. As I read through the names of the graduates, I thought about their many individual and collective accomplishments and their personal growth from the days they started as Ursuline Board member Monica Kohnen with her daughters Anna '09 and Erica '08. 4 VOICES WINTER 2014 www.ursulineacademy.org DEAR ROBIN Perspectives from our Former Voices Editor, Robin Anzinger Galvin '65 Gray hair and a chance to spout off. It was never my goal to become a gray-haired emeritus hovering around the cradle of my little labor of love, Voices. But when Sally Neidhard ’05 asked me to write this column, it seemed like a way to stay in touch with my beloved Ursuline school community. enjoy the ease of communication that technology provides. Just don’t think you’re entitled to an immediate response from your teacher anytime day or night. So it’s very interesting that the first “Dear Robin” question concerns communication methods and trends between students and faculty. It’s posed by senior Catherine Strietmann who asks: Technology’s not the most important change in the way teachers and students and all of the rest of us communicate with one another.You have only to watch any one of a gazillion reality shows to see that right now, right here in 2014, civility and kindness, if not dead, are on life support. There are many historical reasons for why this devolution occurred, but it is here, and we can do something about it, one conversation at a time, whether verbal or electronic. “Taking into account society’s constantly evolving communication methods, do you think that UA students currently communicate with their teachers the same way now compared to different times throughout UA’s history?” In a word, no. So let’s get the technological component out of the way. Imagine not having access to assignments, class content, grades or feedback from your teachers via the internet. Imagine no e-mail. Back in the Dark Ages, when I was at UA, we were taught by the Ursuline Sisters, who might linger for a while after school, but then disappeared into the mysteries of convent life. Our access was limited. There were clear boundaries to our interactions. The real issue. Let kindness, civility and reasonable boundaries guide your every post, tweet or conversation, and we’ll never have to talk about changes in communication again. The technology will evolve constantly, but we would do well to remain fixed on what should never have changed. This is what it means to truly “Find your Voice.” And in this way will our school community, our families and our neighborhoods, stand firm against a culture that loves nothing so much as a good fight. Thanks so much for the question, Catherine. Just remember, communication is not about all the techno geegaws; it’s about kindness and civility. Now that we’re all on call electronically every moment of the day, boundaries are more important than ever. So by all means, F OL L O W U S O N FAC E B O O K : Ursuline Academy of Cincinnati VOICES WINTER 2014 5 2 013 PRESIDENT’S DINNER Honoring Our Own On October 2, 2013, Ursuline Academy President Sharon Redmond welcomed members of The Julia Chatfield Society to the annual President’s Dinner where they honored the recipients of the Ursuline Woman of the Year, Outstanding Leadership Volunteer Award, and St. Angela Merici Leadership Award. 2013 Ursuline Woman of the Year, Tamara Kearney Lanier ’95, Ursuline President Sharon Redmond, Ursuline Principal Tom Barhorst, and 2013 Ursuline Outstanding Leadership Volunteer Award recipient, Jenny Neyer Berg ’79. English teacher Marilyn Parks Herring ‘68, Sister Pat Brockman, OSU, and former English teacher Letty Lavely ‘63. The evening began with mass celebrated in the Saint Angela Chapel by Father Jack Wessling, followed by dinner and the evening’s presentations. The first was the recognition of Faculty and Staff members celebrating significant anniversaries in their service to Ursuline including Ms. Marilyn Herring for 35 years of service, Ms. Betty Thaman for 30 years of service, Mr. Dan Nieman and Ms. Sharon Redmond for 20 years of service, Mr. Tom Barhorst and Ms. Patrice Trauth for 15 years of service, Ms. Jenny Breissinger, Ms. Donna Broermann, and Ms. Diane Brunst for 10 years of service. Dr. Sue Lytle was also recognized as the recipient of the 2012-2013 Sr. Xavier Ladrigan Excellence in Education Award. Ms. Redmond then presented the 2013 Woman of the Year Award to Tamara Kearney Lanier '95. The Woman of the Year program began in 1986 as part of Ursuline’s 90th anniversary celebration in order to recognize and honor outstanding alumnae. Ursuline’s Women of the Years have distinguished themselves in their careers, their service to others, their families, and their community. “Tamara has been successful in her career, she gives back to her community, and she’s given back to Ursuline in so many ways,” Ms. Redmond said. “Tamara served on our Board of Trustees from 2006 to 2012. In 2007, she was tasked with leading the rebranding of our school, which was no easy task. She began the project with a well-thought-out plan, she led the two-year project with wisdom and compassion, and she then presented the fantastic new brand to the community in a way that ensured everyone of the care that had gone into the process.” Eileen Rodgers, Susan Rodgers ’72, Mary Lou Dulle Boylan ‘45, and Guidance Administrative Assistant and past parent Sue Kellison. 6 VOICES WINTER 2014 The Outstanding Leadership Award was established in 2012 to recognize and honor alumnae, parents, or friends of Ursuline Academy for their loyal and exceptional volunteer leader- www.ursulineacademy.org ship to the school. The 2013 award was presented to Jennifer Neyer Berg '79. “Jenny was Chair of the Board of Trustees when we broke ground on the math and science wing,” Ms. Redmond said. “Her leadership ensured that we were able to complete that expansion, which allowed us to increase enrollment…After her work on the Board, Jenny has consistently been a tremendous volunteer on Mother’s Club and with the Ultimate Auction. She is an asset to the Ursuline community and we are so grateful for her service.” Finally, the evening ended with the presentation of the St. Angela Merici Leadership Award. This award was established in 2004 to recognize those benefactors whose extraordinary generosity to Ursuline spans many year. It honors their continued commitment to the Ursuline mission, set forth by St. Angela. The 2013 recipient was the late Betty Seeger Dannenfelser '40 who attended Ursuline Academy through the aid of a scholarship. After graduating, she was an executive secretary at Procter & Gamble for her whole career. “Betty wanted to make the world a better place, and was so grateful for the opportunities awarded her because of her Ursuline education, that before she passed away in 2011, Betty made arrangements to leave a very generous gift to her alma mater,” said Ms. Redmond. “As a result, we’ve established the Betty Seeger Dannenfelser Endowed Scholarship Fund, which will help other young women, like Betty, obtain an Ursuline education.” St. Angela Merici Leadership Award recipient, Betty Jean Seeger Dannenfelser ’40. Three generations of Ursuline graduates: Emily Berg Schmidt ’08, Jenny Neyer Berg ’79, Joan Klein Berg ’48, and Amy Berg ’13. Congratulations to all of the award recipients and their families. Ursuline is grateful for their commitment and dedication to our school. 2013 Woman of the Year, Tamara Kearney Lanier ’95, and her husband Calvin Lanier. F OL L O W U S O N FAC E B O O K : Ursuline Academy of Cincinnati VOICES WINTER 2014 7 URSULINE SYMPOSIUM Symposium presenters Lisa Susan Haller ’75 and Linda Haller Sloan ’75 with Ursuline President Sharon Redmond. Ursuline Academy welcomed 49 alumnae on Friday, September 27, 2013, for the biennial Ursuline Symposium. Alumnae spoke to students about their work and other opportunities within their professional fields. Specifically, alumnae spoke to the students about direct and indirect paths to different careers. “Today is an opportunity for the young women of Ursuline to think about career opportunities, while at the same time, recognize that career paths can change,” Kerri Kagler Schuman ’86, Director of Alumnae Relations, said. “Many of our graduates are leaders in their fields, but their careers may not be what they envisioned in high school. It is such an asset to our current students that they have the opportunity to learn from and speak The Besl sisters, Carolyn ’03 and April ’00, with Ursuline Athletic Director, Diane Redmond. Carolyn Besl coaches Ursuline softball. with women who are successful, and it’s important that they know that change is part of any career path.” The day began with a morning assembly where the students heard from keynote speaker and 2013 Ursuline Woman of the Year, Tamara Kearney Lanier ’95, who reminded students that luck is important to any career path, but just as important is a person’s willingness to take risks. Following Ms. Lanier’s presentation, students attended three sessions based on their areas of interest. Alumnae from a variety of fields offered sessions including, law, banking, medicine, journalism, information technology, fashion, and marketing. Members of the Class of 1986 visit with each other at the Symposium luncheon: Pam Weeks Fellerhoff, Director of Alumnae Relations Kerri Kagler Schuman, Mary Bohmer Herrington, Joddy Geoppinger Kuhn. 8 VOICES WINTER 2014 www.ursulineacademy.org The Symposium served as a mini-reunion for the Class of 2005: Molly Berendt, Director of Communications Sally Neidhard, Megan Busam, Jill Hoying Searcy, Rohan Krehbiel, Leigh Brock, and Allison Cottrell. “This was such a fantastic day – this is what makes Ursuline special,” said Olivia Schwartz '14. The day certainly was fantastic, and only because of the generosity of the many alums who returned to share their stories: Joanna Argus '98, Molly Berendt '05, Carolyn Besl '03, April Besl '00, Sara Blocher Bolton '99, Leigh Brock '05, Megan Busam '05, Kathleen Knecht Coffaro '98, Allison Cottrell '05, Colleen Devanney '01, Kerry Devanney '98, Laura Doerger-Roberts '88, Pam Weeks Fellerhoff '86, Leah Frederick '88, Kim Kroeger Geoppinger '94, Beth Jackson Glass '92, Kristen Cardenzana Hausfeld '92, Mary Bohmer Herrington '86, Cydny Hofmann Holt '76, Naomi Kinney Graudate Lauren Ward ’04, speaks to students about her work in Information Technology. F OL L O W U S O N FAC E B O O K : Ursuline Academy of Cincinnati '81, Ashley Stratman Kohnen '91, Rohan Krehbiel '05, Joddy Geoppinger Kuhn '86, Tamara Kearney Lanier '95, Maria Longi '84, Susan Luken '81, Chris Xeil Lyons '92, Sue Mackey '76, Amina Malik '02, Margaret Richards Mauzé '96, Suzanne Partridge Meiners '94, Melissa Wilson Morrissey '92, Amy Pennekamp '99, Beth Budde Pitner '82, Melissa Register '96, Maggie Reilly '06, Nancy Welling Reilly '84, Megan Chesko Reisert '02, Susan Rodgers '72, Marianne Utz-Sahms '78, Susan Bellman Schreiber '77, Jill Hoying Searcy '05, Siobhan Taylor '00, Wendy Wolff Travis '86, Lauren Ward '04, Julie Johnson Wentzel '91, Bethany Wiegand '98, Sarah Williford '06, and Jamie Woods '02. Susan Bellman Schreiber ’77, Julie Johnson Wentzel ’91, Kristen Cardenzana Hausfeld ‘92, and Tamara Kearney Lanier ’95, at the reception for speakers. VOICES WINTER 2014 9 The Ursuline Cross Country team competed at the State Championships on Saturday, November 2, and placed third overall. Congratulations to the entire team for a well-deserved success and a strong season. A special congratulations to the team’s only senior, Christine Frederick ’14, for individually placing fourth overall. SCHOOL HAPPENINGS Cross Country team places third in State Championship The team was sent off to the competition with a school-wide tunnel that went from the front entrance to the end of the driveway. We’re so proud of our Lions! 10 VOICES WINTER 2014 www.ursulineacademy.org Anything Goes was a hit! A huge congratulations to the cast and crew of Ursuline Stage Company’s fall musical Anything Goes on a successful weekend of performances in November. The show was enjoyed by all who saw it, and was a great representation of the talent within the Ursuline student body. Five seniors recognized as National Merit Semifinalists Congratulations to the five seniors recognized as National Merit Semifinalists: Allison Baker, Paige Kebe, Hannah Morris, Erin Tinney, and Elizabeth Tyger. The students are among approximately 16,000 Semifinalists in the 59th annual National Merit Scholarship Program. They have an opportunity to continue in the competition for some 8,000 National Merit Scholarships worth about $35 million that will be offered in the spring. Ursuline National Merit Semifinalists from left to right: Elizabeth Tyger, Allison Baker, Paige Kebe, Hannah Morris, and Erin Tinney. F OL L O W U S O N FAC E B O O K : Ursuline Academy of Cincinnati VOICES WINTER 2014 11 Ultimate Auction GO GREEN GALA The cellular bidding was a big hit with Auction guests! Go Green Gala Co-Chairs Joe and Jean Desch, Ursuline President Sharon Redmond, and Co-Chairs Jenny and Gerry Reilly. Thanks to everyone who attended the 2013 Ultimate Auction: Go Green Gala on Novermber 23, 2013. The theme celebrated school spirit, and ushered in a new addition to Ursuline auctions: cellular bidding for the Silent Auction. Those in attendance received a significantly smaller catalog, and instead viewed item descriptions and photos on their mobile devices prior to the evening, and then bid on the items from their phones throughout the evening. Thank you to the many volunteers who made the evening such a success! Thanks to all of our donors and sponsors! Presenting Sponsor Technology Sponsor Students enhance the Go Green theme during the evening. We are grateful for all of our Auction sponsors. An inclusive list of sponsors will be in the 2013-2014 Honor Roll published in the fall. 12 VOICES WINTER 2014 www.ursulineacademy.org ULTIMATE AUCTION Craig and Lucy Miller, Nikki Moeller ’03, Lauren Ranalli, and past parents Bob and Sandy Moeller, dressed the theme! Ursuline Director of Alumnae Relations Kerri Kagler Schuman ’86, Ursuline Board member Theresa Davis Mulligan '90, and her classmates, Anna Stolz Infantino, Shannon O’Meara Cameron, and Shelly Peter Frank. Ursuline Board members Adrienne Berning Kessling '82, Sr. Ellen Doyle, OSU, and Judy Wildermuth Wells '78. F OL L O W U S O N FAC E B O O K : Ursuline Academy of Cincinnati Sophomore students Lauren and Megan Monsour presented a short video during dinner titled “What does Ursuline mean to you?” VOICES WINTER 2014 13 A Conversation about COMMUNICATIONS Erin Frey '14 On Wednesday, October 16, I was fortunate enough to visit Ursuline alum Tiffany Wilson '03 at WKRC, Local 12 news station where she co-anchors the morning news show. She gave me a tour of the studio, told me the ins and outs of the broadcasting world, and let me watch a live four-minute “cut in” where traffic, weather, and breaking news were quickly reported. My connection with Tiffany started my sophomore year when I emailed her after she was the keynote speaker at the 2011 Symposium Day. She inspired me. As a sophomore, and just arriving to Ursuline, I wasn’t ready to think about a career. Tiffany spoke about how Ursuline helped her get where she was, and from then on I was determined to make the next three years at Ursuline count because I knew that my future depended on it. Someone I’d never met was exposing me to a whole new world – the world of communications! Two years later, I’m looking at colleges with journalism and communications programs and I was thrilled when Tiffany invited me down to the studio. 14 VOICES WINTER 2014 Not only was Tiffany kind enough to answer my plethora of questions about college and careers, she pulled some strings at the studio and we got to have our conversation at the anchor desk. One of the main things she emphasized was the importance of involvement.Yes, you go to college to get an education, but what matters are the internships and the experience you get while working in the field. I asked her about the lessons from Ursuline that were especially helpful, and she spoke about the opportunity that each Letter Day presents. The schedule, the teachers, and the activities, allow independence, passion, and confidence. Although it’s a little scary, I know that with my Ursuline education, I’m ready. The first word of Ursuline’s tagline of “Voice. Values. Vision.” is the element that I’ve become the most comfortable with while at Ursuline. I don’t know what I am going to be when I “grow up,” but the sisterhood that all Ursuline students share, past and present, is going to strengthen who I am as I grow. Tiffany is a perfect example of an Ursuline woman who has made the www.ursulineacademy.org “…from then on I was determined to make the next three years at Ursuline count because I knew that my future depended on it.” most of her Ursuline education. She is truly living her passion and I admire her dearly. This experience underlined the value of shared connections between Ursuline women. I am so grateful for the wealth of knowledge that my Ursuline sister bestowed on me. These past few months at Ursuline have shown me that there is no greater bond then the one I have with my sisters. This bond goes beyond the hallways, into the real world, where past Ursuline students live their lives. I know I am not alone when I say how truly blessed I am to call Ursuline my home. F OL L O W U S O N FAC E B O O K : Ursuline Academy of Cincinnati VOICES WINTER 2014 15 A Conversation about CHAMPIONSHIPS Paige Kebe '14, member of the 2012 Ursuline Academy State Championship Volleyball Team I had the opportunity to sit down with two Ursuline alumnae and fellow volleyball state champions in October. I was excited to hear about their experiences as well as share the fond memories that I have from winning state. Despite the well-known and respected reputation of the Ursuline volleyball program, there have only been five teams to win state since the first state championship in 1976. I was lucky enough to speak with Sue Mackey '76, a member of that first 1976 team, and Amy VandenEynden Finn '93, a member of the 1993 team (the first team to win again after Sue’s team). We started off sharing fun stories about our experiences, team superstitions, and most memorable moments. I was interested to hear that Sue and her team actually claimed the title for Ursuline before the lion mascot had even been adopted. Sue was a member of the Ursuline “Big Green Machine,” and she distinctly remembers the ironic newspaper headline after their big win: “In Like a Lamb, Out Like a Lion.” The newspaper foreshadowed our current mascot before it even reached UA! 16 VOICES WINTER 2014 After speaking with Amy, I was surprised to find out that, while she does miss her team and the thrill of winning, there is nothing that she regrets about her time playing Ursuline volleyball. Speaking from my own experience, I know how hard it is to end a season without regrets, especially when the expectations that we set for our program are so high. The reason that we set such high expectations now, though, is because of women like Sue and Amy who worked hard and set the standard for Ursuline’s volleyball program. One of the more entertaining portions of our conversation was about the quirks, rituals, and traditions of each team. The 1976 team had chicken tetrazzini as a pregame meal, the 1993 team ate egg casserole and wore their hair in double braids, and our 2012 team enjoyed chocolate covered strawberries and spoke in British accents—whatever works, right? www.ursulineacademy.org “One thing that we all had in common though is the overwhelming support that each of our teams received from the student body.” Each team definitely had its own personality, which is why our three experiences winning state are so unique. One thing that we all had in common though is the overwhelming support that each of our teams received from the student body. Each of us can clearly remember the excitement and school spirit that surrounded our runs to state. As a member of the first team to ever claim a state title in volleyball, Sue even credits the closeness and enthusiasm of her class to their state win. While Sue’s team sported green Keds, and Amy’s team wore double braids, the three of us share a feeling of school spirit, camaraderie, and a love of the game. I have found that it does not matter how many years have passed since winning state or that the style of play has changed (or that the girls have gotten much taller—according to Amy!). We have a common thread in that we are a group of women who share the unforgettable experience of winning the Ohio High School Division I Volleyball State Championship. The bonds that we share with our coaches and teammates are unbreakable, and the thrill of winning state is a memory that each of us will cherish forever. Though we span across 35 years, I could not be more proud to be part of the legacy of Ursuline Academy Volleyball State Champions that Sue and Amy built. F OL L O W U S O N FAC E B O O K : Ursuline Academy of Cincinnati VOICES WINTER 2014 17 Remembering a Sister Jan Graham '68, English teacher Jordon Angelina Hoak April 15, 1997 – October 1, 2013 Heaven was significantly more joyous, as it gained a dear and precious angel on October 1st, as we, sadly, lost one. But not before she taught us about life and unconditional loving. And thankfully, not before she had sixteen years to spread the grace of her life, her soul, and all the beautiful things she believed in, with us and many others. Jordan bounded, rather exuberantly, into my freshman English class on her first day at Ursuline. One look at her face, her demeanor, and the “Jordan” smile (often, more like a grin!) hooked me, drew me to her, and reeled me in. I was struck by the aura of joy, optimism, love of life, and most importantly, genuineness, she exuded. I remember thinking (somewhat subconsciously, but rather vividly) in the ensuing days, as her “joie de vivre” attitude and her omnipresent smile didn’t fade or wan, that I would be enriched with a constant spark of joy in my life each day. Jordan was a remarkable young woman. Whether she was traipsing through the halls of Ursuline, meandering down some random street, or frequently, voluntarily ministering to those less fortunate, Jordan knew and understood the significant impact of a sincere smile, the importance of treating everyone with genuine respect, and automatically, without a second thought, viewed each person she met as a valuable, worthy, loveable human being. That’s pretty rare for a person of any age, let alone, a young woman of sixteen. She hated stereotypes – that meant judging people; she simply couldn’t do it! It didn’t fit into who she was, what she believed, how she lived her life. Jordan welcomed, embraced, and loved everyone. She saw good in people that others often 18 VOICES WINTER 2014 www.ursulineacademy.org “Jordan knew and understood the significant impact of a sincere smile, the importance of treating everyone with genuine respect, and automatically, without a second thought, viewed each person she met as a valuable, worthy, loveable human being.” overlooked. But she did it in her simple, humble, human, natural way. I doubt very much that she realized the difference she made is so many peoples’ days, lives, and futures. She was too busy just being the honest and sincere Jordan to notice! Although Jordan’s unconditional love reached beyond the bounds of UA, it was especially strong within this faith-based community. She was a confidante, “giggle-buddy,” super-absorbent shoulder, and inspiration to many. But she also epitomized the core values of what we hope to instill in each young woman crossing our threshold. She actively lived her faith daily, and as her mother, April, described so poignantly and clearly, “she created stirrings within us.” Now, it is up to us to keep those “stirrings” alive – to listen to them, act on them, and in doing so, we will pay the highest tribute to, and truly celebrate the life, love, values, vision, and most importantly, voice, of Jordan Hoak, our beloved sister and friend. It’s no coincidence that Jordan’s middle name is “Angel(ina).” Her parents must have known the moment she was born (probably smiling!), that she was special. Now, with just a little over two years of Jordan’s being with us, her family at Ursuline knows it too! F OL L O W U S O N FAC E B O O K : Ursuline Academy of Cincinnati VOICES WINTER 2014 19 MARRIAGES Brittany Mahoney Reardon '03 married Patrick Reardon on October 12, 2013. Her bridesmaids included Andrea Rodgers Howe '03, Beth Koesters Mahoney '98, Carolina Braga, Elizabeth Mitchell '03, and Lindsey Haglage '03. Katie Schings Cherry '09 married Doug Cherry on August 10, 2013. At her wedding were her friends from the class of 2009 Lindsay Runyan, Chelsea Sensibaugh, Gwen Barron (maid of honor), Sarah O'Connor (maid of honor), Holly Gottschall, Ali DeChristopher, Maddie White, Emily Broderick, and Brittany Krekeler. Lindsey Huston Cook '07 married Justin David Cook on August 3, 2013 in Cincinnati. Three of her bridesmaids were UA 2007 graduates, including Famatta Mensah (Lindsey and Famatta were senior class presidents together), Nicole Ollier, and Ashleigh Scheidler. Jill Otten Smith '00 married Arte Smith on August 31, 2013. Many Ursuline friends were there to celebrate. From the top left row: Jacalu Robson '00, Gina Perazzo Lytle '00, Allyson Dammel Lyster '00, Brianne Petricone '01, Nikki Yankulov Taylor '99, Ashley McHugh '00, Emily Blinn Barrette '00, 2nd row: Tori Vonder Ahe Stefanko '00, Jenny Irey Keighley '00, Bitsy Meyer Holliday '00, Sarah Bass Holthaus '00, Jill Otten Smith '00, Allison Koren Wittenbrook '00, Meredith Holthaus Ostoich '00, Kate Farrell '00. Colleen Jordan Orscheln '05 married Scott Orscheln in June 2013. Classmates in attendance were Abby Gerwin, Elizabeth Brandel, Bridget Whitehead, Hilary Gerwin, Shelly Moeller, Jenny Cassady, Susan Loeffler and Caitlin MacEachen Steininger. Tracy Ellspermann '99 married Riley Smith on September 1, 2013. 20 VOICES WINTER 2014 Alex Mechley Venturato '08 married Marco Venturato on June 15, 2013. Four of her bridesmaids were Ursuline women: From Left to Right: Ashley Fiffick, Mixie Mechley '13, Linda Venturato '12, Kelli Ficke '08, and Maria Stowell '08. www.ursulineacademy.org BIRTHS Emily Welling O'Reilly '98, along with her husband and two-year-old son Henry, welcomed twins Gabrielle Louise and Grace Marie on July 30, 2013. Corinne Webby Bridges '98 welcomed a baby girl, Virginia, to the family in September. Needless to say her three older brothers Gabriel (15), Kelly (6) and Edward (2) are smitten. Lisa Obert Straton '96 and her family recently relocated back to Cincinnati in time to welcome Rosemary Catherine who was born on September 3. Her brother Calvin is two. F OL L O W U S O N FAC E B O O K : Ursuline Academy of Cincinnati Cassandra (Casey) McKeown Copley '96 welcomed Francis (Frankie) Michael Copley on September 5, 2013. Anne Kraemer Diaz '99 had a daughter, Elizabeth Grace, in July and wrapped up her research position at Wake Forest University Medical School to pursue a lifelong dream and passion to turn a volunteer position into a full time career. In October, Anne and her family (Sophia - age 3, Elizabeth and husband Victor) moved to Guatemala. Anne is directing the non-profit Maya Health Alliance - Wuqu' Kawoq. www.mayahealth.org Kathleen Knecht Coffaro '98 and her husband Andy welcomed Kennedy Rose Coffaro on Oct. 21, 2013. Kate Schroder Juech '95 announces the birth of her daughter, Josephine (Josie) Ann Juech. She was born on May 22, 2013 – arriving at 10.5 lbs and 23 inches long. Sara Blocher Bolton '99 and her husband Rafe announce the arrival of their first child, Beckett Damian Bolton born on March 23, 2013. VOICES WINTER 2014 21 Where two or more are gathered… Ursuline alumnae don’t need a reason to get together – those bonds last forever. Please send us photos when those gatherings happen! Kailey Cummings '06, Abby Haglage '06 and Amy Gruber '06 enjoyed a visit together in NYC! Members of the Class of 1974 enjoyed a Girls Trip together. Left to right: Lois Brumleve Sedacca, Terri Wenstrup Hinckley, Katie Schoettmer Winn, Kathy Lowes Haglage, Linda Henning Gaitskill, and Janet Robson. Science teacher and alum, Ms. Diane Neyer Rose ’74, welcomes former chemistry students who have continued in the sciences back to her home for a party each year. Front row left: Kelly Davidson ’11, Nicole Stagge ’11, Ms. Diane Neyer Rose ’74, Maria Czerwonka ’13, Lisa Guay ’09. Second row left: Kelsey Boyd ’12, Megan Fleming ’12, Katie Brewer ’11. Third row, left: Megan O’Brien ’12, Steffi Homan ’12. Fourth row, left: Katie Kaes ’12, Renee Prows ’12, Claire Barrett ’11, Sarah Connaughton ’14. Kelly Davidson '11 and Nicole Stagge '11 received their white coats at Butler's White Coat Ceremony for their official acceptance into Butler's College of Pharmacy. 22 VOICES WINTER 2014 Members of the 1993 State Championship Volleyball team celebrated the 20th reunion of their championship at the Ursuline Academy vs. St. Ursula Academy volleyball game in September. The evening was capped off with an Ursuline victory. The 35 of '53 enjoyed their 65th reunion with a gathering at a class member’s home, then a reception at Ursuline the following day. Class members joined the Ursuline Fall Family Mass after which brunch was shared in the Faculty Dining Room. In the photo, front row, left: Ann Hayes Strotman, Eileen Grathwohl Beckman, Kate Eckert Meyer, Kaye Schorle Stambaugh, Jane Gardner. Back row, left: Lynn Fitzpatrick Hengehold, Kaye Martin Schroeder, Maryann Fermann Burwinkel, Sue Ollier Languth, Jane Vogele Berger, Mary Jo Felix Bender, and Ann Dougherty Kunkemoeller. Others who attended the dinner were Joanne Baker Hogan, Joan Bell Pitula, Marilyn Dorr Soriano, Lois Moellering Kluener, Lyn Niehaus Brunemann, and Pat Sikorski Emerson. Warm letters were received from several who couldn’t make the trip this time. Nine deceased classmates were honored with thoughts and prayers. www.ursulineacademy.org In Memoriam Peter Cassinelli (2.22.2013), father of Roma Cassinelli Alber '73 and Pat Cassinelli Renick '74; father-in-law of Debby Sweeney Cassinelli; grandfather of Emily Albers Marie Lucking Kleiman '41 Hartley '96, Mary Cassinelli Gaffey '01, (7.19.2013), aunt of Julie Partusch Hoffman Catherine Albers '01, and Grace Albers '69, Ann Partusch Castle '76, and Amy Strohmaier '03 Partusch Lanzit '79 Lisa Champlin (11.24.2013) aunt of Suzanne Schimanski Diehl '46 Allyson Dammel '00 and Gretchen Dammel (9.15.2013), mother of Christine Diehl Collins '03 Noble '71, Marianne Diehl Parker '75, Alice “Scottie” Coler (6.2013), Helen Diehl Fox '77 grandmother of Audrey Coler '14 and Grace Marilyn Martin '50 (11.26.2013), sister Coler '15 of Kaye Martin Schroeder '53 and Susan Martha A. Cooper (10.28.13), mother of Martin '62 Trisha Cooper '80 Elizabeth “Betty” Jansen Lampkin '55 John Joseph Corcoran (2.13.13), step(1.6.2013), sister of Sr. Mary Ann Jansen, father of Tracy Bein Sandquist '91 OSU Jeanne Sedler Cottingham (11.17.13), Marianne Kleinhaus Delaney '65 mother of Shari Cottingham '66 (Jan (11.27.13), sister of Helen Kleinhaus Graham) Martin ‘58 Mary “Amy” Durban Grause '73 (6.22.2013) sister of Claire Durban Jacobi '70 and Mary "Cammy" Durban Hapner '77; cousin of Linda Henning Gaitskill '74, Gail Henning Kiester '76, and Michele Henning Kissinger '82; second cousin of Maddie Kissinger '13 and Mia Kissinger '15 Jordan A. Hoak '15 (10.1.2013) Daniel Arlinghaus (7.21.2013), father of Jill Arlinghaus '95 John Atchison (1.1.13), grandfather of Fiona Watson ‘11 and Gillian Watson '14 Chris DeCamp (3.9.2013), cousin of Olivia McCloy '16 James Dennis (1.12.2013) grandfather of Corinne Lauderback ‘14 David Dempsey (6.23.2013), husband of Kathleen Keitel Dempsey '75; brother-inlaw of Laurie Keitel Philpot '79; uncle of Katie Keitel '10 Jonathan Endres (2.25.2013), cousin of Lauren Endres '15 Stan Fogel (4.5.2013), father of Diana Fogel Hatfield '84 and Terri Fogel Kassem '86 William G. Kagler (9.15.13), father of Kerri Kagler Schuman '86; grandfather of Megan Schuman '14 and Sarah Schuman '17 Raymond Owen (2.15.2013), grandfather of Katie Boehm '14 Helen Kallenberg (11.8.13), grandmother of Grace Kallenberg '13 Noel Pedrotty (11.5.13), mother of Brianna Williamson '07 and Erin Williamson '10 Betty Jane Kelley (3.29.2013), grandmother of Jennifer Jones Fedorov '93 William Pettit (6.7.2013), father of Cindy Pettit '78 and Denise Pettit Stearns '81 Gloria Jean “Gina” Kelsey (3.12.13), grandmother of Tracy Bein Sandquist '91 Agnes Priess (3.1.2013), grandmother of Julie Ivers '14 Joseph Kessler (8.12.2013), brother of Jennifer Kessler '06 and Sarah Kessler '09 Sylvia Rahe (8.6.13), grandmother of Tracy Bein Sandquist '91 Mary Lynn King (8.31.13), mother of Beth King '98 Wilfrid C. “Bill” Rehling (1.12.13), grandfather of Elizabeth Buening '96 and Anne Buening '98 Sue Lacker (6.17.2013), mother-in-law of Polly Kemme Lacker '75; grandmother of Amy Lacker '06 and Jamie Lacker '10 Leonore Lehmkuhl (4.13.2013), mother of Beth Lehmkuhl Kreidenweis '75 and Diane Lehmkuhl Kelly '80; grandmother of Grace Kelly '15 Walter G. Leigh (10.15.2013), grandfather of Sarah Fitzpatrick '12 Ann Lytle (9.13.2013), mother of faculty members Rose Grafton and Sue Lytle; grandmother of Courtney Grafton '13 and Lauren Grafton '16 Kelly Mahoney (8.31.2013), cousin of Danielle Reinert '10 and Amy Burns '11 Dorcey Martin (1.27.2013), motherin-law of Tracey Bidwell Martin '81; grandmother of Kate Martin '06 Harold E. Robertson (6.12.2013), father of Hal Robertson, current Board of Trustee; grandfather of Jenny Robertson '10, Ellie Robertson '11, Grace Robertson '13, and Sara Robertson '15 Mary Robisch (8.23.2013), grandmother of Susan Luchsinger West '95, Laura Luchsinger Tepe '98, and Becky Luchsinger '02 Rose Ann Bernholt Rother (11.20.13) grandmother of Kim Schoenhoft Engelbrink '99, Kelly Schoenhoft Smith '95, Kerri Schoenhoft Meyers '98 and Kristen Schoenhoft Reppeto '92 Joseph Anthony Sanitato (10.13.13), grandfather of Mary Sanitato '07, Gina Sanitato '11, and Andrea Sanitato '15 Earl Scheidler (8.13.13), uncle of Anne Scheidler McGraw '68, Jan Scheidler Cremons '72 and Donna Scheidler Gruber '75 Susiannah Gertrude Babinec (10.23.13), mother of Shawn Babinec Baxla '84, Michelle Babinec Crimmins '85, and Lisa Babinec '86 Walter E. Gerbus (11.7.13), grandfather of Ellie Glover '17 Melvin “Mel” Martin (9.17.2013), father-in-law of Tracey Bidwell Martin '81; grandfather of Kate Martin '06 Pauline Haverkos (7.8.2013), mother of Julianne Haverkos '75 William Matthews (9.4.2013), grandfather of Anna Hect '15 Nancy Stein (4.12.2013), grandmother of Kelly Cameron '16 Eugene Barbero (3.1.13), grandfather of Kristin Hogan Zepf '92 and Kerry Hogan Ellensohn '94 Leo Heyl (8.29.2013), father of Jennifer Heyl '79 Mike McCormack (11.15.13), father of Molly McCormack Rieman '79, Colleen McCormack Fischesser ‘81 Ruth Sundermann-Macke (11.12.13), mother of Lynne Sundermann Hammons '57, Ann Sundermann Fitzgerald '67 and Susan Sundermann Jacoby '73 Anne Woods Hiltz (8.24.2013), Mildred E. “Midge” Lachtrop Bohmer grandmother of Elizabeth Tulisiak '11, Anne (9.29.13), mother of Chris Bohmer Stewart Tulisiak '13, Christine Tulisiak '16, and '68 Claire Tulisiak '16 Gary Brockhaus (9.13.2013), grandfather Alvin Hock (8.1.2013), father of Sally of Olivia Lusby '17 Hock Evans '67 Lynne Brokamp (11.15.13), sister of Harold Huber (6.16.13), grandfather Joanne Brokamp Johnson '68, sister-in-law Sarah Goodridge '14; father of Lisa Huber of Teri Kneer Brokamp '79, aunt of Stacy McBreen '84 Johnson Guy '92, Jeni Brokamp '08, Taylor Tom Huff (8.2.2013), grandfather Brokamp '15 and Amy Brokamp '16 of Alexandra Schirmer '13 and Alison Jim Cain (9.3.2013), grandfather of Emma Schirmer '15 Cain '17 Ann Hulefeld (11.20.13), mother of Ray Allen Campbell (10.13), grandfather Anita Hulefeld Preston '65 of Jamie Windsor Held '95 and Victoria Joan Imfeld (3.2013), grandmother of Windsor '01 Tara Becker '04, Maria Becker '06, and Donna Carroll (3.10.13), mother of Caroline Ellis '16 Heather Carroll LeLoup '94 Patricia Jones (7.1.2013), mother of Dennis Carver (3.30.2013), husband of Jennifer Jones Fedorov '93 Maria Iannitti Carver '62; father of Laura Carver Kasbek '00 F OL L O W U S O N FAC E B O O K : Ursuline Academy of Cincinnati Ronald “Ron” McDaniel (11.1.13), husband of Dianne Stephens McDaniel '65; father of Kerry McDaniel Stanfield '02 Martha Louise “Marty” McGraw (7.24.2013), grandmother of Martha Craft '04, Sadie McGraw '06, Taulbee McGraw '11, and Maggie McGraw '14 Robert McGraw (2.11.2013), uncle of Martha Craft '04, Sadie McGraw '06, Taulbee McGraw '11, Maggie McGraw '14 Janet McNair (6.24.2013), grandmother of Abby Wulf '12 Alfred H. “Al” Morse (6.18.2013), father of Peg Morse Conway '81 Helen Mullin (4.25.13), grandmother of Erin Mullin '08 John Overmann (8.19.2013), father of Megan Overman Goetz '95; brother of Mary Ann Overmann Barnard '68; uncle of Catherine Barnard '04 Mary Elizabeth “Betty” Walborn (11.5.13), grandmother of Emily Walborn Galyon '98 and Elizabeth Walborn '00 Carolyn Warden (7.15.2013), grandmother of Bernie Warden '03 David Welling (1.23.13), brother of Marisa Welling Stewart '87, Elizabeth Welling Rouse '94 and Emily Welling O’Reilly '98 Eric Werner (3.19.12), brother of Kirsten Werner '84 and Ingrid Werner '86 John “Jack” Wiehe (11.11.13), husband of Geri Purcell Wiehe (former employee) Waltraud “Trudy” Williams (11.22.13), mother of Roselinda Williams Cassini '68, Erin Williams '75, Andrea Williams Ehoodin '77, Jennifer Williams '80, Tricia Williams '82, and Lisa Williams '85. VOICES WINTER 2014 23 THINGS COMING UP Ursuline Academy Hall of Fame Induction: February 8, 7 p.m. Ursuline Academy Golf Outing: May 19, 2 p.m. Join Ursuline Athletics for the Hall of Fame Induction, recognizing the athletic achievements of Ursuline graduates. Also take advantage of a fun-filled day of golf to benefit Ursuline Boosters and Athletics! More information and registration information is available on the Ursuline homepage. Lenten Family Mass March 16, 10 a.m. Join the Ursuline community for Mass that will include an opportunity for Lenten reflection and community prayer. Mass will be followed by breakfast and fellowship. 6th Annual Run for Lions 5K March 23, 7:30 a.m. Mass, 8:30 a.m. Race Awards will be given to the first three participants in each age category, the first three overall male & female participants, the fastest Ursuline student and Ursuline alumna. All pre-paid registrations will get a goodie bag, a t-shirt, and breakfast after the race. Click on the 5K Run/Walk button on the Ursuline homepage to register! 24 VOICES WINTER 2014 www.ursulineacademy.org Ursuline Academy Spring Play “Pride and Prejudice”: March 27 – 30 Ursuline Music Department Spring Concert: May 8, 7 p.m. Ursuline Academy Stage Company presents Jane Austen’s esteemed classic “Pride and Prejudice,” for its Spring Play. Tickets will be available via the Ursuline website. Also, please plan to join us in May for the Music Department’s Spring Concert – all are welcome! Easter Egg Hunt April 12, 10 a.m. Join us for this annual favorite – visit with the Easter Bunny, enjoy an Easter egg hunt on the school grounds, and visit with other members of the Ursuline community. More information will be available on the Ursuline homepage. Reunion Weekend for Classes ending in 4s and 9s June 13 and 14 Ursuline alumnae from classes ending in 4s and 9s – please add this weekend to your calendar and plan to join your class for a joyous Ursuline Reunion Weekend. More information will follow soon! F OL L O W U S O N FAC E B O O K : Ursuline Academy of Cincinnati VOICES WINTER 2014 25 What’s Happening on We have a great community of Facebook followers who participate in conversations every day. Below are the most active recent posts. If you’re on Facebook or Twitter, and want to join in the conversation, please follow us! If you’re not on these sites, contact Communications Director, Sally Neidhard ’05, to share your thoughts. We love enhancing the conversation! 26 VOICES WINTER 2014 www.ursulineacademy.org F OL L O W U S O N FAC E B O O K : Ursuline Academy of Cincinnati VOICES WINTER 2014 27 Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID 5535 Pfeiffer Road Cincinnati, Ohio 45242 Cincinnati, Ohio Permit No. 9614 USA C H A N G E S E RV I C E R E QU E S T E D PHOTO TC Parents: Are you getting your daughter’s copy of Voices? If you are also receiving your alumna daughter’s, please send us her address. Call (513) 791-5794 or email [email protected] Thank you! 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