2022-2023 VOLUME 1 NUMBER 6 OFFICE OF ALUMNAE RELATIONS 1943 2022
THE FOUNTAIN FONTBONNE HALL ACADEMY 2 A Message From Dr. Fred Herron History of Fontbonne Student Artwork In Memoriam Featured Story - Gloria Class Notes Faculty Notes Fontbonne Principals International Women’s Day College Acceptances Summer Soirée Alumnae Emeritae Society A Message From Alumnae Director EDITOR/WRITER Gloria A. Musto CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Karissa K. Miles DESIGNER Laerta Premto [email protected] PRINTING Alltype Marketing A Division of Que Graphics & Communications, LLC THE FOUNTAIN 9901 Shore Road Brooklyn, NY 11209 Published once a year by Fontbonne Hall Academy’s Office of Alumnae Relations ADDRESS UPDATES Postmaster: Send address changes to: Office of Alumnae Relations Fontbonne Hall Academy 9901 Shore Road Brooklyn, NY 11209 or email [email protected] 46 10 12 14 15 22 24 26 30 32 34 35
THE FOUNTAIN FONTBONNE HALL ACADEMY 3 ART CLASSES 2021-2022
THE FOUNTAIN FONTBONNE HALL ACADEMY 4 A MESSAGE FROM DR. FRED HERRON
THE FOUNTAIN FONTBONNE HALL ACADEMY 5 Dear Alumnae, “If this isn’t good, what is?” This is the phrase that has been running through my mind every day since I returned home to Fontbonne at the start of July. When I first came to Fontbonne in 1978 I was planning to stay for a year before returning to graduate school. After a couple of months, I remember talking to my fiancée, now my wife of these many years, and telling her that I thought I had found a home, a place to put down roots where I might make a difference. The rest, as they say, is history. It is easy to tell this story to Fontbonne alums. We share that same experience of finding a home that makes all the difference. We have enjoyed the challenges of Sports Night, the delights of Fontbonne Christmas and the beauty of a graduation with white gowns and roses. Even more than these, you have known what it is like to study in a community “where everybody knows your name” and where your growth has mattered to each of your teachers. You have known what it is like to be in a community where you could find your own voice and work together with other young women sharing leadership positions. In short, you know what a magical place Fontbonne has been and continues to be. Since returning I have been delighted to meet the faculty who possess all the enthusiasm of the teachers that you loved so well. Our student government leaders love the traditions that you created for them and are eager to create traditions of their own as well. Our new science suite is an amazing space that will allow our students to enter a world of exploration. At the same time our social studies classes will continue to challenge our girls to think critically about their place in society and our religion classes will open up a world of meaning that confronts the most basic questions facing us all. In fact, every classroom our students enter continues to be a place where they are challenged and where they meet those challenges head on with humor, grace and determination. As you can see, we continue to change and grow with the times but what is essential about this community remains the same. Put another way, if this isn’t good, what is? Come by and visit. Let us know how you are doing. Most of all, please keep us in your prayers as we continue to pray for you every time we celebrate liturgy. Take it from me, even if you leave for a while you always have a home here at Fontbonne. Dr. Fred Herron Interim Principal
THE FOUNTAIN FONTBONNE HALL ACADEMY 6 History of Fontbonne The building at 9901 Shore Road in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn had many inhabitants before it became our beloved Fontbonne Hall Academy. Researcher and historian Henry Stewart takes us through its interesting journey chronicled in his many books on Bay Ridge and also in citing articles from local newspapers such as The Eagle from the early to mid-1900s. The mansion, known as the Shell House for its uniquely tiled roof, was built by Albert Johnson, a railroad and streetcar magnet from the Midwest. When Albert passed away, the house was bequeathed to his brother, Tom L. Johnson, a former mayor of Cleveland, Ohio and the inventor of the streetcar coin machine. According to Stewart’s accounts, Mr. Johnson enjoyed the scenic views of the Narrows from his mansion balconies. Many of the wealthy Wall-Streeters who “summered” in Bay Ridge also enjoyed the country club lifestyle of this once bucolic area. Actress Lillian Russell and financier Diamond Jim Brady were rumored to have lived at or owned the property. Although Stewart’s research proves they did not, this tale adds to the fun and interesting FH folklore. However, real estate records showed that Miss Russell did rent a house along Shore Road and is rumored to have performed from one of the balconies at 9901.
THE FOUNTAIN FONTBONNE HALL ACADEMY 7 Since Mr. Johnson, there were several owners of the property including one of the first immigrants from Syria to Bay Ridge, Essa Awad, whose entrepreneurial spirit led to our current-day story. He purchased the property and eventually leased it for commercial purposes; first as a school, The Edward School for ages 2-10 and then as a private club (speakeasy). However, this enterprise was met with community protest and was quickly closed. He eventually leased the property to the Sisters of Saint Joseph as an annex to St. Francis Xavier Academy in Park Slope, Brooklyn. On September 1, 1937, the Sisters took full possession of the property and the school was formally named Fontbonne Hall, after Mother St. John Fontbonne who had led the congregation of the Sisters of St. Joseph during the dark days of the French Revolution. On September 13th of that year, FH opened its doors with Sister Mary Dolorita, CSJ, the school’s first principal, overseeing the administration of Fontbonne from the Park Slope location. According to published records, 60 students were registered (47 in 1A and 13 in 1B) for the first day. In the 1938 St. Francis Xavier yearbook, a page dedicated to Fontbonne said, “From the rapid strides made by the branch school during the first year, it is evident that she will not long remain the protégé of St. Francis.” On July 29, 1937, the feast of St. Martha, permission was granted by the Reverend Mother of the Sisters of St. Joseph and the blessings of the Diocese of Brooklyn, to purchase the property on Shore Road. Bishop Molloy took a special interest in the new school and gave Fontbonne its motto “Ex fide fortis ~ from faith comes strength”. By the first commencement in June of 1941, a permanent charter in the name of Fontbonne Hall had been granted by the New York State Board of Regents and our beloved school officially began its mission of educating young women. The main house became the central area of learning. The smaller building that had been the stable, carriage house, and garage was also converted into classrooms and named St. Martha’s. In 1940, a building that was to be used as the school gymnasium and auditorium was built; in 1942, a house on Third Avenue was purchased. The house, known as the St. Joseph Building, was used as classrooms for the ever-expanding numbers of students and also as convent space. In 1951, construction on a new building, the Sacred Heart Building, was completed and two years later in 1953, a second house on Third Avenue was purchased and became known as the Immaculate Heart Building. In the 1970s, Fontbonne took on the word “academy” and its second NYS charter was certified in 1982 as Fontbonne Hall Academy. The final phase of building at Fontbonne was done on the site of what was known as St. Martha’s yard. What had once been a tranquil lawn with picnic tables was converted into a three story building with a lower level cafeteria. In September of 1980, excited students and faculty were thrilled to utilize the “New Building,” a name which was used for eleven years. In 1991, the “new building” was dedicated and named in honor of alumna and Maryknoll martyr, Ita Ford ’57. The Ita Ford Building would go on to be the home of classrooms, a faculty lounge, science labs, a computer lab, and the home of an updated cafeteria.
THE FOUNTAIN FONTBONNE HALL ACADEMY 8 Fontbonne continues to be a vibrant community of teaching and learning. The Sisters who opened the school in 1937 could never have imagined the changes that would take place over these 85 years. Over time, as educational needs changed, Fontbonne expanded its curriculum, modernized its technology, evolved in its name, and now has a full lay faculty. In 2013, with the installation of its first lay principal, Fontbonne became the alpha and beta test-site for Google’s state-of-the-art technology called Classroom and the Google Learning Management System. Fontbonne was also one of the first schools to incorporate a Fab Lab, which propelled her technology and learning into the 21st Century. Today, the entire school community uses technology to teach, learn, and communicate, which also allowed Fontbonne to transition seamlessly through the Covid-19 epidemic and quarantine period with uninterrupted full-time remote learning. This technology also propelled Fontbonne to partner with institutions of higher education which allows students to meet with professors for course work via Zoom and Google Meet. Students also have the ability to take online courses outside of the offered in-person curriculum. FH is proud to offer a more challenging curriculum with 17 Advanced Placement courses. Some are online, but most are offered by on-site skilled faculty. These courses have given students an edge when applying to topnotch colleges and universities. Fontbonne is a leader in STEM education; representing Science, Math, Engineering and Technology. Fontbonne currently is the only school in the United States that has been asked to partner with Brown University in a ground breaking pre-college Scholars Program in Engineering. In addition to Brown University, Fontbonne has partnerships with seven universities through which our students can take college level courses and graduate with the potential of 45 college credits. As part of the expansion of a STEM program, the Science Research Program was introduced and has since grown. Students in the 10th and 11th grades are learning how to conduct research which eventually leads to working with some of the most renowned experts in a variety of fields. In 12th grade, students present their research projects, some even for peer-review and publication. Several of our students from Science Research have traveled to professional conferences to present their work and have also won awards in prestigious competitions. On a yearly basis, Fontbonne now holds a Science Symposium. Our STEM focus has grown and developed into a STEAM program with the “A” representing an Arts
THE FOUNTAIN FONTBONNE HALL ACADEMY 9 component. Our initial offering in this area has been a dance workshop offered in a first period class for all students interested. Many of our students also compete in “Poetry out Loud” competitions, NYS History competitions; and we have an award-winning Speech/Debate Team in State and National competitions. The AP Capstone course offers a seminar and research component which graduates students with a distinction diploma. Because Fontbonne believes in educating the whole person, a wide variety of athletic and afterschool extra-curricular activities are offered which include: Bonnie Beats, Drama Club, Girls Who Code, Political Issues, History Bowl, The Green Team, The Folio and Yearbook Clubs, and far too many more to list, as well as philanthropy clubs which focus on the fulfillment of the mission of the Sisters of St. Joseph. The Student Council continues to prepare young women leaders and the National Honor Society draws the best and the brightest. Our athletes have gone on to be All-Diocesan Champions, City-Wide Champs, and State Finalists and our sports programs continue to draw young athletes from all of the boroughs of the City. The Cheer team competed in national competitions several times. From 1937 to the present, Fontbonne has offered the young women entrusted to its care a superior education that met the needs of her time. A Fontbonne graduate was one of the first women to work on the Ennead computer during WWII, was the first woman to report from the floor of the NY Stock Exchange, and a doctor who ran the first trials for the Covid-19 vaccine. Graduates became successful doctors, dentists, lawyers, teachers, and journalists who took what they learned at Fontbonne, not only to their workplace, but also into their homes to raise their children. Faith has served as the center of all the curricula; inspiring graduates to become religious sisters, missionaries, and an Episcopal priest. Each graduate is prepared to excel and become her best self; confident in the knowledge that she can accomplish anything and to enjoy success in her chosen career and life. Fontbonne has continued to make rapid strides in the education of young women throughout its history, from 1937 to the present day. When alumnae return to a Fontbonne function and sing the school song, the words “Fontbonne forever” resonate with everyone in the room. May reading through the pages of this 85th Anniversary magazine bring you the same feeling…to memories of days at Fontbonne Hall…and the heart-felt sentiment of Fontbonne Forever!
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THE FOUNTAIN FONTBONNE HALL ACADEMY 11 ANJALI ARORA ’22
THE FOUNTAIN FONTBONNE HALL ACADEMY 12 IN MEMORIAM The Fontbonne Family wishes to remember the members of our community who have gone to their eternal resting place. “Eternal rest grant onto them, O Lord … Susan Triglianos Curran ’67* Maria Scollo ’82* Carol Shashaty Vullo ’60 3/26/17 Gloria Paulsen ’53 11/3/19 Barbara Tullo ’69 5/24/21 Lucretia Romani Ruppel ’44 8/1/21 Joan Lencki Greene ’59 10/10/21 Audrey Woods Windorf ’55 10/14/21 S. Teresa of Jesus O.C.D. ’56 (Teresa Marie Arcati) 11/6/21 Concetta Cuccurullo 11/9/21 Grandmother to Lisa-Ann Cucurullo ’99 Former Board of Trustees Christina Cucurullo ’08 James R. Keenan Sr. 11/24/21 Husband to Martha Spinelli Keenan ’63 S. Mary Margaret Daly, C.S.J. (S. Helen Marie) 12/17/21 Former Faculty Vincent Bartiromo 1/7/22 Father to Theresa Bartiromo Santoro ’80 Maria Bartiromo ’85 Kathleen Buckley 1/12/22 Grandmother to Mairead Buckley ’21 Craig Chamides 1/16/22 Husband to Rose Mastrojanni Chamides ’62 Robyn Williams 1/25/22 Mother to Amanda Foresta ’12 Geraldine Bourke 1/26/22 Mother to Clare Bourke ’14 Linda Morrongiello ’80 1/28/22 Florence Lewis Woodford ’58 2/21/22 Louis Rettagliata 3/4/22 Father to Lynda Rettagliata ’87 Joanne Gilmartin Worrall ’47 3/10/22 Rose Alvarez 3/1/22 Mother to Victor Gomez Board of Trustees Victor Gomez Sr. 3/2022 Father to Victor Gomez Board of Trustees Frank J. Orlando
THE FOUNTAIN FONTBONNE HALL ACADEMY 13 3/29/22 Husband to Mary Ann DiMattina Orlando ’61 Father to Paulette Orlando Corsair ’86 John Loconsolo 4/1/22 Benefactor Father to Victoria’64, Maria’66, Regina ’73, Elizabeth’76, Rosemarie ’78 Dorothy Wheeler Murphy ’45 4/23/22 Demetrios Voyiazis 5/9/22 Father to Anna Voyiazis Sofides ’80 and Callie Voyiazis Bantis ‘81 Grandfather to Athena Sofides ’15 Jennifer Mirto Specht ’88 5/11/22 Edna Therese Lavoie Hansen ’48 5/16/22 Michael Culhane 5/21/22 Father to Deborah Culhane ’91 Rev. Canon Suzanne Culhane ’91 Calogero Gavinelli 6/4/22 Father to Catherine Marinello Administrative Assistant Grandfather to Nicole ’04, Jaclyn ’07, Samantha ’12 Joan Walsh Robinson’48 6/5/22 Lorraine Marciano 6/9/22 Mother to Stephanie Marciano ‘02 Lori Grandinetti King ’74 6/19/22 Sister to Claudia Grandinetti Troiano ’71 Helen Wilder Murphy ’43 6/17/22 (School Song Composer) Susan McEleney ’75 7/6/22 Paolo Brussi 7/14/22 Father to Neli Brussi FHA Faculty Jimmy Brandow 7/22/22 Father to Michelle Brandow ’09 Mike Long 7/24/22 Father-in-law to Danielle Diaz-Long ’05 Former Board of Trustees Lorraine Costa ’53* Dr. George Batri 8/1/22 Father to Leslie Batri ’15 Salvatore Pepe 8/15/22 Father to Debra Pepe Canterino Former Faculty Grandfather to Lauren Canterino ‘09 Maureen McGowan Barrett ‘57 8/18/22 …may their souls and all the souls of the faithfully departed, rest in peace. Amen” Please share the obituary notifications of Alumnae /or their family members with the Office of Alumnae Relations so they may be acknowledged in future publications. Email: [email protected] * No date provided
THE FOUNTAIN FONTBONNE HALL ACADEMY 14 GLORIA MUSTO ‘71 ALUMNAE SPOLIGHT Gloria Musto has ended her 20-year Fontbonne career, leaving behind a strong legacy It may surprise you but Gloria Musto, Class of 1971, still has her Fontbonne Hall acceptance letter from 1967. With several cousins having attended and Fontbonne’s reputation of being the neighborhood school to attend, the choice of Fontbonne was a no brainer for Gloria. As a student, she took part in many activities including glee club, mission club, and the yearbook. Upon graduation, Gloria received her BS from Hunter College and then two Masters Degrees in Education, one from Brooklyn College and one from St. John’s University. Gloria began her career in education at Our Lady of Loreto School, followed by several years in St. Anselm School. After five years of elementary school teaching, Gloria moved to corporate America, where she spent twenty years. During that time, Gloria remained connected through Fontbonne’s Alumnae Association, serving in various capacities. Her continued generosity was a testament to her love for Fontbonne. During the 2000-2001 academic year, Gloria chaired Fontbonne’s first annual golf outing, which was a huge success. In 2002, Gloria came back home to Fontbonne. For many years, she taught US History, Economics, Economics Honors and Child Development. Her motto as an educator was to be fair, firm, and friendly. Gloria was also very involved in the extracurricular life of Fontbonne as moderator of SAC, the Student Activities Council. She even served as Director of Student Activities, where she oversaw all of Fontbonne’s extracurricular activities. In 2016, she transitioned to Director of Alumnae Relations, a role in which she loved to meet alumnae from different generations and hear about their achievements. She remains connected to her classmates, and helps keep them connected to Fontbonne. While she will miss day-to-day life at Fontbonne, she is very much looking forward to her retirement. She recently married Sergio Nacinovich this past October and moved to New Jersey. She, with her husband, is excited to read more, travel, and enjoy the pleasures of suburban life. Gloria closed every alumnae newsletter with a Maxim, so it’s only fitting that we close this article with Maxim 62: Be at peace with your path. Embrace change when the Spirit prompts. Good luck with your future endeavors, Gloria!
THE FOUNTAIN FONTBONNE HALL ACADEMY 15 CLASS NOTES The Fontbonne Family Rosemary Williams ’55 is the director of a non-profit who contacted us for an intern to work on social media and Constant Contact posts. Alexa Giambra ’22 worked with her at Women’s Perspective whose mission is to help women with financial literacy through zoom sessions. Thank you Rosemary for giving Alexa this wonderful experience. Sisterhood through the ages… Sr. Virginia Lake ’56 was honored at the Sisters of St. Joseph annual Liturgy and Luncheon in April for her years of service to the Bishop Kearney HS community. Sister served as the beloved Director of Alumnae Relations and is held dearly in the hearts of many a Kearney girl. Congratulations Sr. Virginia and thank you for your dedication! Sister is pictured here with S. Tesa Fitzgerald, President of the Congregation Leadership Team. Maryann McNicholas Dean ’59 is photographed with her granddaughters, Lauren Dean ’21 and Noelle Polanco ’25. Legacy families are alive and well at Fontbonne. These members of the Class of ’62 are ever faithful to their Florida luncheons… Barbara Casolaro Shields wrote in: “Marietta Valerio Lawlor, Mary Errichetti Fletcher, Terry Vacca Saporito, and I lunching at the Delray Sands, Delray Beach. We meet every year to clink glasses and remember the best times!!” 55 56 59
THE FOUNTAIN FONTBONNE HALL ACADEMY 16 Lucille (Lucy) Ferrara Bloom ’64, former art teacher at FH, received her official certification plaque making her a Certified Board Leader for the New Jersey School Boards Association. Congratulations! Lucille also shared that she used the fabric from her Fontbonne prom dress to have her granddaughter’s christening gown made… what an outstanding way to share a memory! Congratulations to Judith Del Rey Grimaldi ’66 and her partners at Grimaldi and Yeung Law Firm on opening a new office in the Park Slope…all the best of luck to you all. Patricia Sheehan Miller ’71 paid a visit to campus and was reunited with classmate, Gloria Musto. It was wonderful seeing you Pat and so happy you like the new and improved Fontbonne! Members of the Class of ’72, Gae Levantino Grande, Marietta Modica Daly, Mathilda Isabella, Carmela Fina, Jeanette Gatto Carlucci, Debbie Rayo Imbriale, and Linda Savasta celebrate each other…get ready for your 50th!! Sumya Ojakli ’80 is a Managing Director at Theorem 3 Advisors which provides expertise in business development strategies. Marie Marrone-Moriarty ’81 hosted an “accepted students” evening for our incoming 9th graders and their parents at her home. Thank you for living the charism of hospitality and welcoming prospective families into our Fontbonne family. Elisa Pierno Cafaro ’84 shared this photo collage of herself at her FH graduation and her daughter Amanda ’22 …the legacy and tradition lives on. 64 71 80
THE FOUNTAIN FONTBONNE HALL ACADEMY 17 Danielle Dunn Gilbride ’84 is the Intelligence Ops Chief for the DEA. Jacqueline Doyle, Esq. ’85 has completed Cornell University Certificate Program - Women in Executive Leadership. Congratulations! Lisa Bova-Hiatt ’87 holds the position of General Council at the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA). Michelle Ferino Mastromarino, Christina Corso, Lucy DiRosa Rizzi, and Marianne Calogero DeStefano, all from the Class of 1989, joined former teacher Mary DeSanctis Carmosino for a fun dinner at Zio Toto. Thanks for sharing! Happy to see your smiling faces…. Rev. Canon Susanne Culhane ’91 hosted and participated in “Operation Gobbler Giving” in November 2021. “Reaching–Out” is an organization which services the community by providing food pantries with provisions and ran this Thanksgiving dinner program. Josephine Cavaliere ’94 is the new Director of Sales at “Celebrate” at Snug Harbor. Congratulations Josephine! Dr. Monica Kennedy ’94 mentored Alyssa Fiorentino ’22 at her veterinary practice… Patricia Gagliano ’96 and high school sweetheart, Spencer Sanders, welcomed daughter, Grace-Evangeline Shea Sanders to their family on April 13, 2022. Liz Berger ’03 is becoming the head of Risk and Compliance at ORDER. Congratulations! You will lead this new company smashingly! Christy Wang ’06 is a CPA and manager at KKR and Co., Inc. 84 89 96
THE FOUNTAIN FONTBONNE HALL ACADEMY 18 LaToya Raveneau ’08 is the executive producer and writer for “The Proud Family: Louder Prouder”, “Rise Up and Sing Out” and a few other productions on Disney + and Disney Jr. Props for your great work LaToya! Gabriella De Luca ’09 was recently promoted to Senior Manager at Golin Health. Tommasina Faratro ’09 is currently working on a doctorate in Higher Education Administration and Supervision. She is a special projects coordinator at John Jay College Institute for Justice and Opportunity. Ciara McCone ’09 is an attorney and works with HeartShare St. Vincent Services. This organization provides foster care and preventative services as well as a variety of youth development services. Ciara joined the Junior Board in 2016 and was recently elected to Membership Chair. Thank you Ciara for sharing this. Georgia Van Cooten ’09 is a medical social worker at New York Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist hospital. Amantha Chery ’10 has been promoted to a segment producer at Good Morning America! Well done you. Anna-Lisa D’Onofrio ’11 is a senior manager for program marketing at Energy Hub. Her projects help find innovative ways for utility companies to enhance grid stability which will allow them to reduce their reliance on fossil fuels…so interesting and timely!!! Wedding bells rang out this year and Chantal Lizzi Gamson ’11 shared these photos of her special day. Congratulations to Chantal and Matthew! Enjoy your life together and your Connecticut home! 09 11
THE FOUNTAIN FONTBONNE HALL ACADEMY 19 Gabriella Castellano ’13 has been promoted to Assistant District Attorney at the Kings County District Attorney’s Office in New York City. Congratulations! Congratulations to Alexandria Paterno ’13 who was sworn in as Assistant District Attorney, District Attorney’s Office Richmond County! Fontbonne has the boroughs covered! Athena Sofides ’15 has been accepted to Yale School of the Environment and will pursue a Masters in Environmental Science. Melissa Safi ’16 is pursuing a Masters of International Affairs at CCNY Colin Powell School for Global and Civil Leadership. She interned for the United Nations Department of Peacekeeping Operations in the Justice and Corrections Service. 15 13
THE FOUNTAIN FONTBONNE HALL ACADEMY 20 Special shout out to Monica Bressi ’16, Kayla Mc Henry ’17, Anne Russo ’17, Gab Agliata ’19, Amanda Celona ’19 and Theresa Golden ’19, and Christina Rugiero ’19 for answering the call for Sports Night judges… you were marvelous! Kristen Kupper ‘21 received the McGuire Scholarship upon her acceptance into St. Francis College Honors program and has received the Msgr. John Kean Scholarship as a result of achieving Dean’s List status. Congratulations Kristen on your academic achievements… Well done you! 21
THE FOUNTAIN FONTBONNE HALL ACADEMY 21 Kate Collins ’18 has been named to the fall 2021 Dean's List at Loyola University Maryland. In order to qualify for the Dean's List at Loyola, a student must achieve a minimum QPA of at least 3.500 for the term, provided that, in the term they have successfully completed courses totaling a minimum of 15 credits. New York Tech student Rawan El-Choum ’17 was named to the Presidential Honor List for fall 2021. To qualify for the Presidential Honor List, a student must achieve a minimum semester GPA of 3.7 and complete at least 12 credit hours without any incomplete grades. Jeanette Esposito ’18, an Early Childhood Education (PreK-4) major has been named to the Dean's List at East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania (ESU) for the Spring 2022 semester of the 2021-2022 academic year. Lauren O'Keefe ’18 was named to the Lasell University Dean's List for their academic performance in the spring 2022 semester. To be named to the Dean's List, Lasell students must complete at least 12 credits as a full-time student and achieve a semester GPA of 3.5 or higher. YOUNG ALUM updates from Merit Merit is an organization that recognizes and verifies the accomplishments of their registered students and reports those accomplishments to the students’ high school. Fontbonne is a member school.
THE FOUNTAIN FONTBONNE HALL ACADEMY 22 FACULTY NOTES There have been many transitions this past year in what is otherwise a very settled faculty… Angela DiGiglio, Esq. ’83, P’20, Former Trustee; Georgina Cruz, Finance; June Deteskey P’20; Linda Jean-Louis, Admin. Assistant to the Principal, P’08; Joanne Russo, Finance Director, P’17, ‘19; Effie Maldari, Event Coordinator and Director of Human Resources,’68; and Anne Russo ’17, attended the Cathedral Club dinner honoring outgoing Bishop DiMarzio. They are pictured here with newly installed Diocesan Bishop Robert Brennan. Sr. Marie Lalande McMullen, former Principal at Fontbonne Hall from 1976 through 1988, was honored at the Sisters of St. Joseph annual Liturgy and Luncheon in April for her years of service to Fontbonne, Academy of St. Joseph, and St. Brendan’s HS. Thank you Sr. Lalande for your years of service and your continued support of Fontbonne. Sister Lalande is pictured here with Mary Ann Spicijaric, former Principal (2013- 2022). From Dr. Herron…Mary Ellen Herron Quinn’s youngest can be seen from time to time napping in a stroller being pushed by a man who claims to be the Interim Principal of Fontbonne Hall Academy. Two-year-old Liam is particularly fond of his Blippi costume. There were several faculty and staff members who celebrated milestones this year. Congratulations for… 20 YEARS OF SERVICE: Neli Brussi Gloria Musto 35 YEARS OF SERVICE: Rosemarie Ganser 40 YEARS OF SERVICE: Ellen Nicoll Many faculty and staff are moving on to new adventures: Michal Ashkenazy Michele Cipriano June Deteskey Stephanie Douglas Ralph Franco Zelina Gaytan Elias Gutierrez Karissa Miles Nicole Mleczkowski Gloria Musto Michael Nolette Anastasia Rege Sarah Stiglianese Adam Williams Natalie Williams Faculty & Staff News Faculty & Staff Transitions
THE FOUNTAIN FONTBONNE HALL ACADEMY 23 Ms. “S” arrived in September of 2013 with a vision for the school that would propel Fontbonne into the 21st century. Mary Ann’s first order of business was to increase and enhance the curriculum offerings. Through her guidance, the number of AP courses offered increased, making our curriculum very competitive and changed the criteria for which students qualified for an AP course, thus making the availability of these courses open to more students. She initiated the Science Research Program as part to the curriculum and made Fontbonne the first high school in Brooklyn where students were able to earn credits from SUNY Albany. Students were mentored by scientists in a variety of fields and conducted college level experiments and research. Many of the students in this program went on to be published and present their work at science conferences across the United States. Two students from this program were also accepted to the prestigious Sophie Davis Biomedical Education Program which has an 8% acceptance rate. It was also through one of her connections, that Fontbonne was chosen as the Alpha and Beta test-site for the role out of Google Classroom, an innovative teaching and learning software that would revolutionize education. Becoming a “google school” allowed Fontbonne to seamlessly move from an emergency closing on Friday, March 13th 2020 to a full remote school on Monday, March 16th. Our students and teachers didn’t miss a beat which allowed our students’ education to continue where other schools and school systems were left floundering through the Covid-19 quarantine. The new Science Suite, located on the second floor of Ita Ford, was also the vision of Ms. S. This teaching and learning space will allow for interdisciplinary studies in a modern interactive space which will not only include state-of-the-art equipment, but will also be a space for the FAB LAB and AI (Artificial Intelligence) work. We thank Ms. S for bringing her vision to Fontbonne and moving our school forward. We wish her Godspeed and many continued blessings in all her future endeavors. Principal Mary Ann Spicijaric A Farewell to We welcome Dr. Fred Herron as our interim Principal. Dr. Herron has spent more than half his life as a member of the faculty. He brings a long-standing connection to Fontbonne, starting with his mother-in-law. Mary Kenny Tobin, who was an alumna from the first graduating class of 1941 and his daughter, Mary Ellen Herron Quinn, Class of 2000. Fred taught Religion for many years, was Chair of the Religion Department, served on the Middle States Accreditation Committee, and was a guidance counselor and campus minister. His other accomplishments include serving as the Executive Director at Mount Manresa Jesuit Retreat House. He is a member of the Department of Theology and Religious Studies at St. John’s University, and was the Director of Adult Faith Formation at St. Clare’s Parish, Staten Island. He is the author of seven books that reflect on faith and Catholic education and has been a guest speaker on Catholic education and spirituality at a number of colleges and universities including the University of Notre Dame, Boston College, Marquette University, and the University of Portland, Oregon. He is married to Kathleen and they are the parents of five children and proud grandparents. Dr. Herron has hit the ground running and we know Fontbonne is in good hands…welcome home Fred! Dr. Fred Herron Welcome to
THE FOUNTAIN FONTBONNE HALL ACADEMY 24 THE PRINCIPALS of FONTBONNE HALL ACADEMY Sister Mary Dolorita, CSJ 1937 – 1944 Sister Mary Henrica Lilly, CSJ 1944 – 1945 Sister Mary Agnes McConnell, CSJ 1954 – 1960 Sister Inez Marie, CSJ 1960 – 1966 Sister Clare Agnes McNamara, CSJ 1966 – 1969 Sister Anne Patricia Clancy, CSJ 1988 – 2005 Sister Dolores F. Crepeau, CSJ 2005 – 2013 Ms. Mary Ann Spicijaric 2013 – 2022
THE FOUNTAIN FONTBONNE HALL ACADEMY 25 Sister Clement Maria Barrett, CSJ 1945 – 1946 Sister Mary Alonzo Boyan, CSJ 1946 – 1948 Sister Mary Lucide O’Neill, CSJ 1948 – 1954 Sister Mary Eugene Bradley, CSJ 1969 – 1970 Sister Maria Frederick Stapleton, CSJ 1970 – 1976 Sister Marie Lalande McMullen, CSJ 1976 – 1988 Dr. Fred Herron 2022 – present
THE FOUNTAIN FONTBONNE HALL ACADEMY 26 2022 INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY Fontbonne celebrated International Women’s Day with an assembly of accomplished alumnae and break-out sessions for students to have one-on-one time for questions of particular interest. This celebration of women also served as a career day for our 11th and 12th grade students who met with our alumnae after the program. ANNETTE SCOTTO ’11 Annette Scotto graduated Fontbonne Hall Academy in 2011 and continued on to CUNY City College’s School of Engineering. It was there that she was introduced to the world of Environmental Engineering. Annette particularly was interested in the field of solid waste and recycling. She graduated from City College with a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Engineering and went on to work as Solid Waste Coordinator at HDR, an architecture and engineering consulting firm where she has now been for over four years. Her experience spans North America and she has worked on a variety of environmental projects including solid waste management planning, waste-to-energy facilities, construction monitoring, septic inspections, noise monitoring, soil drilling and more. Annette is a published author in MSW Management magazine where she wrote about the use of social media platforms to educate and inform the public about modern recycling. She also serves on the board of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME). Annette’s interest in the engineering world continues to grow as she gets to work on more projects that improve the world we live in.
THE FOUNTAIN FONTBONNE HALL ACADEMY 27 Melissa Safi is currently a Rule of Law Intern at the United Nations Department of Peacekeeping Operations (UNDPO). As a graduate student pursuing her Masters in International Affairs from CCNY’s Colin Powell School for Global and Civic Leadership, her research specialties include human rights (specifically women and children) in the Middle East and North African region, counterterrorism, and international peace and security. While pursuing a Bachelors in Political Science from the John Jay College of Criminal Justice, she had the opportunity to conduct specialized research for several United Nations entities abroad including: UNODC, UNHCR, UNESCWA, and UNIFIL. Melissa is a powerful and positive Lebanese-American, feminist force in the workplace. She owes her tireless energy to encourage the women around her to the experiences she had as a Bonnie. Her experiences as the President of the Political Issues Club and the Co-President of the Women’s Empowerment Club at Fontbonne Hall Academy led her to pursue the passions she has today. MELISSA SAFI ‘16 After graduating from Fontbonne in 2014, she attended the University of New Haven in West Haven, Connecticut. In 2018, she graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, with a concentration in Investigative Services, and three minors in Psychology, Sociology and Political Science. From there, Melissa attended St. John’s University School of Law, where she was an Articles Editor on St. John’s Law Review and the Journal of Catholic Legal Studies. Her Not e, entitled, Extraordinar y (Circumstances) Injustice, was recently published and is available in Volume 94, Issue 4 of St. John’s Law Review. In 2021, she graduated cum laude from St. John’s Law. This past December she was officially admitted to the practice of law in New York State. Ms. Capalbo is currently an associate attorney at Kasowitz Benson Torres, LLP, in the New York City office, and her practice focuses on complex commercial litigation. MELISSA CAPALBO ‘14
THE FOUNTAIN FONTBONNE HALL ACADEMY 28 MEHVISH ALI ‘03 Mehvish Ali attended West Virginia Wesleyan College after graduating from Fontbonne in 2003 and majored in Psychology. She shared that moving from NYC to a slow-paced country life at Wesleyan was a big adjustment but soon found her footing and joined the soccer team making that adjustment much easier. Although a psych major, Ms. Ali always had a passion for art and fashion. Upon graduation from Wesleyan, she pursued this passion and was accepted as an intern at Daine Von Furstenberg fashion house. She then made a move to Los Angeles, CA to work for Vince Camuto. “My education, both at Fontbonne and Wesleyan, provided me with the skills and confidence to follow my dreams. Living all over the country and working in different industries enhanced my skill and knowledge base and my life experience which has allowed me to succeed in a variety of fields. Sometimes life takes you in many different directions, not only geographically but also professionally. With a sound educational background and confidence, you can succeed in whatever you decide to do!” Mehvish is currently living in New York City and is an Operations Manager for Amazon. CHRISTINA MAROTTA-MENDEZ ‘02 Christina is an award winning portrait photographer in Brooklyn, NY. Her love of photography started as a teen when her dad gifted her a camera. She was able to hone those skills in Fontbonne’s art classes and the college where she received a BS in Mathematics. She left photography for a little while, and then in 2009 a year after her father passed from a 1.5 year battle with cancer, came right back to photography. In 2011 she started her own business. Since then she has built a business that meets the needs of families to create oncein-a-lifetime memories and artwork for their homes.
THE FOUNTAIN FONTBONNE HALL ACADEMY 29 CHRISTINA CALASCIONE ‘14 Christina Calascione is a proud Bonnie! She graduated Fontbonne in 2014. After graduation, she attended CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice where she received a Bachelor of Science degree in Fraud Examination and Financial Forensics. From there, Christina attended CUNY College of Staten Island for a Masters of Science degree in Accounting. Ms. Calascione is also a Certified Fraud Examiner. While obtaining her Masters, she was employed at PKF O’Connor Davies LLP in their Forensic, Valuation, and Litigation department, where she worked with defense attorneys for clients in trouble with white collar crime and criminal tax charges. Now, Christina is a Special Agent for the IRS, Criminal Investigation, where she investigates financial crimes for the federal government. ALEXIS J. GRAFAKOS ‘07 Alexis J. Grafakos (she/her) originally from Brooklyn, NY, graduated from Fontbonne in 2007 and continued her education at SUNY College at Old Westbury (OW). At OW, Alexis was a very involved student leader on campus, gaining experiences from residence life and student activities. Upon graduating from Fontbonne, Alexis dreamed of being a second grade teacher but her campus involvement in college showed her a different side to the field of education. Alexis graduated from Old Westbury with a BA in English, after several changes to her major. She immediately went into a graduate program for Higher Education at New York University, where she graduated in 2013. Alexis moved out of the city to Geneseo, NY to begin her first full-time job as a Residence Hall Director. In 2016, Alexis came back to NYC and now works at SUNY Maritime College as an Area Coordinator. Throughout her career, she has had additional training and experiences in the following areas: mental health/first aid certification, Safe Space facilitation, first-year student advisement, and Title IX investigations. While holding her positions full-time, Alexis has also served on her sorority’s [Hermandad de Sigma Iota Alpha, Inc] national executive board as Vice President of Undergraduate Affairs and currently as the Vice President of Risk Management. In her free time, Alexis loves to travel (has visited 15 countries!), cook, and spend time with her two fur demons.
THE FOUNTAIN FONTBONNE HALL ACADEMY 30 COLLEGE ACCEPTANCES Class of 2022 Adelphi University Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences Alfred University American University Arcadia University Arizona State University, Tempe Auburn University Barry University Baylor University Bentley University Boston College Boston University Bryant University Bucknell University Caldwell University California University of Pennsylvania Case Western Reserve University Central Connecticut State University Central State University Chaminade University of Honolulu Champlain College Chapman University City University of New York Bernard M Baruch College Borough of Manhattan Community College Bronx Community College Brooklyn College City College of New York College of Staten Island Hunter College John Jay College of Criminal Justice Kingsborough Community College LaGuardia Community College Lehman College Macaulay Honors College Medgar Evers College Queens College The Sophie Davis School of Biomedical Education York College Clarkson University Clemson University Coastal Carolina University College of Charleston College of Mount Saint Vincent College of the Holy Cross College of William and Mary Colorado State University, Fort Collins Concordia University, Irvine Connecticut College Curry College Daemen College DeSales University Drew University Drexel University Duquesne University Elon University Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Daytona Beach Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Prescott Emmanuel College Fairfield University Fairleigh Dickinson University, Florham Campus Fairleigh Dickinson University, Metropolitan Campus Florida Atlantic University Florida International University Florida Southern College Florida State University Fordham University Georgetown University Georgia State University Gettysburg College Hartwick College High Point University Hofstra University Indiana University, Bloomington Iona College Ithaca College James Madison University Johnson & Wales University, Providence Lake Eerie College of Osteopathic Medicine La Salle University Lasell University Le Moyne College Lehigh University LIM College Long Island University, Brooklyn Long Island University, Global Louisiana State University Loyola University, Chicago Loyola University, Maryland Lynn University Manhattan College Manhattanville College Marist College Marquette University Maryland Institute College of Art Marymount Manhattan College Marywood University Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences McDaniel College Mercer University Mercy College Michigan State University
THE FOUNTAIN FONTBONNE HALL ACADEMY 31 Michigan Technological University Misericordia University Molloy College Monmouth University Montclair State University Morgan State University Mount Saint Mary College Mount Saint Mary’s University Muhlenberg College Nazareth College New England College New Jersey Institute of Technology New York Institute of Technology New York University Niagara University North Carolina State University at Raleigh Northeastern University Nova Southeastern University Pace University, New York City Campus Pace University, Westchester Campus Palm Beach Atlantic University Pennsylvania State University, Penn State Main Campus Pennsylvania State University, Penn State Abington Pennsylvania State University, Penn State Erie-Behrend College Pennsylvania State University, Penn State Scranton Pennsylvania State University, Penn State York Campus Pratt Institute, Main Providence College Quinnipiac University Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Rider University Rochester Institute of Technology Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology Rowan University Rutgers University, New Brunswick Rutgers University, Newark Sacred Heart University Saint Francis University Saint Joseph’s University Salve Regina University San Diego State University Santa Clara University Savannah College of Art and Design Seton Hall University Siena College Southeastern University St. Bonaventure University St. Francis College St. John Fisher College St. John’s University, Staten Island St. John’s University, Queens St. Joseph’s College, Brooklyn St. Joseph’s College, Long Island St. Mary’s University St. Thomas Aquinas College St. Thomas University Stevens Institute of Technology Stockton University Stonehill College State University of New York: Albany Binghamton Buffalo State College at Brockport Cortland College at Geneseo College at Oswego College of Technology at Delhi Farmingdale State Fashion Institute of Technology Morrisville New Paltz Oneonta Purchase College Stony Brook University University at Buffalo Susquehanna University Syracuse University Temple University Texas A & M University, College Station The Catholic University of America The College of New Jersey The New School The Ohio State University, Main Campus The University of Alabama The University of Arizona The University of Scranton The University of Tampa The University of Tennessee-Knoxville The University of Texas at Austin Thomas Jefferson University Towson University Trinity College Tulane University of Louisiana Union College University of Bridgeport University of Colorado Boulder University of Connecticut University of Dayton University of Delaware University of Florida University of Georgia University of Hartford University of Hawaii at Manoa University of Maryland, College Park University of Miami University of Michigan, Ann Arbor University of Michigan, Dearborn University of Mississippi University of New Haven University of New Orleans University of North Carolina, Charlotte University of North Carolina, Wilmington University of Notre Dame University of Pittsburgh University of Rhode Island University of South Carolina, Columbia University of South Dakota University of South Florida, Main Campus University of Vermont University of Wisconsin-Madison Ursinus College Utica University Villanova University Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Virginia State University Wagner College Wake Forest University Wells College West Chester University of Pennsylvania West Virginia University Wilkes University Xavier University York College of Pennsylvania
THE FOUNTAIN FONTBONNE HALL ACADEMY 32
THE FOUNTAIN FONTBONNE HALL ACADEMY 33 SUMMER SOIRÉE In June, Fontbonne held our Summer Soirée. Special thanks to alumnae, parents, local businesses, and friends who went above and beyond to sponsor, donate, and attend this event.
THE FOUNTAIN FONTBONNE HALL ACADEMY 34 The Alumnae Office welcomed the Class of 1962 as the latest class to be inducted into the Alumnae Emeritae Society. ALUMNAE EMERITAE SOCIETY JANUARY 2022 If you are 70 ½ or older you can use your IRA to make a gift directly to Fontbonne? IT’S EASY TO DO AND IT WILL: • Count toward your RMD • Be excluded from your gross income and federal taxes • Support Fontbonne’s academics and scholarship awards Did you know... To get started, email [email protected]. Susan Reid Adams Marie Begnato Addeo Irene Clare Beck, EdD Jeannine Belford Dolores Maresca Berrafato Susan Cosentino Bove Margaret Guella Carlson Helen Pastori Chambers Rosa Mastrojanni Chamides Christine Chionchio Elizabeth Hayes Clarke Regina Longo Cofrin Joanne Collins Elizabeth Larocca Cooke Amalia Alberti Cornick Joann Cosenza Patricia Pellegrino Curi Virginia Redington Dawes Frances Bianco DeMeo Doreen Dempsey Joy Mesiti DePrizio Rita Montemora Desiderio Ninette Giuffrida Dorsett Judith Fairchild Mary Errichetti Fletcher Donna Circharo Flood Elizabeth Notine Gallagher Connie (Concetta) DeVito Gilmore Margaret Glynn Anne Goetz Phyllis Ciovolella Goodman Catherine Grogan Ann Flynn Grossman Sally Brennan Heaney Ann Black Hickey Kathleen Hutchinson Hudson Anne Marcovecchio Innamorato Kathryn Jackson Barbara Spatafora Johnson Christina Dunne Keating Mary Monaco Keller, PhD. Kathryn Flynn Kennedy Constance LaGioia Marietta Valerio Lawlor Margaret Finn Lebitz Maria LoForte Patrice Lombardo Joan Marion Joan Conolly Marone Maria Trimboli Maxwell Joanne Prete Mazzini Maureen McConnell Diane DePrizio Moghuso Carol Rinaldi Musachio Lorretta O’Conner Marion Shearer Orkin Marilyn Fiero Overstreet Catherine Renella Parenti Mary Riley Carol Jankowski Rowell Marie Troiano Russo Jane Ryan Johanna Salviani Kathleen Campbell Sanjurjo Theresa Vacca Saporito Patricia Platz Scanlon Roberta Schubert Joan Schreiner Roberta Santoro Schubert Lorraine Reuter Shanahan Barbara Casolaro Shields Teresa Smith Ellen McGlyn Solenky Ann Kristensen Sorensen Annabeth Spaulding Kathleen Hegarty Stanton Nina Baliotti Stromberg Marianne Gasson Taylor Elfriede Turk Marilyn Pedalino Ullmark Helen Myers Vail Frances Pino Valentino Janet Ventiera Joanne Guccione Wagner
THE FOUNTAIN FONTBONNE HALL ACADEMY 35 Dear Sister Alumna, It is no easy feat to reach 85 years of service in the education world in this day and age. Yet, Fontbonne reaches this milestone rich in its academic excellence and traditions. Congratulations! It has been an honor to serve as Alumnae Director and to make this edition of The Fountain my last. Fontbonne continues to lead in all areas; secondary Catholic education for young women, sports, STEAM, and empowering young girls to be the leaders of tomorrow. I leave this position in excellent hands. Your new alumnae coordinator, Juliette Piccini Tugander ’81, is a legacy alumna and a parent of two graduates. She holds Fontbonne close to her heart. Take pride dear sisters, stay close, answer Fontbonne’s call when made, I know I will…and remember, that it IS and always will be…Fontbonne forever! With my warmest regards, Gloria Gloria A. Musto ’71 Alumnae Director “We face the future fortified with the lessons we have learned from the past. It is today that we must create the world of the future.” ELEANOR ROOSEVELT A message from GLORIA A. MUSTO Dear Alumnae, As part of a legacy family, Fontbonne has always been part of my life, from watching my sisters perform in Sports Night when I was a little girl, to listening to my own daughter present her research at the Science Symposium in 2021. I am so happy to have the opportunity to come back to Fontbonne and work with you. Come back with me. Continue to support us, update your contact information, and let us know about important events in your lives. Together, we can bring the best of Fontbonne’s past into its promising future. Fondly, Juliette Juliette Piccini Tugander ’81, P’15, ’21 Alumnae Relations Coordinator A message from JULIETTE PICCINI TUGANDER
WWW.FONTBONNE.ORG OFFICE OF ALUMNAE RELATIONS 9901 SHORE ROAD, BROOKLYN, NY 11209 2023 March 8 - International Women’s Day March 25 - Sports Night April 28-30 - Drama Presentation May 12 - Spring Concert Upcoming Events 2022-2023 School Year FONTBONNE HALL ACADEMY