Onyx Anneau Spring 2021

SPRING 2021/Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College Magazine

VIRTUAL MEETINGS HAVE BECOME THE NEW NORM

A CHERISHED TRADITION — THE WOODS RING

’68 ALUM RECALLS MAKING VOTING HISTORY

Deanna Bradley, right, will retire in May 2021 after serving the College for 30 years. Bradley served as athletic director since she joined The Woods in 1991, pioneering the program and making it what it is today — 14 varsity scholarship athletic teams. She also served as the head women’s basketball coach from 1992 to 2018. President Dottie L. King, Ph.D., announced the center court in Hamilton Arena will be named for Bradley for all she has accomplished, and for the heart she brought to her job. King shared, “We are a Catholic institution, faith is a part of who we are. Deanna never forgot that. She recruited coaches, coached students and the mission was always close to her heart. That is the foundation she has built for our athletics teams which will go on into our future.”

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An ever-evolving legacy A note from President Dottie King

Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College is a wonderfully complex institution! Our 180 years of education provides so many stories that allow us to look back, remember and be blessed by the generations which came before us. At the same time, we eagerly look forward and continue to dream, innovate and create an ever-evolving legacy. Deep roots provide such a strong foundation for new branches swaying with the winds of today. When you read in this edition of Onyx Anneau of an alumna traveling with Sisters of Providence to assist with voter registration for African American people in 1965, our 99th Ring Day and the enduring tradition that includes a Legacy Ring Program, and the ways the College has embedded a virtual reality into the educational experience of our students and even our celebration of Reunion, you can’t help but marvel at the resourcefulness, resilience and dogged persistence of our College. We enjoy a rich history that is remembered and celebrated, and it becomes an important thread for our present and future. May we ever be brave adventurers, willing to sacrifice for the good of new generations who will be blessed to hear our stories and challenged to add their own as part of our collective Woods journey! Blessings,

Dottie L. King, Ph.D. President

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ONYX Anneau SPRING ISSUE 2021

Vol. 95

No. 3

Karen Dyer Editor in Chief Vice President for Advancement and Strategic Initiatives BJ Riley ’16 Editorial Director Director of Marketing Marissa Schmitter Managing Editor Content Marketing Specialist Kristy Fry Creative Director Director of Creative Services CONTRIBUTORS Jennifer Fredricks Dorsey ’97 Lindsey Richardt ’07 Catherine Mickey Saunders ’98 Heather Tighe Dylan Thomas ’18, ’21G Sue Weatherwax

The Simmons triplets are taking after their mother, Jessica Olsen Simmons ’72 , as the juniors received Woods Rings during the 1 p.m. Ring Ceremony on March 20, 2021. L to R: Jessica Olsen Simmons ’72 is pictured with her children, Hailey, Christopher and Ashley and husband, Brian Simmons.

Contents

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ON THE COVER Students and alumni love to visit the statue of Saint Mother Theodore Guerin and place their Woods Rings into her hand following the annual ceremony.

CHERISHED: A RING TO KEEP 4

Please send correspondence to: Office of Advancement PO Box 70 Saint Mary of the Woods, IN 47876-0070 Phone: 812-535-5270 E-mail: alumni@smwc.edu © 2021 by Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College Printed in the U.S.A. All rights reserved. Every effort has been made to ensure that all information contained in this magazine is accurate.

MARTIN LUTHER KING JR.’S CALL 6

INSIDE EVERY ISSUE The Woods Today........................................8

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Virtual meetings keep alumni in touch By Marissa Schmitter

Resilience was shown by students at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College during the pandemic, and by alumni who missed Reunion and other alumni events such as Homecoming due to COVID-19. Face- to-face interactions had come to a halt, however connections were still being made, screen-to-screen. Getting in front of a camera, whether by phone, tablet or computer, became a normal occurrence for those wanting to stay connected. Judith Anne Gilberti ’79 found this time of uneasiness an important time to check in with her classmates, which she did by sending notes, cards and hosting a Zoom session, a now widely known platform. “I was trying to make it as warm and welcoming as possible,” Gilberti said. The class used their Zoom time to toast The Woods and classmates. As the world shut down last March, nearly all scheduled events at the College were cancelled or postponed, including Reunion 2020. This was difficult for alumni who were to celebrate as well as the College staff planning the celebration. “I love staying connected with our alumni and hearing how they are doing. Not coming together for Reunion or Homecoming last year was heartbreaking,” Sarah Stultz Mahady ’05 , director of alumni relations, said. “Our world was turned upside down with the pandemic, professionally and personally. No one really knew how significantly it

would impact our lives and work. What did we do? We picked up the phone and began calling our alumni and found a way to connect with them.” The College hosted a series of virtual alumni gatherings, featuring updates from President Dottie King, while alumni hosted gatherings with their classmates and fellow Woodsies — some scheduling regular monthly meetings. In less than one year, the College hosted 20 virtual meetings. Margot Rudge Sullivan ’63 helps keep the Southern California alumni and friends in touch by utilizing Zoom. “We have a wonderful group that has grown quite close even though we are from different classes,” she said. Sullivan said they usually meet in person, but the virtual meetings help to keep each other in the know about both their lives and the College. For some, the use of technology was new, but that was a challenge Gilberti gladly accepted as she sent directions and encouraged her fellow alumni who were still learning. She is hoping to host another session this summer to do what she calls “keeping it special.”

While Zoom and Microsoft Teams created new pathways for connection, Mahady says it cannot quite replace being together in-person. “Seeing everyone at Reunion and Homecoming, reminiscing and sharing stories is a feeling that cannot be put into words,” she said. “I look forward to visiting with our alumni and seeing them reconnect with each other this year in-person as life slowly begins to return to normal following a year of being shut- down and isolated from each other during the pandemic.” Looking forward, Mahady believes that the team has gained new knowledge and practices that will enable the College to continue to connect with alumni who may not be able to return to campus or attend an event. “Our programming will benefit from all that we’ve learned and will continue to include virtual opportunities as we move into a post-pandemic world,” she said. Virtual elements will become a staple for events such as Reunion and Homecoming, allowing more alumni to stay connected to each other and to The Woods.

Reunion will be hosted in-person from May 21 to 23, 2021. The deadline to register is May 1. Virtual events will be held for those who wish to participate remotely — check smwc.edu/alumni/ for updates. The College is following COVID-19 protocols and guidelines closely to allow for a safe and enjoyable Reunion.

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Cherished: A Ring

to Keep

By Jennifer Fredericks Dorsey ’97, Ph.D.

A symbol of the longstanding instantly recognizable the world over. With this year serving as the penultimate celebration leading up to next year’s 100th anniversary of the Woods Ring, the traditional awarding of Rings took place on March 20, 2021, in two ceremonies. More than 100 campus, Woods Online and graduate students received their Rings. As important as the Woods Ring is to students and alumni, it is not an inexpensive purchase. Depending on the metal, costs for the Ring can range from $375 to $1,700, creating a financial barrier for some students. Two programs are available to help bridge this cost gap for those who need assistance purchasing a ring: the Legacy Ring Program and the Woods Ring Scholarship Program. Awards for both programs are decided by a committee of staff and faculty — many of whom are alumni — based upon applications from the students. The Legacy Ring Program allows alumni and their families to donate pre-owned legacy rings to juniors who qualify on the basis of financial need. Anna Madden ’18, ’20G , currently serves on the Alumni Board of Directors and is a legacy Ring recipient. “I applied for a legacy ring, because I not only wanted to enjoy the piece of home close to my heart on a daily basis, but I wanted a reminder to carry on The Woods’ values, education and traditions in my forthcoming career and life,” Madden says. Olivia Wendell ’20 , holds her B.S. in music therapy and will be starting her master’s in music therapy at SMWC in the fall while working at Rhythm Garden Music, LLC in Jasonville, Indiana. She is the proud recipient of a legacy Ring from the traditions of Saint Mary-of-the- Woods College (SMWC), the Ring is

Olivia Wendell ’20 is the proud recipient of a Legacy Ring from the estate of Sue Pietrus, SP, ’72 who served as SMWC’s director of choirs and Madrigals for 28 years.

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The Yaw family donates a 10-carat Ring each year. Pictured left to right is Lisa McCormick, Elizabeth Yaw ’92 , Dorothy Carole Bonwell Yaw ’91 , Allison Parks and Elaine Yaw ’95 .

estate of Sue Pietrus, SP, ’72 . who served as Chorale and Madrigals director in the music department prior to her death in 2008. Wendell says wearing Pietrus’ Ring is a daily reminder of their shared love of music. “As a recent graduate from the music department, it fills me with joy knowing that I can continue

[Stipanovich] ’52 and The Woods after receiving my Ring on my Ring Day was overwhelming joy, the same joy I feel when I glance at my ring today,” Madden says. “I’m grateful to Alice and her family for allowing me the chance to wear this Ring with pride.” The legacy of these programs is one the College hopes to continue for a long time. Saunders, associate vice president for advancement, says,

Donating to the scholarship program is a family affair for the Yaw women, who decided to donate a 10-carat Ring each year. Dorothy Carole Bonwell Yaw ’91, Ph.D. , and her daughters, SMWC associate professor of

“I talked it over with Elaine and Elizabeth and we decided to give a Ring scholarship as a family, because we love our Rings.” — Dorothy Carole Bonwell Yaw ’91, Ph.D.

making music in her memory,” Wendell says. While the origins of the Legacy Ring Program likely began when family members began passing Rings down to relatives and close friends, it has branched out to include bequests as well as donations

“We are deeply grateful to the generous alumni who have donated legacy Rings and provided funding for students who need assistance with purchasing their Rings.”

in honorarium from living alumni who wish to pass on their Rings.

media art Elaine Yaw ’95 and Elizabeth Yaw ’92 , are members of the East Central Illinois/ West Central Indiana Alumni Club. “ Catherine Mickey Saunders ’98 attends our meetings once or twice a year. At our last meeting in 2019, she talked about the Woods Ring and how several students could not afford them, so they had started scholarships. I talked it over with Elaine and Elizabeth, and we decided to give a Ring scholarship as a family, because we love our Rings,” Dorothy says. “The Ring is a symbol to all of us of the dedication The Woods has shown to educate women and empower them,” Dorothy says. Madden feels this inter-generational bond every day. “The connection I felt to Alice

To participate in the program, alumni may contact the SMWC Office of Advancement and Alumni Affairs. For more information, visit smwc.edu/legacy-ring .

This creates a connection — one that helped Patricia “Patsy” Lysaught Oser ’70 decide to donate her Ring while she is still around to meet the student who will wear it next. She would like to see more alums give their Rings to mark special reunion years and create a new tradition of giving with the Ring to build inter-generational alumni relationships. “If I can give this back and remind someone else of the memories they have, those moments will be just as special as the Ring,” Oser says. Woods alumni can make Ring Day a reality for more students by participating in the Woods Ring Scholarship Program. This program helps students defray the cost of a Ring.

Do you have a Woods Ring story to share? Plans are currently underway for a big celebration in 2022 for the Ring’s 100th anniversary. Let us know what the Ring means to you.

Email alumni@smwc.edu to share your Woods Ring story and photos.

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SMWC answered Martin Luther King, Jr.’s call to MAKE. EVERY.

As the Voting Rights Act made its way through Congress in the summer of 1965, two SMWC faculty members

and six students hit the streets of Albany, Georgia, to help thousands register to vote.

By Lindsey Richardt ‘07

Alma Louise Mescher, SP, ’45 , left, and Mary Jean Mark, SP, led a group of six students to Georgia after being invited by Martin Luther King, Jr. to participate in the Summer Community Organization (and) Political Education (SCOPE) program.

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MLK Image Credit: Designsoul/Shutterstock.com

VOTE. COUNT.

Midge Maroni ’68 spent the summer of 1965 in the depths of the civil rights movement. She picketed, she marched, she was arrested, and at one point, she even sought refuge from rifle-bearing members of the Ku Klux Klan. That summer, she and three other Saint Mary-of-the- Woods College (SMWC) students, along with two students from Indiana State University (ISU), followed SMWC associate professors Alma Louise Mescher, SP, ’45 and Mary Jean Mark, SP to the deep south for one purpose: to fight for the rights of Black voters. During the spring term of 1965, Marie Perpetua Hayes ’33, SP , then-president of SMWC, received a letter from Martin Luther King, Jr. inviting the College to participate in the Summer Community Organization [and] Political Education (SCOPE) program. As pressure was building for the United States Congress to pass what would become the Voting Rights Act, King was seeking volunteers from academic communities across the country to spend the summer battling disenfranchisement in the South. This was a dangerous mission. By 1965, the civil rights movement was in full swing. America had witnessed civil rights workers putting their lives on the line as they fought for equal opportunities and voting rights. Maroni recalls her parents’ hesitation when she asked for permission to participate. Her request came just one month after civil rights activists were brutally attacked and beaten by Alabama state troopers in a march known as Bloody Sunday. “It was a really pivotal part in American history, not only for African Americans who were treated as second class citizens, but for our nation as a whole. It was a sad and a proud legacy — sad because of the tragedies and brutalization, and proud because so many people in America finally understood that the injustice could not stand,” said Maroni. Sister Mark, who was well known in the Terre Haute, Indiana, community for her ecumenical work, asked local businesses to support the project and they responded generously. In

SMWC faculty member, also loaned his car. With support from the community, The Woods answered King’s call. Maroni, Susan Sperry ’68 , Juanita Garcia-Maldonado Sayres ’65 , Margarete Baum ’67 , as well as two students who knew Sister Mark through the ISU campus ministry program, Barbara (Koester) Foster and Robert Mullins, followed the professors to Georgia. After orientation and training in Atlanta, the SMWC group was stationed in Albany, a medium-sized city located in southwest Georgia. The goal was to educate and register as many Black voters as possible. On a typical day, they hosted educational programming for children during the day and adult literacy in the evening out of an abandoned building which had been turned into a school. By the end of the summer, the group had racked up a few arrests and dangerous run-ins with the opposition — the bullet holes in the back of rabbi Cohen’s car were a poignant reminder of the dangers associated with the movement. The Voting Rights Act was signed by Congress on Aug. 6, 1965, prohibiting the unfair practices used to prevent Black people from registering to vote. According to a report on the Civil Rights Movement Archive, the project registered more than 49,000 new voters across six states and impacted nearly a million others through political and literacy education. Fifty-five years later, Maroni says this was a pivotal time in her life that has led to what has become a life-long commitment to justice. “Reflecting on the summer of 1965, it was a glorious, climactic time because of the passage of the Voting Rights Act that August,” Maroni said. “I recall Reverend King’s reference to the moral arc of the universe bending toward justice and I feel that arc does not bend by itself. Justice, decency and love are not passive: human beings must actively embrace them to bend and pull that moral arc.”

This abandoned building in Albany, Georgia, was turned into a school where SMWC faculty and SMWC students taught educational programming to children and literacy to adults.

addition to monetary donations, an ISU professor provided adult literacy training and a local Dodge dealership loaned the group a car for the summer. Rabbi Bernard Cohen, leader of the United Hebrew Congregation in Terre Haute and A daily sing-along was held at the Freedom School in Albany. Sister Alma Louise is seen at front right of the group .

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THE WOODS TODAY

“... my time as an online learner at The Woods has been marked by the kind of quality instruction and deep connections that I know will bear fruit throughout my future ...”

It might seem perplexing that I, someone who has earned two degrees from SMWC’s online programs, would list “community” as one of the things I value most about my time at The Woods. In fact, friends and family have sometimes given me puzzled expressions when I speak about the peer discussions, group projects and very real friendships that have grown out of my time as an online learner. But it’s true — this sense of community is important to me — and SMWC’s skillful use of technology to promote student interaction has been a guiding factor in my decision to pursue higher education at The Woods. I found the experiences and insights of professors and peers have helped to inform my own understanding of the coursework I’ve encountered and my appreciation for the varied and valuable ways different individuals approach a topic. I also found that these interactions have helped to grow me into a professional that values differences of opinion and the dynamic collaboration that can come out of not letting such differences fetter teamwork. As we find ourselves navigating a global pandemic, one might be tempted to think that online coursework is just another avenue of isolation. I would urge reconsideration. My time as an online learner at The Woods has been marked by the kind of quality instruction and deep connections that I know will bear fruit throughout my future and will inform who I am in the communities in which I live and serve.

— Dylan Thomas ’18, ’21G Master of Leadership Development Dylan

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RING DAY MEMORIES

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It is so good to be in touch with you again! A big thank you to Mary Jo Hughey Matheny for her close to 30 years of service to our class. Joan Lewis Ingram is still able to live alone in her condo in Terre Haute. She manages to drive and does her own errands. A letter from one of Christene “Chris” Harries Ladesich’s sons let me know Chris is in a nursing facility following a stroke in March 2020. She is recovering nicely. Anne Stack Connell is grateful to be free of arthritis but is dealing with Macular Degeneration. She still plays bridge and lives with one of her daughters and enjoys her two married grandchildren. She sends love to all the ladies who have reached 90. She has problems with her sight but does get out to play bridge. Jane Sullivan Baylor has stayed close to SMWC and was hoping to attend our 70th Reunion, but she hasn’t been in the best health. Daughter Elizabeth and her husband Ted have given Jane three grandchildren. Angela “Angel” Crowley Kenny has not stopped moving! She is involved with the Legion of Mary and visiting the homebound. After 50 years, she stopped playing the organ for church, but keeping in touch with 19 grandchildren and 35 great grandchildren is time consuming enough! Angel does her own cooking and enjoys it. She is looking forward to Reunion and hoping we are all allowed ‘out’ by then. Julia Rooney Ladne r has been confined to home following hip surgery and a recent fall. Her daughters are looking after her at home during her recuperation. I also contacted several gals who started with us but didn’t graduate with us. Catherine “Cathy” Pert Foley lives in Colorado and is doing well. She has four children and five grandchildren. She has fond memories of SMWC. Gloriann “Gloria” Naumcheff Long is good. She goes to mass weekly, reads, works in the yard, walks and travels. She lives in Michigan. Molly Keane Houlihan lives in Fort Wayne, Indiana, has ten children, and was married for 64 years. She lives alone in a home her and her husband built. She does not drive, but has family meeting her needs. Her health is good, and she has kept in touch with Gloriann Naumcheff Long and Kathleen “Kathy” Kelly Collins . Rosemarie “Rory” Roney Eckman was able to contact Mary Jo Hughey Matheny . She is in a retirement home and is wheelchair bound. They had a lengthy chat. I am still independent but had to stop volunteering at Birthright when we closed due to the pandemic. I try to ignore my arthritis, and I am reading a lot since the pandemic has forced me to stay in mostly. To stay sane, I have been baking quite a bit; my neighbors have been lucky recipients. We will get updates regarding our C L A S S N O T E S ’51 Mary Hoynes Duhigg 2365 Manchester Ln Avon, OH 44011-1670 mchduhigg@att.net

Reunion, which is currently scheduled for May 21- 23. I hope that we will be able to get together. ’52 Rita Burke Gannon 5440 Fox Hollow Dr Boca Raton, FL 33486-8637 jazgannon@yahoo.com In less than a week Rita Burke Gannon ’52 will have her second vaccine shot. She hopes to travel abroad once restrictions allow. Her second term on the board of her homeowner association keeps her very busy. Her parish does a YouTube mass every week for those who cannot attend and it has been comforting to have this close communication. Dennise Keeshan Lafferre ’52 recently retired from being a travel agent. It has been many years of helping her clients successfully enjoying their trips on land and on the seas, cruising. With the pandemic, she is home, waiting for the all clear. She hopes her class of 1952 are healthy and enjoying their families. There are always nice surprises in this job. I had a surprise call from Patricia “Pat” Carbon Etling from Terre Haute. Pat had 10 children, several of whom went to The Woods, and even had weddings in the college church. She has 32 grandchildren, with multiple scientists, doctors and lawyers. On 4th of July, Pat said she had two NFL quarterbacks at the family gathering. Dolores “Dee” Eisenbeil Humm is a faithful responder who like so many spoke of praying for our country. In her area of California, they also prayed for rain. Dee met with Sarah “Sally” McCoy Harrington and husband Jim in New Jersey last year. She also ran into Gay Wasas Ducharme in San Francisco. Gay Wasas Ducharme normally leads city tours and is busy at the Art Museum. She phoned with an update on how COVID has altered her activities in those areas. Carol Nolan, SP is retired and back at SMW. Sister lost her younger sister, Nancy Nolan, SP, ’59 on Dec. 20. She was General Superior from 1986 to 1996. Older sister L ucille “Lucy” Nolan, SP, ’64 lives in Maryvale next to the College and they are hoping the vaccination schedule allows them to get together for St. Patrick’s Day. Sister Carol also reported the College is doing wonderfully. Our Canadian resident classmate, Lois Guertin Doherty , is in about the same boat as those of us “South of the Border.” Lois has dual citizenship and could vote in the U.S. from Canada as I understood. She misses seeing her young grandchildren and enjoys reading to them online. Arlene O’Rourke Hamm was able to do a little traveling this year, spending Thanksgiving in Knoxville, Tennessee and planning for Christmas in Atlanta (virus permitting). Oh for the day when we don’t have to add that! The family celebrated two ’54 Jane Antrobus 5135 Tarrytown Dr Memphis, TN 38117-2125 JANTROBUS3@aol.com

weddings and one great grandchild in 2020. Lucille “Lou” Restifo McGrath lost her husband two years ago. Lou is well and living alone. She has five children and four grandchildren. If she is snowed in another five days, she may find all kinds of things. This is the first time a Memphis, Tennessee snow reminds her of SMW. ’57 Martha Jacob, OSU 128 N Peterson Ave Apt 6 Louisville, KY 40206-3103 (502) 338-3331 mjacob@ursulineslou.org First, I must confess, I failed to ask you for your news in order to meet the Feb. 15 deadline for these Class Notes! Thus, I am writing this on Feb. 14 to meet the deadline. I have managed to talk with some of you and here is what I know. Prayers to the family of Teresa “Dippy” Messina Rogers , who died on Jan. 30, 2021. We extend sympathy and prayers also to Patricia “Peachy” McDonald King on the death of her husband, Paul, in July 2020 and to Julia Rice King on the death of her husband, Marty, in August 2020. Both Pat and Julie are coping. Pat says she only sees her kids and Julie says her large family, including a son in Hong Kong, ‘visit’ by Zoom about once per month. She still works three mornings per week at her parish. Marilyn Marschall Antonik is living in Wilmette, Illinois, in a condo overlooking Lake Michigan. She and Mary Hayes Garvin have strict instructions to stay home while their children meet every need. Marilyn enjoys lectures, book discussions and some classes, plus contacts with family and friends through the internet. Mary’s son lives with her in the family home in Wheaton, Illinois. Rosalie McGlynn continues to live in her family home in Chicago. Her needs are met by her faithful cousins. Alice Geary Sgroi seems to be doing OK in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Camille Grafe Rust retired in March 2020 as a massage and body works therapist. Her ukulele group is still functioning. Peggy Curl Doak and her husband permanently closed their B&B in Rock Island, Illinois, in December 2020. The pandemic and then the winter weather helped them decide it was time to do so! Gertrude “Trudy” Knecht Mazzarella’s life is slower since tours of Christ Cathedral in Orange, California, were suspended in March 2020. She directed the volunteers who gave the tours, as well as showing visitors around. When tours will be resumed is not known, but the Cathedral is now open for services with a 25% attendance. She reports her two sons who live nearby are taking good care of her. Mary “Bonnie” Carroll Kilroy has two complaints – COVID-19 has canceled the outdoor group activities offered at the senior care facility she calls home, and the tornadoes/storms in the New Orleans area in fall 2020 were quite frightening. She is thankful these were not near where she is living. Carol Baker Cardenas lives in Magnolia, Texas. When I spoke with her on Feb. 13 she said people of Magnolia cannot cope with the cold,

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icy weather they were having! She is grateful for heat from the living room fireplace. She has two grandsons at the University of Notre Dame. In 2020, Angela Miller McNamara celebrated two new grandsons and Mary Howard Brown , another great-grandson. Mary was unable to participate in her grandson, Andrew’s September 2020 wedding in the state of Washington because of the pandemic. I learned that Sheila Sullivan McIntyre’s son is planning to ‘rebuild’ her house on the lake. She now lives in Castleton, Vermont, year-round. Marilynn Burdick Stadtmiller is doing well. However, she missed being able to be with her sons’ families for Christmas. She keeps busy on a bowling team and enjoying the time for reading, especially the history of World War II, and the company of her two cats. “I am at peace.” Shirley Walter Wuertz says she is coping, ready for a defeat of COVID-19! I am OK, seem to keep busy with some writing of Ursuline history, helping the Ursuline Sisters Office Staff with various project, and ‘tutoring’/helping a Dominican Sister from Vietnam with English. She is living with us while studying at Bellarmine University, Louisville. Our message to each other is the same! Be careful and stay well. For better news, Carole Marzano Bersinger has recovered from COVID-19, and is playing golf. Her last visit with her family was December 2019. Mary Ellen Bendel Hudson also saw her family then and met her great grandchild, Margie Hudson. Her sister, Ruth, had the virus but has recovered. Mary Ellen and Lew are praying for the end of the pandemic. Kathleen Petrunick Lendzion and I phone each other and she is doing well, misses her family — especially her grandchildren. Bernice “Bernie” Schmitt Ridgway’s family live in Georgia, North Carolina and Virginia and they worry about storms as well as the virus. Sylvia Dickas Coma’s husband, Bob, has health issues but is holding his own. They are looking forward to the mountains of North Carolina this summer. Nancy Mertz Thorson’s husband and children are well and virus free. Marilyn Caserotti Kostenski is in good health but husband, Elmer is showing his age of 92. Jim and Carole Lattus Liggett have gotten their first vaccine shot and all is well. She is in touch with Ellen Narolewski Lau who misses her husband, Reid, but is otherwise doing well. Sandra Chabot Landay sent an update. She and Jerry moved to Rhode Island in 2002 and she began teaching voice and conducting choir at St. Michael’s Church. Jerry died in 2013 and is greatly missed. She is grateful for health, family and singing. David and Letizia “Tish” Fiore Lowman have gotten their first vaccine shots and are all right. One of their grandsons had a mild case of the virus but ’58 Virginia R. Reed (773) 477-6836 Vergrose@aol.com 2850 N Sheridan Rd Apt 1221 Chicago, IL 60657-6145

has recovered. She gets fresh air in their yard but finds creative juices are not flowing much. Janice “Jan” Lauber Hummel keeps in touch by phone with Jane Ordovensky Avil and Jane Schneider Krempp . Jane Krempp’s extended family takes good care of her. Jane Avil is busy as a grandmother and loves it. Jim and Jan are going to be vaccinated soon. Virginia Senicka Wirtz’ son also lives in Savage, Minnesota but her other children live in Stillwater. I am well but lost a niece to the virus. My sister, Betty, is well and her daughter, Carol, lives with her. This certainly has been a very different year and so many of our lifestyles have been altered. Our hope and prayer is that we can resume some normalcy in 2021. Thirteen classmates attended the June 2019 reunion. Since Onyx was on sabbatical, we were unable to share our class news. Mary “Maggie” Burns Gage lives on the same property in the middle of the woods with her son and family. During spring and summer, Maggie spent numerous hours climbing up and down the hills in the woods pulling invasive plants and identifying woodland plants and flowers. It was good therapy following her second knee replacement in mid-January 2020. Our thoughts and prayers are with Rosemary Burke Ciaudelli on the sudden death of her son David on Aug. 30, 2020. Daughter Maria Ciaudelli Cholak ’90 , teaches in the Cincinnati, Ohio, schools. Her daughter Megan is a pre-med student at Chicago’s Loyola University. Daughter Catherine is in a nurse practitioner program at the University of Cincinnati and son Joshua is in high school. Kathleen “Kitty” Farrell Zink is thrilled 2020 is behind us. She has generally stayed home but spent three weeks at their Michigan cottage. She noted that winterizing the cottage in the fall was more work than leisure without George. The main event was the wedding of grandson Isaac who married Claire in Fort Wayne, Indiana, in August, originally scheduled for April. Son Jim organized a Zoom meeting every Saturday calling it the Zink Happy Hour. Marilyn Bosler Henley was diagnosed with vascular dementia. During the COVID pandemic, her condition deteriorated and now resides in a memory care unit in West St. Paul, Minnesota. Her husband and son are able to visit frequently and agree that she is receiving good care. Elizabeth “Liz” Merry O’Daniel and Roger are moving into a new townhouse in Bloomington, Minnesota, after 50 years in their house. Daughter Kari is a frontline nurse and hero. Children Lee, Marie, Dillon and Erin are busy with work and distance learning. Daughter Merry Beth, keeping busy at her business and loves being a grandmother. Steve and Toni Marie are building ’59 Agnes Piszczek 6410 N Leona Ave Chicago, IL 66046 773-763-4775 (home) agnespiszczek@icloud.com

a new house on their property and enjoy their grandchildren. Carolyn Stower Edelmann had a trying year with sister Marilyn and family members contracting COVID-19. All had serious cases but survived. Carolyn enjoys hiking, kayaking, writing poetry and works to preserve wetlands. She is still working as community and media relations director for D&R Greeenway Land Trust and recently reached a milestone; 21,000 acres in highly populated New Jersey are saved in perpetuity. Jeanne Cowden Meyer and Paul spent a year of non-events. Trips were canceled as well as other activities but looking forward to resuming travel in 2021. Margaret Mulhollan Quinn usually winters in Orlando with daughter Karen Quinn Walsh ’82 , but has chosen not to travel this year. She will miss spending time with her two great-grandsons but may go in the fall. Her daughter Maureen lives in St. Johns, Indiana and daughter Mary resides in Clarendon Hills, Illinois. Laura “Lolly” Trauscht Holland had a busy year caring for husband Dave. In November, he was placed in a memory care unit. He has adjusted well and appears very happy. The holidays were spent with daughter Jennifer and son Christopher and his family. In January, Lolly fell on ice and broke her pelvis but did not need surgery. Our thoughts and prayers extend to Lolly on the death of her sister Mary Ann in September. Mary Ellen Gase was unable to receive visitors this year. Usually Elizabeth “Liz” Merry O’Daniel visits each spring, but plans changed due to the virus. They do communicate via telephone and Mary Ellen enjoys hearing from former students. Patricia “Pat” Needham Burns and John stayed close to home in a bubble of two following all rules and regulations. In June, workers could safely complete some house projects while they completed projects such as cleaning closets, desk drawers, etc. Their families remained in their individual homes for Thanksgiving but enjoyed a Zoom meeting arranged by son Ian. It was wonderful visiting with family. Jacqueline “Jackie” Chott Carey and Tim became great grandparents for a second time in November 2020 but have not had an in person visit. Their son and family moved to Portland from Hong Kong and enjoy frequent visits. A granddaughter is a freshman at the University of Portland and her sister is enrolled in an accelerated nursing program at St. Louis on track to get her BSN in one year. Jackie and Tim have two grandchildren studying for their Ph.D.’s. Joan Mellican Dickson witnessed her eldest granddaughter’s wedding May 1 on Zoom arranged by the pastor to enable family and friends to witness the ceremony. Only her parents, Kevin and Sheila, and sister Morgan attended. The couple, Elisabeth and Paul, hope to renew their vows May 1, 2021, followed by a reception. The couple visited her grandparents. The trip offered Paul, from Scotland, an opportunity to tour the U.S. The Dickson’s three college grandchildren did well with classes. Joan loves having everyone so close.

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Bruce and Rosemary Fratto Malec celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary at their daughter’s home in Wisconsin after canceling plans for a party in Hilton Head, South Carolina. Daughter Michelle’s oldest son Ryan married Meg Harvey at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Peter and Paul in Philadelphia on October 3, 2020. The party was held in an open tent. Mary Burtch Fetters has remained well and healthy during this pandemic year. Camille Filar Kopielski fell in her kitchen on Election Day and suffered a broken hip. She has fully recovered after spending several days in the hospital and a month in rehab. Gaye Salerno Kenny and Phil enjoyed their time staying at home at their retirement apartment that afforded the opportunity to reconnect with old friends via email and Zoom. They spent time cleaning out files and other projects while both remaining to stay well. Grace “Ann” Doran McLaughlin and Bob are well and staying close to home but keeping busy helping neighbors. Son Peter is living with them and grateful for the assistance he provides. Last summer the family camped at Lake George, enjoying the outdoors and visiting with family members. During the unusual 2020, they truly thank God each day for one another. Marilyn Rogge DiNardo reported that due to COVID, lots of plans were canceled including a family trip to Hawaii at Christmas. She spent time at home with projects, working puzzles and just organizing everything! Due to COVID-19, Mickey and Rosemary “Dee” Cirando Coyne had to change their plans to celebrate their 60th anniversary in Syracuse, New York, but their pastor in Naples arranged for a Mass and renewal of vows shown on YouTube for family and friends. Two of the three surviving members of the wedding party live in Naples so were able to attend the liturgy. Mickey and Dee pray daily for family and friends that they may be spared from COVID-19. Anita Wehmer Philpott passed away Aug. 14, 2020. She was preceded in death by her husband of 36 years, Richard. Our thoughts and prayers are extended to her family and friends. I, Agnes Piszczek , continue to serve on the National Alumni Board for Loyola University Chicago and continue as an active member on Maryville Academy’s Board of Directors. I plan to spend several months in Florida. Please continue to support the Woods Fund. C L A S S N O T E S ’60 Barbara Beach Hogan 4119 Fieldbrook Pass Fort Wayne, IN 46815-5580 MBHogan1963@gmail.com There is not a lot of news to report. With the restrictions due to the Pandemic, most of us are staying close to home. Mary Kay Schreier, DC has been living in Chicago with her community of Daughters of Charity while acting as POA for health and finances for her brother, who is single. He suffered a massive stroke,

is paralyzed and needs 24-7 caregivers. Sister also ministers part time as pastoral associate at the African American Mission Church of St. Peter Claver in Robbins, Il. This ministry brings much joy as well as challenges during this pandemic. Lois Leinenbach Mootz , Vivian Larkowski Kozak and Patricia “Pat” Vassallo Freebern all live near one another in Southwest Florida. They used to play golf together, but now it’s lunch and dinner. With Covid restrictions, they dine outside. How lucky they are to be in Florida! Recently Pat arranged for dinner with their husbands to celebrate birthdays for Lois and Vivian. Lois and Pete are faithfully following CDC guidelines and have received their first vaccines with the second one scheduled. Jeanne Smith Rielly still lives in Maine and runs the local food pantry. With Covid restrictions, distributions are curbside with some boxes prepared elsewhere. Jeanne’s husband, Edward, is finishing a book on Native American women in leadership roles. This includes the new Secretary of the Interior for President Biden. The grandchildren have adjusted well to virtual and hybrid learning. Birthday celebrations are being held in backyards with heaters and lights. Grandson, Morgan is now in the state legislature. He has a book coming out in August on new immigrants to Maine. Andrea “Andy” Unruh Linde reports that she and Harry staying home except for rare doctors’ and quick trips to the grocery store. They have just received their first Covid vaccination. Andy still holds out hope for Reunion. Ann Browne Martin is happy that she and her husband traveled when they did. Between transportation difficulties and health concerns, travel may be a luxury of the past. Ann hears from Mary Ann Schraffenberg Burger and Elizabeth Vessels Ayers regularly, but has not seen either of them recently. Nancy Kotowicz Williams and her husband arrived back in upstate New York from a trip to New Zealand and Australia days before New York locked down. Certainly, they didn’t have a clue what the following year would bring. They have received their first dose of Pfizer vaccine, but getting an appointment was a real challenge. Nancy misses her usual global travel. Now however there is no excuse not to work on the book she has been meaning to write. Nancy is amazed (as we all are) that we graduated sixty one years ago…..and happy we’re mostly all vertical! Although the past year has presented many challenges, I am blessed! Facetime and Zoom have allowed visits with the grandchildren, but I look forward to being with them in person. Now that I have been fully vaccinated, I am hoping that day will soon be here. ’63 Anne Lenhard Benington 2564 Birchview Dr Kewadin, MI 49648-9205 albenington@aol.com Greetings and Happy New Year dear class of 1963. I wish you and your families a healthy,

COVID-free 2021. Sadly, we have lost two classmates this past year, Nancy Henneberger Duncan and Sue Moegling Meister . I know you join me in offering prayers for them and their families. Theresa Rosner White is well and able to keep active. This was her first summer living in Florida without a trip North. She managed as everybody else did, in an independent living facility with assisted living and rehab nearby. She enjoys doing puzzles in her local paper and playing the piano. Patricia “Patsy” Lewis Wisler, MD says she has received the first of two Pfizer vaccine injections because she has direct contact with elderly patients. Joan Costanza Meister is happy no family member had the virus. Fortunately, her sons and daughter live close by, her grandchildren though scattered, were in town for Christmas and shared “love bumps” as well as gifts. She and Dick take walks for exercise and Joan has been reading many books. Mary Eppig Kelling spent January and February, with face shields and masks, in Florida. Sadly, she had to miss their granddaughter’s wedding, but Mary is delighted the bride and her husband will be moving to the Chicago area. She will be an advanced nurse in Intensive Care at Lurie Children’s Hospital. Margot Rudge Sullivan happily says her family has not been sick. She and Brian have been decluttering, trying new things like making grape jelly from grapes growing in their yard. She adds, “It is really good!” They also take walks along the beach, watch the sunsets and attend morning Mass outside. Janet Scoggin Kerner and her husband are well. They miss their four children and 10 grandchildren but are staying away for now. She retired after 40 years as choir director for her Catholic church but is still a cantor. Bill still works at his law practice from home. Rosemary Lawler Wong and Aileen McGrath Jenner usually spend Christmas together, but not this year. Rosemary and her husband spent a first Christmas alone without their four children and seven grandchildren. Her oldest teaches high school math, the youngest teaches nursery school. In the summer family visited, masked outside on her deck. Jane “Janie” O’Rourke Anderson wintered in Florida but got to Connecticut for Christmas and saw their four grandchildren. Granddaughter Gretchen was the No. 1 recruit for swimming in the country and will be going to the Olympic trials in June in Omaha. Janie said she and her husband granddaughter recovered from the virus. A big downside, no family gatherings for the holidays! Two joys, a new great grandson and a great granddaughter! Sue’s son-in-law, Joel, remarried this summer; his wife Mary has been gone nine years and the family is happy for him. Mary Sue “Suzie” Bachman Renn wishes everyone a Happy New Year and says her family played golf during the pandemic. Sue Lindeman Card‘s writes one

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prayers. Joan Kroll Sadlowski had a stroke and is slowly improving according to her husband, Ron. Mary Ellen Schneider Backer retired after 38 years in the brokerage business. Five of her eight grandchildren are in college. Once COVID is controlled, she hopes to go to Cancun. She volunteers at a local museum, is on its board and the board of Crisis Connection, an association helping abused women. Theresa “Tracy” Alig Dowling says that with many activities on hold, including travel, she hopes to move them to the front burner. She misses her husband but fortunately has her daughter, son and grandson nearby. Tracy exclaims what most of us feel! “I’ll be 80 this year! How did that happen?” Judith “Judy” Scoggin McManmon escaped the virus and felt having time to read was wonderful. Another saving grace was water aerobics, five days a week. A bright spot was her daughter’s second marriage in September, and the family traveled safely to celebrate. Her husband had two surgeries during isolation but is fine. Margaret McElroy has been busy as a member of the Works of Mercy Committee initiated by her parish three months into COVID-19. Its purpose is to serve elderly and homebound parishioners through such actions as praying, sending cards and notes, conversing via phone, and visiting when possible. Barbara “Barb” Clemento Savino had several classmates in the summer gather at her patio for coffee. Everyone brought her own drink. Anne “Dee” O’Donnell brought muffins. She added it was great to be outside and see Mary Eppig Kelling , Patricia “Pat” Clancy , and Elise Schirmer George . Barb only sees her family for brief visits wearing masks. Anne “Dee” O’Donnell survived COVID in a few small bubbles at home and escaped to the lake in Michigan during the summer. While decluttering, she ran across all the Auroras from our time at The Woods and reread them. She notes, “I’m reminded that we have such talented classmates!” Suzanne “Suzie” Weiers McKay during COVID decided to write her memoir and tell interesting things about growing up. She finished it, had it bound, and gave it to her four grandsons at Christmastime. They asked questions about things she talked about in the memoir. She added, “What a feeling of accomplishment.” Judith “Judy” Briley Richelsen had three graduations in her family and the first grandchild, of twelve, was married. The family had been hoping for a “real” wedding and not a virtual one. Katharine “Katy” Gibson was out of touch for a while but has kept in contact with Elaine Reis . Katy and Walt recently moved into a continuing-care community. She spends time on Zoom for book clubs and classes and is grateful her son and family live in the next town, so they can still visit outdoors. Rosemary Krider Schmid has avoided the virus thanks to her son, a NASA flight surgeon who “haunts” her about following safe practices. She loves to travel so is awaiting the green light. She also would like to start a class Facebook page and is hoping for feedback.

Mary Campbell’s Ignatian Volunteer Corps, book club, friends from work, and choir all met via Zoom. During the virus, she had more time for quiet and reflection, and she made a dent in cleaning her attic. She did some YouTube exercise classes and remains thankful for family, friends, and being retired! Linda Hahus in September had a “Zoom Reunion” with 23 of her “Band,” marking the 60th anniversary of their entrance into the Sisters of Providence, after Linda’s freshman year at The Woods. Usually they meet every five years but Zoom brought others in who have not been in contact for years. Janice “Jan” Gapen Dean spoke with two classmates recently on a Zoom call, Patricia “Pat” Hughes Hartlage, MD , and Julie Johnson Gaughan . Julie is in assisted living after breaking her leg; Pat lives in Georgia and is active and “vibrant.” She adds that Nancy Van Uum Langworthy was hospitalized with COVID but is now home. Kathleen “Boo” Finneran Valle has begun organizing family ancestry information given by her mother years ago. Her sons also asked her to write her life’s memoir and she has begun to outline. She has lost a few friends to COVID, but thankfully, her family has been spared. Finally, George and I spent Thanksgiving alone, at first, but I was recuperating from knee replacement, making the decision easier. We spent Christmas in Chicago, celebrating by social distancing, with our daughter, son and their families. Our five college-age grandchildren studied virtually this year, a challenge that they met quite well. May our notes next time be filled with great health news, lots of new activities, and joyous reunions! It is with sadness that I share the news of the deaths of our classmates: Leonora “Lorrie” Groff Wrona (June 2019); Susan Ross Dahlstrom (June 2020); Carroll Moegling Swope (July 2020); and Joan “Joni” Slobig, SP (August 2020). Susan “Suzz” Maxheim Carter was able to visit her sister Elizabeth “Leas” Maxheim Kamieniecki ’69 in Scottsdale before COVID got too bad. Suzz also managed to get back surgery and has kept busy caring for husband Peter. With any free time, she enjoys Paint by Numbers. Suzz adds, “using a magnifying glass.” Your Classmates, Suzz, offer sympathy on the death of your son, John Miles Carter (June 2019). Frances “Fran” Froehlich is still involved with Poor People United in Boston so as we might expect she shares her concern for the growing numbers of hungry and homeless people. She spends most of the time “hunkered down” and hoping for a better 2021. ’64 Anne Longtine 6613 Quail Ridge Lane Fort Wayne IN 46804-2875 (260) 432-3470 home (260) 450-1228 cell annelongtine2012@gmail.com

survived 2020 with no virus. She promises to get the vaccine as soon as it is available and looks forward to a healthy 2021. Lydia Treadwell Blecksmith writes that she and her husband are fine but “bored out of our minds” as the virus continues. They are sticking to the stay-at-home order and their girls and families are following the same routine. She adds that her sister Louise Treadwell Conlon and her husband are well also. Michelene “Mickey” Barraco McCormick is well and fortunately, no one in her family has contracted the virus. She hopes to get the vaccine as soon as possible and adds that social distancing has been hard on her grandchildren who were not used to inactivity. Holidays were especially hard. Susan “Sue” Wise , while driving to Dallas for a production of “Come from Away,” learned of its cancellation; then “Harvey,” the play she had been rehearsing, was suspended, as was another play, in which she had a bit part. Sue’s new routine, reading all night and sleeping all morning. Patricia Clancy was outdoors spring and summer working in her vegetable garden and areas where she planted Illinois natives under the trees. In the winter she got rid of outdated items, old papers and updated her computer. Her son lives with her and helped with shopping during COVID. Mary Jo Carney Johnson’s son Jim drove from Denver for birthday celebrations and she is looking forward to a visit with her first granddaughter. She walks every day, Zooms with friends and book clubs, works on grants for St. Clare Centre in Meru, Kenya where she visited and taught. Kathleen “Kathy” Ennis Pantinkin fell and broke her femur and had emergency surgery. With physical therapy, she now walks normally. Then in October, she was diagnosed with colon cancer and had surgery. Fortunately, she fully recovered, needing no chemo. Kathy is grateful for so much support, especially her best friend Nano Cloghessy Dubish who was there “every step of the way.” Nano Cloghessy Dubish writes that she misses tutoring the little children and the theatre. She is still doing lots of outdoor activities, hiking, walking in the parks, and pickleball at the YMCA. A few of their family had the virus but so far, nothing serious. Elise Shirmer George’s daughter Emily was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer and is undergoing chemo. Elise also had some health problems and was admitted to the hospital with a kidney working only at 20%. A stent was inserted. She also needed carpel tunnel surgery. She asks for prayers. Margaret “Peggy” Buber Mello n wrote a very inspiring letter during COVID that I shared with our class members in a January email. One part is memorable still: “Listening has become our new apostolate. After reading our pope’s new book, I discovered that listening to others can actually be an apostolate! After being married 56 years, we have to admit that it is often harder to listen to each other than it is to a stranger. Yet, there we were together 24 hours a day during COVID! ” Peggy writes that another classmate is in need of our

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