Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.On November 16th, Kellenberg was visited by alumna Sister Ann Thomas of the class of 2009. She is a member of the Dominican sisters stationed in Nashville. Sister Ann came back to meet with students and visit with many of her old teachers.
She shared her vocation story with many of the Kellenberg students. When she arrived she attended Midday Prayer and then lunch with members of the Adele Club, Kellenberg’s vocation club for young women. She also spoke with several of the Junior Morality classes.
She shared with them her own discernment journey and talked about her life as a religious sister. She noted that many do not get to see religious sisters living out their vocation as much as they may see the vocations of married life and the priesthood. She answered questions from students about what they do in their daily life and what their prayer life is like. She mentioned how she loves playing games, particularly softball with her fellow sisters.
These Dominican sisters teach in Nashville and spend their days in prayer, teaching and service. Sister Ann believed the sisters live the fullness of a Christian life in joy. She said that everything they do is in service to God and so even the menial tasks can be done with joy. It was apparent during the presentation that the Dominican sisters are full of joy and love. Sister Ann urged the students to open themselves to God’s call and told them that service to God is the way to happiness and fullness.
After school, she met with the students of Aquinas League to answer their questions and share her witness before leaving.Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
A student who attended her presentation, junior Sloane Sackett commented that, “The presentation was wonderful. Sister Ann really showed us how wonderful life as a religious sister can be. I had never realized how great religious life could be. It really opened me up to religious life.”
When asked about her visit, Sister Ann said that, “It was so great being back at Kellenberg. The students have been so welcoming and had incredible questions. I am so grateful for the faith formation I received at Kellenberg.”
Sister Ann Thomas’ visit was a wonderful witness of how God is calling each Kellenberg student to holiness.
Jessica Sherman ’98 serves as a Biological Science Technician (Soils) at US Department of Agriculture Agricultural Research Service. In this role, she is responsible for the day-to-day management of numerous field and plot scale research projects investigating soil and water quality, nutrient cycling, greenhouse gas emissions, and manure management in dairy-forage agriculture. Her work involves field sampling and data collection, lab analysis, data analysis, and the write-up of findings for peer-reviewed publication. Prior to joining the USDA ARS, Jessica was a Faculty Associate at UW Stevens Point, teaching introductory and field-based courses and preparing teaching labs for the Soils and Waste Resources department. She graduated from the University of Maine with a Master of Science degree in 2005 and from Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia, PA, with a Bachelor of Science degree in 2002. Jessica resides in Stevens Point, WI, with her husband, Jeff, and dog, Loki.
In high school I was interested in environmental science thinking it was focused on the preservation and conservation of natural resources; it wasn’t until a few years into college that I realized just how broad a field environmental science is. It is an area of study where biology, chemistry, and physics meet philosophy, history, and politics which makes it a complex field but is largely why I find it so interesting. I had a professor as an undergraduate who encouraged me to do research in her geochemistry lab, and then to go to graduate school. I think she heightened my appreciation for doing scientific research and gave me a better sense of the environmental inequalities that exist in America.
I didn’t even realize that soil science was a career choice until I was looking at graduate programs and found a research assistantship studying the effects of acid deposition on forested watersheds with a focus on soil chemistry. I never thought as a graduate student that I’d end up working on a research farm for the USDA, but after working in academia in a natural resources degree program for a few years I stumbled on my current position listing. I felt that the soil/hydrology/environmental impact focus of this program really fit my skill set despite my lack of practical agricultural experience. There was a learning curve going from natural resources to agronomy, and I definitely felt like a top-seeded amateur at first, but I enjoy the mix of field work, lab work, statistics, and writing, as well as the people I work with. I feel like I’m doing some really practical and applicable research that challenges me mentally and physically.
How do you think your time at Kellenberg Memorial helped to prepare you for your success in your academic and professional pursuits in environmental science?
I think my work ethic came from my time at Kellenberg. Not everyone in my position does the variety of things that I am able to do and part of that is being a self-starter and a goal-oriented person who works hard, puts in the hours, is organized, and gets things done; these ideals were ingrained in me in high school. Having a broad educational experience where religion, art, history, and English are as important as science and math not only gave me an appreciation for the complexity of environmental issues, but also helped nurture my creative side. I do a lot of creative problem solving and the building and maintenance of a vast array of equipment that requires outside-the-box critical thinking. I also appreciate the diversity of the student body. I think being able to work with and communicate with people of different backgrounds and experiences makes me a better colleague and researcher. Do you have any advice for current students or young alumni who are interested in pursuing a career in the sciences?
First off, you need to appreciate the fact that there are a broad range of career options that are based in the sciences. A lot of people think of science as lab-based work but there are many positions outside the lab and there really is something for almost everyone. Environmental consulting, extension, regulation, and a lot of non-profit work is more about policy and working with people than doing chemical analysis. No matter what your interest, level of education, or background there are positions out there for you. You don’t have to have straight As in physics and calculus, or take all science courses, or have an M.S. or Ph.D.
If you can, do undergraduate research, take advantage of internships, volunteer for local organizations, and don’t be afraid to apply for and try different jobs. You might take a position you thought you’d love but isn’t fulfilling, and then you get a better idea of what you want to do. Or maybe something you thought was marginally interesting turns out to be your dream job.
Lastly, I’d say don’t sell yourself short, so what if you didn’t ace organic chemistry. If you are a hard worker and are willing to learn, there are a lot of people who will take a chance on you – especially if you have done internships, have a variety of work experience, took those tough undergraduate courses or if you have computer or other hands-on skills that could be applicable. There are also a lot of organizations structured so you can work your way up if you are missing some experience at first, so apply for that job and see what happens! I feel like there is talent out there but we still have trouble filling positions.
Do you have any favorite teachers, coaches, or club moderators from your time at Kellenberg Memorial?
I had too many great teachers to list but for moderators I enjoyed my time in Science Club and Science Olympiad with Mrs. Klimkowski and Bro. Nigel. I also appreciated Mr. Blanton holding Jazz Choir rehearsals late so we could do other activities between the end of class and practice. I think all the moderators and coaches put in a lot of extra time and effort that I probably appreciate more now than I did at the time.
The Kellenberg Alumni Family Facebook Twitter Instagram Alumni Spotlight: Jessica Sherman ’98 Jessica Sherman ’98 serves as a Biological Science Technician (Soils) at US Department of
The Kellenberg Alumni Family Follow @kmhsalumni Eddie Jordan ’13 is Director of Building and Grounds at St. Martin de Porres Marianist School in Uniondale, NY.
The Kellenberg Alumni Family Follow @kmhsalumni Linda Moroney ’91 is an Emmy award-winning documentary filmmaker, programmer, and educator. Currently, she’s producing and directing a short
Paul Campbell ’90 serves as a licensed professional clinical counselor serving the states of California and Arizona. Paul’s daily role entails virtual counseling services with an international company, as well as his own private practice in California and Arizona. Paul’s clients entail adults who predominantly struggle with anxiety, depression, bipolar, PTSD, schizophrenia, personality disorders, as well as couples and marital counseling. His work consists of daily psychiatric evaluations and assessments, therapeutic interventions, individual and marital/couples counseling, crisis counseling, and psycho-education with the objective of helping clients discover and eliminate the roots of their presented clinical issues. Paul is the author of five books and is currently working on a new book tentatively titled The Unbreakable Love. His university studies include Gannon University (B.A.), University of South Florida (M.A.), Logos Christian College/Graduate School (D.Min.), and a few semesters at Emory Candler School of Theology (M.Div. program). Paul taught Christian Counseling, Hermeneutics, and Homiletics as an adjunct professor when he lived in Florida at two seminary schools. Paul is currently single and spends a lot of time with his three amazing daughters who reside in Southern California and maintains a busy speaking schedule as a guest evangelist, both internationally and domestically.
What inspired you to pursue a career in mental health and ministry? Over the last 24 years, I have been working as a licensed mental health therapist, as well as an ordained minister both within different capacities. In regards to being a therapist, I enjoy facilitating healing for others and helping individuals/families pursue their designated goals. Most of these individuals have experienced early childhood trauma, crisis, or developed mental illness during their journey on earth. Helping others obtain a sense of peace, tranquility, balance, and, ultimately, emotional health, has always been a preeminent purpose for me. As a therapist, I believe that everyone is entitled to live the best version of themselves and to successfully complete their journey and mission on earth. A few of my mental health jobs include community mental health, government contractor, crisis stabilization units, and private practice. For me, the best part of providing mental health services is to witness the transformation of lives. I was called to preach the gospel in my early twenties. I served as a youth pastor, associate pastor, senior pastor, seminary adjunct professor, and now an evangelist. I’ve been blessed with opportunities to preach throughout several countries in Europe and the Caribbean Islands, as well as the United States. There is nothing greater than to witness someone as they commit their life to Jesus Christ, grow in His love, and demonstrate and introduce His love to others. Honestly, this is the most pleasurable and fulfilling experience among anything else that I do. Teaching others to obtain and practice a relationship with Jesus Christ is the most beautiful experience.
How do you think your time at Kellenberg Memorial helped to prepare you for your success in your academic and professional pursuits? My education/experience at Kellenberg was amazing. It was a significant foundation for enhancing essential skills and knowledge needed to make a difference in the world, as well as creating the beginning of a moral system that I have been able to implement in my daily life. The priests, brothers, teachers, coaches, and students at Kellenberg contributed to who I am today. My friends from Kellenberg are the closest and most trustworthy friends that I have in my life today. They are amazing people with amazing hearts of God. Kellenberg allowed me to develop from a young boy until an adult while providing both elite education, rich religious experiences, and extracurricular activities. My participation in basketball developed in me great skills that I have been able to carry into other aspects of my life.
Do you have any advice for current students or young alumni who are interested in pursuing a career in mental health counseling? I will encourage anyone to enter into the mental health profession/ministry. These careers offer an opportunity to see lives transformed, as well as become part of one’s transition. Ultimately, choosing what you love to do can correlate with one selecting their career. There is nothing greater than doing what you enjoy with regard to employment endeavors. I believe that anyone who enters this field will have an opportunity to touch many lives and it can be extremely rewarding and fulfilling.
Do you have any favorite teachers, coaches, or club moderators from your time at Kellenberg Memorial? Yes, I would have to say most definitely. Mr. Buckley, Ms. Purcel, and my basketball coaches impacted me greatly throughout the years at Kellenberg. I can authentically state that the staff at Kellenberg all played a positive role in who I am today and I’m forever grateful for my experiences, even during the moments when I was oppositional Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view. Sometimes you really don’t know what you need until you advance in age and experience.
Sabrina Franza ’14 is the newest reporter for CBS Chicago. Prior to moving to the Windy City, she worked as a General Assignment, Political, and Investigative reporter with News 12 Networks, spending three years covering the five boroughs of New York City. Sabrina told stories through the worst part of the pandemic, in the epicenter of the epicenter. She reported on months of unrest and protests in the wake of George Floyd’s death, uncovered millions of missing federal dollars from the federal Restaurant Revitalization Program, and covered the 2021 New York City mayoral election from start to finish. Her investigations have uncovered disorganization within the city’s Civilian Complaint Review Board (CCRB), which oversees NYPD complaints, and has exposed mismanagement in city government resulting in unnecessary COVID-related fines to small businesses. That work prompted new legislation to help those businesses at the city level. Sabrina is a proud graduate of NYU, majoring in both politics and journalism. She is thrilled and honored to continue her work, putting people first, in Chicago!
What inspired you to pursue a career in journalism? I find value in taking complicated issues and turning them into something digestible and interesting. This means uplifting people’s stories for those who might never have the same experience, breaking down new legislation or rules to help people make honest decisions, and taking viewers to a place they might never see otherwise. Being a journalist means I get to witness history in its first draft, which is a perk that never gets old. No day is boring!
How do you think your time at Kellenberg Memorial helped to prepare you for your success in your academic and professional pursuits? I can definitely say the time management skills I learned at Kellenberg helped me to grow as a reporter. You can’t miss a deadline! Ever!
Do you have any advice for current students or young alumni who are interested in pursuing a career in journalism? Be a consumer of journalism — all kinds. Read opinions of those you agree with, but more importantly, listen to the people you might not agree with. Be a listener first. This job is NOT about being on TV. It’s about being there for a mother who just lost her son in a tragedy, it’s about informing your community about resources they might need, and above all, it’s about holding the people in power accountable. It’s impossible to hold others accountable if you don’t hold yourself to the same honest standard. Also – never be afraid to ask for what you want!
Do you have any favorite teachers, coaches, or club moderators from your time at Kellenberg Memorial? I wouldn’t be half the writer I am today without my English teachers. Mrs. von Schoenermarck pushed me to get back into reading, my favorite way to unwind from a day in the field! Mr. Huggard’s vocabulary drills stay with me, even now, years later. Former teachers Mr. Blanton and Mrs. Perrone pushed me to be my authentic Alto/Gold Narration self.
Joseph Divino ’88 is co-owner of Insieme Wines and Tasting Room in Oceanside, NY. He grew up in Rosedale, NY, and lives with his beautiful wife and three amazing children in Nassau County. Joe is proud to have been a member of the first graduating class of Kellenberg Memorial High School in 1988. Joe has been an entrepreneur in multiple industries. He says, “I always dreamed big and aimed for the moon. I never let anyone tell me that I couldn’t do something. My pride and joy will always be my family and close friends. I wholeheartedly believe in God and I live my life based on doing the right thing and helping others.”
Joe invites Firebirds to check out Insieme and offers a 10% discount to the Firebird Family! To register to receive the discount, please click here.
What inspired you to become an entrepreneur/winemaker?
I have been making wine with my very close friend and business partner since 2004. It started as a hobby, but over the years we kept increasing production until one day we decided to introduce our product to the market. With the love and passion of making a high-quality wine, along with my last name being Divino (meaning “of wine”), I felt God was on my side with this venture.
How do you think your time at Kellenberg Memorial helped to prepare you for your success in your professional pursuits?
Kellenberg is/was an amazing school. I am proud to have been a member of the first graduating class and have great memories of my time there. I firmly believe that Kellenberg played an intricate role in building my faith in God, even if I didn’t realize it back then. I appreciate Kellenberg more and more with each passing year. Kellenberg put me on the right path. I learned to follow rules, structure my life, and be responsible for my choices. Kellenberg gave me my strong sense of faith. I am thankful to God for all of the good things He has provided me in my life, mainly from my wife and children. I think Kellenberg played a big role in helping me become the man that I am today.
Do you have any advice for current students or young alumni who are interested in becoming entrepreneurs?
I have been an entrepreneur for many years in multiple industries. In fact, I opened my first business when I was a senior at Kellenberg. Some ventures were wonderful and others not as much. To succeed in anything you must work hard, be determined, and have a passion for what you do. If you have these things, you are off to a good start but you also need to create a business plan, even if it is very basic. You will fail sometimes and you will make mistakes – all business owners do. You need to own up to your mistakes and learn from them, but never give up on your dream. You have to know what you want; you need to forecast into the future to see what you want your life to look like when you are older. Where do you see yourself when you are 25, 35, or even 50 years old?
In the winery we have a saying… If you want to make great wine you better be great at mopping the floor. What this means is that when you are an entrepreneur, it’s not all glitz and glamour. You have to get your hands dirty a lot of the time. You will put in more hours than you thought possible. As a business owner, you are going to wear many hats. Hire the right people and be good to them. If you do, they will work hard for you. Treat your customers great because if you don’t, they will spend their hard-earned money somewhere else.
Do you have any favorite teachers, coaches, or club moderators from your time at Kellenberg Memorial? Mrs. Albano was my Italian teacher and it was a class that was of great interest to me. I feel that the teachers in Kellenberg had our best interests at heart. As a student, I didn’t give much thought to the time and effort that the teachers put into their jobs. As I often reflect back to my Kellenberg days, I have grown to appreciate how wonderful the school really was.
Kellenberg Memorial’s sixth annual Day of Giving took place on Wednesday, February 16.
Mr. Cioffi described the Day of Giving as: “the biggest fundraising effort to support the Shepherd’s Fund, which is the school’s fund that supports all aspects of the education of the heart and mind provided at Kellenberg Memorial.”
People were able to donate throughout both that day and the next by using the links provided on the school’s website and its social media accounts. All students and faculty could wear Kellenberg merch in place of blazers and senior sweaters in order to show their school spirit.
During the day there was a student photo booth, student raffles, and social media highlights of all of the day’s events.
Many students took advantage of the photo booth by taking funny pictures with their friends and even the firebird mascot during their lunch periods.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
The numerous student raffles took place all day in the lobby. Some of the prizes students could win were AirPods, AirTags, a JBL speaker, tickets to an islander game, and a $30 gift card of the winner’s choosing.
Also throughout the day, students wrote thank you cards for the school’s supporters and worked on a digital activity book that included coloring pages, word searches, and mazes.
At 7 PM, there was a special live show hosted by sophomores Elena Brutus and Gabriel Blanco. Brother Kenneth, along with many other special guests and alumni, also made an appearance in the show.
By February 17, there had been 964 donors and $157,768 dollars raised. This was an amazing day where all of the Kellenberg family came together for a great cause!
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.Nadine Saint-Louis is a licensed architect registered in the states of New York and Florida. Her passion for architecture began at a very young age when she first visited Manhattan and was completely mesmerized. As she explored the city, her gaze never strayed from the Manhattan skyline, and from that moment on, she never looked back… architecture captured her.
Nadine holds a Master of Architecture Degree from Florida International University and a Bachelor of Architecture degree from New York Institute of Technology. She has had over fourteen years of experience designing residential homes throughout Long Island for the award-winning office of Paul Russo Architect, PC, and is now exploring commercial architecture under the leadership and guidance of the award-winning office of MCHarry Associates. In addition to working in a firm, Nadine is an adjunct professor at Florida International University teaching both Design1 and Design2 architectural courses.
Nadine’s professional memberships include the American Institute of Architects and the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards. She is the current President of the National Organization of Minority Architects of South Florida and Co-Chair of the AIA Miami Diversity and Inclusion Committee for the 2022 calendar year.
What inspired you to pursue a career in architecture? How did your love of architecture develop into a commitment to work to close the racial disparity gap within the field?
Architecture has always been a passion of mine even before I knew what an architect was. I have always been fascinated with the built environment, structural elements, and being creative. Architecture comprises all these things in one. Although I love this profession, the field does have its shortcomings. While in school I didn’t have the knowledge of an architect that looked like me or someone I could relate to. The minority and female presence was almost non-existent in the world of architecture that surrounded me. I knew what that felt like as a student and the impression it made on me. Because of that, I decided I wanted to be a part of the change by becoming a professor and getting involved in organizations that would connect me to the youth and young architects. Future architects can see me, a minority female architect, and potentially have someone they could relate to. I am a firm believer that if you see it, you can be it, so my goal is to be seen so young minority architects know they can attain and even surpass my work and what I have achieved. See me and be BETTER than me.
How do you think your time at Kellenberg Memorial helped to prepare you for your success in your academic and professional pursuits?
I learned so much while having the privilege of attending Kellenberg. I have come to appreciate the discipline and ethics that the school instilled. I didn’t know it or appreciate it then, but it is because of the school that I can multi-task the way I do and work efficiently under pressure. I would rather take another licensing exam than another Kellenberg Trimester final. Do you have any advice for current students or young alumni who are interested in pursuing a career in architecture or DEI?
The advice I give my students today is that they must understand that to pursue architecture is to pursue a career that is about people and the people also includes yourself as the architect. Architecture is the built environment that completely focuses on the human condition and human scale. As you take care of the human environment you also must take care of yourself. Believe in yourself and what you are doing for the good of the human condition. Know that it is hard, but you can do it. Know that it is stressful, but you will get through it. Know that you may want to quit at times, but with focus and discipline, you will succeed. Understanding these things will give you the confidence to deal with the difficult times that come with this career. There are many sleepless nights, stressful deadlines, and difficult clients. But when you see your creation transformed from a line drawing to physical space that people are using and enjoying, it all becomes worth it. Similarly, DEI is also about people; therefore, architecture and DEI go hand in hand. You must design for all people with the equitable use of space. In my opinion, to be a good architect one must have DEI as the central focus of the design.
Do you have any favorite teachers, coaches, or club moderators from your time at Kellenberg Memorial?
The most memorable times I had at Kellenberg were on the Track & Field team. The coaches and my teammates made the school year the best time for me. I still run today, and running has become part of my mental wellness and health routine. Coach Brown was the best and I credit my dedication to running today to his influence. I didn’t appreciate him then as much as I do now, so thank you Coach Brown.
Kerwin Young ’88 is a concert and media composer with nine symphonies and a plethora of epic orchestral works. He is an award-winning and multi-platinum Rock & Roll Hall of Fame recording producer, multi-musician, educator, Hip-Hop Cultural Ambassador, and Performing Rights Associate with the U.S. Department of State (Next Level).
A member of Public Enemy’s infamous production team, “The Bomb Squad,” Kerwin produced several of the group’s albums and solo projects, as well as albums for hip-hop artists Ice Cube, Rakim, Mobb Deep, the 2 Live Crew, and others. Making his mark across multiple genres, Kerwin has collaborated with artists such as George Clinton, Bootsy Collins, Roy Haynes, Bobby Brown, Tevin Campbell, Reginald R. Robinson, and Eddie Moore, as well as posthumous projects for Bob Marley and Jimi Hendrix.
Since 1989, Kerwin has composed and produced original songs and scores for film and television, including Sister Act 2, New York Undercover, After College, Euphoria, and R.Z.M.
As a concert composer, Kerwin has composed nine symphonies, several orchestral fantasies, ballet suites, chamber, wind band, and jazz big-band works. His concert works have been performed by the Albany (NY) Symphony, Detroit Symphony Orchestra, Kansas City Symphony, DC Youth Orchestra, Inscape Chamber Orchestra, Music From China, ROCO, Del Sol String Quartet, Tesla Quartet, Hausmann Quartet, and other well-known ensembles.
Kerwin Young earned a B.M. and M.M. in music composition at the UMKC Conservatory of Music and Dance, where he studied with Chen Yi, Zhou Long, and Jazz Messenger legend Bobby Watson.
What inspired you to pursue a career in music?
I grew up in a very musical family. My dad, who played trombone, made me and my brothers each learn an instrument. My mom was in the chorus at church. and I had a lot of professional musicians in my family. Seeing others reach such great heights in music made me realize that I could do it too.
How do you think your time at Kellenberg Memorial helped to prepare you for your success in your academic and professional pursuits?
Kellenberg was super strict, but the teachers were also really supportive. I utilized my time in high school to delve deeper into my academic passions. There was a certain amount of academic freedom that allowed me to study subjects that weren’t built into the curriculum. I was really into ancient history and different religions, so I would use the library all the time to explore those areas. I also made every minute at school count. I had to get all my work done in order to be able to do my understudy work with Public Enemy, so I figured out how to multitask and balance it all. I was at the top of my class, but definitely had fun too.
Do you have any advice for current students or young alumni who are interested in pursuing a career in music?
The best advice I have for those interested in pursuing a career in music is to make sure that you spend time learning about the business side of the industry. When I first started out, I thought I knew everything. However, I didn’t have a publishing company and so I lost out on huge amounts of money in royalties. Aside from that, you need to make sure you stay current on all the new technologies and, most importantly, DON’T GIVE UP.
Do you have any favorite teachers, coaches, or club moderators from your time at Kellenberg Memorial?
My homeroom teacher, Mr. Roache, was great. He was also one of the baseball coaches. I loved baseball, but threw my shoulder out during tryouts and realized that part of my life was done. I also remember really liking my typing teacher, Mrs. Trykko. Overall, all the teachers were very supportive.
On Wednesday, April 27, the Health Science Club presented a suture course. The demonstration was run by Kellenberg graduate and emergency medical technician Dr. Robert Bacigalupo ‘05 of the Northwell Health Spark Challenge Team. Dr. Baciagalupo specializes in both the dental and surgical fields, and he came back to Kellenberg to open up horizons for students planning to pursue a medical career path similar to his.
Surgical sutures, more commonly known as stitches, are essential devices for any medical worker. In the situation where a deep wound must be closed, one must follow a very specific set of steps in order to prevent any further harm. This course allows for students to practice the procedure, but rather than performing on human flesh, they operate on a banana.
Dr. Baciagalupo advised students to follow “the rule of halves”, in which the first stitch is placed in the middle to create balance between each suture. Students were then instructed to create an incision and create perpendicular sutures with equal distances from each other.
The process ultimately ended up being a simple one for those participating to grasp. Dr. Bacigalupo applauded the students, who found just as much success as college level participants, saying, “Just last week we were at Hofstra doing the same course, and Kellenberg’s students have been just as well along as far as skills and their ability to pick up these ideas.”
The terrific results convey outstanding promise towards the development of the next generation of medical professionals. Participants have jumpstarted their journey to their post-collegiate life and gained valuable knowledge that will last them a lifetime.
Linda Moroney ’91 is an Emmy award-winning documentary filmmaker, programmer, and educator. Currently, she’s producing and directing a short documentary about Election Day 2020, filmed at five locations in New York state where suffragists are buried. This is the second part of the Women and the Vote NYS project. Previously, she produced and directed ELECTION DAY 2016, which was shown at the Inaugural Meet the Press Film Festival with the American Film Institute in 2017 and licensed by NBC. She also produced and directed the 2019 Emmy Award winner TURN THE PAGE, a film about a literacy program for incarcerated parents, which has been broadcast nationally across PBS. She was a producer on THE LAST DALAI LAMA?, which screened theatrically across North America during the summer of 2017 and she was the associate producer RAM DASS FIERCE GRACE, named by Newsweek as one of the five best non-fiction films of 2002, and broadcast nationally on PBS.
In addition, Linda programs the One Take Documentary Series and Film Festival at the historic Little Theatre in Rochester, NY, and teaches filmmaking at St. John Fisher College. She is the founder of the Rochester Documentary Filmmakers Group and co-founder of the Rochester Teen Film Festival. She also established the Election Day Grant for Rochester-based documentary filmmakers. She began her filmmaking career working on Academy Award winner Faith Hubley’s last six animated films and as an associate producer on Emily Hubley’s SET SET SPIKE. Find out more about Linda and her work by visitingwww.lowtotheground.com.
What inspired you to pursue a career in documentary filmmaking and production?
I’m a very curious person by nature. Documentary filmmaking is the intersection of journalism and art. So, by working in this field, I get to keep learning. It’s like getting a mini-PhD with each film.
How do you think your time at Kellenberg Memorial helped to prepare you for your success in your professional pursuits?
Quite a few ways. But the two that stand out the most are: 1) I’m truly grateful that our class was so diverse. That’s incredibly important in developing empathy and compassion and 2) AP History & English. Those classes taught me to look at the WHOLE picture and see how things are interconnected. Thanks Mr. Buckley & Mrs. Egan!
Do you have any advice for current students or young alumni who are interested in pursuing a career in filmmaking and production?
Filmmaking is a craft and the best way of learning a craft is by doing. Working on it each day. Whether that means filming, editing, or writing a page or two. Also, develop a thick skin. Rejections can hurt, but they’re usually not personal.
Do you have any favorite teachers, coaches, or club moderators from your time at Kellenberg Memorial?
I had long thought the only thing I remembered from French class was “fermez la bouche.” Sorry, Brother David! But, years after graduating, I found myself in the French-speaking part of Belgium. Every night I conjugated verbs in my dreams, and it all came back to me. Clearly, I had learned more from him than I realized! Thank you!
Margaret (McGoldrick) Merson ’97 is a Senior Programme Officer for the United Nations and is currently based at headquarters in New York. She is a graduate of the class of 1997 and received her bachelor’s degree from Fordham University and a master’s degree from the London School of Economics and Political Science.
What inspired you to pursue a career in international relations?
I interned for the United Nations as an undergraduate – it was like a world unto itself, and each day was a different experience. Continuous learning is inherent in this work. I have had the opportunity to collaborate on a broad range of issues during my career, from emergency response to peacekeeping to environmental restoration. Twenty-plus years later, I have never had a dull day at work.
How do you think your time at Kellenberg Memorial helped to prepare you for your success in your academic and professional pursuits?
The emphasis Kellenberg placed on writing skills prepared me well for the rigorous demands of college and graduate-level work. Written communication is fundamental to my work now, and I am grateful for the solid foundation I received at a young age. Kellenberg also introduced me to some of the most formative books I’ve ever read in my life. I still have on my shelf the same copies of Man’s Search for Meaning and A Separate Peace from when I was a teenager.
Do you have any advice for current students or young alumni who are interested in pursuing a career in international relations?
There are many different entry points into the field of international relations, so my advice is to study what interests you most. Also, take every opportunity to volunteer or do internships to find a field of work that interests you (and to rule out those which don’t!).
Do you have any favorite teachers, coaches, or club moderators from your time at Kellenberg Memorial?
Latin class with Fr. Philip Eichner was my favorite. We learned everything from Cicero to pickle-making to how Robert Moses planned out Long Island.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.On June 5th, the Kellenberg Senior Class of 2022 began their final day as students of Kellenberg Memorial Highschool. It was the culmination of four years of hard work and perseverance. The day began at Hofstra’s David S. Mack Exhibition Complex, for the Baccalaureate Mass. Attended by the future graduates and their families, the Mass was seen as a stepping off point for their future. The Mass was the last one the seniors would celebrate together as classmates. The Mass taking place on Pentecost Sunday, shared the similar themes. Similar to how Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to guide the Apostles in their independent ministry, the future alumni were being sent out, on their own, from the protection of Kellenberg. Father Thomas Cardone S.M, School Chaplain, and the main celebrant of the Mass, discussed how the seniors had been blessed with the gift of the Holy Spirit and were ready to be sent out into the world. After Communion, the seniors participated in a candle service, where each senior was called up, and given a candle to be lit by a member of the Kellenberg faculty. Students stood in the middle of the arena, side by side, candle in hand, remembering the years they shared together. Students then processed out of the arena, leaving the home they’ve known for so long, and ready to start their next chapter.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.Students and their families returned to Hofstra’s David S. Mack Exhibition Complex later that day for the Commencement. The ceremony began with speeches from the two valedictorians: Ryan Gerhart and Meghan Monaghan. Both are headed to great universities, with Meghan continuing her education at the University of South Carolina, and Ryan at Northeastern. Ryan discussed his experiences with his pursuit of success, and his change in his own definition of success. He found that success is more based on relationships, rather than the never ending pursuit of grades. Meghan spoke about the “what ifs” of life. The decision to attend Kellenberg, at first was not a likely one, but instead started with the smaller decision of attending a Kellenberg volleyball camp. She talked about how the smallest decisions can change the course of one’s life. She then talked about the ups and downs of the students’ time as seniors, and how there can be no time for regret but instead an optimism for the future. Then Brother Kenneth Hoagland S.M. gave his address to the graduating class. He spoke about the resilience of the class, as they experienced a far from normal time at Kellenberg. Luckily, Kellenberg teaches you how to overcome difficulty. He then graduated the class, and students began to get called up to walk across the stage and receive their diplomas from Brother Kenneth. When asked about her graduation experience, Elizabeth Callahan ‘22, who will be attending the University of Virginia in the fall, said “ It was such a wonderful day of celebration. It perfectly demonstrated how strong we are as a class, and showed the bond we will forever share.” The last group of students to be called up received various awards and honors. Logan McCann, who will be attending Stonehill College, and recipient of the Blue and Gold award for her dedication to the school yearbook said “ It was great to cheer for my friends as they were recognized for their accomplishments. It was truly special to share such an important moment with such amazing people.” In a last moment of triumph and joy, the students threw their caps into the air. While their time at Kellenberg had sadly come to an end, they were ready to start a new chapter.
Melissa Bonilla ’98 is a professional singer-songwriter and recording artist. Born in Queens, NY, Melissa was the youngest of a Latino family and grew up in a small suburban town on Long Island. She was raised by a large family of musicians on her mother’s side. Her late maternal grandfather, Nicasio Martinez, was an accomplished singer in Puerto Rico and New York from the 1940s to the 60s, performing with world-renowned orchestras of that era. Her mother and relatives were vocalists and musicians as well.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.Melissa’s musical style was influenced by all the colorful elements of her youth. Her background is a variety of Latin sounds, pop, rock, R&B, freestyle, house, EDM, and metal. Staying immersed in her culture and being exposed to new styles of sound played a big role in her upbringing. As a result, she has an eclectic mix of styles that she brings to her music. In 2006, she released a single with Sony Music, a remake duet of salsa classic song “Ven Devorame Otra Vez,” produced by Sergio George, an iconic producer of contemporary salsa music. The song charted on the Billboards Tropical Top List.
A few years later, she faced health challenges and a cancer journey that placed her life goals on hold. After a long hiatus from the industry, she has found her way back into the studio making more music and performing live again. She currently works in the nonprofit sector, using her platform to share music and raise awareness for the many causes she advocates for: the cancer community, grieving children, and music as a modality for therapy and healing. “It’s my life’s purpose now to serve others and share my survivorship to inspire and support others. There’s no greater honor than to connect with the community through the power of music.”
In spring 2022, she released her newest single with CMG music label, titled “Baby I’ma Want You.” In June 2022, she performed at the National Puerto Rican Day Parade, and was featured on Primetime Television ABC7 as “Artist of the Year.”
What inspired you to pursue a career in music? I started taking piano lessons at the age of 7, and fell in love with playing, composing, and writing songs. Music was my therapy. I was the only girl and the youngest of my siblings, so I spent a lot of time alone bonding with my music, and working out all my emotions by singing and accompanying myself on the piano. It was a natural fit for me.
How do you think your time at Kellenberg Memorial helped to prepare you for your success in your professional pursuits? Circumstances were challenging at home. It was during my junior year at Kellenberg that the trajectory of my life changed. With the relentless encouragement of my friends and KMHS faculty, in that one year, I joined the piano club, jazz band, chorus, and drama. My actual “self” transformed and my confidence and self-image started to bloom.
Do you have any advice for current students or young alumni who are interested in pursuing a career in music? My biggest advice to students and the youth is: never give up on your art or your passion! Whether you choose to pursue it as a career or as a hobby, always find some time to feed your soul with what makes you happy.
Do you have any favorite teachers, coaches, or club moderators from your time at Kellenberg Memorial? Yes! I desperately needed mentorship during my high school years and my teachers and my KMHS friends were a family to me. They saved me. To my teachers at KMHS: Mr. and Mrs. Dugal, Mr. Blanton, and Mr. Catania, I am forever grateful for all the support and love you gave me. And a special thank you to Mr. Basile!!!
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After completing his two-year Peace Corps service in Ukraine from 2018 until March 2020, Kiran Swamy ’12 now works as an official for Peace Corps Headquarters in Washington DC. As the Country Desk Officer for Paraguay, Peru, and Solomon Islands, he has been supporting the re-entry of volunteers after the global COVID-19 evacuation, as well as the bilateral country agreement negotiations between the government of Solomon Islands and the Peace Corps.
What inspired you to pursue a career in public service, diplomacy, and international relations? I always had an interest in public service and global development, but my interest level really piqued during college at Sacred Heart University when I participated with international service projects in Guatemala.
How do you think your time at Kellenberg Memorial helped to prepare you for your success in your academic and professional pursuits? Kellenberg actually played a huge role in paving my career path. In 2017, I volunteered as an English teacher in Honiara, Solomon Islands with Archbishop Chris Cardone. This experience enabled me to reflect on my desires for future Peace Corps service, and it provided me with an incredible life experience that gave me the skills eventually succeed as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Ukraine.
Do you have any advice for current students or young alumni interested in pursuing a career in international relations? My best piece of simple, practical advice would be to have an open mind. If you’re open to different paths or ideas, then you will put yourself in a position to gain worthwhile experiences that will help you in the long run.
Do you have any favorite teachers, coaches, or club moderators from your time at Kellenberg Memorial? Father Tom and Brother Ken… but those are easy answers. When I was a student at Kellenberg I was closest with Mr. Len Breton.
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Michael Doht ’22 is currently in his freshman year at Siena College, where he hopes to major in business. A dedicated boy scout since the age of six, Michael earned the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout at a ceremony on January 6th. For his Eagle Scout project, he designed three rolling bookshelves to be used in the North Amityville Senior Center. Michael worked with Ms. Viscel Moore, the Director of Beautification for the Town of Babylon, to obtain the specifications for the project after she expressed that the senior center residents were interested in starting a book club. The goal of the rolling bookshelves is to give the residents greater access to books, especially those who are not fully mobile. Michael organized the acquisition of all the materials and requested the help of some of his fellow scouts to construct the bookshelves. He delivered his project to the senior center in May 2022, and continues to actively acquire books to bring to the center for all the seniors to enjoy.
What inspired you to work to earn the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout? I was inspired to earn the rank of Eagle Scout by the influence of the older scouts before me and the leaders in my troop. They set a great foundation and really pushed us on the right track. With all the years I put into Scouting, I knew I had to reach the goal of earning Eagle.
How do you think your time at Kellenberg Memorial helped to prepare you for all the hard work and dedication that goes into becoming an Eagle Scout? Kellenberg taught me a lot of key skills which helped me not only during my journey as a Scout, but which will also help me for the rest of my life. Life as a Kellenberg student, just like Scouting, is all about balance. Managing my time between sports, clubs, and activities at Kellenberg allowed me to focus on things outside of school, like Scouting.
Do you have any advice for current students or young alumni who are interested in working toward the rank of Eagle Scout? If I had to give advice to younger students who are planning on achieving Eagle, I would tell them to put in their best work and to enjoy their experiences while they last. The main reason I achieved the rank of Eagle was due to the perseverance I had. You can always find your way around obstacles as long as you put your mind to something.
Do you have any favorite teachers, coaches, or club moderators from your time at Kellenberg Memorial? There are many favorites I have among the faculty. All of the priests and brothers played a significant role in making me who I am today, and I can’t thank them enough. Father Dan was always my go-to guy. Mr. Tahany was also a great teacher that I really enjoyed during my junior and senior years. Coach Kirk was also always there for the students (especially the members of the baseball team whenever we needed him), and he was a great person to talk to.
The Day of Giving is Kellenberg’s largest fundraising event of the year which contributes towards the school’s Shepherd’s Fund—the school’s annual fund that supports all aspects of the education of the heart and mind that are integral to Kellenberg Memorial.
Day of Giving began with the Senior Class Gift Presentation to Bro. Kenneth Hoagland, S.M. which was live-streamed to all homerooms. During the presentation, members of the senior class were able to share their own individual experiences during their time at Kellenberg. Many discussed their own personal growth and the unbreakable relationships formed during their four years as a firebird. The Class of 2023 donated over $4,000.
As the day progressed, the social media and photography teams kept the Kellenberg family updated with short interviews and updates of the donation total. Students and faculty were also encouraged to show off their school spirit by wearing their favorite Kellenberg Memorial gear.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.During all lunch periods, raffle tickets were sold to students for a variety of prizes including: NY Mets Tickets, NY Islanders Tickets, Air Pods, Apple Pencils, speakers, gift cards, and Kellenberg merchandise from the bookstore. The gym was also open to students during their lunch periods for a photo booth, games, and music provided by DJ OB. Students even had the opportunity to write “Thank you” cards to show their gratitude; these will eventually be sent out to all the donors who supported the fund.
Mr. Douglas Cioffi ‘97 describes Day of Giving as “a one-day effort of philanthropy aimed to inspire the generations of students, families, and friends to support Kellenberg Memorial’s One Heart – One Mind.”
Overall, there were a total of 1,034 generous donors that contributed $179,315.43 to Kellenberg’s Day of Giving. The Kellenberg Memorial family is forever grateful for the generosity and support from its donors to continue the Marianist tradition of teaching one heart and mind.
On February 27, the One Heart, One Mind Many Cultures Club collaborated with the College Placement Office for an event about Historically Black Colleges and Universities. The event was open to every Kellenberg student to shed some light on the HBCU experience.
Two Kellenberg alumni, Miles Francisque and Claude-Albert Makelele, spoke to Kellenberg students via Zoom call to discuss the Historically Black Colleges they attend, Howard University and Central State University. They discussed the ins and outs of student life and academics at their respective colleges. The floor was also open for students to ask questions not only about attending an HBCU, but also about the college experience in general.
Junior Isaiah Desbas says, “Listening to Kellenberg alumni talk about their experiences of finding their new home away from home was very comforting. Events like these are extremely helpful in the midst of the college search.”
Overall, this meeting proved to be very engaging and informative to students interested in attending a Historically Black College or University.
Dr. Carolina de Elia ’04 graduated from St. George’s University School of Medicine in 2013. She completed her residency in West Virginia and worked in the VA Hospital as an internist. In 2017, Dr. de Elia returned to New York for her fellowship training in Palliative and Hospice Medicine. She is currently the Director of Palliative Medicine at Huntington Hospital, where she has led multiple department and hospital-wide incentives specifically focused on improving healthcare delivery to the aging population. While she is clearly very active in the hospital setting and hopes to continue to grow in her field, her life goes far beyond medicine. Dr. de Elia has two beautiful, smart, and active little ones. Although she admits the balance of motherhood and medicine is not easy, she cannot imagine her life any differently.
What inspired you to specialize in palliative healthcare? This is not a short answer, but I will try my best. It’s important to understand what palliative medicine is because so often people think it’s solely end-of-life care. Palliative medicine is a supportive specialty that helps patients with any chronic disease LIVE with their disease. Whether it’s symptom management, emotional support, or spiritual support, it is a team that focuses on the whole patient and tries to provide them with what they need to continue living a dignified life while getting disease-oriented treatments. Often, we associate this with cancer patients. Hospice is a specialty that focuses on end-of-life care and helps patients who are dying of their disease. It gives support to a person when his or her disease no longer has safe or effective curative treatment options. I often call this a symptom-oriented treatment to remind patients that they continue to be supported and never abandoned. The underlying theme in this specialty is support and dignity. As a medical resident in the intensive care unit, I reveled in the excitement of procedures and immediate patient response with some of the interventions. Yet, aside from that technical and textbook care, I was also that resident who at 3 AM would get a call asking if I could see the patient at the end of the hall because he was dying. “The family is bedside, and no one seems to understand this isn’t working. We know you are the one who can really help.” I would walk over, sit down, and ask what they understood about what was going on. Often, I was met with a one-sentence response which I knew was far too little understanding for the level of complexity the patient had. So, we delved into the details— we talked about what happened, what’s happening, and what will happen while focusing on the patient’s identity, passions, and priorities. Somehow time and time again what should have been devastating news ended in a beautiful conversation and an ultimate realization and plan on how to best honor the patient. Oftentimes those plans were far simpler than the elaborate interventions we were attempting. –They want us to focus on his symptoms, his pain is an issue. — They want to go home and be as comfortable as possible. — They want to die with dignity. — They don’t want extraordinary measures taken. I never thought to do palliative medicine as a specialty until I was interviewing for my critical care fellowships and I really sat down and deconstructed what it was I truly wanted to focus most on. I have a passion for procedures and all of medicine, but I felt I had a calling to use my gift to connect to others so I can help all my patients live a more fulfilled life regardless of physical limitations or the stage of disease they may be in.
How do you think your time at Kellenberg Memorial helped to prepare you for your success in your academic and professional pursuits? Kellenberg Memorial’s emphasis on strong morals, dedication to academic excellence, and the presence of passionate teachers collectively provided me with a solid foundation for success in my academic and professional journey. The commitment to strong academics at Kellenberg Memorial equipped me with a solid educational background, providing me with the knowledge and skills necessary for higher education and subsequent professional endeavors.
Do you have any advice for current students or young alumni who are interested in pursuing a career in healthcare? Find a mentor, talk to people currently in the field, and get into the weeds! Send me an email; we can talk. Healthcare is huge. It’s not just being a doctor or a nurse. There are so many different specialties and opportunities to grow in this field, so find the one that suits you and brings you joy and excitement. Always remember, “Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.”
Do you have any favorite teachers, coaches, or club moderators from your time at Kellenberg Memorial? I loved every single one of my teachers! The most memorable experience I carry with me almost daily is my time on Study Tour in ’03. Everyone on that trip had an incredible impact on my life. Every single moderator was amazing. Unfortunately for her, every once in a while, Mrs. Vanderberg (Nichtern) is still forced to tolerate me when I reach out! A teacher I always wanted to thank but never had the opportunity to was Mr. Dunn. He died after I graduated. He had such a huge impact on my senior year. He taught Morality to us and one of the things he had us do was keep a journal that he told us he would read and respond to with a letter at the end of the year. His letter was so meaningful. He encouraged me to lead and always be the person I was. He encouraged me to do what mattered to me and do so unapologetically. He asked me once if the bookstore sold a specific blanket that had the Kellenberg seal on it – would students buy it? I gave my opinion and “market analysis.” A few weeks later I went to class and he gifted me the blanket. I still have it 20 years later.
Isabella Nieminen ’20 is a Fulbright Scholar to the Republic of Georgia. She graduated from The George Washington University in May 2024, receiving her B.A. in International Affairs, concentrating on Conflict Resolution and European/Eurasian Studies. While at GW, she participated in the Dean’s Scholars Research Cohort, conducting field research in Tbilisi on civil society repression and resilience. For this research, she received the Undergraduate Research Award and was recognized as an Enosinian Scholar, a distinction granted to GW’s most outstanding theses. As a part of her studies, Isabella spent two months in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, studying Russian through the US Department of State’s Critical Language Scholarship.
Isabella interned at The Center For European Policy Analysis and The German Marshall Fund’s Alliance for Securing Democracy, providing research support. She worked with Project Common Bond, a summer program for young survivors of conflict, and participated in the US Institute of Peace’s US-Vietnam Youth Cohort. In May 2024, she was the recipient of the GWU Skip Gnehm Leadership, Ethics, and Practice Prize, which is given to a graduate who has demonstrated ethical thinking during their tenure at the university.
On the side, she is passionate about theater and literature, having performed with the GW Shakespeare Company and contributed to The Shakespearean International Yearbook as a research assistant. In the future, Isabella plans to obtain a joint JD/LLM and pursue a career in international humanitarian law, international justice and accountability, and conflict resolution.
What inspired you to pursue a career in international relations and apply for the Fulbright Scholarship? As a child, my parents were my biggest role models (and still are). My dad moved to the United States hoping to be an interpreter for the UN. However, he discovered New York’s culinary scene and decided to become a chef. Still, he maintained a passion for international relations and history, and we spent long hours discussing these topics at the dinner table when I was a kid. My interest in conflict resolution was also heavily influenced by my mother’s experience surviving 9/11. Growing up, I felt moved by the bravery of my mother and all of those present on that day. When I got older, I began to understand my mom’s experience as fitting within a wider global context. I feel a desire to find ways to better balance the use of US resources and create ethical policies that work better not simply for America but for the world’s population as a whole, increasing our role in promoting peace and mitigating violence. As for Fulbright, I knew that I wanted a year or two of hands-on experience before going to law school. Fulbright seemed like a constructive way to combine my interests in language learning, travel, and cross-cultural understanding. I chose to go to Georgia, where I’ll be teaching English at Zugdidi State University, located in the northwest right next to the occupied territory of Abkhazia.
How do you think your time at Kellenberg Memorial helped to prepare you for your success in your academic and professional pursuits? During my time at Kellenberg, I discovered the importance of giving back to my community. Thanks to Kellenberg’s culture of involvement and abundance of extracurricular activities, I met and learned from incredibly dedicated, passionate students, many of whom are some of my closest friends today! I also found a lot of fulfillment in my regular trips to the Bristal and St. Martin’s, as well as my summer service trip to Lourdes. It was during my high school years that I began to truly understand the value of looking beyond one’s own self, building deep relationships with those around you, and actively working to better your community. These kinds of personal values are critical in the field of conflict resolution.
Do you have any advice for current students or young alumni who are interested in applying for the Fulbright Program or pursuing a career in international affairs? Engage with all kinds of opinions: read news, long-form journalism, and literature written by those who hold different views or come from different backgrounds than you. Take part in honest dialogue with others, but don’t just listen to refute – seek to truly understand and empathize. This field needs people who don’t turn away when met with different perspectives. The mark of an effective leader is the ability to clearly communicate one’s own convictions while still seeking to uplift others’ voices and build mutual respect and understanding. Commitment to these skills can lay the groundwork for productive, peace-oriented solutions. When it comes to personal and academic development, “if you’re the smartest person in the room, you’re in the wrong room.” I’ve learned the most when pushing myself to attend a conference or participate in a project that I didn’t necessarily feel qualified for. Admitting when I didn’t know something or seeking advice from experts pushed me to grow more than I thought I could. Finally, start early and start small– big goals are achieved iteratively! When I began applying for Fulbright, I was intimidated by what seemed like a never-ending, arduous task. But I started way ahead of the deadline, and wrote just a few sentences a day. I didn’t pressure myself to make the writing perfect – in fact, my first complete draft needed tons of editing. However, breaking the task into little pieces allowed me to brainstorm and edit without stress.
Do you have any favorite teachers, coaches, or club moderators from your time at Kellenberg Memorial? During the 2020 lockdown, my Latin teacher Mr. Cicalese drove all across Long Island, hand-delivering a framed quote from Virgil’s Aeneid to each of his seniors. The quote read “quid struis?” and meant, “what are you building?” In a larger sense, are you happy with the life you’re building for yourself? That picture frame sat on my desk all four years of undergrad, reminding me to reorient myself when I was distracted and to keep pushing when I wanted to throw in the towel. Mr. Cicalese made Latin more than just a complex set of grammar rules; it became a fun, meaningful topic that contributed to my life personally. Another teacher who has had a lasting impact is Mrs. Von. After putting reading to the side for some time in favor of things I deemed more “practical–” studying an extra hour, etc– she pushed me to pick more books up. She reminded me and many others that time spent doing something you love is never time wasted– reading has made my life a lot richer both academically and personally. Also, Mrs. Riiska and Mr. Kennedy made my time on the Model UN team really valuable. Thanks to them, my first lessons in international affairs were fun and engaging! They encouraged me to speak my mind, think outside the box, and collaborate with others. I look back fondly on our annual retreats at Founder’s Hollow.
On November 16th, Kellenberg was visited by alumna Sister Ann Thomas of the class of 2009. She is a member of the Dominican sisters stationed in Nashville. Sister Ann came back to meet with students and visit with many of her old teachers.
