VOLUME 28, NO. 1 – FALL 2014

INSIDE

A New Day at SBA . . . . . . . . .1 Teachers in the Spotlight . . . .6 SBA Gives Back . . . . . . . . . . .14 Annual Report of Gifts . . 15-16

EDUCATE THE GIRL – EMPOWER THE WOMAN – ENLIGHTEN THE WORLD

Basilian legacy

TEACHERS IN THE

SPOTLIGHT...Shaping Basil Girls

for the 21st Century

Fall 2014

Dear Alumni and Friends,

As we step into the new year, we are very excited about the future. There are lots of new and exciting things happening at 711 Fox Chase Rd.

Generally, after graduation, alumnae tend to forget the impact of their high school education. Life gets busy and memories fade. I have been amazed that this general truth does not seem to hold at St. Basil Academy. Being new to Philadelphia and not knowing anyone in this area, I am meeting many people all over the area. Over and over when I say that I am the new principal at St. Basil, I hear warm and heartfelt stories from our alum. The stories told are sometimes humorous and always poignant, speaking of St. Basil Academy not only as a place where quality education happened, but where life and personal growth were honored and cherished. You are blessed to have been a part of the tradition of St. Basil Academy.

As we look today at the young women who walk these very same halls that you did, you would be impressed to see that they are young woman of quality, compassion, generosity, and great academic promise. They strive to be their best in and out of the classroom, and they take care of each other. Our students are the absolute best! I say that without question or hesitation. Having worked with fine young women and men from across this country and abroad over the years, these young women, as a community, are absolutely outstanding in every way.

Years ago I had the opportunity to work with a Native American community. One of the lessons they taught me was to honor the past and the people who created that past. You are the “root of the living history” for St. Basil Academy. You are the strength from the past, providing the strong root of tradition, community, and excellence on which we build the future. What a wonderful future we have in store!

Most humbly I thank you for all you are and all you have given to perpetuate this amazing tradition. May God bless you and those you love abundantly for your goodness.

Most Sincerely,

Gwen Coté Principal

Saint Basil Academy is a college preparatory school for young women, sponsored by the Sisters of Saint Basil the Great, and rooted in the Ukrainian Byzantine tradition of the Catholic Church. We are dedicated to creating an environment nourished by the Gospel values of Jesus Christ in which young women can develop to the fullness of their Christian potential. We strive to educate the whole person by integrating faith and life while providing excellence in education and by awakening in our students an appreciation of the inherent beauty of creation and a commitment to improving their world.

Fall 2014

Table of Contents

All that Glitters Pages 1-3

It’s a Great Day at SBA . . . . . 1

Class of 2014 . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

In the Spotlight Pages 4-9

Teachers . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6

Music Academy . . . . . . . . . . 7

Student . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Alumna . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

SBA Forever Pages 10-13

Remembering . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Class Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Paw Prints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Alumnae Events . . . . . . . . . 13

SBA Gives Back SBA Cares . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Annual Fund Pages 15 -16

List of Donors . . . . . . . . . . .15-16

Pawction 2015 Pawction . . . . . Inside Back

Cover

On the front cover:

Current SBA Faculty members,

Theresa Hartey, Christine Meko,

Soo Chang, & Kim Fina,

sport their smiling faces as

they do each day for our girls.

On the back cover:

The Science Club enjoyed a fall trip to the

Adventure Aquarium learning lots about

careers in Marine Biology, while having

fun in the process.

WELCOME

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ALL THAT

It’s A New Day at SBA!Students, parents, teachers, and staff alike have seen and felt this “new day at SBA energy” spear headed by our principal, Gwen Cote´. Her vision for our dear Academy is exciting and sure to take many by surprise, putting Saint Basil in the forefront of exceptional educational experiences.

We wanted to share some of this enthusiasm with you, our Alumnae. Here is just a sampling of what has been spreading throughout our community. This includes both new endeavors and improvements to existing activities.

• New students, or SBA sisters should we say, were greeted with a warm welcome from our Panther during their Freshman Orientation Day. The Class of 2018 enjoyed meeting one another and sharing in their first community event, the Freshman BBQ, provided by the Parents Club.

• Our Fall Sports teams, tennis, soccer, volleyball, and field hockey, are all off to a fine season with more victories credited to them this year than we have seen in recent times. Keep this fiery momentum going, Girls! You make us proud!

• Senior classmates shared in Liturgy and activities during their Senior Friendship Day, which was a wonderful way to kick off their final year at SBA. They were reminded to appreciate the strong bonds of friendship they share, as this will surely assist them in making their year great!

• St. Basil’s English Department kicked off the year outside of our SBA doors with a Fall Book Event at the Willow Grove Barnes & Noble Store. A portion of purchases made using our special SBA code allowed the department to raise funds. Everyone enjoyed helping the school, while also fueling their book collection. Best of all, there were members of the community who learned about SBA as they paid a visit to our table. They even contributed to our cause using our code. Kudos, English Department!

• Senior Emily Mc Cann has been named a Commended Student in the 2015 National Merit Scholarship Program! To put this into perspective for you, of the 1.5 million students who took the PSAT, which registered them for this competition, only 34,000 nationwide receive this honor. It is truly a remarkable feat!

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ALL THAT

Class of 2014 College DecisionsKatie Albright Fordham University

Allyson Alemany Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania

Olivia Bates Arcadia University

Madeline Beck LaSalle University

Julia Blackmon Temple University

Ellie Britt Saint Joseph’s University

Kaitlyn Brogan The University of Scranton

Lauren BroganThe University of Scranton

Maura BrownseyWilkes University

Caroline BuckleySaint Joseph’s University

Christina BurkeEast Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania

Madison BurrowsEast Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania

Alexa CaranciBloomsburg University of Pennsylvania

Ashley CareyCoastal Carolina University

Olivia CarterImmaculata University

Jessica ChildsUrsinus College

Gabriella CifelliArcadia University

Melissa CipollaTemple University

Rebecca JudgeSaint Joseph’s University

Hayley KazlauskasIona College

Kaylee KilkennyFordham University

Kyleah KonenThe University of Alabama

Stephanie KraynikMonmouth University

Larysa KupichaTemple University

Maggie LangAlvernia University

Donna LiuDrexel University

Carly LongoUniversity of Delaware

Caitlin MacGregorImmaculata University

Devon EwertCoastal Carolina University

Adeline FagelSeton Hall University

Sabrina FalaSaint Joseph’s University

Holly ForstUniversity of Pittsburgh

Kalee FuegelKutztown University of Pennsylvania

Meghan GessnerThe University of Vermont

Molly GreenbergUniversity of the Sciences in Philadelphia

Julia HaneyThe Pennsylvania State University / University Park

Kelsey HellerAbington Memorial Hospital Dixon School of Nursing

Paulina JalonSaint Joseph’s University

Samantha JarrettTemple University

Alexa ComeyWest Chester University of Pennsylvania

Renee CraigThe Pennsylvania State University / Abington

Dolores CresseeEast Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania

Lindsay CreterCabrini College

Zena Marie CruzCommunity College of Philadelphia

Madeline DePascaleThe Pennsylvania State University / University Park

Jaclyn DiGiulioTemple University

Nicole DippelLaSalle University

Emma DoughertyPhiladelphia University

Katie DuganCoastal Carolina University

Angela EvansUniversity of Illinois at Chicago

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ALL THAT

Kelly ManciniKutztown University of Pennsylvania

Amelia MayThe University of Rhode Island

Madison McCullionTemple University

Brigid McGettiganLoyola University Maryland

Casey McGrathPhiladelphia University

Corinne McGrathSaint Joseph’s University

Bridgette McMeartyImmaculata University

Cara MignanoSaint Joseph’s University

Claudine MozdzonekDrexel University

Olena MykhaylyukIthaca College

Taryn NealsRider University

Brandi NelsonThe Pennsylvania State University / Berks

Victoria TraliesSaint Joseph’s University

Sara VioliMontgomery County Community College

Courtney Anne WeissLa Salle University

Maggie WestonWest Chester University of Pennsylvania

Molly Norton University of Pittsburgh

Kathryn O’HaraThe University of Scranton

Ashley OlesniewiczBloomsburg University of Pennsylvania

Abigail PaleDelaware Valley College

Mnali PatelUniversity of Pennsylvania

Anne ReganWest Chester University of Pennsylvania

Abigail RodgersOhio University

Emily SchwarzThe Pennsylvania State University / University Park

Samantha ShultzEast Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania

Kaitlyn SkalskiCabrini College

Jessica SuppererPhiladelphia Univrsity

Samantha WestonEast Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania

Amanda WilickiLongwood University

Briana WilliamsRadford University

Sarah WilsonRutgers, The State University of New Jersey at New Brunswick

Gabrielle WolkWest Chester University of Pennsylvania

Brigid YoungDeSales University

Congratulations! The Class of 2014 has been awarded $11,654,480 in Merit Scholarships!

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TEACHERS IN THE

SBA is not comprised of one single group or person, but rather, our collective whole. That is why we “spotlight” members of our community who hold unique positions within our Saint Basil Academy Family.

We are strongly rooted in our Catholic faith and passionate when it comes to our “family,” those who we laugh, cry, and grow with throughout our high school years. This sisterhood born at Saint Basil Academy lasts well beyond our four years though and encompasses more than simply our classmates. An integral group of role models helps to strengthen this bond among us. . . our teachers. So it is with those who educate us that we begin.

As you enjoy reading about these SBA teachers of today, may you be flooded with fond memories of similar educators who touched your life. To all of these men and women, we give thanks and credit. You helped shape us into the Basil Girls we are today.

Mrs. Christine MekoJust as a Basil Girl cannot be referred to as an average teenager, so too, a Basil Teacher cannot be lumped together with other educators. Case in point, our first Teacher Spotlight, Mrs. Christine Meko. Early on in her education, she chose to pursue a career as a lawyer, while knowing in her heart she would enjoy being a teacher, too. She credits much of her impeccable research and writing skills to her days of practicing law. So it was only natural for Mrs. Meko to take these abilities coupled with her passion for writing and use them fittingly to teach Secondary English.

“Entering a classroom where the other students want to learn and be a part of what is going on is truly a gift,” expresses teacher Meko, reflecting on her experiences at SBA. On a daily basis, she conveys this message to her students reminding them how fortunate they are to attend a school where the priority each day is learning and where each student can freely embrace her faith. Mrs. Meko showcases this belief in all of her teaching.

One of her favorite lessons is from her elective class, Gothic Literature. Together they read the original gothic novel, The Castle of Otranto, and as a culminating project the students work in teams to “pitch” the movie

version of the novel to Mrs. Meko, who plays a wealthy Hollywood executive. Students cast actors & actresses, pick a setting, select music, costuming and special effects, write scenes as a screen play and even design a release poster or movie trailer teaser, all the while making connections to the elements of the Gothic genre established by the novel. Mrs. Meko exclaims, “The creativity on

display in their final presentations always astounds me!”

Any of the students in class with Mrs. Meko can attest to the fact that she truly educates the whole person, one of the long-standing traditions of Basil’s teachers. A final example showcasing how she does this is through her ongoing efforts to teach the girls about making a first impression. She strives to impart on them the significance that we only get one chance at a first impression and in most cases, this is done through personal writing. Therefore, Mrs. Meko wants the girls to fully understand that writing well and communicating intelligently will help them tremendously in whatever profession they chose to adopt, but indifference to writing can preclude them from countless opportunities. The Basil Girls fortunate enough to learn from Mrs. Meko will surely make tremendous first impressions under her tutelage.

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TEACHERS IN THE

Mrs. Kim Fina American History may not be the most riveting course to some students of today. However, this is certainly not the case for the students in Mrs. Kim Fina’s class. She engages the girls by sending them back in time to our country’s fight for Independence!

Mrs. Fina is the teacher, so of course she gets the lead role of King George, while having students assume the roles of patriots and loyalists. Each girl dresses as her character, staying true to her role throughout the Debate on American Independence. Prior to class, each student researches her character and provides a resume. Mrs. Fina believes this affords her girls an opportunity to practice real world skills like resume writing and the difficulties encountered when making tough life choices, just as our early ancestors did during the American fight for Independence.

Aside from bringing history to life, Mrs. Fina also strives to encourage her students to be participatory citizens, starting with their right to vote and continuing with

activism on issues concerning them as adults. Students have shared that they enjoy the life lessons she imparts on them, too. They have learned that “hard work really does bring rewards,” and that “hindsight is 20/20.”

It is so easy to see how Mrs. Fina puts into practice her love of teaching through the numerous ways in which she helps SBA’s young ladies develop an appreciation for history and government. At the same time, any passerby of her classroom would hear without a doubt the joy she feels towards her students. Mrs. Fina surely is leaving her mark on history.

Mrs. Theresa HarteyDo you know anyone who can defy gravity? Here at SBA we do, and believe it or not, she doesn’t even teach Science. It is our very own Mrs. Theresa Hartey, who teaches English and Math. Her enthusiasm for BOTH content areas led Mrs. Hartey down this path. Through the power of education, she hopes to take her students on pathways anywhere they wish to go.

High school in her eyes is “such an exciting time for young people ~ a time of growth, learning, friendship, and fun.” Mrs. Hartey shares this vision daily with her students as they begin each class with prayer followed by top-secret lessons. Why the secrecy? “I try to keep my best lessons hush-hush so I can see that ‘I got it’ look on my students’ faces,” she excitedly explains!

Basil Girls not only get to experience Mrs. Hartey’s classes, but also her innate desire to make the world a better place. She is one of the moderators for SBA CARES, a new club at the Academy calling girls into action for the many causes facing us today. They work on a number of service projects together at school and beyond, which has proven to be a wonderful experience for both teacher and students.

While Math and English lessons abound in Mrs. Hartey’s classes, she has one more important lesson to impart on her students; a lesson shared by all Basil’s

teachers, past, present, and future, through their words and deeds. Mrs. Hartey and other SBA educators truly take heed to Maya Angelou’s words, “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but they will never forget how you made them feel.” A Basil Teacher, like a Basil Girl, is truly awesome! They embrace each person for who she is!

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TEACHERS IN THE

Mrs. Soo Chang

Besides having teachers who defy gravity at SBA, we also have super heroes here, or at least teachers who empower our girls to be Wonder Women in the world of science. Mrs. Soo Chang makes it her daily mission to increase the number of women in the field of science as she passes on her deep love of lifelong learning to our Basil Girls.

Students who sit in Mrs. Chang’s chemistry class know full well how to become such Wonder Women. They are

expected to think critically, do their best each day, manage their time well, and be fully organized. For it is in practicing all of these good work habits that Teacher Chang knows our young ladies will enlighten the world as successful, empowered women. Chemistry truly lends itself well to learning these habits, as there is a great mix of science, math, and such real world skills. All of this adds up to a science class that is far from ordinary presented by a woman who is far from ordinary.

When commenting on what makes St. Basil’s such a unique learning community, Mrs. Chang replied, “At SBA, students do not have to worry about societal stereotypes. They can be smart in science and show it! While at coed schools, girls don’t want to appear smart or liking science because then the boys won’t pay attention to them. The warm and supporting SBA culture also allows any girl to reach her potential.”

Through her constant support and encouragement, Mrs. Chang imparts on her students the mantra of Educate the Girl, Empower the Woman, & Enlighten the World. What a wonderful world it will be as her students set off into it!

Fall Food FrenzyOur SBA school family rose to the occasion again in fine fashion. There was a dire emergency need for food at the Jesus Focus Food Ministries in Southampton, PA, which one of our faculty heard about through the local news. The government funding for this organization was used up for the month with the cupboards bare. So SBA teachers, staff, and students rallied together to collect an abundant amount of food, which was then personally delivered to the Jesus Focus Food Ministries. What a wonderful example of the gracious spirit alive and well at SBA!

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STUDENT IN THE

Grace Olivia CampoliAnother integral part of our Saint Basil Academy family is our girls, Basil Girls. Our new Principal Gwen Cote´ shared with them in September, “People think the principal’s job is to be the boss of the teachers. That’s not true. My number one job is YOU! Without YOU, there would be no reason for our school!” My! Oh my, how right she is.

The young ladies who attend SBA truly set the tone for all who enter. Thankfully they have created and continue to foster a warm, welcoming environment for anyone and everyone who walks through our doors. This contagious vibe resonates throughout the hallways, into the classrooms, and out into the world. It is what draws many teachers here because in their random words,

“Basil Girls are good to one another. ~ They are serious about academics, but also able to embrace the delights of being a teenager in the 21st century. ~ Basil Girls make the world a better place!” ~

Choosing simply one student to spotlight was difficult since each girl shines in her own way. Tough as it was though, we did find one, senior Grace Olivia Campoli, second from the youngest of six girls, but the first in her family to attend SBA.

Ironically enough, Grace loves to shine, in the spotlight that is. Entertaining people gives her an amazing feeling inside. She began her singing and acting career as a fourth grader in St. Luke’s. At that time, Grace did not have any desire to sing or act. She simply didn’t want to, but her Mom, like many moms, knew best. Mrs. Campoli pushed Grace into trying out for “Seussical, the Musical” so that she could overcome her shyness. This truly was a turning point for Grace because from day one of practice, she was hooked! Many of the people she met

during this production were influential in her decision to later come to St. Basil. During that same year, Grace also attended the SBA production of Meet Me in St. Louis, which further peeked her interest in the Academy.

Over the years, Grace performed in numerous musicals from Beauty and the Beast to Bye Bye Birdie. Her favorite acting role was Amber von Tussle in Abington Junior High’s production of Hairspray, because as Grace says, “She was a mean girl, not like me, so it was a fun acting exercise.” On the flip side, her favorite singing part was that of Robin in SBA’s Smile production. This won Grace over as Robin is very similar to her, and she could easily relate to the emotions Robin felt.

When she is not on the stage, Grace keeps busy with a variety of other activities including: Student Council, Drama Club, Science Olympiad, and Be the Change Club. A local food store in Glenside is also graced to have her on staff as a cashier. When Grace speaks of her future career, she is very definitive; “I want to combine my love for music and science, so I hope to be a Music Therapist.” Perhaps the only thing that Grace was more certain of is that someday, she wants to be just like her Mom. She is amazed by her Mom’s tenacious ability to finish a Master’s program while still being the best Mom ever. In Grace’s words, “My Mom knows exactly what to say to me and each of my sisters when we have a problem, plus she loves her job.” What more could any woman ask for?

Grace epitomizes what it means to be a Basil Girl. She is a leader in all areas, she is bright, she is motivated, and she leaves the world better than the way she found it.

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ALUMNA IN THE

Anna Heigh A final group of individuals shaping who we are as Saint Basil Academy is our Alumnae. Without YOU, our home away from home here at SBA would not continue to produce the brightest and strongest Wonder Women found in our world today.

Anna Heigh is one such woman, who graduated with SBA’s Class of 2010. Since that time, she has been busy pursuing an education and now career in the art world.

Anna studied at and recently graduated from The University of the Arts in the field of Illustration. During her college years, Anna’s talent exploded bringing with it many accolades including recipient of the University’s President Scholarship. Her distinct style aided her in receiving 1st Place two consecutive years from the Philadelphia Sketch Club’s Annual Illustrators Exhibition in the College Student Award category. This prestigious organization additionally awarded Anna 1st Place in the Sequential Illustration Exhibition. The Philadelphia Sketch Club is America’s oldest art club with past members including N.C. Wyeth and Thomas Eakins to name but a few, placing Ms. Heigh is good company.

On top of these local awards, she was recognized nationally with the highest and most prestigious honor achievable for a student illustration major. The Society of Illustrators Annual Student Competition selected her from over 8,000 entries on the national and international levels. With this honor, Anna was invited to show her pieces

at the Society’s Gallery in New York City. What is most remarkable about Anna is that despite all of the honors and attention brought upon her and her artwork, she has remained a humble, gracious soul.

Anna’s Catholic education at St. Basil Academy was paramount in her college success because she learned how to be respectful and compassionate for others. She kept things in order and took her education very seriously, which obviously served her well. The exposure to art and culture at SBA also played a large role in her development. Anna’s love for traditions grew over the years creating a nostalgic feeling in her artwork combined with a contemporary edge, too. She always enjoyed the tradition of Pysanky. This is evidenced in her senior thesis work that was a series of Ukrainian Folk Tale images she created.

Art at its best is said to be a reflection of the artist. A truer statement could not be made in the case of Anna Heigh. For she is always true to herself and does not follow what has been done before her. Like so many of our Basil alum, Anna marches to her own beat, proudly sharing that beat with others.

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SAINT BASIL ACADEMY

Classmates from the Class of … 1943 Tess Bury ~ July 13, 2014

1952 Mary Ann Roy ~ May 7, 2014

1953 Marianne Fay Vardaman ~ May 29, 2014

1956 Dorothy Jawork Conard ~ July 19, 2014 *Mother of SBA Alumna Catherine Conard

1962 Kathleen O'Connell

1979 Mary Gramlich ~ April 1, 2014

1987 Jennifer McGarvey ~ August 11, 2014

Family Members of Classmates

Dr. Adrian Hulsebosch ~ October 25, 2013 ~ Husband to Jessica Orzel Hulsebosch Class of 1949

James W. Staerch ~ April 14, 2014 ~ Brother of SBA Alumnae Katherine Staerck Forst Class of 1975, Eileen Staerck Forst Class of 1979, & Maureen Staerck Shannon Class of 1983

Mrs. Patricia Brennan ~ April 7, 2014 ~ Former SBA Employee & Mother of SBA Alumnae Patricia Brennan Scanlon Class of 1982, Elizabeth Brennan Santiago Class of 1985, & Michelle Brennan Ungaro Class of 1987

Joe Garvey ~ January 12, 2014 Friend & Volunteer of SBA

Olga Olesh Saldutti went to heaven on January 30, 2014. She was 88 years old, and a 1942 graduate of St. Basil Academy. Olga and her daughter, Marianne Saldutti Murphy, class of 1966, were the first mother and daughter graduates of SBA. This was an accomplishment, which always made Olga feel quite proud. She was a wonderful person who will be dearly missed by so many.

Sister Mary Michael Bayda peacefully and quietly fell asleep in the Lord on Wednesday, October 8, 2014 at Saint Joseph Manor Nursing Home in Meadowbrook, PA. Sister had been residing there for the last month recovering from a recent fall.

Born in Baltimore, MD to Basil Bayda and Mary (Gren) Bayda, Sister attended Saint Michael Ukrainian Catholic Church before entering the Sisters of the Order of Saint Basil the Great on April 17, 1949. Sister received her first profession October 1, l949 and final profession on August 26, 1954.

Teacher, leader, builder, nurse, missionary - Sister Mary Michael lived an amazing and interesting life as a Sister of the Order of Saint Basil the Great. She lived that missionary spirit which Pope Francis tells us “… is not

only about geographical territories, but about peoples, cultures and individuals, because the ‘boundaries’ of faith do not only cross places and human traditions, but the heart of each man and each woman”. Sister Michael touched thousands of hearts in the United States, Brazil, Rome and Ukraine as she served them in countless roles throughout her vocational life.

Sister retired to the Motherhouse in 2010 where she resided until she fell and needed extra assistance. Sister loved to pray the rosary and would offer her prayers for the intention of the Sisters in ministry. As she strolled the corridors of the Motherhouse, her smiling face and prayerful spirit were a welcoming and embracing invitation to all.

Sister Michael was a model to the thousands of lives she touched on three continents throughout the world. She now crosses over the threshold into new life in a place that has been prepared for her by the Lord. Her memory is eternal from generation to generation.

IN MEMORIUM

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SAINT BASIL ACADEMY

SBA kicked off “Pink Day” on Wednesday, October 1, 2014 to support Breast Cancer Awareness Month with a school wide assembly. Two keynote speakers, both Academy graduates involved in the field of cancer awareness and support, enlightened the audience on hand.

Colleen Clarke Muraresku MS, LCGC ’05, a Gene Counselor for Einstein Medical Center’s Hereditary Risk Assessment Program, spoke of risk factors, detection, treatment, family history of the disease and genetic screening. “Know your family history”, Colleen emphasized. “Genetic screening after the age of 18 sounds an alert for potential danger.”

Caitlin Mahon ’06 alumna, introduced the audience to “Bringing Hope Home”, a charitable organization serving the Greater Philadelphia Area aiding cancer patients during treatment. BHH helps with the payment of bills—hospital, utilities, mortgages, fuel, grocery, appointment parking fees, phone, etc. relying on donations and sponsorships. They are one of the charitable organizations who benefits from the profits of our Paw Prints School Store. “But we’re more than financial help for a patient”, said Caitlin. “We try to be family for these people; talk to them like a mother or father, a sister or brother.”

A final alumna, Mollie Clark, RN’05, Assistant Manager of Fox Chase Cancer Center’s Step Down Unit and ICU, accompanied our speakers. Mrs. Linda Smith, our SBA Junior/Senior Counselor, and 4 year breast cancer survivor thanked the ladies for their time. National Cancer Awareness Month continued at St. Basil Academy with a “Sweat Like A Girl” thirty–day after school core challenge extended by the SBA FIT group.

Class Notes

Colleen Clark, ’05 was recently married and invited other proud SBA alum to be part of her bridal party. They included: Mollie Clark, Jacquelynn Graveley, and Brenna McGlynn. All had a wonderful time and best wishes sent out to the happy couple.

Molly Mahon ’12 returned to Nyeri, Kenya in May 2014 as a La Salle University coordinator for a three-week student service stay at a fellow La Sallian Secondary School. Molly says her passion for service and social justice was fostered and encouraged at SBA.

Rev. Walter Pasicznyk, son of Olympia Kuczerawe Pasicznyk ’58, was ordained a priest for the Ukrainian Catholic Archeparchy on June 22, 2014.

Karen Poehlmann O’Brien RN, ’87 is SBA’s part-time nurse. Her daughter, Kelly, is an SBA freshman.

Jena M. Steinmetz ’05 has written an account of her grandfather’s brave war experience entitled Codename: Sob Story, the Tale of a Picket Line Sailor during WWII (available at Amazon.com).

After graduation from Saint Joseph's University in May, Anna Ryan, ’10, will serve for one year with the Jesuit Volunteer Corps, an organization that, through pillars of: community, spirituality, simple living, and social justice, enhances the capacity of local organizations to serve their communities by providing volunteers to directly serve the poor and marginalized in the U.S. and developing countries. Anna will be living and working in Boston for Casserly House, a small neighborhood organization that provides Adult ESL classes and an after-school program for families who have recently immigrated to the United States.

SBA CELEBRATES

PINK DAY

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SAINT BASIL ACADEMY

SBA GEAR AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE

SBA Navy Crewneck Sweatshirt $25 Size S M L

SBA Rugby Shirt $50 Size XS S M L

SBA White ¼ Zip Sweatshirt $40 Size XS S M L XL

Cash and checks payable to Saint Basil Academy accepted.

For more information or to place an order, please contact: Maureen Ryan

Saint Basil Academy School Store Manager 215-885-3771 ext. 28 • mryan@stbasilacademy.org

THANK YOU of your support of our school!

School Store Hours Monday, Wednesday, Friday ~ 8:30am-3pm

PAWPRINTSSCHOOL STORE

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SAINT BASIL ACADEMY

STAY CONNECTED TO SBAVisit us using Social Media to stay connected with SBA and other alum.

Mark your calendar for these exciting events!

For more information, please contact Kathy Bieker at kbieker@stbasilacademy.org

Thursday, December 18th Alum Day at SBA Basketball Game vs. Nazareth JV @ 3:45PM | Varsity @ 5:15PM Social after Varsity Game in the Cafeteria

Sunday, April 12th Grand Reunion at Knowlton Mansion

Date to be AnnouncedBasil’s by the Bay at Flip Flopz in North Wildwood, NJ

Upcoming Alumnae Events

A Return Home to SBA

There must be something in the water at SBA because a record number of Alumnae have returned home to their Alma Mater serving in various roles throughout the school community. Along with these women, a number of other alum had already been on staff for quite some time. The most current total of alum is 10!!! Within the teaching staff, you will find: Sr. Carla Hernández, OSBM, Sr. Susanne Matwiyiw, OSBM, Eileen Schweyer ‘75, Theresa (Haviland) Dillinger ‘77, Jen (Schmitt) Clemente ‘94, and Kimberley O’Brien ’05. Serving in administrative positions are: Sr. Dolores Orzel, OSBM, Alexandra (Rudyj) Penkalskyj ‘80, Kim (Packard) Szypula ’92. Last, but not least, Karen (Poehlman) O’Brien ‘87, is serving as one of our school nurses. What a tribute to the community of Saint Basil Academy having all of these former Basil Girls return!

It’s A New Day at SBA! So please share with us what is NEW with you! Did you change careers? Get married? Have a baby? Receive a degree? Have you moved? We would LOVE to know what is going on with you, our dear Alumnae. Email us with any updated information or news you would like to share at development@stbasilacademy.org.

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S BA

Basil Girls are regularly involved with service projects based within school and throughout the community. This year, the girls are very excited about the inception of our new service organization, SBA Cares. There are lots of projects planned for students, faculty, staff, and alumnae. Check out some of these upcoming endeavors, and if you would like to participate, send an email to Mrs. Emily Kleinle at edomineske@stbasilacademy.org. The more SBA members joining in, the more people in need can be helped. Let’s show the world how SBA Cares!

The SBA Cares group already started off this year of service with a trip to the Ronald McDonald House in October. Our students and staff helped to prepare and serve dinner for the families residing there. More importantly, they enjoyed interacting with these families who gain some much needed rest at the House along with a time to refresh from the illnesses they are fighting each day. How very appropriate that the Ronald McDonald House refers to itself as “a home away from home,” just as so many of us refer to our beloved SBA!

SBA Cares• November 2nd

Ronald McDonald House Breakfast at 3925 Chestnut Street

• November 2nd Free to Breathe Walk for Lung Cancer at Memorial Hall in Fairmont Park 8AM ~ Join Mrs. Bieker’s Basil team

• Week of November 17th Sister Germaine’s Blanket Collection of new or gently used blankets

• November 19th, 20th, & 22nd Breathing Room Thanksgiving Food Basket Collection at Immaculate Conception School Hall http://breathingroomfoundation.org/

• December 1st through 5th Toys for Tots Collection at the Academy organized by Sr. Therese

• December 7th Face-to-Face in Germantown where we will be serving lunch to people who are struggling http://facetofacegermantown.org/

• January 9th & January 30th School-wide service endeavors going on at the SBA

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HkAS5YwhGr4&noredirect=1

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ANNUAL

Annual Fund: List of DonorsThe Office of Institutional Advancement extends its thanks and gratitude to the many generous donors who made the 2013-2014 Annual Giving Campaign a success. The continued support of our alumnae and friends will help ensure a bright future for our school. The Annual Giving Campaign raised $47,594.55. Thank you to everyone who participated.

Legacy Society Gifts from $5,000+Diane and Richard Welsh

Founders’ Society Gifts from $2,500 up to $4,999.99Jessica HulseboschDavid and Angela BauerJohn and Kathleen Depman

Principal’s Society Gifts from $1,000 up to $2,499.99Christopher and Cathyann CalabreseFrances BoccellaHelena MazurDonna WilsonRobert CrossinIreena McNabb The Class of 1984 in Memory of Meg Hines Robert and Patricia Lima

Pillar Society Gifts from $500 up to $999.99Christine DeCesareHelen ChaykowskyLydia GifflerMaureen PondChrystyna SarachmanMargaret ShewbrooksRobert O'HaraJane O'HaraRichard and Maureen O’HaraEdward KicakSharon IngramBrian and Elizabeth McMeartyAnne and Gerald McGoldrickJim and Margaret Mancini

Panther Society Gifts from $250 up to $499.99Karen PierangeliKathleen CooneyEileen WeldonStephen and Kathleen SpillerSeanna BrunoFrances DeVincentClaire DonohueJudith GobeilleKathleen Joyce-Kutufaris

Alaina McAuliffeMarianne MurphyKathie WilliamsNatalie WojnarMarta ZahalakCamille McCreavyPantelis AthanasiadisGlen AngusNazareth Hospital – Patient Access Staff

Century Society Gifts from $100 up to $249.99Joyce MaguireKathryn Quigley Tara SwartzBridget BlakelySister Dolores Orzel, OSBMStephanie MattiaceJoan SeiberlichChristine MekoBarbara DeSanctisKathleen BiekerJane DeSilverioMichael and Nancy GriffinMargaret BellSusan BilottaKelly BrennanKathryn ComperatoreMaryellen DoyleRosemarie DriverMarian GoldhaberDaria GuentherJoan KingCatherine KozenJoan LevesqueKaren RocushSuzanne McKennaKatherine McMahonKatherine NoblesKate McGuiganConstance PincusBarbara PlummerMargaret SchubertChristina Van DoornJoan WardDenise WrightMary YaremkoOlenka ZajacDolores Zimmerman

Hugh McGovernJohn WrightMary Ellen WayWilliam BrennanRobert GraveleyJohn O'DonnellChristopher BilottaThomas GassHoward and Maureen BarrettMary HarbisonDonna JoyceGregory LingoStephen BurnsPatricia BrabsonKaren StevensonTara Walsh PhelanGeorge and Eileen WettonLisa WorthingtonElizabeth and Russell JonesCatherine O’Shea

DONOR SOCIETY Gifts up to $99.99Peter StamatopoulosLydia BerrySusan CiufoJennifer CostanzoJulia EllisBarbara GolaDiane GrantKorinne HalperCatherine HallHollie HavensSr. Carla Hernández, OSBMKaren HuckelJulia MaksymchukAngela FranchiRosemary MebusSusan MedinaJoan MullaneyPatricia O'BrienLaura ShinnMary Ann SmithChristine TorbanLinda and Robert PowersJanet ScanlonWilliam WisotzkeyBrian ScanlonNatalie RudyjJohn and Lori Rodgers

Donna DonahueEdward DuffFrancis StaradumskyEllen McGuinnEmellia ProkopikKatelyn CoughlinUrsula SulockMary CarrollBarbara BensenDonna GoepfrichCheryl HessonHeidi HoloweckyjChristine KerriganRosemary KochanowiczChristy LambDesiree LillColleen BilesClaire MelnykPatricia MooneyMatilda PolitskyAlison RifeKate RosenbergerJeanne SingerGina TobinEvelyn WoodringGunta PlostnieksEileen SchweyerIvan KaszczakRita TalleyGregory GreenbergFrank PalazzoWalter AlcottJoseph CarrelloJanet GetzMegan GreenbergMargaret GuckinOlympia JoyceTracey RayPeter MaydanisJohn BonnerSiobhan O'KeefeCatherine IaconianniWilliam BlackSr. Bohdonna Podney, OSBMJoseph SheaCarmel Rose CrutcherJoseph ManeroJean WaeringFrank Lawson

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SAVE THE DATE

Saturday, March 7, 2015Philmont Country Club

6:30 to 10:30 PM

ANNUAL

SPONSORS Beneficial BankLima CompanyLa Salle College High SchoolSisters of the Order of Saint Basil the GreatTantala Associates, LLCStradley Ronon, Attorneys at LawPond LehockyDavid & Angela BauerDiane Costanzo

DONORS/ADS Abbie Jones Abington Hospital Dixon School of NursingAdventure Aquarium Aileen Napierkowski Allen S. Ruane, DDS PC Anne Haughton Antique Belleek Vase Arcadia University Arcadia University Bar Kay Jewelers Bill and Jenny Barnett Blake's Florist Bristol Riverside Theater Brunswick Zone Bryn Athyn College Buckingham Valley Vineyard Cabrini College Camille McCreavy Cannstatter Volksfest-Verein Cav's Catering Cedar Crest College Chestnut Hill College Christopher J. Bilotta, CPRW Clarion University College of Notre Dame Maryland Concordia University Conrad the Florist Crescent Vending D'Agostino Carpet of Ambler Delaware Valley College Dillinger Family Dougherty Family Douglas Family Dr. Patricia Pace Dress Up Time East Stroudsburg University Elizabethtown College

Ernest Bock & Sons, Inc. Father Daniel Troyan Fleck Family Flynn & O'Hara Fran Phillips Franklin & Marshall College Fraternal Order of Police, Lodge #5 Freshman Volleyball Team Gallo's Seafood Gary Charles Hair Salon Georgian Court University Glen Angus Grant Family Gwynedd Mercy University Haney Family Heathland Hospitality Group Herff Jones Holy Family University Iaconianni Family Immaculata University Indiana University of Pennsylvania Insight Promotional Marketing International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 542 Ithaca College Gift James Madison University James T. Moore, MD, FACS Jody Gain Joe Macchione John F. Kurey, Esq., MBA Jones Apparel Joseph Gurcsik Studios Judge Family Kampus Klothes Kevin from Heaven Kings College KJ Hansen Graphic Print Services Kleinle Family Knoebels Amusement Park Kozmic Kritters KPMG, LLP La Salle University Lebanon Valley College Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs Linda Powers Lisa Brennan Local 22 Philadelphia Firefighters

Longwood Gardens Luque Family Lutz Contracting Mandarin Garden Manor College Marriott Mary Baldwin College McCreavy Family McMearty Family Melissa Norman Misericordia University Monmouth University Morey's Pier Mr. Mingacci's Homeroom Mrs. Dougherty's Homeroom Mrs. Kenny's Homeroom Mrs. Kleine's Homeroom Mrs. Meko's Homeroom Mrs. Towernicki's Homeroom Mrs. Chang's Homeroom Mrs. Fina's Homeroom Mrs. Keating's Homeroom Mrs. Norman's Homeroom Mt. Olympus House Cleaning Muhlenberg College National Constitution Center National Liberty Museum Neumann University Norman's Hallmark Northwestern University Nu-Look Cleaning Services Oskar Huber Furniture & Design Pamela and Nathan Vasserman Patricia Brabson Patricia M. Andris (New York Life) Personalized Fitness Pesaykov Family Phil's Family Shoes Philadelphia Chamber Music Society Philmont Country Club Plunkett Family Poinsettia Dry Cleaners Reading Phillies Rodgers Family S.T.O. Auto Parts, Inc. Sand Castle Winery Sawyer Construction Company, Inc.

SBA Athletic Department SBA Counseling Office SBA Development Office SBA Drama Club SBA Paw Prints Bookstore Schenk's Bakery Sean and Sandy McGrath Seton Hall University Shady Maple Farm Market Sharon Ingram Shippensburg University Shirley & Co. Sister Dolores Orzel, OSBM & Jessica Hulsebosch '49 Sister Germaine Senita, OSBM Sister Maria Rozmarynowycz, OSBM Sister Rita's Homeroom SkinCeuticals Skincare Sophomore Volleyball Spiller Family Sr. Therese's Homeroom St. Joseph's Prep Station Pizza Steven D. Bunting, DDS Sugar House Casino Susan Bilotta Szott Family The Bag Lady The College of New Jersey Theresa Hartey TNT Amusements Inc. Townscapes, INC. Travel For Teens Trenton Thunder Tulane University U-Swirl Jenkintown UBS Ukrainian Selfreliance Federal Credit Union University of Buffalo University of Connecticut University of Dayton University of Memphis University of Scranton Varsity Volleyball Team Velvet Sky Bakery Verve Hair Gallery Waterworks Restaurant White Elephant William R. May Funeral Home Willits Road Pharmacy Yo Fresh Jenkintown

The Office of Institutional Advancement extends its thanks and gratitude to the sponsors and donors who made the 2014 Pawction a success.

SAVE THE DATE

Saturday, March 7, 2015Philmont Country Club

6:30 to 10:30 PM

For tickets, ads, & sponsorship information log on to http://pawction2015.eventbrite.com

For information on donations or volunteering contact us at Pawction@stbasilacademy.org or (215) 885 ~ 3771 ext. 31

Saint Basil Academy711 Fox Chase RoadJenkintown, PA 19046

Non-Profit OrganizationU.S.Postage

PAIDJenkintown, PAPermit No. 31

"The heart of our educational goal has become critical thinking, synthesis, analysis and integration. This enables

our students to be far better prepared going into colleges, universities and the world."

— Gwenda Coté, Principal

FALL PLAY November 21-22, 2014

7PM

SPIRIT DAY November 26, 2014

9AM ~ 12PM

CHRISTMAS CONCERT December 10, 2014

7PM

NIGHT AT THE RACES January 24, 2015

PAWCTION March 7, 2015

6:30PM ~ 10:30PM

GRAND REUNION April 12, 2015

SaveT H E DAT E