A Publication of the Nazareth academy Community

SPRING 2011

IN thIS ISSue:

Nazareth Globetrotter

Changing the World

Niches in My Heart

You Can Run but . . .

FORE

F.I.S.H. ing for the Future

Serving Our Fundamental Pillar

The World Comes to Nazareth

Where liveS change to change the WorlD

Blueprint

Nazareth Academy, sponsored by the Congregation of St. Joseph, is a Catholic, coed, college preparatory

high school dedicated to living Jesus’ mission of unity and committed to

educating the whole person.

1209 W. Ogden Avenue LaGrange Park, Illinois 60526 Phone: 708-354-0061 Fax: 708-354-0109 www.nazarethacademy.com

President: Mr. Dennis Moran

Principal: Ms. Deborah Vondrasek

Vice President of Institutional Advancement: Mr. Bob Dixon

Academic Dean: Sr. Terry Middendorf, CSJ

Director of Curriculum and Instruction: Mrs. Karen Brown

Director of Finance: Mrs. Mary Callaghan

Dean of Students: Mr. Tim Racki

Editor: Mrs. Cecilia Thunander

Graphic Design and Print: PGI Marketing & Communications

Please direct comments to: cthunander@nazarethacademy.com

View Blueprint online at: www.nazarethacademy.com/blueprint.pdf

Contact the editor to help stop duplicate and undeliverable mail by updating addresses. Your help is appreciated.

Alumni can stay informed of Nazareth Academy news and events, reconnect with classmates, post personal updated information, list job opportunities, post resumes and receive the latest eBlast news by registering online. Alumni can immediately access the online community at www.nazarethacademyalumni.org. ID numbers or a reminder of user names and passwords can be obtained from the alumni office. Stay connected and check us out!

a letter from the preSiDent anD principal

We talk an awful lot about values. After all, they are at the core of what we do. However, we’d like to, for just a moment, talk about “value added.” The environment in which Nazareth Academy now thrives demands our attention. In many ways, as Sr. Constance Kraul, CSJ, ’32 recently said, “We are counter cultural.” That doesn’t change things, but certainly gives us focus. We are compelled, then, to add value in everything we do. So what makes us different? From where does this “value added” come? Why do we do what we do? The answers are all around, and this issue of BLUEPRINT provides real insights into a sampling of what, we are sure, is par for the course among the Nazareth family wherever it may be. You can’t help but notice, just to our left, the photo of two of the many students in whom we share great pride. Lourdes and Matt worked hard, have grand plans, and their stories are about to unfold. We can’t wait to see where they will take us. They will change the world even as we have changed theirs. Inside you will read of a doctor heeding the Gospel call to bring the children to Jesus. You will be touched by the work of one of our globetrotting grads. You will be challenged by the call to service through our Alumni Association and our friend Sr. Jackie Schmitz, CSJ. You will be amazed by the technology successes of one of our recent grads. And, of course, you will be thrilled by the engaging witness of one of our faculty and the “new additions” to both her family and the Nazareth family. There is certainly a place in this world for Nazareth. We firmly believe that. We have since 1900. The value added by a place grounded in Scholarship, Service, Spirit, and Unity brings change to the lives of the young and they in turn change the world. A greater mission we cannot find!

DeNNIS MoRAN President

DeboRAh VoNDRASek Principal Class of 1982

Dennis MoranPresident

Deborah VondrasekPrincipal

pg / 3

The Foreign Service is, well, foreign to most of us. Even in today’s connected world where Skype, Facebook and Google have linked all parts of the globe, we still marvel and wonder what’s really out there. Imagine what went through the mind of a young Nancy Tumavick ’64, in those days in Cicero, Illinois when she first received post cards from an uncle who traveled the world for his job. Today, Nancy too can say she has traveled the world. Her resume boasts 40 years of experience in complex program, policy and management positions in the development field, most of those 40 years with the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). She has lived and worked in Southeast Asia, South Asia, North Africa and West Africa. And although Nancy retired from USAID in 1995, her generous experi-ence allowed her to remain as a consultant. As a Foreign Service Officer for USAID, Nancy provided non-military assistance to a wide range of sectors including education and human resources, agriculture and rural development and engineering projects. “In one country I would be in charge of the engineers and then in another country, helping teachers design curriculum. My job was all encompassing and each country had its own complex development issues, which made it so exciting.” This vast range of ability has carried over to her private sector career as a consultant and been a strong catalyst between govern-ment and global corporations. Working with IBM to identify innovative offerings relevant to development assistance needs, Nancy became involved in supply chain management, work-force development and e-governance. Focused on Pakistan the last few years, Nancy has facilitated national teacher training and higher education programs, and rural devel-opment programs in the treacherous tribal areas adjoining Afghanistan.

So one might ask . . . how does a Nazareth graduate influence the world so profoundly? “Nazareth set the stage for me by expecting excellence and gave me the confidence to be the woman I am today,” said Nancy in a recent interview. She credits teachers like Sr. Miriam Rose (voice and religion) and Sr. Ethna Maria (Piano Repertoire) for encouraging perfec-tion. While Nancy was a diligent student and possessed a strong work ethic, it was participating in the Nazareth community that broadened her horizons and stretched her dreams. After high school, Nancy charted her future with a BS in Economics from the School of Commerce at St. Louis University and received a MS in Development Econom-ics from Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University. One of her professors at Tufts, Dr. Robert Meagher, guided her into Foreign Service with one warning . . . “You have to understand, Foreign Service is not only a job, it is a life style that will change your life . . . you will never want to return to the U.S.”

After traveling to 45 countries and taking up residence in Thailand (six years), Liberia (three years), Indonesia (four years), Tunisia (four years), and Pakistan (three years), Nancy did return to the U.S. and now lives in McLean, Virginia with her husband Gary Waxmonsky. Funny thing though . . . she traveled the world, but married the boy next door. Gary was born and raised on the south side of Chicago! Nancy has two daughters, Alexandra, a linguist who studied at Oxford University and works for the U.S. government and Victoria who works for a literary agency in New York City specializing in non-fictional writing. Some at her age are working toward retirement; Nancy, however, is working toward her second retirement. More than likely, it will be filled with foreign travel; for once you’ve changed the world, it’s difficult to stop. Just ask Nancy!

Nazareth’s Own Globetrotternancy tumavick

‘64

Nancy Tumavick in 1964, as a student,

experiments with an intricate balance of

unbalanced torques. To the right, Nancy at home

in McLean, Virginia.

pg / 4

Imagine keeping up with a teen’s schedule, being available on demand, helping them choose a college, interpret performance on tests and then be their sounding board when they have issues with friends, school, and just the day to day of being a teen. WAIT . . . you were thinking this was going to be about the exactitude of parenting. Now think of doing all this for 820 teens. Welcome to the Nazareth Guidance Department. A team of eight with 101 years’ experience at Nazareth, these professionals read into our students’ hearts and souls with compassion, joy and insight, guiding them through “the stuff of life.” They provide an environment slow to judge yet prepared to react strongly when needed. “On any given week, we can have 168 students come through our doors,” said Carlene Kaps, Guidance Secretary and the first-face of the department. “When I go to a conference, I realize our kids are no different than other teens . . . however Nazareth makes a difference in our students’ lives because they are safe . . . and because they are safe and secure, they can learn and focus on other issues,” said Kathy Gurney, Director of the Guidance Department. The women and men of the Nazareth Guidance Department underscore that safety, integrating their efforts with Campus Ministry and the Dean’s Office with one common thread: no Nazareth student will fall through the cracks. This support system helps assist students with tools to navigate through their adolescent years, forming a foundation for them to be healthy adults. Identifying unique gifts inher-ent in each student while matching them to a promising future can only lead to success. “Our students are awesome,” said Jen Sheehan, “filled with great aspirations and dreams, and it is an honor to be in their path.” The commitment these advisors have with our students travels beyond graduation and can be a long term relationship. “We are often invited to different types of ceremonies, like Eagle Scout, Quinceañera, college graduations and weddings.” When violence struck the Northern Illinois University campus in February of 2008, our counselors called every Nazareth graduate attending NIU at the time, asking how they were coping and offering assistance. The Director

of Admissions from NIU personally called Mrs. Gurney to commend her department for this compassionate outreach and support. As a group, the Guidance Department is a cohesive team where individual strengths abound in jobs with multiple layers. Counselors meet each student four to six times a year assisting in their adjustment to high school. Another level of care offers support groups, monitors academic progress, challenges course loads, assesses standardized tests and prepares students for the college application process.

The college process starts in junior year with the Spring College Seminar Series, offering eight evenings to deliver insight into a wide variety of colleges from traditional to highly selective. In the summer prior to senior year, each student meets individually with their college advisor to create a personalized plan for applying to college. The Naviance Program, relatively new to the department, tracks acceptances and aids our students in their search. Guidance takes the anxiety out of the application process and positions seniors ready to go when the “application shoot” opens in August. Nazareth Academy is a college-prep school, but much more. These professionals bring not only expertise in “getting into college,” but

also passion and know-how about living the virtuous life centered in the Gospels. For these women and men, this is not some value-added proposition but their way of life. And every Nazareth student comes to know this through encounters with each of these persons. The second floor of “O” building, where guidance meets, breeds trust. Dedicated co-workers model happiness and strive to share a lighter side of life with students. Rarely do their days go as scheduled, making spontaneity a vital trait. With that comes a very serious commitment to walk alongside parents. Together they watch young women and men grow from childhood to young adulthood, having changed in ways they feel confident will allow them to change the world.

Guiding Our Students...Changing the World‘64

The Guidance Department left to right (back row) Kevin Milos, Carlene Kaps,

Brendan Green (2002), Lori Scelsi and Jacob Heilicser (front row) Melissa Byram (2001),

Kathy Gurney (1969), and Jennifer Sheehan.

“our students are awesome,” said

Jen Sheehan, “filled with great aspirations

and dreams, and it is an honor to be in

their path.”

pg / 5

You Can Run but You Cannot Hide

Niches in My Heart

robert Donat

Dr. maria Jevitz patterSon

It is always important to have a leg up on your competition and Robert Donat ‘87, founder and Chief Executive Officer of GPS Insight delivers that advantage to his clients. When Rob and his family moved to Arizona six years ago, a friend asked for help in an area of technology in which Rob was keenly cognizant. And the pièce de résistance . . . the industry was filled with opportunity and little competition. That is how Rob positioned his company to be the leader in the industry and the only GPS tracking firm to make the INC 500 list in 2010. Clients include the

Ralph Waldo Emerson states “Success is . . . to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children.” Dr. Maria Jevitz Patterson ’62 has done just that as Professor Emerita in the departments of Microbiology/Molecular Genetics and Pediatrics at Michigan State University. She has made great strides in the area of infectious disease and changed how the Lansing, Michigan area deals with AIDS by opening a clinic

that provides multifaceted comprehensive care to patients, particularly the mother/infant dyad. “Many times in my life, I have had to explain how I got from here to there . . . Nazareth was the foundation . . . helping me appreciate the subtle nuances of knowing myself,” said Dr. Patterson from her home in East Lansing, Michigan. Teachers like Sr. Maureen Therese (Latin), Miss Marilyn Flaherty (Math) and Sr. Antoinette (Health) were dynamos that groomed and impacted her career. It is these faculty members along with the Sisters at the College of St. Francis that gave her the faith to find and believe in what was inside her. “We were encouraged to achieve whatever we set our minds to and the Nazareth community strengthened our

efforts.” Dr. Patterson was in the college prep track while at Nazareth and experiences like Alexine (yearbook) and the operettas brought richness to her life. This culture gave her the mechanics to blossom and take her place in the world, a common theme for Nazareth, especially in educating the whole person. Dr. Patterson received a BSMT at the College of St. Francis, PhD at Northwestern University Medical School, her MD at Michigan State University and did fellowships in clinical microbiology at the University of Washington and infectious diseases at the University of Massachusetts, with board certification in Pediatric Infectious Disease. A compassionate physician and dedicated teacher, Dr. Patterson has authored more than 50 publications and given a myriad of presentations in her field of expertise. In 2008 she received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Lansing Area AIDS Network in recognition of her scientific knowledge and clinical care. In addition to this prestigious award she has received more than 20 honorary and professional accolades. When asked who has impacted her life, Dr. Patterson states “My patients . . . when dealing with children, you always receive more than you give. My patients have left niches in my heart.” Ralph Waldo Emerson continues . . . “To leave the world a little better whether by a healthy child . . . to know even one life has breathed easier . . . this is the meaning of success.”

State of Oklahoma, the city of San Francisco, EMCOR, Ahern Rental Company, Wright Tree Service and Universal Studios. Rob holds a Bachelor of Science in Finance from the University of Illinois, and Master degrees in Finance and Computer Science from DePaul University. He has worked for hedge funds and dot coms but was first introduced to GPS technology 14 years ago while serving in the army as an artillery officer. GPS Insight is headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona and employs 37 people

in three locations across the country. They sell global positioning system devices to follow fleet vehicles and track them with web-based software. Imagine knowing exactly where your company vehicle is, what speed it is going and having the ability to react quickly to dangers. For example, if your company had ten trucks in the field and a customer needed immediate help, you could track your fleet, contact an operator closest

‘62

pg / 6

in proximity to the customer and dispatch help where time is of the essence . . . all with the help of a simple device and some proprietary software. This prodigious solution provides real time assistance to customers and clearly changes the landscape of global fleet transportation services. As a teen, Rob never dreamed he would be keeping track of over 20,000 vehicles. He and his single mother lived in a small apartment in Broadview, where attending Nazareth was almost beyond reach. Following his best friend to Nazareth allowed him the

opportunity to excel. He was astutely aware of wanting a better life and his aggressive work ethic, a gift from his Mom, helped him succeed. Teachers like Mrs. Cain, Mr. Michalek, Sr. Ellen Springer and Mrs. Ryan taught Rob to be an efficient student enabling him to work after school. “Sr. Ellen was full of life and dedicated to helping her students. I took elective physics in college as a business major because she sparked such an interest for me.” Friends were an important part of life while at Nazareth and as a self-professed

band geek, Rob had a diverse group of friends pooled from honors classes, band, and lunch. “Friendship opportunities were endless because you knew more than 80% of your classmates. I could hang out with football players at lunch and practice after school with my band friends.” Rob and his wife Kristen have three children and live in Arizona. However, if they lived in the Chicago area, their children would definitely be attending Nazareth. Now that is wishful global positioning!

Nazareth gave me enough of an arsenal to excel and by the time I arrived at college, I had a plethora of tools to get me through the university of Illinois business school. high school was an incubator, challenging and preparing me for my future,” Rob said in a recent interview.

“

‘87

Dr. Patterson with one of her patients (picture courtesy College of Osteopathic Medicine, Michigan State University)

pg / 7

Chick Evans has changed well over 9,000 lives by offering deserving caddies a scholarship to one of 18 universities across the United States. This year two of our seniors, Lourdes Espinoza and Matthew Radford, are among thirty-eight 2011 Illinois Evans Scholars. They will attend the University of Illinois and Indiana University, respectively. The Western Golf Association states “they have earned scholarships valued at $70,000” and will join the Evan Scholarship Program that was set up by a man who “outdistanced his achievements as a champion golfer by setting up this fund in 1930.” Lourdes and Matt hit a “hole in one” with regards to their future. This program involves a comprehensive selection process based on academic achievement, caddie records, character and financial need. The dedication to their respective golf clubs and strong work ethic paid off through the evaluation that included well over 1,000 applicants. We are proud of their accomplishments. Lourdes is a caddy at Glen Oak Country Club. As a Daniel Murphy Scholarship recipient at Nazareth, she is steadfast in her studies and involved in Spanish Club, Student Council, Youth Initiative, ASPIRE, National Honor Society and National English Honor Society. “It is her discipline and strong work ethic that awarded her this chance and I know she will do very well in life,” said Mayno Luetkenhans, her Caddie Master at Glen Oak. Lourdes is a first generation American

citizen (both parents were born in Mexico). “While we don’t live in luxury, I have everything I need but my parents always wanted a better life for me – it was up to me to figure out how to pay for college.” Lourdes hopes one day to be a civil engineer where she can work to improve the ecosystem. Matt has caddied for six years at Butterfield Country Club and feels caddying “has changed his life . . . as a caddy, I have learned to set goals and be patient.” James Reilly a WGA Director said, “Matt is a diligent, respectful, hard working person that exemplifies the Evan’s Scholar.” A dedicated student, Matt is proud to follow in his grandmother’s (Mary Shea Knowles ‘52) tradition by attending a high school that provides so many opportunities. Matt is a member of the Golf and Baseball Teams, Liturgy Prep Committee, Roadrunner Club, National English Honor Society, as well as a Kairos Leader, Eucharistic Minister, and math tutor. He is also involved in Relay for Life and The Hinsdale Junior Board. At Indiana University he will major in exercise science and hopes that he can change the world by helping people stay healthy and focus on achieving their personal goals. FORE is shouted in golf as a warning for an errant shot. When we hear these words on the links, one usually ducks and runs for cover! However, in Lourdes and Matt case we say FORE . . . keep an eye on them . . . they are on a championship course that will change the world!

fore!‘ 11mattheW raDforD

& lourDeS eSpinoza

pg / 8

‘ 11

F.I.S.H. ing for the FUTURE!

Business meetings and budgets, these words may not be emblematic of a typical high school junior or senior, but for me it was all part of my daily routine. I am the leader of a service group called F.I.S.H. at Nazareth. F.I.S.H. is an acronym for Friends in Service and Hospitality; and an opportunity for our sophomores and juniors to engender a relationship with people with disabilities and develop an understanding of mental health conditions/diagnosis. That’s how I got started; I was a 15 year old sophomore looking for a service opportunity, and I found F.I.S.H . . . this is also how I started my “business career.” However, as soon as I started my career . . . I learned the program (started in 2001) was in jeopardy of failure. Like any business, a “redesign” is sometimes necessary to sustain its viability. That is precisely what the F.I.S.H. program did this year. Working with a group called ASPIRE, I attend staff meet-ings with their employees; create a potential calendar of events, and generate a budget. Through a service opportunity – Peace Builders – which I attended the summer of my junior year, I was granted $250 to spend on a peace project. I used this money to buy crafts, cooking supplies, and cosmetics so our students could interact when we went to the residential houses. The F.I.S.H. program has a new face and a new partnership, but the same overall purpose – to make a difference. F.I.S.H. is a philanthropic business. I have the opportunity to create a world in which people with disabilities receive the attention they deserve, and this is my ultimate compensation. My staff (about 15 other Nazareth students) and I use our love for helping and serving others to create a world that is better for everyone. F.I.S.H has changed my life. It allowed me to find a great joy in helping those with disabilities. The residents of ASPIRE, although challenged, are perhaps the sweetest and most jovial people and my impetus to be a better person. They are always there to ask how my week went, share stories and question me about my future. Spending time with the residents every week, coloring, baking or carving pumpkins, is a great reward. I hope to take their lessons of kindness and joy and make the world just a tiny bit better. My experience with F.I.S.H. has helped me realize my potential, mature into a confident adult, and be strong in predicaments. One day when I enter the real business world I will be able to use the lessons of business and friendship to guide me to a future full of success and determination. Business successes are inconsistent . . . companies go through recessions and booms all the time. It is the successful ones that rise above those troublesome times and create a sustainable business. Regardless of whether or not my “business” was a boom or a bust, the lessons and personal rewards gained through it far surpass any struggles.

Jennifer Smigielski is the Valedictorian of the class of 2011 and will be attending the University of Illinois, School of Business in the fall. She is Senior Class President; editor-in-chief of the Nazareth newspaper, The Announcer, on the Board of Governors for Roadrunner Club, a member of the National Honor Society, Youth Initiative, school band, and Math Club.

“

By: Jennifer Smigielski

Julie A. GiesASPIRE Volunteer & Outreach Coordinator

pg / 9

Jennifer Smigielski with an ASPIRE home resident cleaning the kitchen after making cookies one recent Saturday morning.

I have been impressed with the engaging spirit of the Nazareth students. They have enriched the lives of our children and adults with developmental disabilities, by sharing their energy, talents and smiles. We are fortunate to have them as part of our “ASPIRE team”.

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‘72

SERVICE is one of our fundamental pillars at Nazareth and some-thing we embrace enthusiastically. Past issues of Blueprint mention many references to how we live out this mission by Circling the City, Relaying for Life, F.I.S.H.ing for Aspire, building for Solsberry Hill, ringing Salvation Army bells and numerous other worthy causes. This piece tells a similar story . . . how after graduation, we remain loyal to this promise in an organization called the Nazareth Alumni Volunteer Service Corps. Debbie Soldato ‘72 and Mary Lou Soldato ‘72 are spearheading this newly formed group which encourages a chance to reconnect with friends. With a strong assemblage of alums, the school’s mission is robustly breathing life into two projects.

1. Mission Outreach – a group that gathers in September, January, February and April. The group meets on a designated Saturday to help sort and pack donated hospital equipment that is shipped to underserved hospitals in Third World Countries. Debbie’s response to why this project was chosen? “The organization has a real heart for service and Paulette Scaman Kernan ‘58 directed us to their operation.” The next Mission Outreach project is Saturday, April 9, 2011 from 9 a.m. until noon.

2. ABLE Families (Affirming, Believing, Learning and Empowering) – an outreach program departing from Nazareth on June 20 and returning June 25. This opportunity is offered as a result of our own graduate, Sr. Patricia Ann Murray ‘80, a Franciscan Sister who is the Program Director for ABLE Families, a CSJ sponsored ministry in Kermit, West Virginia. ABLE Families empowers impoverished families in the rural Tug Valley to gain more control of their lives.

The trip welcomes up to 15 adult volunteers to work in a variety of jobs, from painting and repairing to clean-up for local residents. The Nazareth Alumni Service Corps will gather names until April 15. If you are unable to participate in this trip but would like to give financial support, please contact Debbie.

The Nazareth community is making a positive difference in people’s lives and developing a sense of responsibility and leadership. As the Service Corps leads us to strengthen the faith and commitment to others we can become the catalyst for positive change in the world. For more information about volunteering for these projects, please contact Debbie Soldato at dsoldato@comcast.net or (312) 590-2997.

Debbie SolDato

A Challenge

Serving our Fundamental Pillar

them to appointments. It doesn’t matter . . . and it really matters, all at the same time.

So, add up your hours. I bet you’d be surprised. In the end, when we all do it, 100,000 hours will not take that long. If each of us volunteers ten hours this year, we will make our goal AND make a huge difference.

Let us know what you are doing and how many hours you do so by emailing nazarethserves@nazarethacademy.com We’ll let you know just how we are all doing.

And, we’d like to report at this year’s October Nazareth Homecoming and Reunion that our graduates – YOU – have volunteered at least 100,000 hours of service wherever you are.

Think about it. You coach a ball team or mentor a Girl Scout troop. You serve your parish as an Eucharistic minister or religious ed teacher. You cut your neighbor’s lawn or drive

You may have heard that Nazareth Academy students annually accumu-late over 10,000 hours of service in local and far-reaching places. The Nazareth Alumni Association would like to take them on! Here’s how, and it’s easy.

Many of us spend time volunteering and don’t even take time to notice. Well, we’d like you to begin to do so.

100,000 hours by reunion!

Nothing to it, so get going!

Debbie Soldato (left) working with alums at Mission Outreach.

pg / 10

‘72 Not only did we write papers, read volumes of books, and struggle through Chemistry, Trig and Physics, deeper learning was in process. We had teachers who urged us to be critical thinkers, to expand our suburban mentality and wake up to the bigger world around us. One CSJ used to ship us off at 7:00 am to the inner city to experience “real poverty.” Little did I realize that those trips and other significant teachings would be the seed for change that was to come. Fast forward several years, upon comple-tion of my college education and Novitiate training, and I find myself back at Nazareth Academy as a teacher. Those were years when I was taken down pathways never anticipated. I spent 35 years at Nazareth Academy and managed about eight different titles during that time. Those years were fun, challenging and called me to open my heart to new terri-tories. I learned from my days at Nazareth as student, teacher and administrator to develop

a heart that is generous. The Sisters of St. Joseph have always urged us to respond to those around us and serve the “dear neighbor.” Almost two years ago, I found myself discerning an invitation to move from my comfort zone into something totally new. I was asked to move to New Orleans to direct a new endeavor of the Sisters of St Joseph – the St. Joseph Worker Program. Having never lived anywhere but Chicago and the suburbs, this was a big stretch for me and not an easy decision. I was happy at Nazareth, but also knew it was time to think about making some changes in my life, widening my heart. And so I did. The city of New Orleans was devastated in 2005 by Hurricane Katrina. There were no homes, no schools, no grocery stores, no phone lines, no streets – NOTHING. People had to leave everything behind not knowing where they would go and when, if ever, they would return. I had no idea what I would encounter coming to New Orleans. And what an eye opener it has been. I know now, more than ever, that I live a privileged life. I have never been hungry for very long, been without a place to call home, unable to complete my education, or been harassed by police. We graduates of Nazareth Academy are very fortunate. Besides a wonderful edu-cation our gifts were nurtured and we were transformed in many ways.

I believe most people want to do some-thing that matters, to be a part of something bigger than themselves. The St. Joseph Worker Program provides that opportunity for young women. It is a year-long volunteer experience providing direct service to the community. As I work alongside the women, I often think of my days at Nazareth and the many times I witnessed such generosity. Being present to those who are in need, shar-ing what we can to better their lives, and, at the same time, our own. During my short time here in New Orleans, I have witnessed the resilience of these people, sampled the beauty of jazz and the food and witnessed deep determination to continue to emerge from a very dark place. God has gathered up the chaos and has begun to create again.

I am extremely grateful to Nazareth Academy and the Sisters of St. Joseph for challenging me to widen my heart and embrace the world around me. Let us keep seeing, keep paying attention to the stirrings in our hearts, and remain open to the invitations along the way. Wherever we find ourselves may we carry the words of Buddah within: “A generous heart, kind speech, and a life of service and compassion are the things which renew humanity.” For more information about volunteering for the St. Joseph Worker Program, please contact Sr. Jackie at jschmitz@csjoseph.org.

‘64Just about 47 years ago, I walked down the aisle to “Pomp and Circumstance” as a graduate of Nazareth Academy. those were memorable years. Way back then, I, too, had teachers that cared about educating the whole person.

SJW volunteers work with various groups addressing the needs of the community Sr.Jackie (middle) with Jill Nelson (left) and Rynnie Henderson (right).

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Pomp and Circumstance to ServiceSr. Jackie Schmitz

Sr. Jackie mudding a Katrina damaged house as a volunteer at St. Bernard Project “Nuns Build.”

“When the world closed its eyes, it opened its heart.” This quote from the movie Hotel Rwanda (2005), characterizes the refuge Paul Rusesabagina, a hotel manager offered during the 1994 Rwandan genocide where an estimated 800,000 people were brutally killed during a four month period. Hearts and eyes can be opened here at Nazareth Academy, a world away from Rwanda, with two survivors of this horrific civil war. Nazareth students Julienne Uwingabire and Josiane Umuhoza had their family members including parents, aunts, uncles, grandpar-ents and friends ripped from their lives, at the young age of two and one, respectively.

Their lives changed forever! Fast forward 16 years to where Julienne and Josiane arrive in the United States, after massive amounts of paperwork, on November 19, 2010. They are juniors at the school where our tag line does not get more poignant than . . . where lives change to change the world. How do two teenage orphans from Rwanda arrive at Nazareth Academy? Divine intervention? Or the good works of Father Jean Bosco Gakirage, a missionary who started an orphanage after the atrocities of the time in the district of Rwamagana, Rwanda. Here he is raising boys and girls

whose lives were shattered back in 1994. Similar to all parents, he wants the best for his kids and a Catholic education is that vehicle to providing a better life. Father Jean befriended the Congregation of St. Joseph on a recent visit to the states. Talks began with Sr. Pat Borchardt, CSJ (1950) and together they arranged the opportunity for Julienne and Josiane to study at Nazareth Academy where they can embrace their Catholicism and excel in their studies. The heartwarming experience of Julienne and Josiane continues with Sue and Bernie Martin of LaGrange. Sue, a math and religion teacher at Nazareth for the past 17 years, was asked how the opportunity came to be.

The girls are adjusting to their new home and parents. They affectionately call Sue and Bernie, Mom and Dad. Their progress is amazing and in four months’ time their resiliency has helped them adapt to the language barrier, absorb the American culture and strive for a diploma in May of 2012. “Julienne and Josiane have an intense work ethic that puts me to shame,” said Bernie. “They go to school all day and then study from 5 to 10:30 p.m. every night with a short break for dinner.” The girls love to cook and have enjoyed sharing their native foods with the Martins. While they love pizza, spaghetti and French fries, Josiane does not like meat, so they cook

A Little of the World Comes to Nazareth

JoSiane umuhoza& Julienne uWingabire

Bernie and I had a huge empty house after raising our four children and we wanted to impact another life . . . we considered many possibilities . . . Julienne and Josiane were the answer to our prayers.”

“

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‘12

The Alumni Advisory Board held an excellent speed networking series in January with over fifty in attendance. With such success, the Advisory Board will be hosting another round of networking on Thursday, May 5th at Nazareth Academy. Stay tuned for more information.

We invite all alums to become active members of any committees to assist in the planning and execution of multiple events throughout the course of the year. We hope you will join us as we continue to connect with alumni at these exciting events! Please send updated email contact informa-tion to Angela Broucek at abroucek@nazarethacademy.com in order to remain up to date.

Goals of the Alumni Advisory board• Toworktoensurethecontinuedacademicexcellenceat

Nazareth Academy• Tobuildalumniawarenessoftheongoinglifeand

accomplishments of current students, faculty, coaches, mentors, and other graduates of Nazareth

• Torenewandbuildalumnirelationshipsfromalleras and graduates regardless of age, locations, or gender

• Toassistinfinancialopportunity• Tocreateopportunitiesforalumnitogrowpersonally

and professionally through their continued relationship with Nazareth and other graduates

Alumni Advisory board Chairs

President Jeannie Muldowney (1981) jmuldo@yahoo.com

Vice President Tom Manno (1999) mannot@gmail.com

Secretary Maggie Zdarsky (2000) maggie_zdarsky@yahoo.com

Treasurer Paula Kosin (1970) paulak73@yahoo.com

Advisory board Sub Committees

ALuMnI SERVICE CORPS: Debbie Soldato (1972) dsoldato@comcast.net Debbie Vondrasek (1982) dvondrasek@nazarethacademy.com

CLASS REPRESEnTATIVES:

Christine Cook (1981) christinecook5312@att.com

nETwORkInG COMMITTEE:

Paula Kosin (1970) paulak73@yahoo.com Jeannie Muldowney (1981) jmuldo@yahoo.com

YOunG ALuMnI COMMITTEE:

Steve Ryan (2004) sjryanjr@me.com

We are in need of chairpersons for: Lecture Series Committee Social Events Committee

Reunion Committee

NEWS FROM Alumni Advisory Board

a lot of rice, beans and cabbage. When asked about Mom and Dad (Martin) they state with pride, “We are trying to teach them our native language of Kinyarwanda, that way when we take them home to Rwanda, they will be able to communicate with our family in the orphanage.” Attending college is on the agenda after graduation from Nazareth. When asked what they would like to study, Julienne would like to major in business and Josiane study medicine. Their vision is crystal clear . . . they both want to return to Rwanda and help their fellow countrymen. In Hotel Rwanda, Paul is motivated by his love for family and summons extraordinary courage to save many lives. The analogous situation right here in LaGrange, albeit on a smaller scale, is similar to Paul’s mission. The Martins have opened their hearts and home, motivated by love and the desire to change the world . . . two girls at a time. Eyes and hearts are opened here at Nazareth.

pg / 13

Please contact Jeannie Muldowney to become more involved in one of these committees!

RwandaRWAMAGANA‘12

Institutional Advancement

Change Our World . . . Forever

New life is what we are all about at Nazareth. We are smitten with the possi-bilities presented to each of our students – young, talented, aspiring girls and boys who will change the world. We must first look to change their world. Students perform and grow in the classroom, on

stage, and on fields. They see new beginnings whether at a chemistry lab table or in the beautiful tale of Samuel Taylor Coleridge’s “Rime of the Ancient Mariner.” They bring life to this place even as the year draws to a close. Our graduates are prologue. We look to you for what new life you gained while here and certainly there-

after. In this issue of BLUEPRINT, you hear just a hint of the tale that is yours and ours. From a doctor who heals the young to a woman whose life has touched corners of the globe, Nazareth has changed the world. We also hear of the entrepreneur‘s global reach and the story of students who know they have just begun to change. This is impossible without you. Whether you hear from us in the mail, over the net, on the phone, or in person, understand not only do we need you, the world needs you. What you do through Nazareth, either as a volunteer doing service, a parent sending us your children, or as a benefactor, you underscore all we do. Expect you will hear of the life of Nazareth in chang-ing ways in the future. Look on the web. Check your smartphone. Open the mail. It’s all good. It’s all about Nazareth. We want you to remain a part of our work, where lives change to change the world. Please do.

This time of year brings to mind new life. We look around and “smell the flowers.” We anticipate spring with affection, especially those of us who have experienced the harsh winter now complete. We celebrate the Resurrection and rejoice. I love spring!

Consider these ways to bring real savings and benefits to you and your family during and after your lifetime – and strengthen Nazareth Academy all at the same time.

Convert a low return on CDs and stocks into higher lifetime payments by establishing a Charitable Remainder Trust or Charitable Gift Annuity.

Receive a tax deduction and reduce capital gain, too.

Eliminate often unexpected income tax payments on your retirement fund by naming Nazareth Academy as a future beneficiary of your IRA, 401(k) or 403(b) plan.

Use life insurance to ‘leverage’ a larger gift by naming Nazareth Academy as a beneficiary. Your premiums may be tax deductible.

Build a legacy, by remembering Nazareth Academy in your will or living trust.

to LeARN MoRe, contact bob Dixon at (708) 387-8561 or your financial planner.

Please visit the Nazareth website and provide us with your feedback because your opinion matters to us.

We want to stay connected and keep you informed about all the great things happening at Nazareth.

Just go to www.nazarethacademy.com to update your contact information and share your opinions.

We want to hear from you!

pg / 14

What is this image?This image is called a “QR code” and it now represents the web address (URL) of the Nazareth Alumni calendar which looks like this when you pull it up on your screen. >

Mobile bookmarking This particular QR code enables you to bookmark the Nazareth calendar web page with your mobile phone quickly and easily. URL addresses

can get very long: www.nazarethacademy.com/s/157/images/editor_documents/CMS/Publications/blueprintalumnicalendar.pdf is one example. But with a QR code there is no need to type the full URL into your phone; instead you simply scan the image. Your phone reads it, converts it back into the URL and stores it as a bookmark. Then you can use your phone to go online to that page.

What you need• Amobilephonewithacamera• Amobilephonewithinternetaccessifyouwanttogodirectlyonline• AQRcodereaderinstalledonthephone

What you need if you do not have a smart phone

Type the above web address into your computer browser and hit enter. You will be directed to the web page with the Nazareth calendar.

nazareth calenDar

In Memoriam as of October 1, 2010

Mary E. Goss, 1943

Emilie Hesse Mother of Susan Hesse Williams (1960) and Virginia Hesse LaVery (1963)

Jeremy Izzo, 1999 Brother of Joshua Izzo (2003) and Jessica Izzo (2006)

Philip kaiser, 2008

Patricia keenan Mother/Mother-in-Law of Patrick Keenan (1993) Margaret Hayes Keenan (1995)

Eugene kennedy Father of Susan Kennedy Shields (1988)Grandfather of Caroline Kennedy (2004) Matthew Kennedy (2006) and James Kennedy (2009)

John G. kickels Brother of Dr. Mary Kay Kickels (1954)

Gerald “Jerry” Ryan Father of Julie Ryan (1987) and Erin Ryan Nash (1991)

Mary Magdalene Martino Skerbec, 1941

Roberta Zelinski Mother of Catherine Zelinski Porter (1987) and Charles Zelinski (1991)

pg / 15

April 14-17 > Spring Musical Seussical the Musical

MAy 3 > Scholarship Award Evening

MAy 13 > Circle the City

MAy 17 > Pops Choir Concert

MAy 5 > Alumni Association Speed Networking at Nazareth

MAy 10 > AP and Honors Open House

MAy 18 > Pops Band Concert

MAy 27 > Graduation

July 16 > RJ Sanders Golf Outing

August 22 > Classes Resume

August 26 > Fathers Club Welcome Pig Roast

septeMber 19 > Jack Wheeler Memorial Open

OctOber 7 > Nazareth Walk

OctOber 7-9 > Alumnae/i Reunion, Homecoming and Mass

nazareth acaDemy alumni calenDar april-october 2011

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If you are receiving duplicate copies of Blueprint, please contact Cissy Thunander cthunander@nazarethacademy.com or (708) 387-8536 with current addresses. Thank you in advance for helping conserve our resources.