Hear, See, Say - Mary Help of Christians Academy

Volume 01 Issue 02
Hear, See, Say
Mary Help of Christians Academy Alumnae News
MARY HELP’S
TREASURE TROVE
T
here was a veritable “Treasure Trove” at Mary
Help of Christians Academy on July 25th,
filled with vintage and unique items donated to
the Salesian Sisters over the years. With limited space
to hold all these amazing pieces, the Sisters decided
to hold a special sale, with proceeds benefitting the
Salesian Sisters’ Summer Camps. Anita Moreano-Zale,
an alumna of Mary Help, volunteered her time and
knowledge of antiquities and appraised many of the
items, including Murano glass, Otagiri and Tiffany
vases, vintage paintings, costume and antique jewelry,
and even a wedding gown and veil from 1945. The
Treasure Trove raised $3,500. Thank you, all!
Anita Moreano-Zale (Class of 1981) with Sister Rosalie.
SISTER ROSALIE
A LETTER FROM
Dear Alum,
Do you remember how special the 24th of each month was for
every Salesian when you were in school? It was the feast of
Mary Help of Christians! We were taught to love her as students…
and it was a love that carried over into our lives as adults.
If you remember your days at Mary Help, this was a time of the
May Crowning, yearbook, and for a group, a farewell.
I hope and pray that you still carry in your hearts memories of
your time at MHCA and that they have grown dearer with age. If
you keep Mary in your lives and hearts she will never fail you. It
is always a pleasure for me to meet our returning alums; do come
back to see us…we await with open arms!
Love, Sister Rosalie
INSIDE THIS
ISSUE
From MHCA to MD . . . . . . . . 3
Never Losing Hope . . . . . . . . 4
Class Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Yesteryears . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
ANA MARIA SCHOLARS
WHERE’S THAT
SISTER?
Sr. Antoinette Cabrera, a self described
“rebel”, was born on May 29, 1933 in
Puebla, Mexico to Ottilia and Pedro
Cabrera. Raised in a household of thirteen
children (some born and some adopted),
Sr. Antoinette fondly recalls “My parents
were strict, loyal, and faithful to God and
to their family, as well as to each other.
They were an example to all.
From an early age, Antoinette was a devout
Catholic and attended daily Mass with her
parents. For years, Antoinette assumed she
would marry and raise a large family. She
says, “I wanted to help as many children
as possible, especially the poor. ” But she
was also attracted to the religious life of
the Salesian Sisters and their work with
young people. So Antoinette prayed to the
Lord for guidance. After careful reflection,
Antoinette answered the Lord’s call and
chose to become not only a Salesian Sister
and teacher, but also a missionary.
Sr. Antoinette received her teaching
degree from Seton Hall University
and has taught in Texas, Florida, New
York, Massachusetts, and New Jersey.
Described as strict, compassionate,
understanding and a good listener by her
students, Sr. Antoinette marvels in the
knowledge that she has helped countless
numbers of children throughout the years
with her many talents.
For Sr. Antoinette’s complete bio,
visit the Adopt a Sister page at
facebook.com/AdoptASalesianSister
T
he Ana Maria Auxilium Award grants a full scholarship to a
student from each class, 7th-12th, for the upcoming year. It was
established to honor the memory and spirit of Ana Maria Baldor-
Bunn (1972-2002). Ana Maria was diagnosed with Cancer in May of 2000
while pregnant with her first and only child, William. Before she passed
away she said "One should seize the day and enjoy the moment and
make the best of what God lays before you. If you have been wanting to
do something with your life, do it now and never delay."
Students are nominated and endorsed by their families, friends, and
teachers. Each student is a good and honest Christian and uses her
gifts and talents for the service of others. She exhibits a conscientious
approach to academics and activities and her family actively supports
and enhances the spirit of MHCA.
This Years Award Recipients
7th – Siobhan Morissey
8th – Alejandra Cruz
9th – Roesha Andre
10th – Catherine and Elizabeth Livi
11th – Shiann Hernandez
12th – Shannon Cieciuch
FROM MHCA TO MD
Odette Harris, MD, Class of 1987
I
was a student at MHCA from 1984-1987. These were formative years and served as the
best foundation one could hope for both academically and spiritually. It was an amazing
experience filled with educators that were devoted to education and students and a student
body that was vibrant and committed not only to learning, but to reaching our potential.
Many in our class achieved both personal and professional success. Many of us remain close
friends. My best friend is a fellow classmate, Catalina Rojas (87). We are who we are because
of MHCA.
Throughout my academic experiences, I have remained connected to MHCA. I have had many
hurdles on my career path and at each juncture; the Salesian Sisters have reminded me of the
power of prayer and their commitment to me and my success. Often they have reached out to
pray for me during exams and to congratulate me on achievements. I was fully prepared for all
academic challenges that I encountered. I left MHCA and went to Dartmouth College, an Ivy
League institution and then to Stanford University School of Medicine. I did not just graduate
from these institutions, but excelled and received numerous academic honors, largely in part
to the preparation received at MHCA.
Personally, Sr. Felicia Tanzella wrote to me often and kept me daily in her prayers. I drew
significant strength from that knowledge. When I married and later became a mother, my
family and daughters were also in her thoughts and prayers. I laugh as I write this, as my
husband and I did not have children until nearly 7 years into our marriage. She often inquired
why; such was her reach into our lives and concern.
I think remarkable about MHCA as the durability and strength of its influence into our minds
and spirit. It has affected my approach to work, my view of the world, and my prioritization of
joy in our lives. I similarly chose a school for my girls and was drawn to the selected school
as its core values were courage, community, kindness and love of learning. I felt this in many
ways that these core values were similar to Beauty, Truth and Joy. As these values continue
STUDENTS
CORNER
to permeate my life in positive ways, I wanted the same for my daughters.
Odette Harris, MD,
MPH Associate Professor, Neurosurgery
Director, Brain Injury
Stanford University School of Medicine
Associate Chief of Staff, Polytrauma
Director, Defense Veterans
Brain Injury Center, VA Palo Alto HCS
Madeline Tineo (13) has been chosen out of 150 applicants to attend Summer College at Caldwell (SCAC), a
program designed for high school students who will be seniors in the Fall of 2012. SCAC is a three-week program
that provides the opportunity to earn three college credits while studying science, medicine and math. This
unique opportunity also incorporates SAT test taking strategies, academic field trips, and a taste of the college
experience. Madeline is looking to study Medicine and become an Optometrist after MHCA.
Gabrielle Gallagher (13) is participating in the PAVE program at Vanderbilt University this summer. PAVE is a sixweek summer pre-college program designed to strengthen the academic skills of students who are planning to
enter a college engineering, pre-medical, science, or technology program.
JILLIAN: NEVER LOSING HOPE
J
illian Gorman, a graduate of Mary Help of Christians Academy, North Haledon,
received news that she had AML Leukemia in November of her junior year. “I cried
that day, and the day my hair fell out, but I made a promise to not to cry anymore
or feel sorry for myself because of what was happening” said Jillian. She underwent
chemotherapy and right away was in search of a bone marrow. Luckily her brother was a
match, and by March 2010 she had gone through 3 rounds of chemotherapy and a bone
marrow transplant. While in isolation she contracted Veno Occlusive Disease (VOD). Jillian’s
chances of survival were slim and all hopes were in trying an experimental drug; after five
days her liver began functioning and she regained consciousness, a true miracle.
In December Jillian’s liver and kidneys slowly started to shut down again, this time placing
her on peritoneal dialysis with a need to receive a kidney transplant. On March 8, 2012
approximately twenty five donors and recipients went into surgery donating and receiving
Jillian with Sr. Mary Bertha
kidneys that would be saving lives.
After going through so much Jillian relapsed and had to go through another round of chemotherapy and a stem cell transplant in
April but with the grace of God and many prayers from her Mary Help family Jillian is doing well today. She has come a long way
from that diagnosis in early November 2009. Jillian didn’t let this disease hold her back from anything. She continued her studies
and graduated in June. Yes, there were times when she was upset with God but she now sees that He had a plan for her. If she
would have never became ill she would have never gotten so close to God. “I am fortunate enough that the Lord has given me each
day …I don’t live by weeks or months; I live it second by second. And I live it for God...He saved me through my illness, and I am so
grateful that He did.
Jillian will be attending Seton Hall University beginning this Fall and will be studying Nursing and Catholic Studies.
IN MEMORIUM
Remembering Those Who Have Passed
Sr. Gerard Barratino
1913-2012
SSr. Christine Hellen
1918-2012
Sr. Rose Segarini
1927-2012
Cindy Villalba
1974-1995
CLASS NOTES
1967
Christine Otterbine (Evelina) -
2000
For over 40 years
Janet Arias -
graduated from Ball State University
Christine worked in the Classified Section of newspapers
Honors College in 2004 with a degree in History and
retiring from Newark Star Ledger in October 2006. She
Spanish. In 2010 she graduated from Rutgers University
currently resides in Florida with her husband. They have 3
School of Public Administration with a Masters in Public
sons, 1 daughter, and 2 grandsons. " “I have been blessed
Administration. Janet is currently a consultant to various
with a beautiful family, a good husband, 2 beautiful
nonprofit organizations through Quidoo Consulting as
grandsons. Life is good!"
well as the Director of Grants for the Salesian Sisters
Development Office since 2004. She is the Vice President
of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute Alumni
1969
Nancy Lepardo (Torell) -
For over 36 years
Nancy worked at New Jersey Bell, At&T, and Qwest
Communications. She retired in 2009 and resides in
Arizona. Nancy spends her time volunteering at her
church and in the community. She has one beautiful
daughter and son-in-law.
Association, New York Chapter and a certified Notary
Public for the State of New Jersey.
Erin Medley -
graduated from Douglass College at
Rutgers University in 2004 with a B.A. in journalism and
media studies, then continued her education at Boston
University, graduating in 2006 with an MS in television.
Erin is currently a Senior Producer, Music and Events
1976
for VH1.com with responsibility for the creation and
Margaret "Peggy" Mitchell (Stringer) -
earned
her BA in Psychology and English and her MA in Industrial
Psychology. She returned to school for her degree in
Elementary Education and has been working in Livingston,
NJ for 12 years. Margaret has been married for 23 years and
in September 2012 she will have her 2 sons in college.
production of music content for the cable network. Prior
to working at VH1, she led the national online editorial
and programming teams for Clear Channel Media +
Entertainment. Erin also worked at The Martha Stewart
Show, Shape magazine, and The Breast Cancer Research
Foundation. " “I believe that you shouldn’t feel tied down
to one job -- life is meant for exploration until you find
exactly what you are looking for. ”" Erin currently resides in
1990
Woodbridge, where she enjoys playing volleyball in her
Marisol Vazquez (Del Rio) -
has been working
in the Passaic Public School District for 18 years and
free time. Thankfully, she has improved significantly since
her time as a Blue Jay on the JV team!
is currently a Master Teacher for the Department of
Early Childhood. Marisol is married with 2 children; her
daughter currently attends MHCA Middle School.
Vanessa Arias-Martinez -
received her degree in
Psychology from St. John’s University, a Masters in Clinical
1999
Veronica Garcia -
2002
and Counseling Psychology from William Paterson
graduated from Montclair State
University and is currently pursuing a Masters in Public
University in 2003 with a degree in Business Administration
Health, Global Health Leadership at New York University.
concentrating in Finance/Marketing. She first began
During her time at William Paterson University she was
working at Ernst & Young in 2001 during undergrad as
a graduate assistant for the GRACIA project as a Mental
an intern, and was hired full-time after graduation as a
Health Consultant. Vanessa is presently a Coordinator of
Staff Accountant. She soon became a Financial Analyst
Quality/Compliance and Outpatient Clinician at Nutley
and received her MBA in Finance in January 2012 from
Family Service Bureau, Inc., an Adjunct Professor at Bergen
Montclair State University.
Community College, as well as a State Trainer for Traumatic
CLASS NOTES (cont.)
Loss Coalition, University of Medicine and Dentistry. This
summer she will be a part of the Community Health
ALUMNAE SPOTLIGHT
Aimee Zanabria
(Class of 2012)
Graduate Program in conjunction with the University of
Aimee, one of
Cape Town, South Africa.
our most recent
2006
Melissa Pinto -
graduates, is heading
is currently in her 2nd year of Dental
to Cornell University
School at UMDNJ. " “I mainly just wanted to thank everyone
on a full academic
that makes Mary Help such a special place. I also would
scholarship.
want to give a really big hug to Sr. Susan Baglie, FMA
and Mrs. Hess whom were very important in my career
Congratulations!
making decisions and to whom I credit my success. They
helped me envision a dream and pushed me in the right
direction.”"
ALMUNI PICNIC DAY
Pack some sandwiches, swimsuits and your
family for one last summer hurrah on August 25!
2008
Brianna Gonzalez -
is currently a Travel Consultant
at Liberty Travel in Englewood, NJ. “"I must say that my
experience at MHCA definitely prepared me for dealing
with people as well as working for a prestigious company.
Thank you!"
2009
Shirley Hurtado - is currently a junior at the School of
Systems and Enterprises at Stevens Institute of Technology
MHCA would like to invite the alum to enjoy a picnic
and pool day at their alma mater. Alumni Picnic
Day will be Saturday, August 25th from Noon-4pm
at MHCA (659 Belmont Ave, North Haledon, NJ).
You provide your family and snacks and we provide
the beautiful grounds at no cost.
Follow
us!
facebook.com/MaryHelpofChristians
twitter.com @MHCA_Alumni
pursuing a degree in Engineering Management. After
graduation she plans on getting a good job, perhaps
going back to school to earn an MBA/JD, starting her
own business, traveling, starting a scholarship fund, and
taking care of her family so they can live as comfortable
as possible.
2011
Lauren Sedeyn -
is currently attending the University
of South Carolina studying biomedical engineering; she
wants to become an Oral Maxillofacial surgeon and work
for Operation Smile. Lauren is hoping to graduate by
2013. She has been nominated to the National Society of
Collegiate Scholars, made the Dean’s List and is on the
executive board of the Captone’s Scholar Biomedical
Engineering Department.
CONGRATULATIONS
TO THE CLASS OF
2012!
YESTER-YEARS: A LOOK BACK
May Crowning, May 24, Yesterday and Today
As tradition has it,
May is the month
of Mary where we
ceremoniously crown
her Queen of Heaven
and Mother of God.
Clockwise from top left: 1968,
D. Redner delivers Mart’s
crown; 1969, Nanci Hall crowns
Mary; 1971, Debbie Bristow
places her rose before Mary’s
shrine; 2012, Nancy Lorenzo
crowns Jesus.
TWILIGHT
AND SHIMMER
MHCA Prom 2012
"Robert Pattinson" joined
Amanda Salazar at the
2012 MHCA Prom.
Karen Vega and Marie Leskauskas
take a moment to pose
for the camera.
Mary Help of Christians Academy
659 Belmont Avenue
North Haledon, N.J. 07508
973-790-6200
NON-PROFIT ORG
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
HANOVER, PA 17331
PERMIT NO. 4
HAPPY 50th REUNION!
The Class of 1962: Remembering Beauty, Truth and Joy!
The Class of 1962 celebrated their 50th reunion this year!
TEACHER FEATURE
Marie Hess has been with MHCA
since 2000. She currently teaches
the Life Sciences and is the Director
of the Health Care Connections
Program. She holds a BA in Biological
Science and she has been blessed
with countless opportunities from
a staff nurse to being published in
the American Journal of Pathology
and The Archives of Pathology and
Laboratory Medicine and most recently
a faculty appointment to the UMDNJ.
Her message to all alumni: “Thank you
your success is my reward. ”
If you are interested in celebrating a reunion, please contact the Alumni
Relations Office at (973) 850-7467, email at [email protected], or
feel free to visit Mary Help and stop by the office personally.
Follow us on Facebook (facebook.com/MaryHelpofChristians) and
Twitter (@MHCA_Alumni).
HOPE TO SEE YOU AT THE ALUMNI PICNIC DAY!
August 25th from Noon-4pm at MHCA! Details on page 8!