SPELLMAN MAGAZINE MOVING FORWARD IN THE FACE OF ADVERSITY (2024)

SPELLMANSPRING 2021 MAGAZINEMOVING FORWARDIN THE FACE OFADVERSITY INSIDE THIS ISSUE LONG RANGE STRATEGIC PLAN | Chapel Renovations | COVID RELIEF FUND

CARDINAL SPELLMANHIGH SCHOOL FROM THE PRESIDENTSpring 2021The Spellman Magazine ispublished by the Office ofAlumni/Advancement. Dear Alumni and Friends,EDITOR IN CHIEF & SENIORDIRECTOR OF ALUMNI It has been quite a year for the Spellman community. We are entering theRELATIONS last few months of an entire year of hybrid and remote learning. As an& ANNUAL GIVING educator, I would never have imagined school like this, but I am proudDelia Rivera to tell you how well the Spellman faculty, staff and most importantly,SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, students, faced every challenge.ADVANCEMENTJohn W. McGrath Our students switched from the normal everyday routine of school to full remote instruction in March of 2020. We all thought that it would be aDATABASE MANAGER relatively short experience as society attempted to flatten the curve. We hadNydia Arezza no idea then, that a year later we would still be in the midst of a pandemic.ADVANCEMENT OFFICERValeta Prendergast Even while facing this challenge, our faculty continued to provide the best education in The Bronx. Not a day of instruction was missed. We remained current with our curriculumCONTRIBUTORS map and our academic standards never faltered. Our students adapted to the changes and continued toStephanie Brown ’22, John Farrell, excel, as did the countless Spellman students before them.Kim Gajda, Daniel O’Keefe,Fr. Peter Pilsner, Valeta Prendergast, One of your fellow Spellmanites said: "Spellman didn't just survive during the pandemic, it thrived!"Delia Rivera, Collin Smith ’94,Karen Valenti ’03 I am proud of all that was accomplished during that time. Our faculty received state-wide recognition for projects during the pandemic. Our seniors have been accepted to top colleges and universities, the schoolPHOTOGRAPHY produced a musical revue, and the sports programs received the go-ahead to compete in March of 2021.John Farrell, Jermelle Fraser ’05,John Johnson ’90, Kyle O’Donnell, None of this would have been possible without the extraordinary efforts of every member of the SpellmanDelia Rivera, Collin Smith ’94, community. Parents put their faith in us to provide a quality Catholic education. Students gave 100%.Maria Venusio, Manhattan College Teachers went above and beyond to learn new ways to provide instruction. And, of course, YOU, our alumni and friends provided the essential financial support to make this happen. Our COVID relief fundDESIGN provided essential assistance to those Spellman families who lost jobs or faced extraordinary medicalRose Creative Group costs due to COVID-19.www.rosecreative.net But the challenges are not over. Many of our families are still suffering from economic difficulties. Even with vaccination rates increasing and infection rates decreasing, COVID-19 continues to affect the health of our communities. The long-term, social-emotional effects of prolonged isolation experienced by our students are still being analyzed. Although we are still conquering the fight against COVID, I am confident that we will be able to face those challenges with your continued support. We are Spellman strong! THAT makes all the difference. Our students see the light at the end of a long and challenging tunnel: the future is filled with hope. TheHow to Reach Us next school year looks to be much closer to normal, and we will welcome the newest class of Pilots to1 Cardinal Spellman Place Spellman this fall.Bronx, New York 10466(718) 881-8000 x215 As we all make our way into this new and exciting future, may God continue to bless us in everything thatwww.cardinalspellman.org we do. I ask that you keep the Spellman community in your prayers.alumni@cardinalspellman.org Sincerely yours in Christ,Follow us on Dan O'Keefe President and Principal SPELLMAN MAGAZINE | 3

Mark your calendars for Tuesday, September 21, 2021. The President’s Dinner raises funds for Student Financial Aid through ticket sales, journal advertisem*nts, and sponsorship packages. We are thankful for our existing donors for their years of unwavering patron- age, and we hope to create a pipeline for engaging potential new donors. PROMOTING DIVERSITY IN THE ARTS Less than six percent of the advertising industry identifies as Black or African American. As a means of remedying this disparity, Spellmanites Valerie DiFebo ’80, CEO for Deutsch New York, and Gail Anderson ’80, Chair for the School of Visual The highlight of the evening will showcase the amazing video produced by Castletown Arts’ BFA Design and Advertising Programs, have teamed up to create the Fund the Change scholarship program. Fund Media that captured the true essence of the Spellman experience, by highlighting the the Change grants $10,000 per year to two incoming freshman students who have been accepted into the BFA Design amazing alumni, faculty, staff, and students that add to the legacy of the school. We or Advertising programs. This merit-based scholarship renews annually, totaling $40,000 over the life of the recipient’s undergraduate career. 2021 marks the pilot year for this program, with eligible students applying for the award in February, are sincerely grateful for alumni, honoree, and Board Member, Nick Mancini ’10, for and winners announced in March. being this event’s sponsor and for his countless other acts of generosity. Meeting as high school classmates, the two women maintained their friendship throughout the years, and are thrilled to have come together, creating an initiative that aims to bring more diversity to this professional landscape. Enthused by the Black Lives Matter Movement, both Valerie and Gail were on a mission to create a program that offered paid internships to historically underrepresented candidates, mentoring them throughout their college careers, as well as creating long-term growth opportunities within the industry upon graduation. "Our mission is simple: to "This scholarship is a dream strengthen our industry by come true for me, a first- investing in future leaders CA RDI NA L SPE LLMA N HI G H S C H OOL generation BIPOC SVA, who come from historically alumnus, and now a Chair underrepresented backgrounds. at the college. Anything In the heart of our City, we P R E S I D E N T ’S is possible when talent is knew SVA was the right partner supported and nurtured. for us. Together we will be a TUESDAY, Thanks to our friends at Deutsch, new doors will catalyst for our next generation of creative professionals by DINNER SEPTEMBER 21, 2021 open for the next generation bridging the gap between of creative professionals.” the classroom and agency experience.” 6:00–10:00 - Gail Anderson ’80 - Valerie DeFibo ’80 SUP P ORTING F INANCIA L AI D Fund the Change is administered through SVA’s Visual Arts Foundation and funded by Deutsch NY. SURF C LUB O N T HE S OU ND 280 DAV EN PORT AVE NUE N EW ROCHELLE, N EW YO R K 24TH ANNUALSPONSORSHIPS, TABLES & TICKETS❏ DINNER SPONSORSHIP: SOLD$40,000 Please email alumni@cardinalspellman.org with your journal ad information by September 7, 2021. Ads are 8” x 8” and should be designed in full-color; VIRTUAL ALUMNI MEMORIAL MASS image-ready PDF files are preferred. Any logos submitted should be in EPS❏ co*ckTAIL HOUR SPONSORSHIP: $15,000 format or generated from vector art (i.e. Adobe Illustrator).❏ VISIONARY TABLE: $10,000❏ SPELLMAN RED AND WHITE TABLE: $5,000 REPLY INFORMATION As has been one of our most beautiful Spellman❏ PILOTS TABLE: $3,000 traditions, every November all members of the Spellman❏ INDIVIDUAL TICKET(S) $225 NAME GRADUATION YEAR family are invited to partake in the Annual Alumni❏ FACULTY/STAFF OR YOUNG ALUMNI TICKET(S)* $125 Memorial Mass. Due to the pandemic’s gathering(Alumni that graduated 2010-2020) BILLING ADDRESS restrictions, we were not able to have the Mass in- person. Thankfully, we were able to hold a virtual service.COMMEMORATIVE JOURNAL ADVERTIsem*nTS PREFERRED PHONE❏ OUTSIDE BACK COVER Although we missed an in-person service, we are all $5,000 hopeful that we will once again be able to congregate for❏ INSIDE FRONT OR BACK COVERS $3,000 PLEASE SEAT ME WITH the next Alumni Memorial Mass in November 2021. As a❏ GOLD PAGE $1,000 ❏ I/WE WOULD LIKE TO DONATE AN AUCTION ITEM. PLEASE CONTACT ME. Spellman community, we remembered in a special way❏ FULL PAGE $500 all those who have gone before us to eternal life. To register online, please visit www.cardinalspellman.org/presidentsdinner SPELLMAN MAGAZINE | 5

CARDINAL SPELLMAN HIGH SCHOOL Women Making History There are certain milestone events that serve as defining moments for every generation: Dr. Martin Annual Golf Outing Luther King, Jr.’s I Have a Dream speech; Neil Armstrong landing on the Moon; Barack Obama elected as the first African-American President of the United States of America; and now, coming off ALL PROCEEDS SUPPORTING STUDENT FINANCIAL AID the heels of one of the most unprecedented years in history, we celebrate the election of Kamala Harris, the first African-American Woman Vice- President of South Asian heritage. Hosted by Chairman Nick Mancini ’10 We at Cardinal Spellman are proud, not only for this accomplishment in our Nation’s history, but because fellow Spellmanite, Associate Justice of the Supreme TUESDAY, JUNE 29, 2021 Court, Sonia Sotomayor ’72, issued Madame Vice President the Oath of Office. The Oath was given using Leewood Golf Club | Eastchester, New York the Bible once owned by Thurgood Marshall, the first African-American Supreme Court Justice, and strong advocate for the Civil Rights Movement. Justice Sotomayor made history of her own by becoming the first Latina to be appointed to the Supreme Court. Golf & Dinner $375 Paula (Williams) Madison ’70 had this to say about the symbolism of Inauguration Day 2021: co*cktails & Dinner Only Price $200 “I’ve been on the Vice President-Elect’s successive campaign finance committees since she ran for California Attorney General, U.S. Senate, U.S. President and the Biden-Harris campaign. Like many Spellman students and alums, we share our Jamaican heritage and Chance Auction $100 – Door Prize of $1,000 Asian heritage: she from India and me from China. What my sister-friend Kamala and I + 3 chances to win incredible prizes! share with our U.S. Supreme Court Justice, Sonia Sotomayor is that we are the children of immigrants who came to the United States for freedom, justice, and opportunity. Look at Silent Auction what these immigrant families accomplished in just one generation! Every CSHS student, every student: these women are living proof that you too can achieve your goal of The White House, The U.S. Supreme Court and so much more.” 50/50 Raffle What an amazing moment in history where women are making strides, and pushing past boundaries to reach heights of greatness. We salute all remarkable women across the world! Donate a prize and everyone wins! Help support our event with a Gift-In-Kind donation for our auction. For more information or online registration, visit: FIRST ANNUAL ARCHDIOCESAN FACULTY AND STAFF APPRECIATION DAY www.cardinalspellman.org/golfouting Wednesday, March 3rd marked the first annual Archdiocesan Faculty and Staff Appreciation Day. Cardinal Spellman High School celebrated our faculty and staff for their dedication to our students and making Spellman feel like a second home to so many. We thank you for all that you do for our community, especially during these trying times. You have been the foundation behind the meaning of #SpellmanStrong.6 | SPRING 2021 SPELLMAN MAGAZINE | 7

LONG RANGE Each domain was led by a chairperson and faculty STRATEGIC PLAN liaison, collectively called the Steering Committee, along with a subset of people that made up the larger Strategic Planning Domains strategic planning process. The primary role of the Steering Committee was to help guide conversations 1. Academics/Technology around how Spellman’s mission and vision map into 2. Advancement/Communications the aforementioned key areas. This created the ability to identify the functions we do exceptionally well in 3. Catholic Identity comparison to our contemporaries, as well as outlining 4. Enrollment/Marketing areas for growth and improvement. 5. Facilities/Technology Infrastructure For example, when the 2018 SAT exams were 6. Finance administered, Spellman students ranked higher than 7. Governance the National and NYC averages as a whole. The results of the 2018 NYS Regents exams also demonstrated that 8. Student Life Spellman students, on average, scored higher than any other Archdiocese of NY schools in eight of the eleven Regents exams that are offered. Many strategic plans are written with one end goal in mind: how to grow one’s business and increase All domains were tasked with completing “SWOT” surveys that identified Strengths, Weaknesses, Key Stakeholders performance amongst staff within a specified timeframe. What sets Spellman apart from most other strategic Opportunities and Threats for each key area, planning initiatives is that our approach is deeply rooted in our Catholic values, with the ultimate objective to interviews with stakeholders, followed by focus group Parents • Students • Faculty & continue improving our curriculum, retaining talent, and diversifying our fundraising baseline throughout the discussions on the findings. This exercise helped to Staff • Administration • Alumni life of the school. This process began in the spring of 2019 and involved a host of key stakeholders including inform each domain’s narratives, i.e. written reports, • Industry Experts • Pastors & parents, students, faculty & staff, administration, alumni, industry experts, pastors & diocese, donors, community leaders, and first responders – some serving on our Board. Spearheading the process was Partners in Mission, a consisting of an overarching strategic goal and Diocese • Donors • Community objectives to help attain such goal. premier firm dedicated to advancing the mission of Catholic schools throughout the United States via consulting, Leaders • First Responders training, and professional development. The process consisted of: The task at hand: write comprehensive mission and vision statements 1. Domains fine-tuning their reports with attainable deliverables and outcomes. Our mission is the school’s 2. The Steering Committee and Administration fundamental purpose: to promote a culture of aspiration that encourages reviewing the reports superior academic performance, leadership, and service. Our vision is what 3. Board review and feedback we want our future to look like: expanding our reach within the community 4. Domains gathering feedback from stakeholders in order to obtain and retain the best student talent, by providing them with 5. Partners in Mission finalizing the reports a transformational college preparatory experience, rooted in serving God and 6. Board ratification of the Long Range Strategic Plan each other with love. These data-driven findings will help to launch us into After two years of thoughtful processes, numerous meetings, focus groups, the implementation phase of the strategic plan that we and data assessments, we have arrived from inception to evolution. Our Long hope to accomplish over the next few years. Spellman Range Strategic Plan (LRSP) is a 74-page document detailing the domains, is proud of the hard work and dedication that was i.e. committees, that were formed based on the key areas in which we work: invested into this initiative, which will enable us to Academics/Technology; Advancement/Communications; Catholic Identity; truly transform boys and girls with dreams into men Enrollment/Marketing; Facilities/Technology Infrastructure; Finance; President and Principal Dan O’Keefe with and women of vision. Kathleen Casey from Partners in Mission Governance; and Student Life.8 | SPRING 2021 SPELLMAN MAGAZINE | 9

Everything Centers Around Our Spellman Students Outperform Their Peers Our Catholic Identity Average SAT Score Comparison for 2018 High Schools of the Archdiocese of New York Steering Committee, Spellman NYC Nation 2018 Regents Governance Academics Chair & Board Liaison # OF STUDENT WHO % SUBJECT TOOK EXAM PASSED FAILED PASSED School Leadership:1250 CC ELA 3,794 3,641 153 96% Dan O’Keefe 1096 1076 CC Algebra I 3,774 3,248 526 86%1000 1008 Facilities Student Life Steering Committee Chair: CC Algebra II/Trig 2,407 1,956 451 81% CC Geometry 3,128 2,259 869 72% Catholic Identity John Green EXAMS 750 Global History & Geography 4,025 3,679 346 91% Academics/Technology: 560 536 506 531 502 536 US History & Government 3,802 3,653 149 96%500 Living Environment 3,837 3,436 401 90% Tim Rivlin Earth Science 1,572 1,237 335 79% 250 Chemistry 2,460 1,792 668 73% Enrollment Advancement Kyle O’Donnell Physics 1,109 842 267 76% 0 Avg Math Avg EBRW Avg Total TOTAL 16,805 14,639 2,166 87% Advancement/Communications: Finance Kieran McTague ’76 John McGrath Catholic Identity: Fr. Luke Leighton Fr. Peter Pilsner Enrollment/Marketing: Nick Mancini ’10 Deirdre Gibbons Facilities/Technology Infrastructure: Therese McNicholas ’84 Mario Hernandez Finance: Strategic Planning Len Boccia ’85 Timeline Highlights Elizabeth (McKiernan) Healy ’84 Governance: Dan O’Connell ’72 Dan O’Keefe JUNE 2019 JULY 2019 OCTOBER 2019 MARCH 2020 NOVEMBER 2020 Student Life: Soft Launch: Brainstorming: Hard Launch: Completion of Domain Virtual Retreat: Terry McCormack ’63 Overview Affirm Mission and Timeline Established and SWOT Surveys: Domain Breakout Shyna Quadras ’19 with School Vision Statements Appointment of Identifying Strengths, Sessions and Collin Smith ’94 Administrators Steering Committee Weaknesses, Opportunities Fine-Tuning Narratives and Threats10 | SPRING 2021 SPELLMAN MAGAZINE | 11

SOSS / COVID-19 Appeal Rocquelle A. Jeri, Esq. Charles J. Pignatelli David J. O'Shea ➤ 1979 Arthur J. Lichte Joan E. Ranallo Pamela A. Perrone, Ph.D. Anonymous Donor Committee Members: Patricia (Hargrave) Mansfield James W. Smith, D.D.S. Lillian E. Reyes William F. Adams Jim J. Roberts ‘79 - Chairman Claudia P. (Proto) McDermott Theresa S. (Speckman) Wright Robert C. Romeo Leslie H. M. Allicks Kieran McTague ‘76 - Strategic Advisor Patrick J. McGuinness Nivo Rovedo FOR YOUR John R. Ambroseo, Ph.D. Bob E. Altomare ‘68 Edwin C. Menendez ➤ 1971 James B. Slattery Phyllis R. (Bucci) Bartoli Victoria A. A. Dengel ‘79 Mary E. (Placeres) Nasereddin Anonymous Donor Debbie J. Vigliotti Mary B. (Morley) Brunetti Paul A. Mackin ‘75 Janice T. (Tesoriero) Pauly Patrick G. Boyle Stephen Brunetti Margie Mullins ‘79 Michael G. Reilly John J. DiBiase ➤ 1975 Frances C. Chen-Levine Maria T. (Jerussi) Terranova John T. Endres Anonymous Donor GENEROUS SPIRIT, Mary Ellen D. O'Connor Shyne ‘68 Alan T. Cirulli Janice T. Pauly ‘67 Marie D. (Delgado) Travis Kevin A. Michel Teresa M. Di Mauro Maureen Coleman Bob C. Romeo ‘74 Kristine M. (Strubing) Vickery Martin T. Mylott Claudia Longo Jeannie B. Connolly John E. Sloan ‘65 Mary E. P. (Cahill) Von Ancken Teresa H. (Wassmann) Neal John Magnus Paul G. Cregan Jeanette A. Danno Walton ‘67 Jeanette Danno Walton Patricia E. Nealon Elizabeth A. Mullins Robert A. Crowley WE THANK YOU! Andrea P. (Pelosi) Winslow Laurie A. Pellegrino Donald J. Roderick Anna DeGasperis Velez Monica A. (Lyttle) Zeigler Maureen E. Spratley-Longo Serge A. Del Grosso Class Representatives ➤ 1976 Victoria A. A. Dengel Terry McCormack ‘63 ➤ 1968 ➤ 1972 William H. Athanasidy Theresa M. (Orosz) DeNisco John E. Sloan ‘65 Daniel A. Agosto Anonymous Donor John J. Burns Jean A. (McDermott) Duffy James P. O'Sullivan ‘66 Louis G. Altieri Thomas M. Burns Patrice M. Cortelli Adrienne W. (Wheeler) Francis Jeanette A. Danno Walton ‘67 Robert E. Altomare Gaspare J. Cerullo Diane T. (Fulvio) Dowd Paul A. Gangi Janice Pauly ‘67 Lorraine T. Ambrosecchio Rafael Collado Charles J. Finnegan Warren G. Harr Bob Altomare ‘68 Patrick A. Baldoni Mary F. (Francovilla) Dees Donata Fulgione Frank W. Johnson Mary Ellen D. O'Connor Shyne ‘68 We would like to extend our deepest and most sincere Joe P. De Fazio ‘71 Juanita E. Bing Newton Grissele Camacho, Esq. Dennis R. Elliott Renee Ferrante-Fiorenza Christine A. (Musto) Huguenot Jane E. (Dorney) Madio Thomas J. McCarthy Neil C. McDaid Joan Donaghue Reilly ‘72 thanks to our Spellman heroes who have helped to raise Bob C. Romeo ‘74 Marta Ceballos Magaly C. (Garcia) Chiprut Kevin S. Finnegan Doreen M. Frasca Kieran P. McTague Maria (Delli Paoli) Morgan Ann M. Moriarty Margaret M. Mullins OVER $350,000 for our SOSS/COVID-19 Kieran P. McTague ‘76 Albert S. Conte Patricia E. Gallagher Carl H. Ortmann Daniel N. O'Brien Kim Del Rosario Fonseca ‘77 Mary D. (Fleming) Courtney Lois Harr Noreen Schifini John P. O'Keeffe Carolyn (Masiello) Moffa ‘77 Marie C. (Mirenda) Flom Marian T. (Sabatiello) Hester Marie O'Neill-Sheehan fundraising initiative. These gifts have been a blessing Mary (Rogan) Swikata ‘78 Phyllis (Bucci) Bartoli ‘79 Margaret M. Hunt-Gunshanan Kevin E. Lofton ➤ 1977 James J. Roberts Christina A. (Soto) Lavine Patricia A. (Perazzo) Maniace Anonymous Donor Emmanuel D. Sanz to over 140 families, seeing them through during the Jim Roberts ‘79 Margie M. Mullins ‘79 Evelyn T. (Orta) Manca Kevin McGill Rose B. Arlia Joseph P. Sinnott Joan E. McInerney Janet C. (Wezel) Michel Michael J. Crowe James J. Stewart Victoria Dengel ‘79 darkest days of the pandemic. We are eternally grateful. Joseph De Caprio ‘82 Nancy D. Munoz-Maser Mary Ellen D. O'Connor Shyne Daniel S. O'Connell Gloria R. (Perri) O'Connell Kim L. Del Rosario - Fonseca Lisa T. (Menillo) Weis Samuel Fonseca Deacon John V. Maulucci ‘83 Kathleen M. O'Toole Edmund M. O'Neill Virginia A. Gortych-Barnes, M.D. ➤ 1980 Liz (McKiernan) Healy ‘84 Joseph G. Serico Joan T. (Donoghue) Reilly Natalie Homs-Schultz Gail T. Anderson Silvio Balzano ‘85 Nydia E. (Mercado) Sturges Gloria J. Tomanelli Keith A. Joseph Carol A. (Martin) Colton Maria M. Porco-Rosa ‘85 Maureen A. Sullivan John J. Kilcullen Valerie A. DiFebo Kimberly (Burgess) Capers ‘87 Victoria A. (Trucchi) Sullivan ➤ 1973 Aileen J. (King) Pasquel AnnaMaria (Carpana) Genova Claire (Crescenzo) Armstrong ‘89 Anonymous Donor Louisa J. Pricoli Marie L. Gibson-Price Collin Smith ‘94 ➤ 1969 John K. Buckley Nancy E. (Devany) Roecklein Lisa A. (Tarallo) Gillies Joseph DeFazio ‘05 Judith Bosco Colleen M. (Walsh) Clark Anthony F. Ronchick John F. McCabe Gabriel Guerrero ‘07 James E. Brady Elizabeth R. Daly Kathleen A. Schneider-Ruiz Michael E. Shea Qadry Harris ‘10 Kenneth Conicelli Eileen C. Doyle Gerard P. Swikata Paul G. Tirelli Jimmy Cassidy ‘13 Sandra A. (Vicini) Gerace Edmund P. Hartnett Beatriz D. Taveras Lisa P. (Payne) Wansley Michael Zheng ‘19 John M. Hughes Robert J. Nikl, C.P.A. Bernadette M. (Giangrossi) Weidman Gary B. Johnson Doreen M. (Flanagan) O'Boyle ➤ 1981 Cynthia G. (Bryan) Lebowitz Rosangela (Delli Paoli) Renz ➤ 1978 Anonymous Donor Jean D. (Deryk) Lolli Donato Settanni, Sr. Anonymous Donors (x2) James P. Doyle, Ph.D. Kerry P. (McDonnell) McLean Joanne P. Alicea Edwin G. Kelly GIVING BY CL ASS Robert F. McLean Daniel W. Murray ➤ 1974 Tina Marie A. Bonanno Susan Cottingham Cathleen E. (Donnelly) Deegan Patrick J. McHugh Brendan J. Spillane Orestes A. Rosabal Loraine J. (Pedretti) Burns Suzette Fernandes Claudia R. (Genovese) Sacino Gary J. Choolfaian Juliann (Richardson) Gaddy ➤ 1963 Phyllis A. (Savino) Ferrante Philip A. Velazquez James P. O'Sullivan ➤ 1982 Denise B. Sepe Regina A. (D'Adamo) De Marco Jeffrey V. George John D. Hajko Gregory J. Waldron Phyllis C. (D'Argenio) Rothschild Lori A. Mastrangelo Loretta J. (Gritz) Anderson Denise E. (Letscher) Serico Timothy M. Dodd Joseph E. Heckman William L. Mansfield Anne E. (Hannaway) Walker Kathleen B. Scully Hodges Catherine I. Mirenda-Deller Richard T. Benderoth Anne M. Thomas Michael P. Elms Tricia A. (Gallagher) Hempel Janice M. (Rhoder) Penn Charles A. Walwyn, Jr. James D. Sheppard Maria A. Piri Rosemarie J. (Speranza) Benderoth Gloriana B. Waters Grant Alfred G. Feliu Francis G. Hoare Raymond J. Biddiscombe Joseph J. Rincione Elisa A. (DeMasi) Siciliano Warren F. Wezel Eileen M. Gambone-Justino Thomas D. Huvane Edmond J. Bond Frederick E. Studer ➤ 1966 Marie A. Tarantino ➤ 1983 William R. Toth Jerome A. Coleman Robert A. Terranova Patrick A. Garvey Kristel A. Johnson Donna M. Alfieri-Timmes Kathleen M. (Lynch) Eussen ➤ 1970 Margaret M. Gerrity Mary A. Lynch Gerald T. Finn Edward F. Curley Mary Ann (Scarangello) Tighe Deborah A. Delgado Catherine M. (Dunkel) Bookless Barbara J. (Cortelli) Halecki Michael P. Mazza Lorraine M. (Rolleri) Hartman ➤ 1965 Kathleen T. Erickson Maria E. Fernandez Louis M. Fabrizio William P. Hogan Frank D. O'Connor Lorraine C. Longo Janet P. (Salerno) D'Arcangelo Rosemarie A. (Cucuzzo) Farenga ➤ 1967 Mary K. Lindley-Soucy Lizbeth Gonzalez Lenworth N. Johnson, M.D. Denis J. O'Sullivan Terrence J. McCormack Mary E. Goldsmith-Larkin Laura M. Forish-Ferguson Simon B. Barbosa John V. M. Maulucci Dorothy A. Krynicki Michael G. Justino Brian A. Potter Thomas J. Mulligan Dennis G. Mahoney William E. Henry Kathleen M. Barrett Lisa V. (Latronica) Pomeroy Kevin W. Mangan Doreen E. (King) Kinsley Paul G. Sacco, P.E. Brendan J. Pressimone Warren L. Lyons Barbara J. Casey Gary P. Vessecchia Richard J. Marcogliese Grace B. (Lugo) Kruskol John R. Shelley ➤ 1964 Camille V. (Napolitano) Rapisarda John W. Manning Gabriella G. Pauline Castro Bertino Marro Judith-Noelle Lamb Michelle M. (Willms) Silveri Paul J. Braunwart John B. Rice Maria A. (Parran) McDonald Mary L. (Brennan) DeStasio Robert M. Penna Ralph C. Liuzzo Mary T. (Rogan) Swikata Michael L. Ferrante Georgette M. (Anner) Toews George J. Morris Mary Jane Hall-Gorges Martha D. (De Cesare) Perlmutter Michael P. McSherry Ana M. Vegega12 | SPRING 2021 SPELLMANMAGAZINE SPELLMAN MAGAZINE|| 13

➤ 1984 Regina M. (Berwick) McDuffie, Ph.D. ➤ 2001 FRIENDS, FACULTY & STAFF In Honor of Class of 1981 In Honor of Hope In Memory of Vincent M. Burns '79 In Memory of Anne Shea Anonymous Donor Jesimae (Rivera) Ossorio Stephanie N. Fobi Anonymous Donors (x2) Edwin G. Kelly '81 Anonymous Donor Maureen Coleman '79 Michael E. Shea '80 Maria (Allegra) Allegra-Tommasi Nicole C. Perkins Gina Barthelemy Frank D. O'Connor '78 Patrice E. (Liquori) Athanasidy ➤ 1989 Eileen Byrne In Honor of Class of 1984 In Honor of John Mascia In Memory of Michael D. Johnson '72 Claire A. (Crescenzo) Armstrong William F. Adams '79 John R. Mascia '86 In Memory of Robert W. Cardosa '78 Patricia E. Gallagher '72 Alexander C. Aviles ➤ 2002 Hayrim Byun Cerrone M. Barrow Simpkins Deson A. Hall Kiana Cabrera Kimberly-Marie Colon-Moller '84 Joseph E. Heckman '78 Meredith Masciotti Annamaria C. (Greco) Callan Joseph G. Martinez Laura Chaney Nancy A. Tracy DePasquale '84 In Honor of KTM #47 In Memory of Dr. James P. Killarney '72 Claire M. (Malone) Cavalli Roberto R. Ossorio Thomas Ciccone Donna A. LaSpina '84 Tyler J. Smyth '14 In Memory of Theresa (Englert) A. Eileen C. Doyle '73 Tara A. (Treco) Reynolds ➤ 2004 Dawn L. (Wilson) Murchison '84 Choolfaian '74 Donna M. (Mason) Cirulli Anonymous Donor Garry Collins Kimberly-Marie Colon-Moller Julissa M. Rosado Yomara Colon Marianne (Lizzo) Ventrice '84 In Honor of Peter Gill Gary J. Choolfaian '74 In Memory of Linda A. (Nicotra) Amy F. Featherstone Kennelly Dolores E. Curbelo Maureen R. (Evers) Willox Bridget Cullen Eileen Byrne Kinsman '79 Alfonso DeGaetano Michael Del Medico In Honor of Class of 1985 In Memory of Andrew J. Cipolla Theresa M. (Orosz) DeNisco '79 ➤ 1990 ➤ 2005 Maureen A. Corbett '85 In Honor of Spellman Lacrosse players James P. O'Sullivan '66 Blanca H. Delgado-Sosa Anonymous Donor Dawn DiGiacomo Mary Ann (Sullivan) Doyle Marc A. Anello Cathleen M. DiMuro throughout the years In Memory of Eileen M. Kitson '72 Karen M. Constante In Honor of Class of 1986 Kyle O'Donnell In Memory of Fr. James J. Corrigan Anonymous Donor Veronica R. (Romero) Guerrero, Esq. Paul Coady John Farrell Joseph W. DeFazio Naomi A. (Lowery) Sinclair '86 James P. O'Sullivan '66 Elizabeth A. (McKiernan) Healy Laura R. (Apakorn Choonhasenee) Holz Kim Gajda Carla E. DeMarzo-Sanchez In Honor of The Black and Latinx In Memory of Mrs. Cathy M. Krynicki Lauren M. (Jamison) Huber Adria Lindquist Margaret M. Giacoponello Quisqueya Gonzalez In Honor of Class of 1987 communities of Spellman— In Memory of Fr. Francis J. Corry '65 Dorothy A. Krynicki '70 Donna A. LaSpina James Szigethy Deirdre Gibbons Alexis D. Henry Kimberley K. (Burgess) Capers '87 communities that have been Patrice E. (Liquori) Athanasidy ’84 Laura Marino Catherine E. McGuire Carmen Gomez-Cuevas Dawn L. (Wilson) Murchison ➤ 1991 Kim Hehir disproportionately impacted William H. Athanasidy '76 In Memory of Michael F. Lynch '88 Stefanie A. (Schmid) Ural In Honor of Class of 1988 Qadry P. Harris '10 Mary A. Lynch '78 Michele A. Schum Patricia Marino Kristin Kurtenbach Christine M. (Smith) Scotti-Keane Kristen O'Hagan Foti Jennifer Lana-Etzel Andrea G. Isaacs, M.D. '88 In Memory of Vera De Cesare Ann Marie (Giacoponello) Stich ➤ 2006 In Honor of Thomas O'Shea Martha D. (De Cesare) Perlmutter '70 In Memory of Paul T. Lynch Mary J. (Lane) Taylor John McGrath Rebecca J. (Grandison) Akinyooye In Honor of Class of 1989 Anonymous Donor Mary A. Lynch '78 Marisol Torres Hogan McGrath Heidi L. Idrovo Julissa M. Rosado '89 In Memory of James M. Dee '78 Nancy A. Tracy DePasquale ➤ 1992 Rita Minelli Marianne (Lizzo) Ventrice Debra (Symulevich) Adler Kyle O'Donnell In Honor of William Wassmann Joseph E. Heckman '78 In Memory of Mary M. (McCarthy) Lisa Juncaj ➤ 2008 In Honor of Class of 1994 Teresa H. (Wassmann) Neal '71 Francis G. Hoare '78 McMullin '77 James P. Ward Daniel P. O'Keefe and Lucille A. Dennis G. Tejada Collin Smith '94 Anonymous Donor Daniela LaRosa-Quarrie Lacovara-O'Keefe Craig A. Quarrie In Honor of Rocquelle A. Jeri, Esq. '67 In Memory of Mr. Andrew & Mrs. Rose ➤ 1985 Peter Pilsner ➤ 2009 Vanessa Rodriguez In Honor of Class of 1995 Rocquelle A. Jeri '67 Delli Paoli In Memory of Edward J. Michaelson Anonymous Donor Jennifer A. Espady Pilar A. (Olivares) Alvarado '95 Rosangela (Delli Paoli) Renz '73 (Band Director) Leonard A. Boccia, Jr. ➤ 1993 Thomas Siegel Natalee Rivera In Honor of Tawnia A. McCray '85 Kathleen T. Erickson '66 Kathleen Cappelli Brian A. Badillo Sharon Singh Janice B. Tomlinson In Honor of Class of 2005 Monique M. McKnight-Meacham '85 In Memory of Joyce C. DiMauro '74 Maureen A. Corbett Robert G. Zerafa Mary Wirth Quisqueya Gonzalez '05 Doreen E. (King) Kinsley '74 In Memory of Gloria I. Ortiz '86 John T. Doyle Vincent J. Lisanti, Jr. ➤ 1994 ➤ 2010 ➤ IN HONOR GIFTS Stefanie A. (Schmid) Ural '05 In Honor of Allison Melendez '20 Debbie J. Vigliotti '74 Michael J. Pagan '86 Michelle A. Boncardo In Honor of Class of 1963 Wilfredo Melendez '85 Monique M. McKnight-Meacham Michelle (Conway) Conway-Breimer Qadry P. Harris Lorraine M. (Rolleri) Hartman '63 In Honor of Class of 2014 In Memory of Kevin R. Dobbins '69 In Memory of Orio J. Palmer '74 Wilfredo Melendez Letisha Marrero-Rivera Lauren A. Lugo Yomara Colon In Honor of Christopher Morales '00 Kenneth Conicelli '69 Doreen E. (King) Kinsley '74 Christopher M. Miranda Jamara N. Posey-Tapper Nicholas A. Mancini In Honor of 1- E. 1963 Kristin Kurtenbach Seamus F. O'Callaghan Tashana (Johnson) Siller MSW Barbara J. Casey '67 In Honor of Class of 2015 In Memory of Brother Arnold of Mary In Memory of John R. Rigley '69 Eileen A. (Evers) Patton Collin Smith ➤ 2011 Caitlin N. McHugh '15 In Honor of John M. O'Toole '68 Fitzsimmons Kenneth Conicelli '69 Maria M. Porco-Rosa Veronica Velez Anonymous Donor In Honor of Class of 1965 Kathleen M. O'Toole '68 James P. O'Sullivan '66 Jeremy White Joseph P. DeMarzo-Sanchez Camille V. (Napolitano) Rapisarda '65 In Honor of Class of 2021 In Memory of Harold Romero '88 ➤ 1986 Halim Wise Yomara Colon In Honor of Tamara L. Rivera-Velez '99 In Memory of Silvio L. Galano '79 Veronica R. (Romero) Guerrero '84 Anonymous Donor ➤ 2013 In Honor of Class of 1968 Tiffany N. (Soriano) Dito '99 Theresa M. (Orosz) DeNisco '79 Eileen M. Cruz ➤ 1995 In Honor of Ms. Florence L. Di Mauro In Memory of Kim (Pomaro) Salveggi '92 John S. Drew Pilar A. (Olivares) Alvarado Anonymous Donors (x2) Daniel A. Agosto '68 Elisa N. Ferrara Teresa M. Di Mauro '75 In Honor of Bob "Bobby Bells" Romeo '74 In Memory of Mark S. Gaston '69 Debra (Symulevich) Adler '92 Karen A. (Sullivan) Fogarty Meaghan M. (McCarthy) Brickowski Aliya C. F. Herndon In Honor of Class of 1970 James B. Slattery '74 Kenneth Conicelli '69 John R. Mascia Jose A. Stevenson Gina-Marie Madio Catherine M. (Dunkel) Bookless '70 In Honor of Julie A. Dimperio In Memory of Michael W. Scott '87 Michael J. Pagan LaShawna K. Thompson Holowach '74 In Honor of Rexford B. Tomlinson '11 In Memory of Miriam E. Gilligna '68 Margaret I. (Monroe) Woods '87 Michael J. Quinn ➤ 2014 In Honor of Class of 1972 Judith-Noelle Lamb '74 Janice B. Tomlinson '09 Patrick G. Boyle '71 Naomi A. (Lowery) Sinclair ➤ 1996 Michael O. Iyiade Kevin S. Finnegan '72 In Memory of Claire E. (Scully) Trina S. Slade-Burks Jennifer B. (Rivera) Velez Tyler J. Smyth In Honor of Talon Robert Francis ➤ IN MEMORIUM GIFTS In Memory of The Rev. Msgr. Richard McRell '70 Nicole J. Solis In Honor of Class of 1974 Adrienne W. (Wheeler) Francis '79 In Memory of Robert M. Adrian, M.D. '64 J. Guastella Kathleen B. Scully Hodges '66 Mary A. (Keane) Walkin ➤ 1997 Joseph J. Rincione '64 Rosemarie A. (Cucuzzo) Farenga '66 Anonymous Donor ➤ 2015 Pamela A. Perrone, Ph.D. '74 Lillian E. Reyes '74 In Honor of AnnaMaria (Carpana) In Memory of Bro. E. James Stolz ➤ 1987 Richard A. Berardi Melissa Castillo Genova '80 In Memory of Stephen M. Aladits '73 In Memory of James (Jimmy) B. Lenworth N. Johnson '74 Kimberley K. (Burgess) Capers Simone R. Brown Caitlin N. McHugh In Honor of Class of 1977 Anonymous Donor Robert J. Nikl '73 Gunshanan '67 Elizabeth M. Garvey Sherise T. Malachi-Wright Margaret M. Hunt-Gunshanan '68 In Memory of Rev. Aldo J. Tos Michele Y. Ifill ➤ 2016 Michael J. Crowe '77 Kathleen A. Schneider-Ruiz '77 In Honor of Delores M. Cosquer In Memory of Lloyd and Nola Anderson George J. Morris '66 Suzanne N. James ➤ 1999 Julia R. Haas Bernadette M. (Giangrossi) Weidman '77 Lenworth N. Johnson '74 Gail T. Anderson '80 In Memory of Mr. James P. Heekin, Esq. Catherine M. (Paredes) Lisanti Jantra M. Coll Alyssa M. Looney Dorothy A. Krynicki '70 In Memory of Joaquin Velez Jane E. Manning Tovah C. Cummings In Honor of all my teachers! Louis G. Altieri '68 In Honor of Class of 1978 In Memory of Daniel Barden Sheila D. Solomon Tiffany N. (Soriano) Dito ➤ 2017 Donata Fulgione '76 Laura (Ricuito) Marino '84 In Memory of Estela Ledea Garcia Eileen Torres Edward J. Gajda IV Anonymous Donors (x2) Cathleen E. (Donnelly) Deegan '78 Orestes A. Rosabal '69 In Memory of Audrey L. Walwyn Margaret I. (Monroe) Woods ➤ 2000 In Honor of Fred and Mary Studer Charles A. Walwyn, Jr. '65 Kristel A. Johnson '78 In Memory of Nicholas A. Bartlett '78 Christopher Morales ➤ 2018 Frederick E. Studer '64 Juliann (Richardson) Gaddy '78 In Memory of all our deceased ➤ 1988 Shade F. McFarlane clasmates from the Class of 1987 In Honor of Class of 1979 Anonymous Donor In Honor of Herman E. Solis In Memory of Mr. James J. Begendorf '79 Suzanne N. James '87 Thomas J. McCarthy '79 Susan M. Cardillo Nicole J. Solis '86 Victoria A. A. Dengel '79 Neil C. McDaid '79 Darrick B. Fuller Daniel N. O'Brien '79 Andrea G. Isaacs, M.D.14 | SPRING 2021 SPELLMAN SPELLMANMAGAZINE MAGAZINE|| 15

consideration of larger issues regarding the condition “fish” in Greek, was an acrostic for “Jesus Christ, Son of of the chapel. One was the location of the tabernacle. God, Savior.” The mosaic is thereby telling us that the The rationale for having moved the tabernacle off to the true meal at the last supper is “Jesus Christ, Son of God, side was due to a common misreading of the liturgical Savior,” For Christ has changed bread (such as he holds documents of the Second Vatican Council. Subsequent in his hand in the mosaic) into his very self. This is the documents have clarified that it is still perfectly same sacred meal that is present on the altar during acceptable for a tabernacle to be in the center of the every mass. sanctuary. Christ is the center of our lives, and his Real Presence in the Eucharist is unique. Hence, it is most As meaningful as this symbolism is, this type of the appropriate for the tabernacle to be the center and the art is difficult for young people to relate to today given focus of any worship space. that it is highly stylized and typical of the modern, experimental art that was prominent in the sixties. This decision to move the tabernacle back to the The thought arose, could this art be replaced with center of the student chapel required other changes. another style of art, of equal quality, more powerful and In its new location, the tabernacle would constrain relatable to students, and with the kind of beauty that the space behind the altar where the priest would would draw them into the chapel to pray? After much stand, and hardly allow him room to genuflect. Thus, searching, we commissioned artist, Paul Armesto to St. Pius X Student the altar would need to be moved further toward the submit sketches. Paul works in the classical style, pews to create extra space. This made room for another using techniques that date back to the Renaissance. possibility – could the base of the altar, made of cinder He has worked in several churches in the New York Chapel Renovations blocks and marble veneer, be replaced with a more noble area, and produces paintings remarkable for their looking structure? Fortunately, Artisan Restoration dynamism, expression, color, and realism. was willing to sell us a base for an altar that it had removed from another church. It was made of wood, in Paul was asked to sketch two biblical scenes to paint the neo-classical style, and Artisan Restoration painted on the wooden paneling to the left and right of the it to have the appearance of marble, matching it to the mosaic, and a background scene on canvas for the area The chapel renovation of 2020 marks the second major since the altar was not a single, solid object that could original Carrara marble of the surface of the altar. They behind the tabernacle, which would cover the mosaic. change in the St. Pius X Student Chapel (in Memory of be moved. The base was made of cinderblocks, which were also able to provide matching structures for the (The canvases in front of the mosaic are removable, in Mercedes and Rafael Collado) since it's construction actually extended through the wooden platform and reading stand and for the table for the new tabernacle. the event that alumni who wish to gather for Mass in in 1962. The original chapel was designed for Mass as rested on the concrete surface underneath. Thin sheets the chapel, request to see the mosaic which is part of it was celebrated before the Second Vatican Council. of marble veneer were then glued to the cinderblocks. With these changes, there was now an opportunity to their memories of Spellman.) The scenes for the left and The altar was against the wall, directly in front of the The surface of the altar, a solid piece of Carrara marble, reimagine the artwork. The original mosaic behind right walls on either side of the mosaic were chosen for mosaic. A tabernacle was on the altar. The priest offered was placed on top of these. the altar is a respectable work of art, brought over from their relevance to the experiences of our students. One Mass facing the same direction as the people. There Italy in sections, assembled aspect of life that students value was also an altar rail. Above the middle of the sanctuary The other major change was that the original circular in the chapel, and cemented deeply is family. They want their was a skylight. It had a stained-glass window and a tabernacle was replaced with a box-shaped one and to the concrete wall. The families to be united, supportive, light fixture that featured small metal strips, possibly mounted on a wooden base. This base was positioned in symbolism is thought- and strong, and they suffer an artistic representation of the mana that fell from the corner of the sanctuary, against the wall. In addition, provoking. Instead of the deeply when there is family heaven. At some point, the words “I will be with you the altar rail was removed, and the words on the mosaic expected Passover lamb on disruption. Hence, one scene always” were painted onto the mosaic. were either painted over or removed. the table, a fish is depicted, would be the Holy Family on while Jesus holds a small their return from Israel to their Shortly thereafter, there was a major renovation of the The recent renovation of the chapel happened for loaf of bread. The fish on homeland. chapel, in order to implement the changes in the liturgy several reasons. It began as an effort to make repairs. the table brings to mind the after Vatican II. The main change was to move the altar Several kneelers had become broken, the wooden early Christian symbol of the Another aspect of life that forward from the wall, so that the priest could stand seats on some of the pews had split apart, and one of ichthus, a simple drawing of students speak of often is behind it and offer mass facing the congregation. This the stained glass windows was broken. These repairs a fish that was meaningful to perseverance in the face of reconstruction must have been a major undertaking, (done by Artisan Restoration in Yonkers) occasioned a Christians because the word painful or even overwhelming16 | SPRING 2021 SPELLMAN MAGAZINE | 17

stress. So the other scene would be one in which Christ, The Mary we see in this painting is not the sheltered are perishing?” and when he stands and says, “Quiet! Be by his divine power, brought peace to his apostles Mary of the annunciation, but the Mary who has still!” The apostles, some of whom are fishermen who when they were overwhelmed with terror, which is experienced two of the seven sorrows. Her face shows fully appreciate the perils of storms on the Sea of Galilee, the scene of Christ calming the storm. During the the strength of one who has suffered, but who has also are convinced that they are on the brink of death. Here, execution of the artwork it became apparent that persevered, and who, by the light of the Holy Spirit, the artist has rendered a fascinating composition. the spaces above the windows could be included has pondered the workings of God’s providence in her Each one of the apostles is reacting differently to the for artwork. Two quotes from Sacred Scripture were life and arrived at insight and wisdom. Joseph is with ultimate fear, the fear of death, and thereby shows the chosen to be rendered in Latin, which is still studied her in the boat, gripping the side to steady himself. various ways human beings respond to stress, fear, or at Spellman. This benefit of Latin is particularly The gesture reminds us that while he has dedicated even terror. One is paralyzed by fear, staring into space. evident during international gatherings of Catholics, himself to protecting and providing for Jesus and Another buries his face in his hands, as if to deny the for example, papal audiences in Rome. Catholics from Mary, none of these challenges have been easy for him. event is happening. One throws up his hands to heaven, different nations and cultures all unite in chanting Yet, like Abraham, he is prepared to do what God asks pleading for help. Two others look to Jesus for hope. together the Pater Noster (the Our Father in Latin). him to do, and to go where God asks him to go. The Christ child is the one most at peace, his eyes lifted up. Amidst the fear and chaos, Jesus stands erect, chalice of Christ’s blood, poured out from his side and The two sentences in the Though a child, he belongs to a projecting strength and peace, ready to bring calm to made present to us on the altar during Mass. She looks chapel are quotations from dimension that rises above the the storm. It is noteworthy that of all the figures painted away from the crucifix in sadness, as if the sight of the the Latin Vulgate (the official circ*mstances of life, which is in the chapel, Jesus is the only one gazing directly suffering of Christ is too much to bear. The other angel Latin translation of the Bible). ruled by the providence of God toward the viewer. He is inviting each of us to bring holds a monstrance, which was designed to be a replica On the right, near the scene and the power of the Holy Spirit. him our own storm or chaos, whether inner stress or of the new monstrance in use in the student chapel. The of the calming of the storm, is Students looking at his image anxiety, or life circ*mstances that is beyond our control. angels are wearing the school colors, red and white, but a line from the story of Jesus can be reminded that they can He offers us strength and peace, reminding us that he that is merely a happy coincidence. Paul Armesto was calming the storm (Mark 4:40). pray to the Holy Child. They can is God and inviting us to faith. “Why are you afraid? Do not aware of this when he painted them. On the left side of the chapel, approach him in his humanity at you not yet have faith?” It is hoped that students who above the windows, is a verse this stage of his life, when he is are enduring fear or stress of any kind will, by reflecting A final detail to notice is the shield on the front of the from the Gospel of Luke (Luke small, approachable, and clearly on this image of Jesus, be encouraged in their faith and altar. The symbols of the shield were taken from the 2:51) which offers a general non-threatening. come to possess the peace and strength they see in him. coat of arms of St. Pius X. The anchor (which also makes description of the inner life an appearance in the scene of the calming of the storm) of Mary and her reflection on The artist was asked to depict The center canvases behind the altar are the artistic is the anchor of hope, referenced in the Letter to the her many experiences as the Jesus and Mary so as to show centerpiece of the composition, and combine the Hebrews. There the author tells us that by God’s promise Mother of Jesus. their intimacy. Mary holds him painted images of the angels with the crucifix. The and God’s oath: close, with motherly tenderness. crucifix is surrounded by rays of light, showing that it The mural in the left represents This reminds us of her personal, is both historical and eternal. Historical as the saving the Holy Family in Egypt on maternal love for each one of sacrifice of calvary in Jerusalem, eternal as the one “two immutable things, in which it was their way home to Nazareth. This scene of the Holy us. Overall, the image conveys the message that in sacrifice eternally impossible for God to lie, we who have taken Family is different from the very warm and peaceful spite of the challenges the Holy Family has had to face in the presence refuge, might be strongly encouraged to hold presentation of the birth of Jesus in the Stable. Here, – exile from home, fleeing mortal danger, surviving in of the Father and fast to the hope that lies before us. This we the Holy Family has already experienced many a strange land, returning to an uncertain future – they made present to us have as an anchor of the soul, sure and firm, difficulties. They have traveled from Nazareth to have the strength to overcome everything because they on the altar at every which reaches into the interior behind the Bethlehem for the census. They have endured the are united in love as a family. As the saying goes, “If mass. Two angels veil, where Jesus has entered on our behalf poverty of the stable. They have heard the heavy words you have family, you have everything.” Students can be adore this mystery. of Simon that “this child will be a sign of contradiction,” reminded that in a world that places exaggerated value The eyes of one are as forerunner, becoming high priest forever and to Mary, “Your own heart a sword will pierce.” They on power, popularity, and earthly possessions, the gift open, and those of according to the order of Melchizedek.” have also had to flee from Bethlehem to Egypt to protect of family and dedication to family is where true growth the other are closed, (Hebrews 6:19-20) the Christ child. They have spent perhaps a year or so and happiness lies. symbolizing the there, until the death of Herod. The angel has told them mystery of life and There is also a star, another sign of hope with multiple that it is safe to go back, but the fact that they have fled The mural on the left is the calming of the storm, (Mark death. The angel references in scripture (such as the star of Bethlehem) from danger makes them aware that unknown dangers 4:36-41). The artist captures the scene after Jesus has on the right with and a celebration of Jesus’ Jewish ancestry as the may lie ahead. been awakened with the words “do you not care that we open eyes holds the promised Messiah.18 | SPRING 2021 SPELLMAN MAGAZINE | 19

It was important to both students and faculty alike to be STUDENT STORIES back in the building, and have some sense of normalcy to our learning experience. The protocols implemented have allowed me, faculty, and fellow students to feel safe and secure while enjoying the Spellman experience. I am grateful to be able to attend school in person and be in the place that I love, doing what I love. Everything has changed, but Spellman’s resilient and adaptive spirit has proven stronger. Truthfully, there has been a learning curve for everyone during these times, and it wasn’t always easy. At first, it was difficult adjusting to at home learning, but with time it was much easier to manage. I had to get used to not seeing many people in person, and taking many initiatives to keep myself motivated. I always look forward to my in-person days. It is always exciting knowing I will see a few of my friends and teachers at school. After school I get to participate in activities such as Stage Crew, and Lacrosse. Many of the clubs that I participated in meet virtually every week, and we are just as productive now as we were while in person. Although I will always prefer being in person rather than online, Spellman was always there to help guide students STUDENT GOVERNMENT STEPS UP IN THE through the transition. MIDST OF THE PANDEMIC A DAY IN I always make sure that I stay in touch with my friends as Through rain or sunshine, nothing has Sydney Wilson, and Skylar Bailey are all express their feelings and pray for change, THE LIFE stopped student activities at Spellman, even proud members of the class of 2021. these school leaders lead the way to make a some are remote and others in the midst of a pandemic when everyone video montage of students, faculty, and staff are in a different cohort than had to adapt to teaching, learning, and The process for electing officials began with the who were in the building as a way to show OF A PILOT I am. My friends and I have really put group chats and interacting in a virtual space. Like any other virtual ring ceremony at the start of the school solidarity and compassion. social media to good use, beginning of the school year, students year, and the inauguration of this year’s Student staying in touch throughout started off adjusting to their new routine, Government President, Vice President, Additionally, Student Government assists We asked one of our students to reflect on her experiences the day and during lunch just but their interests in clubs and activities and Executive Council. Shortly thereafter, clubs in advertising their events. The Black over the past two months, to help us gain insights into a day like we normally would. Throughout everything, the energy never failed to pique. Once they hit the a student-controlled Instagram account Heritage Society had their annual Black in the life of a Pilot in the midst of a pandemic. at Spellman has never changed. On my one day a week that I ground running, huge strides were made in was created as a means of keeping students History show and a fundraiser with proceeds eagerly look forward to, I am met with the same closeness and this year’s Student Government cohort. connected with one another. The festivities of going towards workshops and the NAACP. Stephanie Brown ’22 is a junior at Cardinal Spellman High enthusiasm that Spellman is known for." the holiday season were equally thoughtful and Also, the Asian American Club delighted School. Her adaptability, strength, and resilience are the true Student Government is led by some of our well planned. From dress downs, to hosting a the Spellman community with Chinese New definition of Spellman Strong, and are what guide her through We are all so proud of Stephanie’s ability to find the silver brightest and strongest young women. This virtual Christmas show, and topping it off with Year facts, and the Cooking Club has been these challenging times. lining. At Spellman the measure of success is not just about is the first Executive Council in a very long our annual Give-A-Gift Program, our Student sharing fun and simple recipes students can how well we keep our students and teachers safe; it is also "During the pandemic, our lives were completely transformed, time to be held by all-female leaders, who Government moved mountains to ensure that do at home. how thoroughly we embrace the business of learning, for and we entered a new reality no one could have imagined. Stephanie and all of our students. have paved the way for alternative ways the spirit of Spellman was alive and strong One day in March of 2020 I left school as usual; 5:00 pm after to continue some of Spellman’s classic amidst our new normal. Acclimating freshmen is also on the Student practice, and unknowingly to me, the next day would be my last Stephanie has been working with News12 as an Education events and traditions in this new virtual age. Government’s checklist. Sophom*ores led by for a very long time. Since that point, we’ve come a long way as a Ambassador and vlogging her academic experiences this year. Student Government’s President NiaGrace Since the beginning of the New Year, Joshua Johnson ’23 and Kyla Warren ’23, country, and as a school community. Steele ’21, and Vice-President Ashante feelings of contempt and isolation have been hosted a mixer to get to know the incoming Gallimore ’21, are both dedicated to making exacerbated, particularly for our students. freshmen who had a very different first-year the best during these unprecedented times This deeply resonated with members of the high school experience. Other fun events by ensuring that student government Student Government who quickly sprung organized by our student leaders included members, classmates, faculty, and staff feel into action, taking the lead to address the Nissih Onigbinde ’22, along with the junior connected even when interacting remotely. concerns, issues, and emotions that their senators, playing trivia, hosting a virtual Fellow council members Darryna Guy- fellow Spellmanites were experiencing due scavenger hunt, and planning a special class Williams, Shirley Mitchell, Omega Barnett, to the pandemic. Needing an outlet to ring ceremony.20 | SPRING 2021 SPELLMAN MAGAZINE | 21

STUDENT STORIES CARDINAL SPELLMAN HIGH SCHOOL ANNOUNCES 2021 WINNERS OF JOHN F. WARD SCHOLARSHIPS TEACHER HIGHLIGHT Cardinal Spellman High School is pleased to announce the recipients of the John F. Ward ’66 Vietnam RITA PILIERO Veteran Patriot Award for 2021. The $5,000 annual scholarship, based on an essay competition, DUTY: God, Honor and Country, has been awarded to seniors Evan Ke and Zoe Chambers-Daniel. The Cardinal Spellman High School is certainly blessed to have some of the most scholarship has been made possible from a generous donor in memory of his friend, P.F.C. John F. extraordinary teachers guiding our students. Mrs. Rita Piliero is no exception. Mrs. Ward. After graduating from Cardinal Spellman in 1966, John Francis Ward attended basic training Piliero is currently part of Spellman’s science department and moderator of the 4G at Fort Jackson, South Carolina and was designated ’11 Bravo 40’ light weapons infantry. He then (Go Green Garden Group) Club. She is also known as being the cross-country and track completed Advanced Individual Training in infantry tactics and advanced weaponry, and arrived in coach from 1983-1998. Notably, Mrs. Piliero is a CSHS Hall of Famer and a recipient of the Vietnam in early July 1969. P.F.C. Ward was killed during nighttime combat operations in Vietnam on 2019 Sequere Deum Award. October 6th of that same year, 25 days before his 21st birthday. It takes a unique vocation to teach in a Catholic school and Mrs. Piliero has dedicated more than 30 years doing Evan Ke graduated from St. Mary’s School on Carpenter Ave. He has received honors each year at so. Mrs. Piliero selflessly offers her gift of time and her steadfast dedication to Spellman’s students. Spellman and is taking three Advanced Placement courses as a senior. Evan plays on the Lacrosse team, runs Track and Cross Country, and is a member of the Academic Challenge Team, Robotics COVID-19 has not affected her impact, or contributions to our students. She was a News12 Education Club, Legion of Mary, Gaming and Anime Club and a STAR. After graduation, he plans on studying Ambassador, where she created a series of videos detailing what it’s like to be a teacher during the pandemic. Also, computer engineering, possibly at Stony Brook University. Zoe Chambers-Daniel graduated from earlier in the year, Mrs. Piliero’s class worked on a project that dealt with researching the spread of COVID-19. Holy Rosary School in the Bronx. She has received the Diamond S Award for attaining 1st honors all Students had to graph their findings, along with adding visual representations of numerous events that occurred in four years, is currently a member of the National Honor Society, and is taking Advanced Placement 2020. Mr. Kyle O’Donnell, Assistant Principal for Academics, wrote to Governor Andrew Cuomo about it (seeing English Literature and Composition. Zoe is also a STAR, a member of the Legion of Mary and the as the project was based off of his famous COVID-19 poster) and he responded Book Club, in addition to being youth choir leader at church. She plans on studying psychology in commending Mrs. Piliero and her students. college, hoping to attend either Columbia or NYU. Mrs. Piliero will be retiring this upcoming June. Cardinal Spellman High School will truly miss her generous spirit and wishes her much happiness on her future endeavors. the replacement of damaged Chromebooks as well as restoring ROBOTICS CLUB NEWS ADMINISTRATOR/ gently used ones that she then donates to our partner elementary ALUMNI HIGHLIGHT schools. The Robotics Club, in partnership with Engineering Tomorrow, started a virtual lab series, consisting of four parts: Bridges, Machine Learning, Aerodynamics, and Water ROBBIN HARRISON ’81 Treatment. Each lab has an Engineer in the field who talks about the work they are Dan O’Keefe, President and Principal of Cardinal Spellman High School, explains why her role has been vital to our success: “She involved in. Additionally, they introduce to the students expectations of the lab. The Ms. Robbin Harrison '81, Director of students, working at home, have two hours to build their project. When time is up has been one of the most important people to keep our school Technology, has gone above and beyond they enter the meeting again and meet two engineering students who talk about their going during the pandemic; we haven’t missed a single day of to keep our students, faculty, and experiences at college and why they have chosen engineering as their field of study. instruction, and that’s thanks to Ms Harrison.” staff connected during the pandemic. Having served as a Police Officer for over 25 years, Ms. Harrison made the decision to The bridge lab was introduced by Civil Engineer Edgar Martinez, who worked on the Our teachers are still able to offer the best Catholic School return to her roots by joining the Spellman faculty, bringing her Third Avenue bridge replacement. Spellman students, Anthony Ramos ’22, Jessica's education in NYC; our students are able to learn, interact with multifaceted expertise. Zheng ’24, Emily Adon-Rosario ’24, Bashir Rashid ’24, and Jonell Henriques ’24 one another, and take exams. During times of uncertainty, it is a blessing to maintain a level of normalcy. Spellman has become completed their bridges and tested their designs by seeing how many books the bridges Right before the country went into lockdown, Ms. Harrison could hold. Jonell Henriques ’24 represented Spellman and was able to present his the role model for distance learning and it’s mainly in part of the had the foresight to pre-order Chromebooks for the school bridge design, which held the weight of four books. role Ms. Harrison has played. sensing how much we would rely on them in the coming months. Although this academic school year has faced its challenges, The Robotics Club members were grateful for the opportunity to participate in the When she is not busy keeping Spellman connected to The Cloud, Ms. Harrison has worked tirelessly to provide tech support Bridge Lab and are enthusiastic for the upcoming labs. The members meet every Robbin enjoys rescuing wildlife, traveling, and partaking in a for hundreds of students and teachers each day. She has been Wednesday and are currently building electrical circuits along with coding the myriad of sports, particularly supporting Spellman’s Golf Outing instrumental with the scholarship exams, placement tests, and computers that control them. each year. parent/teacher virtual conferences, to name a few. She handles22 | SPRING 2021 SPELLMAN MAGAZINE | 23