Magnificat Magazine | Winter 2026

WINTER 2026

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Beth Haas ’94, Chairperson

Catherine Woskobnick, Vice Chairperson

Lilian Reyes Cindric, CPA ’86, Treasurer

Martin Berry, Secretary

Bridget Barrett ’86

Barbara Waitkus Billings ’86

Molly McCarthy Connell ’00

Brittan Burke DiSanto ’79

Katherine Beirne Fallon ’94

Meredith Lahl Foxx ’95

Jennifer Coughlin Kennedy ’95

Thomas J. Kennedy

Douglas C. Kuhlman

Kelly Compiseno Lamirand ’94

Ann Lutz

Colleen Mountcastle ’91

Sean Nugent

Kathleen Casey Proctor ’89

Shameka Jones Taylor

LEADERSHIP TEAM

Moira Clark ’77, President

Katie Higgins ’99, Senior Vice President of Mission and Strategic Initiatives

Angie Boie, Dean of Student Life and Formation

Colleen Greller, Dean of Faculty and Academics

Julie D’Alessandro, Vice President of Operations

Deborah Durbin ’81, Vice President of Advancement

Janetta M. Hammock, Vice President of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging

Nikki Clevenger Mohar ’89, Vice President of Enrollment and Marketing

CONTRIBUTORS

Caitlin MacBride Berg ’10, Director of Alumnae Relations

Alee Burke, Assistant Director of Communications

Mary Cay Doherty, School Archivist and History Faculty Member

Maggie Mroz Lamb ’84, Director of Development

Lexi Majoros, Associate Director of Communications

Teresa Messmore, Director of Communications

Chris Rini Slyman ’84, Advancement Associate

COVER PHOTO: School Archives, David Cleveland/Photodac

PHOTOGRAPHY: Photos throughout by Caitlin MacBride Berg ’10, Alee Burke, Cavanaugh

Photography, and Lexi Majoros.

DESIGN: Teresa Messmore

Dear friends,

Magnificat’s legacy of excellence in athletics traces back to our founding by the Sisters of the Humility Mary, who firmly believed that physical education was an important component of a holistic education. While there were not formal interscholastic athletic associations for girls in this area in 1955, the Sisters made sure students exercised and learned how to play sports—and then helped start a league. The passage of Title IX led to more athletic opportunities for girls in the 1970s, which I benefited from as a member of our basketball team. Countless alumnae have gone on to compete in college, and many have built careers connected to athletics a few of which are featured in this issue of Magnificat Magazine.

Today, women’s sports are on the upswing as national figures like Caitlin Clark give greater visibility to the value of professional leagues.

Magnificat continues to lead in our area at the high school level, forming one of the state’s first girls’ teams for flag football—which is becoming an official OHSAA sport—and being one of the few girls schools in Ohio to hire a full-time Director of Strength and Conditioning.

Magnificat is committed to providing opportunities at all levels, from elite teams competing at the state level to incoming freshmen picking up a pickleball paddle for the first time or trying yoga during PE. Every student can benefit from physical activity and is encouraged to take part in some way during her time here.

If you have not been on campus for a while, I encourage you to attend a game or meet this winter or spring and enjoy the camaraderie of watching from the bleachers. You can also get involved by attending this year’s Magnificat Gala on March 7, which will draw guests into learning spaces around the building and conclude in the gymnasium. There is much to cheer about around Magnificat athletics, and we are grateful for our many fans. Go, Blue Streaks!

In the spirit of Mary’s Magnificat,

Moira Clark ’77 President

SNAPSHOTS

YouLead DEIB Workshop Series Receives Diversity Center Award

Magnificat was presented with the Diversity, Education, and Student Leadership Award from the Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio. Students joined Vice President of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) Janetta M. Hammock at the Center’s 71st Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration in November at Hotel Cleveland to receive the award for the school’s YouLead DEIB Workshop Series. The award recognizes individuals and groups that create meaningful change by advancing diversity, promoting education, and inspiring student leadership.

Medical Professionals Share Career Guidance

Experts from University Hospitals provided students interested in medicine with an in-depth exploration of clinical and anatomical pathology, highlighting educational pathways, career opportunities, and the wide range of specialized clinical laboratory departments within the field. Students participated in a question-and-answer session and gained hands-on experience examining samples under a microscope, bridging classroom concepts to real-world applications.

Model United Nations Participation Expands

Model United Nations is now one of Magnificat’s largest co-curricular programs, with 50 students having recently participated in a conference at Case Western Reserve University hosted by the Cleveland Council on World Affairs. Clare Brocklehurst ’28 (right) and Sofia ElHibir ’28 (left) were recognized with the Excellent Delegation distinction for their representation of Spain in the International Atomic Energy Agency, and Abby Schuler ’27 (center) received the prestigious Gavel Award for her representation of Suriname in the Economic and Social Council.

Student Presents Finding on Colon Cancer Research

Kathryn Dunn ’26 presented her research on the correlation between colon cancer and the absence of CFTR protein at the North American Cystic Fibrosis Conference in Seattle, Washington. Her project was part of the Research Institute for Children’s Health summer research program at Case Western Reserve University.

TECH CORPS Hackathon

Anakah Spaetzel ’28 (far right) was part of a winning team at the 2025 TECH CORPS Hackathon, a statewide mobile app development challenge. Over the course of 9 hours, she and her teammates developed an app to connect small food pantries across Lorain County and make them easier for residents to find. As a regional winner, Spaetzel received a gift card in recognition of creativity, teamwork, and commitment throughout the event.

Student Provides Medical Outreach in El Salvador

Maggie Ollerton ’26 (far right) traveled to El Salvador for a weeklong medical outreach trip with a group from St. Dominic Church, participating in medical brigades and working with patients.

“This was a great experience that allowed me to see a different side of healthcare,” Ollerton said. “I am so grateful to have been part of this amazing project.”

Dance Team Performs at Cleveland Cavaliers Halftime Show

The Magnificat Dance Team expanded its audience by performing at local collegiate and professional athletic events this school year. Students danced at John Carroll University’s home opener football game in September during halftime, and in December, both JV and varsity dancers performed at Rocket Arena for the Cleveland Cavaliers’ halftime show (pictured above).

Governor’s Merit Scholarships

Nine seniors received the Governor’s Merit Scholarship from the State of Ohio to attend any college or university in the state, representing the Top 5% of the senior class. Pictured left to right are Kylie Guiher ’26, Mikaela Davala ’26, Niamh Kernan ’26, Angela D’Souza ’26, Yongyi Mei ’26, Ally Liller ’26, Aliana Rangaya ’26, Megan Martin ’26, and Jenna Sanchez ’26.

Mei also received a full scholarship to Stanford University after being selected for a QuestBridge National College Match Scholarship. To see where other seniors plan to attend college, follow the Student Council’s @seniorstreaks Instagram account.

THE HM SISTERS’ INFLUENCE ON MAGNIFICAT ATHLETICS

By Mary Cay Doherty, School Archivist and Social Studies Faculty Member

Students pour out of classrooms and line the Magnificat hallways. They crane their necks and wait for the state championship-bound team to come into view. Applause and cheers erupt as the exuberant athletes sprint past peers and teachers.

This cherished “running the halls” tradition celebrates a team’s regular season accomplishments and encourages the athletes who are heading to state competitions.

Athletics has been integral to holistic education at Magnificat High School since Sister Claire Young (Mary Pius), HM, arrived to teach physical education in 1956. In the ensuing years, the HM Sisters and their lay partners expanded Magnificat’s athletic program to provide studentathletes with the opportunities and resources to hone their skills. More importantly, the sisters ensured that the program reflected Magnificat’s Mission and Values, and by extension, the HM Mission and Values.

As Magnificat’s first athletic director, Sister Claire laid a strong foundation. Beyond physical education classes, Magnificat students participated in intramural volleyball, tennis, basketball, baseball, and bowling teams in the late 1950s and 1960s.

Sister Claire also organized a “Septathlon” that, when it was first held in the spring of 1958, was actually an “Octatholon.” In this precursor to today’s Big-Little Challenge Cup, students competed by class in a series of events that included a shuttle relay, sit-ups, and a basketball throw.

For Sister Claire and the HM Sisters, athletic participation and a positive attitude were more important than athletic ability. When Magnificat instituted its varsity letter program in

the late 1950s, students could earn points toward a letter by wearing the regulation physical education uniform in gym class and for having “perfect posture at all times.”

In the late 1950s and 1960s, Magnificat had fledgling tennis, bowling, track, and golf teams that engaged in some interscholastic competition. Interscholastic girls’ athletic opportunities, however, did not become widespread until Congress passed the Higher Education Act of 1972. Title IX of this landmark legislation required colleges

Magnificat’s first Athletic Director, Sister Claire Young (Mary Pius), HM, instructing gym class in the 1960s.

The Magnificat track team in the 1970s. and universities with men’s athletic teams to also sponsor women’s teams. Soon after, many high schools also started competitive sports teams for girls.

By 1977, Magnificat was a member of the Greater Cleveland Catholic Girls’ Athletic Conference, fielding basketball, volleyball, and softball teams. Tennis, cross country, and track teams organized soon after. Later, around 1990, Magnificat made the difficult decision to leave the GCCGAC. An independent schedule provided more competition for Magnificat’s teams and increased college and university visibility for its student-athletes.

In the early 1970s, another HM Sister, the former Sister Donna Fiori, followed in Sister Claire’s footsteps and served as Magnificat’s athletic director. Later athletic directors Carol Brent Masler and Gloria Polzer remember Sister Donna’s stalwart support of Magnificat athletics even after she became the Guidance Department director in the 1980s. Polzer described Sister Donna as “a godsend,” adding, “Sister Donna definitely mentored me, guided me, and helped me to grow to become the athletic director I was when I left.”

Magnificat appears to have adopted the Blue Streak mascot around 1977. Sister Donna recalled that when students expressed a desire to have a school mascot, the HM Sisters empowered them to generate suggestions and vote on the new mascot. “Blue Streaks” won.

In the 1980s, former Principal Sister Carol Anne Smith, HM, led a capital campaign to construct a gymnasium and an athletic field as well as tennis courts, which are maintained today through the ongoing generosity of Ann Litzler Coyne ’88 and Terry

Coyne. Carol Brent Masler fondly recalls that Sister Carol Anne almost always attended home games and cheered on Blue Streak teams.

More broadly, Masler said, “the Sisters permeated every aspect of Magnificat” including its athletic program. Magnificat’s coaches and athletes have always understood playing with character mattered more than the score.

In her role as Vice President of Mission from 2009 to 2020, Sister Helen Jean Novy, HM, “coached” newly hired coaches about the HM history and heritage so they could better understand, mirror, and share the Magnificat Mission and Values with student-athletes.

Today, to fully align athletics with Magnificat’s Mission and Values, basketball and golf coach Danny Gallagher also serves as Associate Director of Coach and Athlete Formation. In this role, Gallagher keeps the HM history and heritage alive as he guides and supports approximately 70 coaches who interact with over 400 Magnificat student-athletes across 16 sports.

“The HM Mission and Values are not something we add on to our athletic

programs; they are the foundation of it,” Gallagher said. “Every practice, every team huddle, and every relationship is an opportunity to live out humility, service, and commitment to something greater than ourselves. In my role as Associate Director of Coach and Athlete Formation, I see myself as a partner with the Sisters, helping translate the spirit of the HM Mission into the daily experiences of our coaches and student-athletes. Athletics at Magnificat is about formation as much as competition. It’s a privilege to follow the legacy of the Sisters and walk alongside our coaches and athletes as we grow leaders who learn, lead, and serve in the spirit of Mary’s Magnificat.”

Since the days of Sister Claire, the HM history and heritage have shaped Magnificat’s athletic program. During their years of service at Magnificat, the Sisters themselves reflected and shared their Mission and Values and empowered their lay partners— coaches, faculty, and staff—to join in their ministry. In 2026, lay partners continue to ensure that Magnificat’s student athletes learn, lead, and serve in the spirit of Mary’s Magnificat on and off the field.

Leading the Pack for All Girls’ Health and Wellness: Introducing the Sr. Claire Young, HM, Fund

By Maggie Mroz Lamb ’84, Director of Development

Magnificat High School has long believed that educating young women holistically means nurturing the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—in the spirit of Mary’s Magnificat. Nearly 60 percent of our students participate in at least one of our 16 teams at Magnificat. Athletics and wellness play a vital role in that formation, shaping confident leaders, resilient teammates, and young women who understand the value of discipline, teamwork, and lifelong health.

Building on this commitment, Magnificat has launched a new initiative designed to identify and fund the greatest needs in athletics and wellness, positioning the school to become the preeminent leader in girls’ high school athletics while remaining firmly rooted in its Mission. A fund honoring Sr. Claire Young, HM, who passionately advocated for athletics and the importance of fitness for young women at Magnificat and surrounding schools has been created for all gifts in support of this initiative: the Sr. Claire Young, HM, Athletics Fund.

A Vision for Girls’ Athletics

This initiative reflects a clear and ambitious vision: to elevate girls’ sports through elite health, wellness, and athletic performance programs that support every student—whether she is a varsity athlete, a developing

competitor, or a student discovering fitness and wellness for the first time.

The greatest needs to be addressed through this initiative will be identified through an ongoing collaboration between school leadership and the Athletic Department. This flexible, mission-driven approach ensures that investments remain responsive to student needs, safety, and opportunities for growth.

Yoga, which is already part of the Campus Ministry Department’s Wellness Retreats, will be offered more often to students as part of Magnificat’s athletic and wellness initiative.

A Strong Foundation of Investment

Magnificat’s athletic and wellness program has been strengthened in recent years through the generosity and foresight of alumnae, parents, and friends who believe deeply in girls’ athletics. These transformative investments have included:

• Karnatz Family Field with multi-purpose turf

• Coyne Courts for tennis

• Gymnasium updates

• Smith Snack Shack with outdoor concessions

• Wellness curricula in health, physical education, Compass, and theology and co-curricular programs such as Hiking Club, Seeds of Service, and Students in Medicine

More recent investments have further elevated the student-athlete experience and reinforced Magnificat’s commitment to excellence and wellness:

• A new softball field

• An updated weight room designed for female athletes

• The addition of a Director of Strength and Conditioning, also certified in yoga instruction

• An Associate Director of Coach and Athlete Formation who oversees coaching staff to ensure consistent standards of leadership and Mission alignment across all athletic programs

Together, these improvements have expanded opportunities, strengthened safety and performance, and enhanced the overall athletic culture at Magnificat.

Looking Ahead: Priority Areas

As participation grows and expectations for girls’ athletics continue to rise, Magnificat is focused on addressing both immediate and long-term needs. Funding priorities currently identified include:

• A video scoreboard for the gymnasium

• Replacement bleachers with stair rails and scoring tables in the gym

• A new trophy case to celebrate student achievement

• A new rowing fleet

• Lights for the Karnatz Family Field

• Resurfacing of remaining sections of the track

• A video tower for the Karnatz Family Field

• Ongoing development of wellness programming in curricular and co-curricular dimensions of school life

The Smith Snack Shack brought outdoor concessions and restrooms to Magnificat’s athletic facilities in 2024.

These enhancements will improve safety, visibility, performance, and pride—while ensuring that Magnificat remains competitive and forward-thinking.

“This initiative is not a capital campaign,” President Moira Clark ’77 said. “Rather, it is a strategic effort supported by volunteers who share a belief in the transformative power of fitness and athletics for girls. By engaging the community in a thoughtful and intentional way, Magnificat seeks to sustain momentum and continue investing where it matters most.”

Forming Strong Women for the Future

At its core, this initiative is about more than facilities or equipment. It is about forming young women who are strong in body, confident in spirit, and prepared to lead with integrity. Through elite athletic and wellness programming, Magnificat continues to honor its Mission—empowering students to magnify their gifts and use them to learn, lead, and serve.

As this initiative unfolds, the Magnificat community is invited to join in supporting a vision where girls’ athletics and wellness are elevated, celebrated, and aligned with the school’s enduring Values. To discuss opportunities to invest in this initiative, please reach out to Vice President of Advancement Deborah Durbin ’81 at 440-331-1572, ext. 263, or Director of Development Maggie Mroz Lamb ’84 at 440-331-1572, ext. 268, or mlamb@maghs.org.

Every season includes at least one no-cut sport such as rowing, which will need a new fleet as the program continues to expand.

Blue Streak Broadcasting Network

Students adding live commentary to broadcasts of home games

By Teresa Messmore, Director of Communications

More students can get involved with athletics thanks to the introduction of the Blue Streak Broadcasting Network, a new co-curricular giving students hands-on experience in sports media. Broadcasts will be available through the Magnificat Sports YouTube channel, allowing families, alumnae, and fans to tune in remotely.

“They have been doing a really good job,” club moderator and Associate Director of Coach and Athlete Formation Danny Gallagher said. “I’m happy with the turnout and the dedication the girls have shown so far.”

Currently, the broadcasts run on modest equipment—a laptop, headsets, and a camera integrated with existing Hudl software—but plans are already underway to invest in more user-friendly, reliable technology. Beyond live commentary,

Jayne Fitzpatrick ’27 and Gemma Wichmann ’26 try Magnificat’s new sports broadcasting equipment.

Gallagher envisions BSBN evolving into something much bigger— mirroring a collegiate athletic department’s sports information operation. Students are interested in contributing sports photography, social media, statistics, and short articles, laying the foundation for a comprehensive, student-driven media team.

“When you look at the landscape of athletics right now, there are so many women working for sports networks in all different roles,” Gallagher said. “I think it’s awesome that we’re creating that opportunity for our girls at a young age.”

Students have also benefited from mentorship and collaboration with established high school broadcasting programs, including Saint Ignatius High School’s SIBN network, and will continue learning from industry professionals in the coming

months. This winter, the focus is on broadcasting home basketball games, with hopes to expand into lacrosse, softball, and other sports this spring.

About 20 students have expressed interest in participating, and senior Caitlyn Castro ’26 is one of several taking leadership roles so far. Sidelined from competing due to an injury, she is finding BSBN to be a meaningful way to stay involved in sports and support her classmates.

“This year, I hope BSBN continues to strengthen student engagement and builds an even stronger presence at school events,” said Castro, who plans to seek out a similar organization when she attends John Carroll University next year. “Looking ahead, I hope the club remains wellestablished and continues to offer leadership opportunities long after I graduate.”

Flag Football for Girls

Magnificat helps lead way for new OHSAA sport

Girls’ flag football has exploded in popularity in recent years, and Magnificat has been at the forefront in Ohio. What started as a one-off game several years ago evolved into a co-curricular offering, then a club sport, and finally a varsity sport competing against other schools in partnership with the Cleveland Browns. Last year, players participated in a clinic at Huntington Bank Field (pictured left), and Magnificat’s program, coached by Tanner Liptrap, now has enough interest for both varsity and junior varsity teams for the upcoming season. Magnificat will continue to be a host site for games during the 2026 season, and the school will offer a summer athletic camp for flag football for girls grades 4-9. This spring, the OHSAA is overseeing the sport's State Championship tournament, and girls’ flag football will become an official OHSAA varsity sport in the 2026-2027 school year.

Coach Q&A: Chris Johnson

Tennis coach has been guiding Blue Streaks to the highest levels of competition for 20 years

How did you get into coaching?

I actually started coaching during my junior year of high school at North Ridge Racquet Club. The new pro over there needed someone to help feed balls to the younger kids, and I needed money. I worked there and at Avon Oaks Country Club for 12 years, learning from high-level teaching pros, and it helped me pay for college. Work doesn’t seem like real work when you are passionate about what you are doing! I was then offered the JV girls coaching job at Avon Lake in 2001. I did that for one season and really enjoyed it, and then I accepted the Lakewood boys tennis position in 2002 and was there for 17 years.

W hat brought you to Magnificat?

I had a wonderful conversation with the new athletic director at the time, Rhonda Rickleman. Our visions were very similar. We both knew there was a lot of talent on the team, but what was missing was a positive culture of developing young women into leaders who are respectful, hard working, and show their faith by actions.

What are you most proud of from your time here?

I am extremely proud of the

connections I have made, not just with players, but with entire families.

I have had at least five former players come back to coach with me, and so many other players have gone onto success in life. I like to think the values, perseverance, problem solving, and work ethic I helped instill in them set them up for future success. We have also had multiple team and individual sportsmanship winners as well. Of course, our then state team titles and coaching Anna Roggenburk ’19 to back-to-back individual titles will always be amazing memories.

Why do you think Magnificat has such a strong legacy in athletics? There is tremendous support from the Athletic Department and administration for athletics. These are all programs that are competitive, but the main emphasis is to create programs that build these athletes into strong young women to give them a strong foundation for the future. I have coached at several schools, and the administration support is light years ahead of the other places. When you start to see other programs at Magnificat succeed, other teams want to follow suit.

From your perspective, what are some of the greatest strengths of Magnificat’s athletic program today? Let’s start with great coaches. Magnificat does a wonderful job of supporting their coaches, while also setting high standards. Next, the facilities are top notch which really creates a huge sense of pride. I love how the school highlights their past athletic success in order to show everyone what the expectations are which gives a huge amount of motivation. Finally, there is an amazing culture of support and dedication to competing the right way.

ATHLETICS

Getting Stronger

New Director of Strength and Conditioning expanding health and fitness opportunities

Article by Director of Communications Teresa Messmore; Video by Associate Director of Communications Lexi Majoros

Magnificat’s recent investment in additional personnel, technology, and equipment is helping athletes improve their physical fitness during the offseason, and plans are underway to expand health and wellness opportunities for all students through the physical education curriculum.

“As girls’ athletics has progressed in high school, the strength and conditioning part has become such a major piece for successful programs,” Athletic Director Paul Barlow said. “Our athletes needed to get bigger, stronger, and faster to play at the level that we expect our programs to be at.”

This fall the Athletic Department hired AJ Short as the Director of Strength and Conditioning, making Magnificat one of few all-girls schools in Ohio to have this full-time position. Short brings more than 10 years of experience, most recently at Saint Ignatius High School, and holds a BS in exercise science from John Carroll University and an MS in exercise physiology and adult fitness from the University of Akron. During his first few months at Magnificat, he has worked with teams on sport-specific conditioning programs using the recently renovated weight room and TeamBuildr software, which designs and tracks athlete training.

Previously, Magnificat outsourced conditioning to outside organizations that would come in and train athletes. Advantages of a full-time trainer, however, include closer communication with coaches, greater familiarity with athletes’ strengths and weaknesses, and expansion into other areas like nutrition and mental health.

“I consider myself an extension of all the sport coaches,” Short said. “The girls that have utilized the space have enjoyed what we’re doing in here. They can feel themselves getting stronger.”

A comprehensive strength and conditioning program can not only help improve athlete performance but also reduce injuries. With knowledge of which injuries are most likely in each sport, Short can structure training programs to strengthen the surrounding muscle groups and minimize or prevent injuries.

Looking ahead, the Athletic Department plans to expand opportunities to non-athletes so all students, as well as potentially faculty and staff, can participate. For example, Short is a certified yoga instructor and will offer classes after school. The introduction of adventure learning with a low ropes course or climbing structure could also gain interest from non-athletes. Ideas such as these support a culture of health and wellness as part of Magnificat’s holistic approach to education.

“We hope to have periods during the day where whether you’re an athlete or not an athlete, you can come down and use the fitness room,” Barlow said.

Scan to watch an interview with Director of Strength and Conditioning AJ Short

Field enhancements bring softball home to Karnatz Field

A new backstop and specialized equipment donated for Spring 2026 season

Karnatz Family Field is being retrofitted to accommodate a regulation softball field complete with a permanent backstop as part of Magnificat’s ongoing investment in athletic excellence. The project was inspired by the desire to host more home games—instead of playing off site at Elmwood Park—on a field that fully meets competitive specifications. Last year games moved to Magnificat’s turf, but the setup presented challenges, from batter’s boxes to a portable backstop to the overall layout.

“Once we saw how having the ability to play games on our turf field affected our players and coaches, we knew that creating a more permanent field setup would be a meaningful improvement for our softball program,” Athletic Director Paul Barlow said.

By continually improving and renovating athletic facilities, Magnificat strengthens its long-term vision of offering some of the best athletic spaces in the state, while also attracting prospective students to Magnificat. Features of the project include plans for a permanent backstop with ball-stop netting, sewn-in batter’s boxes within the turf, and additional bleacher seating behind the benches for fans. These upgrades will create a consistent, professional playing surface and an enhanced experience for players, coaches, as well as spectators.

By Alee Burke, Assistant Director of Communications

Developed through close collaboration between Magnificat’s facilities team, Head Softball Coach Eric Wheeler, the Athletic Department, and The Vasco Company, the project reflects a shared vision for excellence and functionality.

“This improvement not only elevates our softball program, but it also kicks off what we hope will be a broader focus on enhancing our athletic facilities as part of Magnificat’s long-term strategic plan,” Barlow said.

With the ability to host home games on campus and minimize weather-related disruptions previously caused by muddy fields offsite, the new stadium also opens the door to future tournaments, summer leagues, and youth events—further showcasing Magnificat athletics.

This project was made possible through the generous support of donors, with special recognition to Tom Kennedy, a current parent whose leadership and commitment helped bring the stadium from concept to reality. More than just a facility upgrade, the new softball stadium represents a progressive investment in Magnificat’s student-athletes and a powerful statement about the future of Blue Streak athletics.

Kate Ardire 26 GENESIS PROJECTS

LAKE ERIE CRUSHERS

“I completed my Genesis project with The Lake Erie Crushers, a minor league baseball team, at their stadium in Avon. I worked closely with my mentor, Jenny Krosolvic, who guided me throughout the entire process. Over three weeks for a total of 40 hours, I participated in a variety of hands-on activities, including overseeing game days and working with kids at the Crushers Kids Camp, where I managed the outfield station, helped campers run the bases, oversaw a scrimmage, and encouraged participation and sportsmanship. I also assisted with fan services during games by placing cashless venue signage, handing out coloring books, greeting attendees, and working in the team shop by checking out customers, restocking items, and passing out coupons. In addition, I created a financial literacy slideshow for a partnership with First Federal Lakewood, transferring trivia about banking, budgeting, saving, credit, and money into a Canva presentation.

What I enjoyed most was seeing how the entire team worked together and being able to learn a little bit about everything—from sales and customer service to event coordination and mentorship—while interacting with kids at camp and helping fans have a positive experience at games. Watching projects I contributed to, like the coloring books and slideshow, come to life was especially rewarding. This experience helped me realize that I want to pursue a career in marketing, possibly sports marketing, and shadowing a woman in sports inspired me by showing that this goal is achievable.”

Ella Jenkins ’26 CLEVELAND CAVALIERS

“I completed my Genesis experience at Rocket Arena in downtown Cleveland with Kerry Barrett ’10, the Cleveland Cavaliers’ in-house Associate General Counsel. Over the span of two weeks in July, we spent 40 hours together reviewing and negotiating contracts with various vendors and brands, interviewing potential candidates for a new legal position, and learning how the legal team works with every department, as well as how a good lawyer approaches a deal and communicates with clients.

I especially enjoyed the hands-on experience— meeting new people, reading real contracts, and sitting in on meetings and interviews—and I also loved the sports aspects, including touring the locker room and parts of Rocket Arena I wouldn’t normally have access to. This experience definitely confirmed my choice to major in political science and pursue a career in sports and entertainment law in college.”

Mary Musson ’26 OBERLIN COLLEGE ATHLETICS

“I completed my Genesis experience at Oberlin College, where I shadowed Amanda Phillips, the Director of Athletics Communications and Game Day Operations. I had the opportunity to photograph games and practices for a variety of sports, assist with game day broadcasts, learn how to manage statistics, and control the scoreboard during games, among many other responsibilities. I have worked with Amanda for about 50 hours so far and am continuing to work with her.

What I enjoyed most about my Genesis was the variety of experiences—there was always something new to try, which kept everything interesting and fun. This experience solidified my desire to work in the sports industry, a career path I had been questioning before completing my Genesis.”

For information on how to become a Genesis mentor, please email Andrea Fields at afields@maghs.org.

Ella Smith ’26 WILLOUGHBY ATHLETIC TRAINING

“Willoughby South has a student program for athletic training that awards participating students with gym credit, which allowed me to collaborate with other students as well. My mentor was Renee DeSalvo. In May, June, and July, we took classes to learn how to properly handle emergency situations. We would arrive at 7 a.m. to start with learning and practicing a new skill every week. These included taping ankles and wrists, CPR, open wounds and broken bones, and concussion protocol. I worked with the football team, so after their lifts over the summer, we would go out to practice and watch for injuries and stock water bottles. During summer practices, I had to deal with two concussions and two dislocated shoulders. During August and September, I worked the actual football games. We would have to prepare water jugs, water bottles, electrolytes, and the golf cart before the games. Afterwards, we had a team dinner and bonding time. Finally, it was game time—we would tape athletes, help with hydration, and help the athletic trainers with any other tasks. During the games, we had a broken thumb that I had to splint and a broken nose.

My Genesis was very eye-opening to the field of athletic training. I enjoyed the thrill of the games and the atmosphere of the training room. My favorite memory from my experience was the many friendships that I made with the other athletic trainers and the athletes who were in the training room. In the future, I plan to get a master’s in athletic training and hopefully become an athletic trainer in professional sports. If I could give a piece of advice, I would say do not fear rejection, because without the rejections that came across my path, I would not have gotten to experience this opportunity.”

Fall Season Recap

GOLF

STATE RUNNER-UP

VOLLEYBALL

The golf team finished as the OHSAA Division I State Runner-Up this season and won its fifth consecutive District Championship. Calli Reed ’28 was named Second Team All-Ohio. Earning First Team All-District honors were Reed, Kayla Knaze ’27, and Korrine Knaze ’29. Head Coach Danny Gallagher was named the 2025-2026 Section 2 Girls Golf Coach of the Year by the National Federation of State High School Associations.

ROWING

The fall season reflected growing stability and continued progress for the rowing team, which earned 26 Top 10 finishes and competed against 371 entries from programs across the Midwest. Collectively, these results reflect a program that continues to build momentum and earn success, both on and off the water.

The volleyball team completed its season with a 22-5 record and won the OHSAA Division II District and Regional Championships on the way to its first State Semifinal appearance since 2022. Sydney Borowy ’26 was named First Team All-Ohio and District Player of the Year. Kailey Snow ’26 garnered Second Team All-Ohio honors as well as First Team All-District. Head Coach Matt Onweller received the All-Ohio Coaching Achievement Award and was named District Coach of the Year.

SPECIAL ACHIEVEMENT

Sydney Borowy ’26 received a nomination for Female High School Athlete of the Year for the Greater Cleveland Sports Awards on Feb. 5. Borowy is a 4-year varsity letter winner in volleyball for the Blue Streaks.

FIELD HOCKEY

The field hockey team welcomed Becky Hutchinson ’01 back to Magnificat as the program’s new head coach. The team displayed great improvement all season long, with postseason play ending in the Regional Semifinal. Olivia Thompson ’26 was named First Team All-District.

CROSS COUNTRY

The Magnificat cross country team qualified for the OHSAA Division II Regional Meet, and the Blue Streaks saw Ally Liller ’26 move on to the State Meet—the first Magnificat runner to accomplish this feat since 2017.

TENNIS

The tennis team completed its season as the OTCA Division I State Runner-Up, winning the District Championship along the way. The doubles team of Marissa Packer ’28 and Molly Williams ’26 qualified for the OHSAA Division I State Tournament, as did the doubles team of Elizabeth Ammori ’29 and Adriana Guillermo ’29. Ammori and Guillermo were named Second Team All-Ohio.

SOCCER

The soccer team welcomed new head coach Tommasso Favro to the Blue Streak community. The team played one of the most difficult schedules in the state this season and finished as the District Runner-Up. Lexi Hradek ’27, Grace Quinn ’26, Draya Sanders ’27, Kalli Sdrakas ’27, and Greta Trapp ’27 were named First Team All-Greater Cleveland, and Assistant Coach Camryn Hartman ’18 was named Private School Assistant Coach of the Year.

COLLEGE ATHLETIC COMMITMENTS

Magnificat Athletics was proud to celebrate the following athletes and their families on their commitment to continue their academic and athletic careers:

Sydney Borowy ’26 - Volleyball - University of Connecticut

Kristina Chill ’26 - Golf - Florida Southern College

Alena Martinez ’26 - Lacrosse - Catawba College

Lindsey Murphy ’26 - Volleyball - Elon University

Grace Quinn ’26 - Lacrosse - University of Connecticut

Gemma Wichmann ’26 - Basketball - Loyola University Chicago

Celeste Murman ’17

Circus Performer with Circ Mechanics

By Caitlin MacBride Berg ’10, Director of Alumnae Relations

Celeste Murman ’17 was a standout gymnast at Magnificat, competing at the state level for four years. Gymnastics had been a constant in her life since she was four years old, an outlet for what she describes as being a “wild child” with endless energy. By the time she was 18, she had spent more than a decade training, competing, and learning the value of daily commitment. Still, when it came time to consider what came next, she felt uncertain. College visits confirmed what she already suspected: She needed a different kind of challenge.

That clarity came from an unexpected source. Her mother, sportswriter Mary Kay Cabot, was speaking with an NFL agent who had begun representing circus performers from Russia. Through those conversations, Murman was introduced to the professional circus world. She began to research the industry and found circus school, which quickly became the perfect path.

Murman began training at a circus school in Philadelphia and immediately fell in love with the art form. That passion led her to Quebec, where at age 21 she auditioned for, and earned admission to, the prestigious École de cirque de Quebec. The program is notoriously difficult to enter and accepts very few Americans, making her acceptance a major milestone.

The three-year program was intense and immersive, demanding both physical endurance and mental resilience. She specialized in double Chinese pole, training hours every day on that apparatus alone. Her second discipline, hoop diving, added another layer of athleticism, while trampoline training filled another three hours a week. On top of that, Murman studied dance, theater, conditioning, and flexibility, building the versatility required of elite circus performers.

Her dedication paid off immediately. Right out of school, Murman landed a tour with Flip Fabrique. After learning the show in Canada over a few short weeks, she embarked on a four-month European tour, performing double Chinese pole, air track, trampwall, and group acrobatic acts. Additional tours followed across Canada and the United States, along with a three-month performance stint at the San Diego Zoo. Her career continued to expand internationally. She returned to Europe for another six-month tour, performed in a fashion show for Van Cleef jewelry on a beach in Thailand, and

Alumna Advice: Celeste Murman ’17

“Take risks every day. It might be scary, but it will be worth it.”

spent two months performing in South Korea with Flip Fabrique.

“All of my experiences have been so unique and once-ina-lifetime,” she said.

Today, Murman is a professional acrobat touring the United States with the Cirque Mechanics show Tilt, performing Chinese pole and teeter board. She credits Magnificat teacher and coach Liz Wojtkun ’02 for helping prepare her for this demanding career. The support and encouragement Murman received gave her confidence to pursue an unconventional dream.

For those curious to see where that mindset can lead, Murman invites others to follow her journey, and her gravity-defying tricks, on Instagram.

Hannah Lee ’17

Youth Football Manager with the Cleveland Browns

By Caitlin MacBride Berg ’10, Director of Alumnae Relations

Hannah Lee ’17 has always wanted to see more women on the football field, and as Youth Football Manager for the Cleveland Browns, she is opening doors, building opportunities, and helping thousands of young athletes across Northeast Ohio find their places on the field.

Lee played soccer at Magnificat and continued her athletic career at Ashland University, where she majored in marketing and business management. During her undergraduate studies, she secured an internship with 2aDays (formerly LRT Sports), an organization that helps high school students navigate college athletics and scholarships. Working alongside other college athletes, she rotated through marketing, business development, and social media, gaining hands-on experience and discovering her passion for building a career in sports. During her senior year, she returned to 2aDays as a mentor, working in a hybrid role where she created pitch decks and managed social media.

Lee joined the Cleveland Browns organization shortly after college and was hired full time in Spring 2022. In her current role, she leads all youth football initiatives for the Browns, spanning grade-school tackle and flag football, high school tackle football, and girls’ high school flag football. Her work emphasizes health and safety—particularly helmet safety—coach education through clinics, and comprehensive programming that supports young athletes and their teams.

One of Lee’s most impactful accomplishments has been the growth of girls’ high school flag football. When she began, there were just six teams. Today, there are 121 high schools and more than 3,500 girls playing across Northeast and Central Ohio, all supported through the Cleveland Browns. Magnificat will begins its third season this spring as one of the participating high schools, fielding both a varsity and JV team.

Lee oversees onboarding for new teams, organizes events and programming, and works directly with schools and coaches. Over the course of a year, she helps coordinate approximately 90-100 events and attends at least one high school tackle football game each week, ensuring programs receive funding, recognition, and continued support.

“It’s a blessing to have a front-row seat to watch these great athletes build careers and further their education,” she said.

Alumna Advice: Hannah Lee ’17 “Find what you love and pursue it wholeheartedly.”

Within the Browns organization, three pillars guide the work: winning, fans, and community. Lee’s role sits squarely within that community mission, and she notes that girls’ high school flag football receives strong visibility and recognition within the organization. Support from Browns leadership has been critical, including plans for the Berea expansion, which will feature a new community field dedicated to youth programming.

Looking back, Lee credits Magnificat with preparing her in ways that extend far beyond academics.

“Going to an all-girls school empowered me,” she said. “I was always given a voice.”

That foundation has served her well in a maledominated industry, where confidence, resilience, and the willingness to learn are essential. She embraces the growing movement of women in sports and strives to “pull as you climb,” intentionally creating opportunities for the next generation of young women to follow.

The future of women’s sports makes Lee’s work even more meaningful. Women’s flag football is set to debut at the 2028 Olympics, and the NFL is actively supporting the development of a national women’s league.

ALUMNAE

Clare Chambers ’21

Basketball Coach in Ireland with the Cleveland Project

By Chris Rini Slyman ’84 , Advancement Assistant

In 1984, 16-year-old Shane Donnelly came to Cleveland, Ohio, from Belfast, Ireland, to play basketball and attend Lakewood High School through the Irish American Sports Foundation. Not only did he get an opportunity to play basketball with his American peers, but he also learned by watching the best Cleveland professional and college players. He witnessed firsthand how basketball can help foster relationships and build strong bonds within communities.

Years later, Donnelly returned to Cleveland but maintained close ties with Ireland’s growing basketball community, which faced limited resources and needed coaches, courts, and money. Recognizing the transformative power of youth sports and drawing on his experience in Cleveland, he created the Cleveland Project, an international basketball and education initiative bringing kids together from historically divided communities in Northern Ireland with American post-graduate athletes for sport, mentorship, and academic opportunity.

A defining strength of this program is its support for American graduate student-athletes. In partnership with local high school coaches, the Cleveland Project identifies college graduates who wish to continue competing in basketball while mentoring and coaching young players in Ireland. In return, the selected students receive full scholarships to pursue post-graduate degrees in Belfast while playing and coaching.

Magnificat basketball coach Danny Gallagher identified Clare Chambers ’21 for the program. Chambers played basketball all four years at Magnificat. She attended Miami University, a Division I program where was a walk-on player her freshman year. After that first season, she was awarded a scholarship to play basketball for her remaining three years at Miami. Chambers is the fourth scholar in the Cleveland Project and the first woman. She credits her Magnificat teachers and coaches, especially Coach Gallagher, for her success on and off the court.

While working on her master’s degree in international business at Queen’s University, Chambers travels to elementary schools in Northern Ireland, leading youth basketball programs for boys and girls. She also coaches an all-girls Belfast U14 team.

Alumna Advice: Clare Chamber ’21

“The best bet you can ever make in life is on yourself. One day you will look back and be proud you decided to keep going.”

“It’s so amazing to see the girls’ faces light up when I walk on to the court,” she said. “Not many of them have seen an adult female player and coach.”

By fostering teamwork, mutual respect, and shared goals among children from varied backgrounds, the program encourages broader unity in Belfast. Basketball remains one of the only cross community sports in Northern Ireland where Protestants and Catholics play together in friendly competition. The Cleveland Project has grown rapidly, with the program reaching over 7,100 youth across 46 schools in 2025, a dramatic increase from just 1,450 participants in 2021.

Chambers hopes to continue to inspire young basketball athletes, especially young girls, through mentoring and coaching.

“It’s been an incredible experience, and one that has taught me not only about being a coach but also how to be a good example for collaboration, compassion, and kindness for young people,” she said.

Chambers is a great example of how scholarships can open doors to advanced degrees while changing young lives through basketball. The Cleveland Project is nurturing the next generation of athletes, leaders, and global citizens—on both sides of the Atlantic.

Katie Newman Hein ’03

Senior Vice President of the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics

By Caitlin MacBride Berg ’10, Director of Alumnae Relations

Katie Newman Hein ’03 always knew that playing basketball would be more than just a sport for her; it would be a stepping stone towards a future career in athletics.

Hein played basketball for four years at Magnificat, and was a member of the team that advanced to the Final Four in 2002. Her love of basketball led her to Wilmington College in Ohio, where her team won the Division III National Championship during her freshman year.

Initially, Hein believed athletic training would provide the ideal path to a career in sports. However, after learning that Wilmington offered a sports management program, she pivoted, realizing her interests aligned more closely with the business side of athletics. She immersed herself in every aspect of college athletics, working in Wilmington’s sports information department where she helped support the softball and men’s and women’s soccer programs. Ultimately, Hein made the difficult decision not to play basketball her senior year, choosing instead to fully commit to working in the athletic department, where she gained hands-on experiences in game management, event operations, and the behind-the-scenes business of sports.

Through a family connection, Hein was introduced to Mike Cleary, then Executive Director of the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA). Prior to her senior year, she interviewed for an internship and expressed her preference for pursuing a career in intercollegiate athletics over professional sports. She earned the role and described herself as the office “utility player,” a fitting parallel to her role on the basketball court. After a yearlong internship, she was offered a full-time position that would anchor her career.

Her early initiatives at NACDA, a professional and educational association for more than 22,000 college athletics administrators at 2,200 institutions throughout the United States, Canada, and Mexico, focused on serving administrators nationally through the development and execution of educational and networking opportunities. Through that work, she gained insight into the experiences of underrepresented

Alumna Advice: Katie Newman Hein ’03

“Embrace the uncomfortable, carry yourself with pride, and remember: You never get a second chance to make a first impression.”

populations and became acutely aware of the challenges women face in athletics administration. These efforts reinforced what she now sees as the core of her work: creating access and opportunity.

“I get to do something that positively affects the lives of people who aspire to work in sports,” she said. “That’s the most rewarding part.”

Nearly 20 years later, Hein now oversees all events for NACDA. Her responsibilities include advising and helping run 18 associations nationwide, while managing large-scale conventions and events. Through her work she gets to know people from all over the country and works with incredibly talented athletic directors and administrators.

She credits Magnificat with instilling the confidence that continues to guide her. From helping score volleyball matches to developing leadership on and off the court, she sees clear throughlines between those early experiences and her current work.

“Magnificat taught us to believe we belong at the proverbial table,” she said. “That sense of confidence has shaped everything I do.”

Today, she lives in Westlake with her husband and their two young children. She hopes her daughter will grow up seeing what’s possible, underscoring the importance for young girls to see women who love their careers and model the possibilities available to the next generation.

ALUMNAE MISSION

Campus Ministry

From the continued evolution of the music ministry to a shared commitment to deepening faith across the community, the Campus Ministry team has embraced a season of purposeful activity. Among the year’s most memorable moments was the inaugural outdoor Mass, Laudato Si. This distinctive celebration invited the community to gather in prayer amid the beauty of the natural world, offering a powerful reminder of the call to care for God’s creation and the abundance of God’s gifts.

Ways to Pray: The Daily Prayer and the Circle of Prayer

Connect

the Magnificat Community

By Teresa Messmore, Director of Communications

No matter where members of the Magnificat community live, they can stay connected through prayer with two spiritual programs: The Daily Prayer and the Circle of Prayer.

The Daily Prayer

The Daily Prayer is composed by former Vice President of Mission Sister Helen Jean Novy, HM, and emailed to nearly 4,000 subscribers every morning. Her prayers focus on a variety of themes and topics, often tying into the season or the liturgical calendar and drawing inspiration from religious leaders. Recipients often find personal connections to the prayers that uplift their spirits as they begin their days.

“It's always a marvel what the Holy Spirit does through me as an instrument, when people say, ‘That prayer was meant for something I needed that day,’” Novy said. “Well, I have no idea what their life might be at that moment, but the Holy Spirit knows, so that's very beautiful when people perceive the prayer as talking directly to them and helping them talk to God about what is on their mind and heart, or in their daily life.”

The Daily Prayer was started during a time when Novy was frequently being asked to write prayers for various events and purposes. The Mothers’ Club asked her to write a book of prayers, which came to be Prayers and Reflections for the Magnificat Community, published in 2012. The Magnificat community came to rely on her prayers as a valuable resource, with many teachers, for example, using them for the prayers shared at the beginning of each class. Novy committed to an email format for her daily prayers, and the first one was sent on Sept. 12, 2014—and now more than 4,000 prayers have been sent.

“I really do feel that the Holy Spirit inspires me because originally I thought, ‘Can I do a seven day week?” Novy said. “I never thought that I’d really do a whole year, and certainly not 10 or 11 years.”

The Circle of Prayer

The Circle of Prayer is a group of individuals that prays for weekly intentions submitted through the Magnificat website.

The Circle of Prayer comprises faculty, staff, students, alumnae, parents, and friends. Each week, members receive an email with a list of people and issues to pray for, with submissions edited to initials for privacy. The collective power of this effort lifts up those in need of prayer as community members look out for one another.

The project took inspiration from the Sisters of the Humility of Mary, Novy said, which has a prayer request list. Anyone with a care, concern, or need is embraced by the whole Magnificat extended community. Advancement Administrator Kathy Caldart compiles and schedules both the Daily Prayer and the weekly Circle of Prayer, which are free services provided by the school. With the Circle of Prayer, Caldart also sends a notecard at participants’ request.

“These programs show us that the Magnificat community extends beyond the walls of the school,” Novy said. “It extends to wherever our alums and subscribers are.”

HOW TO JOIN

To sign up for the Daily Prayer, email dailyprayer@maghs.org.

To join the Circle of Prayer, email kcaldart@maghs.org.

Fall Musical: The Little Mermaid

Christmas Concert

Visual Art

Students taking visual art classes have produced artwork in a variety of media this year, a few pieces of which are shared here.

FAMILY ASSOCIATION OF MAGNIFICAT

Night in Blue

This year marked the 68th celebration of Night in Blue, a cherished tradition within the Magnificat community. Family and friends gathered for a community Mass followed by a pasta dinner, carnival games, and bingo, all in the spirit of connection

and support. Proceeds from Night in Blue play a vital role in making possible the many unique opportunities available to Magnificat students each year. Thanks to the generosity of our community, this year’s event raised over $350,000.

The Family Association of Magnificat (FAM)’s annual Holly Market brought holiday cheer to campus, welcoming a variety of vendors for an evening of festive shopping and community spirit. Magnificat alumnae, families, and

Holly Market

friends mingled over hors d’oeuvres and perused a wide selection of local, handcrafted goods. Thank you to the dedicated volunteers, vendors, and shoppers who helped make this night a success. All proceeds benefit Magnificat.

2026 MAGNIFICAT GALA an immersive experience

ROYAL BLUE SPONSORS

Anonymous

Deloitte: Fiona Campbell Chambers ’90 and Brian Chambers

TRUE BLUE SPONSORS

Brittan Burke DiSanto ’79 and Fred DiSanto

Kathleen Gallagher-Miller ’72 and Jeannie Gallagher ’80

KeyBank

Roundstone Management, Ltd.

Sisters of the Humility of Mary

BLUE AND WHITE SPONSORS

Event Source

Joseph J. Brady

BLUE STREAK SPONSORS

AVI Foodsystems

Biz-Edge

Carol Ann Rini

Ann Litzler Coyne ’88 and Terry Coyne

Family Association of Magnificat

The Figgie Foundation

Frantz Ward

Terri Holliday and Greg Pacholski

The Kennedy Families

Magnificat Alumnae Board

Mazzella Companies

Debbie Reidy Norton ’86 and Brad Norton

Nuveen

Paradigm Wealth Management: Carrie and Doug Kuhlman

Regency Construction Services, Inc.

RPM International Inc.

St. Edward High School

Vedda Printing

Thank you to our sponsors!

EVENT PATRONS

Amware

Bridget Barrett ’86

Chambers Funeral Homes

Christine Austin Christopher ’88

Susan and Robert Dylong

Katie Beirne Fallon ’94 and Brian Fallon

Meredith Lahl Foxx ’95 and James Foxx

Hamilton Lane

Mary Ellen and Rich Huesken

Ann and Vid Lutz

Rachel Starkey Zbiegien ’97 and Michael Zbiegien

AFTER PARTY SPONSOR

Johnson Investment Counsel

AUCTION SPONSOR

Nordson Corporation

COCKTAIL SPONSOR

River City Wood Products, LLC

ENTERTAINMENT SPONSOR

Parker Hannifin Corporation

Congratulations to the 2026 Magnificat Gala Awardees

The Magnificat Award Alumnae Award of Excellence

Fiona Campbell Chambers ’90 is the managing partner for Deloitte LLP’s Northeast Ohio practice. She is responsible for driving marketplace strategy, business development, social impact, and other strategic initiatives. She received her bachelor’s degree in accounting from Case Western Reserve University and her Master of Tax from the University of Akron. She was recognized by the Weatherhead School of Management as the Alumnus of the year in 2010. In the community, Chambers is an Executive Board Member for Greater Cleveland Sports Commission, Cleveland Leadership Center, the Figgie Foundation, and St. Edward High School. She is also a board member for the Cleveland United Way and Greater Cleveland Partnership and is a member of the Executive Leadership team for Go Red for Women. Her dedication to the Magnificat community is unwavering. She served on the Board of Directors from 2013-2019 and is a dedicated supporter of the students and the school’s Mission. She resides in Westlake with her husband, Brian, and children Liam, Ailish ’20, and Clare ’21.

Ann Mathews O’Malley ’81 serves as Chief Financial Officer for Kendal at Oberlin and Kendal Northern Ohio, providing strategic oversight of all financial operations. Her leadership has supported major growth initiatives, including Kendal at Home, the Kendal at Oberlin Expansion Plan, Kendal Community Outreach, LLC, and the acquisition of The College Village Apartment, an affordable housing complex. Prior to Kendal, O’Malley was a global account executive at Intellinex LLC and previously a senior manager at Ernst & Young LLP, where she led internal audit services in healthcare and insurance after more than a decade in external audit. A Certified Public Accountant, she has served with CARF and multiple nonprofit finance and risk committees. O’Malley holds a BBA from Ohio University and remains active in community and educational leadership. She served on Magnificat’s Alumnae Board from 1993-1996 and the Board of Directors from 2006-2015. She comes from a large family of proud Magnificat alumnae, is the mother of three sons, Sean, Ryan, and Kevin, and the wife of Bryan O’Malley for almost 40 years. They are parishioners at St. Clarence Church in North Olmsted.

Megan Barry Kleinert ’91 and Karl Kleinert are lifelong West Side Clevelanders who attended St. Mark, St. Raphael, and St. Christopher Schools, and are 1991 graduates of St. Ignatius High School and Magnificat High School. They are active parishioners of St. Christopher Parish and the proud parents of four Magnificat alumnae—Elizabeth ’21, Charlotte ’23, Amelia ’24, and Lillian ’25. Karl is President of Leapfrog IT Services in Atlanta, Georgia, and Megan teaches second grade at Goldwood Primary School in Rocky River. Karl served as President of the Family Association of Magnificat (FAM) helping to organize numerous Night in Blue events, including the spaghetti dinner and games, as well as school rallies, bingo, and many other FAM initiatives. He also enjoyed planning several Reverse Raffle Men’s Stag Nights. Megan was delighted to assist with Night in Blue activities, Holly Markets, Dad Prom, Senior Sleepovers, and other Family Association events. Karl and Megan are honored to receive this award, but are even more grateful that their four daughters were educated to learn, lead, and serve in the spirit of Mary’s Magnificat.

Cleveland Rivals Unite Alumnae Giving Challenge Returns

Third annual giving days will bring together Magnificat High School, Saint Joseph Academy, and Beaumont School communities in support of all-girls, Catholic education

The Cleveland Rivals Unite Alumnae Giving Challenge is returning this spring for the third year, with Magnificat, Saint Joseph Academy, and Beaumont School teaming up to champion all-girls Catholic education. From April 28-30, 2026, alumnae are invited to step up to the plate, show their school spirit, and make a gift to their alma mater’s annual fund. The school with the highest percentage of alumnae who participate will take home the win.

Last year Beaumont won, but 498 donors rallied to contribute a total of $53,000 to the Magnificat Fund during the challenge. Collectively, all three schools raised $137,000 for girls’ education. Yet even with that strong showing, alumnae participation still trails that of boys’ schools. The Cleveland Rivals Unite Alumnae Giving Challenge aims to strengthen the philanthropic power of Catholic girls’ schools, joining similar friendly

competitions taking place across Ohio and around the country. As spring approaches, stay tuned for play-byplay updates on how you can join the team and boost Magnificat’s stats in the 2026 Cleveland Rivals Unite Alumnae Giving Challenge.

Before you file your

Make a gift. Receive a tax credit. Change a girl’s life.

The Magnificat Scholarship Granting Organization (Magnificat SGO) is an opportunity for donors who wish to support tuition assistance for Magnificat students to take advantage of the Ohio Tax Credit Program. Ohio residents will receive a dollar-for-dollar tax credit of up to $750 annually per individual or up to $1,500 annually if married and filing jointly. Your contribution ultimately costs you nothing!

For more information, scan the QR code or visit magnificaths.org/sgo.

Contact Vice President of Advancement Deborah Durbin ’81 at ddurbin@maghs.org with any questions.

or

ALUMNAE

Planning for the Future: An Alumna’s Perspective on Legacy, Purpose,

and the

Power of Planned Giving

By Maggie Mroz Lamb ’84, Director of Development

For many Magnificat alumnae, the school’s influence lasts a lifetime. For Jamie McHenry ’10, that influence led to a career devoted to helping individuals and families plan for the future with intention and care.

McHenry earned a bachelor’s degree at the University of Cincinnati, followed by a Juris Doctor from ClevelandMarshall College of Law. Along the way, clerkships at the Cuyahoga County Probate Court and Cleveland Clinic introduced her to the deeply personal and impactful nature of estate planning and charitable giving. Today, she serves as a partner at Schneider Bell, focusing on trusts and estates and advising multigenerational families on aligning financial planning with their legacy goals.

McHenry credits Magnificat’s rigorous academics and emphasis on service with instilling discipline, empathy, and perseverance. Participation in athletics—swimming, diving, and track and field—further reinforced the value of teamwork and resilience, qualities that now guide her as an adult. Most importantly, Magnificat gave her the confidence to speak up and lead without hesitation and pursue a profession centered on helping others navigate complex, often emotional decisions.

Estate planning appealed to her because it sits at the intersection of problem-solving and purpose. She finds deep meaning in helping families protect what matters most—their loved ones, their values, and their legacy, particularly during moments of significant transition. Guiding clients through charitable planning, helping them translate deeply held values into plans that endure for generations is rewarding.

McHenry emphasizes that estate planning is not just for the wealthy or those nearing retirement. At its core, estate planning is about intention—protecting family, preparing for the unexpected, and, for many, supporting causes that have shaped their lives. Simple steps, such as reflecting on what is most important, creating a will, or naming a charitable beneficiary, can have a profound impact.

Planned gifts, she noted, are especially powerful for schools like Magnificat. Including the school in a will, trust, or

retirement plan helps ensure that future generations of young women continue to benefit from exceptional education, transformative programs, and vital scholarships. As needs evolve, these gifts provide stability and opportunity, allowing Magnificat to remain a place where girls build confidence, discover their potential, and pursue their dreams.

PLANNED GIVING CONTACTS

If you have included Magnificat in your estate, please contact Director of Development Maggie Mroz Lamb ’84 at 440-331-1572, ext. 268 or mlamb@maghs.org to be recognized as a member of the Sr. Bernadette Vetter, HM, Legacy Society.

Jamie McHenry ’10 can be reached at jmchenry@mysblaw.com for anyone interested in discussing estate planning goals.

CLASS NOTES

1973

Mary Magazzine-Tucciarone published For Pete’s Sake: and Mine Too! through Christian Faith Publishing. The book is available through Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

2004

Julie Reitenbach Stromberg was inducted into the 2026 Lorain County Swimming & Diving Hall of Fame on Jan. 3, 2026.

1 2 6

2010

Jess Koney Marron and her husband, Sean, welcomed their second child, daughter, Charlotte Elyse Marron, in August 2025.

Bridget Croniger Ockunzzi, MD, graduated from medical school and began ophthalmology residency at The Ohio State University in 2025. She also married Jonathan Ockunzzi on April 12, 2025. Her bridal party included sister Erin Croniger ’19 as the maid of honor and Kate Dunleavy ’17 as a bridesmaid. 1 2 5 6 5 3 3 4 4

2013

Jennifer Heisser Remington and her husband, Jake, welcomed their son Jack in September 2025.

2014

Olivia Lizanich McCafferty ’14 married Keegan McCafferty on Aug. 2, 2025, in Cleveland, Ohio.

Abby Pier Van Niel ’14 married Sean Van Niel on Oct. 18, 2025 in Cleveland, Ohio.

2015

Hannah Lang Benninger married Ricky Benninger on Oct. 25, 2024 at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Cleveland, Ohio. Seven of Hannah’s bridesmaids attended Magnificat. Her sister, Olivia Lang ’17 served as her Maid of Honor.

Other Magnificat alumnae include: Mary Kate Durkin ’15, Molly McCool ’15, Keely Coughlin ’15, Caroline Coughlin ’14, Molly Dunn Mougey ’15, and Natalie Coury ’14. Hannah and Ricky currently live in Denver, Colorado.

2017

Send us your news!

Email Caitlin MacBride Berg ’10 at cberg@maghs.org.

Sandra Bodner Blanken ’64

Judy Slattery Cattani ’69

Daughter of Dorothy Slattery ’42L; Sister of Mary Jo Slattery ’75 and Lisa Slattery ’79

Tanina (Tina) Calabrese ’67

Sister of Maria Calabrese Zickuhr ’64 and Geraldine (Geri) Calabrese Moran ’71

Thomas J. Comerford, MD

Father of Kate Comerford Doherty ’91; Father-in-law of Kimberly Faux ’89; Uncle of Erin O’Toole ’89, Beth O’Toole McDonnell ’90, and Patti O’Toole Saracusa ’98; Great Uncle of Isabella Pagano ’18, Ava Pagano ’20, Kiley McDonnell ’21, and Vera Saracusa ’28

Mary Louise Feeley Demaline ’68

Sister of Karen Feeley Halat ’62†

Mary Jo Foos Erf ’60

Sister of Kathleen Foos DeBarry ’62 and Ginny Foos West ’71

Nancy D. Feighan ’84

Sister of Charlotte Feighan Landino ’87; Cousin of Kathleen Berry ’73, Ann Marie Feighan Richmond ’76, Kaitlyn Berry ’11, Mary Grace Feighan ’16, Natalie Feighan ’18, Trisha Feighan ’18, and many other extended family members

Michael Eugene Gibbons

Father of Megan Gibbons Sendlak ’94 and Caitlin Gibbons Shea ’96

Joanne Wargo Gilcrease ’64

Margaret (Margie) Sindelar Hoover ’62

Sister of Therese Sindelar ’67 and Jean Sindelar Riegel ’74

Bernadine Hudecek ’65

Sister of Christine Hudecek ’69

Jeanne Wood Johnson ’64

Sister of Carol Wood Ross ’62† and Sharon Wood Cavey ’68

Sheila Kehoe ’60

Sister of Kay Kehoe Eckdahl ’67† and Jeanne Kehoe Moser ’72L; Cousin of Kathy Kehoe Christy ’59, Fran Kehoe ’61, Margie Kehoe O’Shaughnessy ’62, Patsy Kehoe Fagan ’63, Maureen Kehoe ’67†, and Annmarie Kehoe Butera ’72

Diane C. Kennedy

Mother-in-law of Jennifer Coughlin Kennedy ’95; Grandmother of Caroline Kennedy ’23 and Ava Kennedy ’28

Aileen Nassif Maroon

Mother of Shelly Maroon Reichard ’77, Tracy Maroon Kelly ’80, and Aileen Maroon Robinson ’84; Grandmother of Jeni Reichard Singleton ’96, Kristen Reichard Allison ’02, Anna Reichard Lierman ’08, Katie Maroon ’03, Becky Maroon D’Amico ’05, Shelly Maroon ’07, Liz Fisher ’06, and Margaret Maroon ’27; Great Grandmother of Mia Singleton ’27; Grandmother-inlaw of Kali Gibbons Fisher '09

Loretta Manuel Marquard ’69

Sister of Kathleen Manuel ’60 and Sharon Dunn ’64†; Cousin of Sr. Mary Beth Marquard, HM ’62 and Ann Marquard Gilbert ’69

Kevin P. O’Neil

Husband of Maryanne Griffin O’Neil ’77; Brother of Jean O’Neil Higgins ’81 and Mary O’Neil McKeon ’83

Therese Marie Oakar

Mother of Michelle Oakar Adams ’85, Margaret Oakar ’96, and Catherine Oakar ’99; Sister-in-law of Mary Rose Oakar ’58L†; Aunt of Carol Kovalick Oakar ’71†, Kathie Oakar Golobic ’83, Susan Oakar ’83, Pattie Oakar Eldridge ’84, Mary Ellen Oakar Dailey ’90, Ann Oakar Henry ’94, and Jeannie Oakar ’96

Michael Edward Pfahler

Father of Stephanie Pfahler

Dormendo ’06, Emily Pfahler Clark ’13, and Elizabeth Pfahler Marrone ’17

Helen Hoff Previts ’61

Mother of Mary Previts Helton ’95

Margaret Schillero

Grandmother of Natalie Turek Palcko ’04 and Stephanie Turek ’07

Annette Schulze

Mother of Robin Schulze Keenan ’05

George Shaker

Father of Georgette Shaker Rech ’86 and Maria Shaker ’98

Margaret Ann Tarr-Smith

Mother of Laura Nortz, past Board of Directors President; Grandmother of Morgan Nortz Flannery ’09, Meredith Nortz ’16, Shannon Tarr ’98, and Mary Kate Tarr ’05

Charles F. Vehovic, Jr. Husband of Catherine Misencik Vehovic ’73

Barbara A. Wallenhorst

Mother of Mary Jo Wallenhorst Lammers ’75, Peggy Wallenhorst Homyak ’80, and Barb Wallenhorst Kuemerle ’84; Mother-in-law of Colleen Ignaut Wallenhorst ’77; Grandmother of Beth Homyak ’01 and Rin Kuemerle ’17

Cynthia Wallis-Hill ’67

Cheryl DiBenedetto Wynocker ’67

Sister of Patti DiBenedetto Corna ’65; Mother of Anne Wynocker Pugliese ’94; Aunt of Danielle DiBenedetto ’99 and Darby Corna Vinciguerra ’99

We have included all individuals for whom we received notification following the publication of the Fall 2025 issue of Magnificat Magazine, and we have listed all of the relationships we could locate in our records. If we have missed anyone, kindly let us know by emailing Caitlin MacBride Berg ’10 at cberg@maghs.org.

† Deceased

L Denotes a graduate of Lourdes Academy

20770 Hilliard Boulevard

Rocky River, OH 44116-3397

UPCOMING EVENTS

Lenten Retreat February 23

Athletic Hall of Fame Nominations Due March 1

Candidates must be formally nominated for consideration. Scan the code for more information.

Mags Madness Casino Night March 21

Spring Play: Clue April 17-19

Cleveland Rivals Unite Happy Hour April 30

Blue Streaks, Bags, and Bingo May 28 and 29