Notre Dame
Campus
100 YEARS 1926-2026
ALUMNAE
A SCHOOL, A HOME, A PLACE OF BELONGING
WELCOME
Letter from Sr. Rita Ostry ND, ‘65 Then & Now SR. RITA OSTRY, ND
Now
Then 1965
PRESENT DAY
Notre Dame Academy High School Graduation
Greetings, and welcome dear Alumnae, It is that time of the year, we take time to honor our special relationship and memories of our high school years at Notre Dame Academy. Years in which we discovered our talents and strengths, faced challenges that required strong values, learned responsibilities as citizens of our country and world, and developed relationships that became lasting bonds and support throughout our lives. And above all we were exposed to, experienced and nurtured a trust in God’s unconditional love for us and faithful presence in our lives. When we reminisce and share experiences of how our lives have unfolded, we call to mind those teachers who inspired us, enlightened us, encouraged us, and laughed with us. We share experiences that stretched our thinking and understanding of a diverse world. We recall the activities that taught us how to work together, support one another, and how to respectfully resolve differences. We recapture the activities that filled the auditorium with fun, laughter, and music. These years deeply impacted our life choices and the spirit by which we live. We share the spirit of Notre Dame “Help for all and harm for none.” This year also celebrates the 100th anniversary of the opening of Notre Dame Academy and the growth and development of the campus. Through the education provided by the Sisters and staff, students developed faith-based values, embraced the responsibility of service and justice to those in need and became witnesses of God’s love and presence to others. In 1974 when Notre Dame Academy merged with Rummel forming Roncalli Catholic High School, this challenged the Sisters to meet an unmet need in the Florence area. It was researched and discovered that affordable housing for seniors was unavailable in the area, and so Notre Dame Housing was created. Its mission is to be a community that provides older adults with the resources to maintain a safe, comfortable, and self-sufficient lifestyle. We humbly celebrate all that God has accomplished through us and you. You, our alumnae, join us in sharing the legacy and spirit of the Notre Dame Sisters. We are grateful for the ways you support and connect with us. May God bless you in the days ahead. Peace & Blessings, Sr. Rita Ostry, ND, ‘65 NOTRE DAME CAMPUS
100 YEARS
1926–2026
100 YEARS OF Notre Dame Campus A timeline of our history 1919
1926
1919
In 1919, the Notre Dame Sisters purchased Seven Oaks Farm from Archbishop Jeremiah J. Harty for $14,000. Originally considered as a future site for Boys Town, the property instead became the home of what is now the Notre Dame Campus.
1926
On August 15, 1926, the Notre Dame Academy building was dedicated, and classes began in September with ninth, tenth, and eleventh grades. Twenty-six young women enrolled in the school’s first year.
1936
In 1936, a new wing was added to Notre Dame Academy, creating the prominent front entrance. The addition served as the main entrance to Notre Dame Academy.
1950
In 1950, another major addition was constructed at Notre Dame Academy. This new wing, created additional space for the Sisters and served as a place of prayer, leadership, formation, hospitality, and daily community life. The chapel was also added this year (in the 1936 addition to the building).
1964
By 1964, enrollment at Notre Dame Academy had grown significantly. To meet the needs of this growing student population, a major addition was constructed, expanding classroom space and modernizing the campus.
1974
Notre Dame Academy closed and merged with Rummel High School to form Roncalli Catholic High School.
1978
In early 1978, with the support of a Sisters’ Coalition of Omaha, the United Catholic Social Services and a Methodist group, the Notre Dame Sisters opened a Shelter for Victims of Family Violence at the Boys Town former convent.
1997
After careful evaluation of local needs and prayer for guidance the Sisters decided to address an acute need for affordable housing for their elder neighbors. They began the process of converting the Academy into safe, affordable housing for seniors, now Notre Dame Housing.
1936
1950
1964
1974
1997 NOTRE DAME CAMPUS
100 YEARS
1926–2026
OUR HISTORY A CENTURY OF FAITH, LEARNING & COMMUNITY
THE BEGINNING
of a Legacy
The land on which the Notre Dame Sisters’ campus stands has a rich history dating back to the mid-19th century. In 1855, the United States government granted a 160-acre tract of land to Mrs. Rhoda Rich as a pension following the death of her husband, Captain Israel Rich, who had served in the War of 1812. Over the next 65 years, the property passed through the hands of several owners. On March 4, 1904, Lucy C. Harding Polack of Omaha purchased two parcels of the original tract, known as Blocks 185 and 186. Four or five years later, she built the residence that would become the foundation of today’s Notre Dame campus. Harding attempted to operate a large poultry and cattle farm known as Seven Oaks, but the venture was unsuccessful. The farm could not produce enough feed for its livestock, forcing her to purchase additional supplies and accumulate significant debt. Unable to sustain the operation, she eventually sought to sell the property. In 1919, Father Edward J. Flanagan was searching for
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a home for the boys in his care, who were then living in a rented facility known as the German Home. Archbishop Jeremiah J. Harty purchased the Seven Oaks property on September 10, 1919, intending it to serve as the future location of Boys Town. At the same time, Archbishop Harty had invited Mother Qualberta Krivanac and four Sisters from Bohemia to minister to Czech immigrants and teach at the boys’ home. As Boys Town quickly expanded, Father Flanagan realized the Seven Oaks property would be too small to meet the needs of the growing number of boys seeking shelter. He decided to sell the farm and invited Mother Qualberta to view the property. Despite snowy weather and challenging travel conditions, Mother Qualberta recognized its potential as a novitiate and motherhouse for the Sisters. The Notre Dame Sisters purchased the property from Archbishop Harty for $14,000 on September 10, 1919. The Sisters immediately began transforming the
100 YEARS
1926–2026
The early days of the Notre Dame Campus
the former poultry farm into a religious community.
FROM LAND GRANT TO LEGACY
With assistance from Boys Town residents, volunteers, and benefactors, they removed chicken houses and other farm structures, established vegetable gardens, and planted fruit trees, grapevines, and berry bushes. In the fall of 1920, construction began to expand the residence by adding a chapel and additional rooms. The masonry, carpentry, roofing, and painting work totaled $6,465.75, with carpenters earning $1.12 per hour. By the end of 1920, the former Seven Oaks poultry farm had become a novitiate for the formation of new Sisters and a centrally located motherhouse serving 48 Sisters who taught in eight elementary and high schools throughout Iowa and Nebraska.
1855
The U.S. government granted this land to Rhoda Rich as a pension for her late husband, Captain Israel Rich, who served in the War of 1812.
1904
Miss Lucy C. Harding purchased the property, naming it Seven Oaks Farm.
1919
The Notre Dame Sisters purchased the land, beginning a new chapter of service and ministry.
1924
The farmhouse stood at the heart of the property, a humble beginning for the vision to come.
A NEW HOME a New Beginning
Moving to Seven Oaks Farm marked a new chapter for the Notre Dame Sisters. The transition was challenging. There was no running water in the house, no sidewalks outside, and muddy fields often left dirt tracked throughout the building. EST. 1926
Despite these hardships, the property offered promise. Situated on a high hill, the farm provided fertile land for gardens, several well-kept buildings, and a comfortable residence with city water, electricity, and a furnace. Its proximity to a parish church and the streetcar made it an ideal location for the congregation's future motherhouse. Mother Qualberta often recalled Rev. Mother M. Cyrilla Marsik's advice that a motherhouse should be located on the outskirts of a city where the Sisters could enjoy fresh air, tranquility, ELEVATOR and the fruits of the land, access to
a Catholic University, while remaining close to the needs of the community. Seven Oaks perfectly fit that vision. SP
ES
ET SCIENT
IA
After tenant John Foral left the property on June 15, 1920, the Sisters quickly prepared their new home. They purchased essential furnishings, transformed the grounds, and, with help from the Boys' Home, volunteers, and benefactors, removed old buildings, planted a vegetable garden, and added trees, grapevines, and berry bushes. GROW IN WISDOM, COURAGE AND GRACE BEFORE GOD AND MAN
On June 29, 1920, the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul, the Sisters celebrated their first Holy Mass in a temporary chapel set up in the dining room. Thanks to generous donations from the parishes of Dodge, Howells, and Brainard, the chapel was furnished with the necessary liturgical items. By that fall, a permanent chapel and several additional rooms had been added, firmly establishing Seven Oaks Farm as the heart of the Notre Dame Sisters' mission in the United States. NOTRE DAME CAMPUS
100 YEARS
1926–2026
OUR HISTORY A CENTURY OF FAITH, LEARNING & COMMUNITY
BUILDING A LEGACY A Century of Growth
FROM ACADEMY TO COMMUNITY: A CENTURY OF GROWTH, FAITH, AND SERVICE To build Notre Dame Academy, the Sisters sacrificed their many years of savings and borrowed nearly $100,000. Because the total cost of construction exceeded both the loan and their savings, the Sisters issued an appeal to the Czech community through a Czech Catholic newspaper in September 1925.
portion of the original building plans, the front section of the Motherhouse. The project cost an estimated $56,067, exhausting the Sisters’ savings and creating an additional debt of $6,000. The new wing was blessed in August 1937 and included a chapel that also served as the main entrance to Notre Dame Academy.
On August 15, 1926, the Academy building was dedicated, and classes began that September with ninth, tenth, and eleventh grades. Notre Dame Academy welcomed both day students from the Omaha area and boarding students who lived at the Academy while attending school.Twenty-six young women enrolled in the school’s first year.
The 1937–38 school year brought another milestone: the opening of a grade school at the Academy. Since St. Philip Neri School was located only five blocks away, the Academy accepted only boarding students. Seven pupils enrolled in the new grade school program.
Growth came quickly. In 1928, Notre Dame Academy received accreditation from the University of Nebraska, and enrollment increased to thirty-nine students. By the 1930–31 school year, enrollment had reached fifty students, and by 1935–36, eighty-three students attended the Academy. As both the school and the Congregation grew, additional space became necessary. Because the Provincial Motherhouse no longer provided adequate room, the Sisters completed another
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In 1950, another major addition expanded the campus and provided additional space for the growing community of Notre Dame Sisters. This new wing served as a place of prayer, leadership, formation, hospitality, and daily community life. It reflected both the continued growth of the Academy and the expanding ministries of the Sisters throughout the region. Each summer, Sisters returned from their missions to renew community bonds and continue their education.
100 YEARS
1926–2026
In 1957, Rev. James Hannan, SJ, built the Shrine to St. Joseph on campus to commemorate the Congregation’s Golden Jubilee. The Academy continued to evolve. In 1958, kindergarten classes opened at Notre Dame Academy, welcoming boys for the first time. The kindergarten program continued until 1962. By 1964, enrollment had grown significantly, drawing students from Omaha and surrounding communities. To accommodate this growth, another major addition was constructed, expanding classroom space and modernizing the campus. The new wing reflected the Academy’s strong reputation for academic excellence and the Notre Dame Sisters’ continued commitment to providing a faith-centered, well-rounded education for young women. A significant transition occurred in 1974 when Notre Dame Academy merged with the Christian Brothers’ Rummel High School to form Roncalli Catholic High School. The merger expanded educational opportunities in North Omaha and laid the foundation for a school that continues to thrive today. Following the merger, the Academy building entered a new chapter. It became a center for community events, adult education, spirituality programs, social justice initiatives, and hospitality. In 1997, after careful evaluation of community needs and prayerful discernment, the Sisters recognized the growing need for affordable housing for older adults in the Florence neighborhood. They began the process of transforming the Academy into safe, affordable housing for seniors what is now known as Notre Dame Housing. Today, 45 units are housed in two newer buildings, with an additional 62 units located within the original Academy building. Renovations were completed according to historic preservation guidelines, preserving the character and beauty of the original structure while adapting it for modern use. By December 2011, the renovation project was completed, creating 107 units of safe, affordable housing for seniors in Florence. The campus continues to serve as the heart of the Notre Dame Sisters’ mission. The Motherhouse offices, chapel, and apartments for many of the Sisters remain here. From this place, the Sisters, their affiliated Associates, and countless friends and partners continue to serve the community, addressing human trafficking, supporting survivors of domestic violence, welcoming immigrants and refugees, and responding to the needs of the times. A century after its founding, the Notre Dame Campus remains what it has always been: a place where faith, education, community, and service come together to transform lives.
NOTRE DAME CAMPUS
100 YEARS
1926–2026
Our Memories.
OUR STORIES. SHARED BY NDA ALUMNAE
As we celebrate 100 years of the Notre Dame Campus, we asked alumnae to share the memories and moments that shaped their time at Notre Dame. Here are some of the stories you shared with us.
Lifelong Friendships. My parents, Gil and Dot Luers, are the reason I attended Notre Dame Academy. My oldest sister, Marsha, was a senior when I was a freshman, and two more of my sisters followed me.
A Special Class. One of my saddest memories was losing four classmates in a tragic car accident in 1960. Through it, the Sisters taught us about grief and accepting death. My class began with a set of triplets and two sets of twins, and I was one of the twins! I also remember Sister Gabriel, who taught us cooking and sewing, and Sister Delores, who served as our principal. And, of course, I'll never forget the long uphill walk from 30th and State Street to school. We certainly didn't dilly dally, or we'd be late! — Carol Cameron McGonigal ‘1961
In em M oriam icek Eileen M. M
ussek Joanne Jano
of Class 1 9 6 1
ars Carol A. Holl
mann Joanne Eoy
Our Family's Notre Dame Story
Some of my favorite memories involve the school plays. I usually worked behind the scenes, and it certainly didn't hurt that the boys from Rummel High School tried out for roles! I especially remember Pillow Talk, Blithe Spirit, and Little Women. I also was very involved in Student Council and a favorite memory was clashing heads with Renie Murray who wanted a special smoking room on campus! She became a lifelong friend as did Rita Eckley and Joann Zadina. Many of my closest friends came from St. Philip Neri School down the street. Marcia Little, Kathy Shea, and Debi Cuva all chose to attend Notre Dame, and my dearest friend, Micheala Cockrell Hoffman, and I have been friends since kindergarten at Blessed Sacrament. And of course, my favorite teacher/Sister is Sr. Phyllis ( now Margaret), who was our senior sponsor and always a happy memory in my days at Notre Dame! - Monica Luers Hickman ‘1970
Thanks to Mother Qualberta and those trusting Sisters who dreamed of a school for girls in north Omaha. We can only imagine the sacrifices they made to finance this dream. I give thanks in a special way as I recall the number of my relatives who graduated from Notre Dame Academy. Our aunt, Sr Pauline (Immaculata) Polak, was in the first graduating class of 1928. As the years passed several of her nieces were blessed to graduate from Notre Dame Academy. The list includes: Sr Joan (Loretta) Polak, 1947, Sr Anita (Dorothy) Rolenc, 1951, Sr Karen (Rita) Rolenc, 1952, Rose Marie (Polak) Rosenberger, 1952, Sr Josita (Leona) Hanus, 1953, Dorothy (Hanus) Hain, 1963, Marilyn (Hanus) Haerr, 1968 and Loretta (Hanus) Masur, 1969. Mother Qualberta wanted her teachers to be well educated and giving teachers so graduates of NDA were able to pursue professions reflecting their excellent preparation with varied courses taught by the Sisters. I join all the Alumnae who give thanks to the Sisters for dreaming many years ago of our Academy and thus making our high school academic experience a reality. - Sr Josita (Leona) Hanus ND 1953
NOTRE DAME CAMPUS
100 YEARS
1926–2026
OUR STORIES.
A Second Family The Sisters were my family throughout my growing up years, first in grade school then at Notre Dame. They helped me through the death of both of my parents, even riding in the limo with me at my fathers funeral. I stayed with the Sisters after my father’s death for a brief period.
Thank You!
One memorable classroom exchange earned me a stern warning, and another time I passionately defended an essay I had written. After discussing it with the principal, my grade was restored, and I learned that standing up respectfully for what I believed was worthwhile. I also remember being intimidated by the priests, perhaps because my uncle was one! Ironically, years later, my best friend became a priest. Life certainly has a sense of humor.
I would like to extend thanks to Sr. Emmanuella for Religion and Science, Sr. Gabriel for Sewing, Sr. Consolata for Tap Dancing, and to the many other Sisters who provided us with such a wonderful education at Notre Dame. I thank them all for the lasting impact they had on our lives. Although I cannot attend, I wish everyone a wonderful reunion. Karen Masters Arnone ‘59
School at Notre Dame was such fun. We used to celebrate birthdays at lunch complete with cakes and ice cream, and the Sisters would join us. I also remember Mr. Hoffmans' buss trucking up that State street hill in the winter time when it was icy. I know I heard rosary beads in the seats hoping we would make up the hill. We all remember the wonderful smells coming from the cafeteria at lunch time- the homemade bread and those wonderful Kolaches. I remember Sr. MaryBeth came over to my house one time and we made Kolaches. That was a fun day.
Looking Back Some of my favorite memories of Notre Dame Academy are the lifelong friendships that continue to this day, the excitement of prom announcements, and the wonderful smell of fresh cinnamon rolls filling the halls.
I cried when I had to leave Notre Dame May 26, 1967. I knew I would miss all my classmates and the wonderful Sisters I had grown to love throughout the years. Although a lot of the Sisters are gone, my memories of Notre Dame will last forever in my heart.
Rita Eckley Fischer ‘70
Pat Holewinski Sexton 1967
NOTRE DAME CAMPUS
100 YEARS
1926–2026
The Story Continues ALUMNAE UPDATES
Sr. Celeste Wobeter ‘56 Greetings! Seventy years since I graduated—hard to believe! I now live at Notre Dame Housing, and it is a wonderful place filled with wonderful people. I'm doing well and keeping busy with committees and helping out wherever I can.
Mary Christe Hoffman Wilson ‘61 I have lived in Bennington in a town home for the past 13 years. I keep busy with Church and neighborhood activities, as well as activities with my adult children and grandchildren.
Connie Jirovsky Ostedt ‘62 My husband, Gary and I are enjoying our retirement in Oro Valley, Arizona, a suburb of Tucson., where it is VERY HOT right now!!! Greetings to all of you!
NOTRE DAME CAMPUS
100 YEARS
1926–2026
The Story Continues ALUMNAE UPDATES
Sr. Marie Alice Ostry ‘62 I have been living at Notre Dame Housing for the past year and an half. My living space is what was the Academy Library. It is spacious and bright. I do have access to the portico above the north entrance to the building so have the opportunity to sit and listen to the birds in the mornings and enjoy the breeze during the spring to autumn times! My time is filled with prayer, visiting, keeping up with social justice issues, volunteering, as well as maintaining some of our Community activities. There always seem to be an event which comes up for help. One of the events which is on going is meeting with the '62 Grads about every other month for lunch or gathering. Friendships are treasures to continue.
Sr. Margaret Proskovec ‘64 On October 1st of last year, after 18 years in Grand Island, I moved to Notre Dame Housing in Omaha. My life has come full circle. My apartment is in the same space that served as a classroom and library for Novices in my early years as a Notre Dame Sister. I'm still learning to find my way around Omaha - so much has changed over the years - as well as finding ways to make a contribution wherever I find myself. One of these ways is that I teach a class in Art Appreciation for residents at Notre Dame Housing. My students love it almost as much as I do, especially since there is no paper work or grading involved. They bring rich life experiences to our study of art and conversations about it.
Carol Hemmingson Roser ‘64 I've been living in Atlantic Iowa for 6 years now. I am thrilled with my decision to move here. I joined the Elks and have found many wonderful friends. I even made Elk of the Year. I volunteer, help with BINGO, go to Headstart to read books and do crafts with the kids, help with other activities that we hold at the lodge, I am on the committee to decide on grants for local organizations. I love to play cards and do so every chance I get. I go to the library on Tuesdays. They bring in speakers from many different elements of life. They are a wonderful group who would help out in any way they can. I turned 80 in May, but I still feel much younger than that!!! I am now Great grandma (Gigi) to 3 wonderful children. It is so fun to watch them grow! I truly feel blessed in every way. NOTRE DAME CAMPUS
100 YEARS
1926–2026
The Story Continues ALUMNAE UPDATES
Sr. Rita Ostry ‘65 This past year was filled with a deep awareness of gratitude. In preparing for the 100th centennial celebration I am reminded of God'sever-faithful loving presence with us. It began with five courageous women leaving their homeland in 1910 to serve Czech immigrants in the United States. They navigated language barriers, forged foreign territories finally settling in Omaha which became the center of the Notre Dame Sisters Province in the U.S., and negotiated the building of an Academy for girls and a motherhouse for the Sisters within a span of 16 years. How impressive was that! The official opening of Notre Dame Academy was September 8, 1926. The life of Notre Dame Academy was 52 years, providing a faith-filled, value based education. Over a thousand young girls were sent forth to be strong witnesses of gospel justice and hope, loving and caring for one’s neighbors, mindful of one’s civic responsibilities and duties. When Notre Dame Academy closed in 1974 it was a call to meet unmet needs. Through years of praying faithfully for guidance, discerning and stretching our openness to something new, meeting endlessly with various advisors, and letting go of the motherhouse Seven Oaks of Florence, now Notre Dame Housing was created. This was and is to be a community of caring and support providing safe, affordable, independent housing for eldering adults.Humbly and gratefully this is what we are celebrating this year. It became a reality because of generous supporters, friends, family, and alums who believed in us and worked with us, and above all because of God’s loving presence with us, doing more than we ever imagined.
Marian Lane Dryden ‘66 I am a retired Realtor from Ocala, FL and have moved back to my hometown of Omaha. I live at Immanuel Villages a retirement center in Omaha.
NOTRE DAME CAMPUS
100 YEARS
1926–2026
The Story Continues ALUMNAE UPDATES
Vicki Bahle White ‘66 I have been enjoying my life in North Kansas City for the last 5 years. I still love to cook and bake, and enjoy attending Bible Study every week. My youngest daughter got married last fall, and is now expecting my sixth grandchild at the end of August. I currently have four granddaughters and one grandson ages 6 to 25!
Mary Buglewicz Duffy ‘66 I have been retired from the Nebraska Department of Education since 2016. My husband retired from the Sarpy County Attorney office in 2018.We have been busy! I am a member of the Assistance League of Omaha. It is a philanthropic organization. We operate a wonderful thrift shop, which funds many charities. Our biggest philanthropy is Operation School Bell, which has clothed over 90,000 school children since 1976. I also serve on the Board of Directors at Gross Catholic High School. My husband serves as Advocate for his Knights of Columbus Council. My husband, Kevin, and I have 4 grown children and two beautiful granddaughters, ages 8 and 11. Our granddaughters live in Scottsdale, AZ. My biggest thrill this year was a trip to the Czech Republic and Poland. My daughter, Siobhan, arranged the whole trip. We were able to visit relatives in the Czech Republic. Our guide in the Czech Republic was the niece of a Notre Dame Sister of the Czech province. It was such a thrill! We also visited several shrines, the Infant of Prague, Our Lady of Czestochowa, Wadowice, St. Pope John Paul's birthplace, the Divine Mercy Shrine, as well as Wawel Castle and Nowa Huta. Life is good!
NOTRE DAME CAMPUS
100 YEARS
1926–2026
The Story Continues ALUMNAE UPDATES
Irene Kridelbaugh Ratliff ‘66 I’m living in Tonasket, Washington. I moved here to be near my son and his family. I have a house on the Okanogan River with an acre and a quarter of land. I keep busy watering the huge yard and curtailing the weeds that grow profusely. There is a mobile home which I rent out and a barn. My parish is Holy Rosary. It is very small. We share a priest with two other parishes.
Cathy Philbin MDowell ‘66 Denver Colorado is the area I've been in for the last 40 plus years. I've worked as a registered nurse in various areas and hospitals. In 2022, I received a kidney transplant and I'm doing well post-transplant. My daughter lives in Crested Butte Colorado, so I enjoy seeing her and visiting the mountains. I love to go swimming outside or inside in Golden Colorado where I live. We recently received our new Bishop from Nebraska who attended Creighton University where I graduated with my nursing degree. Hope everybody has a good time with the reunion and celebration. Wish I could be there!
Linda Radachi Ford ‘66 It is hard to believe it has been 60 years since graduation. My husband Glenn and I will be married 55 years in December. We are both blessedly retired! Glenn enjoys golf and plays several times a week. I am still sewing, doing watercolor, and volunteering both at our church and a nursing home. Our 3 children are married and we enjoy our 6 grandchildren, non of whom are married. We feel blessed to enjoy our time with family and friends and traveling both in the U.S. and Europe.
NOTRE DAME CAMPUS
100 YEARS
1926–2026
The Story Continues ALUMNAE UPDATES
Gloria Preiner Byers ‘66 I am enjoying retirement! I visit my daughter and her family in Missouri quite often. I enjoy puttering in my garden. There have been a couple of minor health issues pop up, but all is well. I am so grateful for my time at Notre Dame. Lifelong friendships were made and cherished. Just can’t believe it has been 60 years!
Mary Lou Melia Brennan ‘68 It's been many years since graduation. My husband, Tim, and I have been married 53 years. Our family consists of 3 children and 6 grandchildren ranging in age 11 to 23. Our oldest grandson recently graduated from UNL with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He is working for the Corp of Engineers in Pierre, South Dakota. Grandson number 2 is following in his brother’s footsteps; he has 2 more years of college.Their sister is a senior in high school, and number 3 and 4 grandsons are still in school. The first 4 grandchildren all worked at Abrahams Catering. Our other granddaughter will be in 6th grade at St. James Seton grade school. I have been diagnosed with ALS. My speech is unrecognizable and it's difficult to eat and swallow. I can still walk and drive, so not all is lost. Congratulations on 100 years. Praise be Jesus Christ in all things.
Marilyn Henderson Raymer ‘69 Sister Alexia was one of my favorite teachers. She inspired me in art. I’ve painted a lot of pictures. I’ve sold some, but mostly given to family and friends. I also have donated several to charity auctions. My long time friend was Ruth D’Agosta. She passed away 5 years ago. God love her. My beloved husband Joe passed away May 2025. He is missed beyond words
NOTRE DAME CAMPUS
100 YEARS
1926–2026
The Story Continues ALUMNAE UPDATES
Kathy Miklas ‘69 I earned a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Wayne State College and began teaching at Immaculate Conception School, followed by St. Bernadette School. I later earned a master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Nebraska at Omaha and served in a variety of speech-language pathology positions before retiring in 2023. I am currently living at Elmwood Tower Senior Living and a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Omaha, and I enjoy using my educational and professional experiences to help others in a variety of ways. One of my funniest memories from Notre Dame was falling off the back of the stage in the dark during the "beheading" scene in the freshman play, Daughters of Fear. I also remember learning more about how the Sisters lived in community as part of preparing for the play. Debate and Speech Contests helped me develop valuable public speaking skills that have served me throughout my life. I am deeply grateful for the outstanding college-preparatory education I received from the Notre Dame Sisters and the faculties at St. Adalbert School and Notre Dame Academy, which prepared me to serve God's people in many different ways.
Jonelle Nelson Robinson ‘70 I currently live in Evergreen, Colorado, which is just southwest of Denver. I worked in radio/tv in Chicago; as a newspaper reporter for a local paper in Des Plaines, IL; and lastly as a public librarian in Mt. Prospect, IL. Currently, I volunteer at the Evergreen Library; am in a Quilting Guild; and enjoy being in several book clubs. John and I are active in our parish and have made new friends through it, but I still miss my old NDA crowd!
Michaela Cockrell Hoffman ‘70 I am happily married to my high school sweetheart and still socialize with the great friends I made during high school at Notre Dame!
NOTRE DAME CAMPUS
100 YEARS
1926–2026
The Story Continues ALUMNAE UPDATES
Phyllis Swoboda Kool ‘70 I’m still living in Lincoln with my youngest daughter’s family. My son is in Baltimore, MD. My oldest daughter is in Chicago. I enjoy getting out to spend extended time with them and their families several times a year. I keep very busy with volunteering at our parish school, and president of our St. Vincent DePaul Conference at our parish. I really enjoy being able to help the needy in Lincoln. Our motto is “See the face of Christ. Be the face of Christ.”
Patty Vacek Fenner ‘70 I am over the top about the 100th Anniversary for Notre. I am Patty Vacek Fenner and graduated with the class of 1970. My sister, Phyllis Vacek Nelson '68, and my cousin Kris Kudlacz '70, cousins Susie Kovar Bass and Carol Kovar Almann went to Notre Dame. What a great family heritage! Since graduating from Notre Dame, I have stayed busy raising my family, including three children and eight grandchildren, who continue to bring me great joy. I served as an administrator for the Loveland, Colorado Housing Authority before moving to Wyoming after 16 years. There, I became Executive Director of Interfaith, a ministry serving people experiencing homelessness and poverty, where I developed a Transitional Housing Program for individuals and families. I later served as Executive Director of the Glenrock Senior Center. Today, I happily live in Colorado Springs, surrounded by my family.
Dr. Patricia Coyle-Rogers ‘70 I retired in 2017 after 50 years of Nursing as a staff nurse and a college professor. I received my PhD in 1998, as well as my MSN in 1992. My husband George and I have been married 50 years and are parents of 3 sons and 6 grandsons. We are “snowbirds” living in Los Lunas New Mexico in winter and Elk Mountain Wyoming in summer. We are enjoying our yearly change of scenery as we remain in good health and spirits. Stop by if you venture our way!
NOTRE DAME CAMPUS
100 YEARS
1926–2026
The Story Continues ALUMNAE UPDATES
Rita Eckley Fischer ‘70 It is hard to believe we have been out of high school for 56 years! I still live in Omaha; only about a mile from where I was raised. My husband John and I have been married for 51 years and we have two children. Paul is 46 and Anne is 42. We have four grandchildren. Alex is 20, Lily is 16, and twins Willow and William who are 15. I worked for 47 years for orthopedic doctors. Now I work at Holy Cross School.
Mary Angus ‘71 II have 3 grandchildren and 1 great granddaughter in Omaha, 3 in Missouri. I am still working at 2 jobs that I love: UNMC Munroe-Meyer LEND Self-Advocate Faculty and as the Digital Communication Manager for Technology for All. I see some of my best friends from high school. My Mother died 6 years ago, but my father is alive and kicking (as much as possible) at 96 years of age. He has since remarried and I love my Stepmother. My older daughter lives in my apartment with me since she took care of me after back surgery. I am writing a book about the history of how people with mental illness and developmental disabilities in Nebraska and on related issues across the country. If I ever finish it, I will cover over 150 years. Wish me well!
Michelle Reed Loseke ‘72 We continue to enjoy living in Tennessee where our daughter lives and plays violin with the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra. I love the lush green countryside and the mountains here. Due to the mild winters, I'm able to play tennis outside year round. Our son and daughter-in-law just blessed us with our first grandchild, so we will be traveling even more often to Seattle in the coming years.
NOTRE DAME CAMPUS
100 YEARS
1926–2026
IN MEMORIAM Forever in Our Hearts WE REMEMBER WITH LOVE OUR ALUMNAE WHO HAVE GONE BEFORE US.
Please join us in prayer for our beloved Alumnae and their loved ones who have moved on to eternal life. Those enrolled in the Memorial Association remain in the thoughts and prayers of the Sisters during our liturgies. An annual Memorial Mass, dedicated to remembering and honoring those who have passed away in the previous year, takes place every November. The names included in this commemorative book were received by July 29, 2026. Sr. Patricius Henderson OP ‘40 aunt of Margaret Herrley Zook ‘67
Joyce Marie Janovec ‘60 Dorothy Flock Meador ‘60 sister of Lillian Flock Davison ‘68
Betty Ann Kenworthy Muntean ‘48 sister of Camilla Kenworthy Cox, ‘51 sister of Lora Kenworthy Pecor ‘55 (d) non-grad sister of Mary Lee Kenworthy, ‘63 (d)
Sharon K Olson ‘60 Mary Ann Crnkovich Munchrath ‘61
Joan Hohman Schrepel ‘53 sister of Lois Hohman Christensen, (d) ‘55
Frances Herrley Blecha ‘62 daughter of Mary Henderson Herrley ‘41 sister of Margaret Herrley Zook ‘67
Lois Hohman Christensen ‘55 sister of Joan Hohman Schrepel ‘53 (d)
Dorothy Kelly Tripp ‘63
Marilyn Mahoney Nealon ‘58 sister of Irene Mahoney ‘47 (d)
Rosemary Smith Lauritsen ‘64 sister of Colleen Smith Conley ‘71 sister of Margaret Smith Blandford, Roncalli ‘76
Janet Skupa Dippell ‘60 sister of Joan Skupa Militti ‘65
Margaret Ann Casey Ward ‘65 sister of Kathleen Casey, ‘64 sister of Martha Casey Nelson, ‘68
Patricia Ann Pawoll Friend ‘60
NOTRE DAME CAMPUS
100 YEARS
1926–2026
IN MEMORIAM Forever in Our Hearts Linda Kruger Russell ‘66
Mary Frances Lampert ‘72 Linda M Nordues ‘72
Margaret Peers Bojanski ‘66 sister of Linda Peers Mueller ‘67
Cynthia Sue O’Keefe Zach ‘73 daughter of Kathy Welchert O’Keefe ‘46 (d) sister of Deb O’Keefe Winn ‘71 sister of Colleen O’Keefe Winter ‘77 non-grad
Sally Jo McColley Kirchoff ‘72 sister of Linda McColley Stevens ‘64 sister of Myrna McColley ‘66 sister of Mary Ann McColley Malnack ‘71
Mary Ann Taylor Soltis ‘74
Sr. Patricius Henderson ‘41
Betty Ann Kenworthy Muntean ‘48
Joan Hohman Schrepel ‘53
Lois Hohman Christensen ‘55
Marilyn Mahoney Nealon ‘58
Janet Skupa Dippell ‘60
Patricia Ann Pawoll Friend ‘60
Joyce Marie Janovec ‘60
Dorothy Flock Meador ‘60
Sharon K Olson ‘60
Mary Ann Crnkovich Munchrath ‘61
Frances Herrley Blecha ‘62
Dorothy Kelly Tripp ‘63
Rosemary Smith Lauritsen ‘64
Margaret Ann Casey Ward ‘65
Linda Kruger Russell ‘66
Peggy Peers Bojanski ‘66
Sally Jo McColley Kirchoff ‘72
Mary Frances Lampert ‘72
Linda M Nordues ‘72
Cynthia Sue O’Keefe Zach ‘73
Mary Ann Taylor Soltis ‘74
NOTRE DAME CAMPUS
100 YEARS
1926–2026
IN MEMORIAM WE REMEMBER THE RELATIVES OF NOTRE DAME ACADEMY ALUMNAE.
Rosa L Dynek sister of Elizabeth Rozmajl ‘42 (d)
Margaret A Silvestrini daughter of Joan Scott Silvestrini ‘56 (d)
Adolph J Horinek brother of Mildred Horinek Esposito ‘47 (d) brother of Virginia Horinek Burk ‘51
Stephen E Osterlink brother of Rose Marie Osterlink Anderson ‘60 (d) Norman Lee Tweedy husband of Mary Jane Yeshnowski Tweedy ‘61
Wiliam C Goeden husband of Rita Maly Goeden ‘51
Rosemary D Reeves mother of Mary Beth Reeves Clark ‘63 (d)
Martha R Prochaska sister of Georgia Bruner Nugent ‘52
Thomas E Hemmingson brother of Carol Hemmingson Rosenbaum ‘64 husband of Barbara Monjaraz Hemmingson ‘68 brother of Ruth Hemmingson Blum ‘69
Alice M Rotert sister of Laura Hansen Borgen ‘53 (d) Theresa M Ruzicka sister of Sr Mary Frances Michalec ND ‘53
Robert M Martin brother of Leslie Martin Fox ‘65 brother of Colleen Martin Polley ‘71 (d)
Henry J Machacek brother of Loretta Machacek D’Vor ‘55 (d)
Waldemar R Sliwa husband of Helen Waiter Sliwa ‘6
Harold Ortmeier husband of Betty Jean Stangel Ortmeier ‘56 (d)
NOTRE DAME CAMPUS
100 YEARS
1926–2026
IN MEMORIAM George Caleb Thompson husband of Renee Pearson Thompson ‘65
Robert M Smock husband of Linda Bayer Smock ‘69
Richard H Paes stepson of Elizabeth Vane Paes ‘66
George E Sachs husband of Sheila Gleason Sachs ‘70
William A Crumbley Sr husband of Catherine Murray Crumbley ‘69 Robert J Amend husband of Mary Alice Keenan Amend ‘69 Alan Joe Chritchfield husband of Leona Gredys Chritchfield ‘69
Scott D Spinharney brother of Michelle Spinharney Eckels, nongrad ‘73 brother of Debra Spinharney Ordway, nongrad ‘74 Lenore J Honke mother of Debbie Honke Hills ‘74
Our Lady of Notre Dame, Pray for us. NOTRE DAME CAMPUS
100 YEARS
1926–2026
THROUGH THE YEARS 1959
Then
100 YEARS OF FAITH, SERVICE & COMMUNITY
Now
2026
The Years Between.
Uniforms
1928
1974 dame acade my tre No
Traditions through Time.
Notre Dame Chapel
1961
1951
1971
Across the Generations.
Prom
2026
Then and Now.
1952
Prom Queen & King
1971
Prom King & Queen
Notre Dame Academy
School Song
The spirit of the white and blue, the spirit of Notre Dame, is harm for none and help for all, our patron’s glorious claim. Inspired by faith and loyalty, united in Mary’s name, we pledge our hearts in grateful love to you dear Notre Dame!
MOVING THE MISSION
Forward Together The spirit of Notre Dame lives on through you. Every day, you carry the mission forward whenever you: Let your faith guide your choices and actions each day. Nurture relationships rooted in respect, compassion, and Christ’s love. Are a source of encouragement, social responsibility, and hope in your communities. Serve those around you, sharing your time, talents, and resources locally and globally.
Educate, mentor, and uplift future generations.