Hurry - A Poem by Marie Howe

Hurry

We stop at the dry cleaners and the grocery store 
and the gas station and the green market and
Hurry up honey, I say, hurry, as she runs along two or three steps behind me her blue jacket unzipped and her socks rolled down.
To mine? Where one day she might stand all grown? 
you walk ahead of me. You be the mother.

Where do I want her to hurry to? To her grave?
Today, when all the errands are finally done, I say to her, 
Honey I'm sorry I keep saying Hurry—

And, Hurry up, she says, over her shoulder, looking 
back at me, laughing. Hurry up now darling, she says, 
hurry, hurry, taking the house keys from my hands.

--- Poem by by Marie Howe, 

                                                                                                       alumna of Prince Street class of 1968

Editors Note:  Marie Howe is the niece of Srs. Madeline and Margaret "Kelly" Howe, RSCJ who are both deceased.  I thought Marie's poem was befitting as we end National Poetry Month and celebrate her  appointment as 10th New York State Poet. 

Poem copyright ©2008 by Marie Howe, and reprinted from "When She Named Fire," ed., Andrea Hollander Budy, Autumn House Press, 2009. First published in "The Kingdom of the Ordinary" by Marie Howe, W.W. Norton, 2008. Used by permission of Marie Howe and the publisher. 

Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart Hosts Annual Congé and Honors Barbara Wood-Prince

Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart hosts  Congé 2013

Saturday, April 27th,  Woodlands hosted its 40th annual major Fundraising Event - Congé 2013

The Event Co-Chairs: Heather Kotlarz, Tom Flint and Lori Rosdalsky and the Live and Silent Auction Chairs: Mary Oelerich and Alison Kohlmeyer did a fabulous job! The room was beautifully displayed with an array of auction items and every detail was carefully thought out... from the Program, the Menu, right down to the Special Congé dessert!  

Tami Rocha, Associate Director of Marketing for Special Events and the Advancement office did an outstanding job as well!  

Congé Co-Chair Tom Flint said, "this year’s event will have a special twist. Congé will honor someone who has made an incredible difference to the Woodlands Academy community. Barbara Wood-Prince, a Board of Trustee member since 2007, will be recognized for her tremendous philanthropic initiatives to Woodlands. Congé is one way we come together as a community to celebrate the special place that Woodlands is and to help financially ensure that the educational mission of Woodlands Academy continues into the future. Woodlands is a place where each girl is encouraged to be a leader. So it’s fitting that we recognize one of our leaders while we raise funds to be solely used to help educate future leaders.”  

Barbara Wood-Prince, an alumna of Woodlands and Convent of the Sacred Heart (Noroton, CT) has been nominated by Woodlands Academy for the 2013 Archdiocesan Development Council IMPACT award which honors a volunteer or staff member whose commitment, energy and vision have promoted Catholic education in the school community of which he or she is a part. A resident of Lake Forest, Barbara co-chaired a multi-million dollar campaign to build a new Science Center to better equip students to pursue study in STEM fields, where women are generally under-represented. Barbara attended elementary school at the Academy of the Sacred Heart, in the basement of what later became Barat College in Lake Forest, the predecessor of Woodlands Academy.

It was a special evening for me as I first "met" Barbara Wood-Prince many years ago over the phone as I did research on alums who had attended the Academy of the Sacred Heart elementary school, in preparation for the Sesquicentennial Anniversary of the founding of the school.  After many years our paths have finally crossed, and we met in person at last year's Congé.  Barbara so richly deserved to be recognized and honored this evening for her faithful dedication over the years to Woodlands Academy. 

It was most rewarding to listen to Bridgett Riverol WA'13 speak of the gratitude she has for her Sacred Heart education.  Bridget proudly told us that she has been accepted at Northwestern University and will start this fall. 

I was especially grateful to be seated with Woodlands Academy Board Trustee, Margaret Mary O'Neill Conley, WA'49 and her husband, John who I have known for over 20 years, when we worked together. Additionally, Trustees John Popoli and his wife Chris; Mike Paterson and his wife Ann; and Marni Soderland Mans, WAAA President, were at my table. It was a delightful group and spectacular evening!  

Nancy Morris, RSCJ Honored with Alemany Award

Nancy Morris, RSCJ

Every year, in memory of Arcbishop Joseph Sadoc Alemany, OP, the first archbishop of San Francisco, the Dominican School of Philosophy and Theology honors men and women who have distinguished themselves by exemplary service to the church and community. This year the Alemany Award was presented to five religious whose work has exemplified the service to the church for which their congregations were founded.  One of those honored at the Alemany Award Dinner on April 6th was our very own Sr. Nancy Morris, RSCJ.   

Born and raised in Piedmont, California, Sister Nancy Morris was the middle child of seven children of John Morris and Thelma Toomey Morris. Attending local public schools, she graduated from the University of California at Berkeley in June, 1949 with a BA in English

A trip to post-war Europe deeply impacted her faith and, after a year teaching in a local high school, she entered the noviceship of the Religious of the Sacred Heart in Albany, New York. After her first vows, she returned to California to teach at the Convent of the Sacred Heart in San Francisco and thence to the boarding school in Menlo Park (now Atherton). She taught sophomores for three years before going to Rome to prepare for her final vows, made on July 29th, 1959.

Returning to Menlo Park, she continued to teach and was made Principal of the Convent School. Introduced to school administration on the Community's well-worn principle of "learning by doing", she prepared second-graders for 1st Communion and taught the seniors Religion. Suddenly, when she was getting the hang of the job, she was made President of the San Diego College for Women, and worked to merge the Women's College with the Men's College to become the one University of San Diego in 1971. She was then sent back to Menlo Park to become Director of Schools.

In 1998 Sister Morris was given a sabbatical and lived directly opposite St. Mary Magdalen Church in Berkeley. Dealing with the Loma Prieto earthquake and the Berkeley fire at that time were memorable experiences.

Sr. Morris moved to San Jose to work with the poor and homeless. She raised funds and wrote the monthly newsletter for the San Jose Family Shelter, witnessing first-hand the desperation so many new immigrants and impoverished families experience in our culture. She learned how to write foundation grants, a skill that held her in good stead as her Superiors asked her to travel the country, to help poverty-based ministries write proposals.

She went on to become the Development Director at an inner city Catholic school for girls in Chicago founded by the Sisters of Christian Charity. She returned to the Bay Area in 1997 and worked for a time at her old school in Menlo-Atherton. In the mornings, she worked at St. Raymond Elementary School while writing grants and the newsletter for Oakwood the Society's Infirmary on the campus of Sacred Heart Schools, Atherton. She continues to hold these two jobs today, enjoying being with young children once again. She is more involved with her parish, St. Raymond's and serves as co-chaplain to the Serra Club.

Congratulations to Nancy Morris, RSCJ!  

A Poem by Sr. Anna Mae Marheineke, RSCJ

Inaugurated by the Academy of American Poets in 1996, National Poetry Month is now held every April to celebrate poetry and its vital place in American culture.  Today's blog post is a poem taken from the book"Smile the Sun Around My Heart" The Collection of Poems of Anna Mae Marheineke, RSCJ.  Sr. Marheineke is a 1934 alumna of the Academy of Saint Charles and currently resides in California at the Oakwood Retirement Community. 

Ecce...Lux!

There's a forsythia beneath my window - 
second story.
Three bushes in a row,
and one all by its golden self
next to a stubborn elm, slow-
greening to Spring.
That frail yellow finery is more 
than a little brave, daring 
a sudden icy wind whipped loose
from the West.  The noose 
of winter urgently yields
to kite-crowded skies and expectant fields
turned to a timid sun. Dark, long
months my heart has hounded the dawn.
Now, breathless it catches Resurrection joy
resolute, buoyam, in the throng
of golden bells lacing slim
forsythia branches bright
below me. Deal kindly, O season
of life. Behold the handmaid of Light!

                                  --- Anna Mae Marheineke, RSCJ

Note:  If you wish to purchase a copy of Sr. Marheineke's collection of poems look under the heading on the right "Books by Sacred Heart Alum Authors" and click on the link to her book.

Sacred Heart Schools Chicago - Honors Joanne Barranco Steenveld, ASH '56

Sacred Heart Reunion Liturgy Celebrant: Fr. George Lane, SJ 

Sacred Heart Schools Chicago hosted its annual Reunion Liturgy and Luncheon at its Sheridan Road campus on Saturday, April 20.  Fr. George Lane, SJ celebrated mass and, during his homily, he noted that he too has a long history with Sacred Heart education.  Fr. Lane's mother, Jewel Kenny Lane, was a 1925 graduate from the Convent of the Sacred Heart in Lake Forest, aka Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart.  The oldest of seven children, Fr. Lane told us that he and his brothers all attended Loyola, and his two sisters are alumna of Sheridan Road.  The family grew up in St. Gertrude's parish.  Fr. Lane spoke of his appreciation for all that his mother had done for him as a young boy and how humbly she once remarked that any mother would do the same for her children.  An "attitude of gratitude" was the theme of his homily; stressing how important it is to recognize that everything is a gift.   It was truly a day filled with many gifts and blessings. Alums from the classes of 1951 to 1993 gathered for the annual Reunion Liturgy and Luncheon.  The food was scrumptious!  The program was prepared and presented by the Staff and members of the SRAA Board. Many thanks to Kathy Fivelson, Parent and Alumni Relations Director; Sophie Streeter, Parent and Alumni Relations Associate; newly hired Alumni Relations Associate, Carolyn Hall Napleton A'00; all the SRAA Board Members: especially President, Kwaben Komai A'83, and President Elect, Joey Yao H'88. 

Joanne Barranco Steenveld, ASH '56 – 2013 Recipient of the Catherine I. Seiker, RSCJ Award –  expressed gratitude for the honor bestowed upon her.  SRAA President Elect Joey Yao introduced "Mrs. Steenveld," one of his Hardey Prep teachers who had a very positive influence in his Sacred Heart education. Kwaben Komai and Joey then presented her with a statue of Mater.  Joanne, who was surrounded by many classmates from Sheridan Road and Barat College – as well as friends and family – held up the beautiful statue and said, “Today is "Prize Day" for me.”     Joanne thoughtfully reflected on her Sacred Heart education and her teaching career.  She spoke of Primes and the many occasions she received a card with the word "Bien" written on it. Joanne concluded by expressing gratitude for St. Madeleine Sophie Barat, St. Rose Philippine Duchesne and Mater for her education and the gifts she has received.  To read more about Joanne and the award click here.  

Also, in attendance at the Reunion luncheon was Rosemary O'Neil an alumna of both Sheridan Road '42 and Maryville College '46 and most notably the 2013 Cor Unum recipient from the Central Region at the 39th AASH National Conference hosted in Omaha on April 13.  

It was definitely a day full of gratitude for all things Sacred Heart!

An "Attitude of Gratitude" was evident at the Luncheon 

Primes: Originally the first exercise of the week in a school of the Sacred Heart, Primes was the assembly of students and religious at which judgment on the previous week’s conduct, good or bad, and results of the previous week’s tests were announced. Medals for politeness, for order, and for excellence in various academic subjects were also awarded, to be worn for a particular week. But Primes was also an exercise in poise. Each class was called, formed two by two, and advanced toward what could seem an intimidating group of black-garbed nuns. After forming a semicircle in front of the religious, the class curtseyed and waited for “notes” to be read. A card imprinted Tres Bien signified “very good” in behavior; a card with Bien meant “good;” a card with Assez Bien meant “good enough,” or rather “not good enough.” If a student was not bien at all, she did not receive a card, simply an oral report of “no notes,” a judgment to be dreaded. A student was expected to answer with graciousness and dignity any comment or question of Reverend Mother. This weekly practice has been replaced with monthly/quarterly, annual assemblies.

Prize Day: Sometimes referred to simply as “Prizes,” Prize Day brings a formal end to the school year in some Sacred Heart schools. Students are recognized for their academic achievements throughout the year and, in some schools, for character formation. The school community comes together for a formal assembly to distribute the prizes. In former days, the prizes usually consisted of books; now the prize can often be a certificate or award recognizing specific achievement. From the youngest to the oldest, the students are taught to accept awards graciously and to applaud the skills and talents of others. This practice continues in most of our schools today. In some schools the term Prize Day has been replaced with “Sacred Heart Awards” or some other title.

Home Dinners - A Tradition at AASH Conferences

A wonderful home dinner hosted by Dr. Britt and Kelly Thedinger

Home dinners have been a long tradition during the past 80 years that AASH conferences have been held.  Most everyone when asked will say they went to the "best home dinner"!  It gives the conference attendee an opportunity to experience the hospitality and cuisine from a local perspective. Last Friday evening, I was a guest at the home of Duchesne Academy Board Trustee, Dr. Britt Thedinger and his wife Kelly. The Thedinger's daughter, Ainsley is an alumna of Duchesne Academy and it was obvious that they are very proud of the education their daughter received at Duchesne.

Our small intimate group made for an evening filled with lively conversation.  Cor Unum awardee, Jean Hicks Miller, her husband Ken, her sister Gail and very good friend Monsignor Mark Campbell were among the dinner guests.  Also on the guest list were incoming AASH Board member, Roselie Bellanca Posselius and AASH Past President Mary Jane Taber Houlihan, AASH Past Board Member Michele Finn, as well as, Jeanne Burke O'Fallon, Sr. Gina Rodee, RSCJ and Sheila Haggas, Head of School.

We started off the evening introducing one another to our hosts while we enjoyed cocktails and delicious appetizers followed by a tour of the house and its beautiful artwork. Our dinner and dessert were a culinary treat! During dinner Dr. Thedinger told us of his interest in collecting prints by artist Mauricio Lasansky and his experience as a past parent and current Trustee at Duchesne.  It was a most comfortable and relaxing evening.  Yes, this was the best home dinner!  Many thanks to our gracious hosts for opening up their home and hearts and treating us to a lovely Sacred Heart tradition - Home Dinners.

39th Biennial AASH Conference Opening Reception Hosted at Hilton Omaha

Wednesday, April 10, 2013

 39th Biennial AASH Conference

The Opening Wine and Cheese Reception was a wonderful way to start off the conference.  Many alums eagerly greeted one another and relaxed after a long day of travel due to weather related delays. In loving memory of Shelagh Mary O'Dwyer (1920-2012), alumna of Point Grey Convent of the Sacred Heart, Vancouver, British Columbia, Class of 1938, and in recognition of her devotion to the Associated Alumnae and Alumni of The Sacred Heart and her great love of AASH Conferences, her executor and friends made a legacy gift to AASH.  The reception was in honor of and underwritten by  the extraordinary gift from Shelagh's estate.  The Sacred Heart values of generosity and joyous coming together were central to Shelagh's life and the gift will be a lasting legacy of this remarkable and beloved alumna. 

Johnny's Cafe ...Omaha's Original Steakhouse Since 1922

MER with Kari Kawa Harding A85

If you plan on attending the 39th AASH Biennial Conference in Omaha this week and your in the mood for some great food - I recommend Johnny's Cafe.  Johnny's Cafe has been around since 1922 and is known as Omaha's Original Steakhouse. Located at 4702 S. 27th Street - Call for reservations 402-731-4774.

Frank Kawa opened Johnny's Cafe in 1922 and his two sons took over the daily operation after he passed away  in the 1960's.  In the 1990's, Kari Kawa Harding and Sally Kawa both alumnae of Duchesne Academy in Omaha joined the restaurant as the third generation to run Johnny's Cafe. My dining experience was exceptional!  What I liked best was the delicious and complementary liver pate and cottage cheese spread; the classic cocktails and delicious steak with mushroom wine sauce.  And if you are in the mood for dessert try the Ice Cream Turtle Pie! 

Duchesne Academy Omaha...Host of the AASH 39th Biennial Conference

As seen on the exterior of the Main Building* - Duchesne Omaha, NE

The 80th Anniversary of AASH is soon to be celebrated in Omaha April, 10-14, 2013.  For more info click on this link.  We look forward to seeing you and welcoming all of our Sacred Heart Alums and Guests.



                                                                                                                            * Photo Credit: Mary R. Schumacher, RSCJ, LPC

A Poem by Bonnie Kearney, RSCJ

Sacred Jordan River

John and Jesus

It all began in water

The two leaping and dipping within the

Wombworld.

Later John pled no contest

As he poured the water over Jesus.

For even then he knew

He would not walk on it,

Transform it into wine,

Release it from his pierced heart;

But in that moment, at the Jordan, the water made them

One on the road to redemption.

                           -- Bonnie Kearney, RSCJ

                                        Alumna of Woodlands Academy '61, Manhattanville '65, Barat College '68

In keeping with the theme of National Poetry Month, I am happy to share a poem sent to me today.  If you have a special poem written by an RSCJ or fellow Sacred Heat Alum that you wish for me to post, please send to me at AASH President MER

Photo credit