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Class Notes
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Class Notes
Have an exciting update — such as a career achievement, a wedding, or a new addition to your family (baby or grandchild)? Share your news and stay connected with fellow Naz alumni.
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Nina David ’74
Theatre Arts
I am delighted to have performed with the Frog & Peach Theatre Company in Macbeth, back on March 6 at the ATA Cullum Theater in NYC.
Program Cover of Macbeth at the ATA Cullum Theater in NYC.
Marsha Smith ’70
English Literature
As a member of the Rochester (New York) Genealogical Society Writers’ Group, I participated in producing our first book: Many Paths: Discovering Family Histories, edited by Laurie Bauer and John A. Albertini. My chapter traced a maternal great-grandaunt, and the process was both challenging and rewarding. Our diverse group of thirteen authors worked on a common task, via zoom across several states, for roughly 18 months— and achieved our goal. The experience of community felt like a story in itself. We continue meeting monthly and supporting each other in research and writing.
Marsha A. Smith, Class of 1970
Jeanette Martino Land ’58
English Literature
LIGOURI PUBLICATIONS will publish my book of poetry, "Abiding Graces," in the Fall of 2027. I recently presented the morning session at a Day of Reflection, at Our Lady of Florida Spiritual Center in North Palm Beach, Florida.
Toni Stevens-Oliver ’92
Fine Arts
In June, Toni Stevens-Oliver retired after teaching 4th grade for 33 years, 23 of that at Thornell Road School in Pittsford. During those years she was the recipient of the Historic Pittsford Preservation Award for Education, the New York State Archives Educator Award for Excellence in the Use of Primary Source Documents, the Air Force Association Chapter Teacher of the Year and she received a Monroe County Legislature Excellence in Teaching proclamation.
She now works as an educational consultant creating content for the NYS Archives Jr! Magazine, a free resource for teachers in NYS. She is also supervising student teachers for Roberts Wesleyan University, serving as the School Liaison/Mail Call Coordinator for Honor Flight Rochester and is the State American History Chair for the Daughters of the American Revolution, as well as serving as board member for the Jewish Federation of Rochester's Shinshinim program.
Zoey Baird ’21, ’22G
Spanish, Inclusive Adolescence Edu GR (SOE)
This past fall, I received the NYSAFLT Harriet S. Barnett Novice Teacher Award. I am the first time nominee for this award, with the requirements being: a world language teacher of five years or less who has demonstrated growth, commitment to teaching all students, commitment to professional growth, and alignment with NYSAFLT’s Strategic Goals. This award is a huge honor given the rich history and contributions Harriet S. Barnett has given to the world language profession. I highly encourage any world language teacher to join NYSAFLT - by joining, you enter a community where you are supported and provided many opportunities to grow among your colleagues. Within the education profession, I believe community is essential, and finding yours will only enhance your career. I have so much gratitude to everyone within the NYSAFLT, as well as those who supported me along the way.
NYSAFLT Annual Conference Award Ceremony
Marisa Favro Geitner ’92, ’95G
SpPath SpcHearEd, Speech Language Pathology GR
Marisa Geitner has been named the Greater Rochester Chamber Inclusive Leadership Award recipient. This award is presented annually to a leader in the Rochester region whose work exemplifies a deep and lasting commitment to fostering belonging across diverse backgrounds. In addition, the Rochester Business Journal has named Marisa to its 2025 Power List for Health Care, which honors efforts to improve the health of the Rochester community.
Marisa Geitner was joined by Heritage Christian Services colleagues as she accepted the Inclusive Leadership Award.
Linda Pratt ’11G
International TESOL GR
Linda retired from RIT as a co-Facilitator in Year One Programs in December, 2025. She joined RIT in 2007 as a pronunciation instructor in the English Language Center in December, 2007. She transitioned to the Academic Success Center in 2015 as an academic coach, and became part of Year One Programs in 2019.
Kelly Hanning ’13, ’16G
Studio Art, Art Education GR
I wanted to reach out as an Alum (undergrad 2013, grad 2016) with some exciting news. I went through the Studio Art undergrad program and the Art Education master's program at Naz and have been an Art Educator in the Rochester area for 10 years. I am publishing a book on art-specific classroom choreography and 'stuff' management. Below is a link to the publication via Teachers College Press:
I co-authored this book with Nazareth's Art Ed program director, Dr. Samantha Nolte-Yupari.
30 Kids, 1 Sink by Dr. Samantha Nolte-Yupar and Kelly Hanning
Gregory Speranza ’88, ’91G
English Literature
Gregory Speranza, ‘88 & ‘91G and Vivi Speranza Wedding
Front Row: Vivi Speranza, Greg Speranza, ‘88 & ‘91G
Back Rows, Left to Right:
Rick Boerman, 89, John Sidou ‘88, Kevin Hennessy ‘88, Mike Donahue ‘90, Paul Donahue ‘88 & ‘91G, Dan McGrath ‘88, Paul Antinelli ‘88 & ‘92G, Andy Kosara ‘88, Al Wood ‘88, Anne Ulrich McCaffrey ‘89, Kris Loiacano LaRose ‘88, Chris McCaffrey ‘87, Bob Donahue ‘87, Mary Theresa Clifford Boerman ‘88 & ‘97G, Mary VanDeMortel McGuigan ‘88 & ‘94G, Jim McPartlin ‘88, Paul Leone ‘89
Nazareth U Represents at Speranza Wedding Reception, August 2025
Sybil Bahrman Grayko ’96
English Literature
Received 2025-2026 Newport, RI Teacher of the Year
Emily Crerand ’08
History
Emily Crerand '08 married Joe Diver in Washington, D.C. on September 20, 2025. Emily and Joe met as Chiefs of Staff on Capitol Hill.
Emily Labenski (Cannon) '08, Amanda McIntosh ‘08, Jenna Cline (Tirohn) '08 and Colleen King (Bayer) '08 were all present to help celebrate.
Kimberlee Humphrey ’81
Business Admin
Kim Humphrey, President/CEO of the Association for Manufacturing Excellence (AME.org) was appointed to serve on Virginia Governor Youngkin's Manufacturing Development Commission.
Herbie Pilato ’83
Theatre Arts
Award-winning writer/producer/director Herbie J Pilato has signed with the Jerry Pace/Starburst Talent Agency, marking a return to acting.
Kimberlee Humphrey ’81
Business Admin
The Association for Manufacturing Excellence (AME) President and CEO Kimberlee Humphrey has been awarded the esteemed Malcolm Baldrige Foundation Award for Leadership Excellence in Nonprofit. This award recognizes exceptional leadership in driving innovation, quality and performance excellence across the United States. The award was officially presented at the Baldrige Quest for Excellence 2025
Michael Barker ’91G
Mike was inducted into the Fairport Central School District Educator’s Wall of Distinction in October of 2025. He was recognized for over 25 years as a teacher and a coach in the district.
Jarod Koopman ’03
Accounting
Was recently named IRS Chief Tax Compliance Officer and has responsibility for oversight of the IRS compliance operations of the Large Business & International division, Small Business/Self Employed division, Tax Exempt and Government Entities division, IRS Criminal Investigation, the Office of Professional Responsibility, the Return Preparer Office, the Whistleblower Office, and Enterprise Case Management.
Jarod’s work has also been recognized in the bestselling book Who is Government by Michael Lewis, and featured in the Washington Post series:
Cyber Sleuth – Washington Post
Aldona Sabalis ’69
Art Education
Allie Sabalis’ watercolor, “Aquatic 1,” was among 10 artworks chosen from more than 400 submissions for installation at the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training. As quoted in the "Jamestown Press": "Sabalis is known for her large-scale, transparent paintings that blend vibrant color with realism. The aim of her work is to capture 'fleeting ‘moments in time’ with a meditative, Zenlike sensibility,' which invites viewers into a space of stillness and recognition."
This competition, through the Rhode Island State Council for the Arts, was judge by a labor agency representative, an architect, and two professional artists. After graduating with her Bachelor's from Nazareth, Allie obtained her Master's form the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn. She was originally born in Germany.
Allie Sabalis' watercolor, "Aquatic 1"
Jillian Schwartz ’15, ’17G
Physical Therapy, Health Sciences
Married Tyler Albrecht `16, `18G on September 4th, 2022.
Top Row: Caleb Miraglia `16, `18G, Thomas DiFilippo `18G, Michael Stanley `16, Christopher DeVos `18G, Chelsea Mannion `16 `18G, Grant Levermore `16, `18G, Joe Schwartz `84G, Kyle Lewis `16, `17G, Damond Archung `16 `18G, Corinne Levermore `16, Nicholas Collesano `15, `17G, Casey Elston `14, `16G, Luke Elston `14. Bottom Row: Kelly Maloney `17, `19G, Eric Tatar `16, Ariel Hart Tatar, Sydney Albrecht `20, groom, bride, Sophie DeCastro `16, Brian Rosiek `16, Alison Burt Rosiek `17, `18G, Meghan Grant `15 `17G, Deanna Rocco `14.
Kelsey Sweet ’15
Communication & Rhetoric
Was named a finalist for the Buffalo Niagara Partnership's 2023 ATHENA Young Professional Leadership Award.
The award honors an emerging leader who demonstrates excellence, creativity, and initiative in their business or profession, and serves as a role model for young women personally and professionally.
Jordan Sutton Fritz ’08
Accounting
Made a major career change in spring of 2020 as they left their full time corporate job to become a full time sole entrepreneur of their two businesses (Sip Back & Relax Tours and JF Bookkeeping Solutions). In the fall of 2022, Jordan was elected onto the boards of both the Rochester Women’s Network and the Western Wayne Chamber of Commerce.
Kayla Miller ’22
Commun Science & Disorders
Wrote her first children's book, I Am... Self-Discovery! This book allows children to discover the power of positive words and affirmations to boost their confidence level, and to remind themselves that they will always be enough. There's a personalized certificate at the end to guide children into building their own shield of armor. She is so excited to be able to share her first book with the world. You can order a copy at www.kaylamiller.com.
Lisa Salvaggio Mckim ’09
Psychology
Became a licensed mental health counselor and school adjustment counselor at a middle school in Massachusetts! She started her schools therapeutic learning center, a classroom for students returning from extended absences due to mental health and/or general health concerns. Lisa recently spoke at the Bridge for Resilient Youth in Transition (BRYT) Symposium at Bently University where she shared innovative practices from the field. She works with one of the most vulnerable populations in the school setting. Lisa has felt this has been her calling since her time at Naz. Her courses in psychology inspired Lisa to go into the counseling field. She believes she was well prepared, and even used some of the same textbooks, when she went to graduate school! She highly recommends for students to complete an internship in their senior year to gain real-world experience and research all the options that psychology has to offer!
Diane Lippa-Bemis ’75
French
Members of the Class of 1975 gathered at Ann Kopczynski Crerand's home to celebrate the year of the 70th birthday!
In attendance was, left to right standing: Marabeth Wasuck Nally `75, 80G, Sheila Nunn Murphy `75, `76G, Sarah Ann Stack Feinberg `75, Sheila McLaughlin McCarthy `75, Donna Johnson Phillipson `75, Michelle Loughlin Cutro `75, `80G, Loretta Kocik `75, Patrice Koeneke Walkinshaw `75, Esq, and Ginny Noonan Tortorici `75. Left to right sitting: Diane Lippa-Bemis `75, Patricia Burke McNamara `75, Kathie Hogan Collier `75, Peggy Williams Mason `75, Christine Crowe Martin `75, Diane Lucchesi Muscarella `75, Ann Kopczynski Crerand `75, `79G, Rose Nastasi Ackerly `75, Andrea Bonafiglia `75, `81G.
Herbie Pilato ’83
Theatre Arts
Recorded the audiobook edition of his book Retro Active Television at the Famous Radio Ranch in Sherman Oaks with Eric Scott.
Victoria Visiko ’83
Theatre Arts
Has an original play, "WHISPERING INHIBITIONS". Her one act play is based on her true story of lost innocence and a search for redemption. This was the first play ever at presented at Off Broadway - NYC at Birdland Theatre on March 25, 2023!
Monica Weis ’64A, ’65, SSJ
English Literature
And Professor Emerita of English was one of five Thomas Merton scholars who presented at a plenary panel at the June 2023 International Thomas Merton Society: "Women Who Helped Us Know Merton." Monica spoke on how nature influenced Merton's spirituality.
Lindsey Smith Hoverter ’13
Communication & Rhetoric
Married Terence Hoverter on October 1, 2022, in Cazenovia, New York. There were several Nazareth alumni in attendance.
From left to right: Sara Heron Whalen `11, Amy Tooley `08, Catrina Sunderlin DeSantis `12 `14G, Alex Bracy Menard `13 `15G, Zoe Hilpl `13, Nina Fargnoli `12, Breanna Smith Griswold `11, Jordan Mitchell Aungier `12, Sarah Wazenkewitz Rodriguez `14, Susan Snow Smith `83, Emily Conway Ladilov `11 `13G, Kailee O'Hara Petrie `13, Caitlyn Angelidis '11 '16G.
Nicklaus Ambrose ’04
Business Admin, Economics
Was promoted to Executive Vice President and Director of Corporate Reporting at M&T Bank. He is responsible for managing the company's compliance with various SEC and Federal Reserve external reporting requirements.
Leslie Elliott Vecchiotti ’85, ’90G
SpPath SpcHearEd
The Class of `85 and `86 celebrated 42 years of friendship.
Front row: Kathy Jo Domenici Kline '85, John O'Gorman '85, '90G. Back row: Paul Manzella '85, Leslie Elliott Vecchiotti '85, '90G, Judson Speer '85, John "Ozzy" Cammarosano '85, Steve Klumpp '86, and Susan Willison Maddamma '86, '94G.
Stephanie Kawzenuk Epstein ’12
Music Therapy
With several alums celebrated the Ukulele Kids Club's 10th anniversary on May 8, 2023.
Left to right: Michael Park `90, Laurie Nowak Park `91, Stephanie Epstein `12. Picture 2: Left to right: Michael Park `90, Laurie Park `91, Stephanie Epstein `12, Taylor Santabarbara `20, `23G, Reissa Ress `09, Andrew Derado `11.
Briana Sanford Seim ’17
Music Therapy
Married Matthew Seim on August 19th, 2023 at Lake Lyndsay in Hamilton, OH.
Left to right: Maid of Honor Tori Gac `17, Bride, Groom, Hadley Strelau `19.
Christopher Nothnagle ’99
Studio Art, Theatre Arts
During Naz Weekend, a bunch of alumni gathered at alum-owned Nine Spot Brewing downtown. As part of Nazareth's centennial celebrations, we've partnered with Chris Nothnagle `99 and Nine Spot to offer our centennial brew.
From left to right: Alan Wood `88, Todd Calman `87, Chris Nothnagle `99 (co-owner of Nine Spot), Joe Convertino `87, Chris McCaffrey `87.
Deanna Spiotta ’09
Music
Left to Right: Lisa Salvaggio McKim `08, Gina Totaro `09, Allyson Smith `09 `12G, Deanna Spiotta Carlin `09, Eric Carlin, Chelsea Carhart Lehmann `09, Karen Hertline `09 `11G, Adele Flanagan Rosati `09, Lindsey Eagan `08A, `09 `11G, Katelyn Marasco `09.
Deanna Spiotta `09, married to Eric Carlin, June 3, 2023.
Courtney Ames Germain ’07, ’16, ’17G
Mathematics, Occupational Therapy GR, Occupational Science
Welcomed a baby girl, Eliza Grace Germain on January 26, 2023 at 4lb 11oz.
Keith Smith ’89
Theatre Arts
Married his partner of 32 years.
Elizabeth Osta ’67
SpPath SpcHearEd
Is thrilled to be announcing the upcoming publication of her fourth book, Maggie's Brood, an Irish immigrant's tale of tragedy, trauma and triumph. Centered in Lima, New York, Nazareth College is included as are the Sisters of St. Joseph, along with other local highlights.
Donna Detraglia Colebeck ’78
Art Education
Has attended as many 5 year anniversaries as she could since her time at Nazareth. The last reunion she attended was for 40 years graduated. She had planned on attending the reunion for 45 years. However, unfortunately, she was unable to attend this reunion as her husband, Ted, had open heart surgery that same week. Nazareth prepared Donna for life in the arts. She is still engaged as a Sr. Lecturer in the College of the Arts at Kennesaw State University in the Atlanta, Georgia area. In August, 2023, Donna received the College of the Arts Teaching Award for outstanding performance and lasting contribution to the College of the Arts. To her fellow classmates, she sends well wishes, hopes they are enjoying their engagements, activities, and "bucket lists," and reflecting on positive life experiences including the years at and friendships from Nazareth College!
Linda Nicknish Knoll ’69
English Literature
A group of 1969 alum began weekly Zoom sessions during Covid. They held an in-person mini-reunion in September, 2023 in Asheville, NC including this trip to the Biltmore Estate. Some of these alums had not seen each other in person for 50 years!
From left to right: Linda Nicknish Knoll `69, Joyce Rimlinger `69, Margie Iannuzzi Adamshick `69, Cathy Goodman McGrath `69, Mary Read Saperstone `69, `74G, Beth Tupacz Imes `69, Anna Serafini Heisel `69, Linda Bordieri Pandolfe `69, Carol VanBurek Ferreri `69.
Meghan Macri Lounsbury ’18, ’20G
Health Sciences, Physical Therapy
Married Dr. Steven Lounsbury `18, `20G on August 19, 2023 at Holy Cross Church in DeWitt, NY. Meghan and Steven met during their time at Nazareth in the Doctor of Physical Therapy program. Other alumni in attendance were bridesmaid Miranda Hagen `18 and Dr. Taylor Durocher Whitney `18, `20G. Their wedding had many references to their time together at Nazareth, such as their wedding colors (yellow/gold and purple) and their table markers, named after buildings on Nazareth’s campus. Meghan and Steven both work as physical therapists in the Syracuse, NY area and love to visit Rochester whenever they can!
Meghan & Steven married on August 19, 2023 at Holy Cross Church in DeWitt, NY.
Mel Bowman Wilson ’70A, ’71, ’87
Nursing, History
Was honored with the 2023 Lifetime Achievement Award by the Emergency Nurses Association.
Sheila A. Walsh S.SJ.
Several alums attended a dress rehearsal.
Left to right. Front row: Sr. Elizabeth Anne LeValley `64, S.S.J., Clare Brown `66, `74G, Mary Cumbo `63, S.S.J., Sr. Dorothy Meisenzahl `68, Bri Minix, Veronica Coseo, Sr. Maureen Halack `66, `69, Mary Jo Flynn, Sr. Alice Cooney `62, S.S.J.. Back row: Sr. Phyllis Tierney `62, `67G, S.S.J., Sr. Alicia Schur `64, Sr. Mary Ann Sliwa `66, S.S.J., Sr. Anne Marvin `68, `77G, S.S.J., Sr. Kathleen Lurz `64, `75G, Anthony Falzano, Sr. Sheila Walsh '71, S.S.J..
Ann Renee Clement Wilsey ’81, ’85G
Business Admin
Alumni gathered in Arizona!
Front row, from left: Traci Lian `00 (Associate Athletic Director), Ann Renee Wilsey `81, '85G, Jolene DiBrango `95G. Back row, from left: Pete Bothner (Athletic Director), Peter Wilsey, Joe DiBrango.
Carol Papadopoli Basi ’62
Chemistry
Classmates from 1962 gathered at Mote Marine Aquarium in Sarasota, FL in October, 2023. They had a great time visiting and catching up with each other's lives. "We always share Nazareth memories- the wonderful years and teaching staff we encountered between 1958 and 1962. Nazareth meant something very special to all of us and it has had an impact on our lives to this day.".
Left to right: Kathleen Scanlon McKeown `62, Janet Keaveny Morris `62, Marie Van Ness `62, Anne Gawkins `62, Mary Ann Browne Sanborn `62, Beth Carey Ruszczyk `62, and Carol Papadopoli Basi `62
Alexa Courtney ’13
Mathematics
I married my bestfriend!
Alexa Courtney '13, married to Alex Goettel '15, May 13, 2023.
Andrea Hinchey Unson ’88
Mathematics
Andrea Unson `88 is retired from her teaching position at Hilton High School as of 2021. Now she volunteers often. Andrea drives for Meals on Wheels and WestSide Express. She volunteers at Unity Hospital in the Golisano Rehabilitation Center, the TCC, and does friendly visits. She volunteers at her church, Gates Presbyterian, by cutting lawns, and making 70 bagged lunches for St. Joseph's House of Hospitality. As a small part time job, Andrea lifeguards for the Y and Gates Chili Central School District. Life is good.
Karen Moore Larimer ’66
English Literature
Cathy LaLonde Butry `66, Jeanne Gaser McElhinney `66, Margie Weider `66, Barbara Olmstead Long `66, Camille Vistocco DelVecchio `66, Nora Brennan Shannon `66, Mary Randall McMahon `66, Donna Eddy Treat `66.
The women of the Class of 1966, have maintained their close connection since their graduation from Nazareth College (now University) 58 years ago by sharing in Class Reunions on campus and decade birthday parties arranged by a classmate on Edisto Island, SC. They have read together for their book club and met for Mystery Tours, Lakeside Luncheons, zoom talks, volunteer activities and even Friday night poker games. To cap all these activities, this year over 40 classmates from across the country will gather April 7-9 at a rental property in the Finger Lakes as the universe celebrates their 80th birthdays with a total eclipse of the sun!
Carol Turo ’11
Psychology
Received her Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification.
Robert A. Jr. Randall
Coached with the Israeli National Team. They want to share their gratitude for the brotherhood of our alumni support system and hope to represent Nazareth in these games.
Stephanie Miller Smyka ’97
English Literature
Was honored with the 2023 Curriculum Award by the Genesee Valley Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (GVASCD). She also was elected as the Vice President of the Reading Recovery Council of North America for 2023-2024.
Gabriela Hernandez Pandya ’20G
TESOL GR (SOE)
Is a special agent with the U.S. Department of State's Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) serving as a liaison at the FIFA Women's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. DSS is the security lead for the United States at the Women's World Cup and our personnel in Australia and New Zealand are serving in liaison, advisory, and security support roles to protect the U.S. Women's National Soccer Team as well as U.S. corporate stakeholders and members of the U.S. media attending the Women's World Cup.
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