Commencement 2025 | Saint Mary's College

Thank you for joining us for the Saint Mary's College 178th Commencement. Congratulations to all of our graduates and their families!

Outstanding Senior Award Outstanding Senior Award
Lumen Christi Award Lumen Christi Award
Madeleva Award Madeleva Award

Welcome to the 178th Commencement at Saint Mary's College. Below is the program for today's ceremony. A pdf version is available to download by clicking here.

Academic Procession

National Anthem

Julia Zusi ’25

Invocation

Maureen Karnatz Smith ’85
Chair, Board of Trustees

Welcome

Katie Conboy, Ph.D.
President

Lumen Christi Award

Katie Conboy

Madeleva Award

Colleen M. Hoover, Ph.D.
Associate Provost and Dean of Graduate Studies

Presentation of Valedictorian Medals

Megan Zwart, Ph.D.
Interim Provost and Vice President

Kathryn Clem
Molly Minick
Piper Ogden
Bridget Walicki

Valedictory Address

Kathryn Clem

Citations for Honorary Degrees

Megan Zwart

Commencement Address

Mary McAleese, Ph.D.

Citations for Graduate and Undergraduate Degrees in Course

Megan Zwart

Presentation of Graduates

Tracy P. White
Director of Advising

Conferral of Degrees and Charge to the Class

Katie Conboy

The Bells of Saint Mary’s

Tenley Edvardsen ’25

Recession

Guests are asked to remain seated until the recession is complete.

Class of 2025

The Degree of Doctor of Nursing Practice

Mary Therese Auber
Portage, MI
Family Nurse Practitioner
Director: Dr. Sue Anderson

Sandeep K. Bains
Indianapolis, IN
Family Nurse Practitioner
Director: Dr. Sue Anderson

Colleen Mary Bonser
Livonia, MI
Family Nurse Practitioner
Director: Dr. Nicole Mentag

Hannah Chenoweth
Hobe Sound, FL
Family Nurse Practitioner
Director: Dr. Lori Pajakowski

Danielle Renee Dobe
Crown Point, IN
Family Nurse Practitioner
Director: Dr. Nicole Mentag

Leigh Hannah Flegge-Schlie
Fort Wayne, IN
Family Nurse Practitioner
Director: Dr. Sue Anderson

Lauren Brianne Kinniry
Fort Wayne, IN
Family Nurse Practitioner
Director: Dr. Nicole Mentag

Antonia Marie McIntyre
Fernandina Beach, FL
Adult Gerontology Acute Care
Director: Dr. Daniela Edson

Kendra Elizabeth Osinski
Orange, CT
Adult Gerontology Acute Care
Director: Dr. Daniela Edson

Allison Thome Spruell
Valparaiso, IN
Family Nurse Practitioner
Director: Dr. Lori Pajakowski

Taylor Alexis Torres
Mishawaka, IN
Family Nurse Practitioner
Director: Dr. Lori Pajakowski

Kathleen Mary White
Chicago, IL
Family Nurse Practitioner
Director: Dr. Nicole Mentag

The Degree of Master of Science

Claire Delaney Bartz
Niles, MI
Speech Language Pathology

Rachel Borg
South Bend, IN
Speech Language Pathology

Yshel Brito Azcatl
Phoenix, AZ
Speech Language Pathology

Claire Marie Brogan
Valparaiso, IN
Speech Language Pathology

Lauren Elizabeth DeVries
Grand Rapids, MI
Speech Language Pathology

Grace Kelley Enright
Palos Heights, IL
Data Science

Sarah Hagen
Evansville, IN
Speech Language Pathology

Sarah Dorothy Harman
Mattawan, MI
Data Science

Luann Hernandez-Montaño
Elkhart, IN
Speech Language Pathology

Alyssa Paige Himschoot
South Bend, IN
Speech Language Pathology

Andie Larissa Kizer
Plymouth, IN
Speech Language Pathology

Elisabeth Anne Klinedinst
Grovertown, IN
Speech Language Pathology

Olivia Jean Mann
Indianapolis, IN
Speech Language Pathology

Anna Frances Martin
Iowa City, IA
Speech Language Pathology

Olivia Marie Miller
Stevensville, MI
Speech Language Pathology

Molly Kathryn Puglessi
Ada, MI
Speech Language Pathology

Britney Ann Rank
Elkhart, IN
Speech Language Pathology

Katrina Rose
Wolcottville, IN
Data Science

Bailey Lynne Siglow
Coloma, MI
Speech Language Pathology

Sofie Layne Stratton
South Bend, IN
Speech Language Pathology

Carly Lynn Tittle
Edwardsburg, MI
Speech Language Pathology

Hannah Mary Urbanski
Granger, IN
Speech Language Pathology

Jensen Weaver
Indianapolis, IN
Speech Language Pathology

Madeline Angela Yohon
Lexington, KY
Speech Language Pathology

The Degree of Master of Science in Nursing

Courtney Lauren Chookie
Warsaw, IN
Nursing

Annie Elizabeth Enrietto
Winnetka, IL
Nursing

Sadaf Iqbal
Granger, IN
Nursing

Brooke Elizabeth Montgomery
Godley, IL
Nursing

Skye Lynn Sharp
Granger, IN
Nursing

Anna T. Squires
Mishawaka, IN
Nursing

The Degree of Master of Social Work

Riley Kathryn Eviston
Peotone, IL
Clinical Social Work

Caroline Marie Jakalski
Schererville, IN
Clinical Social Work

Arianna Thelen Myler
Rockford, MI
Clinical Social Work

Mary Alessandra Noone
Alexandria, VA
Clinical Social Work

Isabela Kae Petitgout
Barrington, IL
Clinical Social Work

The Degree of Bachelor of Arts

Monica Belen Alvarez
Elkhart, IN
Art
Cum laude

Roseanne Elizabeth Androwich
Berwyn, IL
English Literature and Creative Writing

Emegdy Avila
Mesa, AZ
Psychology

Ana Victoria Baca
Plymouth, IN
Global Studies/Spanish
Summa Cum laude

Mary Margaret Bakke
Naperville, IL
Political Science/History
Cum laude

Jaida Beasley
Houston, TX
Physics

Maria Nicole Belcastro
Park Ridge, IL
English Literature

Grace Elizabeth Bennett
Ponte Vedra, FL
Communication Studies

Jessica Bickel
South Bend, IN
Sociology/Psychology
Cum laude

Claire Elizabeth Bossert
Cincinnati, OH
Speech Language Pathology
Cum laude

Rheanna Marie Brodbeck
Decatur, IN
Sociology

Julia Therese Bub
Saint Louis, MO
Speech Language Pathology
Magna Cum laude

Mary Lois Burke
Saint John, IN
Elementary Education
Cum laude

Jayda Andrea Capellan Velez
Glenview, IL
Communication Studies
Magna Cum laude

Emma Irene Caratini
Chesterton, IN
Elementary Education
Cum laude

Adare Daily Carmody
Canton, GA
Communication Studies

Ashley Bridget Chaveriat
Tinley Park, IL
Communication Studies
Cum laude

Sarah Olivia Clark
Shelbyville, IN
Humanistic Studies
Cum laude

Kathryn Dianne Clem
Fort Wayne, IN
Religious Studies/ISDM: Arts Innovation and Leadership
Summa Cum laude
Co-Valedictorian

Clare Elizabeth Clement
East Lansing, MI
Political Science
Magna Cum laude

Katelyn Margaret Clifford
Evergreen Park, IL
Elementary Education

Julia Sophia Colleran
Westfield, NJ
Humanistic Studies
Cum laude

Norah Elizabeth Como
Ipswich, MA
Religious Studies
Cum laude

Mary Therese Connelly
Grand Beach, MI
English Literature

Sydney Conway
Granger, IN
Elementary Education

Guadalupe Delgado
Chicago, IL
Speech Language Pathology/Spanish

Lily Michele DeYoung
Belmont, MI
Elementary Education
Magna Cum laude

Kylie Raine Downey
South Bend, IN
ISDM: Health and Human Services

Margaret Elise Dunn
Glastonbury, CT
Sociology/Statistical and Actuarial Mathematics
Summa Cum laude

Mary Caroline Dutton
Fort Collins, CO
History
Summa Cum laude

Tenley Edvardsen
Schererville, IN
Music

Katherine Enright
Chicago, IL
Creative Writing/Humanistic Studies
Magna Cum laude

Valentina Espinoza-Sanchez
Indianapolis, IN
ISDM: Performance and Social Behavior

Mary Therese Fean
Fort Wayne, IN
Elementary Education
Magna Cum laude

Chelsea Jeanne Fox
Shakopee, MN
ISDM: Entrepreneur

Lillian Rose Frey
Grand Rapids, MI
Speech Language Pathology
Magna Cum laude

Paige Lorainne Fuelling
Granger, IN
Economics
Summa Cum laude

Cassandra Galvan
South Bend, IN
Psychology
Cum laude

Habigail Lucia Garçon
Breinigsville, PA
Elementary Education
Cum laude

Olivia Gleason
Plainfield, IL
Psychology

Téa Audreanne Halamka
Watervliet, MI
Psychology

Elle Olivia Haney
Linden, MI
Communication Studies
Summa Cum laude

Margaret Mary Hansen
Palos Heights, IL
ISDM: Health and Human Services

Abigail Lee Harnisch
Oakton, VA
Elementary Education
Summa Cum laude

Katherine Harrington
Granger, IN
Elementary Education

Theresa Anne Hayes
Dallas, TX
Religious Studies/Communication Studies
Cum laude

Emma Heller
Park Ridge, IL
Elementary Education
Summa Cum laude

Ashley Helwig
Oak Forest, IL
Elementary Education

Makayla Lynn Hernandez
DeMotte, IN
ISDM: Horticultural Psychology

Maria F. Hernandez
Houston, TX
Sociology

Danielle Kalena Hongell
Fairfield, OH
Psychology

Elle Maxine Houin
Plymouth, IN
Speech Language Pathology
Magna Cum laude

Brigid Maria Hull
Mundelein, IL
English Literature/Humanistic Studies
Summa Cum laude

Joanna Maria James
Orland Park, IL
Psychology
Magna Cum laude

Sarah Elizabeth Jannings
Benton Harbor, MI
Communication Studies/Environmental Studies
Summa Cum laude

Leilani Alissa Jeffery
Redlands, CA
Psychology
Magna Cum laude

Mia Philomena Jenke
Broadview, IL
Communication Studies

Sophia Harper Johnson
Dayton, OH
History/Sociology
Summa Cum laude

Anaís Yasmine Juliano
Chesterton, IN
Economics/Spanish

Alexis Jurkowski
New Carlisle, IN
Psychology

Fiona Kathryn Kalsch
Arlington Heights, IL
Communication Studies
Cum laude

Abigail Anne Kawalec
Hammond, IN
Environmental Studies
Summa Cum laude

Samantha Parker Kazmierczak
Valparaiso, IN
Psychology

Michaela Noelle Key
Howell, NJ
Psychology

Adrianna Colette Koehler
Fort Wayne, IN
Political Science

Grace Elizabeth Leber
Westfield, IN
English Literature/Humanistic Studies/Philosophy
Summa Cum laude

Rebecca Renee Leith
Beaver, PA
Psychology
Cum laude

Jane Charlotte Linehan
Bay Village, OH
Speech Language Pathology
Cum laude

Isabell Mary Linus
Washington Crossing, PA
Environmental Studies

Marie Jane Lunne
Dayton, OH
Communication Studies
Magna Cum laude

Kaylen Joy Maat
Hudsonville, MI
Statistical and Actuarial Mathematics
Summa Cum laude

Kaitlyn Patricia Magoonaugh
Ottawa, IL
Gender and Women's Studies/Sociology
Magna Cum laude

Julia Maria Mammolenti
South Bend, IN
Psychology

Devyn Frances Mangin
Frankfort, IL
Psychology

Allison Kaleigh Martin
Chesapeake, VA
Psychology

Abigayle Elizabeth Martinez
Elkhart, IN
Creative Writing
Cum laude

Meghan Katherine Martinez
Middletown, OH
Sociology

Amanda Nicole Massa
Saint John, IN
English Literature and Creative Writing
Cum laude

Sydney Gabrielle May
Grand Rapids, MI
Psychology/Communication Studies
Summa Cum laude

Jenna Rose Mayden
Crown Point, IN
Elementary Education
Summa Cum laude

Phoenix McClellan
Fishers, IN
Gender and Women's Studies/History
Magna Cum laude

Grace Alanna McEvoy
Clinton, OH
Statistical and Actuarial Mathematics

Hannah McGillian
Philadelphia, PA
Psychology

Morgan Rose McGuire
Orland Park, IL
Speech Language Pathology
Summa Cum laude

Mary Catherine McKenna
Morristown, NJ
Psychology

Ruby Meza
East Chicago, IN
Speech Language Pathology/Spanish
Summa Cum laude

Jaylah Eyrie Mickle
Burr Ridge, IL
Psychology

Isabel Grace Migan
East Lansing, MI
Political Science
Summa Cum laude

Madison Nicole Minick
New Haven, IN
Elementary Education
Magna Cum laude

Molly Katherine Champney Minick
Juneau, AK
Political Science
Summa Cum laude
Co-Valedictorian

Morgan Alexis Montgomery
Godley, IL
Psychology

Sofia A. Monzon
West Chicago, IL
Political Science

Thalia Marie Mora
Nappanee, IN
Political Science/Economics
Summa Cum laude

Hannah Elizabeth Mortensen
Cadillac, MI
Elementary Education

Clare Nicole Mula
Kokomo, IN
Environmental Studies
Summa Cum laude

Kathleen Theresa Mundy
Mooresville, NC
Communication Studies

Delaney Olivia Nold
Mount Prospect, IL
Speech Language Pathology
Cum laude

Chloe Blair Nosal
Fort Worth, TX
Communication Studies

Emily Joline Nye
Fennville, MI
Environmental Studies

Fiona Lyn O’Byrne
Grosse Pointe, MI
History/Philosophy

Jeanett Ochoa Olivas
Calexico, CA
Political Science
Cum laude

Grace Marie O’Dell
Plymouth, MI
Economics

Piper Alyson Ogden
Reynoldsburg, OH
Elementary Education
Summa Cum laude
Co-Valedictorian

Taylor A. Palmer
Dowagiac, MI
Political Science

Chloe Rain Papaevangelou
North Judson, IN
ISDM: Integrated Social Media Marketing Communication

Vincenza Filomena Paradiso
Columbus, OH
Art
Magna Cum laude

Hannah Park
Granger, IN
Secondary Education
Magna Cum laude

Shaina Parks
Milford, MI
Creative Writing

Sarai Perez
Yuma, AZ
Sociology

Giana Markie Perns
Chicago, IL
Psychology
Cum laude

Molly Marie Perns
Mokena, IL
Communication Studies

Hannah Kathleen Phillips
Berlin Heights, OH
Art
Magna Cum laude

Elyssa Grace Pickett-Klimek
Lockport, IL
Speech Language Pathology
Summa Cum laude

Magdalena Pujals
Roswell, GA
Economics

Annalyn Pupke
Malverne, NY
Speech Language Pathology

Moira Renee Quinn
La Grange Park, IL
Communication Studies

Tiffany Ragsdale
Granger, IN
Elementary Education

Kayli Revett
Traverse City, MI
Psychology
Magna Cum laude

Catherine Reynoso
Bremen, IN
Speech Language Pathology
Summa Cum laude

Addison Jean Rivera
Tinley Park, IL
Speech Language Pathology/Psychology

Elizabeth A. Rogers
Peru, IN
Economics/Humanistic Studies
Magna Cum laude

Valentina A. Rubio
Wayland, MI
Psychology

Alexandrea Nicole Sanders
La Porte, IN
Creative Writing/History
Summa Cum laude

Brittney Madison Sanders
La Porte, IN
Creative Writing/History
Summa Cum laude

Leann Nicole Saul
Kokomo, IN
Sociology
Summa Cum laude

Kathleen Scheidler
Granger, IN
Speech Language Pathology
Cum laude

Madison Marie Sexton
New Buffalo, MI
Political Science/Spanish

Taylor Sharpe
Mishawaka, IN
Art

Leeanna Marie Silkworth
Battle Creek, MI
Psychology/Sociology/Humanistic Studies
Magna Cum laude

Julie A. Sims
Castaic, CA
English Literature and Creative Writing
Summa Cum laude

Katelyn Grace Sizemore
Michigan City, IN
Speech Language Pathology/Gender and Women's Studies
Summa Cum laude

Haley Elise Smith
Valparaiso, IN
Elementary Education

Morgan Isabella Springer
South Bend, IN
Elementary Education

Elizabeth Grace Stone
Winona Lake, IN
Philosophy/Psychology
Cum laude

Sierra Stone
Brentwood, CA
Sociology

Fionnuala Mary Sullivan
West Hartford, CT
Communication Studies
Cum laude

Marie Elizabeth Swain
South Bend, IN
Speech Language Pathology

Eleanor Marie Sweeney
Homer, AK
Psychology
Magna Cum laude

Mariana Taskey
Kokomo, IN
ISDM: Film
Magna Cum laude

Shay Rebecca Theile
Grand Rapids, MI
Communication Studies
Summa Cum laude

Katherine Clare Theriault
Perrysburg, OH
Speech Language Pathology
Magna Cum laude

Mary Elise Udani
Schererville, IN
English Literature and Creative Writing/Psychology

Sarah Elizabeth Vicari
Hobart, IN
Art

Shamira Araceli Villaverde Manzur
Charlotte, NC
Psychology/Spanish

Sarah Wardlow
Orland Park, IL
Mathematics/Secondary Education
Cum laude

Evelyn Weaver
Mishawaka, IN
Philosophy
Magna Cum laude

Hallie Marie Weaver
Davenport, IA
Speech Language Pathology
Summa Cum laude

Mairi Muir Macomber Weber-Hess
South Bend, IN
History

Chloe Westrate
Chicago, IL
Philosophy
Summa Cum laude

Breanna Wettergren
Westville, IN
History/Creative Writing

Catherine Mary-Grace Whittier
Elburn, IL
English Literature and Creative Writing
Cum laude

Hollie Tranae Williams
Chicago, IL
Psychology
Cum laude

Angelina Monjaes-Loryn Wright
Covington, LA
Political Science/Philosophy

Addison Nicole Wurster
Saint Joseph, MI
Art/Communication Studies

Elizabeth Jean Louise Wyatt
Mishawaka, IN
Sociology/Neuroscience
Cum laude

Evangelina Mae Yarber
Shelbyville, IN
English Literature/Humanistic Studies
Magna Cum laude

Emma Zmudzinski
Granger, IN
Art

The Degree of Bachelor of Business Administration

Anne Carolyn Adams
Libertyville, IL
Business Administration/Economics
Summa Cum laude

Cali Jordan Allen
Berrien Springs, MI
Business Administration
Magna Cum laude

Claire Bettag
Saint Charles, IL
Business Administration

Brooke Elizabeth Bierovic
Tinley Park, IL
Accounting
Cum laude

Lindsey Chaveriat
Tinley Park, IL
Marketing
Cum laude

Itavi Cruz-Hernandez
Niles, MI
Accounting

Shelby Lynn Dellasandro
Cranston, RI
Marketing

Catherine Suzanne Doherty
Olmsted Falls, OH
Marketing
Cum laude

Karina Duenas
Dallas, TX
Business Administration

Breanna Eafon
Dallas, TX
Business Administration

Isabella Marie Viola Fischer
Medina, OH
Business Administration/Economics
Summa Cum laude

Maureen Catherine Galvin
Lake Orion, MI
Marketing
Magna Cum laude

Laura Elizabeth Golubski
Niles, MI
Marketing

Paige Karena Hahn
Ada, MI
Accounting/Spanish
Magna Cum laude

Aubrey Anne Hoff
Orland Park, IL
Marketing
Cum laude

Megan Houlihan
Orland Park, IL
Marketing
Magna Cum laude

Abigail Elizabeth Houttekier
Elkhart, IN
Accounting

Sian Arielle Lis
McKinney, TX
Business Administration
Cum laude

Paige Lyons
Hinsdale, IL
Business Administration

Lauren Marie McIntyre
Troy, MI
Business Administration/Spanish
Summa Cum laude

Kathrine Lucille Meier
Greenwood, IN
Accounting
Cum laude

Kacie Louise Mohan
Elkhart, IN
Accounting
Summa Cum laude

Diana Moreno
Phoenix, AZ
Business Administration

Jennifer Neff
South Bend, IN
Accounting
Cum laude

Yoselin Susana Ochoa Zelaya
Elkhart, IN
Business Administration
Cum laude

Elizabeth Pahl
Fenton, MI
Business Administration
Cum laude

Jada June Pham
Grand Rapids, MI
Marketing
Summa Cum laude

Jocelyn Marie Porter
West Linn, OR
Business Administration/Environmental Studies
Magna Cum laude

Mari Elizabeth Pritulsky
Kure Beach, NC
Business Administration

Alexis Marie Rauch
Cassopolis, MI
Accounting
Cum laude

Cadyn Reger
Fenton, MI
Marketing
Magna Cum laude

Sheridan Kate Riva
Lancaster, PA
Marketing
Magna Cum laude

Shannon Mary Russell
Grand Rapids, MI
Accounting
Magna Cum laude

Sydney Skarbek
Niles, MI
Business Administration
Cum laude

Delaney Lee Spearing
Frankfort, IL
Accounting
Magna Cum laude

Andrea Vera Liévano
Mexico City, Mexico
Marketing/Global Studies
Magna Cum laude

Bridget Susan Walicki
Jackson, MI
Accounting
Summa Cum laude
Co-Valedictorian

Margaret Maureen Walsh
Grand Haven, MI
Accounting
Magna Cum laude

Hannah Josephine Weese
Charleston, WV
Business Administration

Molly Witkop
Massena, NY
Business Administration
Magna Cum laude

The Degree of Bachelor of Fine Arts

Christiana Sarah Singler
Louisville, KY

The Degree of Bachelor of Music

Emilia Watson
Columbia, TN
Music Education

Julia Zusi
South Bend, IN
Music Education
Summa Cum laude

The Degree of Bachelor of Science

Maria Jose Alas Diaz
Tampa, FL
Neuroscience

Emily Eileen Andrina
Cassopolis, MI
Biology
Magna Cum laude

Emegdy Avila
Mesa, AZ
Biology

Grace Barresi
South Elgin, IL
Biology

Susanna Joan Bernovich
South Milwaukee, WI
Neuroscience
Cum laude

Catherine Elizabeth Blum
Elmhurst, IL
Computing and Applied Mathematics

Cody Nicole Brown
Gloucester, VA
Physics and Applied Mathematics
Summa Cum laude

Julia Therese Bub
Saint Louis, MO
Chemistry
Magna Cum laude

Addisyn Brilynn Camadeca
Valparaiso, IN
Chemistry

Sarah Elizabeth Cimoch
South Bend, IN
Neuroscience

Olivia Grace Coyne
Plainfield, IL
Biology
Cum laude

Kathryn Chau Cruz
Northbrook, IL
Computing and Applied Mathematics
Cum laude

Megan Kay Dieckmann
Mishawaka, IN
Chemistry
Cum laude

Grace Christina Dillon
Indianapolis, IN
Mathematics
Cum laude

Bridget Mary Donovan
Grand Rapids, MI
Chemistry

Sarah Elizabeth Fitzgerald
Shelbyville, IN
Computing and Applied Mathematics

Nora A. Foley
Elmhurst, IL
Chemistry

Isabella Rose Gaborek
Johnstown, PA
Biology
Magna Cum laude

Angelina Grohovsky
Powell, OH
Biology
Magna Cum laude

Lauren Mariam Gumma
Troy, MI
Biology
Cum laude

Isabela Grace Guthrie Beckstrom
Houston, TX
Statistical and Actuarial Mathematics
Summa Cum laude

Cora Haddad
Holt, MI
Computing and Applied Mathematics

Abigail Elizabeth Hanson
Atlanta, GA
Biology

Kieran Sleight Hay
Hingham, MA
Physics

Miah Hudson
Rome City, IN
Mathematics

Kathleen Therese Hurley
Parker, CO
Computing and Applied Mathematics

Madeline Elaine James
Granger, IN
Biology
Cum laude

Grace DonnaDee Johnston
Corpus Christi, TX
Biology
Cum laude

Georgette Ann Kersman
North Muskegon, MI
Neuroscience
Magna Cum laude

Ellen Michaela Kevin
Chicago, IL
Statistical and Actuarial Mathematics
Magna Cum laude

Olivia Rose Lampani
Grand Rapids, MI
Biology
Cum laude

Teagan Bay Mattox
Angola, IN
Biology
Magna Cum laude

Alexis Rose Miller
Plymouth, MI
Chemistry

Natalie Grace Moore
Goshen, IN
Computing and Applied Mathematics
Magna Cum laude

Monique Morse
Goodrich, MI
Physics

Elizabeth Nelson
St. Joseph, MI
Neuroscience

Ashleigh Marie Niemczyk
O'Fallon, MO
Mathematics

Kayra Aisyah Nugroho
South Bend, IN
Computing and Applied Mathematics

Anna Orendain
Houston, TX
Chemistry

Erin Alanna O'Rourke
Tucson, AZ
Biology

Samantha Rose Pajak
Battle Creek, MI
Biology

Elizabeth S. Parker
Hastings, MI
Chemistry

Zoe A. Pfenning
Ligonier, IN
Biology

Grace Elizabeth Renschen
Saint John, IN
Neuroscience
Magna Cum laude

Madeline Rose Reynolds
Evergreen Park, IL
Biology
Cum laude

Aria Richards
Watervliet, MI
Chemistry

Sydney Marie Sanders
Granger, IN
Mathematics

Brooke Anne Schroeder
Findlay, OH
Neuroscience

Julia Christine Schutz
Dyer, IN
Chemistry
Summa Cum laude

Anna Marie Schwegel
Peoria, IL
Biology

Judith Guadalupe Sital
Fort Worth, TX
Chemistry

Mary Katherine Smith
Angola, IN
Chemistry
Magna Cum laude

Kara J. Stacey
Grand Rapids, MI
Biology
Magna Cum laude

Kennedy Nicole Szabo
Granger, IN
Biology

Eduarda Tartarella Nascimento
São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
Biology
Summa Cum laude

Abigail Rose Tietema
Grand Rapids, MI
Biology

Katelyn Kristine Tokarz
Northville, MI
Mathematics
Magna Cum laude

Katherine Alexandria Valdez
Fort Wayne, IN
Biology

Raegan Jean Van Duyne
Wilmington, IL
Biology

Lucy Charlotte Wasserman
Northbrook, IL
Biology
Magna Cum laude

Meghan Ellise Westman
Belmont, MI
Biology
Magna Cum laude

Olivia Lauren Wright
Spring Lake, MI
Biology
Cum laude

The Degree of Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Ciera Abner
Granger, IN
Nursing
Cum laude

Lydia Marguerite Alexander
Dayton, OH
Nursing
Cum laude

Riley A. Lindsey Bardol
Valparaiso, IN
Nursing

Lucy Elizabeth Brown
Louisville, KY
Nursing
Summa Cum laude

Megan Jennifer Brown
Battle Creek, MI
Nursing
Cum laude

Alayna Marie Campbell
Granger, IN
Nursing
Magna Cum laude

Andrea Grace Cannaday
Indianapolis, IN
Nursing
Cum laude

Sincere Arie Cannon
Gary, IN
Nursing
Magna Cum laude

Vanessa Celis
Elkhart, IN
Nursing
Magna Cum laude

Karina Nikole Cenkush
Osceola, IN
Nursing

Meghan Anne Chase
Chicago, IL
Nursing

Eileen Barbara Coyle
Evergreen Park, IL
Nursing

Fionnuala Ann Elisabeth Criswell-Carder
Columbus, OH
Nursing

Anna Grace Ebert
Fenton, MI
Nursing
Magna Cum laude

Erin Grace Fitzgerald
Chicago, IL
Nursing
Cum laude

Magdalen Grace France
Wabash, IN
Nursing

Ava Gante
Stuttgart, Germany
Nursing

Isabella Lena Gardini
South Bend, IN
Nursing

Caroline Patricia Gault
Verona, NJ
Nursing

Brooke Erin Geary
Mokena, IL
Nursing
Summa Cum laude

Nathaly Gonzalez
Mishawaka, IN
Nursing
Cum laude

Kaitlyn Gornik
Indianapolis, IN
Nursing
Cum laude

Emily Katherine Herman
Chicago, IL
Nursing
Cum laude

Briana Eileen Houpt
Portage, IN
Nursing
Summa Cum laude

Amy Elizabeth Johnson
Orland Park, IL
Nursing

Mary Grace Kaczynski
South Bend, IN
Nursing
Magna Cum laude

Molly Morgan Kearns
Los Angeles, CA
Nursing

Kaitlyn Grace King
Naperville, IL
Nursing
Cum laude

Fiona Claire Lanahan
Pittsford, NY
Nursing

Margaret Mary Lawler
Lemont, IL
Nursing

Francesca Davina Lio
Lemont, IL
Nursing

Kathryn Alise Lukas
Old Saybrook, CT
Nursing

Morgan Kathryn Mahaney
Grand Rapids, MI
Nursing
Magna Cum laude

McKenzie Lee McDaniel
Portage, MI
Nursing

Lydia Love Mencl
Lawton, MI
Nursing
Magna Cum laude

Alivia Marie Monaco
Monroe, CT
Nursing

Elena Renee Orians
Mishawaka, IN
Nursing
Magna Cum laude

Victoria Lynn Parent
Fort Wayne, IN
Nursing

Marissa Nicole Schneider
Dyer, IN
Nursing

Emma Nicole Schroeder
Osceola, IN
Nursing

Ava Lilly Schuldt
New Lenox, IL
Nursing
Summa Cum laude

Abigail Rose Seaton
Springfield, IL
Nursing

Allison Marie Shears
Valparaiso, IN
Nursing
Magna Cum laude

Katelyn Shelby
Bristol, IN
Nursing

Catherine Rita Speybroeck
South Bend, IN
Nursing

Carolyn Rose Steigmeyer
Fort Wayne, IN
Nursing
Magna Cum laude

Ellie Grace Stumpf
Greenwood, IN
Nursing
Cum laude

Anna Topping
Niles, MI
Nursing

Monica Joan Ugo
Indianapolis, IN
Nursing
Cum laude

Anna Maria Vasta
South Bend, IN
Nursing

Emma Cate Welstead
Marietta, GA
Nursing

The Degree of Bachelor of Social Work

Courtney Anne Bean
South Bend, IN
Social Work

Hailey Marie Casares
Morocco, IN
Social Work

Aaren Hope Chavez Fernandez
Clovis, CA
Social Work

Sydney Kay Madden
Geneva, IL
Social Work
Magna Cum laude

Jenna Christine Neeley
Lowell, IN
Social Work

Eliana Mae Oviedo
South Bend, IN
Social Work
Magna Cum laude

Jasmyne Jalyell Townsend
Hudsonville, MI
Social Work

Honors

Department Awards

Art

Saint Luke’s Medal – Monica Alvarez and Vincenza “Vinni” Paradiso
Sister Edna Service Award – Hannah Phillips

Biology

Mother M. Rose Elizabeth, CSC Award – Emegdy Avila and Grace Johnston
Sister M. Rosaleen Dunleavy, CSC Award – Kara Stacey and Eduarda Tartarella Nascimento

Business Administration and Economics

Frank A. Yeandel Service Award – Cadyn Reger
Jerome L. McElroy Outstanding Achievement Award – Kacie Mohan
Academic Achievement Award – Bridget Walicki
Achievement Award (Accounting) – Bridget Walicki
Achievement Award (Economics) – Anne Adams
Achievement Award (Finance) – Isabella Fischer
Achievement Award (Management) – Lauren McIntyre
Achievement Award (Management Information Systems) – Molly Witkop
Academic Achievement Award (Marketing) – Sheridan Riva

Chemistry and Physics

Mother M. Rose Elizabeth, CSC Award – Megan Dieckmann and Mary “Katie” Smith
American Institute of Chemists Award – Julia Schutz
Richard Tarara Academic Excellence in Physics Award – Monique Morse
The F.Lee Benton Exceptional Service and Research in Physics Award – Monique Morse

Communication Studies, Dance, and Theatre

Ann Plamondon Award for Excellence in Communication Studies – Elle Haney and Sarah Jannings
Communication Studies Service Award – Jayda Capellan
Terpsichorean Award for Excellence in Dance – Jayda Capellan

Education

Mary A. McDermott Award – Jenna Mayden and Madison Minick
Grace Sullivan McGuire Secondary Education Award - Julia Zusi
IACTE Outstanding Future Educators Award – Sarah Fairbank, Mary Fean, Abigail Harnisch and Sarah Wardlow
Schmuhl Early Childhood Education Award – Abigail “Abbie” Harnisch

English

Elisabeth A. Noel Literature Prize – Grace Leber
The Laura Haigwood Literary Citizenship Prize – Julie Sims and Catherine Whittier
The Laurie A. Lesniewski Creative Writing Award – Julie Sims

Environmental Studies

Environmental Studies Award – Abigail “Abbie” Kawalec and Clare Mula

Gender and Women’s Studies

Mary Frances Eder Halpin Award in Gender and Women’s Studies – Phoenix McClellan

Global Studies

Outstanding Achievement in Global Studies – Ana Baca

History

Martha Montgomery Schurz Memorial Award for Excellence in History – Sophia Johnson
Martha Montgomery Schurz Memorial Award for Excellence in the Senior Seminar Research Paper – Mary “Caroline” Dutton
Martha Montgomery Schurz Memorial Award for Excellence in Writing in the Women’s History Program – Phoenix McClellan

Humanistic Studies

Thomas More Award – Grace Leber

Mathematics

Milko Jeglic Award – Isabela Guthrie Beckstrom
Donald E. Miller Award – Katelyn Tokarz

Modern Languages

Leonilda Francesca Acerra and Dominico Enrico Christofaro Award in Italian – Alivia Monaco
Anne Cashore Borjas Award in Spanish – Ana Baca and Ruby Meza
The Bayhouse-Marcy Award in French – Mairi Weber-Hess and Chloe Westrate

Music

Emma Krost Eder Award for Musical Excellence – Julia Zusi

Nursing Science

Evelyn McGuiness Award for Excellence in Nursing – Sincere Cannon
Humanitarian in Nursing Award – Magdalen France
Sister Maureen Grady, CSC, Spirit of Nursing Award (MSN) – Brooke Montgomery
MSN Award for Academic Excellence – Annie Enrietto
DNP Daisy Award – Mary Auber
Outstanding DNP Practice Innovation Project Award – Leigh Flegge-Schlie

Philosophy

Award for Excellence in Philosophical Writing – Chloe Westrate

Political Science

Juliette Noone Lester Award – Thalia Mora

Psychology

Animating Spirit Award – Leeanna Silkworth and Eleanor Sweeney
Joseph Miller Outstanding Scholarship Award – Emegdy Avila, Joanna James, Sydney May and Kayli Revett

Religious Studies

Helen M. Carroll Award – Kathryn “Katie” Clem

Social Work and Gerontology

Academic Excellence Award – Eliana Oviedo
Leadership Award – Hailey Casares and Sydney Madden
Josephine Murphy Kuhl Research Award – Aaren Fernandez
Kristi A. Morris Award – Jenna Neeley
Gerontology Award – Caroline Gault
Gerontology Leadership Award – Sydney Madden
Gerontology Academic Award – Katherine Theriault
MSW Outstanding Student Leadership Award – Arianna Myler

Sociology

Donald N.M. Horning Award – Leann Saul
Sociology Award – Margaret “Maggie” Dunn

Speech Language Pathology

Ancora Imparo Award – Katelyn Sizemore
Carolyn S. Langley Award (Graduate Program) – Sarah Hagen

College Awards

Mary Ellen Smith Academic and
Athletic Achievement Award
Katelyn Tokarz

Saint Mary’s College Alumnae Association
2025 Outstanding Senior Award
Sincere Cannon

Kappa Gamma Pi

National Catholic College Graduate Honor Society

Monica Alvarez
Lucy Brown
Andrea Cannaday
Sincere Cannon
Jayda Capellan
Kathryn Clem
Lillian Frey
Nathaly Gonzalez
Kaitlyn Gornik
Angelina Grohovsky
Theresa Hayes
Emily Herman
Sarah Jannings
Georgette Kersman
Kaitlyn King
Kaitlyn Magoonaugh
Morgan McGuire
Jeanett Ochoa
Piper Ogden
Elena Orians
Elizabeth Pahl
Jocelyn Porter
Grace Renschen
Madeline Reynolds
Leann Saul
Allison Shears
Katelyn Sizemore
Kara Stacey
Eduarda Tartarella
Nascimento Andrea
Vera Liévano
Lucy Wasserman
Hallie Weaver
Meghan Westman
Chloe Westrate

Formal Academic Regalia

The formal academic regalia worn by today’s graduates and faculty have their origin in the clerical costumes of medieval Europe and have evolved into a great variety of patterns and styles. Late in the last century, American colleges and universities agreed to standardize their regalia; however, there is now a movement to return to individual designs for each institution.

The gown worn by those holding or receiving the bachelor’s degree is plain black with pointed sleeves. The master’s gown is characterized by a uniquely long, closed sleeve with a slit at the elbow, through which the arm protruded; this peculiarity is now being replaced by a sleeve more like that of a bachelor’s. The doctoral gown has very full bell sleeves and is trimmed with velvet panels down the front and stripes across the sleeves.

The familiar mortarboard cap bears only a faint resemblance to its close relative, the clerical biretta. Some institutions now specify that a soft cap somewhat like a tam o’shanter is worn. The cap worn by those with a bachelor’s degree is decorated with a black tassel or a color indicative of the area of study. Those earning a master’s degree wear black tassels. Those earning a doctorate wear either black or metallic gold.

Most symbolic and informative of the regalia is the hood, which is no longer raised over the head but is hung down the back just as a cleric wore it when baring the head in church. The bachelor’s hood is three feet long, the master’s is three-and-one-half feet, and the doctoral’s is four feet long with a rectangular panel which once served as a shoulder cape when the hood was raised. All of the hoods have a velvet border in the color of the degree according to the same system used for the trim of the doctoral gown (see below).

Degree colors (tassels and hood trim)

*Arts and Humanities White
*Science Golden Yellow
*Fine Arts Brown
*Music Pink
*Business Drab (Light Brown)
*Social Work Citron
*Nursing Apricot
Philosophy Dark Blue
Education Light Blue
Theology Scarlet
Library Science Lemon
Engineering Orange
Law Purple

*Saint Mary’s College degrees

Other colors may be found on faculty hoods, although most hold a Ph.D. or doctorate of philosophy, so their hoods will have dark blue trim.

The colors and patterns of the satin lining of the hood identify the college or university conferring the degree; most prominent in the procession today is the light blue background and white chevron of Saint Mary’s College.

Richard C. Pilger Jr.
Marshal Emeritus

Sister Madeleva’s Walking Stick

The walking stick of Sister Madeleva Wolff, CSC serves as a reminder of the College’s founders and sponsors, the Congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Cross. As one of the College’s longest serving presidents, Sister Madeleva guided Saint Mary’s to its status as the country’s premiere Catholic liberal arts college for women, and it is appropriate that an artifact from her life serves as a link to the College’s history.

Sister Madeleva associated walking sticks with the pilgrim’s staff used to traverse the Camino de Santiago in Spain. So this walking stick also serves as a symbol of both the path our students will tread as they leave the College as pilgrims in life and the support they will need on the way.

Each new president chooses which, of the many walking sticks that Sister Madeleva collected over her life, is to be used during that president’s tenure. The selected symbol leads the processions at academic ceremonies, much as a ceremonial mace does at other colleges. The stick used in the procession today is a brightly colored cane attributed to southern Mexico. It contains a series of carvings and paintings celebrating some of the cultures that melded over the years to create today’s Mexico, including Aztec and Spanish images.

Board of Trustees

Maureen Karnatz Smith ’85
Chair, Board of Trustees

Lorraine Sheehan Wilson ’85
Vice Chair

Colleen Flynn Roohan ’85
Secretary

Mary McEnery Harding ’84
Treasurer

Katie Conboy
Sister Veronica A. Fajardo, CSC
Sister Vanessa Cruz Ferreira, CSC
Donald R. Fischer
Jessica Brinker Foster ’08
Gregoire Gallant
Sister Taposi Gomes, CSC
Sister Judith Hallock, CSC ’65
Anaís Y. Juliano ’25
Fr. Stephen Katsouros, SJ
Reverend Paul V. Kollman, CSC
Susan Olney Latham ’91
Jacqueline Leskovec ’74
Michael J. Mathile
Theresa Sullivan Norton ’92
Tina M. Patton
Jennifer Mathile Prikkel ’95
Linda Schultz Salvi ’79
William J. Schmuhl Jr.*
Amy C. Shelly ’91
Christine Ashford Swanson
Jill Tiefenthaler ’87
Kimberlyn Martin Troy ’00
Kathleen Murphy Villano ’79
Sister Sharlet Ann Wagner, CSC
Sister Veronique Wiedower, CSC ’70

*Trustee Emeritus

Officers of the College

Katie Conboy, Ph.D.
President

Peter Christensen
Vice President for Strategy and Finance

Redgina Hill, Ph.D.
Vice President for Inclusion and Equity

Holly C. Johnson
Vice President for Advancement

Lori E. Johnson ’91
Vice President for Student Enrollment and Engagement

Megan Zwart, Ph.D.
Interim Provost and Vice President

Commencement Committee

Michelle Poeppe Egan ’93
Chair

Christopher Dunlap, Ph.D.
Marshal

James “Phil” Bambenek
Phillip Batalis
Dawn Bell
Benjamin Bowman
Kathleen Carlson
Amelia Carpenter
Erin Connelly
Susan Good
Susan Kletka
Lisa Knox
Mark Kubacki
Nicole Labadie
Grace Maher ’21
Thalia Mora ’25
Dan Patterson
Lisa Reed Peppers ’87
Adriana Petty ’01
Marc Poklinkowski
Sarah Pressey ’08
Melissa Rodriguez
H. Shay Jolly Schneider ’05
Jesse Vogel
Christine Weiler ’06
Juls White
Tracy P. White
Eli Williams

Speakers and Honorees Speakers and Honorees
Our 2025 Valedictorians Our 2025 Valedictorians
Class of 2025 Class of 2025
Visitor Information Visitor Information

Saint Mary's College Notre Dame IN Graduation 2025

Congratulations to the Class of 2025!

I love the friends and memories that Saint Mary’s gifted me. I know I have made friends for life. Maria Jose Alas ’25 Neuroscience
What I love most about Saint Mary’s is that it gave me the opportunity to pursue both my education and my passion for volleyball. I was able to compete in the sport I love while being supported academically, which made my experience here truly fulfilling. Cali Allen ’25 Business Administration
Next up for me, I will be attending Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine to pursue my dream of becoming a physician!! Emily Eileen Andrina ’25 Biology
Saint Mary’s had guided me to find my true friends and true career calling. It’s shaped me into a strong woman and person. Courtney Bean ’25 Social Work
"The people make the place." This common saying truly reflects my experience at Saint Mary’s. One of the best parts of attending a smaller school is the close-knit community it fosters. The relationships I’ve built here with friends and professors are ones I know will last long after I leave campus. I’m forever proud to be part of the Saint Mary’s community. Near or far, we always look out for one another. Go Belles! Liz Blum ’25 Computing & Applied Mathematics
When the solar eclipse passed over South Bend, the school hosted a party on the Le Mans Green. We all sprawled out in the grass on beach towels, enjoying music and nachos. When I think of SMC, I think of moments like this—when all of us come together and embrace the sisterhood. Lucy Elizabeth Brown ’25 Nursing
After graduation, I’ll be moving to Rochester, MN to work as a general surgery nurse at Mayo Clinic. Megan Brown ’25 Nursing
My favorite memory about Saint Mary's was passing my Chemistry senior comp, then celebrating with all of my favorite people at SMICK formal! Julia Therese Bub ’25 Chemistry, Speech Language Pathology
After graduating with my nursing degree, I will be a NICU nurse at Beacon Children’s Hospital. Alayna Campbell ’25 Nursing
After graduation, I will be an oncology nurse at Community Health Network’s Cancer Center South. Andrea Grace Cannaday ’25 Nursing
I have taken a job as an operating room nurse! Karina Cenkush ’25 Nursing
What I love—and will miss—the most about Saint Mary’s College are my fellow Belles. You all have truly led our class and college in incredible ways; you should be proud of your intelligence, talents, and character. Thank you the past four years. There is no doubt the Class of 2025 will go far! Ashley Chaveriat ’25 Communication Studies
My favorite memory at Saint Mary's was Junior Mom’s Weekend! Clare Elizabeth Clement ’25 Political Science
My favorite memory was studying abroad in Rome and getting to see the Pope on Easter Sunday! Mae Connelly ’25 English Literature
What I love most about Saint Mary’s are the traditions. Late Night Breakfast, Blinkie rides, Smick class rings…it’s the little things we do that made my time here feel so special. I am lucky to have called this place home for the past four years. Belle yeah!! Olivia Coyne ’25 Biology
Cherish every moment. You will wish you had more time here. Lily DeYoung ’25 Elementary Education
This summer, after leaving Saint Mary's, I will be working for Goodyear as a quality engineering intern. Then in the fall I will be finishing up my chemical engineering degree at Notre Dame! Bridget Donovan ’25 Chemistry
After Saint Mary's, I will be heading to Pittsburgh to work at PNC Bank doing their Data Analytics Development Rotational program! Breanna Eafon ’25 Business Administration
I will be teaching Kindergarten at Levan Scott Academy in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Mary Fean ’25 Elementary Education
After graduation, I plan to attend the University of Pennsylvania for my Master's of Social Work. Aaren Fernandez ’25 Social Work
What I love most about Saint Mary's are the connections and people you meet. Sarah Fitzgerald ’25 Computing & Applied Mathematics
I love being surrounded by strong, independent women who all support one another <3 Magdalen France ’25 Nursing
After Commencement, I will be staying at Saint Mary’s to earn my Masters in Speech-Language Pathology. Lillian Frey ’25 Speech Language Pathology
My future plans are to get my masters in clinical social work here at Saint Mary's College and I'm so excited to continue my journey here! My goal is to become a clinical social worker who works with clients who struggle with their mental health. Mental health is very important to me and I hope to make a difference in the lives of people, especially children and young adults who have mental illness, and show them that they are strong and can overcome their obstacles! Cassandra Galvan ’25 Psychology
I love the history behind this amazing school and how we now carry on so many legacies and all the traditions, as well as the sense of belonging you get from the close-knit community. Ava Christine Gante ’25 Nursing
After graduation, I will be attending Teacher’s College, Columbia University for an M.A. in Intellectual Disabilities and Autism. Habigail Lucia Garçon ’25 Elementary Education
I love the community! Saint Mary's has brought the best people into my life! Brooke Geary ’25 Nursing
Cherish the little moments. Four years goes by faster than you think. Olivia Gleason ’25 Psychology
When I leave Saint Mary's, I will work as a Registered Nurse (RN) in the Family Birthplace Unit at Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center! Nathaly Gonzalez ’25 Nursing
I will be applying for medical school this summer following graduation. During my gap year, I will be volunteering within my hometown community and doing research at the University of Michigan’s medical school. Lauren Mariam Gumma ’25 Biology
I will be attending the University of Notre Dame – Mendoza College of Business to pursue a Master’s of Science of Accountancy. Paige Hahn ’25 Accounting, Spanish
Take advantage of what Saint Mary's and the entire Tri-Campus Community has to offer, even when it seems scary! I was able to explore different areas of study, build great relationships with my professors, and have life changing experiences by doing this! Elle Haney ’25 Communication Studies
After graduation, I will be attending graduate school at the University of Virginia to pursue a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction! I will also be teaching preschool back home in Virginia! Abigail Harnisch ’25 Elementary Education
I love that I was able to form such close relationships with a special group of girls at Saint Mary's. Katherine Harrington ’25 Elementary Education
What I love most about Saint Mary's is the lifelong memories I have made with my friends. Emma Heller ’25 Elementary Education
Starting my nursing career at George Washington University Hospital in the Intermediate Care Unit. Emily Katherine Herman ’25 Nursing
In high school, my choral director Lisa Faletto took us on a field trip to the Women's Choral Festival at Saint Mary's in 2017. I remember how we all dressed in our favorite dresses and dress coats and paraded around campus in stubby heels as we excitedly waited to perform. When we did, we were greeted by Dr. Nancy Menk who then handed us over to a Bulgarian professor that had flown in. We were so excited and eager to learn and Saint Mary's easily matched it without hesitation. I knew that as I looked at the St. Mary statue on The Island, then covered in crisp golden leaves due to the November fall, that one day I would be a Belle. And I think younger me would be so excited to hear that I am graduating from the very college we fell in love with so long ago. Makayla Hernandez ’25 Interdisciplinary Self-Designed Major - ISDM
I am continuing my education at Saint Mary’s to earn my Masters of Science in Speech Language Pathology! Elle Houin ’25 Speech Language Pathology
After Saint Mary's, I will continue my education and begin a PhD program at Michigan State University where I will be studying and researching Cognitive Neuroscience with a focus on sleep and memory. Joanna Maria James ’25 Psychology
My favorite memory was meeting my best friends and future bridesmaids! Madeline Elaine James ’25 Biology
It's the people that make the place. What I love most about Saint Mary's is that it has not only helped me find myself, but also my best friends and my love for the trees! Sarah Jannings ’25 Communication Studies, Environmental Studies
After graduation, I will next be attending medical school thanks to some incredible support from Saint Mary's College and Faculty. Grace DonnaDee Johnston ’25 Biology
At Saint Mary's, I love that the professors take an interest in everyone's learning and want everyone to succeed. Mary Kaczynski ’25 Nursing
At Saint Mary's I loved the Sustainable Farm and their amazing dedication to sustainability and justice! Abigail Kawalec ’25 Environmental Studies
I love the community that Saint Mary’s has. Not only the community the students build together, but also with the professors as well. Samantha Kazmierczak ’25 Psychology
I love the size of Saint Mary’s. It allows you to be familiar with almost everyone in your year and have a personal connection with professors! Molly Morgan Kearns ’25 Nursing
The thing I love most about Saint Mary’s is the incredible sisterhood. It’s a place where you can grow into the best version of yourself, surrounded by unwavering support from fellow Belles. Saint Mary’s College is where I found my lifelong sisters! Georgette Kersman ’25 Neuroscience
I am ecstatic to begin my career as a pediatric nurse at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago! Kaitlyn King ’25 Nursing
The thing I love most about Saint Mary's is the community. I have formed great relationships with roommates, classmates, and faculty. Andie Kizer ’25 Master of Speech Language Pathology
One of my favorite memories at Saint Mary's would be hammocking with my roommates near Lake Marian! Adrianna Koehler ’25 Political Science
After graduation, I will be moving to Boston. Kathryn Lucas ’25 Nursing
I love all of the incredible women I’ve met here, the faculty that cares so much for every student, and my professors that love their jobs! Marie Jane Lunne ’25 Communication Studies
After graduation, I will be working in East Grand Rapids at Aon as a Commerical Risk Account Specialist. Kaylen Joy Maat ’25 Statistical & Actuarial Mathematics
After graduating, I will be starting graduate school this fall to obtain my Masters Degree in Occupational Therapy at Governors State University. I am so grateful for the knowledge and opportunities that I have gained from my four years at Saint Mary’s. I can say with confidence that this school has set me up for success in every aspect of life. I am ready for my next chapter, but will always hold a place in my heart for SMC. Devyn Mangin ’25 Psychology
My favorite memory of Saint Mary's was running to the lake with my roommate in the snow! Meghan Martinez ’25 Sociology
I’ll be attending the Denver Publishing Institute this summer and I hope to work in book publishing afterwards. Amanda Massa ’25 English Literature and Creative Writing
I’ll never forget the all the late nights laughing and goofing around with my roommates who became my best friends. I am forever grateful for the ones who got me through the past four years. Sydney May ’25 Communication Studies
Next up for me? I will be teaching 4th grade in OKC, Oklahoma with the ACE program at Notre Dame! Jenna Mayden ’25 Elementary Education
After graduation, I will be working as a nurse in the Emergency Department at Bronson Methodist Hospital!! McKenzie Lee McDaniel ’25 Nursing
After graduation, I will be joining Ally Financial as an analyst in the Finance Management Rotational Program, where I’ll have the opportunity to develop professionally while gaining exposure to various areas of finance. Before beginning this exciting new chapter, I’ll return to Seville, Spain—where I studied abroad—to revisit a meaningful part of my Saint Mary’s journey and celebrate this milestone with friends as we travel and explore more of Europe together. Lauren McIntyre ’25 Business Administration, Spanish
What I love most about Saint Mary's is the lifelong sisterhood and the community I have found here. It is such a wonderful place and will always hold a special place in my heart. Go Belles! Mary McKenna ’25 Psychology
My favorite memory is all the late nights spent studying and laughing with my friends. In those moments, we became friends and I experienced the sisterhood Saint Mary's is known for. Ruby Meza ’25 Spanish, Speech Language Pathology
I love how perfectly this school blends Catholicism and feminism. SMC has empowered me in so many ways, most of them having to do with my identity as a citizen in this world. Isabel Migan ’25 Political Science
Work hard, play harder. Olivia Miller ’25 Master of Speech Language Pathology
I love the community that I built over my time here at Saint Mary's. I have never felt more supported or loved by a school, from my classmates to my professors, and I know that when I step out into the world I won't be doing it alone. Molly Minick ’25 Political Science
Saint Mary’s has been more than just a College; it has been a home where I stepped into adulthood, surrounded by a community that believes deeply in compassion, purpose, and excellence. Madison Minick ’25 Elementary Education
After graduation, I will be traveling to Europe to revisit Sevilla, España, where I studied abroad for a semester. When I return, I will begin preparing for the CPA exam with the goal of passing as many sections as possible before starting my career as an Audit Associate at KPMG US in Chicago. Kacie Mohan ’25 Accounting
After graduation, I plan to teach Kindergarten in the South Bend area, and I could not be more thrilled! Hannah Mortensen ’25 Elementary Education
My favorite things about Saint Mary’s are my friends and all the memories we made together! Clare Nicole Mula ’25 Environmental Studies
I plan to pursue a linked master’s and medical school program on my path to becoming a physician. I’m passionate about compassionate care, patient advocacy, and making a lasting difference in the lives of others. Elizabeth Nelson ’25 Neuroscience
I am headed to Northwestern University for my M.S. degree in Speech, Language, and Learning. After my graduate studies, I hope to be a speech-language pathologist in the Chicagoland area! Delaney Olivia Nold ’25 Speech Language Pathology
What I love most about it Saint Mary’s is the personal and supportive learning environment. My professors genuinely care about us, not just as students, but as people. It makes a huge difference to feel seen and supported. Kayra Aisyah Nugroho ’25 Computing & Applied Mathematics
I will be attending the University of Texas at Austin for a Masters in Latin American Studies, where I’ll be conducting an interdisciplinary research on Mexico that mainly focuses on its history and the role of women. After my Masters, I plan on getting my PhD in pursuit of my goal of becoming a professor and curator. Jeanett Ochoa Olivas ’25 Political Science
Saint Mary's has allowed me to grow in confidence and discover my vocation of teaching. The community here empowers women to be their best selves and to help others be their best! Piper Ogden ’25 Elementary Education
My favorite memories at Saint Mary's stem from sitting in the dining hall, sharing a meal with friends. Some conversations were silly, while others were serious and contemplative; however, looking back, they truly encapsulated the sisterhood that Saint Mary's fosters. These meals were cherished times with friends that I will treasure forever. Elena Orians ’25 Nursing
My favorite memory of Saint Mary’s is many late nights studying in my favorite classroom in Madeleva with my friends. Fiona O’Byrne ’25 History, Philosophy
Talk to everyone! You'll get the chance to meet many talented students, faculty, and staff during you time in college. The more people you know, the more opportunities can come your way. Samantha Pajak ’25 Biology
I loved making life-long friends here. Victoria Lynn Parent ’25 Nursing
Next up, I will be serving in the AmeriCorps via Notre Dame at the Robinson Community Learning Center. After that, I plan to go to graduate school to become a licensed teacher. Hannah Nicole Park ’25 Secondary Education
This is a beautiful, peaceful place, and being a student here is like living and learning in a garden. The professors truly care about you and want to see you succeed, which encourages you to keep going when you're feeling down. It was an honor to be able to attend Saint Mary's, and I will cherish this knowledge and experience forever. Shaina Parks ’25 Creative Writing
The lifelong friendships I’ve made from the sisterhood is what I love most about Saint Mary's. Jada Pham ’25 Marketing
The sisterhood is everything! Saint Mary's gave me a place to grow my faith and build lasting friendships, all while preparing me for the world beyond these walls. Jocelyn Porter ’25 Business Administration, Environmental Studies
What I love most about Saint Mary's is the strong sense of community and the opportunities for personal growth it provides! Knowing that my mom and sister also found valuable experiences at all-women's colleges makes my time here even more meaningful, because we share a connection to this unique educational environment that creates close-knit relationships and individual development. Mari Pritulsky ’25 Business Administration
What I love most about Saint Mary’s is the empowering experience you get throughout all four years. Every year you continue to learn and grow from the classes you take, the friendships you form, and through your own self discovery. Cadyn Reger ’25 Marketing
Embrace the sisterhood! Get involved and say yes, even when it’s out of your comfort zone. Never be afraid to ask for help—the relationships you build here will carry you far beyond college! Grace Renschen ’25 Neuroscience
College is a place to explore and become the best version of yourself. Make sure you invest time in your interests and to find new interests! Catherine Reynoso ’25 Speech Language Pathology
The thing I love most about Saint Mary’s is the community! I love that there is always someone (or an entire college) in my corner to support me! Addison Rivera ’25 Psychology, Speech Language Pathology
Next up for me? I will study at the University of Notre Dame for a Master’s of Science in Management. Libby Rogers ’25 Economics, Humanistic Studies
After graduation, I plan to finish my civil engineering degree at the University of Notre Dame, so I can pursue a career in this field. Sydney Sanders ’25 Mathematics
After Saint Mary's, I will be attending Indiana University Indianapolis and pursuing both a Master of Public Affairs with a Nonprofit Management concentration and a Master of Arts in Philanthropic Studies. Leann Saul ’25 Sociology
After graduating with my nursing degree, I will become a mother/baby nurse! Ava Schuldt ’25 Nursing
I'm excited to begin my career in my field immediately after graduation and am also planning to pursue my MFA in graduate school. Taylor Sharpe ’25 Art
I’m planning to take a gap year to work at a local hospital back home while preparing to apply to medical school. I’m hoping the experience will give me more time in a clinical setting and help me stay connected to patient care as I get ready for the next step! Judith Guadalupe Sital ’25 Chemistry
The lifelong friends and memories we have made at Saint Mary’s are what I love (and will miss) the most! Katelyn Grace Sizemore ’25 Gender and Women's Studies, Speech Language Pathology
Next for me is to pursue a career within marketing. Sydney Skarbek ’25 Business Administration
I love the community at Saint Mary’s and how connected I feel to this campus. My friends and the faculty make this place feel like home. I feel safe and supported everyday! Haley Smith ’25 Elementary Education
I love that Saint Mary's is a sisterhood that turns into life long best friends! Morgan Springer ’25 Elementary Education
I love the sisterhood and the close-knit community you become a part of the moment you step on campus! I love being able to walk around anywhere on campus and run into someone I know. Carolyn Steigmeyer ’25 Nursing
After graduation, I will pursue my Masters in Education as an ACE Teaching Fellow and teaching 4th grade in Stockton California! Elizabeth Stone ’25 Philosophy, Psychology
Treat people with kindness! Sophie Stratton ’25 Master of Speech Language Pathology
I love the lifelong friends and memories I have made at Saint Mary's. Ellie Stumpf ’25 Nursing
I love how Saint Mary's is rooted in sisterhood. The people make the place! Fionnuala Sullivan ’25 Communications
I plan to attend Indiana University’s SLP Master’s program to gain clinical experience, work in a medical setting, and later specialize in hippotherapy. My goal is to help individuals with disabilities through innovative, equine-assisted speech therapy. Marie Swain ’25 Speech Language Pathology
The students here are so friendly and are always welcoming. The professors take the time to know each of their individual students and push to really get to know you! It’s a very friendly campus and it was an amazing experience Kennedy Szabo ’25 Biology
After graduation, I will be working as the Assistant Director of Marketing at Ivy Tech Community College at the South Bend-Elkhart Campus! Mariana Taskey ’25 Interdisciplinary Self-Designed Major - ISDM
After graduation I will be moving to Savannah, Georgia to be a creative content intern for Fan’s First Entertainment! Shay Theile ’25 Communication Studies
Some of my favorite memories at Saint Mary's are in the classrooms. Getting to joke around with classmates and professors has made this place feel like home! Katherine Clare Theriault ’25 Speech Language Pathology
I love the friends that I have made over the past four years. They have helped me grow into a better person, and I feel so extremely grateful for them. Abigail Tietema ’25 Biology
After Saint Mary's, I will be attending Notre Dame next year to finish my dual degree in electrical engineering. Katelyn Tokarz ’25 Mathematics
They weren't lying when they told me college will go by faster than high school did. Cherish SMC and its people as much I did! You're really going to love it here. Katherine Alexandria Valdez ’25 Biology
This October, I will be an auditor with KPMG, and over the summer, I plan on studying for the CPA exam! Bridget Walicki ’25 Accounting
I love the friendships I’ve made and the support from the biology department over the last four years! Lucy Charlotte Wasserman ’25 Biology
I love the legacy of the sisterhood of Catholic women at Saint Mary's! I will be forever grateful for the lifelong friendships I have formed here over the last four years! Hallie Weaver ’25 Speech Language Pathology
After graduation, I will be a Registered Nurse at Northside Hospital in Atlanta, GA on the Acute Medicine Unit. Emma Cate Welstead ’25 Nursing
This place and these people are my home and there is no place else like it in the world. Meghan Ellise Westman ’25 Biology
My future plans are to educate and tell peoples stories. My goals include educating people on historic events and people, while sparking interest in the “mundane” history of humanity. Breanna Jean Wettergren ’25 Creative Writing, History
My advice for others is to put effort into everything you do—your classes, friendships, and commitments. You don't want to look back and wish you tried harder. Catherine Whittier ’25 English Literature and Creative Writing
My future plans are to go to law school! Angelina Wright ’25 Philosophy, Political Science
After graduation, I will be working for a construction company in St.Joseph, MI as their interior designer and selections specialist as well as their social media manager. Addison Nicole Wurster ’25 Art, Communication Studies