VJM Journal - Villa Joseph Marie High School
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VJM Journal Volume 35 Issue 2 Spring Edition Hope on a Rainy Day by: Olivia Rueger ’23 “Grateful”. If the Overall Chairs could describe the Hope- done by the Overall Chairs and Captains. Each of these girls A-Thon event and everything leading to it, “grateful” would worked hard in honor of their sister, Maria Middleton ’21. The be the word they use. Through rain and shine, the Jems girls danced for both a cause greater than themselves and for danced for 7 hours in support of Hope-A-Thon on April 16th. school unity. From hearing from the guest speakers to party- For those 7 hours, 320 Villa Students came together to bring ing in the gym, all the students enjoyed this event. The Jems unexpected hope to families fighting the unimaginable. The truly put themselves out there for the benefit of others. Not amount of dedication shown by the faculty, staff, and stu- only did Hope-A-Thon benefit others, this fun, safe, and fes- dents was outstanding and is clearly displayed in the num- tive event also allowed the girls to have a sense of normalcy bers. Together, Villa raised $95,208.08 in support of “Drew’s and relax after a difficult year. Whether in rain or in shine, it is Hope” and “Bringing Hope Home”. This event would not have clear that nothing can stop the Villa community from helping been possible without the months of planning and hard work others in any way possible.
Aby: Way for Juniors to Step into Their Spiritual Lives
Maddie Smith ’22
Junior Retreat was an excellent way Margarita once again leading the retreat.
for the junior class to understand Social First, we got to know each other by shar-
Justice and what it entails. We had two ing a story that defined our community.
guests, Darcy and Margarita from Saint We then learned about different stories of
Vincent De Paul Young Adult Center, people in Kensington by watching videos
host the retreat. The junior class was split and reading articles. Personally, I felt that
up into multiple small groups and did this made the service more fruitful, as we
an array of activities. Some activities in- could directly see who we were helping.
cluded origami, small group discussions, We then made care packages, which in-
reflections, and even video presentations cluded Gatorades, granola bars, tooth-
from fellow classmates. These activities paste, socks, and face masks, for a shelter
helped cultivate bonds with classmates in Kensington. We made cookies for the
while also learning about the positive im- shelter as well. Overall, this experience
pact we can have using Social Justice. was very fulfilling for those who partic-
Junior Immersion consisted of a small ipated, and it furthered our passion for
group of 10 girls with guests Darcy and service.
Another Successful Year of Service for CSC
by: Juliana Tulio ’22
VJM JOURNAL | 2 | WITHIN & BE YOND THESE WALLS
This year, Villa’s Community Service of CSC Secretary Brianne Smith ’22,
Club (CSC) developed new ways to con- “Despite these times, you can always find
tinue doing service due to COVID-19 re- a way to serve.”
strictions. Although unable to take tradi- Earlier in the year, CSC members
tional trips to Blessed Sarnelli House in painted pumpkins for Halloween that
Kensington, PA, CSC continued donating were then used to decorate a local nurs-
food to Sarnelli by having baked ziti sign- ing home. During the Christmas season,
ups and holding after-school sessions for CSC had a food drive for Sarnelli and re-
students to make peanut butter and jel- ceived many donations for the gift card
ly sandwiches. In addition to individual giving tree. For Valentine’s Day, club
service opportunities, CSC continued members made valentines for Holland
its monthly meetings, which consisted Village (formally named as Twining Vil- preschool. CSC has many more service
of performing service for specific orga- lage Nursing Home). At the March meet- opportunities planned for the rest of the
nizations. Each session focused on a dif- ing, club members learned about ASL year, and according to club moderator
ferent service-related topic and allowed (American Sign Language) and made Mrs. McCarthy, “We [CSC] have hopes
students the opportunity to support the a video signing the song “You Are My of collaborating with the Environmental
community in various ways. In the words Sunshine,” which was then sent to a local Club to start a Villa garden!”
Bonded Together with a Mission
by: Lizzy Mimm ’21
A last chance for the senior class to members throughout the night as they
gather together as one, Vespers, an an- spoke to them from a mature and reflec-
nual Villa tradition, happened on March tive sense. This retreat provided the se-
18. The senior class reflected on their niors with insight and a chance to get to
past four years at Villa and the growth know one another personally and spend
and experiences that they have faced quality time with those they love at Vil-
through the retreat. As part of the re- la. Mrs. McCarthy hoped that the “se-
treat, the seniors were asked to provide niors grew emotionally and spiritually,
a word to explain each year of their high with a faith that lasts them after Villa.”
school experience thus far. According to Vespers was full of sincerity and reflec-
Taylor Mueller, ’21, “the experience con- tion and reminded the class of 2021 that
nected everyone.” they will forever be bonded together by
The seniors also heard from faculty the Villa mission.
Honor Societies Induct New Members
by: Anna Wendel ’21
Villa Joseph Marie High School will the number of guests, and introducing
host a combined induction ceremony a live streaming option for additional
for their chapters of eight honor societ- family members who wanted to wit-
ies on March 15, 2021, in the Perform- ness their students’ accomplishments
ing Arts Center. After rescheduling this from home. The eight honor societies
event from February, preparations were recognize excellence in Science, Span-
made to celebrate the 92 students in- ish, Italian, French, English, Music,
ducted this year. Ms. Szylejko, the mod- Mathematics, and General Academics
erator of VJM’s National Honor Society, coupled with Community Service and
stated, “At first, it seemed like a major Leadership. Though current members
complication, but now certain students will not attend the event, the President
who could not come before can, and it of each society will speak at the induc-
gave us more to plan.” New precautions tion ceremony. Ms. Szylejko said, “This
took effect for the ceremony this year year, we have had to adapt and make that, and I am happy we can celebrate
because of the COVID-19 pandemic, changes so that we could have this our student’s accomplishments.”
such as creating seating charts, limiting event safely. We have been able to do
Aby: New Tradition for the Seniors
Anna Wendel ’22
WITHIN & BE YOND THESE WALLS | 3 | VJM JOURNAL
Despite the modifications that have incredibly busy at this time obtaining
been made to accommodate the demands gift baskets, contracting vendors, and
of in-person learning during the current preparing tributes for the event. VJM
pandemic, seniors at Villa Joseph Marie Principal Mrs. Carr remarked, “We made
High School had a new and celebratory the decision[s] based off of COVID-19
tradition to look forward to. In a typical guidelines, parent feedback from surveys
year, students from across the school and discussions, family comfort levels,
would participate in both a Father-Daugh- and the potential for more vaccine roll-
ter Dance and Mother-Daughter Tea to outs before the spring.” Of course, even
celebrate the special bond between par- with these modifications, the essential
ents and children. This year, VJM’s Office elements could still be preserved, such
of Institutional Advancement, along with as food, the fundraising element of the
the Parents’ Guild, planned an event that Mother-Daughter Tea, and dancing from
combined these two special occasions. the Father-Daughter Dance. Mrs. Carr
On May 8, 2021, VJM hosted its first-ever stated, “the main tradition [is] spending
Guardian Gala for its graduating Senior time with your parent/loved one while
class. Contributors to this event were enjoying a night out, dressed up.”
For the Girls - Annual Spring Auction
by: Lizzy Mimm ’21
The Spring Auction, an annual tradi- All items are grouped and staged to be
tion, was held March 16-20. Between gift photographed. Since this year’s Auction
procurement, the spirit committee, gift was virtual, pictures with descriptions of
cataloging, distribution, and bidding, this each basket were taken. Gift distributors
event required a lot of planning for it to are then responsible for getting baskets
run so smoothly. to the winners.
The committee begins preparation Social Media posts helped intrigue
by asking local businesses to support viewers. Mrs. Franzzo and Mrs. Gorman
the Auction. The spirit committee then promoted the Auction on social media by
works their hardest to create several providing ‘sneak peeks’ of what anyone
Villa-marked items. Any VJM item, like could win. According to Ms. McDonald,
bags or beach towels, is made by them. at the time, “there are some truly fabulous to a Weber grill.” We hope you got your
Gift cataloging is when the committee items up for bid in this year’s event!” As hands on a few of these incredible items
receives and tracks all items coming in. Mrs. Johnson then stated, “This year’s when you participated this year. Save the
Gift production is where the spectacular Auction offers things for alumnae, par- date for next year’s Auction on Saturday,
presentations everyone sees are created. ents, and students, from the Villa bike March 19, 2022!
Second Semester Highlights
All-Catholic Band NHD Winners Welcome, Mr. Burke CRS Collection May Crowning
VJM JOURNAL | 4 | WITHIN & BE YOND THESE WALLS
No Place for Hate Returns
by: Taylor Mueller ’22
Perfectly Imperfect
by: Anna Wendel ’21
Villa has regained an important program this year known On Saturday, February 27, 2021, Villa Joseph Marie High
as No Place for Hate. No Place for Hate supports inclusion, School hosted their second annual Women’s Symposium, ex-
promotes stopping bullying, and additional awareness for in- emplifying what speaker Katelyn Romeo called “a certain in-
clusivity in school communities and the surrounding commu- domitable spirit that Villa girls possess.” Mrs. McDonald, Di-
nities. The program is a part of many schools across the nation rector of Institutional Advancement, and the Future Business
and was recently restarted here at Villa this past semester. Leaders Club, led by President Mary Frances McNulty, orga-
The program’s kick-off was paired with the Senior Real nized this entirely virtual event. Eight outstanding female lead-
World Day and Student Life Day, where all of the students who ers from the community were chosen as speakers: Mary Fran
participated signed a promise and learned more about what Bontempo, Jen Crompton, Kaitlin Files ’06, Kimberly O’Grady,
the program entailed. Christine Papp ’00, Katelyn Romeo ’10, Christen Routh, and Re-
Villa has many clubs and organizations for the girls to bekah Siau. Mary Frances remarked, “The fact that Villa hosted
choose from, and girls can always start new clubs. Senior Grace this leadership forum reflects our school[’s]...commitment to
Kelly discussed what creating a new club entails, “I imagine developing tomorrow’s leaders.”
starting a club anywhere is a lot of work! It took lots of focus, The first keynote speaker, Kimberly O’Grady, sister of Ma-
energy, and time, but is all worth it!” After being asked what ria Middleton ’21, set a precedent for “speaking candidly on
lasting impact she hoped the club would have on Villa, Grace sometimes painful topics to a group that was, for the most part,
stated, “My hope for the future is that every student can come not familiar to them,” as Mrs. McDonald wrote. This aspect
to school and have equal opportunity to learn and to grow.” of the symposium remained constant, despite many changes
that resulted from the current pandemic. O’Grady exemplified
the idea articulated by Mrs. McDonald that “...our speakers ef-
fectively conveyed that change is inevitable, that ‘stumbling’
or ‘making mistakes’ is not equivalent to failure, and that not
‘knowing’ is okay.” Speakers encouraged attendees to embrace
the “perfectly imperfect.” As Mary Frances McNulty said in her
opening address, the day was “an opportunity to discover the
leader that God calls us to be.”
More Highlights from the Second Semester
4
1 2 3 5
1. Congratulations to those who won awards at the Delaware Valley • Ella Arace: Soccer, Messiah University
Regional Science Fair: • Faith Bartos: Lacrosse, Bridgewater College
• Brianne Smith ’22 and Kelley Malone ’22 earned an honorable • Julia Beck: Soccer, Misericordia University
mention award in the team category for their project on Plant • Allyson Gallagher: Rowing, Duquesne University
Growth hydroponically vs traditional soil. • Sabina Hartman: Swimming, The University of Kentucky
• Abbigail Turco ‘24 earned a 1st place medal in the chemistry • Megan Iannacone: Swimming, Susquehanna University
category for her project on Types of Vinegar vs. The Molar • Kennedy Kilchrist: Soccer, Bloomsburg University
Concentration of Acetic Acid. • Katie Sullivan: Soccer, Johns Hopkins University
WITHIN & BE YOND THESE WALLS | 5 | VJM JOURNAL
2. A big round of applause for Bucks Happening’s 2021 Teacher of • Grace Taylor: Soccer, Longwood University
the Year, Mr. Bender. 4. Major thanks to NHS for making the teachers feel special during
3. Best of luck to our student athletes who will continue their athletic Teacher Appreciation Week!
careers at the collegiate level. Congratulations to: 5. Be the Light - We Love Our Seniors!
• Kylie Aquaro: Ice Hockey, Rochester Institute of Technology
Stepping In & Stepping Up Aby: New Business Manager
by: Carina Yancer ’22 Taylor Mueller ’21
Ms. Gallagher is assisting Ms. McBrinn, who teaches AP This school year, we have welcomed another staff member
Literature, Accelerated English II, Accelerated English I, and to the Villa Joseph Marie High School Community. We want
Honors English II, while she is virtually instructing. Ms. Galla- to welcome Mrs. Harkrader to the Villa family! Mrs. Harkrader
gher attended Saint Joseph’s University, majoring in English is Villa’s new business manager this school year. She attended
and Secondary Education while minoring in Theatre Studies. Shippensburg as an accounting major. When asked what in-
She will graduate from Saint Joseph’s University with her Mas- spired her to focus in this subject area, she stated, “I was good
ters of Education and a Reading Specialist certification in 2021. at math, my grandfather was an accountant, I took business
Ms. Gallagher has always loved English and serving others. Be- classes in high school, and I was good with numbers.” Some of
coming an English teacher was the perfect mix between being Mrs. Harkrader’s favorite things about Villa so far are that she
able to help others and instill knowledge. Ms. Gallagher is an loves seeing the girls in the hallway every day, loves the staff,
alumna from the class of 2016. She says, “When I walked back and that Villa is very friendly. When asked how she spends her
into its doors last September, I felt that same sense of home… free time, she stated, “Taking care of my three children, going
home is certainly not lacking in knowledge, diligence, enthusi- to their sports events, and driving them around, walking and
asm, hilarity, and most importantly, love.” Ms. Gallagher’s love running and being outside.” Mrs. Harkrader would also like the
for Villa is evident through her kind words. She is excited to be Villa community to know that she is a proud owner of a golden
back in her safe space, and Mrs. Wisniewski, Villa’s acting En- retriever puppy and loves to travel. She ended the discussion
glish Department chair, would agree. Mrs. Wisniewski taught we had by stating, “Don’t be afraid to come to visit!” Again, we
Ms. Gallagher when she attended welcome Mrs. Harkrader to the Villa
Villa, stating, “Her curiosity and Community! Her office is located in
love for English is clear in her ded- the guidance wing at the top of the
icated work ethic.” Mrs. Wisniews- staircase.
ki is thrilled to have Ms. Gallagher
back through the Villa doors with a
different role. The English Depart-
ment is also particularly grateful to
have Ms. Gallagher join the Villa
faculty this year.
Pump up the Spring Spirit!
by: Alexandra Venth ’21
Spring Spirit Day is one of Villa’s most erously provided by the Parents’ Guild!
beloved traditions. It is a time when the This year’s senior-only activity was a
whole student body comes together for sand art station, where members of the
activities, fun, food, and, most important- Class of 2021 made a sand souvenir to
ly, dunking a teacher! Students were able commemorate their final Spirit Day. Se-
to vote on which teacher they wanted to niors also had a “senior preview” of Spir-
dunk during lunches, and Ms. Szylejko it Day by arriving early and getting the
was voted this year’s dunk tank “victim.” first chance to try out all of the Spirit Day
Along with the dunk tank, the bracelet activities before other students. Senior
and tattoo station of previous Spirit Days student council member Emily Vere-
also returned, joined by games like corn spy said, “We are excited to finally have
hole, spike ball, volleyball, and other yard Spring Spirit Day again after missing out
games, which students played through- on the tradition last year, and we hope ev-
out the day. One new activity for this year eryone else is just as excited!” In a year
was an inflatable jousting ring, where two where COVID-19 has made everyday stu-
students balanced on a pedestal and tried dent life challenging to maintain for most
to knock their opponent off using inflat- schools, Villa’s teachers, administration,
able poles. There were many salads and parents and student council have worked valued traditions remained intact.
sandwiches available for lunch, all gen- hard to ensure that many of Villa’s most
VJM JOURNAL | 6 | WITHIN & BE YOND THESE WALLS
Prom? Prom!
by: Lizzy Mimm ’21
Villa’s juniors and seniors got their set up for the occasion, from tables and
dancing shoes on April 23 and 24 for snacks to lights and tents. Senior class
their annual prom. Although it took a moderator, Mrs. Weaver, said that “she
“VILLAge,” according to Mrs. Brown, the put her all into this, and she prays that
event was made possible because of the Villa girls may also find their passion and
efficient senior officers and the student what they have been called to put their
body posing their voices. This year’s all into as well.” It took careful work to
prom was held on campus, different from ensure both safety and fun for the tradi-
the standard location in Philadelphia. tional night. The prom has been deemed
Creative thinking went into making this an overall success and proved that Villa
event possible, and everyone was sincere- could improvise even in challenging situ-
ly grateful that the event was able to hap- ations. A special note of gratitude goes to
pen. Villa’s campus was decorated and Mrs. Weaver for all of her efforts.
Here VJM Theatre Goes Again!
by: Callie Henrysen ’22
After the many obstacles raised by the did certainly raise many challenges
current global pandemic, Villa Joseph amongst the cast. Singing in masks, stay-
Marie’s Drama Club is finally back and ing distanced, and keeping things clean
better than ever! In Spring 2021, “Mam- are not as easy as one may think. Danc-
ma Mia! The Musical” was performed ing in masks is something that the cast
from April 8-11. All four shows sold out, can tell you all about. Makenna Buchinski
and the performing arts family was ab- explained, “Everyone is very enthusiastic
solutely thrilled! The cast put so much and very into it. It makes it all worth it in
energy into this show, practicing over the long run.” All of the preparation that
spring break and all through the winter goes into the show allows for the amaz-
and spring seasons. With double casting, ing ending result. “Mamma Mia!” is such
in case of any illnesses or mishaps, the a wonderful show to put on, especially magic.” The arts are back again! This Fall,
cast worked even harder to fully know due to the upbeat music by Abba. There Villa will be performing “The Addams
and become their characters and stay on really is no better spring musical for the Family”. This is a very fun show, and you
top of their game. The feedback and sup- job. This reporter will remind you that definitely do NOT want to miss it. The
port from the Villa community were ab- “‘Mamma Mia’ is magic. The music, the performing arts family hopes to see you
solutely astonishing. As said, COVID-19 characters, the self-discovery — it’s really there!
Getting Down to Business
by: Juliana Tulio ’22
The Future Business Leaders Club its first VJM Shark Tank Game Night.
(FBLC) has continued preparing the fu- The FBLC collaborated with Mr. May-
ture leaders of the business industry, de- er’s business studies class for this event,
spite the obstacles COVID-19 may have judged students’ products and declared
caused. Starting as a club with only 20 a winner based on the originality and
members in 2019, the club has now grown feasibility of the students’ inventions.
into one of the larger clubs at Villa and has Aside from having individual club
continued hosting various business-cen- events and fundraisers, the FBLC has
tered events throughout the school year. also collaborated with other Villa clubs
In the Fall, the FBLC entered a scare- and has been participating in multiple
crow into the Peddler’s Village’s annual Zoom conferences throughout the year.
Scarecrow Festival. In the winter, the club The FBLC helped the Drama Board sell club member Ashley Rosica ’22 states, “I
sold Christmas ornaments to, in the words raffle tickets for the Fall show and col- enjoy being a part of this club because it
of club creator and FBLC president Mary laborated with No Place for Hate to cele- provides Villa students the opportunity
Frances McNulty ’22, “introduce students brate Women’s History Month. The club to immerse themselves into the world of
to the challenges of running a business.” also had meetings with Congressman business.” To find out more information
The sale was a huge success, and the club Brian Fitzpatrick via Zoom and attend- about the FBLC, make sure to check out
was able to raise funds to hold addition- ed Villa’s Women’s Symposium, which its quarterly newspaper, “The Bottom
al activities. In March, the FBLC hosted was held virtually earlier this year. As Line”!
Programming Through the Pandemic
by: Delaney Geist ’23
Villa’s Coding and Engineering Club they created projects for all the girls in-
CLUBS | 7 | VJM JOURNAL
has created an algorithm guaranteed to volved to work with. When asked what
foster skills needed in expanding STEM kind of activities were done, the girls stat-
fields. These advancements into the ed, “Some of the projects and challenges
physical applications of math and scienc- we work on during the year are working
es are intrinsically valuable to our Villa with python and making catapults. Some
community and society as these girls members even create their own product.”
venture out into the world. Problem-solv- Needless to say, although no one could
ing is incredibly encouraged on the have expected how our school year would
many challenges that the club delves into pan out, the Coding and Engineering
throughout the year. Senior leaders Kate- Club was not deterred in the slightest
lyn Burke and Alex Venth have exceeded from continuing with their plans, with that is to be admired.
all expectations in running the club, as only slight modifications and ingenuity
Informing and Discussing Relevant Events of the Day
by: Olivia Rueger ’23
In a world where the media can be so love to open the presentations up to club
tainted, it is crucial that young people members, allowing them to present ideas
have the opportunity to learn the un- and current events that they are interest-
biased truth. This is precisely what the ed in. This club has also had the opportu-
Global Issues Club presents to its mem- nity to work with the No Place for Hate
bers and the Villa community in gener- Club to discuss issues of racism and sex-
al. Global Issues Club gives students a ism in our current world. The Executive
safe environment to discuss opinions Board hopes to continue this with other
and beliefs and develop new ideas upon clubs as well because current events are
learning new knowledge. This group has always relevant to a variety of subjects.
discussed and presented everything from The group hopes to grow in the coming
the 2020 Presidential Election to the Ra- years and encourages anyone interested
cial Disparities of COVID-19 to the issue to stop by and learn a thing or two. The
of Fast Fashion. This club focuses upon Global Issues Club is proud of its accom-
what the girls are interested in and what plishments this year and cannot wait to
they want to learn more about. In the fu- see what next year holds!
ture, the current Executive Board would
Gardening with the Environmental Club
by: Juliana Tulio ’22
The Environmental Club has been retum and will be adding a few more
hosting its bi-weekly meetings year- trees before the project is completed.
round and has been planning exciting Although the club is still finalizing its
upcoming events for the remainder of plans for a school garden in collaboration
the school year. During the Christmas with the Community Service Club (CSC),
season, the club created a “How to Have Environmental Club President Alex
an Environmentally-Friendly Christmas” Venth ‘21 hopes to accomplish this task
video uploaded onto Villa’s Instagram by mid-May. While the exact locations
story. In addition, despite multiple snow of the garden are still underway, the club
days and early dismissals earlier in the is hoping to have two planters and grow
year, the club was still able to sell met- peppers, tomatoes, and cucumbers. Club
al straws. The sale was very successful, member Isabella Spera ’22 stated her en- were lost due to the Coronavirus, like the
as the club sold 150 straws and raised thusiasm for starting a garden at Villa Earth Day event.” The rest of the school
money to support their next project: by saying, “It will add even more beauty community is eagerly waiting to see the
creating a Villa garden. In recent news, to the Villa campus and is a great solu- beautiful garden the club creates later in
the club just put stakes in for the arbo- tion for some of the opportunities that the year!
Calling All Writers
by: Sarah Taylor ’23
Villa is a wonderful place for a student art, then ‘Quintessence’ is the club for
to express her creativity. “Quintessence,” you,” Ms. Chirico, the club’s moderator,
which is moderated by Ms. Chirico and encourages, adding, “If you are a writer
Ms. McBrinn, is a magazine that showcas- or artist, you can submit to the magazine.
VJM JOURNAL | 8 | CLUBS
es Villa’s creativity. In the Fall, the club If you are interested in joining ‘Quin-
usually meets on Tuesdays after school. tessence’ or have any questions about
During the winter months, club members the club, email Ms. Chirico at cchirico@
eagerly await submissions from the Villa vjmhs.org or Mrs. McBrinn at lmcbrinn@
community. In the spring, the members vjmhs.org. Also, feel free to go and talk to
resume meeting on Tuesdays to create a a member in person. We’re always look-
layout. “If you enjoy reading, writing and ing for submissions!”
Mock Trial Team
by: Taylor Mueller ’21
Mock Trial is a club at Villa Joseph the restrictions and challenges that were
Marie that meets to prepare for court trial thrown upon the team by COVID-19,
simulation competitions. The teams pre- the team has had an overall typical year
pare case files and studies and oversee corresponding with the meetings and
forming it as a typical and real court case prepping for their trial and proceedings.
and compete against other schools’ teams Senior co-captains Katelyn Burke, Alex-
in the local area. The team gathered andra Venth and Grace Matwijec made it
throughout the year to prepare for these a goal to expand the team this year. They
competitions. After being asked how achieved this goal and doubled the num-
competitions were being held virtually ber of members by talking to the fresh-
due to COVID-19, Senior Grace Matwi- man history classes. The team gained
jec states that “it was definitely a differ- enough members to produce a JV and pare and practice under the leadership
ent experience, but we still worked hard, Varsity team; both teams are very proud of teachers, Mr. Micalizzi and Ms. Young,
and for the first time ever, we advanced of advancing to the next round for the and parent volunteer, Mr. Marriott, Esq.
to the next round.” After surpassing all of first time. The team will continue to pre-
Feats of Rockets and Flight
by: Juliana Marino ’22
Interested in exploring the feats of ground in 40-43 seconds. Teams from
rockets and flight? Villa’s own Rocketry across the United States vie to produce
Club has been doing so since 2018. What the most effective design, and leading
once began as a hobby among some stu- names in aerospace such as NASA, Boe-
dents and a helpful teacher has skyrock- ing, and Raytheon sponsor the National
eted into a vast interest in aviation and Finals in June.” The Rocketry Club cur-
engineering. Annalise Schuck, the team rently has multiple members who all
captain, insightfully quotes, “The Rocket- share a love of STEM and aerodynamics.
ry Club studies the physics of flight and Erin McFadden, who is on the team, stat-
explores the engineering design process ed that “the model rocketry club was a
by competing in the American Rocket- great opportunity for me to be exposed to
ry Challenge, the world’s largest model the aerospace industry. Going to TARC
rocketry contest. Over this year, we built was one of the most memorable experi-
and tested multiple prototypes to create ences of my high school career due to the
a rocket that travels exactly 800 feet in amazing mentors I was able to meet and
the air and carries an egg safely to the the love of STEM I was able to develop.”
Spreading the Joy of Life
by: Emma Doughty ’22
This year the Pro-life club looked dras- punishment and euthanasia. Being Pro-
tically different because of COVID-19; life also protects vulnerable groups such
however, we tried to make the best out of as children, the elderly, those in foster
it. We held a few service opportunities, in- care, those struggling with addiction, and
CLUBS | 9 | VJM JOURNAL
cluding making cards for recovering ad- the poor. As a catholic school, it is es-
dicts and holding a prayer service, both sential to spread this message and serve
of which had great results. The club’s pur- our community. We are hopeful that next
pose is to encourage young girls at Vil- year we will have more sense of normalcy
la to see beauty and celebrate all forms and plan to serve at local women shelters
of life. To be Pro-life means not only to and attend the March for Life.
be anti-abortion but also against capital
Join the Aqua Jems!
by: Sarah Taylor ’23
Villa’s swimming team, led by seniors ’22. Lillie came in 3rd for the 200 Medley
Hunter LaBree and Isabelle Brady, pow- Relay, and Sabina qualified and attended
ered through their sport season, even States for the 100 Breast. As Ms. Heuck-
as the winter COVID-19 hiatus placed a roth, the swimming coach, says, “Anyone
chunk of their season on hold and made out there who loves to swim is welcome
places to swim tricky to find. Fortunate- to attend swim team try-outs next No-
ly, the Aqua Jems were able to practice vember. My main goal for my swimmers
and compete at the NAC. The Jems is to be strong and fearless. The team is
competed in three meets and made the dedicated and hard-working.” Anyone in-
Villa community very proud with their terested in joining the “fun and inclusive
accomplishments. Four swimmers made Aqua Jems” can email Ms. Heuckroth at
it to Districts this year: co-captain Sabi- rheuckroth@vjmhs.org.
na Hartman ’21, Megan Iannacone ’21,
Madeline Patrick ’22, and Lillie Corino
Lax Off to a Great Start!
by: Carina Yancer ’22
The 2021 season looks slightly differ- lineup. The captains and I are very ex-
ent than spring sports have had in the cited to be together and to see where the
past. Considering there wasn’t a season rest of the season takes us.” The team and
last year, the girls are thrilled to have a their fantastic coach can definitely agree
season no matter what it looks like. Coach with her. Coach Magnone has seen the
VJM JOURNAL | 10 | ATHLE TICS
Magnone, the Villa lacrosse coach, says, Villa lacrosse team evolve throughout
“Our team knows we are lucky to be play- the years. She shares, “Even though we
ing, which is why we are going all in and are still looking for our first win, we have
always giving 110% each game.” The girls incredible stats each game that have kept
savored everything since they now know our confidence level up and our will to
nothing is guaranteed. Emily Leahy, a la- win.” Lacrosse players show up on game
crosse captain, shares her thoughts about days in full Villa gear, excited to play and
this season. She says, “With COVID-19 give it their all.
shutting us down last year, we were very
excited to get back onto the field. The
team looks solid this year with a great
Just Keep Rowing
by: Elli Einset ’23
Crew is a unique and little-known mask in the boat, and there are a lot of
sport, but Villa’s Crew team is expanding! spectator restrictions,” said Cecilia Kern
One of this year’s captains, Allyson Gal- ’23. “Usually regattas are super big — lots
lagher ’21, said, “It is such a unique sport of people and lots of food. We haven’t had
that not many people know about, and much of that this year.”
when we have races, we meet people from When asked about a favorite memory
all over the country.” Crew is a three-sea- from her three years on the Crew team,
son sport; student athletes row on Lake Gallagher said, “When the team went to
Luxembourg in the fall and spring and Ohio my sophomore year for Nationals...
do workouts during the winter. The team We met crews from all over the country
competes in the spring against other lo- and Canada, and it was a great experience.”
cal teams as well. The talented Crew team represented
The team did have some differenc- the school at Nationals once again this
es in their season this year because of year, and their accomplishments were
COVID-19. “The girls have to wear a nothing short of inspirational.Jumping Through Hoops with a Swish
by: Elli Einset ’23
The basketball team was able to keep there were many memories made on and
its cool and thrive in its season, even off the court during the season.
with COVID-19 restrictions in place. “It is also the first time I have beaten
“Although we have to wear masks at ev- Villa Maria since I have been at VJM. It
ery practice and game, and COVID-19 was a great team moment, and we were
interfered with our chances of playing able to celebrate on the court,” said Beck.
in Districts, it was still an unforgettable When asked about a memory from
season with many firsts: first time beating this year that stood out to her, Mrs. Fly-
Mount and VMA and first time making it nn-Hensel, Villa’s Athletic Director, said,
to league playoffs,” said Julia Beck ’21. “The Council Rock South game... We
The season ended with a record of 8-8, played well against a team that was an
earning the team a spot in the playoffs. even match and local rival. It was also the
Unfortunately, the season was stopped game where Julia Beck scored her 1000th
short due to COVID-19 cases, though point!”
Handling Every Hurdle
by: Delaney Geist ’23
Whether their sneakers pounded on I think that the coaches and team have
the ground or their muscles burned while been working really hard to make sure we
practicing indoors, the track team has put are able to enjoy the season as much as
in a lot of hard work this past Winter and possible.” This sentiment is mirrored by
current Spring. Despite the dark cloud the meets, which were slightly different
ATHLE TICS | 11 | VJM JOURNAL
COVID-19 cast upon all of us, the team with fewer people and more masks but
persevered with safety and caution. From successful all the same. There were no
the constant mask-wearing to using their shadows from the pandemic insight as
own jump-ropes for workouts and being the talented girls on the team broke bar-
creative with other exercises because of riers time and time again through their
the absence of weight-lifting, the track positivity, dedication, and work ethic.
team adapted with a determined spir-
it. Sophomore Olivia Burke explained,
“Even though it has been a little different,
I’m so grateful to have the opportunity
with my friends during the pandemic, and
Swinging for the Fences
The Villa Joseph Marie softball team Team captains Rebecca Minnichbach
made history this year with its tenacious ’22, Brynn Davis ’22, and Maria Gordon
skill and dedicated work ethic. As a re- ’22, led with talent and maturity. The
sult, the squad found itself in the State best part about this young team is that
Playoffs for the first time in quite some it will keep most of its current talent into
time. With heavy hitters and smart play- next year’s season. Congratulations to
ers on offense and defense, this team is the players and coaching staff that have
a force to be reckoned with. As the 2021 worked together to achieve greatness
District One 4A Champions, the team al- this year. Best of luck to all the players in
ready had a great deal to be proud of. their pursuit of continued victories!
After defeating Archbishop Carroll 7-3
in the first round of the 4A PIAA softball
tournament, the team lost to Bethlehem
Catholic in the quarterfinal.EDITORIAL NOTE
The VJM Journal is a student Another Year of Success with AHA
publication. It is created by by: Elli Einset ’23
the VJM Journal staff, along Athletes Helping Athletes (AHA) to think of alternative ways to keep their
with the students of the Media
is one of Villa’s most populated clubs, message clear while keeping everyone
& Journalism class. The
whose primary goal is to encourage and safe! “Our Villa members hosted a Fall
opinions present in the paper
do not reflect those of the learn through new experiences even zoom night. We delivered bags full of
student body, staff, faculty or through a pandemic. AHA is run by an goodies to our buddies so that we could
administration of Villa Joseph Executive Board filled with students celebrate the Fall season with crafts and
Marie High School. Letters (Hailey Monaghan, Abbey Roth, Maya then ended the night with a dance party!
and comments should be sent Joseph, Julia Noone, Ava Noble) and We also planned a Neurodiversity Aware-
to Miss McKeever Transcend teacher, Mrs. Neeld. “This ness Month to inform our school about
E-mail: mmckeever@vjmhs.org club encourages me to learn about the some differences in the brains of each
diversity in our world; it is not just deco- person, because different does not mean
rating the gym to play a couple of games. bad!” says Maya. Through Zoom meet-
Instead, I am shown how to step out of ings, wearing ribbons and social distance
my own little world to become aware of parades, AHA was able to keep running
others around me, which opens my eyes with their message in the clear. “Athletes
to their problems and needs,” says Maya Helping Athletes has been one of the
Joseph ’21. AHA helps students become best parts of my high school experience. I
aware of the diversity in our world, and encourage everyone to join!”
STAFF more importantly, in our community.
COVID-19 completely shifted our fo-
cus and changed the dynamics of our
club. Most of our time and energy, pre-
Emma Doughty ’22
COVID-19, was spent planning and orga-
Delaney Geist ’23
nizing for fun days to be with our buddies
Callie Henrysen ’22
Juliana Marino ’22 with special needs at events. Since in-per-
Olivia Rueger ’23 son events were not allowed this year, we
Maddie Smith ’22 have had to do virtual Zoom get-togeth-
Sarah Taylor ’23 ers, which aren’t quite the same,” says
Alexandra Venth ’21 Mrs. Neeld. Because of the pandemic, the
AHA board and members were forced
EDITORS
Editor(s)-in-Chief
Elizabeth Mimm ’21 Aby: New Tradition Brought to Life
Taylor Mueller ’21 Carina Yancer ’22
Anna Wendel ’21 This year Brooke May, Mary Ellen do it all themselves, and they had help
Connelly, Gianna Fiduccia, and Hailey from a large group of captains, teachers,
Assistant Editor(s)-in-Chief
Monaghan began a new tradition at Vil- and sponsors. Mrs. McCarthy also played
Elli Einset ’23
Juliana Tulio ’22
la, Hope-A-THON. For the past two years, a significant role in organizing the event.
Carina Yancer ’22 these girls have come up with ways to She says, “I began working with the over-
commemorate families who have strug- all chairs well over a year before the actu-
Moderator gled with cancer and Batten disease. al event, and they worked tirelessly plan-
Miss McKeever Hope-A-THON, rescheduled many times, ning out every last detail.” The day was
finally happened on April 16, 2021. Brooke full of love and fun, and Villa students
May, one of the chairpersons, says, “We hope to continue this excellent tradition
never even imagined we would raise that for many years!
much money and have SO much fun!” Ev-
eryone was shocked to see over $95,000
raised, but after all, the Jems know how to
support those in need! She followed up by
saying, “This money will be making such
a big difference in the lives of families
battling cancer and Batten Disease.” For
girls who are close with people who are
battling cancer or Batten disease, Hope-
A-THON meant so much and brought up
many emotions. The chairpersons didn’tYou can also read
