Revisited ECHOES PRESTON - VALUES. VISION. VOICE - Preston High School
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SUMMER 2021
PRESTON
ECHOES
Revisited
VALUES. VISION. VOICE
A PUBLICATION FOR ALUMNAE, FAMILY AND FRIENDS OF PRESTON HIGH SCHOOL
Dear Preston Family and Friends, Dear Preston Family and Friends,
On Saturday, June 5, 2021, Preston staged its 71st Commencement Exercises in our Last month I had the distinct pleasure of attending the graduation ceremony for the Class of 2021.
sun-filled backyard. Fortunately, the limits on the size of outdoor gatherings had been Never before has a class been challenged in the way this group of 125 young women was throughout
raised enough to accommodate the 125 members of the Class of 2021 and their parents, their junior and senior years when they were abruptly thrust into the world of remote learning. And who
plus Preston’s administration, faculty and members of the Board of Trustees. And thanks would have expected that it would extend for as long as it did! Yet despite the challenges of COVID 19,
to the technical expertise of several of our teachers, we were able to live stream the the Class of 2021 demonstrated their resiliency and determination and persevered. They came together
ceremony to our graduates’ extended families and friends. on the back lawn on a hot spring day to accept the accolades of their Preston administration and faculty,
their families and friends and to share one last celebration with one another before venturing into their
The Class of 2021 has much to be proud of. Collectively, they have earned more than $25 million dollars future as true young women of compassion!
in scholarships and grants, and two members of the class earned over $1 million each in scholarship and
grant awards from the colleges to which they applied. While 39% of the class earned Regents Diplomas, Now we look ahead to welcoming the Class of 2025 in the Fall and Mrs. Grendell and her staff are busy
over 60% earned Regents Diplomas with Advanced Designation, and 6.4% of those students earned preparing to return to full time in school learning in September. The Board of Trustees too, is looking
Advanced Designation with Honors, while 10.8% of our graduates were recognized for Mastery of Math ahead to a busy year in ensuring the needed support as we move into a post pandemic world. The Board
and/or Science as well. is committed to ensuring that Preston responds to emerging issues, that we do everything possible to
ensure that our students have a state of the art education and that we provide the social and emotional
Perhaps an even greater achievement worth noting is the development of resilience and flexibility supports needed as students return to school after this difficult 18 months. We know that re-entry will
that enabled our newest alumnae to persevere in their studies, while adapting to changing learning be an adjustment for many with new challenges and that there will be a “new normal” but the Board,
environments and class schedules. These qualities will certainly help them as they head off to college and administration, faculty and staff are all united in their determination to make the 21-22 school year one
future careers. of growth and recommitment to the values that are the hallmark of a Preston education.
I would be remiss if I did not pay tribute to our dedicated faculty, staff, and my administrative colleagues The future is bright at Preston. We emerge from the last year with resolve, optimism and faith in our
for their creativity, adaptability, and dedication as we worked together to develop a workable reopening future building on our traditions of quality education, Christian service and compassionate presence.
plan last summer that met the requirements of the Archdiocese, the Department of Health, and the I look forward to opportunities to meet many of you in the coming year and I send my best wishes for a
Department of Education. It was no easy task to be able to teach in two different learning/teaching happy and healthy summer. I pray that you may all enjoy God’s blessings throughout this coming year.
environments simultaneously, while trying to master new technology. Their empathy and concern for our
students was remarkable. Our maintenance staff, too, deserves recognition for working tirelessly to keep Sincerely,
our facilities not just clean, but sanitized, for the safety of all of us.
Barbara McMurray
We were saddened when members of our Preston community fell ill with COVID and prayed for their
quick recovery. We grieved when we learned of the passing of family members due to COVID and Barbara McMurray
prayed for the repose of their souls and the comfort of those whom they left behind. The Religious of the President, Board of Trustees
Divine Compassion (RDC), our sponsoring congregation, suffered the loss of a number of their Sisters,
including some who had taught at PHS in years past, and we grieved for them too.
Now we are looking forward, with hope, to the coming academic year when we can gather together, laugh
together, learn together, pray together, and give thanks for simply being together again.
Best wishes for a restful summer,
Jane Grendell, Principal
2 | www.prestonhs.org Preston Echoes Revisited | 3
Dear Preston High School Stakeholders:
GRADUATION 2021
Alumna Sasha Panaram ’09 was awarded The Helen and Anton Wagner Memorial
Last year about this time I wrote you with a heavy heart because the pandemic had already caused us the Distinguished Alumna Award by the Award for Outstanding Service and
so much loss, in the lives of family and friends and economic resources. And we were asked to isolate Board of Trustees and delivered her keynote Compassion in School and Community
address to the graduating class of 125 Linda Marie Melendez
at a time we needed one another most. Even social distancing did not deter us from coming together students. Valedictorian Ingrid Alikaj and
as a group to assist others in their moment of need. An unbreakable will to survive and seamless salutatorian Analisa Matranga both had the The Ronnie Donovan Memorial
compassion for our fellow humans in need are our greatest strengths and have dominated our stand opportunity to say a final goodbye to their Award for Courage
against the pandemic from the start. classmates in their speeches. Angelina Lee Bozzelli
The Class of 2021 raised $25,855,096 total The Parent Association Award for
While each of us individually seems to have lost so much, collectively the burden is easier to bear. Preston High in scholarships and grants! Two students Outstanding Academic Achievement,
School, like many of its competitors, both public and private, has been beset with challenges that will continue to were recognized as Million Dollar Scholars Leadership and Service
affect us for a number of years. Families’ inability to pay, increasing out-of-state relocations, and a soft job market for being awarded over $1,000,000: Leandra J. Archibald
The Class of 2021 celebrated graduation
have become the major factors in our factors in our declining enrollment projected for September. in person on Saturday June 5, 2021 in the
Margaret Varenne and Linda Melendez!
Thea Tinawin was awarded the Corazon The Board of Trustees Award for Unique
backyard. As graduates were given two C. Aquino Scholarship from the College Leadership and Service to the Preston
In response to the initial wave of the pandemic, tickets each, guest chairs were set up in of Mount Saint Vincent, a full four-year Community
Preston’s Administration received BoT approval pairs and distanced, with the event also live tuition scholarship given only to a select few Kailey Briana Blowe
streamed for those who could not attend
of $20,000 in emergency tuition assistance (ETA) Current Tuition Discount Analytics achieving students of Filipino descent.
due to the capacity restrictions. The Principal’s Award for Leadership,
funds to defray a portion of tuition for its families 2021-22
Below are the memorial scholarships that Service and/or Academic Achievement
most affected by COVID. In 2020-21, we continued $ Students Avg Award Once again, the class had a 100% graduation were awarded to this year’s graduating class Raisa Jada Brissett
to serve an even greater number of families with rate and acceptance rate into institutions of and their recipients: Ekaterini Dupi
our own program ($500 - $1,000-qualifying Academic Scholarships
Service Grants (MMV)
$ 415,700
$ 15,000
60
4
$
$
6,928
3,750
higher learning, both public and private. Jaileen J. Espinal
family), and nominated and assisted families in their Financial Assistance $ 70,000 50 $ 1,400
We welcomed back five alumnae to present
The Cecilia Cunningham Noonan Memorial
Award for the Intended Study of Nursing The Sister Mary Carmella Stapleton
application for the parallel ADNY COVID-ETA Student Sponsor Partners
Inner-City Scholarships
$ 458,300
$ 142,020
41
45
$ 11,178
$ 3,156 their daughters and granddaughters Gianna Catherine Zillitto Alumnae Association Award for
program ($700 - $1,400-qualifying family), while Columbus Citizens $ 42,130 8 $ 5,266 with their diplomas: Sheila Garvey ’93 Exemplary Preston Spirit
waiving late fees and structuring tuition payment All Other Tuition Assistance
Legacy Discount
$
$
10,350
15,000
5
10
$
$
2,070
1,500
to daughter Hailey Badalati, Marianne The Patricia Langan Mrsich ’70 Memorial Elizabeth Ashley Kalaj
plans. We have not cut programs or resources; ADNY Employee $ 6,000 6 $ 1,000 Cappielo Porteus ’66 to granddaughter Award for the Intended Study of Law
Chloe D’Agostino, Melissa Paradiso Chioma Ohadoma The Divine Compassion Award for
rather, we have added additional college-credit
Sibling Discount $ 9,000 7 $ 1,286
Early Payment (EPD) $ 20,000 20 $ 1,000 Kibler ’85 to daughter Jessica Kibler, Gina Integrity, Generous Service, and
elective courses and extra Math 9 labs to address All Other Discounts $ 6,250 5 $ 1,250
Cardinale Troiano ’90 to daughter Alexis The Barbara Ann Lee Feinberg ’69 Memorial Exemplary Leadership
any deficiencies in math skills exacerbated by recent $ 1,209,750 261 $ 4,635
Troiano, and Lisa Viola Zollbrecht ’91 to Award for the Intended Study of English Brianna Meaghan Schroeder
inconsistencies in regular in-school attendance. And Gross Tuition $ 5,630,500
daughter Kayla Zollbrecht. Valentina Rose Menta
for 2021-22, we have planned the most ambitious Enrollment 365
tuition discount offerings in over 10 years to serve
over 70% of our students and make the case for the Tuition Discounts % Gross Tuition 21%
FROM THE PRESTON ADMISSIONS OFFICE!
advantages of a Catholic education. A very generous
% Students with Tuition Discounts 72%
This year presented some changes for the admissions office. Like all other restrictions, we were not able to host prospective students for shadow
donor, inspired by our commitment to our families, days or welcome their parents to our beautiful campus for an open house. We were happy to hold the in-person placement exam and will welcome
recently donated in excess of $50,000 to enable them to the summer academic Boot Camp in August. The Boot camp is a two-week program that serves as a crash course for everything Preston.
us to continue serving those most in need. In the long-term, we believe that giving to our families in need during these Teachers will review what to expect the first semester and our PHS students will get them acclimated with what to expect their freshmen year and is
most uncertain times will yield a higher rate of return on our investment because that greatest human strength - our a great way to meet their new Preston sisters. Help spread the word and become an alumnae ambassador!
compassion for our fellow humans in need - is contagious.
The pandemic has forced us to evolve. We appeal to you and hope you’ll consider the furtherance of our evolution to PLEASE MARK YOUR CALENDARS:
keep Preston as relevant today in an ever-changing, post COVID world, as our founders had envisioned almost 75 Fall TACHS Prep Fall Open Houses Shadow Days
years ago. We pray for you and your loved ones and the souls of the 4 million lives cut short by the pandemic, September 18 – October 30 (9 am – 12 pm) Sunday, October 24, 2021 (11 am – 2 pm) Tuesdays and Thursdays starting the week
Saturdays ONLY Monday, October 25, 2021 (6 pm – 8 pm). of October 6, 2021 through February 2022.
Mario F. Fava, CPA Fall Virtual Open House Please let us know if you would like to
Available upon request.
Call Mrs. Cruz-Rodriguez at (718) 863-9134
Mario F. Fava, CPA Wednesday, September 29, 2021 volunteer and serve as an ambassador or ext. 131 to schedule a visit.
Director of Finance (6 pm – 8 pm) speaker. RSVP to acruz@prestonhs.org
Spring Open House
Wednesday May 25, 2022 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm)
4 | www.prestonhs.org Preston Echoes Revisited | 5
NEWS STUDENT Spotlight
Announcing...
INGRID ALIKAJ: an almost virtual senior year, there is a very fun and welcoming place to be.
My very first class of a sense of friendship and vitality in I quickly got involved and joined the
freshman year was this class that I think is indicative Star Club and the Italian Club, as well
Music with Mr. Hayes, of Preston as a whole. I was able as Preston’s Varsity Cheerleading Team.
and I had come to to become the person I am today My sophomore year was also a fun and
it prepared with ten because there was never a time exciting year where I continued to make
different notebooks where I didn’t feel supported, some amazing memories like winning
and a few binders, just or pushed to be my best self. My Preston’s first National Cheerleading
in case any teachers had friends and the teachers of Preston title with my team. I also continued to
a preference. It is perhaps have taught me how to be strong and become more involved academically,
ironic that I ended senior year with a confident, and take up space in the world; being inducted into the National English
laptop being the only thing I brought to lessons that I will take with me for the rest and Italian Honor Societies, the Scholars
Angelique Cruz ’10 school, but in reality, I find it a fitting of my life. Program here at Preston, and continued
and Torrey Rodriguez tribute to how much I have changed over my work as president of the Italian Club.
were married on the years. Next fall I will be attending Northeastern My junior year, although cut short, and
July 4, 2021. University in Boston, MA and plan on senior year were still great years with
Despite joking, like every other freshman majoring in environmental engineering. amazing memories as well. Our teachers
did, that I had senioritis already, my I wanted to take the things that Preston tried their very best to make sure we were
timid self was terrified to even look into taught me and apply them to a new hanging in there when times got especially
Karen Guzman Wszolek ’04, husband Christian Wszolek and big environment, where I will once again be a hard and when we weren’t sure if we would
the senior locker room, and made sure
brother Luke welcomed baby Liam in February 2021. to keep so far to the right of the hallway freshman who doesn’t know many other ever be in a classroom together again.
that I was practically hugging the wall. As people, but who now will not even have Despite how hard this year was for us, my
Anna Lisa Colonnelli I slowly came out of my shell, I recall Ms. the word shy as a part of her vocabulary. senior class worked past each obstacle and
Weiss ’81 wrote a Farrell’s geometry class and Mr. Dillon’s I cannot wait to see what the future holds setback that was thrown our way and we
children’s book titled earth science class, which were some of for me and my sisters in the Class of ’21. managed to make it to the very end. My
“Always Ask His Name” the most intimidating blocks I had to sit class is a very special group of girls and
about four lovable through, as I was one of a few freshmen ANALISA MATRANGA: I know that we were especially strong
animals who are excited in a crowd of sophomores. One of the My name is Analisa when it came to dealing with every
to tell a precious young first things I noticed was how fast they Matranga and I am now hardship of our senior year.
took me in as one of their own, and made a graduate of Preston!
girl their names. It is
me feel as if I had been at Preston for I also had the honor Preston has made me the person I
available for purchase
years. Soon enough, these became my of being the Class of am today and I feel very prepared
on Amazon.
Tiffany Melillo ’11 and Rocky Singh favorite classes, and this theme continued 2021’s Salutatorian. to begin my new journey in college.
were married on July 17, 2021. on throughout my four years. Even as a I can’t believe my high This Fall, I will be attending Fairfield
freshman, I never once felt judged by any school career has already University with a major in Information
In Loving Memory
of the upperclassmen and came to find ended, but I am very excited Systems and Operations. I know that
that some of my closest friends and the for the future and to begin a brand-new I, along with all of my classmates,
people who taught me the most about chapter in my life. will flourish and succeed in college or
myself were not even in my own grade. It whatever future plans are in place because
was this sense of mentorship that I got as While my high school experience was far we were prepared and molded by Preston
Dr. Richard Blasucci, father of Barbara Blasucci ’86 Charles P. McCarthy, husband of Mary Donohue McCarthy ’55 soon as I stepped foot in the building that from ordinary, I am still so appreciative to achieve success and do amazing things
helped me become the woman I am today, and happy to have attended Preston in this world.
John Brown, father of Kaitlin Brown ’09 Irene Phelps O’Connor ’56 and that made me look forward to being these past four years and learned so much
Linda Rustico Cafarelli ’66 Emily Paterno, mother of Janet Paterno Shaw ’80 a senior so that I too could be the person during this time. Time has flown by so I would like to thank Preston for allowing
David DeFedele, father of Alana DeFedele ’23 that helped a scared freshman come out quickly and I can’t believe I am officially me to make great friends and form
Robert Steiner, husband of Rosemary Campbell Steiner ’54 an alumna of Preston High School. I important relationships with people that
of her shell.
Joan Fitzgerald ’57 Regina Connelly Sullivan ’73, sister of Margy Connelly Munsch ’75 remember my Freshman year, meeting I know will be close to me for the rest
Christa Meinhardt Janssens ’61 and Maureen Connelly Dowling ’66 It is true that Preston has a unique sense new friends and teachers for the first of my life. Now, after ending my senior
of community that is almost impossible to time, learning how to work the lock for year, I can confidently say that Preston
Elaine Jones, mother of Jeanine Jones McCarthy ’99 Teresa Tanner Vecchio ’76
find anywhere else, and that can best be my locker, and even trying to memorize has taught me so many valuable and
Barbara Gallichio Litrell ’61 Jimmy Ziliani, father of Jessica Ziliani Miano ’10 seen in the Class of 2021. I was incredibly where each classroom was throughout important lessons about every aspect of
blessed to have this group of people to the buildings. Although high school is life. I am leaving Preston as a hardworking,
Elizabeth Cleary Lonergan ’61
traverse the craziness of high school with. scary for any young, timid freshman, compassionate, intelligent, and
From small things like inside jokes from Preston felt like home immediately. I felt determined young woman who is ready to
TO SHARE YOUR NEWS OR TO REMEMBER A LOVED ONE IN OUR NEWSLETTER, Mr. Abel’s English class that are still vivid comfortable in my new surroundings and take on life’s next challenges and live out
PLEASE EMAIL GDELVALLE@PRESTONHS.ORG memories today, to having to navigate the whole community was automatically what I have learned here.
6 | www.prestonhs.org Preston Echoes Revisited | 7
ALUMNA Spotlight FACULTY Spotlight
SASHA PANARAM ’09 EDGAR left to pursue a law degree; worked for because of the community and the
Sasha Ann Panaram is an Assistant Professor of English and an Affiliated Faculty Member in MARTINEZ: the NYC Campaign Finance Board, students but also because she’s allowed
African & African American Studies at Fordham University, where she specializes in African American Edgar joined Greenwich Technology Partners, and New to inject some creative aspects into her
Preston York City Lawyers Association. Realizing Mathematics lessons. She has taught
and Caribbean literature and culture. Sasha received her doctoral degree in English from Duke University
in 2009. that what she really loved was learning Geometry, Pre-Calculus, Financial
in 2020, where she also completed certificates in African & African American Studies, Feminist Studies, and teaching, she returned to PHS in Algebra, AP Calculus, and SUNY Algebra
Leaving
and College Teaching. Prior to Duke, she received her Bachelor of Arts in English from Georgetown engineering to Fall 2006. Sr. Lucille Coldrick, RDC and Calculus, a course she submitted a
University in 2013 and also pursued minors in Theology and in Education, Inquiry, and Justice. Before starting pursue teaching hired her both times, and was a mentor few years ago for students who wanted to
her position at Fordham, she served as an Undergraduate Student Advisor at the Arthur L. Carter Journalism Institute at New York University. Sasha seemed like a far- as a strong, dedicated, and intellectually earn college credit for Mathematics but
sits on the board and is a fellow of the Patrick Healy Fellowship at Georgetown University – an organization comprised of current undergraduate fetched idea at the curious woman. Currently, Jennifer is a did not necessarily want to dive into AP
students and alumni at Georgetown dedicated to supporting students of color navigate higher education and the professional world. Sasha credits her time, but he quickly member of the teacher councils at the Calculus. Her favorite memories include
time at Preston, especially learning from teachers such as Erin Ponton Fiero, Christine Forlini, Kristin Sample, and Joseph De Bona, for inspiring her found out that his passion and calling National Constitution Center, National the many inside jokes she has with her
was to teach students mathematics and Humanities Council, C-SPAN, Bill of AP Calculus students, driving Geometry
to commit to a life of literature and to share her love of stories with others. More than 15-years since starting Preston in 2005, Sasha counts among
science, two subjects which students Rights Institute, Untold, and iCivics. a little nuts with scavenger hunts and
her closest friends many people that she met during her freshman year of high school. Her advice to the incoming Class of 2025 follows the advice something they never experienced
approach with apprehension. Over the
she gave to the graduating Class of 2021 at this year’s Commencement Exercises: Hold close the memories you make in this place with these people years, he has taught various mathematics At Preston, Jennifer used her education before, MATH PROJECTS!, and of
and always work to ensure that those who come after you can do the same. Welcome to Preston. Welcome home. and science courses, physics being his in history and law, as well as her course, the murder of Mr. Smith at the
favorite. He is one of our three assistant professional development experiences start of Geometric proofs. Kellyanne
principals, and in September he will take to create a senior year elective on race, also moderates Mu Alpha Theta, the
THE ROSARIO FAMILY on the role of Science Chairperson. class, and gender in the US that has been national Mathematics Honor Society at
2021 marked the end of an era for the Rosario Family as they celebrated the graduation of their youngest daughter, Rita Rosario, the fifth Preston very popular, and is proud of how well her Preston, and the Gaelic Society. As part
Many of his favorite memories revolve students handle discussing “hard” history of the NHS Faculty Council, she is also
graduate from their family. Rita’s older sisters, Sarah ’13, Deborah ’15, Joanna ’17 and Priscilla ’19, joined her parents after the graduation ceremony
around experiences of student successes. and wrestling with difficult questions, privileged to help students achieve even
ended to commemorate this moment. We’d like to thank their parents, Anneris and Jose, for choosing Preston High School for their daughters’ while also showing compassion. Her greater academic heights in the National
From the “a-ha” moments most of his
education and continuously supporting the school. students experience in his physics class, favorite part of the curriculum is when Honor Society. While at Preston,
to mentoring students building beach the students present their own lesson Kellyanne also completed her MSEd
buggies and prosthetics as part of their plans on contemporary issues. in Mathematics from Lehman College,
Independent Senior Projects, his time Summa Cum Laude in 2019.
at Preston has been truly memorable. Jennifer loves hearing from alumnae,
“There is nothing more rewarding than especially when they tell her how they Outside of Preston, Kellyanne teaches
knowing and seeing the evidence that were able to apply the knowledge they Irish dance with the Inishfree School
you’ve made an impact on someone’s learned in her classes to their lives of Irish Dancing. Her dance students
life or multiple lives.” His continued beyond PHS. keep her busy traveling to regional,
commitment to the Preston community national, and even international and world
and their alumnae is positive. A member In her free time, Jennifer loves to travel, competitions. As an active member of the
of the Throggs Neck community, he to cook and entertain, to drink coffee, go Irish community, she received the great
enjoys hearing about the successes that for walks, to brunch with her girlfriends, honor of Community Champion from the
his students go on to achieve after they and play with her nephews. Irish Echo newspaper in 2019.
leave Preston.
KELLYANNE “I have loved every moment
J ENNIFER CONNOLLY ’92: FARRELL: teaching Preston students
Jennifer’s time at Kellyanne started that Mathematics does not
Preston began as a working at Preston have to be that scary and,
student, graduating in 2015 as a ‘No, you don’t NEED
with the Class of Mathematics teacher. a calculator.’ I cannot
1992. She taught After receiving a wait to see what next
at PHS during Mathematics/Education year brings as I become the
the 1996-1997 BA from Siena College, Mathematics Chairperson!”
and 1997-1998 she knew she wanted to go
school years, but back and teach in Catholic
Schools. She loves teaching at Preston
8 | www.prestonhs.org Preston Echoes Revisited | 9
2021 YEAR IN REVIEW ATHLETICS Updates
DOUGHNUT TRUCK VARSITY SOCCER
The team had a shortened 6-game season. Everyone worked hard all season
All of the in-school students and faculty and staff were and loved to be back with their teammates.
treated to mini doughnuts after school the week before Easter
VARSITY SOFTBALL
Break. It’s been a tough year for all and the Administration
The Preston Softball Panthers are 2nd in the Division! There was no JV team
team wanted to do something to boost morale. Doughnuts
this year but there is potential to have one next year.
were enjoyed by all!
SOFTBALL ALUMNAE GAME
On Thursday June 17, 2021
the Athletics Department
hosted a Varsity vs. Alumnae
Softball Game at Veterans
Memorial Park. It was a close
game, but the Alums won
proving that they still got it!
GOLF OUTING: On Friday May 14, 2021 A reception followed on the
SPORTS NIGHT: A BBQ was held in the back porch. Next year, there
Preston High School welcomed alumnae
backyard in celebration of our student athletes will be alumnae games for all
and friends to its 12th Annual Golf Outing,
and their dedication and commitment to sports sponsored by The Westchester Bank. This sports, so stay tuned!
this year. The Babe Leath Award for an athlete year’s Golf Outing was the most successful
that exemplifies team spirit was awarded to one yet for the school! The event began in
Isabella Colon ’21. The Lou McSwigin Award, the early morning at Pelham Split Rock
for a student athlete who plays multiple Golf Course when 68 golfers drove off in
sports, was awarded to Brianna Schroeder ’21.
STEP UP DAY: For the first time, Step-Up Day was celebrated their golf carts to play an 18-hole scramble. NYS COVID-19 VACCINE SCHOLARSHIP
Graduating senior Madison Quattlander ’21 The day continued with a delicious
in the backyard! Each class rivaled the others while playing
was awarded the Donald Collins “Heart” Award luncheon at Posto 22 in New Rochelle, plus
games and enjoyed snow cones from Kona Ice Truck. Two awards Sophomore Charlotte D’Agostino
for being the HEART of her team. She also prizes and raffles. Nick Mancini, owner
were also presented to rising seniors: The Salvatore “Boman’s of NR Cafeteria Services and Posto 22, was one of fifty teenage New Yorkers
received a presidential scholarship and signed
Bunch” P. Marino Grant to Aime Zelaya ’22, presented by Emily the Del Greco Family of Tremont Offset, to be awarded a full four-year college
to attend Worcester Polytechnic Institute for
Marino ’11, and The Friends of the Divine Compassion Fund to and Lori Finelli, head cheer coach at scholarship to any CUNY or SUNY
basketball after playing Varsity for four years
Madison Langguth ’22, presented by Jamie Leotta ’11. Preston since 2008, were all honored for of their choice. The “Get a Shot to
at Preston High School. Make Your Future” vaccine incentive
their continued support and dedication
to Preston High School. All proceeds will by the state entered New Yorkers 12-
benefit the scholarship fund at Preston 17 years of age who got the vaccine
MRS. ANITA WICKS RETIRES High School. into a lottery to be awarded the
scholarship. Charlotte was the only
winner from the Bronx!
After 19 long years at Preston, Mrs. Anita
Wicks has decided to retire. Since coming to
Preston in 2002, Mrs. Wicks has shared her
love of science with her students. She began LUAU CARD PARTY: This year’s theme was a luau and we felt waves of emotion having an in-person
teaching biology, added chemistry in 2006, event again! We welcomed a little over 200 guests, a bit less than our usual attendees to keep in line
and in 2007 she developed a senior elective with capacity restrictions and guidelines. Our 50/50 and birthday calendar raffles were very popular
forensics class. She also served as chair of the among attendees, and gifts ranged in price from $25 to $1,000! The night was a success and we look
science department from 2007 to 2015. We forward to having more guests on April 2nd, 2022.
10 | www.prestonhs.org
will miss you Mrs. Wicks! Preston Echoes Revisited | 11
ALUMNAE REUNION New Initiatives & Scholarships
PRESTON LEARNING and extensive modifications over and Mother Mary Veronica, would and senior luncheon fees while the
the summer of 2022. Whether continue to support all students in remaining balance may be used to
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2021! CENTER students come to Preston with an their education at Preston High help with other expenses associated
In January 2020, Preston High Individualized Educational Services School. with senior year, such as the Senior
School began working to develop Plan, a Student Assistance Plan Prom and its related expenses (dress,
This year we will be having a double celebration to welcome back alumnae from the graduation class years ending the Preston Learning Center for the or are recognized by our astute We will be reaching out to all our shoes, etc.), or college application
in 0s, 1s, 5s and 6s. We’re so excited to be holding this gathering for alumnae to return to their alma mater, increasing number of our students teachers as needing extra assistance alumnae in this important fundraising fees. To apply, students must write
reminisce about their time here, and reconnect with old friends and faculty members. who learn differently. with their studies, our goal is their endeavor. If you are moved to an essay about the life lessons
academic success. make a gift, we welcome a call to they’ve learned while at Preston and
discuss the difference you can make how they plan to implement them in
We will get back on schedule and host another reunion on April 9, 2022 for class years ending in 2s and 7s. Other schools may refer to them
Our Commitment: Better in the lives of our students right the future.
as “students with disabilities” but
support for students starting here in the Bronx as they prepare
here at Preston we simply refer to
September 2021 themselves for a world of service and
1986 – Yearbook Committee them as “our students.” However,
1961 –
Snowy Steps
2005 – Preston Players presents Footloose
our academic and leadership teams
We call on you for your support of accomplishment. THE PINK PANTHER ANGEL
students who learn differently. We
understand that their learning needs
ask you to partner with us to ensure Please feel free to reach out to
OF COMPASSION FUND
offer us an opportunity to diversify Since its inception, The Pink Panther
that the Preston Learning Center is Cristina Fragale at (718) 863-9134,
our teaching approaches and that’s
?
Angel of Compassion Fund has
available in September 2021. This ext. 132 or at cfragale@prestonhs.org
r
why it was determined that Preston accumulated over $25,000 to
e
will be a place for students in need to talk about your commitment to
High School needed a program and
b
help students who are in jeopardy
and we plan on raising $750,000 our students. Whether you make a
physical place to meet our students of not being able to complete their
m
over the next 5 years to enhance gift by check or stock transfer, credit
e
where they are to help them reach education at Preston due to lack of
student learning. May we count card or through your Donor Advised
their highest potential. funding for tuition payments. The
m
on you to give and stand beside our Fund, you can help a student
e
fund will be used only once all other
students? Your immediate gift and/ move from struggling to soaring by
R
Research shows us that educational forms of financial assistance have
or a multi-year commitment before supporting the Preston Learning
challenges are unrelated to been exhausted. Initiated by a PHS
u
August 31st and your belief in our Center.
o
intelligence, but rather are caused alum, this fund aims to help fellow
Y
students can ensure we may embark
by differences in each person’s Prestonites take full advantage of
Do
on this project and make the Preston THE SALVATORE “BOMAN’S
brain functioning and other factors, the benefits awarded to them by a
Learning Center a reality in a few
such as stress, medications and
short months. BUNCH” P. MARINO GRANT Preston education. Please consider
our learning environments. We donating to this fund to ensure that
2011 – Senior Soccer Game understand that our students are – EMILY MARINO ’11 financial hardships do not stand in
We are pleased to announce that The Salvatore “Boman’s Bunch”
intelligent and hard-working but the way of a student’s journey at
one dedicated, generous alumna P. Marino Grant was created by
they simply learn differently. Our Preston.
from the Class of `1961 has given a Emily Marino in honor of her late
priority at Preston High School is
lead gift of $35,000 for the Preston father to help a rising senior attend
to our students and to our values,
Learning Center. She treasures college visits in the summer before
which include dignity, honor, respect
her Preston High School education senior year. To apply, rising seniors DANIEL T. HARTY
and compassion. These are the core
values that guide the development of
and experiences and remembers must submit an essay about how SCHOLARSHIP
Preston as a school where everyone the actions and decisions of their The Harty sisters, Theresa Harty
the Preston Learning Center.
could learn and find success. In an parents, grandparents or other McHugh ’73, Geralyn Harty
aggressive attempt to apply for relatives spoke, or speak, to their Giannini ’74, Rosemary Harty
Our school leaders recognized
grants, we have sent Letters of hopes for their children, how they’ve Wilbert ’78, and Christine Harty
that a year of remote learning and
Intent to more than 40 foundations benefited from their sacrifices and Fontaine ’81, have created a
personal challenges experienced by
and organizations that favor Catholic what they’ve learned from these scholarship in memory of their
1995 – Studying in the Library many of our students, in addition to
initiatives with the hopes of them examples. loving father, Daniel Harty. Mr.
the students who have documented
seeing the needs of our students and Harty was an involved parent
1971 – Senior Prom educational plans and those who
helping us fill those needs. We ask during his daughters’ time at
have yet to be screened, meant that
our students would need us to be
you to help us fill those needs too. FRIENDS OF THE DIVINE Preston, supporting them at their
extracurricular activities, and
ready to meet and embrace their
As a neighborhood school of COMPASSION FUND – becoming President of the Father’s
challenges as our own. All students
need learning strategies and support
excellence, we invite our supporters CLASS OF 2011 Club for many years. The Daniel T.
to join The Preston Community Five members of the Class of 2011 Harty Scholarship will award one
to help them thrive. The good news is
in a look forward. We seek gifts came together to create The Friends Freshman student in need with
that there are teaching approaches,
at any level, and also ask for your of Compassion Fund for a student $4,000 total, $1,000 per year to
specially trained teachers, built
prayers to guide us as we speak with as they enter their senior year. The assist with tuition. The student must
environments and coping strategies
past supporters and new donors in purpose of this grant is to ease the maintain good academic standing
to support our students who learn
our endeavor. We know that our financial burden of senior year. This throughout all four years to keep her
differently. Our plan is to make
2000 – Senior Luncheon 2015 – First Day of Senior Year founders, Msgr. Thomas Preston grant will be applied to graduation scholarship.
changes now, with additional
Please contact Ms. Del Valle at gdelvalle@prestonhs.org or (718)863-9134 ext. 143 with any questions. To set up a fund or donate, please contact Cristina Fragale at cfragale@prestonhs.org or (718)863-9134 ext. 132.
12 | www.prestonhs.org Preston Echoes Revisited | 13
RECRUITMENT AND DEVELOPMENT MISSION
REPORT Through a broad and challenging curriculum, a diverse, faith-centered community and a
commitment to Christian service, Preston High School empowers young women by providing
them with the skills needed to become compassionate leaders for change in their world.
DEVELOPMENT REVENUE SEPTEMBER 2020 – JUNE 2021 PRESTON HIGH SCHOOL ALMA MATER
Hail to Preston alma mater fair
Scholarships/Tuition Assistance/ Banners high in triumph we raise OFFICE OF
Restricted Ever mindful of your loving care
48% Fund for Preston 20-21
We will proudly sing your praise
RECRUITMENT &
(Unrestricted)
We will strive to keep your honor bright DEVELOPMENT
32%
And we vow to add to your fame
The maroon and white forever
CRISTINA FRAGALE
And the glory of your dear name
Sr. Director of Recruitment &
Preston High
PHS Sponsored Events Development
(Golf/Card Party) We pledge our hearts to you cfragale@prestonhs.org
Preston Learning Center 14% Preston High 718-863-9134 x 132
Initiative To you we will be true
6% March on, march on to victory!
ANGELIQUE
CRUZ-RODRIGUEZ ’10
BOARD OF TRUSTEES Associate Director of Admissions
Cassandra Aquart ’96 acruz@prestonhs.org
Over 72% of our students receive some form of tuition assistance from Preston, outside programs and foundations, or Sr. Laura Donovan, RDC 718-863-9134 x 131
in combination. The shortfall to educate a Preston student for the 2021-22 academic year is $1,105. Tuition assistance Tanya Douglas
funding represents over 21% of gross tuition. Geralyn Harty Giannini, ’74
Judge Doris Gonzalez GABRIELA DEL VALLE ’16
Jane Grendell, ex officio Associate Director of Alumnae
Lorrin Johnson Relations & Special Events
Janice Caserta Mastropietro ’80 gdelvalle@prestonhs.org
Barbara McMurray, President 718-863-9134 x143
Beverly McNeely
Donna Spitz ’77
NEW TO CAMPUS Sr. Carol Wagner, RDC ’69
ANNAMARIA RELLA
Administrative Assistant
THE PRESTON FAMILY WOULD LIKE TO WELCOME THE FOLLOWING Julia Wall
arella@prestonhs.org
FOR THE 2021-22 SCHOOL YEAR 718-863-9134 x148
Mrs. Maria Bento Tomas | Religion Teacher & Campus Minister SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION
Mrs. Angelique Cruz–Rodriguez | Associate Director of Admissions Principal | Jane Grendell, M.Ed. x 113
MARGARET AHL DAMO ’77
Ms. Gabriela Del Valle | Associate Director of Alumnae Relations & Special Events Assistant Principal of Academics | Carmen Lopez, M.S., x 115
Development Consultant
Assistant Principal of Student Life | Natalia Cruz, M.S., x 130
Ms. Lamteng Williams | Science and Math Teacher mdamo@prestonhs.org
Assistant Principal for Administration | Edgar Martinez, x 671 917-217-1127
Mr. Joey–Frederick Magsambol | Science Teacher Registrar | Craig Youngren, M.A. x 196
Ms. Lauren Van Sicklin | Science Teacher
14 | www.prestonhs.org Preston Echoes Revisited | 15
Non-Profit
U.S. Postage
PAID
Permit #1782
White Plains, NY
PRESTON HIGH SCHOOL
––––– EST. 1947 –––––
2780 Schurz Avenue,
Bronx, New York 10465
SAVE THE DATES
SEPTEMBER 18:
ALUMNAE REUNION 0s, 1s, 5s & 6s
OCTOBER 16: HAUNTED MANSION
MARCH 24 – 27: PRESTON PLAYERS
APRIL 2: CARD PARTY
APRIL 9:
ALUMNAE REUNION 2s & 7s
MAY 12: GOLF OUTING
TELL US YOUR NEWS If you would like to RSVP or donate prizes, sponsorships or for
more information, contact gdelvalle@prestonhs.org.
GDELVALLE@PRESTONHS.ORG
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