Sacred Heart Academy Hosts Women’s Leadership Forum Featuring Inspiring Alumnae
November 7, 2025

Alumnae return to share their stories of leadership, perseverance, and the lasting impact of a Sacred Heart Academy education.

15 Sacred Heart Academy Alumnae posing for a photo outside the school

Sacred Heart Academy proudly welcomed back 15 distinguished alumnae for the annual Women’s Leadership Forum, an inspiring event that brought together past and present generations of Sacred Heart leaders.


Throughout the day, these accomplished women spoke with current students about their personal and professional journeys and reflected on how their experiences at Sacred Heart helped shape the confident, compassionate leaders they have become. From the Speech and Debate team to the courtroom, from AP English to the Chief of Staff’s office, each alumna shared how the lessons learned at SHA continue to influence their success.


During the panel discussions, each alumnae shared stories of perseverance, passion, and purpose. They offered valuable advice to students preparing for their own futures, emphasizing the importance of community, resilience, and leadership grounded in the Sacred Heart values.


"Events like the Women’s Leadership Forum bring our Sacred Heart community full circle," said Mary Jo Hammill Clarke '79, P '12, Director of Alumnae Relations. "It is inspiring to see our alumnae return, share their journeys, and show how the education and values they received here continue to guide them as confident, compassionate leaders. Their stories remind our current students that with perseverance, purpose, and the support of the SHA community, anything is possible."


Sacred Heart Academy is deeply grateful to these alumnae for returning to campus and giving back to the SHA community by inspiring the next generation of women leaders.


Participating Alumnae


Maureen Callahan ’89, Writer, Best-selling Author and Columnist

Meaghan FitzGerald ’15, Developer Relations Engineer at Ava Labs

Katrina Florio, Ph.D. ’08, Clinical Psychologist, Northwell Health

Patrice Miller ’04, Artistic Associate/Director at Clever Girl Productions

Jennifer (Teta’90) Vitale P ’27, Assistant Principal, Plainedge High School

Julianna Holmes ’15, Senior Designer, NAINOA

Cassie (Herman ’02) Kralovec, Hospice Nurse at Capital Caring Health

Meghan McNally ’07, Chief of Staff to President and CEO at Alliance Bernstein

Rosa Pereira, D.O. ’91, Physicians Partner at Northwell Health

Jacqueline Stykes ’08, LP Associate at Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan

Claudia Chieco ’12, Project Manager, CMR Civil

Caroline Kenny ’11, White House Producer with NBC News

Mary Kate (Quinn '06) Giordano, Senior Client for Financial Services at NVIDIA

Whitney (Garlick '05) Maniatty, Wholesale Director at Givenchy Americas

Rolanda (Bell '05) Silverman, Account Manager at New Balance Inc/East Coast Regional

Share

Alexander Chan Ph.D., Assistant Professor speaking about Artificial Intelligence
February 9, 2026
Dr. Alexander Chan and Prof. Gayle O'Keefe of Molloy University visit Sacred Heart Academy to demystify AI and Data Analytics for future innovators.
January 14, 2026
Sacred Heart Academy has been recognized for outstanding student achievement and expanded access in the Advanced Placement (AP) program.

Inspiring Excellence in Every Student

Rooted in faith and tradition, we empower young women to lead with confidence, compassion, and integrity. Through rigorous academics, spiritual growth, and a supportive sisterhood, our students are inspired to excel in college and beyond while making a meaningful impact in the world.

Alexander Chan Ph.D., Assistant Professor speaking about Artificial Intelligence
February 9, 2026
Dr. Alexander Chan and Prof. Gayle O'Keefe of Molloy University visit Sacred Heart Academy to demystify AI and Data Analytics for future innovators.
January 14, 2026
Sacred Heart Academy has been recognized for outstanding student achievement and expanded access in the Advanced Placement (AP) program.
November 14, 2025
Sacred Heart Academy is delighted to announce an exciting new chapter in our Performing Arts program: Broadway performer, singer, dancer, and choreographer Thayne Jasperson has joined the SHA community as our new Artist in Residence. Thayne brings with him a remarkable career on the world’s biggest stages. Audiences around the globe know him from his unforgettable performances in Hamilton , Matilda , and Newsies . His work in Hamilton has been particularly historic, after a decade with the show, he remains the last original cast member, performing as Samuel Seabury and understudying the iconic role of King George III. Now, Thayne brings his artistry and passion for education to Sacred Heart Academy, collaborating with students through classes, workshops, and productions. As part of his residency, he will work closely with Musical Theater students on their upcoming production of Xanadu (March 13–15, 2026), sharing his expertise to help elevate the performance. His presence marks an extraordinary opportunity for young performers to learn directly from a working Broadway professional, a mentor who understands not only the craft, but the dedication, discipline, and heart it takes to thrive onstage. “Having Thayne Jasperson as our Artist in Residence this year is such a monumental opportunity for the students here at Sacred Heart Academy,” said Kelly Miller, Musical Theatre Director. “Learning from Thayne over an extended period of time through intensives, masterclasses, and workshops is sure to elevate not only our musical theater productions but our Music Department as a whole. We could not be happier to be able to provide this experience to our students!” At SHA, we believe in cultivating leaders in the arts, nurturing creativity, and giving students the tools to grow as performers and as people. Thayne’s commitment to excellence and his inspiring artistic journey align beautifully with these values, and we are honored to welcome him into our school community. “The Music Department and our students are thrilled to welcome Broadway star Thayne Jasperson as our Artist in Residence,” said Joseph Steiner, Music Chairperson. “Our students have a unique opportunity to learn from a world-renowned performer, and we look forward to seeing how he inspires their creativity and deepens their love for the performing arts.” We can’t wait to see the creativity, passion, and innovation that will come from this residency.