Thursday, November 3, 2016 | the Creekside

MOUNT MERCY ACADEMY ALUMNAE ASSOCIATION

17TH ANNUAL

Catherine McAuley Distinguished Alumna | Spirit of Mercy Award Sister Sally Walz Memorial Award | Mercy Devotion Award

Thursday, November 3, 2016 | TheCreekside 1 Tonight’s Program

COCKTAIL HOUR

MISTRESS OF CEREMONIES Bonnie Kane Lockwood ’73

WELCOME Margaret M. Cronin ’78 President, Mount Mercy Academy Margaret Flanagan Barrett ’73 President, Mount Mercy Academy Alumnae Board

INVOCATION Margaret Cuthbert Staszak ’75 Principal, Mount Mercy Academy

STUDENT SPEAKER “MMA Today, A Student’s Perspective” - Clare McKeone ’17 DINNER VIDEO

AWARDS PRESENTED TO THE HONOREES BY: Margaret M. Cronin ’78

SPIRIT OF MERCY AWARDS Anita Durkin Crotty ’63 Michael and Cathleen (Canney ’84) Lempko

MISSION STATEMENT CATHERINE McAULEY DISTINGUISHED ALUMNA AWARDS Marie Porter Cannon ’83 Mount Mercy Academy, a distinctly Catholic college-preparatory high school, Dr. Lisa M. Mendonza, MD FAAFP ’89 is dedicated to educating young women for academic excellence, compassionate service, Christian leadership, global awareness and life-long learning. SISTER SALLY WALZ MEMORIAL AWARD Rooted in Catherine McAuley’s vision for women and those who are poor, Maureen A. O’Connor Oakley ’73 Mount Mercy affirms the uniqueness and dignity of individuals and fosters faith with a commitment to the challenges of building a just society. MERCY DEVOTION AWARD Robert A. Fix

CLOSING REMARKS Mary Waters McDonald ’81

BENEDICTION Sr. Peggy Gorman, RSM ’60 2 Tonight’s Program

COCKTAIL HOUR

MISTRESS OF CEREMONIES Bonnie Kane Lockwood ’73

WELCOME Margaret M. Cronin ’78 President, Mount Mercy Academy Margaret Flanagan Barrett ’73 President, Mount Mercy Academy Alumnae Board

INVOCATION Margaret Cuthbert Staszak ’75 Principal, Mount Mercy Academy

STUDENT SPEAKER “MMA Today, A Student’s Perspective” - Clare McKeone ’17 DINNER VIDEO

AWARDS PRESENTED TO THE HONOREES BY: Margaret M. Cronin ’78

SPIRIT OF MERCY AWARDS Anita Durkin Crotty ’63 Michael and Cathleen (Canney ’84) Lempko

CLOSING REMARKS Mary Waters McDonald ’81

BENEDICTION Sr. Peggy Gorman, RSM ’60 1 A very special thank you to the 2016 Mercy Honors Committee

CHAIRPERSON Mary Waters McDonald ’81

ALUMNAE RELATIONS MANAGER Tina Scarpello Webster ’91

SELECTION/PLANNING COMMITTEE Laura Ortiz ’83, Maureen Byrne McCarthy ’67, Anne Marie Kuwik ’84, Joanne Schwartzott ’54, Catherine Warda Bender ’81, Peggy Kelly McFarland ’80, Linda Siekmann Dugan ’76, Peggy Flanagan Barrett ’73, Rosanne Simoncelli Wilson ’75, Pattie Keane Marren ’82.

ADVISORS Leanne Maloney ’05, Special Events Manager Julie Parker, Database Manager

MOUNT MERCY ACADEMY ALUMNAE ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2016-2017

President Peggy Flanagan Barrett ’73 Vice President Michele Donohue Nostrant ’86 Treasurer Margaret Whalen Brady ’99

Catherine Warda Bender ’81 Eva Evaldi Byrne ’86 Joanne Hilmey Cullen ’82 Linda Siekmann Dugan ’76 Ann Miller Fredo ’88 Mary Lou Letina Land ’99 Maureen Byrne McCarthy ’67 Peggy Kelly McFarland ’80 Madonna Sullivan Mulvaney ’69 Michelle Martin Vivian ’98 Brianna Wilson ’08

Congratulations to all our Honorees!

2 Mercy Devotion Award Catherine McAuley The Mercy Devotion Award is presented to Distinguished a faculty or staff member at the Academy Alumna Award who has served as aninspiration for, and The Catherine McAuley Distinguished has earned the respect and admiration of Alumna Award is presented to an Alumna students and collegues over the years. of Mount Mercy Academy who has distinguished herself as a woman of faith, knowledge, integrity and compassion Sister Sally Walz – a woman whose accomplishments in all Memorial Award areas of her life – her family, her community, The Sister Sally Walz Memorial Award is her career – reflect the legacy and mission presented to a woman, strong in Faith, who of Catherine McAuley, the foundress of the is distinguished in her family and career, Sisters of Mercy. a woman who shares her talent with the Mount Mercy Academy community, a volunteer who brings that generosity of Spirit of Mercy Award time and talent that marked Sister Sally’s The Spirit of Mercy Award is an life. This award is given to an alumna who, annual presentation of Mount Mercy like Sister Sally, has “an expansive heart that Academy to those men and women who is always welcoming and a generosity of exhibit the Spirit of Mercy in their time and talent for what needs to be done.” professional and personal lives. On this occasion these recipients are honored for We are so pleased to announce this new their outstanding commitment and award named in honor of Sister Sally Walz dedication to their community. These ’56, who was a driving force behind the persons are truly ministers of mercy who Mercy Honors Awards dinner. Her passion “…act justly, love tenderly, and walk for this event was always evident through humbly with their God.” (MICAH 6) her guidance, wisdom and insistence on integrity.

3 Anita Durkin Crotty ’63

Anita Durkin Crotty proudly introduces herself as “The MMA Class of ’63, mother of ’02 and grandmother of ’27 and ’32.” She and her husband Pat are happy to have their daughter Meghan, her husband Kevin Quinn and their children: Keira Crotty Quinn, Rory Barrett Quinn and Colleen Durkin Quinn close by in South Buffalo. A second generation Irish-American, Anita is the daughter of Bill and Betty Cuddihy Durkin. She learned, at an early age, that generosity of time and talent is key to a happy life.

Anita’s work on behalf of Mount Mercy Academy and the entire community has inspired others to give back in numerous ways. From her days in the Young Ladies Sodality of St. Teresa’s visiting the sick, through her years as a member of the Sisters of Mercy, to today, as a retired teacher and an active volunteer, Anita has demonstrated the Spirit of Mercy.

Earning an M.S. in Ed. from Buffalo State, Anita’s working career was in education. As a Sister of Mercy (Sister Mary Margreta) she taught Junior High Science at several schools including All Saints in Riverside, St. Joseph in Batavia, Our Lady of the Sacred Heart and St. Ambrose. Anita also served as the Principal

2016 SPIRIT OF MERCY AWARD SPIRIT MERCY OF 2016 of St. Ambrose. In those years she was actively engaged in the works of the Sisters of Mercy, following the example of Catherine McAuley.

Anita was active in forming the United Citizens’ Organization (UCO) here in Buffalo. She was trained at the Industrial Areas Foundation in Chicago in citizen- organizing efforts. The South Buffalo UCO proudly points to the restoration of the traffic signals on McKinley Parkway as an early success in the citizen-organizing effort, followed by improved housing stock and upgrades in playgrounds and athletic fields. A major accomplishment of this work was the involvement of the people of the community in the work and how it also nurtured a vibrant ecumenical spirit.

Anita’s knack for empowering others was further recognized during her years in Knoxville Tennessee where she worked as the Program Services Director for the Tanasi Girl Scout Council. While in Tennessee, she and her husband Pat worked with Dismas House of Nashville in a jail ministry program. They helped inmates prepare for release by teaching them life skills and techniques for good decision making.

4 When Anita & Pat returned to Buffalo, Anita became a stay-at-home-mom to their daughter Meghan. During this time, Anita served as a Religious Education teacher as well as served on the Parish Council of St. Bernadette’s, including its Presidency. Returning to her education career, Anita served as a teacher in the Buffalo Public School system. She supported her students in the classroom and in the schools’ extra-curricular activities. The highlight was her work at Leonardo da Vinci High School where she served as a science teacher, National Honor Society advisor, in extra-curricular school activities as well as actively participating in district- wide science committees. This contribution and dedication to the district resulted in curriculum improvements and grant monies, including a six million dollar grant to the Buffalo district.

Anita taught at DaVinci High School in Buffalo for many years. When the Board of Education wanted to move the school it was Anita’s community-organizing skills, organizational management and drive that assisted students, faculty and parents in preserving DaVinci on the D’Youville campus. Her knowledge of the Buffalo area and her advocacy on the topic kept the Board of Education from moving the school to a new location. Anita’s work as teacher, principal and mentor has enabled her to leave her mark on so many lives.

Empowering others and helping them realize their strengths is something Anita strives to bring to light in young students and with all people with whom she works. Anita’s ability to see these strengths and foster them has proven her abilities as an educator and administrator. Anita is a true supporter of Mount Mercy Academy. She has just finished her second three-year term as a member of the Board of Trustees, serving as Board Secretary. When the Horizons publication is being prepared Anita uses her Language Arts skills, honed at MMA, as one of the proof-readers for the magazine. She is a presence and volunteer extraordinaire that can often be seen in the halls at Mount Mercy Academy. Drive down Red Jacket Parkway and you’ll likely see Anita’s van parked in front while she is upstairs on the 3rd floor, stuffing envelopes, supporting many endeavors, proofreading projects and even running errands. Currently Anita coordinates all facets of the Mount Mercy Academy Memorial Program, succeeding Maureen Canney ’52 who initiated the Program in 1990. Anita’s dedication to this program is unending as she writes personal notes in Memorial cards and often attends local wakes for Mount Mercy Academy alumnae, showing each family that their lost loved one was, and will always be a “Mercy Girl”.

Anita Crotty has become an integral part of the Western New York community in so many ways, giving her time and efforts to the support and growth of young minds in schools as well as in ministry. Her dedication to Mount Mercy is further proven by her generosity of time spent behind the scenes of all things Mercy. Mount Mercy Academy is proud to present Anita Durkin Crotty ’63 with the Spirit of Mercy Award.

5 Cathleen Canney ’84 and Michael Lempko

Cathleen Canney Lempko ‘84 and Michael Lempko are visible, passionate and humble volunteers. You can be certain to have a “Lempko sighting” somewhere on the premises if you are attending a Mount Mercy Academy event. They are known to take initiative and step forward. They also are known to drop everything and come running whenever and wherever they are needed to assist Mount Mercy Academy. They can be found chairing events, volunteering on committees, setting up, arranging raffle baskets, cleaning up and bartending. Simply said, Cathleen and Mike Lempko always volunteer and go where they are needed to advance Mount Mercy Academy.

Cathleen and Mike are both lifelong residents of West Seneca. Cathleen attended Saint Bonaventure Grammar School and Mike attended St John Vianney Grammar School. Both graduated in 1984, Cathleen from Mount Mercy Academy and Michael from Bishop Timon-St Jude. The couple recently celebrated their 24th wedding anniversary. They have two daughters, Molly and Brigid. Molly is a Mount Mercy graduate from the 2016 SPIRIT OF MERCY AWARD SPIRIT MERCY OF 2016 class of 2014 and is attending St Bonaventure University. Brigid is currently a senior at Mount Mercy Academy.

Cathleen is a Teacher Aide where she works with special education students in the West Seneca School District. Cathleen is the daughter of Jean Jordan Canney ’58 and the late Anthony Canney . Mike is the son of Sheila Ryan Lempko ’55 and the late Paul Lempko. Mike is a District Sales Manager at Quikrete Inc. where he has been employed for the past 19 years.

Cathleen and Mike Lempko are steady and generous volunteers. They were both raised in families who have had a long legacy and strong commitment to Mount Mercy Academy and community service. They were taught to lead by example from their families. Cathleen’s aunts Maureen Canney ’52 and Colleen Canney Lambert ’57 were both recipients of the Spirit of Mercy Award in 1989. Mike’s parents, Paul and Sheila (Ryan ’55) Lempko were honored with the Spirit of Mercy Award in 1994. In the spirit of Mother Catherine McAuley, it is fitting that the family tradition continues to pay it forward.

6 Cathleen has served as Chair of The Allendale Elementary Parent Teachers Organization where both of their daughters attended grammar school. She was also the founder of the Allendale Elementary School playground fundraising committee which led to the construction of a brand new playground facility on campus. Cathleen served in multiple roles at Allendale Elementary supporting their daughters’ education and various school projects. Since her childhood, Cathleen has been a constant presence at Mount Mercy Academy participating in alumnae events by helping her dear aunts Maureen and Colleen Canney.

Mike has also been a constant volunteer. He served as a coach at the West Seneca Youth Soccer Organization for ten years. Mike was a member of the O’Sullivan Irish Dance Academy Board of Directors where both of their daughters, Molly and Brigid, danced. In their parish community, Mike was one of the original co-founders of the Saint John Vianney Parish 5K Run which is an important fundraising event. As a Bishop Timon-St. Jude graduate, Mike has served on the Alumni Board of Directors for the past twenty years. He has also been the Co-Chair of The Bishop Timon-St. Jude Sports Hall of Fame Annual Awards Dinner.

Cathleen and Mike have been dedicated ambassadors of Mount Mercy Academy. Currently they are members of the Mount Mercy Academy Athletic Boosters Club, a recently formed organization to support the sports teams, create awareness, recruitment and advancement. Mike was instrumental in forming this organization. Cathleen and Mike have served on the Mount Mercy Academy McAuley Gala Committee as well as served as 2015 Co-Chairs for the Annual McAuley Gala fundraiser. They have been active supporters of Mount Mercy Academy events including The Taste of Mercy, Mount Mercy Meat Raffle, Mount Mercy Academy Open House and The MMA 5 K Run. Cathleen and Mike are active members of the Mount Mercy Academy Parents Association.

Cathleen and Mike truly exemplify what our community is, coming together for great causes, organizations and efforts. Mike and Cathleen are awesome community givers with a huge collective heart. Mount Mercy Academy is proud to present the Spirit of Mercy Award to Cathleen and Michael Lempko, for bringing the Spirit of Mercy to their professional, personal and family life and for their commitment and dedication to catholic education, their church, community and Mount Mercy Academy.

7 Marie Porter Cannon ’83

Marie A. Porter Cannon, Class of 1983, is receiving the Catherine McAuley Distinguished Alumna Award for her career commitment to children’s development and the well- being of children and families. Not only has Marie established herself as a leader in the Social Services field, she is also a woman who has great spiritual faith and a commitment to her family and community.

Marie started her career in early childhood development over 24 years ago where she served as the director of the first faith-based center in the city of Buffalo. From her initial start in her career to where she is now, Marie has always believed in doing the right thing no matter how challenging it is. Her mission is to ensure that the community that she serves is treated with dignity and respect.

Marie A. Cannon was named the First Deputy Commissioner of Erie County Department of Social Services in March 2014. Her responsibilities include overseeing all the department’s eligibility programs which include, Temporary Assistance, Medicaid, SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), Employment Assistance, HEAP, Domestic Violence, Day Care and Homeless Services. She has also lead several community initiatives to develop a comprehensive approach to serving people living in poverty. Her span of responsibility includes managing a 700 person staff with an associated $250 million budget. Marie previously served as the Chief Executive Officer of the Child Care Resource Network (CCRN). This agency is the designated Child Care Resource and referral agency for Erie County and oversees the Infant Toddler Institute.

Marie was the Executive Director of Holy Cross Head Start, where she assured that children from over 500 families, with limited incomes and living in Erie County, were given every opportunity to thrive and learn. She was the managing partner of a child development center for six years. She is known for her passion and advocacy for the well being of children. Her commitment and expertise in the field of Early Childhood care was recognized when she was selected by the Governor of New York State to sit on the Governor’s Children’s Cabinet Advisory Board. She has been a presenter at local, state, and national conferences. She has worked as a consultant serving the

2016 CATHERINE MCAULEY DISTINGUISHED ALUMNA AWARD DISTINGUISHED ALUMNA MCAULEY 2016 CATHERINE Department of Health and Human Services. Marie served as an Adjunct Instructor for Empire State College for New York State Children’s Program Administrator Credential. Kate Daley Dust, the Vice President of Education and Staff Development at EduKids and MMA Class of 1973 alumna, has worked with Marie on a professional basis. Kate stated: “Marie represents herself, her professional skill set and her passion to work for and with others in a way that is reflective of commitment and advocacy. She represents Mercy.”

8 Marie’s community involvement includes being a member of the Buffalo Chapter of The Links Incorporated, past President of the Buffalo and Erie County Girl Scouts, Treasurer of the New York State Head Start Association Directors’ Affiliate and has chaired and served on committees at the United Way, Homespace, West Side Promise Neighborhood and the Help Me Grow Leadership Team.

Marie is a Canisius College graduate and received a master’s degree from the University at Buffalo. She is a 2016 graduate of the Health Foundation Fellow and was a Management Fellow of the Anderson School of Business at UCLA. Marie also earned an Administrative Management Certificate from UB School of Social Work. She was the recipient of the Dorothy B. Miller Award (Early Childhood Administrator of the Year), Girl Scout Council Service Award, Family Literacy Educator of the Year Award, and was also a Business First “Forty Under 40” Award recipient. In 2015 she was named Community Advocate of the Year by Niagara University.

Marie is married to Harold Cannon Sr, “an awesome man of God” and is the proud mother of Harold Q Cannon Jr. In addition to her family, Marie has been a host of the Circle of Ruth Women’s Fellowship and is active in the Breath of Life Ministries.

Marie is grounded in her faith which has guided her life’s mission and purpose. Her commitment to those who are underserved, her spiritual nature and the dedication to her family are qualities that make Marie Porter Cannon a deserving honoree. Mount Mercy Academy is proud to bestow the honor of the Catherine McAuley Distinguished Alumna Award to Marie.

9 Dr. Lisa M. Mendonza, MD FAAFP ’89

Mount Mercy Academy is proud to recognize Dr. Lisa Mendonza who has dedicated her life to compassion, healing, respect for life and mercy.

While at Mount Mercy Lisa excelled academically and developed lifelong friendships including the affectionately named “Station Wagon Crew”. This group of close friends consisted of Lisa, Kristin Chernowski, Michele Stetter, Michelle Roemig, Amy Dickenson, Alissa Amidon and Danny Maywald, a German exchange student. The girls cruised Elmwood Avenue often stopping at their favorite spot, The Soda Bar and Pastry Shop.

Lisa was active in intramural sports including the floor hockey team, moderated by fellow honoree Mr. Bob Fix. The team was known as the Cow Tippers and Lisa was given the nickname Paisley, after the Paisley swatch watch she wore while at Mercy. The highlight of junior year was the trip to Rome with Mrs. Sengbush and Sister Mary Bendyna. Lisa still has the leather jacket purchased in her favorite city of Florence. Years later she returned to Florence and Rome while on her honeymoon with her husband David.

After graduating from Mount Mercy Academy Dr. Lisa went on to obtain a Bachelor of Science degree in biology from Canisius College and a medical degree from the University at Buffalo School of Medicine. She completed her residency in family medicine. Lisa served as chief resident at Millard Fillmore Hospital and was recognized as “Outstanding Resident” three years in a row, 1998 – 2000.

Dr. Lisa has been the recipient of many awards that recognize her accomplishments in the medical field including the Castle Connolly Top Doctors Award (2013-17). Recipients were nominated by their peers in an extensive survey process of thousands of American doctors. The Top Doctors’ have exceeded expectations in medical educations, training, hospital appointments, disciplinary histories and much more. These doctors are among the very best in their specialties and in their 2016 CATHERINE MCAULEY DISTINGUISHED ALUMNA AWARD DISTINGUISHED ALUMNA MCAULEY 2016 CATHERINE communities. Dr. Lisa’s care and compassion have also been recognized with numerous honors including being named Kenmore Mercy Hospital’s Doctor of Distinction in 2013.

In April of 2015 Dr. Lisa Mendonza was featured in Buffalo Business First “Women on the Move” recognizing her appointment to the Independent Health Board of Directors. 10 Dr. Mendonza has been practicing family medicine for fifteen years. She is currently a partner of Kenmore Family Medicine and practices hospital medicine at Kenmore Mercy Hospital. She is a fellow of the American Academy of Family Medicine and a member of the Medical Society of New York. She is a member of the Federal Bureau of Investigation Citizens’ Academy Alumni Association and previously served on the Catholic Medical Partners Board of Directors as well as the Peer Review Committee of Kenmore Mercy Hospital.

It was Dr. Lisa Mendonza’s medical training and quick action that saved the life of her dear friend Kristin Chernowski. While vacationing in July of 2015, Kristin suffered the rupture of a double brain aneurysm and it was Lisa’s heroic response that saved Kristin’s life.

Lisa is the loving daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Ronald Mendonza. She is happily married to David Mineo, Esq. and the adoring mother of twins, David Jr and Francesca.

Dr. Lisa Mendonza’s colleagues describe her as a very compassionate, understanding, dedicated and respected MD. Nurse Denise Bordas has worked with Dr. Mendonza for 11 years and shared, “What I admire most about her is she treats our patients like family and would never do or recommend anything that she wouldn’t do for her own family.”

Sister Cristel Mejia RSM who serves on the Mount Mercy Academy Board of Trustees expressed her admiration for Dr. Lisa by saying, “she is truly doing the work of Catherine McAuley everyday”.

Mount Mercy Academy is proud to bestow the Distinguished Alumna Award to Dr. Lisa Mendonza. We recognize her compassion, faith and integrity which reflect the legacy and mission of Catherine McAuley.

11 Maureen A. O’Connor Oakley ’73

Maureen (Moey) O’Connor Oakley the daughter of Joe and Maureen Browne O’Connor and the oldest of their five children was born and raised in South Buffalo, a place she will forever call home. Mount Mercy Academy is a tradition in her family: her mother Maureen the Class of 1948 , Moey 1973, her sisters Peggy ‘75 and Teresa ‘76 . Her brothers, Joey and Kevin, both now deceased, graduated from Bishop Timon High School.

Moey married Ed Oakley, fellow South Buffalonian, who recently retired from The Buffalo News after 44 years of service. They have three wonderful children, MaryKate , a current clinical psychology student at UMass Amherst, Connor, a wealth management consultant for the Bank of New York Mellon, and Nora ‘07, a first grade teacher at South Buffalo Charter School.

As the granddaughter of Irish immigrants, Moey developed deep roots and a sense of pride in her Irish heritage at an early age. She attended St. Martin of Tours grammar school and St. Thomas Aquinas, before starting high school at Mount Mercy Academy in 1969.

Moey first experienced the power of the “Circle of Mercy,” at just 14 years of age when at the end of her freshman year, her beloved mother suddenly died. Through the unwavering love and support of friends, teachers and mentors, especially Sister Sally Walz, Moey graduated from Mount Mercy Academy in 1973. Sister Sally supported Moey with faith and hope for the future, which instilled in Moey, the tools to cope and move forward to become the successful caring adult she is today.

2016 SISTER SALLY WALZ MEMORIAL AWARD MEMORIAL WALZ SALLY 2016 SISTER Despite the terrible loss of her mother, Moey exhibited courage and strength during her Mercy years. Elected to numerous leadership positions, including Student Council Vice-President, this hard-working young woman flourished at Mercy. She could always be counted on to volunteer for any committee when she wasn’t studying. Moey began working for the City of Buffalo in 1974, under the Comprehensive Em- ployment and Training Program. Through CETA, she served in various departments, including Labor Relations, the Police Academy, and the Division for Manpower Plan- ning, which handled all of the city’s federal programming.

While raising her children, Moey worked at Canisius College, and then became a Report Technician for the Buffalo Police Department. 28 years later, she is now the Community Grants Coordinator, writing and managing all of the department’s federal, state and local grants and reimbursements. Moey is grateful for the opportunity to advance and achieve success as a proud Civil Servant for the City of Buffalo. Anyone

12 who has worked with Moey, will tell you of her dogged dedication, tenacious work ethic and her consis- tent humility. She continues to pursue every opportunity to support her “second family”, the Buffalo Police Department. Her commitment is so well-known; her closest friends tease her about being a Chief!

Her achievements have not gone unnoticed. Moey has been the grateful recipient of distinguished City Service awards, including the COMBAT Program Civilian Award and Outstanding Service Awards from the Police Underwater Recovery Team and the County’s Central Police Services. Moey has been recognized for her efforts in a program connecting COPS and Kids. She is the proud recipient of several Mayor’s Awards of Merit for Exceptional Service. She was recently awarded by Mayor Byron W. Brown the Distinguished Civilian in the Buffalo Police Department, the highest recognition a civilian can receive.

Moey is the “go-to” for planning celebrations and retirements for her colleagues. She is a woman of firsts: the first through the door with food to offer comfort and support to those who have suffered a loss or a tragic event; the first in costume on Halloween to deliver treats throughout Police Headquarters and always first to deliver Christmas presents to friends and family.

Moey has an impressive commitment to her parish, Mount Mercy and the community. Moey is a Eucha- ristic Minister at Our Lady of Charity and teaches Religious Education classes to 7th and 8th graders. She frequently visits those in nursing homes and always remembers family, friends and those in need. She is a daily communicant at St. Joseph’s Cathedral, where she assists the Celebrant as needed. She can be found at Adoration at Queen of Heaven in West Seneca.

Shortly after her 1973 graduation, Moey jumped right into becoming the President of the Mount Mercy Alumnae Association. As a Mercy parent, she was an active volunteer at many PTO events, as well as post prom gatherings. Moey didn’t stop there; she continues to volunteer, for more than twenty years, at Mount Mercy’s McAuley Gala. She is the expert on how to distribute the auction items as efficiently as possible. Moey has helped organize every Class of 1973 Reunion including a recent “60 and Amazing” celebration for fellow classmates and Friends Forever! Moey has also served in various roles with the 920 Travel Club, a social club she has belonged to for over 33 years and currently serves as Club Secretary.

For 15 years, Moey was the show coordinator and speaker for Woodgate School of Irish Dancing, where she served as “Sock Mom.” Moey is a member of the Daughters of Erin. She is active in the fundraising efforts of the Buffalo Irish Center. She was one of the youngest members and active participants of the South Side Women’s Democratic Club.

Sister Sally Walz was a woman of strong faith. She had a welcoming heart and served as an angel of Mercy and loving mentor at a time in Moey’s life when she needed the support. As a young adolescent, Moey internalized Sister Sally’s values of faith and of sharing her time and talent to pay it forward to her family, her career and her Mercy community.

Moey O’Connor Oakley’s life-long personification of faith, hope, love, charity and of course, Mercy, truly makes her the ideal recipient of the Inaugural Sister Sally Walz Memorial Award.

13 Robert A. Fix

Bob Fix is a dedicated and admired educator at Mount Mercy Academy serving our school for past 31 years. His loyalty to the school earned him much respect and adoration from his colleagues and students. Mount Mercy is proud to bestow this honor of the Mercy Devotion Award to Bob.

Bob is the second oldest of 4 sons of Mary McAndrew Fix and the late Richard Fix. He attended Bishop Neumann High School where upon graduation he enlisted in the US Air Force. Later, Bob attended and graduated from Niagara University with a Bachelor of Science degree followed by attending and graduating from Canisius College with a Master of Science degree.

Before teaching, Bob worked as a Locomotive Maintenance Foreman for the Norfolk & Western Railway at Bison Yard in Buffalo. While working for the Norfolk & Western, he also worked as a substitute teacher at Bishop Neumann High School.

In the early 1980s, Bob started teaching General Science at Saint Thomas Aquinas School in South Buffalo. He later transitioned to teaching Regents Chemistry and 2016 MERCY DEVOTION AWARD DEVOTION 2016 MERCY General Chemistry at Mount Mercy Academy in 1986 and ultimately began teaching Physics and Conceptual Physics in 1995 until his retirement in 2016. While at Mount Mercy he taught Physics and Chemistry. He also taught Human Anatomy and Physiology, Sports Medicine, Human Biology, Physical Science, Earth Science Labs and served as Science Department Chairperson and Athletic Director. At Tro- caire College, he taught Prep Courses in Chemistry, Physics and Biology.

In addition to teaching, and serving as Mount Mercy’s Athletic Director, Bob coached JV and Varsity Volleyball in the late 1980s, and coached JV and Varsity Softball for about 12 years. Under his direction as coach, Mount Mercy fielded top notch softball teams in the Monsignor Martin League.

During his years of teaching, he also served 27 years in the Air Force and Air National Guard. As a member of the 107th Air Wing, he achieved the rank of Chief Master Sergeant while serving as the Wing’s Human Resource Advisor (HRA). Other positions included Base Education and Training Technician where one of his primary responsibilities was to work with airmen enrolled in the Community College of the Air Force (CCAF). He was instrumental in developing science lesson plans and serving as an instructor for the 107th Galaxy Program, a New York State counter drug program for 4th-6th grade students. He was an instructor in the Airman Leadership

14 School. Some of his military awards and decorations include: the Meritorious Service Medal, the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Air Force Achievement Medal, the New York State Medal for Meritorious Service and the New York State Long and Faithful Service Award.

His interests include running marathons, biking, and officiating high school sports. An avid runner, Bob was honored as the starter of the 2011 MMA 5K Race. He is one of the original runners in the Air Force Marathon in Dayton, Ohio and has participated in the Marine Corps Marathon in Wash- ington, D.C. His favorite events are the USAF Marathon at Wright-Patterson AFB and the Ride for Roswell which he competes in annually. He aspires to compete in a sprint triathlon sometime in the future. He is an active member of the WNY Certified Football Officials Association and the Buffalo Women’s Lacrosse Officials Organization.

Many of his former students will recall his creative nicknames for his students as well as Saturday morning review classes to prepare for the June Regents exams. With bagels and donuts, Mr. Fix en- ticed the students to these now traditional classes. If it’s a Saturday in spring, there are review classes happening at MMA. Many students credit these classes with increasing their scores in Chemistry and Physics on the Regents exams.

Many of Bob’s students went on to become scientists, doctors, nurses and pharmacists because of the direction he gave to his students in class. Whether you liked Science class or not, you found that Mr. Fix created an interactive classroom through discussion, technology and experimentation.

Mr. Fix will undoubtedly be missed at Mount Mercy and after 31 years the halls of the science wing will never be quite the same. Principal Margaret Staszak said of Bob:

“Bob Fix is a true man of Mercy. He has proven so time and time again over his 31 year tenure at MMA, and we could not have been more fortunate having had him on our faculty for only this long. In the classroom, Bob has been a gentleman and a role model to our students, who never cease to sing his praises for making them learn chemistry and physics in such an understandable way. With his quiet, unassuming nature, Bob has been an angel to Mount Mercy, making sure doors are locked at the end of the day, gently offering words of advice to new teachers, always going above and beyond anything that was asked of him. We will certainly miss him! He has earned this new phase of his life and we wish him God’s many blessings and much happiness for years to come!”

Mount Mercy Academy is proud to honor Robert Fix with the Mercy Devotion award. Bob is the ultimate pillar of integrity, earning the respect and admiration of students and colleagues over the years.

15 Sister Sally Walz ’56 Sister Sally Walz Memorial Award

Sr. Sally Walz was a 1956 graduate of Mount Mercy Academy who earned her Bachelor of Arts in History from Mount Saint Joseph College and a Master of Arts Degree in Education & Supervision from Niagara University.

Sister Sally was a Junior High School Teacher during a period of ten years and later an Elementary Administrator over a period of six years. She continued on to a Secondary Administration position at Mount Mercy Academy for eight years. Her work within the Diocese of Buffalo continued in positions as Assistant Coordinator for the Retirement Fund for the Religious, Vice President for Academic Affairs at Trocaire College and Director of Development and Alumnae at Mount Mercy Academy.

She served as the Assistant Director of Development for Sisters of Mercy – New York, Pennsylvania, Pacific West Community. Sister Sally received a Doctor of Letters Honorary Degree from Canisius College and was the first woman to receive this distinguished honor. She established the first girls’ comprehensive athletic program at Mount Mercy and, for these efforts, was later inducted into the school’s Athletic Hall of Fame. Sister has also received the Bishop Timon-St. Jude High School Judge John Hillary Award. As a member of many Committees and Boards of Directors, she has raised the awareness of women’s issues and advocated for necessary programs to help every woman become all they can be.

Sister Sally received the Catherine McAuley Distinguished Alumnae Award in 2010 for her initiatives and efforts at Trocaire College, Mount Mercy Academy, Mercy Hospital, through the Sisters of Mercy and Western New York Community.

The Sister Sally Walz Memorial Award is presented to a woman, strong in Faith, who is distinguished in her family and career, a woman who shares her talent with the Mount Mercy Academy community, a volunteer who brings that generosity of time and talent that marked Sister Sally’s life. This award is given to an alumna who, like Sister Sally, has “an expansive heart that is always welcoming and a generosity of time and talent for what needs to be done.”

We are so pleased to announce this new award named in honor of Sister Sally Walz ’56, who was a driving force behind the Mercy Honors Awards dinner. Her passion for this event was always evident through her guidance, wisdom and insistence on integrity.

16 Bonnie Kane Lockwood ’73 Mistress of Ceremonies

Bonnie Kane Lockwood, Class of 1973, has graciously accepted our request to host our Mercy Honors awards dinner. Bonnie has been a very dedicated Alumna and we are so thankful that she has joined our team to help in honoring such a wonderful group of people.

Bonnie is a Mount Mercy Academy Distinguished Alumna, receiving the award in 2012. She followed in the footsteps of her parents, Donald and Patricia Kane ’47, in her commitment to community service. Her mother was a Spirit of Mercy recipient in 1989 and a Distinguished Alumna awardee in 2001.

Bonnie has worked and volunteered in the fields of public service, health care, community betterment and civic pride for more than 35 years. Bonnie holds a degree in X-Ray Technology from Trocaire College and a Bachelor’s degree in Media Communication from Medaille College.

As the first woman elected South District Councilmember, Bonnie served from 1994-1998. She initiated the SOS (Sweep Our Streets) clean-up campaign, developed senior housing at Seneca and Cazenovia Streets, implemented the Cazenovia Park Master Plan, including installation of pedestrian pathways and fought for the development of Union Ship Canal as a commercial and recreational corridor. Prior to her election, Bonnie served as legislative assistant to then Councilman Brian Higgins for six years working directly with constituents to resolve problems and address concerns.

In 1998, she joined the city administration in the Department of Strategic Planning working on grants and resource management. Bonnie served as the city point person for the development of the award-winning Queen City Hub: A Regional Action Plan for Downtown Buffalo, hosted a monthly public access show promoting the benefits of the Buffalo-Lackawanna Renewal Community, and served on the Erie County Commission on Homelessness. She was Project Manager of the Mayor’s Medical Corridor Task Force which led to the establishment of the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus.

Following the election of Brian Higgins to Congress, she enthusiastically rejoined his staff in 2005. Bonnie works with municipal leaders, businesses, non-profits and residents on project developments, advocacy, funding requests and grant opportunities as Director of Special Projects. She served as one of the Congressman’s principal staffers in his historic and successful battle to secure a $279 million settlement from the New York Power Authority which is now funding the revitalization of Buffalo’s waterfront.

Bonnie has been a member of the Medaille College Alumni Board, South Buffalo Community Table Annual Get-Together, the Homeless Alliance of Western New York and Working for Downtown. She is a past president of the St. Thomas Aquinas Rosary-Altar Society and also served as a board member of the Buffalo Museum of Science, Goodwill Industries, the Franciscan Center and Mercy League of Mercy Hospital. Bonnie’s community service has received recognition from the Franciscan Center, the Timothy Nightengale Veterans Post, Friends of the Buffalo River and Mercy Hospital. Her voice is featured on the CD recording of “Peace Prints”, a song written to honor the memory of Sister Karen Klimczak and was a member of “Broadway to Buffalo” and the St. Thomas Aquinas Choir.

Bonnie takes great pride in her family, her husband of 35 years John Lockwood, and their two children, Megan ’01 ( Jason) Reid and son Brian.

We are grateful to have Bonnie return as a past honoree and now as our Mistress of Ceremonies for Mercy Honors this year. Her loyalty and support as an Alumna and member of our community are proof that the Circle of Mercy truly is timeless. Thank you Bonnie! 17 PAST RECIPIENTS Catherine McAuley Distinguished Alumna Award

2000 2009 Maureen Leary Fecio ’66 Marianne Matuzic Myles ’71 Nancy Wutz Ware ’74 Julia Hall ’81 Mary Bendyna, RSM ’79 2001 Patricia Doyle Kane ’47* 2010 Kathleen Grisanti Lillis, M.D. ’78 Sharon Green ’69 Kathleen Kaczmarek Mehltretter, Esq. ’72 Marguerite C. McDonald Garrison ’77 Elizabeth Carey Ras ’87 2002 Sally Walz, RSM ’56* Catherine M. Gogan, D.D.S. ’77 Marylouise Nanna, Hon. ’55 2011 MaryLynn Ryan ’79 Mary M. McCafferty ’80 Margaret A. O’Donnell, RSM ’48 2003 Denise Mahoney Dunford ’71 2012 Margaret Hempling McGlynn ’77 Bonnie Kane Lockwood ’73 Patricia A. Moore ’70 Tracy O’Grady ’85

2004 2013 Kathleen Daley Dust ’73 Mary Kelleher Crabtree ’80 Joan Klipfel Lillis ’53 Nancy Hoff, RSM ’61 Assunta Campanile Ventresca ’68 Molly McBride Scala ’80

2005 2014 Cheryl Meyers Buth ’84 Margaret Whalen Keane ’67 Kathleen Pace Murpy, Ph.D. ’77 Sally Maloney, RSM ’53 Honorable Mary F. Weir ’79 Carol J. Filsinger Voelker, Ph.D., Ed.D. ’48 2015 2006 Dr. Kate M. Callahan ’70 Patricia A. Farrell ’81 Ann Muldoon Galli, PMP ’76 Marilynn Mahoney Fleckenstein, Ph.D. ’61 Sheila Walsh, RSM ’56 Patricia Meegan Kubanet ’74

2007 Mercy Devotion Award Margaret Flanagan Barrett ’73 Mary Beth Hess Farruggio ’69 2011 Pamela M. Krawczyk ’77 Jean M. Campbell Margaret Quinn Popiolkowski ’69 2012 2008 Catherine Adair Luhr Major Madonna M. Higgins, D.V.M., M.V.P.H. ’78 Eileen Kraus Scott ’68 Patricia Lyons Van Dyke ’47 Mercy Charism Award 2012 Anne McGillicuddy Nancy Preskop David Zapfel

18 PAST RECIPIENTS Spirit of Mercy Award

1988 1998 2012 Robert H. Chambers Peggy Conlon, RSM John Glose Betty A. Kane ’49 Msgr. David M. Lee Barbara A. Ryan ’68 Mary Clare Powers, RSM* Denise McKenzie ’68 2013 1989 2000 Eleanor Donovan Gilson ’78 Maureen A. Canney ’52 Kathleen V. Collins ’68 Maureen Myers ’71 Mabel Dimmers ’15* Marion V. Grimes Gary & Linda Tatu Patricia Doyle Kane ’47* Colleen E. Lambert ’57* 2001 2014 Mary Alice Muldoon ’30* Margaret Victori Bogucki ’77 Erik T. Bohen Joan Sherry, RSM Mary Hembrow Snyder, Ph.D 1990 Thomas G. Sellers William E. Gangloff 2002 Kathleen G. Kearns ’53 Nancy A. Hartung ’53* 2015 Mary Peter Wiles, RSM ’23* Thomas J. Sullivan Ellen E. Koessler John and Debbie Martin 1991 2003 Thomas P. McDonnell Rev. John O’Connor* Fred Kirisits Arlene McKenna Rola ’48* Frances Stearns Smith ’40* Heather A. Schwabl ’91* 2004 1992 Margaret Ann Coughlin ’59* Rev. Joseph Bayne, OFM Conv. Marianne Rathbun Russo ’51 Sheila Kimmitt, RSM ’33* Jean Marie Stackpoole 2005 Kathryn C. Neeson ’64 1993 Rev. William R. Bigelow Rev. John Alderson, OFM Martin & Mary Catherine 2006 Wilson Kennedy ’64 Donna M. Carroll ’67 Richard & Joan Pfeiffer Rev. John J. Mattimore, SJ 1994 2007 M. Natalie Bailey, RSM* Mary Monica Riordan, RSM ’42* Paul* & Sheila Lempko ’55 Rev. Msgr. Dino Lorenzetti 2008 1995 Anne Elizabeth Courtney ’43 Catherine M. Kanick, RSM ’54 M. Victorine Collins, RSM ’37* William I. Cotter 2009 Henry & Patricia Demicke ’56 Joanne M. Schwartzott ’54 1996 Deanna Kwiatkowski Russo ’93 Meghan Barrett Periera ’96 2010 M. Annunciata Kelleher, RSM ’43* Jane Krawczyk Dr. Linda Perrone Rooney ’63 Patricia Plunkett ’48 2011 1997 Cathleen Cronin Fitzgerald ’75 Jane A. Bigelow ’62 Frank Lewandowski M. Celeste O’Bryan, RSM Melissa A. Prorok

19 * deceased PATRONS Congratulations to All Our Honorees

MARCY MAZGAJ-BURKETT `89 TO MOEY - LOVE, FRIENDS FOREVER CHRISTIE (GANNON) QUINN `89 ERIK T. BOHEN ANNE MARIE KUWIK - CLASS OF 1984 ROBIN M. RUSH (`84) PATRICIA MALONEY CONNOLLY `63 THOMAS J. SULLIVAN MARY LOU LETINA LAND `99 SHARON GREEN `69 MARY GREGOIRE REALI 1973 THE DIGGINS FAMILY JOHN E. CURTAIN DAVID MINEO JOSEPHINE ARROYO `84 KOGLER ROYSTON MENDONZA PATRICIA A. BURNS MARGARET O’CONNOR `75

Thank you to all those individuals who made additional donations and wish to remain anonymous. All proceeds from this evening’s event are directed to the Alumnae Scholarship Fund, which is a full four-year scholarship.

20 Congratulations to All Our Honorees

Thank you to our patrons for the support of this event.

21 Congratulations to our Mount Mercy Academy Alumnae honored today

Anita Durkin Crotty `63 Marie Porter Cannon `83 Cathleen (Canney `84) Lempko and her husband Michael Lempko Dr. Lisa M. Mendonza, MD FAAFP `89 Maureen “Moey” (O’Connor `73) Oakley

Congratulations to Mercy’s beloved

Robert “Bob” Fix Congratulations on your well-deserved retirement! You serve as an inspiration to us all!

MOUNT MERCY ACADEMY ALUMNAE ASSOCIATION President Peggy Flanagan Barrett ’73 Vice President Michele Donohue Nostrant ’86 Treasurer Margaret Whalen Brady ’99

22 23 “A teacher affects eternity. He can never tell where his influence stops.” -Henry Brooks Adams

Congratulations, Bob, on your devotion to Mercy and your profession. Your friend and colleague, Paulette Gaske

CONGRATULATIONS TO MARIE PORTER CANNON `83 ON THIS WELL DESERVED HONOR!

-JOHN CURTAIN

Congratulations to all of the honorees – your light shines for all of the good things you have accomplished. Thank you for keeping the Mercy traditions alive! Remembering Sister Sally Walz with love and affection – she, too, would be so proud of all of you for what you do and will continue to do!

Moey O’Connor Oakley ’73

Congratulations to the wonderful honorees!

2016-17 BOARD OF TRUSTEES Chair Kathleen Mehltretter ’72 Vice Chair Michael C. LaFever, Ed.D Treasurer Catherine M. Gogan DDS ’77 Edward Bratko Margaret Connors ’66 Margaret M. Cronin ’78 Peggy Gorman, RSM ’60 Dr. Catherine Gogan ’77 Anthony Kubera Kathleen Linhardt ’88 Daniel J. Marren, Esq. Cristel Mejia, RSM Juliann Cleary Peters ’60 Emily M. Smaldino ’04 Margaret Staszak ’75 John A. Vecchio

25 CatholicCatholic Medical Medical Partners Partners ProudlyProudly Congratulates Congratulates LisaLisa Mendonza, Mendonza, MD,MD, FAAFPFAAFP

RecipientRecipient ofof thethe CatherineCatherine McAuley McAuley Distinguished Alumna Award. Distinguished Alumna Award

26 27 Congratulations Anita

You are a woman of mercy A champion of justice and peace A loving wife, mother, and grandmother A friend and supporter of all

We love you

Your loving family

“Do not fear offending anyone. Speak as your mind directs and always act with more courage when the “mammon of unrighteousness” is in question.” Catherine McAuley

R1 Sports Mgnt LLC 6506 East Quaker Street, Mt. Mercy Class of 1984 R1 Sports Mgnt founding member Cheryl Meyers Buth is a Orchard Park trial lawyer and sports agent recently certified by the 716-239-0384 National Basketball Players Association. [email protected] CON GRATULATIONS TO FELLOW 1984 CLASS MEMBER CATHLEEN (CANNEY) LEMPKO & HER HUSBAND MICHAEL AS 2016 SPIRIT OF MERCY HONOREES. THEIR VOLUNTEER WORK ON BEHALF OF MT. MERCY IS TRULY INSPIRING!

**CONGRATULATIONS**

Lisa M. Mendonza, M.D.

We are so proud of you!

Kenmore Family Medicine, LLP 2914 Elmwood Avenue Kenmore, NY 14217 (716) 875-6700

Dr. Paul Campana, Dr. Jonathan Kessler, Dr. Lisa Mendonza ,Dr. David Silverstein, Dr. David Pfalzer, Lynda Erick, FNP & Patricia Champlin, ANP

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

Accepts most insurance plans

30 Best Wishes to Anita Durkin Crotty ’63 Sister Antoinette's homeroom congratulates you!!

Congratulations to all the Honorees Anita Durkin Crotty `63 Marie Porter Cannon `83 Cathleen (Canney `84) and Michael Lempko Dr. Lisa M. Mendonza, MD FAAFP `89 Maureen “Moey” (O’Connor `73) Oakley Robert “Bob” Fix

Thank you for being positive, enthusiastic and dedicated role models for our girls and our whole community.

Margaret M. Cronin ’78, President Margaret Staszak ’75, Principal The faculty and staff of Mount Mercy Academy

Mount Mercy Academy Christopher P. Scanlon Buffalo Common Council South District 1401 City Hall 716-851-5169 [email protected] A sponsored ministry of the Sisters of Mercy Congratulations to the honorees of the 2016 Mercy Honors Awards Dinner. You all have a tremendous impact on Mt. Mercy and the

Congratulations to all of the honorees on this community as a whole. special honor! We are grateful for your service!

Christopher P. Scanlon Buffalo Common Council South District 1401 City Hall 716-851-5169 [email protected]

Congratulations to the honorees of the 2016 Mercy Honors Awards Dinner. You all have a tremendous impact on Mt. Mercy and the community as a whole. We are grateful for your service!

33 Congratulations to Lisa Mendonza, MD

Love, David, Francesca and David, Jr

Fr. Bryan Zielenieski

and the parishioners of

Our Lady of Charity Parish

Congratulate

Moey Oakley

On the reception of the Sister Sally Walz Memorial Award.

34 35 “I have always believed that women are not victims, we are agents of change, we are drivers of progress, we are makers of peace—all we need is a fighting chance.” Hillary Rodham Clinton (Next President of the United States of America) at the Women in the World Summit, 2013.

Mom/Grandma – You have always stood up for what you believe in and have taught us all that women can do anything and be anything. Your commitment and dedication to your family, your students and the Mercy Community is remarkable. Thank you for being a role model for so many and congratulations on this well- deserved honor! Keep up the great work! We love you! Love, Meghan, Kevin, Keira, Rory and Colleen

36 “I have always believed that women are not victims, we are agents of change, we are drivers of progress, we are makers of peace—all we need is a fighting chance.” Hillary Rodham Clinton (Next President of the United States of America) at the Women in the World Summit, 2013.

farrellfinancialllc.com | [email protected]

37 SAVE THE DATE! Events at Mount Mercy Academy

Alumnae Reunion Celebrating Class Years ending in “6” & “1” Saturday, November 26th at the Tewksbury Lodge | 7:00-10:00 | $60 pp

Breakfast with Santa Saturday, December 17th at MMA

Meat Raffle Saturday, January 14th at MMA

Alumnae Gift Gathering Party Saturday, February 4th 11:00am | ALL ALUMNAE WELCOME! | @ Curly’s

Cabin Fever Happy Hour Friday, March 3rd Location TBD

McAuley Gala - Coming April 8th!

Annual Memorial Mass Saturday, May 20th Mercy Center Chapel

MMA 5K Race Friday, June 9th | Caz Park | Mercy Grotto

3837 Congratlations to all honorees. Your accomplishments have made a difference in many lives.

Special tribute to Moey “O” Oakley, the first recipient of the Sister Sally Walz Memorial Award. Sister Sally would agree, your hard work, perserverance and dedicated efforts to Mount Mercy Academy, parish life and strengthening the community makes you the perfect recipient.

Mary Alice `51, Anne `61 and Bill Walz

3839 Mike and Cathy - Congratulations on this well deserved honor and wonderful achievement!

We are so proud of you!

Love, Mom, Mark, Marlene, Greg, Lisa, Dave, Kerri, Mary & Linda, Terry, Peggy and Matt Connors

Congratulations to Mike and Cathy Canney `84 Lempko on this wonderful award!

Maureen Canney `52

40 Congratulations to my friend Anita Durkin `63 Crotty and to all of the honorees on this joyous award.

- Fr. Richard “Duke” Zajac

To Anita Durkin `63 Crotty... You have been an integral part of Mount Mercy Academy’s success and legacy. Your time, effort, dedication and strong will feed your loyalty to this school, and Mount Mercy Academy is lucky to have you on our side!

-The 3rd Floor Staff at Mount Mercy Academy

41 Tracy McCormick `84, Owner 1156 Abbott Rd. | Buffalo, NY 14220 716-479-4181

Congratulations to all the honorees. Wish I could be there to celebrate with you tonight. -Kathy McNaughton Glavey `61

Congratulations to all of this year’s Mercy Honors Honorees!

We are all so proud of your accomplishments and what you do forthe community!

-Sharon Griffin

42 Congratulations Moey on being the first recipient of the Sister Sally Walz Memorial Award. Your dedication to not only the BPD but also to your community is an inspiration. You truly deserve this honor and they could not have picked a better person. We are lucky to have such a “salty fireball”

as our co-worker and friend. -Your BPD Family

43 The 920 Travel Club salutes our own “behind the scenes” coordinator as the recipient of the first Sister Sally Walz Memorial Award... MOEY OAKLEY

“Woman of Mercy. Woman of Faith.”

Congratulations From: PJ, Mary, Peggy, Terry, Mary Anne, Debbie, Gerry, Paula, Fitz, Jim, Cheryl, Jeanne, Kevin, Jim, Meg, Mike, JoAnne, Pattie, Dave, Kate, Wes, Bonnie, and Locks.

Congratulations to Marie Porter Cannon!

Your commitment to children and the entire community is inspiring!

-Your Friends from the Class of `83

44 Congratulations to all of the honorees, especially our own Boosters, Cathy and Mike Lempko! FROM...

Mount Mercy Academy ATHLETIC BOOSTERS

The 2016-2017 Athletic Boosters: Bob Hughes, Vin Bamrick, Chris McKeone, Mike Lempko, John Hillery, Tom English Marge Ashe & Gerard Green

The Athletic Boosters have raised money for the following:

Boosters paid for part of Cross Country Team uniforms. Boosters purchased golf towels and golf counters for the Golf Team Boosters purchased two benches for Soccer teams’ field Boosters purchased six coaches clip boards for the following coaches: Soccer, Volleyball and Basketball Boosters purchased Mount Mercy Polo shirts for Fall team coaches.

45 A big thank you and congratulations to Cathy and Mike Lempko! You both have been so dedicated to Mount Mercy Academy’s events, we couldn’t ask for more dedicated MMA parents! Whether it’s making Gala centerpieces, or bartending at almost every event, you two are always ready to go above and beyond what is asked. You are such valued memebers of the Mercy family and we are so grateful! Congratulations! You deserve it! -Your Friends on the 3rd Floor @ MMA

Congratulations Michael and Cathleen Lempko

for a well-deserved honor! from The Dental Group, PC

3176 Abbott Road Orchard Park, NY 14127 Catherine M. Gogan, DDS, MS

46 Congratulations BOB FIX! You have been such a staple at Mount Mercy Academy over the years and have impacted so many lives through the art of teaching. Your gifts have inspired so many. We hope you enjoy your retirement and know that your legacy lives on at Mount Mercy Academy. Thank you for your dedication and loyalty to MMA over the years! We love you Bob!

-Your Friends, Faculty & Staff @ MMA

TO MOEY... Our “Checkout Manager” Thank you for always supporting MMA and the McAuley Gala. You have been such a reliable volunteer and we are so grateful for your unending dedication to the McAuley Gala and it’s success. You play such an integral role in the Academy’s Gala we can’t thank you enough! Your spirit and loyalty are to be admired! THANK YOU! Sincerely, Leanne Maloney `05 and Tina (Scarpello `91) Webster 47 Congratulations to all of the worthy recipients! God Bless you!

Rev. William R. Bigelow Col (Ret.) Jane A. Bigelow (Class of 1962)

48 Congratulations to all the recipients of this very prestigious award! John & Debbie Martin

Congratulations to all of the honorees! Thank you for your hard work and dedication to the community! -Donna Carroll

49 MISSION STATEMENT

Mount Mercy Academy, a distinctly Catholic college-preparatory high school, is dedicated to educating young women for academic excellence, compassionate service, Christian leadership, global awareness and life-long learning. Rooted in Catherine McAuley’s vision for women and those who are poor, Mount Mercy affirms the uniqueness and dignity of individuals and fosters faith with a commitment to the challenges of building a just society.