Providing a challenging, college-preparatory curriculum for young women over three centuries.
Student Spotlight Archive
Laura Schneider (2012) – Putting the PEP into life at MND
Senior Laura Schneider loves being at MND and truly enjoys getting involved! She is a kind, patient, caring, extremely funny, and multi-talented. MND is blessed to have her share her gifts with our community. Let’s learn more about this amazing young woman!
MND: What activities are you involved in at MND?
LS: During my years at MND I have played basketball and soccer. During my senior year I was captain of the basketball team! I was recently a Kairos leader and am very involved in GAA (Girls Athletic Association.) A few months ago I was honored to receive Student of the Month for having class spirit!
MND: What are some of the things you have been doing out of school?
LS: I play rec soccer, and I love working out. I am getting ready for my summer work at a camp called "Fun in the Sun" for kids ages 3 - 12. I am very close to my family - my parents are my best friends and we enjoying hanging out. My younger brother Matthew is an amazing guitar player and singer, so I spend time on weekends going to listen to him play. I also love visiting people at the Kidd Center where I spend time with some amazing people who happen to have disabilities.
MND: What are some of your favorite MND memories?
LS: I LOVE every single MND pep rally and would say this is my single favorite memory...but there are so many more. I also loved being a retreat leader, helping my classmates to see how beautiful they truly are and to be a partner in helping them get closer to God.
MND: Any thoughts about what next year will hold for you?
LS: Yes. Next year I am planning on majoring in education and minoring in communications. I am hoping to work with people with disabilities.
MND: Any advice to potential MND students?
LS: Take every opportunity you are given these next four years and embrace them with an open heart. Go out of your comfort zone, and never shy away from who you truly are. God only made one of you for a reason, because you are unique and loved for who you are and no one can ever take that away from you.
MND: How has MND helped prepare you to be successful?
LS: By building my confidence to know my abilities. I have discovered my strengths and weaknesses at MND and now I have a better understanding how I should approach not only college, but my day-to-day life.
MND: Why do you love your school?
LS:The MND community is neverending. You will make friendships here with the most amazing people that will last a lifetime. And you could say that about any school, but I honestly believe the people that come out of MND are beautiful inside and out and are successful in whatever they do.
Thanks, Laura, for showing us how to be kind, generous and spirited!
The MND community loves you and will miss you next year.
Kyra Jones (2012) – Brightening the Lives of many at MND
Senior Kyra Jones is one of the happiest, friendliest, and dare we say, most energetic girls at MND. She is always there to make people smile, brightening the day for many students. She is also a good friend, and is always there to help others in need. Read more about this wonderful young woman and how she takes advantage of the opportunity she has been given at MND.
MND: What activities are you involved in at MND?
KJ: I am the Varsity Basketball Manager, I’m very involved in Culture Awareness Team, and I’m also very active in Mount Notre Dame's Theatre Program.
MND: What is one of the most recent things you have been doing out of school?
KJ: Recently I have been working on creating a scavenger hunt for Parky’s Farm, and this is a part of my Senior Capstone project.
MND: What is your favorite MND memory?
KJ: That is actually a very hard question for me to answer. I know that sounds weird, but everything that happens at MND happens to be my favorite - from retreats to pep rallys, state games to our unforgettable Christmas programs. If you make the most of your MND experience, it’s hard to find a favorite moment!
MND: Any advices to potential MND students?
KJ: Make the most out of your high school experience. If that’s getting involved in clubs, sports or theater, do as much as you can handle. I say this because MND has so much to offer, it’s so diverse, and you will always find somewhere you can fit. But always be sure to focus on your academics as well. Stay very organized, keep on top of things, and always remember that the teachers are always there for you when you need. We have a great staff so use them well - they are great resources.
MND: How has MND helped prepare you to be successful?
KJ: By pushing me to my full potential! Everyone saw something different in me and helped me become the better person that I am today. MND has taught me the characteristics of an empowered young woman and also taught me to "live just and just live" and to "never lose heart". MND has provided me with so many awesome opportunities that helped me succeed.
MND: Why do you love your school?
KJ: I love MND for three reasons. First, for the whole staff who does everything in their power to make you MND experience the best it can be. Next, the students - there isn’t one student in the whole school that isn’t friendly. Coming to a school where everyone likes everyone is a great feeling. Finally, because no matter who you are you, make an impact on everyone no matter how big or small. They will always remember you. To know that even when you are gone, students and teachers will remember you means a lot. No matter how long I’m gone from MND, I will always feel a part of the MND community. And that I love!
Thanks, Kyra, for showing us how to truly live and appreciate the opportunities we are all given. You have left your mark - you will NOT be forgotten!
Shelby Shepard (2012) – Making the Most of Her Amazing Talents
Senior Shelby Shepard has been a star of MND’s stage since the summer going into her freshman year. Musical theatre is most definitely her passion and it’s something Shelby plans to pursue in college and later as a career, but it’s also the medium through which she serves others. Read on to see how Shelby puts her talents to good use.
MND: Tell us a little bit about you and what you are passionate about.
SS: I am actively involved with MND’s Theatre Program. I am also Co-President of Medicine Show which is a performance troupe that promotes a substance-free lifestyle among teens. I’m also an MND Ambassador. Outside of school, I focus heavily on expanding and developing my talents with theatre. I recently got my first professional show with The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati.
MND: Tell us a little bit about your most recent success.
SS: My Capstone Project included organizing a benefit concert through an organization associated with Children’s Hospital called Josh Cares. They help sick children whose parents are not able to be with them at Children’s every day.
MND: How has MND prepared you for success?
SS: MND has taught me to never give up on the goals I have set for myself. MND has given me the opportunity to succeed at what I love most, while challenging me so I’m prepared for what lies ahead. My teachers truly care about what I do, and they will help me in any way possible so I can achieve my goals. I’ve also learned that what I put into something is what I will get out of it.
MND: Why do you love MND?
SS: I truly feel that I have grown as a person during my time at MND. I have met so many people that I have changed me for the better, and I wouldn’t trade that for anything. I have come to believe more in myself and I am stronger than I was four years ago.
MND: What’s your favorite MND memory?
SS: My favorite MND memory is the Senior Walk-Thru each year. It’s so bittersweet to watch the seniors walk the halls – hugging friends and teachers and saying good-bye to MND. As I have gone through each year, I’ve realized that my time is coming closer and closer. It will be such a sad day for me to say the least!
MND: What piece of advice would you pass along to an incoming freshman?
SS: Come to MND with an open mind and never give up. I have lived by this during my time at MND. There is a right path for you, so never neglect looking for that.
Thanks, Shelby, for sharing your many gifts and talents with the MND community these past four years. We look forward to hearing great things about you as you share your gift with the world!
Taylor McMurry (2012) – Amazing Talent, Freedom Fighter
Senior Taylor McMurry is a triple-triple threat! Not only does she sing, dance and act with MNDTheatre, but she is also a dedicated member of the cross country team and feels called to serve through her work with non-profits and as a Mount Notre Dame student ambassador.
MND: Tell us a little bit about you and what you are passionate about.
TM: I am pretty passionate about helping others. I am the Student Chair for Room to Read – an organization that helps educate children in other countries. I am also on the Student Advisory Board for the Frederick Douglass Family Foundation which strives to end modern-day slavery. I also really love singing, dancing and performing with MNDTheatre. I also LOVE my job at Smashburger. I am quite busy, but I love it!
MND: How has MND prepared you for success?
TM: MND gave me a second chance in life. My teachers and the community here have taught me to never give up and to keep striving for the best. I definitely feel prepared for college!
MND: Why do you love MND?
TM: I love MND because the people that work and go to school here truly care for each other. We are all a family. I love that I don’t feel like I just go to school here, but I am in my second home. The friends I’ve made here will last a lifetime!
MND: What’s your favorite MND memory?
TM: Performing in Sweet Charity this past fall and hanging out with all of my MNDTheatre friends.
MND: What piece of advice would you pass along to an incoming freshman?
TM: Give your best effort in high school. If you put your best foot forward, you will have an amazing high school experience!
Thanks, Taylor, for sharing your many gifts and talents with the MND community! We are glad you came back to MND and look forward to watching you on your amazing journey through life!
Shae Douglass (2012) – Leading by Serving Others
MND Senior Shae Douglas truly leads by serving. Read more to find out what organizations get her excited and why she always does her homework right away!
MND: Tell us a little bit about your most recent successes.
SD: One of my biggest successes is all the work I’ve done with UGive and City Gospel Mission. For City Gospel, I have planned benefit concerts, coat and CD drives. I spend my Saturday mornings volunteering at their homeless shelter, serving the homeless and playing games with children. My favorite part of working with City Gospel Mission is playing cards with the residents. We always play games I have never heard of, but they are always willing to teach me.
The rest of my success has come through MND. MND really taught me how to be an empowered young women by inspiring me to lead my peers. At MND, I’ve am a member of our Youth Philanthropy Council’s Executive Board. Being a member of YPC for three years, and now a leader, has taught me about how our society works, non-profit agencies serve the needs of others. It has also taught me alot about myself and helped me develop my leadership skills. Participating in YPC, I have been able to help determine the best agencies to receive over $20,000 in grant monies during my time at MND. The experiences I get in return are far more valuable than the annual $5,000 we grant each year.
MND: What’s your advice to a potential MND student?
SD: I would tell a potential MND to come to MND and to join Youth Philanthropy Council! I may be biased, but the program is truly unique and is a great starting point for leadership opportunities. If not YPC, simply get involved! MND sports are a strong commitment that teaches athletes the importance of handling multiple responsibilities - school and sports. These two things, leadership and the ability to manage my time are attributes that have helped be through the stresses of college and will help me in my future college years.
MND: How did MND position you for success?
SD: MND gave me the opportunity to be successful by providing me with chance after chance to step up amongst my peers as a leader. MND has something for everyone, and if you don’t find your niche at first, chances are your friends have great ideas for you to get involved. MND has also prepared me for success by offering teachers whose first priority is their students. MND teachers never forget you, or your talents, even if they taught you for only one year. MND teachers specialize in helping their students applying their qualities in giving to the entire school community.
MND: Why do you love MND?
SD: Reasons why I love MND? Well...
First, the MND Community. If I haven’t said it enough, the teachers at MND are the best. And all the students are so friendly and nice that you’re able to make best friends immediately, and by the time you leave, you’re able to graduate with a class of sisters.
Second, MND teachers take their students seriously. Over my past four years, I’ve seen teachers and administrators really listen to the students. The faculty doesn’t pretend to be in high school anymore, so when it comes to being too stressed or overworked, teachers always work with students to help us get the most out of the class they teach.
Third, I would be lying if I didn’t say that one of the best parts of MND is the uniform. It’s probably not the expected answer but the uniform makes it so easy to get extra sleep, not have to worry about being judged, and create a common factor with all of the MND students making it really easy to connect with one another.
Thanks, Shae, for sharing your many gifts and talents with the MND community...including your positive energy and awesome sense of humor!
Keara Saud (2012) – A Balanced and Well-Rounded Leader
MND Senior Keara Saud is a shining example of a balanced and well-rounded student. Not only is she a strong student who is involved in no less than ten clubs at Mount Notre Dame (and holds leadership positions in many of them), she also makes the time to pursue a passion outside of school – Irish Dancing. We caught up with Keara to find out what makes MND the right place to be for her.
MND: Hi Keara! As a senior who is now looking at the next chapter in your life, tell us how MND positioned you for success.
KS: MND offers so many challenging courses. I know that my MND experience will help me in college and later in my career. I plan to go into chemical engineering. MND’s AP science courses and the engineering classes are not only preparing me for my major, but are also challenging me to think differently.
MND: What’s your advice to 8th graders making their high school decision?
KS: Don’t choose a school based on where your friends are going; you’re going to make so many new friends wherever you go. Find a school where you feel like you belong and are comfortable, and then get involved!
MND: Keara, tell us about some of the ways you have jumped into life at MND over the last four years.
KS: MND offers so many great clubs! Getting involved is a great way to meet people and find your niche. This year, I am President of Mu Alpha Theta (Math Club) and VP of NHS. I’m also in Spanish Club, Science Club, Respect for Life Club, Leadership Council, Adopt-a-Sister, MND Ambassadors, Cougar Pride and Unified for UNIFAT.
MND: Wow – you are busy! Do you have time for any fun outside of MND?
KS: Outside of school, I play piano and Irish dance for McGing Irish Dancers. I’ve been Irish dancing for 12 years now and it is a huge part of my life. I dance almost every day. I also go back to my grade school (St. Margaret of York) once a week to help out with their Math Counts Program.
MND: What’s your favorite MND memory?
KS: Last year, the faculty and staff put together a flash mob during one of our pep rallies. It was so fun and so unexpected and was a great way to bring the whole MND community together!
Caroline Ray (2012) – Advocating for those without a Voice
Senior Caroline Ray has been a busy member of the MND community from the beginning of her sophmore year, when she moved to Cincinnati and enrolled at MND. She learned early on that you should get involved and try new things because the experiences of high school can help you later in life. What an inspirational message from a very inspiring young woman!
Caroline has taken this message to heart by becoming involved in activities ranging from the tennis team, an MND Ambassador and Adopt-a-Sis; to Youth Philanthropy Council, JustJava Coffee Shop, Unified 4 UNIFAT and the National Honor Society. The activity that has been most influential in her life has been volunteering on Saturdays at Over-the-Rhine Community Housing (OTRCH) with Cougars for Affordable Simple Housing (CASH). Below, Caroline tells us more about her experiences with CASH and how MND has helped her.
MND: Tell us a little bit about your most recent success.
CR: I recently finished my Capstone Project, working with Over-the-Rhine Community Housing and Youth Works. Youth Works is a national organization that supports students who dedicate a week of their summer to community service. I applied for and received a grant from MND’s Youth Philanthropy Council to purchase flowers and potting soil and used the supplies to fill existing window boxes on East Clifton Avenue in Over-the-Rhine with the help of Youth Works and local kids.
MND: How did MND position you for success?
CR: MND has provided me with a variety of school clubs and service projects which help me figure out what my strengths and weaknesses are and what paths in life I am most interested in taking.
MND: What is your favorite MND memory?
CR: I love seeing each senior class do their walk-thru at the end of the year. It makes me realize how short our four years at MND really are.
MND: What would be your advice to an incoming freshman?
CR: Use the resources that MND provides to your advantage, get involved early, make the most of high school while you’re in it, and most of all try new things…because you’ll never know what experience will give you the foundation for all that you’re meant to do.
MND: Why do you love MND?
CR: I love MND because it cares about every student individually and provides each one of them with exactly what they need if they look for it.
Thanks Caroline, for being an awesome member of the MND family and for being one of the many warm, welcoming people that make our community so special. Your leadership with programs like JustJava on Friday mornings warms our hearts as well as our souls.
Jaci Damon (2012) – Celebrates the Uniqueness of each Person
Jaci Damon has been a good friend not only to her peers at MND but also to her family. One of the reasons that she loves MND is because “every person at MND is unique, and I love to see that there aren’t many cliques. People from different groups with interests all interact with each other.” Jaci lives out this mission by supporting her siblings with their interests, being a part of the Spanish Exchange Program, volunteering at Animal Friends Humane Society and Su Casa and teaching Vacation Bible School over the summer.
Below Jaci describes more about the experiences she has had at MND and how they have shaped the young woman she’s become.
MND: What are some of the activities you are involved in at MND?
JD: Cross Country, Ambassadors (Co-Vice President), Youth Philanthropy Council (group leader)
MND: What are some of the activities you do outside of MND?
JD: For the last two years I have worked at Kings Island as a photographer at the front entrance of the park. I am very involved in my church, I love attending my youth group meetings and going on service outings.
MND: How has MND positioned you for success?
JD: MND has allowed me to challenge myself by taking harder courses and empowering me to be the best I can be, all while being myself and doing things that I’m interested in and helping me through the to the other side if I get caught in the middle.
MND: What advice would you give to a potential MND student?
JD: Get involved with any clubs that may interest you and be open to trying new things. You never know what you may end up loving – it may be the last thing you ever thought you might enjoy, but that could be the thing that helps define who you are or where you meet the friends that will become your sisters.
MND: What is your favorite MND memory?
JD: My favorite memory is when I participated in the Spanish Exchange Program during my sophomore year and I lived with my Spanish host family for 5 weeks in Zaragoza, Spain. It was a great experience for me. I learned so much about the Spanish culture and language and also had the experience of a lifetime.
MND: Tell us why you love MND.
JD: I love MND because it is a warm and welcoming environment that makes you feel wanted and not pressured to be like anyone else...and you can feel like you can be yourself and meet new people, which forms the basic skills needed for the rest of your life.
Meredith Maresco (2012) – Service, Faith and Leadership
Meredith Maresco is not a sit on the sidelines kind of girl! She has jumped into the MND experience with both feet. This year, she is serving as the National Honor Society’s service coordinator, is vice-president of Parish Council, is a member of Student Government, Student Task Force Worship Commission and Spanish Club! Additionally, Meredith volunteers after school at Sts. Peter and Paul which is her “favorite way to serve!” Meredith exemplifies what it means to be a Mount Notre Dame empowered young woman!
MND: Tell us a little bit about your most recent success.
MM: Becoming an NHS officer has been a big achievement for me recently. NHS is my favorite club and the fact that I am now the service coordinator is so exciting because I enjoy volunteering and I hope to share my passion with others. I also really love all of the other board members. They are amazing girls and I can’t wait to work with them.
MND: How has MND positioned you for success?
MM: MND positioned me for success by creating an environment for me to take a rigorous course-load and now I feel prepared academically and socially for college.
MND: What is your favorite MND memory?
MM: My favorite memory is going to Columbus my freshman year to watch the basketball team win in the final four and then going back the next day to watch them win the championship!
MND: What advice would you give to an incoming freshman?
MM: Work hard, but relax and enjoy every second of your time at MND. The four years go by fast and you don’t want to miss out on opportunities or friendships because you were too busy worrying.
MND: Why do you love MND?
MM: It has created an atmosphere where I can be myself and others accept me for who I am. MND is just like one big family.
Dominique Davis (2012) – Quiet, Confident Leadership
How did senior Dominique Davis go from a shy freshman to a senior who is a school leader? Mount Notre Dame – that’s how!
Dominique Davis came to MND a little nervous her freshman year. She only knew a few people. At first, she was shy and kept to herself a little bit, but what a difference the MND experience can make!
Today, Dominique is president of the National Honor Society, treasurer of the Senior Class, member of the Spanish Honor Society, captain of the track team and a KAIROS retreat leader. Dominique credits her MND experience with her growth over the last three years and shared what it has meant to her to be a Cougar!
MND: How has MND prepared you for success?
DD: Beginning in my freshman year, MND has challenged me in the classroom and has prepared me for college. MND has also challenged me socially. Many people may not know that I came from a public school, only knowing a few people. With all MND had to offer, I went from keeping to myself and being a little shy to now speaking in front of the entire school. If you were to tell me during my freshman year that in three years time I would be a leader of the school, I wouldn’t have believed you, but I am. I am truly blessed and thankful for what MND has instilled in me. MND not only prepared me for success in high school, but also for success in my life.
MND: What is your favorite MND memory?
DD: It would have to be watching the faculty and staff do a flash-mob dance to Taio Cruz’s “Dynamite” last year! It was so hilarious and truly brought us together as a school. We’re all so used to seeing students perform, so it was great to see the staff show off their moves!
MND: What would be your advice to an incoming freshman?
DD: My advice to a potential MND student is to take advantage of all that MND has to offer. Whether you’re interested in a sport, in theatre or dance – there are so many amazing ways to get involved. Be open-minded. Challenge yourself academically and expand your horizons socially. As Henry Ford once said, “There isn't a person anywhere who isnt capable of doing more than he thinks he can.” Most importantly, four years go by so fast: ENJOY THEM!!
MND: Why do you love MND?
DD: I love MND because of all the school spirit we have. I think of MND as more of a family than a school. We support each other in everything we do. Whether it’s attending an important basketball game or selling out the summer show “Hairspray,” we always wish the best upon one another. There’s always a welcoming feeling when you enter MND.
Katelyn Sussli (2012) : A True MND Leader
Katelyn Sussli ’12 jumped into Mount Notre Dame with both feet! Beginning with her freshman year, she has been a very integral part of the MND community and she shares her talents in many areas of the school. It would be easier to tell you what clubs and organizations that Katelyn is NOT a part of than to list those who have benefitted from her leadership. From student government to Model UN; from Mission Commission to the Youth Philanthropy Council; from the Track Team to Relay for Life, Ms. Sussli has made her mark on MND.
Katelyn credits MND with giving her the confidence to pursue her interests. “MND positioned me for success by supporting me in everything I tried. Whether it was in regard to my faith or academics or extra-curricular activities, I always had that second MND family cheering me on and offering me guidance along the way. MND has instilled in me that I can accomplish whatever may come my way and to take advantage of every opportunity.”
Katelyn remembers being nervous about starting high school, but by becoming active, those fears quickly vanished. “I remember being so worried about everything: classes, clubs, sports and friends. Looking back, I laugh at how worried I was because it was so easy to make friends. In fact, most of the girls I became friends with freshman year are some of my best friends today. I have no doubt that these friendships will carry into college and beyond.”
Katelyn’s advice to “Future Cougars” is to be open to trying new things. “High school is a time to make a new start, whether it’s academically, spiritually or socially. By trying new things, not only are memories made, but you meet so many people.”
Taylor Freeman (2011) : Getting Involved!
Taylor Freeman has kept herself extremely busy during her high school experience. As a four-year member of MND’s basketball team, Taylor has so many fond memories of her experience with MND’s athletic program. However, one of her best memories is not from a game or even time on the court, it was when the team did volunteer work in Berlin, OH.
In addition to athletics, Taylor served as a senior class officer, was on the leadership team for MND’s Culture Awareness Team, volunteered with the Big Sis/Little Sis Program, was a freshmen retreat leader and was a member of Cougar Pride. Outside of MND, Taylor is active in her parish, St. Gabriel in Glendale. For the last eight years, Taylor has also been a volunteer at the St. Rita’s School for the Deaf Haunted House during the month of October. Taylor serves as the make-up artist and floor monitor. In addition, Taylor tutors sixth graders at Roselawn Candon and volunteers at Arden Court’s Assisted Living Alzheimer’s Unit. As if that wasn’t a full plate, Taylor also has a part-time job at The Grande Finale and babysits on the weekends.
Taylor credits much of her drive and ambition to her Mount Notre Dame experience. “MND has pushed me to become the empowered young woman that I believe I am today,” she says. “MND provides an environment that pushes you past your expectations of life. Many of my teachers helped me realize that I could do so much more in life if I just pushed myself and worked hard.” Taylor’s hard work has paid off; she received a scholarship to the College of Mount St. Joseph where she will continue her academic career this fall.
Taylor’s advice to an in-coming student is to “GET INVOLVED! I waited until my sophomore year to really get into the many clubs MND offers. Once I did, I felt more connected to the school.”
Taylor also really values the relationships she’s formed with members of the MND community. “I love MND because everyone in the building truly cares about one another. There have been countless times when I needed a shoulder to lean on or support and it came from a teacher, staff member or student. Basically, I think MND is a special place blessed with many special people. “
Kathryn Reynolds (2011) : Leading the way on and off the court
While Kathryn has built a reputation on the basketball court (and she even played for MND’s golf team freshman year), that is just a part of life at MND. Like most Mount Notre Dame students, Kathryn has had an extremely well-rounded high school experience. Although she has much success in the athletic arena, her academic and service success is just as impressive. Kathryn has been a member of the astronomy club, Adopt-a-Sis Club, a volunteer at Winton Hills Academy, led the sophomore retreat, a member of the 150th Anniversary Planning Committee and served as Treasurer of the National Honor Society.
Kathryn’s hard work in school, in sports and her dedication to service will serve her well next year as she continues her studies at the University of Iowa, where she has been invited to attend a President’s Leadership Class. MND has prepared Kathryn well for this leadership opportunity. “MND has positioned me for success by giving me countless opportunities to try new things. From retreats to volunteering at an inner-city school, there are so many roads that MND allows you to explore.”
Kathryn’s advice to Future Cougars: “Try new things that may be outside of your comfort zones. Get started with organizations: theatre, sports or whatever it may be that you’re interested in as a freshman. You’ll get a four-year chance to do something you really love!”
As she prepares for graduation, Kathryn is already beginning to miss her “MND Experience.” “I love MND because of the people that make up this community!”
Kate Dexter (2011) : Environmental Leader
Mount Notre Dame senior Kate Dexter has always had a love of nature and animals. As president of MND’s Environmental Club, she has been a driving force in MND’s initiatives to go a little greener through awareness campaigns, clean-up events and recycling projects.
Kate combined her love of nature, animals and service by working as a volunteer every weekend at the Cincinnati Zoo. Kate spends each Saturday at the zoo’s Bird House where she makes diets, cleans exhibits, washes dishes and socializes the chicks. Her Sundays are spent with the zoo’s manatees at the Manatee Springs exhibit. Kate snorkels in the tank and helps with training, cleaning, feeding and even has to fend off the occasional yellow rat snake!
Recently, Kate became SCUBA certified and travelled to Crystal River, FL to swim with wild manatees. It was the experience of a lifetime! “It was such a fun trip. While I was there, I also had the opportunity to hear Jane Goodall speak and got her thumbprint in my books. It was such a moving experience being right next to her,” Kate remembers.
While at MND, Kate gained the self-confidence to pursue her passions. “MND gave me the courage and skills that I need to live out my dream. MND is a place where I can fit in and still be comfortable being me.”
Kate’s advice to Future Cougars is, “Don’t be afraid to get out there and be involved! Find your passion and go with it!”
Avery Larkin (2011) : Making the Most of the Gifts She Has Been Given
Senior Avery Larkin has made the most of the opportunities MND has presented to her! She is captain of the varsity softball team, was co-captain of the varsity basketball team and serves as president of the National Honor Society. As if that weren't enough, Avery is also a member of the Astronomy Club, Latin Club, Mission Commission Homeroom Representative and was a Committee Chair for MND’s Haitian Salvation Event.
In her community, Avery volunteers with the Southwest Ohio Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Seminar (HOBY) in the summers. This summer, Avery is returning as a volunteer after attending the seminar as a student ambassador in 2009. The program had quite an impact on her and showed Avery that she’s capable of achieving any goal she decides upon. “I’m glad that by helping with HOBY, I could be opening the eyes of multiple students who have real potential to make a difference,” she said. Avery is also active at her parish, serving as a Eucharistic Minister.
When Avery is not volunteering, she loves to watch movies, hang out with friends and play…wait for it…paintball. Paintball is something Avery picked up this year as a way to unwind from the everyday stresses of life. Even if she has to procrastinate on homework a bit, Avery feels it is worth it because she feels so much more relaxed and appreciative of the time she’s able to spend with her friends.
Avery encourages all current and future MND students to take advantage of all that the school has to offer. She believes that your experience is what you make it! Her advice to Future Cougars is, “Push yourself in the classroom! Get involved in as many activities as you can so you can discover what your interests are. Whether you are a member of GAA or Adopt-a-Sis, you will discover your passion!”
Avery believes that MND positioned her for success by providing her with opportunities in which she could step into a leadership role and work in a team-setting with her classmates. She remembers that in her Engineering Your Future class, she was one of a few juniors in a class with mostly seniors. When they were learning about computer engineering, she worked to program Lego robots and train them to do certain tasks. She was put into a group with two other seniors, and working with the seniors allowed her to both lead and follow at the same time, a skill she believes she will take with her the rest of her life.
Sydney, Avery's sister, is a freshman at MND. Avery "I love the fact that I get the chance to see Sydney growing up firsthand. A lot of siblings have to rely on stories about school and friends, but I get to see my little sister in action every day. I'm so proud of her and couldn't be happier that we got to share a year at MND together."
Avery loves MND because she believes there is not a more supportive community in all of Cincinnati. “When I was in 8th grade, I didn’t initially plan to come to MND, but once I shadowed, I knew this was THE place for me.”
Avery has never regretted her decision to join the MND family. “You know you’re at a great school when you walk down the halls and you see faculty interacting with students and classmates decorating their friends’ lockers. After being here for four years, I know that MND will always have a special place in my heart. Although it saddens me to be leaving soon, I’m very grateful to the MND community for giving me such a fantastic high school experience. It has shaped me into the person I am today.”
Kara Driscoll (2011) : Quiet Leadership through a Strong Faith
Senior Kara Driscoll comes from a long line of Empowered MND Women. Not only did Kara’s two older sisters graduate from MND, but so did her mother and both of her grandmothers. Being a part of the “MND Family” is one of the things Kara feels is so special about Mount Notre Dame. “MND has a really great sense of community. I feel like there’s always someone guiding and supporting me,” she said.
Kara’s advice to a “Future Cougar” is to “get involved as much as you can, but create some balance to it. At first I was so focused on sports, but then I realized that I wanted to take advantage of the opportunities MND offers with clubs and in service.” Kara is definitely involved! Just a few of her many activities are Parish Council - President, Adopt-a-Sis, Managing Editor of PawPrints - MND’s student online newspaper, Leadership Council, and she tutors at SS. Peter & Paul Academy. On Saturday mornings Kara enjoys working in Over-the-Rhine helping learning about affordable housing and helping folks get back on their feet.
When asked about her favorite MND memory, Kara replied, “I have so many great memories, but the first one that comes to mind is the launch of PawPrints. It was such a fun and unique thing to experience and I feel blessed to be a part of it.” Visit www.mndpawprints.com for more!