Dedication, perseverance and an insatiable desire to learn and excel are traits that have enabled our 2018 Valedictorian Bea Pickett to succeed throughout her time at St. Mary’s. Bea has displayed a strong sense of focus and determination ever since she stepped foot in SMA as a freshman, and it’s no surprise that these traits have put her at the top of her class and earned her a spot in Yale’s Class of 2022.
When asked what she loves most about St. Mary’s, Salutatorian Kara D’ascenzo said, “I really enjoy that the St. Mary’s community is loving and supportive, and that everybody is also willing to hold you accountable to work hard and challenge yourself. It’s very inspiring to be part of a group of women that are accomplishing great things, which inspires you to be the best version of yourself that you can be.”
You can depend on St. Mary’s Science Olympiad team to prove that women can excel in STEM. This year’s program consisted of three 12-person teams that completely dominated at the state competition. This group of science experts competed in a variety of challenging tests and labs to take home 1st, 5th and 6th place, collectively earn thirty 2nd and 3rd place medals, and secure them a spot at the National Tournament. If that’s not impressive enough, this was the first year competing for many members of the team, demonstrating that no challenge is too big for St. Mary’s girls.
As a student at St. Mary’s Academy, Jennifer Schulte Masi ’94 envisioned a world of opportunities and considered possibly pursuing a career in architecture. Little did she know that her background as a student athlete and the skills she was acquiring would take her in a different direction, leading her to a career that would allow her to work with some of the biggest brands and sports teams in the nation
