2025 Women making a difference
Congratulations to 2025 Honorees
Three distinguished alumnae from Notre Dame Academy will be celebrated at the annual Women Making a Difference Recognition Award Luncheon, scheduled for Thursday, March 6, 2025. The honorees for this year’s event are Marianne Cohen Fieger 1962, Sharon Stahl Harris 1975, Lauren Simendinger Wang 2002. Jerry & Sue 1966 Von Handorf will be honored with the Sr. Reina Award.
Now in its twenty-fourth year, the Women Making a Difference award program acknowledges the remarkable contributions of Notre Dame Academy alumnae to their families and communities through service, professional achievements, and philanthropic endeavors. It is a tribute to these women for embodying NDA’s proud legacy and their continued impact on the world. Additionally, the luncheon plays a via role in raising funds for Notre Dame Academy.
The ceremony will take place at the St. Elizabeth Training and Education Center (SETEC) in Erlanger, commencing with registration and networking at 11:00 a.m., followed by the luncheon at 12:00 p.m. The Women Making A Difference luncheon warmly welcomes alumnae, corporate representatives, parents, and friends of Notre Dame Academy. Additional details, ticket information and sponsorship opportunities can be found HERE.
For more information, please contact the Notre Dame Academy Advancement Department at 859.292.7729.
2025 Women Making A Difference RECIPIENT
Marianne Cohen Fieger 1962
Marianne Cohen Fieger exemplifies the true spirit of servant leadership, embodying the values of selflessness, compassion, and dedication in everything she does. She is a quiet yet powerful force behind many of the charitable efforts in our community, always putting the needs of others before her own and working tirelessly behind the scenes.
Marianne has devoted countless hours of her time, talent, and treasure to causes that matter most, particularly within the Catholic Church and local community. As a fundraiser and volunteer for Catholic Charities, she has played a key role in supporting those in need, especially the sick and shut-ins. Her involvement with St. Charles Community and St. Joseph Parish has been marked by a deep commitment to service, including her role as a Eucharistic Minister and her consistent outreach to those who may otherwise be forgotten.
A true servant leader, Marianne doesn’t seek recognition or accolades for her work. She prefers to remain behind the scenes, where she can quietly make a difference. Whether organizing community events or offering support to those in crisis, she does so with a humility that speaks volumes. She leads by example, living her faith through acts of volunteerism rather than through words, never drawing attention to herself, but always ensuring that those in need are cared for.
Marianne’s personal connections to so many people in our community are a testament to her kindness, empathy, and generosity. She is the kind of friend you aspire to be — always offering a kind word, a helping hand, or a smile when it’s needed most. Her quiet, humble gestures of love and support reflect the true heart of Catholic service.
We honor Marianne Cohen Fieger for her unwavering commitment to service, her humble spirit, and her dedication to living her faith through action. She is a shining example of the power of kindness, the strength of community, and the beauty of a life lived in service to others.
2025 Women Making A Difference RECIPIENT
Sharon Stahl Harris 1975
Sharon Stahl Harris is a remarkable example of a humble servant leader whose life is dedicated to advocacy, education, and service to others. As a Sisters of Notre Dame Associate, Sharon has lived with grace, always working quietly behind the scenes to support ministries that may not always be in the spotlight but are no less vital to the well-being of our community.
Sharon’s impressive work in the fields of science and education research including scientific research in Antarctica, reflects her passion for learning and her belief in the transformative power of knowledge. However, it is her unwavering commitment to social justice that truly sets her apart. She has been a passionate advocate for those on the margins of society, including refugees and prisoners, standing up for the dignity of all people and working to give voice to those often overlooked or forgotten.
Her support of ministries that focus on these critical issues — often less common or less visible — is a testament to her deep faith and her belief in the core Catholic values of compassion and justice. Sharon has supported Syrian refugees, prisoners and others in need. Sharon is not one to seek recognition, but her influence is felt deeply within the communities she serves, as she continually offers her time, talent, and expertise to those in need.
Sharon’s dedication to service and her humble, servant-hearted approach to leadership make her a true example of what it means to live the Gospel through action. We are honored to recognize her today for her tireless advocacy, her commitment to social service, and her quiet yet powerful contributions to the betterment of our world.
2025 Women Making A Difference RECIPIENT
Lauren Simendinger Wang 2002
Dr. Lauren Simendinger Wang is a trailblazer, a compassionate doctor, and a shining example of what it means to live out one’s faith through service to others. With a deep Catholic faith that guides her every decision, Lauren has dedicated her life to improving the health and well-being of those often overlooked by society, particularly individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
As a physician at the UC Freeman Center, Lauren has been a leader in providing essential medical services and support to adults with IDD, ensuring they receive the care and dignity they deserve long after they turn 18. Her work in this field is a reflection of her strong belief in the inherent dignity of every person, a core principle of the Sisters of Notre Dame educational philosophy, which she has embraced in both her professional and personal life.
Lauren’s love for people and her commitment to serving others extends beyond her medical practice. She was a valued speaker at Notre Dame Academy’s Senior Mission Retreat, where she shared her insights and inspired students to live out their faith through action. Her example as a healthcare professional, advocate, and Catholic leader serves as a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have when they live their values with passion and dedication.
Today, we honor Dr. Lauren Simendinger Wang for her groundbreaking work in the medical field, her unwavering commitment to human dignity, and her ability to inspire others to serve with love and compassion. She is truly deserving of this recognition for her tireless efforts to make a difference in the lives of others.
2025 Women Making A Difference, Sr. Reina Award RECIPIENTS
Jerry & Sue 1966 Von Handorf
Sue, 1966 alumna and Jerry Von Handorf have profoundly impacted both the Notre Dame Academy community and the greater Northern Kentucky area. Their unwavering commitment to service and compassion makes them truly deserving of the Sr. Reina Award. As their daughter, Maria, aptly put it: “Mom and Dad are simply amazing human beings. Their heart and compassion for the community and beyond have been a prominent fixture in what it means to be the hands and feet of Christ. They have been incredible role models of selfless service and kindness for decades.”
From 1989 to 2006, Sue and Jerry opened their home and hearts as foster parents to over 30 children, all while raising their three biological children. Ultimately, they also adopted two children, solidifying their lifelong commitment to family and service. Their dedication extended to St. Augustine Parish, where they both served in numerous roles, including on the parish council, liturgical committees, and RCIA. They were also involved in Sunday School, lectoring, cantoring, and volunteering at parish festivals. A particularly meaningful contribution from Sue was her work organizing Vacation Bible Schools for the children in the City Heights community in Covington. For several years, Sue served as a volunteer teacher’s aide and participated in several mission trips to El Salvador. Together, the Von Handorfs have been dedicated volunteers at the Parish Kitchen, where along with serving meals Sue baked cakes for various holiday events and organized family volunteers to color Easter eggs for patrons. Their service to those in need extends to the Emergency Shelter in Covington, where they prepare meals, help with laundry and transport the homeless to safety. They also serve meals regularly at the Madison Avenue Christian Church.
Jerry’s contributions to NDA have been especially invaluable. For over 10 years, he has served on the Facilities and Grounds Committee, and he was involved in the successful completion of NDA’s 2017-2018 renovation project. Following that, he developed a comprehensive 10-year facilities plan, in conjunction with the Facilities Committee. Jerry spent countless hours researching and compiling historical documents to create a roadmap for the school’s future. His work has been essential in ensuring NDA’s continued sustainability and growth and since the plan was implemented, NDA has undertaken major improvements.
Through their work, their faith, and their unwavering commitment to service, Sue and Jerry Von Handorf have left a lasting legacy in both the NDA and Northern Kentucky communities. It is with deep gratitude and admiration that we honor them with the Sr. Reina Award.
2025 Women making a difference
Nominations
Nominations are being accepted for an NDA alumna, who has made significant contributions to their families and their communities through service, professional and philanthropic efforts, for Notre Dame Academy’s annual Women Making a Difference award. All nominations must be received no later than September 20, 2024 and can be submitted: By mail to the NDA Alumnae Department Attn: Women Making A Difference at 1699 Hilton Drive Park Hills, KY 41011 Email: MosleyL@ndapandas.org
2024 honorees
Congratulations to our 23nd Annual Women Making A Difference Recipients
Three distinguished alumnae from Notre Dame Academy will be celebrated at the annual Women Making a Difference Recognition Award Luncheon, scheduled for Thursday, March 7, 2024. The honorees for this year’s event are Betty Baumann Verst 1951, Sandy Bayless Gleeson 1962 and Connie Noll 1985.
The Women Making A Difference award program recognizes Notre Dame Academy alumnae who have made significant contributions to their families and communities through service, professional achievements and philanthropic endeavors. It is a tribute to these women for embodying NDA’s proud legacy and their continued impact on the world. Additionally, the luncheon plays a vital role in raising funds for tuition assistance at Notre Dame Academy.
The ceremony will take place at the Northern Kentucky Convention Center in Covington, commencing with registration and networking at 11:00 a.m., followed by the luncheon at 12:00 pm.m The Women Making A Difference luncheon warmly welcomes all alumnae, corporate representatives, parents and friends of Notre Dame Academy.
2024 WMAD RECIPIENT
Betty Baumann Verst
Betty Baumann Verst (Class of 1951) is a shining example of a dedicated and compassionate individual whose unwavering commitment to her community and the principles of Catholic education is nothing short of remarkable. It is with great pride that we honor Betty Verst with the Woman Making A Difference award from NDA.
Betty’s lifelong dedication to enhancing the spiritual and educational well-being of her local community is most evident in her philanthropic efforts. She has generously supported the construction of chapels at four local high schools: Notre Dame Academy, Covington Catholic, Bishop Brossart and Newport Central Catholic, in addition to one at St. Elizabeth Hospital. Betty’s involvement in these projects extends beyond financial contributions; it reflects her deep connection to these institutions, which have played an essential role in the lives of her late husband, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Betty’s visionary support has created spaces of solace and reflection, where students can partake in prayer and meditation within their schools. Her commitment to nurturing spirituality and offering students a place for personal growth demonstrates her profound understanding of the importance of faith in education.
Furthermore, Betty has continually prioritized Catholic education through her scholarships and monetary donations to schools within the diocese. Her contributions have enabled countless students to access a faith-based education that is often life-changing.
Betty Baumann Verst’s dedication to her community and her commitment to the values of Catholic education make her a truly deserving recipient of the Woman Making A Difference award. Her legacy of support and love for her local schools will continue to impact generations of students and uphold the spirit of Notre Dame Academy’s mission. Betty’s actions exemplify the values and principles we hold dear, and we are proud to recognize her for her exceptional contributions.
2024 WMAD Recipient
Sandy Bayless Gleeson
Sandy Bayless Gleeson (Class of 1962) exemplifies the qualities of selflessness, compassion and unwavering dedication to her community and faith. It is with the utmost respect and admiration that we celebrate Sandy Glee-son as a recipient of the Woman Making A Difference award from NDA.
Sandy’s journey is a testament to her lifelong commitment to the service of others. As a nurse, she has devoted her career to caring for the sick, infirmed and dying, embodying the very essence of compassion and empathy. Her dedication to her faith has been a guiding light, inspiring her to serve not only within her profession but also in various volunteer roles that have touched the lives of many. Through the knowledge she gained from working on the Psychiatric Unit as a new graduate along with 21 years in the Emergency unit at Good Samaritan Hospital gave her an invaluable knowledge base in extending heith 21 years in the Emergency unit at Good Samaritan Hospital gave her an invaluable knowledge base in extending her care to my family, friends and patients alike. For Sandy, nursing is not just her profession, it’s her life’s ministry.
Sandy’s contributions extend far beyond the confines of nursing. She has been an invaluable member of the Chil-dren’s Home Board, offering her expertise to improve the lives of children and families in need. Her work as a volunteer at the Good Samaritan Hospital Free Health Center (FHC), supporting the most vulnerable in the community, underscores her commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of those who need it most.
Sandy’s compassionate leadership shines through her involvement in the arts, where she has volunteered at Aronoff, Covedale and Incline Theatres. Her participation in the arts community adds a touch of warmth and creativity to her service efforts.
Her dedication to Catholicism and her devotion to her faith are unwavering. Sandy’s work as a parish nurse, conducting blood pressure screenings and providing support to her church community, is a reflection of her strong connection to her faith and her commitment to its principles. Sandy also serves as a lector and minister the Eucharist at the weekday and weekend liturgies at St. Agnes on a regular basis.
Notably, Sandy extends her service to homeless families through Family Promise, offering comfort and assistance to those facing some of life’s most challenging circumstances.
Sandy Bayless Gleeson’s life is a testament to the power of compassion and selfless service. Her dedication to the sick, the needy, her faith and her community is a shining example of the values Notre Dame Academy holds dear. We are proud to recognize her as a recipient of the Woman Making A Difference award, and her legacy of kindness will continue to inspire generations to come.
2024 WMAD Recipient
Connie Noll
Connie Noll (Class of 1985) is a shining example of unwavering commitment to her faith and community. It is with great honor and admiration that we recognize Connie Noll as a deserving recipient of the Woman Making A Differ-ence award from NDA.
Connie’s life has been a testament to the principles of service and compassion. As the Chair of the Catholic Chari-ties Board’s CASSBA event, she has played a pivotal role in supporting those in need and championing the values of Catholic charity. Her dedication to the DCCH (Diocesan Catholic Children’s Home) is a testament to her devotion to the welfare and development of children and families.
A natural leader, Connie has been a guiding presence for high school retreats, offering spiritual guidance and mentorship to the next generation. She lives out Catholic and Christian values not just in her words but in her daily actions, setting an example for all who have the privilege of knowing her.
As a parish volunteer and committed parishioner, Connie actively contributes to the well-being of her faith community. Her service extends beyond her personal beliefs, as she embodies the essence of a servant leader—selflessly dedicating her time and energy to the betterment of others.
Connie Noll’s remarkable life is a testament to her unwavering commitment to Catholic and Christian values and her dedication to serving those in need. Her leadership, compassion, and commitment to her faith community make her a highly deserving recipient of the Woman Making A Difference award from NDA. Her legacy of service and kindness will continue to inspire those who have the privilege of following in her footsteps.
Our Distinguished Past Honorees
2002
Mary Lee Stegman Aldemeyer ’35
Ann McCabe Buenger ’44
Trinette Foote ’72
Judy Webster Gerding ’58
Lisa Cooney Henderson ’82
Judy Fisk Schneider ’63
2003
Fran Harden Carlisle ’58
Virginia “Tep” Witemyre McCafferty ’48
Denise Gehring Schickling ’65
2004
Sister Mary Laurence Budde, SND ’47
Sally McGinnis Monahan ’75
Patricia M. Summe ’71
2005
Deborah Ann Borchers ’75
Patricia Rust Kovacs ’71
Jean Schmidt Longshore ’50
2006
Mary Theis Bunning ’50
Sister Jean Marie Hoffman ’65
Jean Ann Glenn VonHandorf ’44
2007
Catherine (Kay) Laske ’34
Amy McGrath-Henderson ’93
Elizabeth Riche Read ’39
2008
Janet Annear Chambers ’77
Michelle Dixon Eckerle ’94
Carol Schmidt Mullen ’53
2009
Ruth Appel Averdick ’69
Sister Georgia Marie Messingschlager 56
Mary Kay Woodruff Sommerkamp ’81
2010
Amy Quinn ’90
Lynn Dietz Schworer ’74
Carol Steltenkamp ’79
2011
Sister Ann Rene McConn ’56
Amy Brake Thomas ’92
Marilyn Willenbrink ’60
2012
Cathy Toebbe Ficke ’69
Sr. Sebastien Schmidt, SND ’45
Deb Moore Shaner ’79
2013
Kara Middendorf ’96
Janet Von Handorf Schmidt ’81
Kathy Talbert Thamann ’69
2014
Marcia Adick Klaene ’61
Joan Kluemper, DMD ’69
Mary Ann Blewett Robinson ’55
Gabrielle Summe, Esq. ’84
2015
Julia B. Meister ’87
Meghan Scherder Olson ’91
Wendy Vonderhaar ’86
2016
Lisa Davis Louden ’97
Sister Mary Ethel Parrott, SND ’64
Gina Tuemler Wulfeck ’76
2017
Linda Scully Bricking ‘65
Katrina Wagner Brown ‘86
Penelope Bayless Rogers ‘60
2018
Barb Fritz ’68
Jan Steffen Hanser ’76
Amy Wurtenberger Beck ’78
Martha Wurtenberger Barnes ’78
2019
Rosa Hollis-Bird ’62
Julie Prewitt Schneider ’84
Karen Bieger Finan ’77
Julie Mullen Bruns ’87
2020
Connie Kaelin Roenker ’68
Peggy Murphy Barker ’84
Holly Graziani Danneman ’92
2021
Sister Mary Paul Ann Hanneken, SND ’50
Sister Mary Rachel Nerone, SND ’54
Sister Mary Janet Stamm, SND ’58
Annie Faragher Bennett ’66
Sharon Bosch Foster ’83
2022
Laura Gausepohl Arlinghaus ’81
Jo Ruwe Terry ’81
Kristy Franxman Dailey ’01
2023
Sr. Marie Rose Messingschlager, CDP ’62
Emily Melching Michels ’88
Erin Kern Timmerding ’90