The President’s Report by Marilyn Lynaugh Strafer, ‘80

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If you look forward to our triannual newsletter, then you are among the hundreds of graduates who eagerly await its delivery to catch up on our events and reminiscence of the glory days of the School of Nursing. 

 

Many of us will remember our former instructor, Joan Caruana, ’61 as the Editor Emeritus who was responsible for many editions starting in 1975 and forming the newsletter we know today. Joan passed the care and craft of the newsletter to Maureen Garrett McElhinny and Bernadette Fleming Hemmer, roommates and besties from the Class of 1968. This dynamic duo has edited and produced our publication since 2012 and now have passed the baton to Kathie Shea Contello, ’74 as of January 2026. 

 

I speak on behalf of the SVH Board and Committee members, as well as the Alumnae Association at large, to offer our gratitude to Maureen and Bernadette for the countless hours over the years that they have invested in arranging this jewel of our organization. Their leadership and perseverance have continued to forge our memories and friendships and can never be underestimated. They will continue to serve as advisors to the newsletter committee. 

 

We also thank Kathie for taking on this position as Editor-in-Chief and offer her our thanks and support for bringing the newsletter into the next rendition of our legacy. Brava ladies! 

 

On a new note, it is never too early to plan for our 96th Annual Luncheon on October 24th, 2026. After careful review of the previous luncheon expenditures, we have made the difficult decision as a Board to increase the cost by $20 due to increases at the venue and other administrative fees. The new amount will be $150, and we regret any hardship this may cause.  The Alumnae Association does underwrite approximately $17,000 each year for expenses such as administrative venue costs, church expenses, photography, and printing fees.

 

Concerning the luncheon, our new vice president, Mary Carmody, ’73, has secured contracts with two local hotels for a discounted rate for our graduates. Please see the accompanying article under Class Notes for details. 

And finally, I thank everyone who has taken the time to reach out via mail or digitally to express your appreciation to the Alumnae Association for extending friendships and memories. It is our honor to serve you, our members for years to come.