Class of 2024 Graduation

Madelyn Eve Kolb 
Maddie Kolb has been a member of the NFA community since kindergarten. With a passion for travel, skiing, and memorable moments with loved ones, Maddie embraces life's adventures with enthusiasm and grace. Her leadership qualities shine through in her self-motivation and conscientious approach to all tasks. We are confident that Maddie will continue to excel at her chosen high school - Mount St. Joseph's Academy.

Emma Strenger
Only joining NFA since 6th grade, Emma has been a pleasure to teach. She is kind, personable, and friendly to all. Emma loves writing, acting and spending time with her family. Emma will take her many talents to The Philadelphia High School for Creative and Performing Arts this fall. 

Catalina Urrutia-Lozano
Joining NFA in her 6th grade year, Catalina Urrutia-Lozano became a cherished member of the Class of 2024. Throughout her time at NFA, Catalina has been a beacon of positivity, leading by example with her enthusiasm and unwavering optimism. Cat finds joy in traveling, cherishing moments with family, and savoring delicious food. As she eagerly anticipates the transition to high school, Catalina is excited about the prospect of meeting new people and embarking on new adventures at Germantown Academy.

Ava Neve Cleary
Walking the streets of Chestnut Hill to Norwood every day since kindergarten, NFA is a second home to Ava. Ava is friendly, studious, and mature. She loves going to the beach, playing lacrosse, and spending time with family. Ava will be taking her many talents to Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School this fall.

Kian James Edwards
Kian has been part of the NFA community since the age of three. With a passion for sports, Kian has remained actively involved at NFA. He enjoys quality time with his family, and strives to bring smiles to the faces of everyone around him. Kian's active nature, social spirit, and generous heart are evident to all who know him. Kian is looking forward to the next chapter of his academic journey, joining the Class of 2028 at LaSalle College High School this fall.

James David Simonetti
Since joining this class in 5th grade, James has brought humor and personality to NFA. He is an amazing lacrosse player, loves music and fast food, and is caring to everyone he meets. He will continue his education at Springside Chestnut Hill Academy this fall.

Ethan Chase Nienhuis
Ethan Nienhuis has been an integral part of the NFA community since his preschool years, bringing enthusiasm and warmth to all he does. With a passion for sports, skiing, and cherishing moments with loved ones, Ethan enjoys each day to the fullest. His polite demeanor, friendly nature, and empathetic approach make him a cherished friend to many. As he eagerly anticipates his high school journey, we have no doubt that Ethan will continue to thrive, with his positive energy and kindness at LaSalle College High School.

Noelle Elizabeth Bamford
Since joining NFA in 6th grade, Noelle has always walked the halls with a smile. Noelle is considerate of others, upbeat, and friendly. Noelle loves to spend time with friends, traveling, and hanging out with her family. Noelle will be taking her many talents to Penn Charter High School next fall.

Helen Abernathy
Helen's time at NFA began in the Montessori preschool, and over the years, she has truly blossomed. She has a passion for reading, a love for theater, and enjoys spending time with her friends. Helen is bright, honest, and has a profound appreciation for books. As she Prepares to embark on the next chapter of her academic journey, attending Central High School in the fall, we have no doubt that Helen will continue to shine brightly and positively influence those around her.

Neil Donovan Chalila
Donovan is known for his curiosity, social nature, and love for football, SZA, and Chick-Fil-A. He joined NFA in 7th grade and we send him forth to attend LaSalle College High School this fall. Good luck Donovan.

Jackson Paul Krzywicki
A member of the NFA family since kindergarten, Jack is liked by all. He is athletic, studious, and laid-back. Jack loves playing basketball, soccer, and being with friends. Jack will be a great addition to the Springside Chestnut Hill Academy community this fall.

Thomas Kirk Bland
Thomas joined NFA just this year in 8th grade. He is deeply thoughtful and respectful, with a keen interest in lacrosse, music, and family vacations. He has been a lovely addition to our community and we wish him well at Springside Chestnut Hill Academy this fall. 

Lucy McDevitt
Joining NFA in your 8th grade year can be tough, but Lucy got comfortable real quick! She is funny, outgoing, and energetic. Lucy loves playing sports, hanging out with friends, and going to the beach. Lucy will be taking her many talents to Springfield High School this fall.

Esme DeCrescio
Avid shopper, and beach-goer Esme DeCrescio has been curious, kind, and studious since her days in the White House. She also cares deeply about her friends with whom she will be moving on to Mount St. Joseph's Academy in September. 

Nina Alice Meierdiercks
Sweet, caring, and kind, Nina is a star on the field, court and in the classroom. Nina loves going to the beach, playing soccer, basketball, and lacrosse, and spending time with family and friends. Mount St. Joseph's Academy will be blessed to have her this fall.

Peter Gabriel Quinn 
Petey’s NFA journey can be traced all the way back to kindergarten. He is a creative, witty, and artistic young man. Petey loves art, drawing, and playing Dungeons and Dragons. Petey will be taking his many talents to St. Joseph’s Preparatory School this fall.

Leah J’nae Gregory
Leah came to NFA in first grade, and since then, she has grown into a remarkable individual. With a fondness for vacationing, beach outings, and savoring iced chai lattes, Leah embraces life's simple pleasures with enthusiasm. Her outgoing nature and willingness to engage in various activities make her a cherished member of our community. Leah is eager to begin high school at Mount St. Joseph's Academy in the fall.

Diana Fulton Manges
A member of the NFA family since kindergarten, Diana is liked by all. Diana is bubbly, hard-working, and mature. She loves field hockey, being with her family and friends, and art. Diana will be taking her talents to Plymouth Whitemarsh High School this fall.

Samantha Travers
Samantha has been a valued member of the NFA community since her kindergarten year. Beyond her academic pursuits, Sam enjoys exploring new places through travel, excelling on the field hockey field, and enjoying some retail therapy. Her hard-working attitude, unwavering confidence, and generous spirit have earned admiration from classmates and teachers alike. As she eagerly anticipates joining the Class of 2028 at Mount St. Joseph's Academy, we have full confidence that Sam will continue to thrive and leave a positive mark wherever she goes.

Madison Rose Jackson
Since her days in kindergarten, Madison has been known as a hard worker, a respectful student, and a role model for her peers. She enjoys quality time with family, vacations, and beach time. She's set to continue her journey at Mount St. Joseph's Academy this September.

Peter Robert Egginton
Pete has been quick with a joke at Norwood since Pre-K. He is witty, independent, and honest. Pete loves playing baseball, swimming, and spending time with family and friends. Pete will be taking his many talents to LaSalle College High School this fall.

Jill Gordon
Jill joined NFA just last year, but made herself comfortable real quick. She is honest, funny, and bubbly. Jill loves volleyball, walking the Ave with friends, and going to Sea Isle. Jill will be a great addition to Mount St. Joseph’s Academy this fall.

Jonah Kazimierz Cohen
The finale of the fantastic Cohen family at NFA. Jonah has been a bright and confident student since pre-k. He is personable, kind-hearted, and studious. Jonah loves playing sports, cooking, and watching TV! He is sure to be a great asset at LaSalle College High School this fall. 

Shea Kathleen Flaherty
Walking Germantown Ave to school every day since Pre-k, Shea will surely be missed. She is bubbly, studious, and a leader. Shea loves playing sports, hanging with friends, and spending time with family. Shea will make a great addition to Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School this fall.

Neely Anita Lesovitz
Walking up the hill to Norwood since 2nd grade, Neely will surely be missed. She is a happy-go-lucky, athletic, and social young woman. Neely loves playing sports, hanging out with friends, and spending time with family. Neely will be taking her many talents to Mount St. Joseph’s Academy this fall.

Rhys Edward Barr
Rhys came to NFA in preschool, and has developed into a true gentleman. With a passion for music, Rhys finds joy in strumming his guitar, along with adventures in biking and family trips. Known for his cooperative spirit, genuine kindness, and unwavering integrity, Rhys is a friend to all and a positive presence in any setting. Rhys will be attending LaSalle College High School this fall. 

John William Greenawalt, V
Lliam joined NFA just this year, but quickly became a valued member of the Class of 2024. With a passion for ice hockey, skiing, and spending time with his family and friends, Lliam embodies respect, engagement, and gratitude in all aspects of his life. As he Prepares to transition to LaSalle College High School in the fall, we have every confidence that Lliam will continue to flourish, bringing his talents and positive energy to his new endeavors.

Ryan Smith
Joining NFA as member of the White House in preK, Ryan is a natural leader with a smart and humorous demeanor. Ryan enjoys family time, food, and basketball. An athlete and a scholar, Ryan will bless St. Joseph's Preparatory School this September. 
 

Robert Louka
A star on the field, the stage, and in the classroom, Robert Louka has been a vital member of the Class of 2024 since preschool in the Gate House. With maturity and grace, Robert will be an asset to the freshman class at St. Joseph's Preparatory School this fall.

Ella Marie Holley
Ella, a beach-lover and traveler who joined the NFA community in kindergarten, is a kind and warm social butterfly!  Surrounded by the support of the friends and family she loves so much, Ella will be attending Mount St. Joseph's Academy in the fall.

Alexis Schoen
Lexi has been a special part of the NFA community since her kindergarten days. She is admired by many because she is humble and kind. Outside of her academic pursuits, Lexi finds joy in spending quality time with her loved ones and enjoying the sun, sand and surf. She is a true friend to all who have had the pleasure of knowing her. Lexi is more than ready to begin the next chapter of her academic journey at Mount St. Joseph's Academy this fall.

Harrison Franklin Loome
Harrison is known at NFA as a friend to all - what a wonderful quality. He is focused, genuine, and caring. Harrison loves 3 Fs: fishing, fast food, and football. We wish him much joy as he attends Lucy Beckham High School in South Carolina in September.

Bryce Avery Simon
A member of the NFA community since 4th grade, Bryce has been a joy to teach. He is laid back, kind, friendly, and helpful. Bryce loves playing basketball, football, and Fortnite with friends. Bryce will be taking his talents to Archbishop Wood High School.

Caroline Joan Bender
Caroline joined NFA in pre-K3 and has since showcased a passion for music, traveling, and shopping. Teachers admire her creativity, independence, and studious nature. She will be attending Mount St. Joseph's Academy.

William Eric Murphy
Billy Murphy has been bringing smiles to the faces of all in our school community since he joined NFA in the 6th Grade. Billy is a versatile athlete, excelling in basketball, soccer, baseball, and track. When he's not on the field or the court, he cherishes moments spent with his family and friends. With his self-assured demeanor, entertaining personality, and infectious smile, Billy has a knack for brightening everyone's day. As he eagerly anticipates his start at LaSalle College High School, we have no doubt that Billy will continue to spread joy and laughter to everyone around him.

Levi August Harley Boles
Roaming the NFA halls since 3rd grade, Levi is a proud member of the Norwood community. He is witty, respectful, responsible, and very personable. Levi loves playing football, fishing, and hanging with the boys. Levi will be a great addition to LaSalle College High School this fall.

Conrad Hughes Gravener
Conrad embarked on his journey at NFA as a Montessori preschooler, laying the groundwork for his academic and personal growth. His interests range from playing sports, socializing with friends, and making memories with his family. With his intelligence, pleasant demeanor, and boundless energy, Conrad leaves a lasting impression on all those he encounters. Conrad is looking forward to joining La Salle College High School's Class of 2028.

Gable Michael Carlson
Gabe’s journey at NFA began in Montessori preschool. Gabe finds joy in playing basketball, skiing down slopes, and embarking on adventures with his family. His vibrant personality, coupled with his creativity and quick wit, make him a cherished friend and a joy to be around. We know that Gabe’s positivity will radiate through the halls of LaSalle College High School this fall.

Stephen Jarrett Churchill
Starting his NFA career in pre-k, Jay has been a pleasure to teach every year. He is curious, kind-hearted, and studious. And loves to chat about his new video game he created. Jay loves science class, video games, and computers. Jay will be taking his many talents to LaSalle College High School.

Tristan Asa Loder
Since his time in the Gate House, Tristan has been a leader among his peers at NFA. In between hockey practice and spending time with his family, Tristan’s intelligence and sense of humor are evident in the school hallways. Our Student Council president is sure to excel at Springside Chestnut Hill Academy.

Alexander Stoyan Hulitt
Alex has been a member of the NFA community since pre-k! He is athletic, energetic, and outgoing. Alex loves basketball, playing Fortnite, and spending time with friends. Alex will take his many talents to LaSalle College High School.

Henry Edward Chomentowski
Since his days in Kindergarten, Henry Chomentowski has grown into a witty, independent, and personable member of the NFA community. With a love for baseball, playing with his little brother Beckett, and skiing, he will journey on to St. Joseph's Preparatory School in the fall.

Larry Raphael Brown Jr
Larry Brown joined NFA in the fifth grade and has since become an integral part of our community. His interests span from playing sports and vacationing, to indulging in culinary delights and spending quality time with family and friends. Larry's confidence, willingness to help whenever needed, and unwavering determination define him as a standout individual. Larry will share his talents with William Penn Charter High School in the fall. 

At this time, we would like to take a moment to recognize students who were named Maguire Scholars during their time at NFA. 

The goal of the Maguire Scholars Program is to support and enrich students by providing an opportunity to educate tomorrow’s leaders. Would the following students please stand to be recognized? Please hold your applause until all names have been called:

• Ella Marie Holley
• Madison Rose Jackson
• William Eric Murphy

We are thrilled to congratulate our graduates who have been awarded high school scholarships. We are proud to announce that they received awards totalling over $690,000.  Would the following students please stand to be recognized? Please hold your applause until all names have been called:

Name	High School	Award/ Scholarship
Rhys Barr	LaSalle College High School	Brother John D’Alfonso Scholarship
Rhys Barr	St. Joseph Prep	Principal Award
Henry Chomentowski	St. Joseph Prep	Principal Award
Stephen “Jay” Churchill	LaSalle College High School	President’s Scholarship
Peter Egginton	LaSalle College High School	Principal’s Scholarship
Conrad Gravener	LaSalle College High School	Principal’s Scholarship
Conrad Gravener	St. Joseph Prep	Principal Award
Madison Jackson	Mount St. Joseph Academy	Maguire Scholarship
Madison Jackson	Merion Mercy Academy	Mercy Scholarship & Maguire Scholarship
Madelyn Kolb	Mount St. Joseph Academy	Founders Scholarship
Madelyn Kolb	Gwynedd Mercy Academy HS	Trustees Scholarship
Jackson Krzywicki	LaSalle College High School	Principal’s Scholarship
Jackson Krzywicki	St. Joseph Prep	Principal Award
Neely Lesovitz	Springside Chestnut Hill Academy	Athletics award
Neely Lesovitz	Penn Charter	Head of School Grant
Neely Lesovitz	St. Thomas Moore Alumni Award
Tristan Loder	LaSalle College High School	Principal’s Scholarship
Tristan Loder	Springside Chestnut Hill Academy	Jordan Maine '79 Athlete Scholar Award
Robert Louka	LaSalle College High School	McLean Scholarship
Robert Louka	St. Joseph’s Prep	Xaverian Scholarship
James Simonetti	Germantown Academy	GA Award for Extracurricular Promise
Samantha Travers	Merion Mercy Academy	Head of School Scholarship
Catalina Urrutia-Lozano	Merion Mercy Academy	Mercy Scholarship

 

The Parents' Association Award for High Academic Honors is presented to the students who have achieved the highest academic averages throughout their eighth grade year.

The 2024 recipients are:

• Tristan Asa Loder
• Diana Fulton Manges
• Samantha Grace Travers
   

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Dr. James D. Kelly and his wife Molly were longtime members of the Norwood-Fontbonne Academy community. Molly attended NFA as did the Kelly children. 

The Dr. James D. Kelly award for honor, courage, scholarship, leadership, service, and character is presented to a boy and girl who have been nominated by their classmates.

The 2024 recipients of the Dr. James D Kelly Award are:

• Tristan Asa Loder
• Ava Neve Cleary 
• Shea Kathleen Flaherty

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This award is presented in memory of Jacques R. K. Normand, class of 1976. Jacques exemplified the qualities of kindness, cheerfulness, and generosity.  This award is presented to the graduate who has evidenced these same virtues throughout his/her years at NFA. The recipient is nominated by his/her classmates.

The 2024 recipients of the Jacques R K Normand Award are:

• Alexis Schoen
• Catalina Urrutia-Lozano

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The Student Athlete Award is presented to those students who have excelled in two or more varsity sports and who rank academically in the upper half of their class.

The 2024 recipients are:

• Neely Anita Lesovitz
• Ryan Gerry Smith

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Sid MacLeod was a longtime faculty member at Norwood-Fontbonne Academy and a parent of NFA students. He loved working with students in 7^th and 8^th grades in the areas of communication and public speaking. 

 The primary purpose of oratorical opportunities is to provide students with self-confidence in public speaking.

This student was selected for this award based on his or her motivation to develop public speaking skills and the confidence to deliver a speech to a large audience.

In honor of his dedication to children, the 2024 Sid MacLeod Award for Excellence in Public Speaking is presented to: 

• Peter Gabriel Quinn

 

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Mr. Russell Clements served Norwood Fontbonne Academy for 25 years, teaching, coaching, and guiding students in 7^th and 8^th grades. 

The Russell G. Clements, Jr. Award for Excellence in Drama is presented to the 8^th grade Drama Club member who most notably exhibit qualities of personal growth. While achieving in the art of acting is a significant consideration, equally as important are cooperation, commitment, teamwork, and courage.

In memory of Mr. Clements dedication to students’ drama performance, the 2024 Russell G. Clements Jr. Award for Excellence in Drama is presented to:

• Helen Clara Ireland Abernathy
• Robert Charles Louka

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Nello Naticchione was a beloved student of Norwood-Fontbonne Academy who passed away while in third grade. Service Learners work in the spirit of Nello as they experience God’s grace.

The Nello Nattichione IV Memorial Award for Service Learning is presented to the graduating student who embodies the principles of Catholic Social Teaching as evidenced through their commitment to service learning.  The recipient of the 2024 Nello Naticchione IV Memorial Award is:

• Diana Fulton Manges
• Jonah Cohen

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Norwood-Fontbonne Academy was established in 1920 as a sponsored work of the Sisters of Saint Joseph. Mother Saint John Fontbonne, foundress of the Sisters, was a woman of vision and one who called the people of her day to a sense of unity and reconciliation. Her leadership calls each of us at NFA to fully live our Vision and our Mission each day.

In memory of Mother Saint John Fontbonne, we acknowledge two 8^th grade students who reflect the qualities of unity, reconciliation, and compassion within the NFA school community. The 2024 recipients of the Mother Saint John Fontbonne 

Award are:

• Gable Michael Carlson
• Noelle Elizabeth Bamford

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Mr. George Aspen was a teacher and principal at Norwood- Fontbonne Academy for forty years. Despite his many duties as a school principal, Mr. Aspen steadfastly held on to teaching one class of eighth grade Algebra I. He was a gracious, devoted, and beloved teacher. While achievement was important, Mr. Aspen valued students who were Prepared, diligent, and respectful of lessons in math class. The George M. Aspen Memorial Mathematics Award is presented to students who possess the qualities that Mr. Aspen valued - Prepared, diligent and respectful of lessons in math class.

The 2024 recipients of the George Aspen Award are:

• Madelyn Eve Kolb
• John William Greenawalt, V
• Thomas Kirk Bland

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The Sister Mary Helen Beirne Award

This evening we acknowledge students who consistently strive for “the More” in academics, co-curricular activities, and in day-to-day NFA school life. These students make intentional effort to live the Mission of the Sisters of St. Joseph by making relationships with peers and teachers a priority.

The 2024 Sister Mary Helen Beirne Award is presented to:

• Madison Rose Jackson
• Levi August Harley Boles

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For Service in CSC

Community Service is a hallmark of Norwood-Fontbonne Academy. This award is presented to the 8th grade students who actively participated in service, and in particular the NFA Community Service Corps, during their 8th grade year.

These young men and women have touched the hearts and lives of countless individuals through their gifts, talents, and heartfelt desire to serve God and one another and to change the world. The spirit and love with which they have served is a great witness to the love of Jesus.

We invite these young men and women to come and receive your plaques. Please hold your applause until all names have been called.

Noelle Bamford Rhys Barr Caroline Bender Levi Boles Donovan Chalila Jay Churchill Ava Cleary Jonah Cohen Kian Edwards Pete Egginton Jill Gordon Conrad Gravener Lliam Greenawalt Ella Holley

Maddie Kolb Jack Krzywicki Neely Lesovitz Robert Louka Diana Manges Lucy McDevitt Nina Meierdiercks Billy Murphy Ethan Nienhuis Lexi Schoen Ryan Smith Emma Strenger Samantha Travers Catalina Urrutia-Lozano

 

"Good evening, thank you to all of you for being here. My name is Maddie Kolb and I am a 2024 NFA graduate. I have been at NFA for nine years and over that time I have seen our class grow and create amazing memories. None of that would’ve been possible without all of our amazing teachers, families, the NFA administration, and all of the other people that have supported us throughout our time at NFA. We are so grateful for all you have done, and we owe so much of our success to you.

Through our years at Norwood we have all learned how to live out the vision and mission of the Sisters of Saint Joseph. We have enjoyed learning through all of the lessons our teachers have taught us. We have treasured ourselves by trying new sports and activities to find what we like. We have helped others and the earth by participating in service. We have lived gospel values by learning about our religion through different teachers and by going to religious events like liturgies. We have made reflective choices by learning to better ourselves through the model of the sisters of saint joseph. All of these experiences have made us into the people we are today. And we will all continue to live out the NFA vision and SSJ mission as we go to our various high schools.

But before we all leave NFA I want to remember all of the amazing experiences we have been a part of the last few years. Most people here have played at least one sport during their time at NFA and many of those sports have accomplished a lot in this time. From winning championships to just making amazing memories all of our teams have done amazing jobs throughout these last few years. Many people have also been a part of drama and many clubs. Through these activities we have learned new skills and uncovered many different passions. Many of us have also made many academic achievements through this time with a large number of students receiving awards at the recognition assembly for numerous essays, grades, and more. Our class has also been a part of many memorable traditions such as the New York trip, the Christmas tea, the egg drop, and more. 

As we all remember the past we must also take time to think about the future. In the fall, we will all move on to our respective high schools. Some of us will be with people we know and others will be with all new people. But even though we are leaving each other we are all going to remember everything that NFA has taught us, all the memories we have made, and most importantly the people we have grown up with.

And even though moving on may feel a bit scary, I want everyone to remember that there are always people you can rely on. Maybe it’s your parents or your peers around you or maybe it’s someone you have yet to meet. But if NFA has taught me anything, it is that you can always rely on your neighbor, your community, and yourself to guide you. So always trust in who you are and what you decide is right. Never stop reaching for your goals and taking chances because if you want something you have to try and sometimes struggle to achieve it. Because in the end it all comes down to what you decide, what you do, and who you want to be. Congratulations to the class of 2024!"