Winter 2020 4

Vol. 29, No. 2 St. Louis, Missouri - Fall 2020-2021 sjathevoice.org

2 The Voice: Fall 2020
Table of Contents:
Switching to
Level 2
5
With Liberty and
Justice (For Whites)
9
4
Coronavirus: the
Good News You’ve
Been Waiting For
6-8
Let’s Stay Socially
Aware about Social
Justice
the
VOICE
The Voice is published quarterly during the school year. All articles and photographs can only be reprinted
with the permission of The Voice. The Voice welcomes letters to the editor, but will not print letters submited
anonymously. We are also online at sjathevoice.org.
Mission Statement
The duty and mission of The Voice is to share news with the St. Joseph’s Academy community through honest,
unbiased and entertaining reporting. The Voice strives to give St. Joe students a voice through the publication
of student-produced articles and seeks to serve as a forum for free discussion among students. The Voice fosters
the development of students into values-driven women leaders by providing them with opportunities to discern
their own views on issues facing both the school and the larger community.
Moderator
Mrs. Amy Summers
Editor-in-Chief
Megan Wilcutt
Print Editor
Sophie Gloriod
Digital Editor
Anna Carollo
Print Layout Editor
Lauren Bowers
Digital Layout Editor
Mary Dill
Sports Editor
Grace Becker
Public Relations
Maggie Mays
Social Media Editor
Rosie Johnson
Art Editors
Haley Pruett, Megan Tung, and
Hanna Dressing
Photo Editor
Claire Price

The Voice: Fall 2020 3
Alumna Making
a Profound Impact
on the World
12
From Freshman
to Seniors: Evolving
Through the Years
5
10-11
Youth Voters
Potentially
Instigating Change
13
Monumental
Moments in
High Schol
16
Taking the
Next Step
A Letter from the Editor
Dear Readers,
As I’m sure we all can agree, our world is changing right before our eyes. From the presidential
election to coronavirus to social justice movements, everyday it seems something new is popping up in
“Breaking News” as we watch our world being turned upside down. Our world is nothing like it was a
year ago, and will probably never be the same again. So as a whole, we’ve begun to take life day by day,
embracing the change but bracing ourselves for the journey.
With all these changes, it’s important to reflect on what they mean to you and your personal
growth. As teenagers, we typically outcast ourselves away from real change, constantly being told we’re
too young and too dumb to be part of it. However, we hold the future in our hands, and with it the power
to mold it however we wish. This print issue is inspired by these changes in the world, both small and
large. As you read these articles, we invite you to recognize your position in the future and begin to make
your profound impact on the world.
Nevertheless, while we hope this catalyzes conversations amongst you, please remember to keep
an open mind and lead with compassion. Our opinions and endeavors in this world may differ, but, in the
end, we all deserve to be treated with the utmost respect, dignity, and kindness. With that in mind, it’s
time to be the change you wish to see in the world.
Megan Wilcutt
Editor-in-Chief ‘21

4 The Voice: Fall 2020
The Coronavirus: The
Good News You’ve
Been Waiting For
By Maggie Mays
It is hard to believe that we
will soon surpass the marking of one
year since the first reported case of
COVID-19 in Wuhan City, China.
Although the newly formed virus has
had a multitude of devastating effects
in our communities, our country, and
in the world as a whole, there are new
studies and research being surfaced
each day; while it is easy to become
bogged down on everything we have
lost or missed out on due to the fastspreading,
highly contagious disease,
there are more and more updates of
good news and progress made by our
incredible medical field each and every
day.
First of all, there is a reported
number of a total of 28.4 million people
around the world who have recovered
from the disease. Although health
experts do not know for sure how long
immunity lasts or if catching the illness
once offers full immunity protection,
there are very few documented cases
of anyone catching the virus twice.
This offers hope to medical researches
and to all of us that herd immunity
can be deemed possible, and with so
many already through the disease,
an attainable goal. Not only can herd
immunity allow us to go back to life
as usual sooner rather than later, but it
also allows us to protect the vulnerable
members of our society from catching
this virus that could have fatal effects
on their bodies.
The good news is that even if
herd immunity does not last as long
as the medical professionals hope for
it to, tests are already up and running
for a vaccine. Although vaccines
can take years to be tested and FDA
approved, researchers around the world
are making daily advances to have a
readily available, safe vaccine for the
public hopefully by next year.
According to the New York
Times article on The Coronavirus
Vaccine Tracker, “Researchers are
testing 48 vaccines in clinical trials
on humans, and at least 89 preclinical
vaccines are under active investigation
in animals.”
According to the article, there
are three phases in which a vaccine
must undergo to be made ready for
widespread public use. Phase one
consists of human testing on a small,
limited number of people. Phase two
consists of testing on hundreds of
people, and phase three includes testing
of thousands. After phase three, some
countries may release early or limited
approval. For example, China and
Russia have given early permission
for use of the coronavirus vaccine.
However, many medical experts will
say that they are taking quite a risk
with approval this early on in the
process.
Researchers and medical
professionals are not the only ones with
determination for the pandemic to slow.
Juniors Gretchen Helmsing and Vivian
Conran have expressed their hopes for
life to get back to a new normal.
“I hope that someday soon we
will be able to get back to our normal
lives. I miss being able to hug my
friends and I really hope it will get
better soon!” Vivian said.
Keeping up with research and
information on the pandemic daily,
Gretchen hopes to be reunited with her
fellow angels in the future.
“I’m glad that we are all able to go to
school together again, even if it’s not
the same as before. I have high hopes
that an eventual vaccine will prevent or
at least slow the spread of things,” she
said.
Various medical institutions
are in the process of testing, and some
are already in phase 3 of the timeconsuming
process. Researchers at
the medical school at Washington
University here in St. Louis have
already begun human testing with a
newly formed vaccine. According to
an article on the university’s medical
school website, they are hoping to
conduct a phase three trial of about
three thousand people.
The article, COVID-19
Trials to be Conducted at Washington
University, St. Louis, Missouri, states,
“The COVID-19
Prevention Network will
participate in large-scale
phase 3 vaccine trials that
will enroll thousands of
participants from across
the U.S. or in some cases
around the world to
determine whether the
vaccines can prevent
COVID-19 disease.”
Although it will have to go
through an additional process in order
to become government and healthdepartment
approved, our country is on
the right track to herd immunity thanks
to our prestigious medical professionals
all over. Even though many grievances
have come along with the coronavirus,
the research and medical progress
in the making reassures the fact that
an end will come eventually, and
hopefully sooner than we imagine.

The Voice: Fall 2020 5
Sahiti Mumghandi and Megan Crane studying
- socially-distanced style! in the Commons
It’s hard to think positively in the midst of a global
pandemic. Each day, new stress is added to our lives,
knowing we have to wear masks and socially distance
ourselves from every person we encounter. However,
Coronavirus has taught us one very important lesson: we
took many things for granted pre-pandemic. Reflecting
back on simpler times before the virus, we think about
the daily hugs and interactions, the absence of masks and
hand-sanitizer, and sitting next to a friend catching up
over lunch or an iced coffee. Our school environment has
changed dramatically as well to provide for the safety
and well-being of the SJA community. There were many
changes implemented when the school transitioned from
allowing half of the alphabet to be in school half the week,
to allowing everyone back at the same time. The faculty
and staff meticulously planned each step of the plan for
this school year. Not only is there additional cleaning, but
there was also careful planning to ensure less density in
classrooms, traffic flow in hallways and brainstorming the
“what-if’s” and worst-case scenarios that became the basis
for setting rules and guidelines to keep everyone healthy
and safe.
Ensuring that St. Joe is clean is essential to letting
people in the building, and allowing us to be back in
school. The St. Joe Maintenance Staff plays a critical role
in carrying out the new Covid requirements. Specifically,
they work to clean and disinfect surfaces, and areas we
frequently use, including the gym, classrooms, and desks.
During Spring Break, maintenance took extra efforts to
complete a thorough cleaning and disinfecting process.
Jeff, the maintenance supervisor, explained the numerous
challenges that come with cleaning the school. “Making
sure the facilities are still safe, along with cleaning, the
challenges are great because of social distancing, moving
the desks was a lot of work,” Jeff stated. “We take pride
in helping the students and teachers feel comfortable, and
making sure that everything is up to par and people feel
secure in the classrooms. ”
What many students don’t think about is the work
that goes on behind the scenes as it relates to the schedule
and planning for the school year with the challenge
of the virus. The planning was divided into different
committees, or “task forces,” to prevent it from being too
overwhelming.
Dr. Davidson was included in one of these
committees, called the Academic Task Force, along with
other faculty members. The Academic Task force sought to
decide the way the schedule should be organized.
“We needed a schedule that could be adjusted from
the chance of us being 100% at home to hybrid, to level
2, to normal. It had to be a schedule that could shift, and a
schedule that could reduce stress,” said Dr. Davidsom
To prevent stress, block days were scheduled, and
M.O.R.E days gave everyone a chance to get a break in the
middle of the week to catch up on work. Other task forces
included the Activity Task Force, which worked on keeping
the community connected, and the Connectivity Task
Force, which ensured communication between members of
the school, and worked to keep the school connected.
For the most part, students are glad to be back
in person, and in a normal routine such as junior Sahiti
Mumghandi.
“I think moving from level 3 to level 2 was
a bigger impact on me because I was able to see my
classmates and teachers more regularly and in person,
said Sahiti. “The hardest thing for students is managing
schoolwork, keeping up with zoom, and finishing
assignments.”
It’s safe to say, we are all glad to be back and
recognize and appreciate all of the work that goes into
making SJA a safe and productive environment for
learning. Who would have thought that we would be doing
school via zoom calls at home without being able to have
face-to-face contact with friends and teachers. Thank you
to everyone in the SJA community who worked so hard to
bring the SJA Angels back to campus!

6 The Voice: Fall 2020
Let’s Stay Socially Aware about Social Justice
By Rosie Johnson
Art by Lauren Bowers
and Haley Pruett

The year 2020 was a year that most people would
never have expected, especially with all of the events that
unfolded. Yes, not all things that have transpired this year have
gone to plan for the social agenda, but sometimes plans must
be revised in order to adapt to a new message being spread
throughout the world. What if we decided to put aside the
dampered lens of 2020 and look at the world in a brighter light
to not only become more socially aware but also create a goal
for social change?
First of all what is social justice? Social Justice is:
“fair treatment of all people in a society, including respect for
the rights of minorities and equitable distribution of resources
among members of a community.” According to dictionary.
com.
Social Justice is a topic that is not taken lightly at St.
Joseph’s Academy. The school offers the classes: Social Justice
(Junior year), Women and Gender’s Studies (Senior year), and
Voices of Human Rights (Senior year).
Senior Olivia Seidner is a student in Women and Gender’s
Studies, commonly known as “WAGS.”
“In class we talk about a countless number of
social justice issues regarding government involvement,
discrimation, and ongoing social issues that are constantly
resurfacing in daily life and the media.” she said.
Senior Olivia Hampton also finds the class
“interesting” and recommends it to others.
“I like being able to discuss real issues with girls in
my class and have intellectual conversations with my peers
who are interested in topics that often involve race, gender,
sexuality, and social norms,” she said.
Furthermore, there are many extracurricular
activities and clubs that allow students to get involved in their
community by providing a multitude of service opportunities
and group discussions to bring awareness to social justice
movements, including Diversity Club and Angel Outreach.
But what movements can you get involved in?
As the world continues to evolve and become more global,
social justice is always going to exist; therefore, having a voice
for each concern is extremely important to have, especially in
a world where many voices are often ignored and silenced.
Below are some social justice movements and issues
to pay attention to in 2020. Even reading about an issue can
The Voice: Fall 2020 7
bring awareness to oneself. So why not learn more to educate
your mind and find your stance in a world so that you can
bring your voice to whatever cause resonates with you?
Racial Justice
Racial Justice
Racial justice, which has been an ongoing movement
especially recently with broadcasting in the media, fights
against racial discrimination to bring equality to black
Americans as well as other races. For decades, fighting for
equal rights for black Americans has been an ongoing battle.
But due to recent police violence, many have seen this recent
discrimination as a sign for change.. There have been marches,
peaceful protests, fundraisers, educational programs, and
social media recognition that occurred throughout this past
summer. But there is so much more to be done to bring equal
opportunities to marginalized communities. Further reading
please read links below.
https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2020/09/16/supportfor-black-lives-matter-has-decreased-since-june-but-remainsstrong-among-black-americans/
https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2020/10/thenext-reconstruction/615475/
Border Wall/immigration
Immigration is still an issue even though it may not
be the main headline in the news these days. Zoom back
through the past year, President Trump made an executive
order regarding “The Wall.” Constructing the wall was
part of his election plan when running for president back
in 2016, but there was a hard time passing the bill through
Congress. Eventually an Executive Order was declared which
allowed for the planning and construction of the wall. Also
the construction of creating border asylums which has been
a controversial topic due to the past allegations of violating
human rights and separating families miles apart. Lately, the
news has not been reporting as much on border immigration,
but it is still an issue that is highly present, especially in the
southern states of the US.
During late October last year, a few members of the

8 The Voice: Fall 2020
Pro-Life and Pro-Choice: Abortion
The debate about abortion has been a controversy
since the 1970s in the United States Supreme Court especially
since the court case, Roe v. Wade. The Pro-Life movement
devotes itself to bringing a voice to the unborn babies, often
siding with individual states on whether abortions are legal.
The Pro-Choice movement promotes women having a say
in their decision to exercise their rights based on feminine
health care. Each year both movements host events such as
marches and rallies to promote their cause; these protests are
usually peaceful. After the death of Justice Ruth Ginsburg, the
question is how will new Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney
Barret affect the future of abortion in our country? Coney
Barret strongly opposes abortions and future rulings could
alter the legality of having abortions. For more information
about these links may help to learn more.
https://prolifeaction.org/
https://prochoice.org/
https://www.nytimes.com/article/amy-barrett-views-issues.
html
LGBTQ & Sexual Orientation
Every June is Pride Month which remembers the
impact of the uprising: Stonewall Uprising in Manhattan New
York that took place in 1969. Since then, the government has
become more progressive by allowing same sex marriages to
be legal in all states starting in 2015. But there is still much
more that can be done. Discrimination against the LGTBQ
community still continues as well as discrimation against
certain sexual relationships. Many religions do not believe in
same sex marriage; therefore, conflict arises from their view
that these marriages are not morally correct. Read more learn
about the advancements in the movement and read more on the
history below:
St. Joe community traveled to the U.S. and Mexico border for
a special mass recognizing the injustice at the border. One of
those students was senior Corinna Gardner.
“Just being at the border and actually seeing the wall was
crazy,” Corinna said. “Even more stunning was just imagining
what families and individuals go through just to get north.
It was hard thinking about all of the families being broken
up and people being mistreated at the border for no good
reason.”
For more updates continue with the links below:
https://cmsny.org/trumps-executive-orders-immigrationrefugees/
https://www.americanbar.org/groups/public_interest/
immigration/immigration-updates/impact-of-covid-19-on-theimmigration-system/
https://www.aila.org/advo-media/issues/all/featured-issueborder-processing-and-asylum
https://www.aclu.org/news/lgbt-rights/what-todays-supremecourt-ruling-means-for-the-lgbtq-community/
https://www.history.com/topics/gay-rights/history-of-gayrights
Climate Justice
From the forest fires in Australia to the blazes in
California, the environment has definitely been an issue in
recent climate change discussions. Climate change is evident,
as seen through global warming. Our environment is also
showing need for help as beaches and oceans are full of plastic
from far away places, which disturbs and threatens the lives
of many animals. The earth has no physical voice, but it does
communicate through thunder claps and disasters to show
that it deserves respect. We must treat Earth kindly because
we only have one; therefore, we must do our best to keep it
healthy.
https://www.treehugger.com/
https://www.unicefusa.org/mission/climate-change
Gun Control
The debate about gun control has been controversial
lately. Shootings involving citizens and police officers have
made this a hot button topic. According to the United States’
Second Amendment, citizens have the right to bear arms and
that shall not be infringed upon. This second phrase to the
amendment is where the debate lies. Our constitution allows
citizens to own and operate guns though there are many
regulations that must be followed. There have been ordinances
that banned guns throughout certain locations, but many have
been overturned under court order. As the debate continues,
the National Rifle Association (NRA) continues to emphasize
the right to own and use guns. On the other hand there are
many movements and groups that want to end gun violence
by adding restrictions regarding the ownership, operation,
and police involvement with guns. Research more about these
organizations below:
https://www.amnestyusa.org/issues/gun-violence/
https://home.nra.org/about-the-nra/
As you see, there are countless social justice issues
and concerns to become involved.. Find whatever interest
speaks close to heart and use your mind and voice to provide
information to those that may not know. Always remember
that knowledge is power and your voice is the megaphone to
the world. And finally, educate yourself on these topics before
having conversations on them. Being a student at St. Joe your
access to education is the most important tool you can use
and carry with you for the rest of your life. So be confident
and concrete on what you say and always allow for new
perspectives.

The Voice: Fall 2020 9
With Liberty
and Justice
(for
whites)
By Lucy Butsch
Art by Lauren bowers
The following is an editorial by a student. She is expressing her opinion, and not necessarily that of The Voice
nor St. Joseph’s Academy.
There is something everyone should know. We tend to believe that we live in the greatest country in the world,
with liberty and justice for all. That is simply not true. I could remind you that our nation ranks first in incarceration rates,
27th in healthcare and education, and 15th in freedom. We take pride in knowing that we are the world’s superpower, an
affluent, equitable nation. Then, why are people of color in prison for a dime bag of weed, while white women are featured
in People Magazine for opening up their own artisanal edible marajuana shops? It’s time we unpack this label. Let’s dive
into one of the most corrupt social institutions: the criminal “justice” system.
America has the largest number of prisoners, higher than any nation in the world. One out of every 37 American
adults are incarcerated. According to the Sentencing Project, Black males are 2.5 times more likely to be incarcerated
than Hispanic males and six times more likely to be incarcerated than white males. It is appalling that we boast about
how we live in the land of the free, while Nazis can wield torches in the sake of “tradition.” Upon doing some research, I
discovered that the Drug Policy Alliance asserts one in nine Black children has an incarcerated parent. To compare, only
one out of 57 white children has an imprisoned parent. Yes, you should be infuriated.
In 2019, people of color made up only 37% of the population and almost 70% of the prison population. Again,
that is 70% of the prison population. Despite only representing less than half of the nation’s population. It is simply
inhumane. One out of three Black boys born today will be in prison, while only one out of 17 white boys will be.
Why is this the case? You can thank your politicians. In 1986, the United States Congress passed the Anti-Drug Abuse
Act, designating more than $1 billion for the War on Drugs efforts, specifically the mandatory minimum, or the law
that requires offenders to be imprisoned for a certain time due to the certain crime they commited. According to the
University of Iowa’s Institutional Repository, any person in possession of 50 or more grams of a cocaine based substance,
indisputably received a 10- year sentence without parole. Because almost 80% of those afflicted with a crack addiction
were Black, the “crack statute” led to an unequal increase in imprisonment for nonviolent drug offenders. Even if a white
person were to have crack cocaine on them and be charged, their sentence would still be lesser for a Black person with the
same offense. Think about that. After the mandatory minimum was introduced, there has been nearly one million arrests
each year for drug possession, with the target, of course, being Black people. The number of prisoners in the United States
has increased by 700% since 1970. What is even more horrifying, is that the crime rate has barely risen.
Institutionalized racism weaved in the fabric of our society is at fault. It is disgusting that, according to the ACLU,
Black people in certain states were six times more likely to be arrested for marijuana possession than whites. Again,
that’s six times. There is no other excuse for this than the prevailing notion of white supremacy. Prejudices perpetuated
and endorsed by Americans inevitably is incorporated into schools, churches, courts, and the institution of government
itself. Once the beliefs are spread, this hate shapes public policy and in turn changes the lives of all Americans. Prisoners
are denied from democratic processes and endure punishment rather than rehabilitation. Ex-convicts are challenged with
47,000 federal barriers when seeking employment, as many companies refuse to hire them even after their sentence.
Therefore, due to antiquated legislation, and racism instilled in some Americans, mass incarceration remains an
unfortunate reality. Facing our racial reality is elemental in the pursuit of progression and change. We must ask ourselves:
how did we let this happen and why do we stay silent?

10 The Voice: Fall 2020
Youth Voters Potentially
Instigating Change
By Anna Carollo
With the Black Lives Matter movement gaining followers this summer,
and the different attitudes regarding maintenance of COVID-19, the 2020
presidential election has been highly publicized regarding the possibility
of not only changing the man in office, but also shifting which party is
in control of Washington D.C. Between the Democratic and Republican
parties, constant controversy continues to stir concerning issues of racism,
abortion, climate change, and economics. This election has the possibility
of initiating dramatic alterations to the United States, especially due to the
majority of young Americans with the ability to vote.
Foremost, the obvious possible change revolves around the
President of the United States. Between Donald Trump and Joe Biden, this
election will reveal whether Republican values keep control or whether
the Democratic Party will claim victory over the White House. To begin,
while both parties differ, they both share the common goal of achieving
the American dream and providing economic opportunities without
discrimination. Trump stresses reopening schools and businesses as soon
as possible regarding COVID-19, not raising taxes, and advocating more
spending to infrastructure. The Trump administration does not care much
for climate-friendly practices, which is notable. On the other hand, Biden
emphasizes taking more cautionary measures before reopening during this
pandemic, raising minimum wage (therefore, raising taxes), and enforcing
sustainability in terms of construction in the United States. These few beliefs differ
dramatically, and if Biden is elected as president, major changes will undoubtedly take
place.
A never-seen-before possibility is also the chance of America having its first
female vice president, Kamala Harris. Harris currently is a California Senator running with
Joe Biden. Not only will Harris fill a historical role in history if elected, but also another
question arises: will a female leadership role in Washington D.C. help bring more
female opportunities to women all across the United States?
Senior Lizzie Edwards hopes so.
“Personally, I like that females are getting more recognition
regarding politics,” she said.
Biden’s decision to run with a female
undoubtedly has swayed some support to
his side in hopes of increased gender
equality.
Additionally, the
number of young
voters strongly
outnumbers the
number of
older voters.
Young voters

The Voice: Fall 2020 11
account for about half of the voting population today. Essentially, young voters have the opportunity to become
a driving force in initiating change, whether that consists of voting for the current administration in
office or for the Democratic Party. Young people’s votes will be especially vital in determining
who claims victory after the election. Plus, the majority of youth voters possess different
beliefs than their elders, which only emphasizes the necessity of youth voting even
more. Therefore, if college students and young adults simply show up to polls
and fill out their ballots, their voice- although one of many- can majorly
impact the future of the U.S. government.
This importance of young voters also stems from the great
diversity among younger Americans. By casting their votes, young
Americans represent their race, ethnicity, gender, and age for the United
States, which is a feature specific to America. The United States oftentimes
is referred to as the “melting pot,” meaning Americans stem from different
nationalities. This diversity needs to be heard, and voting is the perfect way
to voice these thoughts. Voting gives diversity a chance to change unequal
social structures that may be causing discrimination among a majority of
the American population.
Lastly, a young voter’s concern regarding American politics
will change over the course of four years. Consider all the 18-year-old
voters who still rely on their parents. By the next presidential election,
these 18-year-old men and women will be 22 years old. Senior Michele
Origliasso imagines things will change.
“I am positive that by the time I am 22 years old, I will be much
more independent, and I will begin to provide for myself through
employment and housing, which is why I care about voting now,” she said.
Over the course of four years, the way of life for young voters will
change dramatically. Even with 22-year-old Americans, they may be single
now, but they could be married in four years. Their decision to vote now
can change the policies and laws that they will be paying for and supporting
later. While it may not seem relevant now, in four years, a voter’s decision will
matter, and that decision will affect a person’s livelihood including: the price of
taxes, the quality of air, the wage gap between women and men, and diversity in the
workplace. Right now, voting is the key way to work for change in the future.
Altogether, the outcome of the 2020 presidential election has the possibility of
dramatically transforming the future of America. This necessity to vote is more important
than ever due to the rising numbers of young voters and the strong contradictions among the
Democratic and Republican Party. While Donald Trump and Joe Biden
both hope to lead America enforcing different
policies and areas of focus, both
share a common desire to better
America as a whole. The key
to determining the future
of America lies in the
capability of Americans
casting a vote.
Art by
Haley
Pruett

12 The Voice: Fall 2020
Alumna Making
a Profound Impact
on the World
By Sophie Gloriod
Chrissy Dunne Epstein, during her senior year at SJA in 1981,
smiling with her friends in senior hall. Chrissy is in the center, flashing
St. Joe strives to create strong values
driven female leaders, and has been doing
so since the school was founded in 1840.
Not only are the students strong leaders
while walking the halls of SJA, but also
throughout their entire lives. Chrissy
Dunne Epstein, Class of 1981, has used the
values she learned during her time at St.
Joe throughout her entire life to change the
world for the better.
Chrissy Epstein dedicates her time
to working for a nonprofit organization
called The Board of Visitors that works
with a women’s charity to raise funds for
healthcare needs of women, children and
elderly in Phoenix, Arizona. She also
provides administrative support to a new
nonprofit that will fund construction of
the camera a peace sign.
much needed permanent affordable and supportive housing in Arizona. This helps women who cannot pay their bills,
afford housing or child support to find suitable places to live. It also allows for the construction of these houses to be done
in an eco-friendly and sustainable way- bettering the Phoenix environment.
Chrissy has held the St. Joe values in her heart since her years at SJA that have led her in her journey to change
the world.
“St. Joe enables you to think critically, make the best decisions you can, try new things, learn from any mistakes
and be confident to always give your very best,” she said. “I’ve tried to instill these values along with the importance of
volunteering in my children from a young age.”
The St. Joe motto of Not I but We has stuck with Chrissy her entire life, inspiring her to work for different
organizations that help others.
“Being surrounded by incredible women-classmates and teachers for four years who support [its students] in all
endeavors enabled me to open my mind, get to know myself-my strengths and weakness, challenge and push myself, and
to learn from mistakes but never give up. The four years at SJA gave me the confidence and tenacity to embark on my
future,” Chrissy says.
Chrissy reflects on many of her favorite courses from her time at St. Joe. She particularly remembers Anatomy
and Biology with Sr. Pat -- “where we did dissections”--, math class with Sr. Ann Agnes and reading On Death & Dying
by Elisabeth Kubler Ross in Theology class.
“That was such enlightening material at the time and continues to be,” she said.
She also loved Mission Week and the friendly competition between classes. The extreme school spirit and being
able to raise funds for the Missions was, and still is, the best part.
St. Joe fostered Chrissy’s love for service and making change in the world. Chrissy loved her senior service
project, which she claimed was “eye-opening and empowering.”
St. Joe gave Chrissy the ability to meet new people and create strong bonds with her fellow Angels. St. Joe also
helped Chrissy find her voice and become the strong leader that she is today.
Chrissy has taken the values she learned at St. Joe and uses them in her daily life. St. Joe planted the seed of love
for service in Chrissy’s heart, inspiring her to dedicate her time to helping women who don’t have a place to live, don’t
have enough money to pay their bills, or don’t have child support. Chrissy is making a difference and an impact on the
world by using her time to help those around her and create a better life for the less fortunate in Phoenix.

The Voice: Fall 2020 13
Monumental points in high school act as a roadmap from whom you once were to whom you are going to be.
Some of these moments include one’s first day as a freshman, finally getting that driver’s license, the either much dreaded
-- or much needed -- sophomore switch, to the receiving of the coveted junior ring, the last day as a senior, and, of course,
graduation. These are only a few of the many monumental points in high school.
Being a freshman can seem intimidating at first. But to get through it, you just have to keep a positive attitude and
try to make as many friends as possible along the way. And almost every girl has dreamed about getting her learner’s or
driver’s license. It means you finally have freedom… kind of. It is a milestone that many girls are excited to reach.
Nina Kreikemeier agrees that freshman year can be “crazy,” but that she doesn’t know high school any other way!
“I am really just embracing it and trying to make the most of it,” Nina said.
Bailey Brian said that this year as a freshman is “definitely not how she pictured” high school.
“There is absolutely no way that I even thought I would have to recognize people by the top half of their face,
or that it would feel super awkward every time I took a drink of water,” Bailey laughed. “But even though this is all not
ideal, I think that the Class of 2024 has been given a year like no other as our first year of high school, and that we’ll
definitely have an interesting story to tell to future generations!”
As for sophomores, many face the commonly-known sophomore switch,where friend groups change. You just
need to keep a positive attitude and outlook upon life. And just because you are not in a “friend group” with someone,
does not mean you cannot stay friendly with them. The sophomore switch is not a moment of losing friends, but rather
finding yourself and true friends.
As high school progresses, you grow closer to the day all St. Joe girls covet: junior ring. Junior ring is an event
that most Catholic high schools take part in, but is especially monumental at St. Joe. After graduation, and maybe
even after college, in St. Louis at least, you will always get asked this question: “Where did you go to high school?”
Throughout life, you will be able to instantly make a new friend when you see another woman sporting the gorgeous green
and gold St. Joe ring. Wearing the junior ring allows you to carry all of your high school memories with you throughout
your lifetime.
The last days of one’s senior year will definitely bring on the senioritis. Sitting in your classes and seeing your
teachers and friends for the last time can definitely bring some tears, but this just means that you made it through high
school. Which brings you to graduation, a chance to finally say a goodbye and embark on future plans. It is a chance to
feel good about the fact that you made it through high school, and have such an eventful life ahead of you.
Senior Sophie Gloriod finds approaching graduation to be bittersweet. As a freshman, she was “so scared to try new
things.”
“I didn’t want to make any mistakes or be seen as weird, so I didn’t do a lot of clubs that I wanted to,” she said.
“However as I met new people and slowly but surely tried new things, I realized that SJA is filled with amazing people
and opportunities and I shouldn’t be afraid to step out of my comfort zone. St. Joe has really taught me that the best person
I can be is myself.”
Now, as you finish off your high school career, embrace these monumental moments. They only happen once, so
enjoy them to the fullest. Each of these moments will change you as a person up until the very last one. When it is finally
your turn to graduate, you’ll be able to look back on these occasions and marvel at your personal growth.
The Class of 2022,
current juniors, with
Mrs. Worrall
freshmen year.

14 The Voice: Fall 2020
From Freshman to Seniors: Evolving Through the Years
By Lauren Stadnyk
The Class of 2021 has been shrugging off
the phrase, “Take advantage of your high school
years, they go by so fast,” until recently. The seniors,
being newly inducted as the leaders of St. Joe, are
discovering their responsibilities as role models for the
underclassmen. Since they are aware of what can be
expected over the four years at the academy, they are
always open to give meaningful advice.
The seniors’ intention is to foster strong and
prepared women who can successfully take their place
in the future. High school is full of ups and downs, and
the seniors know this better than everyone. Students
can find themselves in sticky situations, which is why
it’s always necessary to ask for help from someone
that knows the ropes.
1. Get to know the basics of St. Joe before anything
else. Let’s get the simple stuff out of the way first. The
first number of each classroom is the floor it’s located
on. Make your way up to college advising for kitchen
amenities or advice. Remember to tuck your shirt
in. Drink Cup of Joe! Dip-n-dots are located in the
cafeteria coolers. Save up for Mission Week apparel.
Sports are known to be remarkable in the St. Louis
area. Make sure to attend dance parties outside during
lunch. Read the school newspaper and get involved in
the community!
2. Don’t take the four years for granted. While it
may be a cliche phrase, high school does go by in
the blink of an eye. One moment you’re a scared
freshman searching aimlessly for your classes, and
the next minute, you’re a senior wearing yellow
shirts and enjoying special privileges. This being said,
each student should spend every moment to the
fullest. Attend every pep rally, sing every cheer, don’t
complain about a boring class, and work hard during
every sports season, because it all comes to an end.
When the seniors are gone, they will have to rely on
the younger students to keep up the SJA spirit. So,
make sure to dress up on spirit days and go all out. It’s
more fun when everyone participates (Cheering can
be awkward but it’s always a good icebreaker). School
is often stressful, but focusing on the good aspects of
community and celebrations brings an immeasurable
amount of pride toward an individual’s school.
Senior Grace Becker, a Spirit Club Officer, can
often be found rallying spirit at St. Joe, making every
moment count.
“Pep rallies are such an amazing way to
get involved,” Grace said. “It makes school more
enjoyable and creates a closer bond between our SJA
community. It always puts a smile on my face to see
the girls cheering together in the stands.”
Grace Becker
greeting students
as they make
their way into
school.
Photo from St.
Joe Instagram
3. Express gratitude towards friends and family. Most
high school students are consumed with growing up.
We all just want to be older. However, college is a
whole new wave of responsibility, and you’re going
to wish you spent more time focusing on the good
days. You might find that you actually miss your dog,
your parents, and maybe even a sibling. You will miss
your own bathroom, your mom’s famous cooking, and
even little things like having your laundry done for
you. Parents can pretty much be miracle workers when
it comes to these important tasks, and it’s important
to thank them for it. As you get older, the sacrifices
they made for their children become more evident. In
addition, friends are what really make our high school
years fun. They keep us motivated, and it’s hard for
seniors to part with these people who have been such
a vital part of their lives. St. Joe Angels are connected
forever, not only by their emerald green rings, but also
the unifying memories they share.
Senior Riley Morris explains the positive impact
her friends and family have had on her over the past
years.
“My friends have really helped me be able to

grow as a person and make incredible memories,”
Riley said. “My family always pushes me to stay
involved and work my hardest. Both have made St. Joe
an incredible experience and have shaped me into the
person I am today.”
4. Focus on yourself, not your image.
Don’t try to follow in someone else’s
footsteps because, ultimately,
it’s not possible. Every student
has their own unique talents
and perspectives to offer in
the community. If you’re a
natural at acting, try out for the
play. If you have a tremendous
academic ability or like Jeopardy!,
join Scholar Bowl (P.S. these
activities also look good on college
applications). You don’t need a spray
tan or dyed hair to be beautiful. Take
classes you are interested in, not classes
your friends sign up for. In all, stay true to
your own self and don’t let other people’s
opinions sway your thinking. In addition, don’t forget
about your grades in this social environment. It’s vital
to understand time management and the effects of
procrastination if you don’t want to end up knees
deep in assignments.
Olivia Murphy is actively involved in the
theatre program at SJA currently and played a role
as a cell block tango dancer in the performance of
Chicago last year, but that wasn’t always the case.
The Voice: Fall 2020 15
“Getting involved in theatre has allowed me
to grow in confidence and learn to embrace my
talent,” Olivia said. “Going into St. Joe as a freshman,
I pursued sports, but I’m glad that I branched out to
participate in such an amazing experience. I wouldn’t
change my decision for the world.”
5. Get involved. Not only is getting
involved in St. Joe’s community
an easy way to meet people, but
it’s important for your college
applications. Everyone is good
at something. Find an activity or
club you are passionate about
and make it your own. There are
no excuses, since there’s a club for
almost everything here. Let’s name a
few: Cup of Joe, Scholar Bowl, Future
Business Leaders of America, Joebotics,
St. Joe T.V., The Voice, Harry Potter and
British Humor Club, Frontenac Voices,
athletic teams, Diversity Club, Beta Chi Pi
Honor Society, Campus Ministry, and Student
Council (That was a mouthful). Help out with the
auction or open house. They always need help and it’s
a good way to get service hours. Seniors often express
they wished someone told them to get involved
earlier when it comes time to apply to college
and create resumes. Build it up early to get that
acceptance letter or notable scholarship. Focus on
your grades as well by communicating with teachers.
St. Joe has many extraordinary teachers who will drop
anything to help a student. Forming relationships with
them makes school a lot more enjoyable. It’s a plus to
have faculty to talk to and receive wisdom from.
Bella Buebendorf recognizes the importance of
building community at St. Joe to her by participating
in clubs like Diversity Club, St. Joe T.V., Beta Chi Pi,
Rho Kappa, and Spanish Honors Society.
“Joining clubs allowed me to discover my
hidden interests and build community,” Bella said.
“They encourage students to open up their social
circles and meet new friends with similar interests.”
Olivia Murphy performing her monologue in St.
Joe’s adaptation of “Chicago”
Photo provided by Olivia Murphy
With all these tips in mind, spend the rest of
your time at St. Joe embracing your personal growth.
Change is inevitable, so lean into it and make it for
the better. Make new friends, try the new club, and
never forget to look back at who you once were
compared to where you are now. Before you leave
these hallowed halls, prepare yourself to make your
own profound impact on the world.

16 The Voice: Fall 2020
As seniors close one chapter of their life, they begin a new chapter with even more opportunity than the
last. It seems as if just yesterday we were tiny freshmen, worrying about minute things such as if we were going
to make it to class on time or who we would sit with at lunch. However, high school ends, and it’s time to move
on to bigger and better things, as cliché as it may sound. It is time for us to
be the tiny, worried freshmen again. However, we don’t have to be worried
about college! It’s an amazing opportunity to branch out and become who
we’re meant to be.
Although it may bring stress, college is also a chance for students
to practice their independence, try something new, and experience real life.
It is a chance for new opportunities and meeting new people. College has
so much to offer us. From sororities to studying abroad, everyone has a
place at college, and you will find it.
When asked about how she is feeling about making the switch to college,
senior Lauren Bowers said it has been “an emotional rollercoaster.”
“I think the most daunting part for me is knowing that I’ll be physically
separated from my family, friends, and St. Joe community that all
became my ‘home’ for me over the past four years,” Lauren said. “Still, I
have a lot of faith that I am well prepared for this new chapter of my life,
and I’m excited for this new experience!”
It is true that the college process can be very daunting, but the
rewards that come with it are worth the long hours spent writing essays,
filling out the common app, and applying.
Senior Sarah Hughes is looking forward to the new adventures college
brings.
“I’m excited for college because I can’t wait to make new friends
and introduce them to my Angel sisters. I’m so excited to grow with them.
It’ll be so fun!” she said.
College can seem daunting to someone who has never experienced it. Getting
insights as to what college is really like can be helpful in easing any
nerves one may have about the experience.
When asked how her college, Missouri State, has offered opportunities
to grow and change SJA alumna, Cathy DePenaloza had lots of
advice for younger students.
“There are so many organizations that you can get involved with
where you can explore interests you have and interests you didn’t know
you had. Also, you get to meet and interact with people from so many different backgrounds and experiences
that change the way you look at the world,” Cathy said.
College may be a big step in life, but it is a step worth taking. It’s important to trust and have faith in
both the process and yourself. Through this time of great change, you will find your place, and the window of
opportunity will open for you.