Alumnae Profiles

Kathleen Swiler LaGrange ’71

Independent Security Consultant and Retired Bureau Emergency Manager, U.S. Department of the Interior

As an Emergency Manager, my sense of questioning everything and doing the right thing is what made me a successful leader. I have this sense of handling the worst of events with calm but stern direction. The Dominican nuns who taught me were never unnerved and were great role models for my future. Follow your heart, actively listen, embrace that pregnant pause in conversation, question the norm, and by far enjoy these years.

Laura Massey Hernandez ’96

Family and Child Counselor, Author

My Dominican education nurtured my love of learning and striving for excellence. It taught me to reflect and pray about God's purpose for my life. My Dominican education developed my confidence and desire to help others.

Lauren Dwyer Kenney ’07

Engineer

I would say that choosing Dominican is choosing a path of excellence and personal growth. The education and experiences you'll gain here are unparalleled. You'll be joining a community that supports and challenges you to be your best self, academically and spiritually.

Lorraine Melito Hess ’86

Catholic Composer, Recording Artist, and Music Minister

The faith formation at Dominican was one of the most influential aspects in my ministry as a Catholic artist, composer, and music director. In grammar school, I learned my prayers; but, at Dominican, I learned to pray. Celebrations of the Mass were some of my greatest memories. Dominican was a safe place to be proudly Catholic, and there was comfort with living the truth of the Gospel among hundreds of young women.

Maray Lopez ’96

Department of Homeland Security

The Veritas (Truth) insignia is a worldwide symbol. I have it on my phone case, and from the Southwest border to Europe, people recognize and value it.

Maria Rhodes Reinerth ’70

McDonald's Franchisee

I love that all the Dominican traditions we celebrated always began with a Mass. The celebration of Mass was always available to us during our time as Dominican students. I loved being surrounded by Dominican Sisters who were not only exceptional educators and administrators, but an exceptional example of living our faith with selflessness.

Maria Leon Vallejo ’76

Community Activist

The component of the Profile of a Dominican Graduate that holds the deepest significance for me is Prayer in my Daily Life, rooted in the values of the Gospel. My commitment to daily prayer has become a guiding force in my life, inspiring a lifelong desire and love to grow in my Catholic faith through continued participation in Catholic educational programs.

Mary Baudouin ’74

Provincial Assistant, Jesuits of the US Central and Southern Province

At Dominican High I learned that it was OK to be a strong woman, not afraid to express thoughts, ideas, and opinions. That has been so important in my social justice work which demands that I be an advocate for justice with and for marginalized people even when – and especially when – there are so many dissenting voices trying to drown out the voices of those crying out for equity and belonging.

Molly Mancheski ’16

Pharmacist

Dominican’s education has allowed me to pursue my dream career. The foundation Dominican lays for its students is truly unlike any other.