PUBLISHED ON February 10, 2025
2025 Ochsner Super STEM Student MVPs
Five Chipmunks were chosen as a 2025 Ochsner Super STEM Student MVP, presented by Ochsner Health and The Super Bowl Host Committee! The committee received project submissions from students all across Louisiana and they made it clear that our Chipmunks are student leaders in STEM and that they have developed a strong set of skills in STEM!
Congratulations to the following students for this amazing academic accomplishment:
🌟 Simone Guidry - "I researched and experimented on the question, 'Which physical therapy hand exercises are most beneficial in improving penmanship in a person’s non-dominant hand?' I tested three different groups: hand-eye coordination, hand strength, and sentence repetition. I found that all of the groups produced a positive change in a person's handwriting, but repetition was the most successful."
🌟 Libbey Luminais - "I explored the work of performance trainers, which led me to investigate the impact of ankle weights on hip strength. My research question—'Do exercises involving ankle resistance weights enhance hip strength and balance time in dance?'—was tested through three different exercises using ankle weights, followed by measuring my balance time in a studio setting. Ultimately, I found that performing ankle weight exercises, particularly flutter kicks, led to a noticeable improvement in my balance time, confirming that ankle weights can be an effective tool for dancers aiming to boost strength and stability."
🌟 Alaina Sauvage - "In my project, I investigated the different effects between protein and carbohydrates and their effect on performance in golf. I performed a 2-week long experiment testing energy bars that were protein-based and carbohydrate-based. I recorded my scores each day to see if one showed an increase in performance."
🌟 Rihanna Valle - "My STEM project was testing whether or not plyometric workouts helped increase a volleyball players' jumping vertical. Being a member of the Chapelle volleyball program, I was able to receive the data that was compiled over a 6 month period of 8th, JV, and Varsity's vertical progression. Players worked out multiple times throughout the week and even if injury occurred, once the player was cleared to start working out again, the data showed that their vertical increased."
🌟 Audrey Weider - "Throughout my trials, I discovered how energy drinks and sports drinks affect athlete's reaction times in aerobic exercises. I performed experiments where I had people drink energy drinks and perform an exercise, then I did the same with the sports drinks, and water. I then compared the results to the group of people drinking water, and concluded which group had better reaction time for each drink/person!"
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Victoria McCann Named Best High School Volleyball Player in Louisiana by MaxPreps Archbishop Chapelle High School is proud to celebrate senior Victoria McCann ’27 on being named the Best High School Volleyball Player in the State of Louisiana by MaxPreps heading into the 2026 season. In its national feature, “High school volleyball: Best player in all 50 states heading into the 2026 season,” MaxPreps highlighted top volleyball players from across the country, recognizing one standout athlete from each state. Victoria was selected as Louisiana’s top player, an incredible honor that reflects her talent, dedication, and impact on the court. MaxPreps recognized Victoria, a 6-foot outside hitter, noting that she “heads into 2026 having surpassed the 1,000-kill mark for her career.” This milestone places her among an elite group of high school volleyball players and speaks to her consistency, work ethic, and leadership throughout her Chapelle career. For Victoria and the Archbishop Chapelle High School volleyball program, this recognition is a tremendous achievement. Being chosen as the top player in Louisiana by a national high school sports outlet is a testament not only to Victoria’s individual success, but also to the strength of Chapelle Athletics and the competitive spirit of our student-athletes. Victoria has been a powerful presence for the Chipmunks, leading by example through her athletic ability and commitment to her teammates. As she enters her senior season, she continues to represent Chapelle with excellence both on and off the court. Archbishop Chapelle High School congratulates Victoria on this well-deserved honor and looks forward to cheering her on throughout the 2026 volleyball season. Source: MaxPreps, “High school volleyball: Best player in all 50 states heading into the 2026 season,” by Aaron Williams, published August 13, 2026.
Chapelle Begins the School Year with Mass and Consecration to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus Archbishop Chapelle High School began the new school year in the most meaningful way, gathering together as a school community for a beautiful Mass and the consecration of our school to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. As we enter a new year of learning, growth, faith, and sisterhood, this consecration serves as a powerful reminder that the Sacred Heart of Jesus is our refuge and guide. We pray that His love continues to lead us, protect us, and strengthen our community throughout the year ahead. The morning was filled with several special Chapelle traditions. Our new students received their Chapelle pins and Bibles, marking an important step in their journey as Chipmunks. The senior sweaters were also blessed, celebrating the Class of 2027 as they begin their final year at Chapelle. One of the most memorable moments of the Mass came when the Class of 2027 sang their Senior Song, “Let Us Stay Home,” for the very first time. Their voices filled the space with emotion and joy, making the morning even more special for students, faculty, staff, and families. It was a beautiful beginning to the school year and a reminder of the faith, tradition, and love that make Chapelle such a special place to call home. Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us! Immaculate Heart of Mary, pray for us! Deus Providebit, God Will Provide!
A Sweet Year Ahead for our Big Sis/Lil Sis Program
Preparing Hearts for Consecration On Monday, August 10, Archbishop Chapelle High School had the privilege of welcoming Katie Ibarra ’06 back to campus to speak with faculty and staff as the school prepares for a meaningful beginning to the new school year. Katie delivered a thoughtful and faith-filled presentation in anticipation of Chapelle’s consecration to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, which will take place on Thursday, August 13, during the first school Mass of the year. During her presentation, Katie reflected on what it means for the Sacred Heart to be our refuge. She invited faculty and staff to consider how they can create that same sacred space for our students, one where they feel known, loved, protected, and supported as they grow in faith and confidence. As we enter a new school year, this time of reflection served as a beautiful reminder of Chapelle’s mission to educate young women in a Catholic community rooted in faith, love, and trust in God’s providence. We are grateful to Katie for sharing her wisdom, her faith, and her love for Chapelle with our faculty and staff. As we prepare to consecrate our school to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, please join us in praying that our campus continues to be a place of refuge, growth, and grace for every student who walks through our doors.
Student Council Theme for the 2026–2027 School Year: STUCO Under the Big Top The excitement was impossible to miss as Chapelle Student Council revealed their highly anticipated theme for the 2026–2027 school year: STUCO Under the Big Top! This fun and spirited circus-inspired theme sets the stage for a year full of excitement, creativity, school spirit, and unforgettable memories. The reveal came to life through the colorful costumes of the STUCO Executive Board, with each officer representing a different part of the circus. From the ringmistress to popcorn, cotton candy, and more, the officers brought the Big Top to Chapelle in the most energetic way. Meet the 2026–2027 STUCO Leaders 🎪 President Audrey Dubuc: Dressed as the Ringmistress, Audrey is ready to lead the show and guide Chapelle through a year filled with spirit, service, and exciting events. 🍿 Vice President Victoria McCann: As the popcorn seller, Victoria brought a classic circus favorite to life and reminded everyone that this year is sure to be full of fun, energy, and moments worth sharing. 🦁 Secretary Lauren de la Gardelle: Dressed as a lion with a ring of fire, Lauren represented courage, strength, and the bold spirit STUCO hopes to inspire throughout the year. 🤡 Treasurer Anna Claire Occhipinti: As a circus clown, Anna Claire brought laughter, joy, and playful energy to the reveal, setting the tone for a year filled with smiles and school spirit. 🍭 Historian Sloan Boudoin: Dressed as cotton candy, Sloan added sweetness and color to the theme while preparing to capture all of the special moments that will make this school year one to remember. With STUCO Under the Big Top as this year’s theme, Chapelle students can look forward to a year packed with creativity, connection, and plenty of Chapelle spirit. The curtain is rising on an exciting new school year, and STUCO is ready to make it one for the books!
To all the members of the Class of 2027
Alumna Spotlight: Tara Centanni Reese ’88 Elected President of CCSCC Archbishop Chapelle High School is proud to celebrate Tara Centanni Reese ’88 on her recent election as President of the Council of Catholic School Cooperative Clubs (CCSCC). Tara has dedicated her professional life to education, serving 23 years with Jefferson Parish Public Schools. She currently works as a Master Teacher (Instructional Coach) at Isaac G. Joseph at Stella Worley, a PreK–8 school. For more than a decade, she has served as a Master Teacher in various schools across the parish, mentoring educators and supporting instructional growth. Her commitment to learning began long before her career in education. Tara earned her Bachelor’s degree in Marketing in 1997 and her Master’s in Education in 2006, both from the University of Holy Cross. Beyond the classroom, Tara has consistently stepped into leadership roles within both educational and Catholic communities. She has served as President, Vice-President, and Secretary of the University of Holy Cross Alumni Board, as well as on Chapelle’s Alumnae Board. At St. Clement of Rome, she served as President and Vice-President of the Co-Op Club, and for the past four years, she has been a member of the Hospitality Committee for Chapelle’s Parent Club. Her election as President of the CCSCC comes after 10 years of service on the council, including time as 2nd Vice-President and participation on numerous committees. Reflecting on her time at Chapelle, Tara shares, "Chapelle prepared me both academically and spiritually for the path I have taken. It gave me the skills and confidence to succeed in my profession while instilling the values, faith, and commitment to service that continue to guide my volunteer work." We are incredibly proud of Tara’s leadership, dedication to Catholic education, and continued service to our community. Congratulations on this well-deserved honor!
Alumna Spotlight: Brigid Higgins Van Timmeren ’87 Named Principal of St. Cletus Elementary Archbishop Chapelle High School is proud to celebrate alumna Brigid Higgins Van Timmeren ’87 on her appointment as the new principal of St. Cletus Elementary School. Brigid shared, “It is with great joy and excitement that I become the new principal of St. Cletus Elementary School. My journey in education has been fueled by a commitment to my Catholic values and academic excellence nurtured long ago by my family, close friendships, and the dedicated faculty at Archbishop Chapelle High School.” A lifelong servant-leader, Brigid brings more than 26 years of experience in education and over 30 years in music ministry at St. Rita Catholic Church to her new role. Most recently, she served in leadership positions at Metairie Academy for Advanced Studies and with the Jefferson Parish Talented Music Program, where she mentored teachers and supported students in achieving academic and creative excellence. Brigid’s commitment to Catholic education is rooted in Gospel values and a deep belief in servant leadership. Her dedication to mentoring teachers and forming students spiritually and academically reflects the mission we hold dear at Chapelle. We are incredibly proud of Brigid and the impact she will continue to make in Catholic education. Congratulations, Mrs. Van Timmeren! Our Chapelle family is cheering you on! 💚
