Spirit of Madonna

Bernadette Sigl

Class of 1964, was honored to receive the Spirit of Madonna Award alongside fellow educators and dear friends. Reflecting on her years at Madonna, she emphasized that the school provided students with more than an education—it instilled confidence, strength, and the belief that young women could achieve anything they set their minds to.

A longtime history educator and department chair, Bernadette shared that her goal was never simply to teach dates and facts, but to help students appreciate the accomplishments of people throughout history and understand the lessons those achievements offer today.

She encouraged everyone to value the friendships, family connections, and everyday moments that bring meaning to life. Concluding her remarks, Bernadette expressed gratitude to the Madonna community and reminded attendees of the lasting impact a Madonna education has on generations of women.

Judge Nancy Schuster Waites

Recipient of the Spirit of Madonna Award, was honored and surprised to receive the recognition alongside Bern Sigl and Madonna Carsello.

A history teacher at Madonna beginning in 1978, Judge Waites encouraged her students to appreciate different cultures and believe in their own potential. She credits Madonna High School with giving her the confidence to pursue her dreams, including attending law school while teaching full-time and raising a family.

Judge Waites describes the Madonna bond as “emotional super glue”—a lifelong connection built on friendship, support, and shared experiences.

“Madonna has always been a special place to me” she says. “I carry Madonna with me every day.”

Madonna Carsello

Accepting the Spirit of Madonna Award, Madonna Carsello, reflected on her decades of service as a history teacher and department chair at Madonna High School. She credited her students with inspiring her throughout her career and recalled the many traditions and friendships that made Madonna a special place.

Bern shared her hope that students left Madonna with a sense of competence, compassion, and contribution—values that guided her teaching and reflected the school’s mission. Thanking generations of students and colleagues, she described teaching at Madonna as “the best career I could have ever hoped for.”

She concluded her remarks with a heartfelt message to her former students: “I hope we served you well.”

Betsy Gerbrecht

2025 Dedication Award Honoree

Executive Director, Madonna Foundation, 2016–2024

The Madonna Foundation proudly recognizes Betsy Garbrecht as the recipient of the 2025 Dedication Award, honoring her outstanding leadership, commitment, and service to the Foundation and its scholars.
Betsy served as Executive Director of the Madonna Foundation from 2016 through 2024, guiding the organization with dedication, compassion, and a deep belief in its mission. Throughout her tenure, she worked tirelessly to strengthen the Foundation, expand opportunities for scholars, and build meaningful relationships with alumnae, donors, schools, families, and friends of Madonna.

More than a leader, Betsy was a champion for the young women served by the Foundation. She understood that a Madonna scholarship represents far more than financial assistance—it provides encouragement, opportunity, community, and the confidence to pursue a brighter future.

Betsy also recognized the importance of keeping the Madonna spirit and legacy alive. Her ability to bring people together helped strengthen the connection between Madonna alumnae and a new generation of scholars, ensuring that the values of education, service, faith, and sisterhood continue to flourish.

Mary Slowik ’83

Stewardship Award 2024

The Madonna Foundation proudly recognizes Mary Slowik, Madonna High School Class of 1983, with the Stewardship Award, honoring her commitment to preserving the spirit of Madonna and supporting its mission for future generations.

Mary exemplifies what it means to remain connected to the Madonna community long after graduation. Through her generosity, involvement, and continued support, she has demonstrated a deep appreciation for the education, friendships, and values that are at the heart of the Madonna experience.

True stewardship is about more than giving—it is about caring for something meaningful and helping ensure that it continues to grow and thrive. Mary has embraced that responsibility by giving back and helping carry forward the traditions and values that have connected generations of Madonna women.

Her dedication is a wonderful example of the lasting Madonna bond—a bond built on friendship, faith, service, and a commitment to lifting up the young women who follow in our footsteps.

Terri Roeslmeier

Dedication Award 2024

Automated Business Design – Owner, Class of 1974

Terri has been a devoted supporter of the Madonna Foundation for many years, passionately carrying forward its mission through her generosity, leadership, and commitment to our young women.
A member of the Madonna High School Class of 1974, Terri discovered her career path at a Madonna career day—an experience that proved to be a game changer for her. Today, she is the Founder and CEO of Automated Business Designs (ABD), a leading staffing software company.

Inspired by her own experience, Terri gives back by hosting career days for our scholars, providing them with the same opportunities that helped shape her future. She also encourages her employees to support the Foundation and generously serves as a premier sponsor of the Madonna Foundation Walk and career programs.

Rosa DeLuna Frede

Stewardship Award 2024

Andersen Tax – Partner, Class of 1991

Rosa De Luna-Frede, a proud member of the Madonna High School Class of 1991, has been a dedicated supporter of the Madonna Foundation and a strong advocate for our students.
Rosa is the Office Managing Director of the Metro Chicago office at Andersen and brings more than 25 years of experience in corporate tax and advisory services. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a commitment to leadership, mentorship, and giving back.

Rosa has generously hosted Career Days for Madonna students, connecting them with professionals and providing valuable insight into careers in accounting and business, as well as future employment opportunities.

Rosa credits her passion for accounting to her Madonna teachers, Ms. Calabrese and Ms. Jepsen, who continue to inspire her to this day. Her dedication to giving back reflects the lasting impact of a Madonna education.

 

The Franciscan Sisters of Chicago

The Founders Award 2024

We thank the sisters for their 50+ years dedicated to educating, inspiring & leading Madonnians. We are thankful for the continuation of our legacy through the Madonna Scholars