In this special episode of the Mount Pack Podcast, student hosts Sarah Habi (‘25) and Maria Pasqua (‘26) sit down with beloved Mount Saint Mary Academy alumnae-turned-faculty members, Ms. Toryak and Ms. Lovallo. Through warm, heartfelt conversations, they explore how the Mount has evolved over the decades—from strict single-file hallway rules and all-Sister faculty to today’s vibrant community rooted in empowerment, inclusion, and innovation.

Listeners get a glimpse into past traditions, current student life, the evolution of female empowerment at Mount, and how returning to teach has deepened their appreciation for the Academy. Whether you’re an alumna, student, parent, or prospective family, this episode captures the heart of the Mount experience across generations.

✨ Top 3 Takeaways:

• 1) Traditions evolve, but the Mount spirit remains timeless. From white gowns on St. Patrick’s Day to today’s ring mass and theater, heritage and innovation go hand in hand.

• 2) Female empowerment is now intentionally cultivated. Where confidence once developed quietly, it’s now part of the curriculum—through clubs, courses, and leadership opportunities.

• 3) Mount faculty care deeply—and personally.Teachers see each student as an individual, fostering emotional, spiritual, and academic growth with heartfelt attention.

  
  

  Timestamps

• 00:00 – Intro by Student Hosts

• 01:20 – Alumni Memories: Life at the Mount in the ‘60s & ‘90s

• 07:10 – Then vs. Now: Rules, Teachers, & Empowerment

• 12:45 – Favorite Classes & Activities from Student Years

• 19:05 – Theater, Music, and Evolving Traditions

• 24:30 – Becoming Faculty: Full Circle Journeys

• 29:50 – Philosophy, AI & New-Age Courses

• 35:00 – Hope Club, Mock Trial, and Student Leadership

• 41:30 – Mount’s Role in Discovering Passions & Talents

• 47:00 – The Power of Student-Led Admissions

• 52:30 – Final Reflections: Why Mount Fosters Thriving Women

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  Mount Saint Mary Academy: Voices of Excellence

  Welcome to Mount Saint Mary Academy: Voices of Excellence, the official podcast of Mount Saint Mary Academy in Watchung, New Jersey.

  Join us as we highlight the achievements, traditions, and stories of the Mount community. Each episode features inspiring conversations with students, faculty, alumnae, and leaders who embody our mission of academic excellence, service, leadership, and faith.

  Whether you're a student, parent, alumna, or prospective family, you'll gain a deeper connection to the vibrant spirit and legacy of Mount Saint Mary Academy.

  Faith. Leadership. Sisterhood. Excellence. This is Mount Saint Mary Academy — where young women are empowered to lead with confidence and compassion.

  🎧 Subscribe now and be part of the Mount journey.

  👉 Visit the Mount — where confidence is cultivated, voices are valued, and every young woman is empowered to thrive.

  Learn more at www.mountsaintmary.org