story by Molly Bird, photos by Maddy Medina

Due to the recent passing of previous principal of student affairs Mary Anne Hoecker, many people who knew her and worked with her are left to reflect on the fond memories that they have of Hoecker.

Hoecker worked at STA for nearly 33 years as a teacher, principal and mentor.

STA teacher Katie Dolan worked with Hoecker for 15 years while Hoecker was the principle of student affairs, but what she will miss most about her is her presence.

“She just exuded a presence of peace,” Dolan said.

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Administrative assistant Julia Berardi agrees saying that Hoecker was not only her boss and mentor, but also her friend.

“She just had a calming effect about her and we could talk about anything without it ever being uncomfortable,” Berardi says.

After working and developing a relationship with Hoecker for eight years, substitute teacher Ed Chronister says that the best thing about Mrs. Hoecker was her smile.

“I’ll miss seeing that smile everyday and her always willing to help me with any problems that I might have,” Chronister said.

When asked what some students may not have known about Hoecker, Chronister answered that it was her extraordinary love for St. Teresa’s and all of the people in it.

“I think she loved the school so much that she herself followed the rules,” Chronister said. “She always tried to show the girls that in her responsible position, she needed to be an example.”

Along with Hoecker’s love, she wasn’t afraid of being who she is according to Dolan.

“While she held people accountable for their actions, she also held herself accountable for her actions and she taught people by example that being who you are is the best way to be in this world,” Dolan said.

Berardi adds that Mrs. Hoecker’s biggest impact on the STA community was her calming effect on everyone.

“I think she was the level and reasonable spirit within our school. I wish everyone was more like her,” Berardi said.

Although Mary Anne Hoecker is unable to be with the STA community physically, she watches over our campus and remains alive in the memories of those who love her.

“When people pass away that you love, you think about all the good times that you had with them and try to share them with other people,” according to Chronister.