Senior Issue 2025 - 2026

The Editor’s Sign Off

Emma Berardelli ‘26 - Co-Chief Editor

As my classmates' and my last few days at Fontbonne roll around, I have found myself taking in every moment, preparing for every goodbye (which better only be “see you laters”), and thanking every person or community that impacted my four years here.

One of the biggest thank-yous I owe is to the Folio. When I first joined my freshman year, this club was a taste into something I had never tried before. While I was warned by my family to not overload on clubs at the freshman year club fair, I am eternally grateful that I did not listen, but instead signed up for everything that excited me, leading me to finding a family in the Folio. 

The excitement that arose in me when I realized I could interview my friends, teachers, alumni, and more made me realize how awesome journalism truly was. And just like that, what once felt new and unfamiliar to me, quickly became something I looked forward to at our club meetings right after the 2:45 bell under the dim fluorescent lights of Mr. Somma’s room. 

Over the past four years, the Folio allowed me to grow as a writer, listener, leader, and editor – of course, I mean I hope! Becoming one of our editor-in-chiefs was truly one of the greatest honors of my past four years. Getting to work alongside amazing writers – old and current – that I call friends has been the best experience. I will forever be grateful to my fellow editors: Tessa, Molly, Gabrielle, and Scarlett, and of course our moderator, Mr. Somma, for the support and work to get every issue out on time. Working with them pushed me to continuously better myself. 

The Folio showed me how a club turns into a mini community of its own, and I am certain this community will continue to flourish next year and beyond. Even though I am sad to close this chapter in my life, the Folio is undoubtedly in good hands, with the younger writers who have already grown into leaders in their own right. Just because I will be in college next year does not mean I will not creep in on the monthly issues that this club works so hard to put out! 

So, as it is time to say goodbye and pass the torch I give my final thank you to the Folio. Thank you for allowing me to grow and connect with others, for teaching me to cram an entire article before 11:59, for giving me a place where I truly felt like I belonged, and – of course – for teaching me grammar rules… Thanks Mr. Somma!

So, with one final revision and sign-off, thank you, Folio.

Tessa Lomoro ‘26 –  Co- Chief Editor

My first Folio meeting took place in Room 202, where Mr. Somma explained the inverted pyramid at the front of the classroom. It was my first club meeting at Fontbonne, and I vividly remember being scared and intimidated, but excited to see what the future would hold for me and my writing. In the back of my mind, I dreamed of being an editor one day. I dreamed of working with these great writers and helping others find their voice through writing. However, senior year felt like a distant future. Freshmen-year me wouldn’t believe that three short years later, she would have the privilege of becoming Co-Editor in Chief of the Folio.

It’s hard to even put into words how much the Folio has meant to me over the past four years (and my job is to put things into words). There are so many parts of Fontbonne that I will remember when I leave in bitter-sweet tears, but one thing that I will always say about the Folio is that it remained my constant. The Folio has been there during each stage of my high school experience and in each moment at school. I have grown as a person, writer, and leader with the Folio in each article, meeting, and conversation. Through each long day at school or test I didn’t do well on in the past four years, my break-away and safe space has always been the Folio, where I have channeled my inner journalist on topics I enjoyed writing about.

However, one of the best parts of this club was the team-effort by everyone involved. My gratitude extends to all of the people that made the Folio our creative outlet for expression. I have been able to both enter and leave each meeting with a smile on my face out of pure appreciation and pride for this club and the difference we make at Fontbonne.

My last Folio meeting took place in Room 434, where I sat at the front of the room and took in each person around me. I saw my fellow editors, Emma, Molly, Scarlett, and Gabby, whose work is the reason the Folio existed this year. I’ve loved our dynamic and leading the club with them this year, and I’m grateful that the Folio bonded us even closer together. I saw Mr. Somma, who I thank for trusting me with this position to begin with and for truly caring about this club all year by choice. Lastly, I looked ahead to the future of the Folio and the talented writers who have made leading this club so easy. Thank you for showing up, for writing every incredible piece, and know that I loved reading/editing each one.

I couldn’t be happier with the individuals who are leading the Folio into the next great chapter and I can’t wait to see the impactful things they accomplish. If there is anything I hope to leave you with, it is this: Fight for your goals and for what you want to accomplish. Fight for the idea you know will make a difference. Care about the rich community that Fontbonne brings and know that the opportunities are endless, even when you might think otherwise. That’s why the first paper issue of the Folio in over many years is in your hands right now.

Thank you for the unwavering support, countless laughs, late-night submissions, valuable lessons learned, collaborative meetings, and unforgettable memories. The Folio will always hold the most special place in my heart.

Molly Fox ‘26 – Managerial Editor

I have been a part of the Folio since I was a wee freshman. Looking back on these four years, it was probably one of the best decisions I could have made as a Bonnie. Anita Perez ‘24 – a member of my FA, previous Chief Editor, and a dear friend of mine - convinced me to join at my first club fair, and it has been a consistent part of my routine. 

I had always enjoyed writing, but the Folio gave me the opportunity to use my opinionated mind and transform my thoughts and experiences into a news article each month. When I became a Junior Editor my Sophomore year, I was ecstatic. I was able to apply my grammar skills while editing other writers’ articles and give back to an organization that I cared about.

By junior year, I was uploading articles to the website and making sure they were visually appealing to our readers. Anastasia Koutsivitis ‘25 taught me how to make our published articles look polished,  and later, I redesigned the appearance of the Folio to match each issue’s season. Eventually, I became the first Managerial Editor during my junior year – the first to be given the title. 

I have truly seen this newspaper from every angle – writer, editor, and manager – and I have loved (mostly) every minute of it. I have loved reading articles by every writer and seeing them grow throughout the years. I have loved editing the website each month to see just how festive I could make it. And most importantly, I have loved the community that developed because of the Folio and the legacy this wonderful team has built. 

I have been able of watching our future Chief and Managerial Editor step into the roles we, the current board, are leaving behind, and I cannot wait to see – or hear about from 900 miles away – how much they flourish. I think I speak for all of us, here at the Folio, that we have endless faith in their talent. 

I would also like to thank Mr. Somma for the creative freedom he entrusted me with, whether it was my writing, my grammar skills, experimenting with the website each month, or making sure editing was complete and uploaded for every issue. Additionally, I am thankful for the countless times he has reviewed my writing, because he would never turn away a student in need of clarification.

While I am saddened that this will be my last published piece as I leave the Folio, I know I am leaving it in good hands. I carry the skills I have learned and sharpened here as I continue to my next chapter at Belmont Vision. 

I am Molly Fox – your Folio Managerial Editor, Social Publicity Chairperson, Yearbook Vice President, Cross Country Co-Captain, and a proud member of FA 3 – I hope you have a Terrific Tuesday, and I am officially signing off. 

A BIG Thanks & What’s Next

Gabriella Apisa ‘27

There’s so much I could say about our Senior Editors, and I probably should cut to the chase and stop wasting space mentioning that, but, hey, that’s just the kind of writer I am. Seriously, though, Molly, Tessa, and Emma have made this year on The Folio one I’ll truly never forget. Their unique “triumvirate”—something that The Folio has, to my knowledge, never seen—has made my transition into the Junior Editor position as smooth as I could ever ask for. They have provided me, and the entire club community, with a support system. Always creating a space of trust and comfortability, their constant willingness to lend a helping hand, to brainstorm new story ideas for “lost” journalists, and to cover any unclaimed articles is admirable, to say the least. And, in doing all of this, they have kept a smile on their faces. So, it is with that same genuine love for the craft—and, of course, for the club community—that I hope to lead The Folio as Editor-in-Chief of the 2026-27 school year. 

These girls have surely created some big shoes for me to fill, but I couldn’t be more excited for what’s next! Next year, I hope to work with our Managerial Editor, Scarlett, and our two new Junior Editors, Gianna and Anaiah, to make The Folio better than ever. Get ready for some new Folio Games, more (hopefully) printed newspapers, and fun, festive enhancements to our website!

Scarlett Shin ‘27

I have been on Folio since my freshman year, but this year was by far the most memorable. Serving as Junior Editor alongside Gabby and working with our Senior Editors Emma, Molly, and Tessa has made this year truly meaningful. They helped guide me during my first year as Junior Editor with Gabby, and I think I can speak for both of us when I say I am so grateful for their guidance and support. Whenever Gabby and I needed guidance, they were there, and that same support extended to every member of Folio throughout the year. I admire their continued dedication to Folio, even through late nights and close deadlines. In appreciation of everything they have done, it is clear I have some pretty big shoes to fill next year — especially following Molly, who did an amazing job as Managerial Editor. I can't thank them enough for all the support they provided this year. Looking forward, I want to make this coming year just as special with my Editor in Chief Gabby and new Junior Editors Gianna and Anaiah. Let's make this next year one to remember! 

Looking Towards The Future

Gianna Franzese ‘28

The time has come to say goodbye to the Class of ‘26 as they graduate FHA so soon. Although they are leaving, I speak for all members of The Folio when I say that we have learned so much from them. I was honored to be recommended for Junior Editor next year, along with Anaiah Fowlkes, and I wouldn't have the confidence to take on this role without this year's seniors as my role models. They have inspired me, along with all other members of the club, to work hard and not be afraid to cover difficult stories. 

As our seniors leave The Folio, I am inspired to work with the rest of the board to expand and develop the club. The seniors have left an incredible mark on The Folio, and these years articles have been some of the best yet. I personally know how much work and effort they put into editing the articles, formatting it, writing their own pieces, and so much more. As members of The Folio, we are forever grateful and fortunate to have had such amazing leaders this year. Filling these shoes will be scary next year, but because of my fellow members, the seniors, and the rest of the board, I am excited to take on this new role!

Anaiah Fowkles ‘28

As we unfortunately say goodbye to the Class of 2026, I can’t help but reflect on the extremely important role our Folio Seniors played. Every issue, they showed up, dedicating their time and effort and gave every article all they had. They were kind and understanding, consistently helping us when it mattered most: supporting us as we signed up for and wrote articles, giving us ideas on what to write, and always bringing the best energy to each meeting. No matter what, they always made an effort to put their best foot forward, helping us find our voices and refine our skills as journalists. I hope they know how much not only I, but the entire club appreciates them and all the hard work they’ve put in over the years.

Next year, I am honored to become a Junior Editor alongside Gianna. After learning from and working alongside the incredible seniors we had this year, I can confidently say we have big shoes to fill. Many changes are sure to come; however, I believe that with the help of Mr. Somma, our board members, and my fellow writers, we can rise to the challenge and make next year one of the best years The Folio has had yet. 

To the Class of 2026, from me and The Folio: thank you. Thank you for dealing with last-minute article switches, last-minute submissions, late nights, and foreboding deadlines. This year was some of the best articles we’ve seen, and your dedication has not gone unnoticed. We wish you the best of luck in college, and hope you never forget the home you have not only at Fontbonne, but within The Folio as well.

What being a Bonnie means to Me

Adrianna McKinney ‘26

Being a Bonnie means showing dedication, responsibility, and a willingness to help others succeed. A Bonnie works hard, stays focused on learning, completes assignments on time, and always looks for ways to improve their knowledge and skills. At the same time, Bonnies are good leaders that set positive examples, listen to others, communicate respectfully, and encourage teamwork with those around them. Together, these qualities show someone who is not only committed to their own success, but also cares about supporting and inspiring their fellow Bonnies to reach their goals. Being a Bonnie also means becoming like our mascot, an elephant, in staying calm, resilient, and determined even during difficult situations. Just as elephants are known for their strength, intelligence, and steady nature, Bonnies face challenges with confidence and do not give up easily. Being a Bonnie comes with a sisterhood who helps others, learns from hardships together, and continues to move forward with courage and wisdom. This strong sisterhood among us Bonnies creates an environment where everyone feels supported and reassured to be their best selves. Being a Bonnie means making meaningful connections that inspire compassion and a sense of belonging within our Fontbonne community. Through these bonds, students can learn the importance of respect, unity, and lifting each other up, creating friendships and memories that last a lifetime.

Final Bows from the Class of 2026

Chase Chiong ‘26

These past few months, Fontbonne’s Drama Club members have spent countless hours and sleepless nights rehearsing and preparing for their spring musical, Frozen. And after all of the slapping, melting, and being struck in the head, we finally had a show. At least, that’s what our director told us a, and I chose to believe her because Susan is the director, and the director is always right. 

Our opening show ended up having the biggest turnout that the Drama Club has gotten since my freshman year, and I couldn’t be more grateful for everybody who showed up. The rest of the performances went by in a blink of an eye, and just like that, the gates were closed for the very last time. 

This year, there are 6 six seniors are leavingthat are going to be leaving  the Drama Club and are beginning their climb up the treacherous mountain known as college. As much as we all joke about how glad we are to finally be done with high school and how excited we are to leave for good, I know that all of us are going to miss the Drama Club dearly. 

I know that I have joked a lot about how lucky all of the underclassmen are to have such amazing seniors there to guide everyone through the storm, but the truth is that we are the lucky ones. So, thank you to all of my baby underclassmen in the Drama Club. When each of you walked into your very first rehearsal, all of us were so excited to see such a large group of people who loved theater just as much as we do. The Drama Club reallytruly could not have been more lucky luckier to have all of you, so if you are in the Drama Club right now please do not quit next year or I will personally come and bother you.

 Every single person in this club has so much talent and creativity when bringing their characters to life, and I just love how much effort is put into every single line and acting choice. I am so excited to come back and watch next year's show, because I know that all of you are going to be incredible. 

So, as our president and vice president–Daisy Fasone and Makayla Joseph–abandon the Fontbonne stage, they are passing their crowns down to two very deserving underclassmen. A big congratulations to our favorite junior, Maggie Wynne, and our star sophomore, Gabriella Morrone on becoming the Drama Club’s new president and vice president! I trust that the both of you will do amazing things for the club, and I really hope that one of you is able to get rid of the formidable obstacle that conquers the stage. Also, please do not let Susan pick out the show next year without informing you.

Bye. I mean, good night! Love you. Thank you.

Thank You for the Music: A Tribute to the Seniors in Chamber Choir

Gabriella Morrone ‘28

The Class of 2026’s seniors have made such a huge impact on Chamber Choir, and it’s honestly so hard to imagine having choir without them. Each one of our seniors brought so much talent, dedication, and personality to choir, in both our classes & performances. When they sang together it sounded so effortless and connected, and I think that’s something very special. They helped create the sound and environment that made Chamber Choir feel like more than just a class. 

As a sophomore, I looked up to them a lot. They set such a high standard, not only musically but also in the way that they all supported one another. I’m going to miss the positive and fun energy all of the seniors have. Whether it was while singing some of our favorite songs, or laughing about something Mr. Micelli said in class, their energy was contagious and added a little bit of fun to our day. 

I’m really going to miss singing with them and seeing them in choir every day. It truly won’t be the same without them. I’m so grateful for the chance to sing with them this year, and I know they’re going to do such amazing things in the future. 

Thank you seniors for everything you brought to choir, not only this year, but in all of your 4 years here. I feel really lucky to have been able to sing alongside all of you this year. All of us in choir will miss you so so so much, and we can't wait to see what's next for all of you!

Where’d All the Time Go?

Isabella Belfiore ‘26

As senior year begins to come to a close, I have been taking the time to reflect on this extraordinary journey. At the start of freshman year, we were all scared to see what these next four years would have in store for us. We weren’t very sure of ourselves or the people we would want to surround ourselves with. We questioned every aspect of our lives and often wondered if we were doing anything right. As seniors, we walk around with our heads held a little higher, and might have found the people that teach us more about ourselves daily.

Nevertheless, we will never know if we are taking the wrong path or making the right choice. But what I am able to realize four years later is that the uncertainty that we feel is normal and maybe that's what growing up really is about. 

High school did not reveal all the answers we might have hoped it would, but it taught us to embrace the uncertainty. Through the late nights, early mornings, long practices, and countless exams, we learned how to trust ourselves a little more. 

Entering freshman year, I thought success meant good grades and a perfect resume. While those things are still important, we learn in the moments that aren’t as exhilarating. Whether it's failing a test that you studied hours for or an argument with a close friend, the difficult moments often teach us new things about ourselves. How we handle ourselves in these situations makes us who we are and fosters the growth we have longed for. 

Leaving behind high school feels like the end of something great, but it is truly just the start of something greater. This is a terrifying concept, but also an exciting one. In this moment, we are finally all able to see that no one has things figured out, despite how things may appear. 

As we look to the future and start paving our paths in different directions, we will take the lessons we learned at Fontbonne with us, which go far beyond academics. We will accept our mistakes with grace as we know growth will always be the result. And even though we might be overwhelmed with the uncertainty of the future, we can set forth onto our journey with the understanding that these four years have shown us that we are capable of more than we ever thought possible.