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Voices of DSHA

DSHA's Committment to One Body Made Me Whole

Toni Harrison Freeman, DSHA '74
Last month, Toni Harrison Freeman, DSHA '74, was named 2024 Jubilarian of the Year. Upon receiving this honor, she addressed DSHA faculty, staff, and supporters.
I want to acknowledge the profound impact of two remarkable women who, although not present today, profoundly influenced my life at DSHA: Sister Edith Feltner, my algebra teacher, and Sister Carol Thresher, [SDS, DS ’59,] my social studies teacher. Their mentorship was not only influential but genuinely transformative for me. After taking algebra with Sister Edith during my freshman year, she invited me to participate in a pilot program that enrolled sophomores in an advanced algebra class. This opportunity set the stage for her guidance throughout high school, culminating in her encouragement to take an honors calculus class my senior year.
 
Understanding the full significance of her influence and mentorship requires context. Students with jobs could leave during their senior year at lunchtime, a privilege that almost all my classmates enjoyed. I had planned to take the calculus class until I discovered it was only offered during the last period of the day. Back then, we had the same class Monday through Friday, so I would have to stay on campus through the last period, sacrificing the privilege of leaving early. Considering I had already surpassed college math entrance requirements, I decided I could live without calculus!
 
However, Sister Edith insisted I meet with her, and by the end of our meeting, I was enrolled in the calculus class held from September to June. But the story doesn't end there! Before graduation, I participated in a math competition and won a scholarship to college. It was 1974, and we didn't have aids like calculators; we just used pen, paper, and what our teachers taught us. But I entered that competition with the confidence that Sister Edith instilled in me, year after year. Her mentorship paved the way for me to attend college, and after four years, I only needed a $2,500 loan to graduate.
 
I have utilized my analytical skills working for public, private, and nonprofit organizations throughout my professional career. But upon reflection, as I prepared tonight's comments, I realized that my faith formation and service to others started early. At 14, I began teaching 3rd grade Sunday School at my church, initially as a substitute, but leading the class throughout high school. I was the only non-adult to serve in this capacity for all four years.
 
While most of my comments tonight are about Sister Edith, I would be remiss not to mention how Sister Carol Thresher, my freshman homeroom and social studies teacher, also greatly influenced my life. For example, she taught my first African American studies class in 1972. Later, she nominated me for a unique program at the end of my junior year. Terry and I represented DSHA as part of 100 rising seniors from the Milwaukee area selected to travel to seven cities across the US to learn about urban and community development. In 1973, through this experience, I learned about global warming and its effect on homes sliding off cliffs in California and the new concept of cable TV. We had the privilege of meeting with Gene Roddenberry, who used his creation of Star Trek to courageously tackle a wide range of critical issues, including war and peace, personal loyalty, economics, racism, religion, human rights, sexism, feminism, and the role of technology. This was my first introduction to philanthropy, which was not faith-based, and I regret that I did not formally thank Senator Herb Kohl for this informative opportunity. 
 
Now, 50 years later, 54 since I crossed the threshold of this institution, I am glad that my mother made me attend DSHA. I am thankful that Sisters Edith and Carol helped build my confidence to take risks. I am grateful that attending Mass was a regular part of my life at DSHA. What a privilege to be in a place where I could freely discuss Christ and the power of faith. The emphasis on faith and education at DSHA makes this institution unique and valuable. It illuminates the deep connection and value that we all share.
 
I am inspired by the fact that today, DSHA serves almost 650 young women who can receive that same dedication. I understand the importance of educating young women about faith, heart, and intellect. I know that a supportive environment dedicated to how girls learn best can make all the difference.

I am a testament to DSHA's commitment to "one body," which helped make me whole.
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    • Toni Harrison Freeman, DSHA

      Toni Harrison Freeman, DSHA '24, was named 2024 Jubilarian of the Year.

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