From Passion to Purpose: Seniors Shine at 2026 Capstone Symposium

On April 30, 2026, Merion Mercy Academy welcomed families, faculty, and friends to its third annual Capstone Symposium—an inspiring evening that highlighted the work of 14 seniors in the Diploma with Distinction program. More than a showcase, the event reflected the depth of student inquiry, creativity, and purpose that define this signature academic experience.

Launched in fall 2023, the Diploma with Distinction offers juniors and seniors the opportunity to pursue personalized, interdisciplinary study in one of four concentration areas: Arts and Culture, Health Sciences, Law and Justice, and Leadership and Communication. Designed to extend learning beyond the classroom, the program challenges students to apply their academic knowledge to real-world questions and experiences. Participants complete rigorous benchmarks across academics, co-curriculars, and service, culminating in a capstone project, internship, or shadowing experience. Each student also curates a digital portfolio documenting her growth in Merion Mercy’s core values: compelled by mercy, educational courage, inspired by faith, principled leadership, and a voice for dignity and respect.

The evening opened with a prayer led by Meghan Kohler, followed by welcoming remarks from Addison Pollard. Attendees were then invited into the students’ work, beginning with Health Sciences presentations by Chiarra Mazza and Colette Remy. A lively poster session and reception encouraged conversation, as guests engaged presenters with thoughtful questions about their inspiration, discoveries, and the impact of their work.

The closing program featured an Arts and Culture presentation by Elisabeth Bailey, along with Law and Justice presentations by Emily Smith and Erin Rain Burrows. The evening concluded with a blessing and the presentation of pins by President Marianne Grace and Principal Philip Vinogradov, who spearheaded the program’s creation.
 

Featured Capstone Projects 

Arts and Culture

• Elisabeth Bailey - CreAItivity
• Stella Magee - What It’s Like

Health Sciences

• Audrey Casper - Small Steps, Big Change: Prevent Diabetes
• Naomi Goniche - Long-Term Neurological Effects of Sleep Deprivation and Insomnia in Adolescents and Young Adults
• Maya Hogan - “What If”
• Chiarra Mazza -  Power of Communication in Healthcare
• Gabrielle Pitucci - Mind Matters–Mental Health Awareness
• Addison Pollard - University of Pennsylvania Neuroscience Research Academy
• Colette Remy - The Intersection of Mercy in Healthcare

Law and Justice

• Andrea (Andi) Azuelo - Complexities of Legal Malpractice
• Erin Rain Burrows - Advocacy Through Art
• Emily Smith - Eyewitness Testimony and Its Reliability 
• Amira Wardlaw - Growing through Hardship, Exceeding with Circumstance 

Leadership and Communication

• Meghan Kohler - More Than a Pay Gap: Gender Disparities in the Workforce

Program Leadership

The success of the Diploma with Distinction is made possible by a committed team of faculty moderators who guide students through each stage of their journey:

• Ms. Arielle Chard – Health Sciences
• Mr. Paul Clementi – Law and Justice
• Ms. Caitlin Mattera – Leadership and Communication & Health Sciences
• Mrs. Patricia Reil - Arts and Culture & Health Sciences
• Mrs. Marianne Rule – Program Coordinator
   

The Diploma with Distinction continues to grow as a hallmark of a Merion Mercy education—one that invites students to explore their passions, think deeply, and lead with purpose. To learn more about it, visit our website.