Merion Mercy Latin Leadership Recognized Across Institutions

Merion Mercy’s leadership in classical studies is gaining recognition beyond its own campus.

Latin teacher Mrs. Suzanne Walker ’99, P’28 recently participated in an internal audit of the Classics Department at The Hill School in Pottstown, PA — an opportunity that underscores both her professional expertise and the strength of Merion Mercy’s Latin program.

Under Mrs. Walker’s leadership, Latin at Merion Mercy is far more than the study of an ancient language. Students sharpen analytical thinking, deepen their understanding of language structure, and build meaningful connections across history, theology, literature, and modern languages. By drawing comparisons among civilizations and cultures, Latin students strengthen their skills across disciplines — becoming more precise writers, more confident thinkers, and more curious scholars.

That impact extends well beyond graduation.

The Classics Department at The Hill School is chaired by Dr. Melissa Brown Toomey ’08 — a Merion Mercy alumna and former student of Mrs. Walker. Joining the audit were Dr. Scott Mullen, Chair of the Classics Department at St. Joseph’s Preparatory School; Prep graduates Mr. Stephen Ciraolo and Mr. Edward Turner, who now teach in Hill’s Classics Department; and Jennie Luongo, president of the American Classical League and a teacher at St. Andrew’s Episcopal School in Austin, TX.

“It is a major point of pride that two Merion Mercy alumnae are Latin teachers,” said Mrs. Walker. “It reflects the strength of the program that led them to these careers.”

Her invitation to serve on this review panel reflects the academic rigor, collaboration, and reputation of Merion Mercy’s Latin program — and the lasting influence it continues to have across institutions.

To learn more about the study of Latin at Merion Mercy Academy, read Mrs. Walker’s 2023 blog post.