NDB students and staffulty share memories of Tauskey

Victoria Buick, Page Krensavage, and Lara Hollblad-Fadiman • May 19, 2026

Tauskey in 2010. (The Catalyst / Victoria Buick)

“Mrs. Tauskey is the warm embrace that every person who walks through the doors of 1540 Ralston Avenue needs, whether they realize it crossing our threshold or not. How does one personify a hug? I am not sure, but Mrs. Tauskey has it mastered.” – Meredith Essalat, Head of School

“My favorite thing is just the smile she can always bring to my face every time I walk in the door. She knows how to put anyone in a good mood and just automatically makes her day better.” – Kylie Fernandez, Class of 2026

“I just love how positive she is. She is such a wonderful person and always willing to brighten somebody’s day. We start each morning with a hug, we started that a few years ago … [Mrs. Tauskey] is always so encouraging, especially in my forensics class … She’s always willing to participate and help out wherever she can. We will all miss her so much …” – Isabelle Haithcox, Science Teacher

“Sitting in [Mrs. Tauskey’s] room during lunch and chatting with her was probably one of the best

Tauskey in 2026. (The Catalyst / PHOTO COURTESY OF NDB MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS)

highlights of my time at NDB. Every time I was sad about something or tired or just wanted company, she would always offer exactly what I needed … a piece of candy, or some lotion, or Advil or even advice … NDB won’t be the same without her.” – Claire Odderstedt, Class of 2025

“… You can’t find a replacement for someone like Mrs. Tauskey because no one will be able to hold such a special place in the community and be such a nice person to everybody. She will forever be part of the Notre Dame community, and … she can never be replaced in it.” – Kaya Gersick, Class of 2030

“I absolutely adore Mrs. Tauskey because she is always there for me, whether it’s that I need something from the office or just someone to talk to. She is always so sweet and so kind and just an absolute joy to see every day … I’m really excited for her to enjoy this next chapter, but also sad that she won’t be here for my last year.” – Samantha Kirkpatrick, Class of 2027

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About the Contributors

Victoria Buick, Managing Editor, The Catalyst (Print)

Victoria Buick is a senior at NDB and serves as the Managing Editor (Print) of the Catalyst. She enjoys shaping print issues through editorial planning, layout design, and collaboration with staff writers. At school, Victoria enjoys math and English courses, playing tennis, and working with the Hallmarks in Action Board. Outside of NDB, she values spending time with friends and family.

Page Krensavage, Editor in Chief

Page Krensavage is a Senior at NDB. She has been in the Catalyst club since her freshman year and has a passion for writing. She was a Co-News Editor her Junior Year. Some of her hobbies include playing tennis, baking with her sister, and volunteering.

Lara Hollblad-Fadiman, Arts & Life Editor

Lara Hollblad-Fadiman is a Senior at NDB, a Journalism II student, and the Arts & Life Editor. She is passionate about writing and English, and her favorite school activity is broadcasting for Tiger TV. Outside of school, she enjoys spending time with friends and going to the beach.