Recently the Rosary community lost one of its most beloved members: Mrs. Mazzarella. Serving in many prominent roles, Mrs. Mazzarella was incredibly important to the development of Rosary and the strong young women that inhabit this campus.

As Royals, it is crucial for us to honor the legacy of the women who paved the way for us to learn and grow. By honoring women like Mrs. Mazzarella, we hope to become a little more like them. 

To honor her memory, we wanted to learn more about Mrs. Mazzarella from our very own Head of School Dr. Pautsch, who shared what a beautiful and influential person Mrs. Mazzarella was:

Why was she important to this school?

“Mrs. Mazzarella, who loved being called Mrs. Mazz, joined the Rosary High School community as a religion teacher and later served in the various leadership roles of academic counselor, assistant principal, and principal. She was the first president of Rosary. She served the community for over 30 years. Mrs. Mazz brought a energy to the campus that was contagious. She was warm, kind, and passionate about Rosary. She believed in and cared for each young woman that attended Rosary.”

Why is it important to honor her legacy?

“There are not many individuals that serve one institution for more than 30 years. She lived the charism and core values of Rosary. She was an example of echoing Mary’s yes. Mrs. Mazz was a role model. She raised five boys on her own as her husband passed away in 1975.”

What was her vision for Rosary?

“Mrs. Mazz wanted Rosary to be relevant for years to come. She built relationships with students, families, and staff that have defined generations. Mrs. Mazz would also remind us that as a school we must grow in every aspect of education and focus on the wants and needs of our students.”

Why did she believe in an all-girls education?

“Mrs. Mazzarella was the product of an all-female college education. She fiercely championed all-girls schools and her charisma touched the lives of thousands of young women during her tenure. She inspired thousands of young women by her leadership. Her passion and faith were gifts to Rosary.”

What was your relationship with her like, and are there any ways you personally try to honor her legacy?

“Trudy was a mentor and a friend to me. I spent many holidays with Mrs. Mazz and her family. When I first came to Rosary, I was hired as the first Activities Director and Mrs. Mazz was the assistant principal of student services. She taught me about the Rosary traditions. More importantly, she taught me to be a guide to the women we served. She built my confidence as a leader. I hope that I can be a role model to others as she was for me. Mrs. Mazz inspired thousands of young women by her faith and passion.”

Any quirky or fun facts about her?

“She once dressed up as the Wicked Witch of the West, complete in green makeup, to distract from a recent paint job on campus. One time, she danced at a faculty talent show. On another occasion, she sang a Blink-182 song while standing in a pool of noodles to help secure a win for a KROQ contest.”

What was her involvement in founding our current Trinitas Arts Program?

“She served as a patron, performer and member of its Executive Board, becoming instrumental in its growth and development.”

What advice would she have for current Rosary teachers?

“She would tell them to believe in the mission of the school and to stay faithful. She would remind them that God has His guiding hand over everything.”

Did she have a role in the Diocese?

“After leaving Rosary Mrs. Mazz served as the Coordinator of Dosence for the Diocese.”

What should Royals remember about her?

“No obstacle is too large to overcome. Faith must be at the center of all you do. Love unconditionally. Mrs. Mazz loved all those she met. I would do almost anything for one more Trudy hug!!”

Though losing someone as incredible as Mrs. Mazzarella is very difficult for our community, remembering the woman she was is important for not only those who knew her, but also those who are still touched by her influence through the brightness she brought to this school for decades. Mrs. Mazzarella’s lasting impact on Rosary should be forever memorialized through the celebration of her life and her amazing accomplishments.