In 1980, the Stockhem Building was most notably the Tea House, that Wednesday tradition where we could indulge in such Mom-made treats as pizza, American sandwiches, and chocolate chip cookies. Down the hall lived the Swap Shop with its second-hand clothing. And, on the ground floor you could find the Infirmary headed by the school nurse, Doreen Signorelli.

I first got to know Doreen because I fancied her student worker, Lisa Hewett. I would hang around chatting with the two of them and I found myself spending as much time in the infirmary as possible. What I learned immediately was that Doreen was very cool. She was an adult that ‘got it’. (She also encouraged and supported Lisa’s and my budding relationship.) As I look back, I can say without question that Doreen became my first adult friend.

Doreen was as caring as anyone I have met. I remember her strength, humor, and empathy. We socialized outside of school and she was even responsible for finding me a host family to live with during my senior year. Doreen was a friend, guardian, and confidant all in one.

We fell in and out of touch over the years but reconnected in the mid-90’s. Unfortunately, she had been diagnosed with cancer and the prognosis was dismal. I remember our final phone conversation, she was as upbeat and positive as ever, curious about the life I had created. And, she bragged about her three children. (One named Lisa, after her student worker and my ISB girlfriend.) I miss Doreen and the conversations we never got to have but am forever grateful that we had the opportunity to become friends.

I’d love to hear any stories you have about Doreen.