We were excited to learn that two Nazareth Academy alumnae, sisters Laura DiVito Quinn ’06 and Amy DiVito ’08, were lucky enough to attend the Olympic Games this summer in Paris, France. They told us about their experiences and how they have carried Nazareth Academy with them in their lives.
Can you briefly describe your Olympic experience?
Amy DiVito: We entered the lottery for tickets back in December 2022, and then we got a time slot in March 2023 and that was it, we were off to the Olympics! We saw indoor volleyball, beach volleyball, swimming, tennis (Laura and I were both Naz tennis players!) and three soccer games!
Laura DiVito Quinn: Experiencing the excitement and support of the world’s top athletes was incredible! The fan base had a mature energy that picked up each of us and carried us along. Watching flags waving, surrounded by a sea of country colors, and hearing encouragement in every language – it is electric and energizing in the coolest way. My favorite Olympic ticket was tennis, hosted at Roland Garros which is the home of the French Open. As a Nazareth tennis player, this was such a magical place to visit that I never dreamed I’d see in real life. Once we were inside the gates, we stayed for six hours and soaked up everything, bouncing into all of the outside courts (early round-robin games and lesser-ranked athletes), walking through the gardens and enjoying a full match in the ticketed stadium with a ranked superstar. The crowd was unforgettable and the match was so much fun to experience live.
Was there anything that surprised you or a moment you will never forget?
AD: The organization of the games and the global camaraderie – everyone was cheering for the players regardless of country, one second you’re celebrating a great play by France and the next you’re clapping for Japan. It’s just a really fun and inclusive energy.
LQ: I was very impressed with the huge sustainability effort across the Olympic venues and all of France. The train system was superior and the day-passes were super easy and budget-friendly, allowing access to all trains, trams and buses. We never once received plastic utensils, anything made from styrofoam or lids/straws. I loved the use of heavy-duty compostable cardboards, bamboo and wood and paper bags instead of plastic everywhere we went. Paris optimized digital capabilities, so we never printed any tickets (Olympic, transportation, tourist attractions) and never needed local currency.
How do you carry your Nazareth education with you as an adult?
AD: I definitely carry the Pillar of Service with me. From joining a service fraternity in college to supporting and working with local charitable organizations in my current city, I always value service to the community and try to stay engaged and active in improving my own.
LQ: Nazareth’s hospitality and embodiment of Unity and Spirit have been ingrained in our everyday lives. Today, I look for these qualities in my friendships, work places. and community. I tell my children that the energy we put into our experiences will drive the energy that we attract. At Naz I was a tennis player, a newspaper editor, an NHS board member, a band member and a theater crew member. All of that energy led to great relationships, personal exposure and learning opportunities. In my family and professional life, I strive to be actively present with Unity and Spirit, never forgetting where it all came together as a teenager at Naz.
What is your best wish for Nazareth Academy on the occasion of our 125th Anniversary?
AD: That the students who spend just a short four years at Naz continue to receive the education, values and experiences that will make them successful in all their future endeavors.
LQ: Agree with Amy 100%!