Where Are They Now? Rose Ruffatto

  • Administration Office from 1994-2019 - Served as the Registrar
  • In 2014, also became the International Admission's Director 
Favorite Saint Viator/Sacred Heart memory:
One of my favorite memories was a Habitat for Humanity service trip to Tutwiler, Mississippi. Working along with our students to build a house for a less fortunate family was inspiring and rewarding. It was a great bonding experience with the students and chaperones. As usual, Betsy Fons was passionate about this project and made several trips with students over the years. Working at Saint Viator gave me the opportunity to serve others and create a lasting impact on me. What I loved the most was graduation. It clearly showed the success of every teacher and staff member involved in the student's life. It was both a sad and happy day for me. Sad to see them leave us but happy for what their future held.

Impact teaching at Saint Viator/Sacred Heart had on you:
I worked alongside Eileen Manno, who started the International Program. Together we grew the program to 85 students at the time I retired. I was able to work with students from countries such as China, South Korea, Italy, Brazil, Vietnam, and India. I was able to learn about their cultures and help them understand ours. One of the best experiences from this was being able to travel to China several times to recruit students and learn about their culture. Working at Saint Viator gave me this opportunity that I will always treasure. I will always be grateful to Eileen for her confidence in me.

What made Saint Viator unique: 
What made Saint Viator unique for me was seeing 3 of my children attend and grow into successful adults. Through their connections to Campus Ministry, sports, and an extremely caring faculty and staff, their futures were shaped. Seeing them walk across the stage to receive their diploma was one of my proudest moments.

Former colleagues you stay in touch with:
It has been difficult to see any former colleagues recently, but looking forward to seeing them soon! I truly appreciate the technology we have to stay in touch with.

Town you currently reside in:
Wheeling, IL

What you are doing now:
I am currently living in Wheeling, where I grew up, and hoping to resume traveling as soon as it is possible. Visiting my 11 grandchildren is my top priority. I look forward to some volunteer opportunities and the gardening season, one of my favorite hobbies.
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Located in Arlington Heights, IL, Saint Viator High School is a private, co-ed, Catholic school for grades 9-12. Students benefit from a challenging academic program, fine and performing arts, competitive athletics, and a wide selection of extracurricular activities.