Mary Gamberdella ’71 Named 2026 Mother Caroline Friess Alumna of the Year

Notre Dame Preparatory School is proud to announce that Mary Gamberdella, Class of 1971, has been named this year’s Mother Caroline Friess Alumna of the Year. A dedicated alumna, generous mentor, and steadfast supporter of the NDP community, Mary is being recognized for a lifetime of meaningful and far-reaching impact that beautifully exemplifies the school's enduring spirit.

 

“It is truly an honor to be named the Mother Caroline Friess Alumna of the Year,” said Mary. “My years at NDP have shaped me in ways I am still discovering, and it has been one of the most meaningful parts of my life. Even now, it seems strange to call myself an alumna, because leaving NDP never really felt like leaving. I have had the honor of dressing graduating classes in white gowns and mentoring students in my store for many years.”

 

Following her graduation from Loyola College in Maryland, Mary entered the business world with a vision of service and elegance. In 1978, she and her mother, Rita, co-founded their renowned bridal boutique, Gamberdella. From its inception, the boutique was built on a foundation of providing not just exquisite gowns, but a deeply personal, memorable experience for every bride. Nearly five decades later, that legacy of excellence and compassion continues under her dedicated leadership.

 

Her unwavering commitment to her clients has earned the boutique widespread industry acclaim, distinguishing Gamberdella as a multi-year recipient of prestigious honors including The Knot's Best of Weddings, WeddingWire's Couples’ Choice Awards, and Baltimore’s Best Bridal Shop.

 

Beyond her professional success, Mary’s profound generosity has quietly touched the lives of countless NDP families. For years, she has coordinated graduation dresses for the NDP community, taking special care to ensure that every young woman can celebrate this milestone, while assisting those who may not be able to fully afford the cost.

 

Her deep empathy was perhaps most powerfully demonstrated when she assisted an NDP student in selecting a gown for an expedited graduation ceremony. The early ceremony had been specially arranged so that the student’s terminally ill father could see his daughter graduate before his passing. It is through profound, quiet acts of kindness like these that Mary’s character truly shines.

 

Mary’s engagement with her alma mater spans decades and takes many forms. Recognizing the importance of early career opportunities, she has frequently employed and mentored numerous NDP students over the years, offering internships that have helped shape the professional paths of many young women.

 

She has also remained an active and loyal presence on campus and within NDP’s alumnae network. Mary has served as a reunion representative, participated in phonathons, sponsored the Blazer Dash, and volunteered her time at events such as Alumnae Bingo. She has even returned to campus regularly to share her professional insights as a Career Day speaker as early as 1995.

 

“NDP lives in my heart,” added Mary. “It’s in the friendships that have carried me through life, in the lessons that continue to guide me, and in the sense of belonging I have never outgrown. This community taught me not only who I am, but how to walk through the world with compassion, courage, and a commitment to lifting others up. NDP is a part of who I am, and it will always be my home.”

 

Through her quiet acts of kindness, dedicated professional mentorship, and loyal service, Mary Gamberdella continues to embody the highest values of Notre Dame Prep. The school is deeply honored to celebrate her generosity, leadership, and enduring commitment as the Mother Caroline Friess Alumna of the Year.