On July 3, 1919, Joe and Mary Mondello welcomed into the world their first child, Corrine Mondello. Ms. Mondello would be the oldest of a family of seven children. Mrs. Corrine Mondello Dowden celebrated her 100th birthday July 3, 2019.
Ms. Mondello graduated from the Normal School in Natchitoches with a degree in education and spent the next 35 years teaching and educating children across Louisiana.
Coming to Kisatchie High School around 1944, Ms. Mondello would meet and marry S. G. Dowden. Together they raised three children and remained in Kisatchie. Farming, teaching, raising cattle and watermelons kept the Dowden family busy in this small rural community.
Mrs. Dowden’s influence in education is far reaching as students and colleagues took the lessons learned under her tutelage with them on the journey of their lives.
On July 6, 2019, a celebration was held to recognize her life long contributions to her family, friends, former students and colleagues. Surrounded by friends and family, she welcomed over 150 people to be part of that momentous event. The Kisatchie Baptist Church Fellowship hall was overflowing, with the crowd occupying every available space.
Mrs. Dowden was overjoyed to see so many friends and family present. Congratulations, Mrs. Dowden!
