For The Moreau Catholic High School Community
2014
Summer
5th Annual Funding Hopes and Dreams Luncheon raises funds for tuition assistance
James Mendoza ’12 Funding Hopes and Dreams Alumnus Speaker
Commencement a completion and— a beginning Brandon Tieu, Class of 2014
Volunteer Bernie Puccini with Kayla Wilder ’13 at the Moreau Golf Classic
Bernie Puccini officially retires after 46 years
Features
The Class of 2014 Graduates 4 Excellence in Academics, Service and Athletics 5th Annual Funding Hopes and Dreams Luncheon 10 2014 Keynote Speaker, Nike’s Sam McCracken Recognition Deserved 11 Thank You Fremont Bank Thank You Bernie Puccini for 46 Years Create a Lasting Impression 12 Personalize Your Engraved Stone Paver in the Capurro Family Plaza 2014 Moreau Golf Classic 14 32nd Fundraiser for Br. Gary Stone, CSC, Scholarship 2014 Raimondi Volunteer Award 15 Honors Kari Cardana and Vince Bevilacqua ’82 Don Feria ’95 16 Alumnus Freelance Photographer Shares His Thoughts in Q&A
Volume 30 No. 2— Summer 2014
President Mr. Terry Lee
Principal Ms. Lisa Tortorich
Design, Production, Photography Christine Kosmicki Communications Coordinator
Contributors Diana (Straggas) DeFrance ’76 Christine Kosmicki Don Feria ’95 Monica Lander Terry Lee Dani Lorta ’89
Board of Trustees
Updates: Chris Jackson, Samhita Nanduri and Ben Jackson 19 Moreau Class of 2012 Graduates Share Recent Accomplishments A Mariner Sails Up the Potomac: Year One at Georgetown 21 Scott Lowder Shares His Experience as a Freshman at Georgetown Les Mariner Miz 22 Arlene Hood’s Production With Eight Moreau Catholic Alumni Mariner Waves 23 Young Alumni Make Their Marks
In Memoriam
24
You’ll Always Be a Mariner
Mr. Dennis Mastrantonio ’71, Chair Mrs. Barbara Hemenez, Vice-Chair Mr. Eugene Ashley Sr. Ramona Bascom, OP Ms. Cynthia Bath Hon. Paul Delucchi ’87 Mrs. Maritza Ilario Mr. Rick L’ Heureux Mr. Terry Lee Ms. Marta Leon Sr. Christopher Miller, OP Fr. Paul Minnihan ’84 Br. William Nick, CSC Mrs. Charlene Raimondi Mr. Ed Raney Mr. Kevin Sweeney ’72 Ms. Lisa Tortorich
Published by: Moreau Catholic High School 27170 Mission Boulevard Hayward, CA 94544 Phone: 510.881.4300 www.moreaucatholic.org
Former Principal and President of Moreau Catholic, Joseph Connell, PhD, receiving the Cross and Anchors Award at the 2014 Graduation. With him are Board of Trustees member Eugene Ashley and President Terry Lee.
Dear Mariners, It is time again to honor and celebrate another graduating class in the summer issue of The Vector. The Class of 2014 is an amazing group of young women and men, fully prepared for college and for life by their wonderful parents and our dedicated and supportive faculty and staff. Join me in wishing them all the best as they begin the next journey in their young lives. We will always keep them in our prayers and look forward to seeing them again on campus as alumni. Graduation ceremonies at the Paramount Theatre also welcomed the return of Moreau Catholic High School’s 4th principal and first president, Joseph Connell, PhD. Dr. Connell was presented with the Cross and Anchors Award on behalf of the school’s board of trustees, faculty, staff, and students for his leadership, service, and dedication to the Holy Cross mission of Moreau Catholic High School. Dr. Connell shared some inspiring words with the graduates and guests—it was a special honor to have him grace the stage of the Paramount once again, as he did each year since 1979 when graduation ceremonies were moved from the football field to the Oakland theater. And in relation to the mention of football…our new Athletics and Student Activities Complex is nearing completion! The highest-grade AstroTurf is being laid out on the subsurface and secured into place. The Capurro Family Plaza, filled with engraved pavers and benches, will lead you through the Foxworthy Gate and into this vibrant new complex. The new 36-foot press box was hoisted high above the Fremont Bank Pavilion on Friday, July 11th, and the shiny new scoreboard announcing Al Vermeil Field is in position and ready for testing. It has been four months of transformation, excitement and pride for the entire Mariner community. I look forward to seeing you all at our Ribbon Cutting and Blessing Ceremony on Saturday, September 6, 2014. Finally, the Moreau Catholic community gathered to honor one of the most iconic and lovely people to ever be called a Mariner—Mrs. Bernie Puccini. In May, at the annual Faculty/Staff End of Year Luncheon, we honored Mrs. Puccini on the occasion of her retirement after 46 years of service to our school—40 as an employee and the first six as a volunteer. I believe that every Mariner knows and loves Mrs. Puccini, and how she has left her mark on Moreau in so many significant and simple ways. We all wish her the greatest retirement and the best of health; and we thank her wonderful husband of 61 years, Gil, and her Mariner children and grandchildren. Thank you and God bless you Bernie! Thank you all for your support of and dedication to Moreau Catholic High School! Blessings,
Terry Lee President
Summer ’14 | The Vector
3
Moreau Catholic is approaching a landmark in its educational mission as a Holy Cross School. In August, a series of events and festivities will mark its 50th anniversary. 4
The Vector | Summer ’14
John 15:5
ASB Executive Council Left to right: Jonathan Landavazo, Meagan del Rosario, Erin De Leon, Chris Castro, RJ Sundiang, Danielle Vargas, Jenna Gomez, Tiana “Sparkle” Gibson and Daniel Loza
Forty-nine classes and over 12,000 graduates have implemented the reasoning skills and ethical principals that they acquired at Moreau Catholic in their professional and personal lives. Each graduation celebrates the human potential that was developed as a result of a partnership with family and community. Every congratulatory handshake is delivered with the confidence that the young men and women leaving Moreau Catholic are fully prepared for future academic success and that they will go on to shape a better world.
The Class of 2014 fulfilled Blessed Basil Moreau’s dictum to strive toward becoming people of values as well as scholars. Graduates were accepted to 747 different universities and colleges across the country and garnered over $5.7 million in scholarships and grants. They were also exceptional leaders—innovative, passionate and charitable. Nine officers of the Associated Student Body (ASB) dedicated more than 1,500 hours of service to local non-profit agencies during their time at Moreau Catholic and also contributed their time and talents to nearly every facet of the Summer ’14 | The Vector
5
Aerial photo of Baccalaureate Mass procession taken by Mr. Jess Gomez
Moreau Catholic community. From Athletics, Honors Dance, Link Crew, choir, and theater, to the many clubs and teams, the members of ASB embraced the holistic education provided by Moreau Catholic and ushered in a number of new programs and events during their tenure. Vice Principal Katie Teekell, who served as the ASB moderator, says that this year’s ASB “has played an integral role in the growth of Moreau’s co-curricular programs, and it has been an honor and a privilege to serve with them. As individual leaders and collectively as a team, these students represent the very best of Moreau Catholic, and I am incredibly proud of all they have accomplished.”
Vice-Principal Mrs. Katie Teekell and Jonathan Landavazo ’14
Blessed Basil Moreau wisely said, “How we educate the mind will change with the times; how we cultivate the heart is and will remain timeless.” 6
The Vector | Summer ’14
The Class of 2014 benefited from Moreau Catholic’s outstanding course offerings in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM). When she arrives at Cornell University this fall, Khloe Heath will be academically prepared to further her dream of becoming a chemical engineer. As a nationally recognized scholar, Khloe’s awards included a National Merit Scholarship Program Letter of Commendation and a National Achievement Program Scholarship which honors outstanding Black American high school students. In addition to taking rigorous Advanced Placement classes, Khloe sang in the Honors Choir, played badminton, and participated in the Moreau Catholic chapter of Model UN. Khloe hopes to “make life better for the citizens of the world by producing products more cheaply and efficiently while reducing negative impacts on the environment.” Aspiring engineer Jack Alexander achieved 2340 out of a possible 2400 composite SAT score and ranked first in the Class of 2014. He received the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Award, the University of California Davis Regents Scholarship and University Merit Scholarship, University of California Irvine Regents Scholarship and the University of California Santa Barbara Regents Scholarship. Jack is inspired by entrepreneur Elon Musk, “ because of his choice to promote and lead three very different companies—Solar City, Tesla, and SpaceX—based primarily on improving the future of our world and the human race. His decisions are guided by an incredibly
long-term and humanitarian perspective that is, I believe, what engineering should be all about.” Jack will attend the University of California, Santa Barbara and pursue a double major in Computer Science and Engineering. Moreau Catholic athletes excelled on and off the field. Brandon Tieu (varsity football and track) had the second highest grade point average in the Class of 2014 and will attend the University of Southern California as a business major. Mariner Golfer Pranav Mohan graduated Magna Cum Laude and will attend Babson College on an athletic scholarship. He also received the Arizona State University Provost’s Award, Drexel University A.J. Drexel Scholarship, Purdue University Presidential Scholarship and Santa Clara University Incentive Award. Multi-sport powerhouse Laurén Brown will play volleyball for Notre Dame de Namur on scholarship and Chris Garcia (varsity football) graduated Magna Cum Laude and will attend Occidental College. These are but a few of the many examples of transformation and excellence that are hallmarks of a Moreau Catholic education. The Class of 2014 will join the ranks of successful Moreau Catholic alumni and, similar to the classes before them, remain life-long learners and contributors the to well-being of their communities and beyond. Moreau Catholic looks forward to the next fifty years and to acquiring the technology and to developing courses that will enable future Mariners to thrive academically and to adapt to an ever-changing economic and social landscape. As importantly, Moreau Catholic will continue to transform hearts. Blessed Basil Moreau wisely said, “How we educate the mind will change with the times; how we cultivate the heart is and will remain timeless.”
Left to right: Jack Alexander, Summa Cum Laude, will attend UC Santa Barbara; Valedictorian Akhila Nanduri, Summa Cum Laude, will attend UC Berkeley; Salutatorian Vishal Sunil Bhas, Summa Cum Laude, will attend the University of Arizona. Akhila’s sister, Samhita, was Valedictorian, Class of 2012. Read an update from Samhita on page 19.
“Whatever I do and wherever I go, I would like to maximize my contribution. An astronaut will receive training, glory, fame, but the engineers are the ones who put the astronaut into orbit.” —Jack Alexander ’14
Bill Katen, Moreau Catholic’s Accounting Supervisor and daughter Kimberly Nicole Katen. Ian Santillano, Summa Cum Laude, will attend Santa Clara University. Corinna dela Rosa Sanding, Summa Cum Laude, received the Moreau Catholic Theology Award and will attend Cal Poly San Luis Obispo.
Summer ’14 | The Vector
7
“As cliché as it sounds, I’ve always wanted to help people. My career path as of now, chemical engineering, will help me do so by making life better for both the citizens of the world and the world itself.” —Khloe Heath
Left to right: Tiana “Sparkle” Gibson will attend Spelman College, America’s oldest historically Black college for women. Nitin Bajaj, president of the Indian Club which was honored as Club of the Year at Moreau Catholic’s Academic Assembly, graduated summa Cum Laude and will attend UC Davis. Khloe Heath will pursue an engineering degree at Cornell University. A Summa Cum Laude graduate, Khloe received a number of honors including the National Merit Scholarship Program Letter of Commendation and the National Achievement Scholarship.
Mr. Kurt and Mrs. MaryJo Schaarschmidt (with Principal Lisa Tortorich and President Terry Lee at the Senior barbecue) have enthusiastically supported the award-winning Choir program at Moreau Catholic. Talented daughter Krista Schaarschmidt earned the prestigious American Choral Directors Association Coastal Region Honors Choir award and American Choral Directors Association Western Division Honors Choir award. A Summa Cum Laude graduate, Krista received the Jacobs School of Music Premier Young Artist Award and Jacobs Award and will attend the Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University in Bloomington. We are grateful to the countless parent volunteers who help make the co-curricular programs at Moreau Catholic a success. 8
The Vector | Summer ’14
Above: Garrett Miranda with parents Gary ’85 and Kathy. Left: Hélène Altez Malonzo, Magna Cum Laude, with parents Elsa and Daryl. Hélène graced the Teves Theatre stage as a member of Honors Choir and memorably starred as Dorothy in The Wiz. She will attend Loyola Marymount University in the fall. Below: Alexandra Rae Ignacio Rebosura, Summa Cum Laude, with parents H. Cesar and Leonor, and sister Lourdes ’11. Alexandra was a member of Honors Dance. She will attend Fordham University in the fall.
Summer ’14 | The Vector
9
Thank You For Supporting the 5th Annual Funding Hopes and Dreams Luncheon! The annual Funding Hopes and Dreams Luncheon has established the tradition of illustrating the importance of tuition assistance in the most personal of ways. In years past, we have heard testimony from tuition assistance recipients United States Treasurer Rosie Rios ’83; actor and comedian Brian Copeland ’82; and other alumni who believe that the chance to attend Moreau Catholic has made all the difference in their lives and want that same opportunity extended to future students. On their part, the audience also understands the value of a great education and has responded accordingly with generous contributions knowing that the impact of their gifts can be felt life-long. This year’s keynote speaker was entrepreneur and former Moreau Catholic Basketball Coach Sam McCracken, who impressed the audience with his work with Nike on behalf of Native American students.
Sam McCracken Moreau Basketball Coach (1988-1991) General Manager of Nike’s Native American Business Current member of the Department of Education’s National Advisory Council on Indian Education
Corporate Sponsor Fremont Bank Patrons of Hope Dave Capurro ’77 Mr. and Mrs. Miguel Leon Gift in Kind AVT Productions Mariner parent Sylvia Chacon and alumnus James Mendoza ’12 generated especially powerful responses with their recollections of financial hardship and the gratitude they felt for the education that was made affordable through tuition assistance. As a wconsequence, James looks forward to starting his own construction company post-college and Sylvia is happy that her son Sergio ’11 and daughter Sofia ’16 can continue fulfilling their dreams. The 6th Annual Funding Hopes and Dreams Luncheon will be held on Thursday, November 20, 2014 at Moreau Catholic High School.
In the previous academic year, Moreau Catholic awarded more than $1,600,000 in need-based tuition assistance to 30% of our families. 10
The Vector | Summer ’14
Table Captains Ms. Cindy Bath and Mr. Iggy Martinez Ms. Caroline Breeding and Dr. Sheri Task Mr. Mike Carroll ’83 Br. William Nick, CSC, Congregation of Holy Cross, Moreau Province Mr. and Mrs. William Hemenez Ms. Norma Ibaceta Mr. Kevin Kelly, Emerald Packaging Mrs. Cynthia Lee Mrs. and Mr. William O’Connell Ms. Bridget Paquette Mrs. Char Raimondi Mr. Art Songey ’73 Mr. Bob Valladon ’73
Thank You Fremont Bank On May 15, Fremont Bank gave $550,000 worth of grants to 51 nonprofits, including Moreau Catholic High School. Director of Community Outreach, Marie-Pascale Peterson stated, ”The Fremont Bank Foundation invests in organizations that not only enrich our community with their services and programs but also show outstanding leadership in their operational management. Moreau Catholic High School is a leader of such organizations in Hayward, and was selected as a recipient of Fremont Bank Foundation’s 50th Anniversary Grants based on these criteria.” Thank you Fremont Bank for your support of Moreau Catholic High School and specifically, The Campaign for Champions, the Funding Hopes and Dreams Luncheon, and The Moreau Golf Classic.
Marie-Pascale Peterson, Director of Community Outreach, Fremont Bank
Thank You Bernie for 46 years! On May 21, 2014 over 160 members the Moreau Catholic community celebrated the annual Faculty/Staff End of Year Luncheon and honored Mrs. Bernie Puccini for her 46 years of service to the school, first as a volunteer and since 1974, as a staff member. The day started with a Hawaiian Luau while honoring Faculty and Staff for their years of service to Moreau Catholic followed by Bernie’s retirement celebration. Mrs. Puccini started volunteering in 1968 when her eldest son, Howard, entered Moreau as a freshman. In 1974 she joined the staff, and served for many years as the Principal’s secretary. All seven of her children graduated from Moreau—a fact she and her husband Gil are extremely proud of. “Bernie made my transition to Principal so much smoother and I am forever grateful for all she has done for me, for MCHS, and for the thousands of students who love her and remember her as the matriarch of the Mariner family,” stated President Terry Lee.
Bernie Puccini’s legion of friends and colleagues provided humorous anecdotes and testimonials during the luncheon. Don Morneau was among many who expressed their affection for Mama Puccini during the post luncheon picture session.
Bernie returned to Moreau Catholic as a volunteer at the Moreau Golf Classic and will help with the school’s 50th Anniversary events. You’ll also be able to say hello to her at the ticket booth at athletic events on the new Al Vermeil Field.
Summer ’14 | The Vector 11
the Capurro Family Plaza will welcome you home Create a Lasting Impression The walkway entrance to Moreau Catholic’s new Athletics and Student Activities Complex will feature engraved stone pavers. Personalize one with the names of your family, friends or loved ones.
Stone pavers are available in two sizes 12 x 12 inch Space for six lines 18 characters per line, $400
6 x 12 inch Space for three lines 18 characters per line, $225
Order your engraved stone paver today. It will be installed in the new Capurro Family Plaza—ready for you to admire at the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony, September 6, 2014.
Visit moreaucatholic.org/paver For more information, contact Diana (Straggas) DeFrance ’76 at 510.881.4330 or ddefrance@moreaucatholic.org.
12
The Vector | Summer ’14
By the Numbers — The Home field Advantage Two years of master site planning One year feasibility study Fifty hours of design meetings Four years of fundraising; over 450 donors Twelve Campaign for Champions events One awesome groundbreaking 88,400 square feet of turf 62,000 square feet of track surface 4,000 linear feet of storm drains 3,300 linear feet of lighting wire 2,700 tons of rock underlayment 550 cubic yards of rubber turf Infill = Home Field Advantage on the new Al Vermeil Field
There’s room for 1,500 spectators. We hope to see you soon! Summer ’14 | The Vector 13
A Great Cause—the Br. Gary Stone, CSC, Scholarship Fund
GOLF C LA SSIC Left to right: Alameda County Sheriff Ed Smith ’86, Art Songey ’73, Jim Songey ’79, Principal Lisa Tortorich, Matt Warren ’03, and Newark police officer Pat Smith ’87 played golf to honor fallen BART police officer Tommy Smith ’89.
Left to right: Principal Lisa Tortorich and the First Place Men’s Foursome, Mike Dorrance, Larry Whitcomb, Rusty Bailey and Jim Gogarty.
Left to right: Principal Lisa Tortorich with the First Place Mixed Foursome Bryan Bottero, Vickie (Bryan) Bottero ’75, Matt Bottero ’74, Keith Bryan ’74.
Second Place Men’s Summit Advisors’ Foursome: Steve Fineran, Don LeDoux, Aaron Peabody ’05 and Brian Schwarer
On Monday, June 23, 2014 Moreau Catholic High School held the 32nd Annual Moreau Golf Classic at Crow Canyon Country Club to benefit the Br. Gary Stone, CSC, Scholarship Fund.
Second Place Mixed Capurro Foursome: Dave Capurro ’77, James Capurro ’10, Kim Capurro and Vince Capurro ’77
14
The Vector | Summer ’14
This endowed scholarship funds up to eight students each year. Recognized for their high academic achievement, two students in each grade level receive an award of $2,000 toward Moreau tuition. All of the proceeds generated from the 32nd annual Moreau Golf Classic, and each of the tournaments before it, are dedicated to the continued growth of the Brother Gary Stone Scholarship Fund.
Kari Cardana and Vince Bevilacqua ‘82 honored 2014 Raimondi Volunteer Award and Alumni Volunteer Award Recipients On Sunday, May 4, Moreau Catholic High School hosted the Annual John A. Raimondi Volunteer Brunch honoring Kari Cardana and Vince Bevilacqua ’82. Kari Cardana was the recipient of the 2014 John A. Raimondi Award for her many years of service to the Moreau Catholic Booster Club. Under Kari’s leadership, the Booster Club has become more involved in the life of the school and has helped the annual Crab Feed raise over $300,000. Athletic Director Christine Krisman stated, “Kari cannot retire until I retire, we are a team. I cannot imagine how I could have accomplished all the important things
without the calm perseverance that Kari has brought to her volunteer position!” Vince Becilacqua ’82 was the recipient of the 2014 Alumni Volunteer Service Award. Since his graduation, Vince has been involved with the school’s Athletic Department. His volunteerism has included: coaching soccer and basketball and liaison between Catholic Youth Organization events and Moreau Catholic. Vince has spent years volunteering on weekends ensuring the school’s gyms and snack bar are well maintain for athletic events. —Diana (Straggas) DeFrance ’76 Assistant Director, Institutional Advancement
Events
Alumni Athletic Events Alumnae Volleyball Saturday, August 30, 2014 6:00 pm – check in/warm up 7:00 pm – game MCHS Main Gym Alumni Cross Country Run and BBQ Saturday, August 30, 2014 9:00 am – check in/warm up 10:00 am – run Garin Park Alumni Basketball Saturday, November 22, 2014 5:00 pm – check in/warm up 6:00 pm – game MCHS Main Gym Alumni & Alumnae Soccer Saturday, November 22, 2014 5:00 pm – check in/warm up 6:00 pm – game Al Vermeil Field Alumni Baseball Saturday, February 21, 2015 MCHS Baseball Field Alumnae Softball Saturday, February 28, 2015 9:00 am – check in/warm up 10:00 am – game Larry Standley Field
Above: Vince Bevilacqua ‘82 (holding a commemorative clock) was surrounded by his extended family, wife Patricia and children: son Dino ’18 and daughters Louisa ’15 and Devan ’13.
Alumni Volleyball Saturday, March 14, 2015 5:00 pm – check in/warm up 6:00 pm – game MCHS Main Gym Contact Dani Lorta ’89 at dlorta@moreaucatholic.org for more information.
Left: Principal Lisa Tortorich and President Terry Lee hosted the brunch and Mass that honors the legacy of John A. Raimondi, a Moreau parent who volunteered his time, talent and treasure from 1971 until his untimely death in 1986 at age 48. This year’s recipient of the Raimondi Volunteer Award, Kari Cardana, manages several hundred volunteers who assist during sporting events throughout the year.
Summer ’14 | The Vector
15
Don Fer i a ’95 “I’m a freelance editorial and commercial photographer based in the San Francisco Bay Area. My work has been commissioned for Nike, Forbes magazine, Fortune, Stanford University, University of Oregon, Arizona State University, Tesla, Apple, REI, the Discovery Channel, and Kaiser Permanente, to name a few.”
View Don’s photography at www.donferia.com
Q. What keeps you interested and passionate about your career? A. My career is sustained by the excitement and honor of being able to meet different people from all walks of life. I’ve been incredibly lucky to have crossed paths with so many different people—from professional athletes, world dignitaries, and holocaust survivors—to day laborers, and creatives. Being able to capture shared experiences through photography has been the driving force behind the images I make.
with an internet cable attached to a camera, which feeds images live directly to either an on-site or remotely located editor. Images hit the wire and are distributed to worldwide subscribers in a matter of seconds. From a creative basis, I’ve found that making at least one image a day feeds the creative process via a constant challenge of keeping ideas fresh and new. I’ve found that my favorite camera has been the one on my iPhone, from which I post a daily image on instagram@donferia.
Q. How do you stay current in your field? A. Staying current in this day and age of digital photography and social media is a constant flow of adaptation. Much of it comes from necessity of the speed and volume of image delivery, which, in a span of a short 30 years went from shooting, developing, and scanning film, to shooting an assignment
Q. What is the impact of technology on your profession? On your work? A. As a professional, digital technology has driven this industry in unforeseen directions. In addition to the aforementioned livetime image editing, photography has flourished under new avenues such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, as well as other social media outlets. Bringing the photographic process
16 The Vector | Summer ’14
to the masses has given the public a wider appreciation for the medium, but at the same time turned it into a commodity with little understanding of the value of the process of creating and delivering the final product. As a result, competition not only comes from other professionals, but the friend that has a “great camera,” or is accepting assignments for the promise of simply a credit line alongside the photo. Q. How has the school/faculty/student population changed since you graduated? A. The one major change in curriculum over the years I’ve observed, as an alumni and coach, was the change from offering more opportunities in the arts to STEM requirements. While I do advocate for knowledge and learning in STEM— especially being in the Silicon Valley—those offerings should be tempered with an equal amount of options in the arts, adhering to the mission statement of the mind not being cultivated at the expense of the heart. Q. Which faculty or staff member had the biggest influence on your personal development? A. If I was forced to choose only one, it would no doubt have to be none other than Phil Wilder. From the very first contact I had with him when I formally requested for acceptance in his AP US History class, to eventually 20 years of friendship from coaching on his cross country staff, Phil has been nothing less than a mentor, confidant, counselor, advocate, ally, teammate, and constant influence in all aspects of my personal and professional life and development. Photos Left: A Japanese tour guide seeks respite from the sun on Corregidor Island in Manila Bay, Philippines. Corregidor Island played a significant role in defending the mainland against invasion from Japanese forces in World War 2. Below: An Olympic skier competes in the Giant Men’s Slalom at Whistler Creekside Resort during the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
Above: Stanford Cardinal quarterback Andrew Luck celebrates with his teammates after a victory over Washington State University at Martin Stadium in Pullman, WA. Q. What aspects of your Moreau education have stood the test of time? A. Of the myriad lessons I was taught at Moreau Catholic, one of the greatest was the value of the relationships we make and maintain with others. It’s a lesson evident in each interaction that I have on assignment, from the person at the front desk who I meet when I arrive, to assistants that help with set building, to editors and art directors in New York whom I’ve only met through email. The notion of shared value and shared experience is something that has resonated with me since my days at Moreau, from running Cross Country to being in Wally Mikula’s class, “Opening the Inner Door.” Those experiences have taught me, and still remind me, that as human beings, at our core, we strive for the same basic goals; health and stability for ourselves and those around us, and our collective goal to help others rise and flourish. Q. Moreau Catholic welcomes the Class of 2018 in August, what is your advice for the incoming freshman class? A. As I try to remember my first days as a freshman in 1991, among all the new experiences, faces, and sights that MCHS will offer, as the journey continues, my challenge to the incoming class of 2018 is to find the good in people, and make them aware of it. As it’s been said before, four years will go by in an instant, and now is the time to build relationships that will no doubt last the rest of your life, ones that you can and will lean on in some capacity. When it’s all said and done, your legacy will be defined by how you treated your fellow human beings. Summer ’14 | The Vector
17
US Men’s National Soccer team member Alejandro Bedoya dribbles during practice in Limassol, Cyprus, in preparation for the World Cup in Brazil. Q. What is your advice to the graduates of the Class of 2014? A. The world is a difficult, harsh, challenging, unfair and unkind place. Through destruction and hardship comes learning, and in learning, growth. Your outlook on these challenges will unveil the beauty, compassion, and the power of the human spirit, and it is in this spirit that we find our common bonds with our neighbors, and the strength to rise together in our humanity. If you are lucky, life will allow you to meet people that do not look like you, like the same food, or share your beliefs. Those are your new teachers; the ones who push your strength of understanding; their stories are similar to yours, though written with a different pen. Finally, find your purpose, whatever it may be, and work so that said purpose is always dedicated in the service to others.
Q. What do you love about your life? A. As odd as it may sound, I enjoy the instability of being a freelance photographer. It is a constant reminder to push the bounds of my creativity, and always test the limits of my effort. Yes, it is quite frightening at times, especially when the words “remit payment by” stare you in the face in what seems like a constant river of bills and expenses. What I love about this life is the trade-offs with that peril; I have had the honor to witness events and moments very, very few others have seen—some are only recorded in my memory. I have the honor of recording history for future generations to see and experience and for them to find something significant in what may seem to be the most insignificant of circumstances.
Of the myriad lessons I was taught at Moreau Catholic, one of the greatest was the value of the relationships we make and maintain with others. 18 The Vector | Summer ’14
Updates: Chris Jackson ’12, Samhita Nanduri ’12 and Ben Jackson ’12 —By Monica Lander
A
s members of the Moreau Catholic family, graduates return from time to time to help celebrate special occasions at their alma mater, visit their former teachers and catch up with fellow classmates. Once again, graduation brought together several alumni who took some time to share their college life experiences and accomplishments since their own graduation in 2012. True to his love of music that was nurtured during his four years at Moreau Catholic, Ben Jackson ’12 plays in the UC Berkeley Symphony Orchestra. A junior at Cal, Ben says he is busy pursing a double major in molecular and cell biology with an emphasis in immunology and English. He is minoring in music.
Lizst Academy Budapest, Hungary
This summer has been particularly exciting. It started with a 10-day Eastern European tour with the Orchestra. Visits to Prague, Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest were entwined with performing at several concerts. “Playing music in Europe and getting to experience the culture there was an unforgettable experience and one that I will always cherish,” he says. Back home for the remaining summer months, he is interning at the San Francisco based biotech company, Genentech.
cancer immunology research at one of UC Berkeley’s many laboratories. After graduation from Cal, Ben says he hopes to enter into an MD/PhD program. Chris Jackson ’12 carried his interests in cross country running, music and in the Holy Cross traditions from Moreau Catholic all the way to St. Edward’s University in Austin, Texas where he will begin his junior year this fall. A biochemistry major with a mathematics minor, Chris spent time doing research with the renowned Dr. Donald Wharry performing a forensic chemical analysis of hand lotions with applications in forensic sex crime cases. He presented his results at several undergraduate research conferences, most notably the 2014 Texas Academy of Sciences annual meeting where he was awarded third place overall for his oral presentation. This summer he was selected for the summer undergraduate laboratory internship funded through the Department of Energy at the Stanford Linear Accelerator Center National Laboratory. Chris gives credit to his MCHS Cross Country Coach Enrique Henriquez who continued to coach him during the months of training leading up to running his second Austin marathon where he finished 21st in a field of 5,000 runners and first in his age group (19 and under) with a time of 2:49:46. Proud of this achievement, Chris says he is already signed up for next year’s marathon with a goal of running in the Boston Marathon in the next few years. (cont’d page 20)
In addition to playing in the orchestra, Ben spends his nonstudy time at Cal helping manage an overnight host program for prospective Cal students and is currently participating in Summer ’14 | The Vector 19
Reunions 1969 45-Year Reunion Saturday, September 6, 2014 12:00 pm President’s Dining Room Moreau Catholic High School www.moreaucatholic.org/69reunion 1974 40-Year Reunion Saturday, September 20, 2014 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm Trader Vic’s of Emeryville www.moreaucatholic.org/74reunion 1979 35-Year Reunion Saturday, October 25, 2014 Trader Vic’s of Emeryville Contact Tim O’Bayley for more information at tim@obayley.net www.moreaucatholic.org/79reunion 1984 30-Year Reunion TBD For information email ddefrance@moreaucatholic.org 1989 25-Year Reunion Saturday, August 23, 2014 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm Handles Gastropub of Pleasanton www.moreaucatholic.org/89reunion 1994 20-Year Reunion Save the date: 10/11/14 Contact Kitty Aquino Esparrago for more information mattandkitty@gmail.com 1999 15-Year Reunion Saturday, September 13, 2014 7:00 pm to 12:00 am Crimson Lounge of San Francisco www.moreaucatholic.org/99reunion 2004 10-Year Reunion Save the date: 11/1/14 Contact Roze Alvidera for more information ralvidera@gmail.com 2009 5-Year Reunion Contact Alicia Martinez for more information Alicia2013@att.net Contact Dani Lorta ’89 at dlorta@moreaucatholic.org for more information.
Updates: Chris Jackson ’12, Samhita Nanduri ’12 and Ben Jackson ’12 cont’d
M
usic is still a big part of his college life in Austin. Chris says he plays his trumpet for a big band group called The STEADY Jazz Ensemble, a jazz improv group and at Sunday Mass.
do in my career.” She hopes to travel with Medlife on another brigade soon. At USC Samhita has been involved in its Troy Camp, an organization dedicated to working with local youth and fundraising
Through campus ministry, Chris says he joined other St. Edward’s students on a trip to Montreal, Canada where they volunteered to work in a L’Arche community and its residents with physical and intellectual disabilities. “True to our Holy Cross heritage,” Chris adds, “We also visited St. Joseph’s Oratory in Montreal, where St. Andre worked, during our day off.” A neuroscience, and health and humanity major at USC, Samhita Nanduri ’12 is busy working towards her goal of studying abroad in the UK and working in India and Africa. A junior this fall, she recently joined Medlife and traveled to Ecuador for a medical brigade. The group of volunteers and doctors set up mobile clinics and provided medical assistance to hundreds of patients from the rural villages in Esmeraldas. Says Samhita, “This was by far my favorite experience yet, because I was able to experience what I hope to
to send children to its weeklong summer camp. She worked primarily with third and fourth graders. She worked at a summer camp in New York City for underprivileged youth with and without special needs last summer. She is spending this summer taking summer courses and working in a research lab studying the effects of DNA manipulations via methylation on protein development and its long-term effects on craniofacial growth.
Moreau Champs Invited to Empire Worlds, NYC Coaches Wilder and Zegura will be taking our Alameda County Champions, the MCHS Mock Trial Team to New York City this October to participate in the prestigious, by invitation only, Empire World Championships. “Being a member of the Mock Trial Team was one of the most formative experiences I had at Moreau Catholic. I gained invaluable experience in public speaking, critical thinking, and careful analysis of writing that continues to serve me now as I attend Georgetown University. I would strongly encourage you to help support the MCHS Mock Trial team as they continue to grow and achieve new heights in competitions all across the country.” —Scott Lowder ’13 (featured at right) Please contact Phil Wilder at pwilder@moreaucatholic.org for more information on how you can help.
20 The Vector | Summer ’14
A Mariner Sails Up the Potomac: Year One at Georgetown
E
ven though I knew from the moment I visited Georgetown that it was the right school for me, my nerves were on fire. I was about to be on my own for the first time in a brand new city. I had no idea what my first year of college would bring me — and I was about to find out as I walked onto campus to begin my pre-orientation program.
Little did I know that I was about to start one of the greatest adventures of my life. Every class I stepped into offered incredible opportunities in its area of study that I knew were hard to find anywhere else. My International Relations professor from last semester pioneered his own theory and research on the causes of World War I that completely change its widely held status as an “accidental” war. Our newly elected student body president joined Vice President Biden in April on the release of the Obama Administration’s report concerning the epidemic of sexual assault at colleges. Everywhere I turned, Georgetown was filled with chances for me to make a real difference for my own school and the larger community. I became a Student Advocate and helped to represent students dealing with the complexities of a college disciplinary system. I enjoyed the preorientation program I did so much that I joined the organization behind it as a mentor for the next class of incoming freshman. But nothing quite compared with the roster of icons Georgetown consistently hosts to the continuous glee of its students. From legendary actors to former Presidents, the “Hilltop,” as Georgetown’s campus is colloquially known, was a constant supply of amazing speakers that offered incredible insights on the state of the world or even just a fun personal anecdote.
Justice Sonia Sotomayor, after discussing how her race and heritage impacted her as a judge, lit up as she raved on her love of science fiction. Kevin Spacey pondered on just how close House of Cards is to the real political world using a sharp wit and even more colorful language. President Bill Clinton even came to defend his record on economic inequality, a preemptive strike in anticipation of the next presidential election that I was lucky enough to personally witness. Even more exciting than being in packed halls for a lecture was the chance to speak directly to major political figures. I was able to personally thank Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) for being one of the first Republican Senators to come out in favor of marriage equality. I heard Sen. Heidi Heitkamp (D-ND) relish in how she shocked the political world with an unexpected victory on the strength of her record and character. I even got a wave back from former Secretary Hillary Clinton as she walked into our school’s legendary Gaston Hall and a selfie with former Speaker Newt Gingrich in the airport. From Smithsonian visits to cherry blossom festivals, my freshman year was an extraordinary journey. I’ve found a community of friends that made my transition as smooth as I could have possibly hoped for and classes from professors who are having a direct impact on the fields they teach in. I’m incredibly lucky to be attending such an exceptional school and I’m glad I had my Moreau Catholic education when I became a Georgetown Hoya! —Scott Lowder ’13
Scott Lowder ’13 ( a standout with his red hair) and Senator Barbara Boxer. Far left: Moreau alumna Daniela Leyva ’10 is the Staff Assistant at Senator Boxer’s Oakland office.
Summer ’14 | The Vector 21
Le Mariner Miz Jess Martinez ’76, Bonnie Gallogly, Janita Gee and Monica Sousa ’92
T
he Stage Manager calls “places,” the house lights dim, the orchestra begins, and the curtains rise. The audience is transported back to a prison in France in the year 1815. So begins another performance of Les Miserables, the Tony Award winning Broadway musical based on the classic Victor Hugo novel of the same name. Many experts have called this the “greatest musical ever”. It certainly is the most successful. Since 1987 it has been performed in over 42 countries and translated into 22 languages. On that night last fall, however, something was definitely different. That opening night of the Stage 1 (Newark) production was directed by long time Moreau Catholic High School Drama teacher Arlene Hood. Additionally, eight current and former Moreau students, ranging from the 1970s to now, gathered together on stage for this production.
There’s a certain bond to meeting fellow Mariners and this was no exception. To say that this production was a success is an understatement.
Over the past 25 years, Ms. Hood has directed over 60 shows for Moreau Catholic and many more around the Bay Area and beyond. When she took on the challenge of directing this monstrous show, she had little idea that she would be having a school reunion every night. In the huge world of local community theater, and with Moreau such a small school, you may occasionally run into a cast member who is a former student once in a blue moon. To have nine Mariners all in one show was extraordinary!
Mark Flolo ’91: “I was very thrilled at the opportunity to be directed once again by Arlene Hood, who directed me in the MHS production of Anything Goes. At Les Miz auditions, I ran into the amazing Monica Sousa, (my co-lead from way back in 1991) and she helped me survive. I was taught and encouraged by all the Moreau family how to be a theatrical performer once again and to be confident in doing so.”
Along with Ms. Hood, Angela Buscano ’15, Julia Chapman’ 15, Ronald R.J. Pajarillo ’14, Dani Issa ’12, Monica Sousa ’92, Mark Flolo ’91, Kelly Lotz ’91, and Jess Martinez ’76 played parts in the production. Some had met while in school, but many were meeting for the first time.
According to the Stage 1 Theatre box office manager, this show was their all-time biggest draw in their 25-year history, breaking most of their box-office records.
M
any shows had them adding seats due to high demand. For a few performances, large groups of Mariner family and friends were in attendance. Congratulations to Arlene Hood for putting together a smash show and the 8 other Mariners who helped make Les Miserables a resounding success.
Kelly Lotz ’91: “While attending Moreau, Arlene Hood helped me explore and express my love for theatre both on stage and behind the scenes. Thank you to Arlene Hood for allowing me to grow and continue to experience a love that will forever be a part of my life—live theatre.” Monica Sousa ’92: “Being in Les Miz was such a privilege, filled with multiple experiences that I will always treasure.” —Jess Martinez ’76
22 The Vector | Summer ’14
00s
Mariner Waves: Young Alumni Make Their Marks Melissa (Keough-Alcott) Brito ’03 graduated from San Diego State with a Master of Science in nursing, specializing as an adult nurse practitioner and clinical nurse specialist. She graduated at the top of her class with outstanding academic achievement.
James Capurro ’10 received his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with an emphasis on Marketing and a minor in Business Analytics from Villanova University. He is employed as an analyst at ZL Technologies in San Jose. Kyle Cardana ’10 graduated from the Oakland Police Academy and received a Certificate for Excellence in Academic Achievement. He was honored to have his badge pinned on him by his brother, Santa Barbara Police Officer Kody Cardana ’07.
Rondy Lazaro ’04 came back to visit Moreau in May and preview the Al Vermeil Field with his mentor and former coach, Phil Wilder. Rondy Michael Lazaro ’04 earned his M.D. from the University of Virginia School of Medicine in May 2014. While at UVA, he was a member of the Edward W. Hook Scholars Program in Humanities and Ethics. He also participated in the UVA University Singers, Chamber Singers, Baroque Orchestra, Charlottesville & University Symphony Orchestra, and Club Cross Country team. Rondy is doing his internship in Internal Medicine at Alameda Health System/Highland Hospital in Oakland. Afterward, he will pursue his residency in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Virginia Commonwealth University. Breanna Martinez ’09 graduated from San Jose State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications. Maria Eloisa Asilo ’10 attended the 2+2 Nursing Program of Holy Names University and Samuel Merritt University graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She was named to the Dean’s Honor Roll for both universities. After graduation, Maria plans to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) to become a licensed registered nurse and pursue work in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.
Kaitlyn Grace Renfro ’10 graduated from the 2+2 Nursing Program of Holy Names University and Samuel Merritt University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Kaitlyn received the Merritt Award which is given to a student entering Holy Names University as a student athlete (cross country). While attending Samuel Merritt University, a patient wrote to the Director of Nursing recognizing Kaitlyn as a definition of what nurses should aspire to become. Chloe Ann Segismundo ’10 received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from UC Irvine.
IN MEMORIAM Please pray for the souls of: Daniel Apodaca
Myrtle Mina Oberman
Gelsomino Joseph Antonini
Dennis Oliveira
Robert Baalman
Sue Mary Tropiano
Laura (Dougherty) Rae
Kenneth Schexnayder
Laura Looker
Setsuko Tsurumoto
Rolando L. Macasieb
Marie Teresa Valle
John “Joey” Joseph Miramontes ’81 Summer ’14 | The Vector
23
Alumni Parents of the Class of 2014 Donna (Anderson) Carpenter ’86 – Megan Carpenter ’14 Brent Goodale ’83 – Aaron Goodale ’14 Lisa (Ivaldi) Granzella ’85 – Dino Granzella ’14 Ted Krzywicki ’74 – Noah Krzywicki ’14 Rene (Quintana) Lorenzi ’75 – Tanner Lorenzi ’14 Patrick McGann ’81 – Sydnie McGann ’14 Rowena (Morales) Okialda ’92 – Jayson Okialda ’14 Oscar Peña ’84 – Robert Peña ’14 Monique (McMearn) Torres ’87 – Charles Torres ’14 Sharon Baldoza ’86 – Conan True Beverly (McCall) Witham ’74 – Chandler Witham Eugenio Zertuche ’83 and Frances (Erwin) Zertuche ’81 – Jacob Zertuche ’14