The Vector - Spring 2015

Page 1

The

VECTOR for the Moreau Catholic Community Spring 2015

MCTV delivers the news INSIDE: Mariner Hoops #1 in the MVAL Mock Trial Takes on the World Dancers Leap Before Looking Building Futures 6th Annual Funding Hopes and Dreams

Chrisly Macaraeg ’15, MCTV Photo: Evan Embrey ’16


…we are more

hungry

, we’re closer,

and we have a chip on our shoulder.” —Brandon Lawrence ’16

2

The Vector | Winter ’15


Mariner Hoops

#1 in the MVAL

V

arsity Boys Basketball secured its first outright league title in school history after completing an undefeated regular season in the Mission Valley Athletic League with a rousing 83-54 home victory over American. The squad enters the North Coast Section Division III playoffs as the Number 2 seed, having proven itself against local powerhouses and gaining a lot of attention from Bay Area media outlets in the process. But the defending NorCal Div. IV champions still have a lot to prove. “I think the difference this year for us is that we are more hungry, we’re closer, and we have a chip on our shoulder,” junior guard Brandon Lawrence says. “We had a great run last year, and we were so young, I think we didn’t realize what we were accomplishing.” The team isn’t sneaking up on anybody this year, certainly not long-time MVAL title-holder, Newark Memorial. The Mariners snapped the Cougars’ 56-game league win streak, proving, as Lawrence says, “We’re the new runners in the MVAL.” “It definitely represented a changing of the guard,” coach Frank Knight says. “Everyone’s looking at us now. But it’s just one game, one step closer to our ultimate goal.” That path included a tough preseason, with tournaments in Utah and Arizona that put some of the nation’s top teams on the same court night after night. “We learned a lot of lessons from last year about pacing our schedule and how we measure ourselves,” Knight says. Junior swingman Oscar Frayer leads the team, averaging over 17 points and 8 rebounds per game. “We’ve improved a lot with just staying disciplined, making sure we stay close as a family, and tuning everybody else out,” Frayer Photo courtesy of Doug Stringer www.hdsportsphotography.net Thank you for your generosity, Doug.

continued on page 6

Winter ’15 | The Vector

3


Letter from the President

The 6th Annual Funding Hopes and Dreams Luncheon Left to right: President Terry Lee, student Jasmyn Fletcher ’15, current Moreau Catholic teacher and coach Katie Hansen ’08, Brother Bill Nick, CSC, and Ted Griggs ’78, President of Comcast SportsNet Bay Area who spoke about the importance of Moreau Catholic’s Tuition Assistance Program.

Dear Mariners, Our 50th anniversary year is in full swing, and as you will read inside, we have many exciting events that we hope you will take part in throughout 2015. Our 50th is a time to celebrate the history, heritage and accomplishments of Moreau Catholic in the company of the Mariners and friends who made it all happen. It is a milestone and a bridge—to the next 50 years and the important mark we are making on the lives of our students, today and in the years to come. We are constantly moving forward, making progress on improving our campus and embracing innovation in our classrooms, labs and performance spaces. We continue to achieve success and reach new heights in our many cocurricular activities and athletic programs. Several of these achievements are highlighted in this issue of The Vector to connect you to all the wonderful things that are happening here at Moreau Catholic. Our Catholic identity and Holy Cross themes, along with the leadership and mentorship of our faculty, staff, and coaches, are the foundation upon which fomative learning experiences take place. To ensure our students are prepared for life in this fast-paced, tech-driven, digital world, our academic program is infused with student-centered instruction complemented by tech tools that help these young men and women create, communicate and discover. Ours is a vibrant culture—we find problems to solve and embrace introspection with the ultimate goal of transforming our students into active, engaged, and aware citizens. You can help us with this mission by engaging with us—reconnecting, advising, supporting, networking, mentoring, and helping to cultivate a more robust alumni community that continues the rich Mariner tradition of service, community and learning. Thank you for all you do for Moreau Catholic, and if you want to feel inspired, read on about how scholarships and tuition assistance help make dreams come true for our current students with the most need. My best wishes to you and your families, and I hope to see you soon on campus or at one of our 50th events! Warm regards,

Terry Lee President

4

The Vector | Winter ’15


Noctiluca Moving Pictures, Moreau Catholic's Winter Dance Program

President Mr. Terry Lee Principal Ms. Lisa Tortorich Director of Advancement Mr. Christopher Ruetz Editor-in-chief Mr. Dave Baptist ’85 Contributors Dave Baptist ’85 Adam Copeland ’07 Evan Embrey ’16, cover photo Diana (Straggas) DeFrance ’76 Christine Kosmicki Terry Lee Chrisly Macaraeg ’15 Design and Production Ms. Christine Kosmicki

Dancers: Alison Lander ’15 with members of Dance Ensemble II and Honors Dance. Wearable LED lights were created in the MCHS Maker Lab. 2

Mariner Hoops #1 in the MVAL

7

50th Anniversary Calendar of Events

8 Mock Trial Is Taking On The World 10 Dance Leap Before Looking 13 Close-Up An Inside Look at Democracy in Action 14

Board of Trustees 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 Ms. Lois Quilalang Mr. Ed Raney Mr. Kevin Sweeney ’72 Ms. Lisa Tortorich Mr. Quang Trinh ’88 ­­T he Vector is published three times a year by Moreau Catholic High School 27170 Mission Boulevard Hayward, CA 94544 Phone: 510.881.4300 www.moreaucatholic.org

Technology and Media Arts

18 Scholarships 20 Invest in Dreams 6th Annual Funding Hopes and Dreams Luncheon 22

46th Annual Crab Feed

24 Read-a-Thon Raises $4000 for St. Clement School 26

Mariners Make Waves

29

In Memoriam Winter ’15 | The Vector

5


Photo: Doug Stringer | www.hdsportsphotography.net `

Armond Simmons ’16, Mariners vs. Newark Memorial continued from page 3

says. “Most of us still work out twice a day, whether it’s putting up 200 shots or lifting weights before school. We know we’re putting ourselves in a position to win every time we step on the court.” All successful programs have talented players that are willing to play with a team first mentality. The boys’ unity and athleticism “are the keys to what we can do, especially on defense,” Knight says. “We work on it a lot in practice: how we trap, what our assignments are in certain situations. There’s that confidence that comes from each player knowing where his teammates are.” Their attention now shifts to the post-season where a deep run is on everyone’s mind. Lawrence recognizes how the team’s growth is key to fulfilling that expectation. “We’re smarter players than we were last year, so Coach Knight has been expanding our offense, giving us more complex plays and adding progressions to previous offensive schemes,” he says. “We do give up a lot of second chance points due to rebounding, but if we improve and clean that up, we will be very hard to beat.” 6

The Vector | Winter ’15

“We have talent. And we have family. Our success is attributable to both, none more so than the other.” — Coach Frank Knight III


Let’s Celebrate! May 2 The Mariner Gala

Presenting the John A. Raimondi Volunteer Service Award Moreau Catholic Alumni Achievement Award

29

june

Benefiting the Br. Gary Stone, CSC, Scholarship

Crow Canyon Country Club

33rd Annual Moreau Golf Classic

August 26 Opening of School Mass

Moreau Catholic High School, Main Gymnasium

October 10

2015 Hall of Fame

17

Fall Choral Concert VIP Reception and Performance

Moreau Catholic High School, Teves Theatre

24

7th Annual Funding Hopes and Dreams

November 6 Homecoming

Moreau Catholic High School, Al Vermeil Field

13

Fall Play VIP Reception and Performance

Moreau Catholic High School, Teves Theatre

For more information, contact: Diana (Straggas) DeFrance ’76 Associate Director for Advancement Alumni and Special Events ddefrance@moreaucatholic.org Winter ’15 | The Vector

7


One Mariner Team is

taking on the world

Megan Momand '15 was awarded Best Witness at the Empire Worlds in New York City

Desiree Santos '15

Aditi Kumar '15

The Case: Allen vs. Neptune Underwater, Inc. Lee and Andy Allen signed up with Neptune Underwater Expeditions to explore a shipwreck in the Atlantic Ocean. On July 7, 2011, Lee died during the dive. Andy, acting individually and on behalf of spouse Lee, sued Neptune for Lee’s wrongful death.

8

The Vector | Winter ’15

T

he Mock Trial team is preparing for Alameda County finals competition, fresh off an undefeated regular season and a year full of highlights, including its trip to New York for the Empire Mock Trial World Championships held last October. The team proved itself against international competition, missing out on a Top 10 finish by a single point and earning a tie ballot with eventual champion, Trinity Pacific of Thousand Oaks. “It wasn’t about the trophy or the awards,” senior Roshni Sopariwalla noted. “It was about the experiences, the newfound relationships, and the memories we made as a group.” One such memory was a special visit paid to the team by Moreau Catholic alumna and current Treasurer of the United States, Rosie Rios ’83. Outstanding recognition was ultimately given to senior Meghan Momand, awarded Best Witness at the Empire Worlds. Yet, as is characteristic of her team’s mindset, Momand emphasized the group’s chemistry over individual achievement. “Spending long hours working together on the weekdays and the weekends has drawn all of us closer,” she said. “These strong bonds we have established over the last few years have developed a sense of loyalty that drives us to be the best that we can be. Each of us is motivated by the desire to make our fellow teammates proud.”

The team has thrived under the five-year tenure of coaches Petar Zegura and Phil Wilder. Upon inheriting leadership of the Mock Trial “Club” from fellow teacher, Bob Parker, Zegura was immediately drawn to the atmosphere of competition and camaraderie: “Watching the team prepare for, and eventually present at, its first actual trial, we looked at each other and said, What did we get into? This isn’t a club. It’s a highly competitive environment, and as we’ve worked at trying to improve the skill level of the team, it’s been the kids, whose dedication and ability to remain self-motivated, that has made the difference.”


Their impressive performances are a result of meticulous preparation. “On the way down to our tournament in Carmel, they were in the van working on witness statements, and revising opening and closing statements,” Zegura said. “They see themselves as successful; they pride themselves on that.” The team’s development has also been fostered by alumni and other members of the Moreau community who have been generous with their time and expertise. Taylor Graham and Carolyn Abdenour ’03; James Smith ’97, Robert Burnside ’73, and the Honorable Paul Delucchi ’87 are among many that have shared a wealth of insight into both case law and courtroom dynamics. A faculty shout-out goes to English teacher, Anna Brown, who helped recruit her mother, Lorna, a former criminal defense attorney, to work with this year’s team. “It’s very difficult to stand up in front of an actual presiding judge and argue the merits of Constitutional applications of law using a variety of cases when the judge is firing questions at you and challenging your thought process,” Zegura said. “The performance of everyone, from attorneys to witnesses—where they have to adapt to new information and ideas—hinges on learning the rules of evidence so that a witness doesn’t phrase a response improperly which makes it objectionable or impeachable.” The hard work is obviously paying off outside the courtroom. Recent Mock Trial grads have moved on to prestigious universities like Northwestern, Tulane, Santa Barbara, Gonzaga, and University of British Columbia. Senior Haley Cantrell received early admission to both Penn State and Pace (NYC) Universities. “The kinds of experiences you have and the life skills you develop are just phenomenal,” coach Phil Wilder said.

January’s prelims included wins for all levels and valuable experience for our JV team which had seven freshmen participating. The team hopes to carry this momentum into a triumphant return to the State Competition in Riverside, March 22-24.

The journey has been exhilarating for many. “Every time I am called to the witness stand I feel empowered,” Momand said. She’s had to assume a variety of demanding roles: a principal involved in a high school drug case, an expert in scuba diving medicine and safety standards, and an expert in art authentication. “If I can remain neutral during a cross examination while simultaneously not conceding to opposing counsel’s arguments, I can accomplish anything I set my mind on.”

Padmini Dey '15

Angelica Cabral '15

Arjun Singh '15 Winter ’15 | The Vector

9


Leap Before Looking

T

hey’re playing to standing-room only houses and putting on productions worthy of The Great White Way. Their secret? They dance like there’s nobody watching. Literally.

They regularly arrive at school before 7 a.m.—long before most faculty and fellow students—and head up to the dance studio for rehearsal. While one ensemble works on a piece inside the studio, another set of dancers remains outside, on the third floor landing, refining individual movements that are part of a larger piece of work.

This level of commitment is the hallmark of a thriving department.

Mariella Sanding ’18

THE Dress—a performance from Moreau Catholic's winter dance program, Moving Pictures—a re-imagination of the score from the film Amelie. 10

The Vector | Winter ’15

In 2010, dance teacher Angela Demmel had 56 students in her entire program. Today, she has 132…plus another full-time teacher, alumna Elizabeth (Morales) Zepeda ‘03. “We’re going through a huge growth spurt, and along with it comes the inevitable growing pains,” Demmel says. “Six years ago, my primary goal was to just make sure our program survived.” Still operating out of the converted third-floor chapel, Demmel and Zepeda have shifted the focus of their programs to make dance both accessible and appropriately challenging to a broader range of students. Though some are getting their first exposure to the demands and rigor a dancer must


Competing with Atlas, winter dance program Dancers: Nathan Balingit ’16, Rahul Joshi ’17, Cameron Matabuena ’17, Joseph Magana ’17, Bobby Romero ’15, and Matthew Vicedo ’16

face, all students are being prepped for life outside the studio.

“In order to be creative, and to create dance,” Demmel notes, “our students have to take a scholarly approach.” Joining the Visual and Performing Arts Department last year, Zepeda has seen how the school’s “arts programs reflect the holistic learning you associate with Moreau—a complete education for the whole student.” Thus, introspection informs expression. “Dance isn’t a series of random movements,” senior Rachel Galligan says. “It’s story-telling, like writing, but in a different form.” Students are tasked to explore the depth of each piece and find an emotional truth within the choreography, a transformative aspect of dance that stretches the comfort zone of many students. “For this,” sophomore Katelyn Olsen says, “I am eternally grateful. I have learned to look at the small details of dance, and to focus on where movement originates and use this to make my movement larger.” Critical thinking skills, a Common Core staple in traditional content disciplines, are no less vital to the Visual and Performing Arts curriculum. “I want to produce thinking artists, thinking human beings,” Demmel says. “The kind of choreography Ms. Demmel creates is rarely ever taught in a regular dance studio,” sophomore Jessica Ruth says, noting the curriculum has forced her to reflect and write as much as any English class. “After only a year and a half of experience in

Being a part of dance helped me open up parts of myself I didn't think were there, or that I didn't really have the courage to explore previously. As a young man in dance, I hope that I can serve as an example to other guys my age who find something in life that they usually wouldn't see themselves doing, but try it anyway. You never know what you might end up loving." —Bobby Romero '15 Mariner Varsity Football Honors Dance

Nathan Balingit ’16 in All the Same, a piece focused on the lifelong battle for acceptance from those who have come out as LGBT. Choreographed by Elizabeth Vieyra for Leap Before Looking. Winter ’15 | The Vector

11


the program, I feel I can handle the challenges of majoring in dance when I get to college.”

Leap Before Looking, a showcase of student work which ran in the Teves Theater in January, put students in the role of choreographers and directors. “My group piece was about the seven deadly sins,” Galligan says. She drew inspiration for the work in “the emotion of desire and how it’s found in society.” In turn, Zepeda’s goal is to empower student-choreographers. “For them, it’s so much more personal. To take a piece of music that speaks to them, and tell a story based on their interpretation of a theme, this, alone, is a difficult task,” she says. The time and commitment needed to make a choreographer’s vision come alive test an individual’s perseverance. “I tend to work, and work, and work at it until I’m satisfied with something,” Galligan says. “And I want my dancers to go onstage and be comfortable with what they’re doing.” Thus, each dancer develops a higher, more genuine, level of confidence and poise, traits that transcend the studio. “In class, Ms. Demmel asks where we’re looking while we dance,” Olsen says. “Until she asked, I never realized how important gaze is. I discovered that I glaze over a lot, while I’m dancing, and even just walking down the hallway at school. I’m now learning how to observe the world around me and to look straight forward.”

12

The Vector | Winter ’15

Spring CALENDAR Mariner Honors Dancers perform at Vision Series Saturday, March 7, 6:00 p.m. Fort Mason, San Francisco Visit: www.dancerepertory.org

Teves Theatre Events Bon Voyage, Choir Concert Friday, March 13, 7:00 p.m. Pops Orchestra Concert Friday, March 20, 7:00 p.m. Building STEAM, Dance Concert Friday, May 1 and Saturday, May 2, 7:00 p.m. Musical, The Mystery of Edwin Drood April 17, 18, 24 and 25, 7:00 p.m. Sunday, April 19, 2:00 p.m. Art Show preceding The Mystery of Edwin Drood and during intermission Friday, April 17, 5:00 p.m. Ivaldi Student Center

Rachel Galligan 15’ (3rd from left) choreographed Sinister, an interpretation of the seven deadly sins.


CLOSEUP an inside look at democracy in action

S

even Mariner students visited Washington D.C. along with teachers Robert Parker and Amy Armstrong as part of the annual Close Up program January 11-16. A full calendar of events included a behindthe-scenes look at the seat of our federal government tours of monuments and memorials.

“We want students to see government in action,” said Parker, who’s led eight such trips. “They get to meet some of our elected officials and see that they’re really not that much different than us, which is really cool.” Our own representative from California’s 15th District, Eric Swalwell, took time to meet with our Mariners in his official office. The Capitol Hill visit allowed students to see which officials are meeting, debating, and working. Students were captivated by the inner-workings, perhaps a group of senators in a corner of the hall, conferencing, oblivious to a speaker on the floor. “It’s not just a sight-seeing tour, it’s very much a hands-on experience,” Parker said. “The students have to create legislation and try to pass a bill over the course of the week.” Junior Katherine Murdock was most taken by the solemn grandeur of Arlington National Cemetery. She took time to walk the grounds, listen to her music and reflect on the thousands of stories behind those laid to rest at the historic site:

“It’s hard to put in words how powerful of an experience it was.”

Mariners toured important monuments including the Martin Luther King Memorial.

Eric Swalwell, Representative from California’s 15th District, welcomed Mariner students and teachers Amy Armstrong and Bob Parker into his official office.

Winter ’15 | The Vector

13


MCTV is

vital

. It’s hands on and puts students in a real-world

environment. It’s project-based, deadline-driven learning. There’s no not doing a show which creates a healthy sense of urgency.”

—Paul McKenna '83 Technology and Media Arts Teacher

Photo: Evan Embrey ’16 14

The Vector | Winter ’15


Technology and Media Arts

T

he control room is not a democracy. When functioning at maximum efficiency, it’s a fairly ruthless autocracy. A director leads three techs; all sit at panels controlling camera feeds, lights, audio and video playback, and pretty much everything needed to put on a live broadcast. Moreau Catholic Television, MCTV, reaches about a thousand viewers with its “Gold Day” programming. The crew is ultimately aware that theirs is one of the few classes in which homework and classwork is subject to review by peers and teachers. A thousand pairs of eyes watch your work. And they see you in the halls every day. So, no pressure.

There are 30 students in the MCTV class taught by Paul McKenna, ’83. He has five other sections of Video Arts running throughout the school year.

All of his students learn the basics of videography, from storyboarding to shooting and editing. They find out quickly that there is no such thing as a “little video.” Tech and Media Arts (TAMA) classes present students with authentic challenges in an environment which promotes creativity and design, formation and transformation.

Today is the first show back from Christmas break. It’s a new semester with many new crew members. They’ve had a number of run-throughs, but they’re about to go live.

And it’s 147 seconds before airtime … Camera 1, more to the left, a little to the left, please, tighten up. Up a bit more … right there. Is that GoPro going to be distracting … in the background? How much time until we’re live? There’s supposed to be a PA announcement before we roll. Who’s on audio? Is that up now? We had a little tighter shot last week … Camera 2, Keanu, can you tighten up? Zoom in a little bit and to the left now, whoa … back a bit … right. Good. They just announced that MCTV is going now. Kill audio for a sec, keep the card up … Is everything rolling, Chrisly? Yes. The faculty advisor enters the control room. His FitBit activity

Ten years ago, McKenna inherited a program operating out of the third floor chapel: six students, six computers and one camera. They spent two years in a Garin Hall workspace prior to the 2007 completion of Moreau’s modern broadcast studio, a product of the Transforming Tomorrow campaign. The 18 work stations in the TAMA lab are equipped with a variety of top tier programs, including Final Cut and Premiere Pro used by our budding videographers. “I think the student body is impressed by our team’s ability to cover campus events and turn them around quickly. Bringing those stories everybody’s witnessed or participated in, people want to see that. Now!” McKenna said. “It’s up to us to rise to the challenge.”

Winter ’15 | The Vector

15


"MCTV teaches students to work together towards a finished product and keeping a level head when times get stressful. Going into the film industry is like throwing security to the wind, but I have been taught that you always have control over what you do, even when deadlines speed toward you." —Sarah Bridges '11 MCTV editor/producer

increases dramatically before, during, and directly after each telecast. The aerobics—of checking to see what’s working and what’s not, what videos are ready to roll and which ones will be rendered seconds before they roll live on the air—pales in comparison to the anxiety that comes from knowing every show is one technical glitch away from grinding to a halt.

All right … everybody, quiet please, we’re going now. They just told everybody to turn it on. Each voice exhibits a notable degree of poise. The first show back, there may be a few cobwebs, but it’s obvious they know how to get the job done. In the studio, a floor director, sound tech, and two camera operators keep an ear on the director’s mic and an eye on the floor. There’s cabling everywhere. And nobody wants to be the guy that takes a face-plant mid-show … Where’s Thomas? ... a beat ... Here comes Thomas. We’re live. Let me know when. Whenever you’re ready.

The advisor moves toward the soundproof door separating the control room from his classroom.

"I can't remember a video that I finished in advance. I always find myself editing until the very last minute. That comes from my inability to accept my work as ever being truly finished. I will always look for flaws and try to correct them." —Patrick Quibol '08 MCTV editor/principal cinematographer

16

The Vector | Winter ’15

He stops suddenly, mid-exit, and spins. The door creaks. Audio’s pulled? AAAAHH … On the mainframe, a tech hits a small white button as vital as it is unassuming. Done. Whenever you’re ready. Audio’s pulled. We’re going live in 5 … 4 … 3 … 2 … 1. Go! “Hey Moreau, it’s been awhile since we had our last show.” “In fact, Antoinette, isn’t this your first show since you went to—” Audio higher on line 2 … A little higher please … “It was really fun. I had the time of my life, but I’m glad to—” Cue playback. “And I’m glad you’re back anchoring with me, too. So let’s get on with the show … MCTV … starts now!” Rolling intro … back in 30 … Momentarily off camera, the anchors laugh themselves


silly, practically collapsing onto each other. “You are SO cheesy!” All the nerves, tension and silence that shrouded the anchors’ desk in September is long gone. But the four members manning the control room won’t have time to joke around until—

—each switch is lowered and every panel is shut down.

MCTV videographers Eric Webb, ’15 and Alexa Fontanilla, ’15 record an event for a newscast.

Moreau Catholic's Media and Technology Arts program always generates excitement among young visitors during Mariner Open House. Future Mariners can obtain hands-on experience filming and editing videos during the very popular Mariner Explorers Summer Camp for 6th, 7th and 8th graders—taught by Paul McKenna '83. Visit moreaucatholic.org/explorers for more information.

Winter ’15 | The Vector

17


Scholarships

and other forms of tuition assistance allow many students to attend Moreau Catholic High School in order to earn a collegepreparatory education in the Holy Cross tradition. Moreau

Catholic is honored to partner with alumni, faculty, staff, parents, and friends in the planning and the establishment of annually wfunded as well as endowed scholarships that ensure that many generations of Mariners will receive total or partial financial support in perpetuity.

Endowed Scholarships Daniel P. and Mary Moriarty Scholarship 1

Robert M. Collins Memorial Scholarship

$1.7m Tuition assistance for 29% of students in 2013

John Thomas Harrington Memorial Scholarship Maria Mignano Memorial Scholarship Janet Pessagno Memorial Scholarship

Annually Funded Scholarships 2

Brother Gary Stone, CSC, Memorial Scholarship Kevin R. McCarty Memorial Scholarship Sobrato Scholars

Tuition Assistance Funding Hopes and Dreams 3

The Moreau Fund

4

Join the Circle of Giving 1) John Thomas Harrington 2) Tony Avila ’83, son of Janet Pessagno 3) John M. Sobrato 4) Br. Gary Stone, CSC 5) Gary Miranda ’85

18

The Vector | Winter ’15

100% of Mariners go on to college directly after graduation


Gary Miranda ’85 Alumnus Giving Back Fremont resident Gary Miranda graduated from Moreau Catholic in 1985, earned his B.S. in Finance from Santa Clara University, and his MBA from California State East Bay. His son Garrett graduated from Moreau Catholic in 2014 and his daughter Allison will graduate this year.

The Vector: From your perspective as an alumnus and parent, how has Moreau Catholic evolved? It’s evolved as an academically challenging school with a strong STEM focus. I appreciate the fact that Moreau Catholic thoroughly integrates technology into the classroom and provides students with the ability to move beyond foundational knowledge to solve problems efficiently and creatively. In addition, Moreau Catholic has developed a strong arts program that attracts very talented students. They put on some remarkable performances.

The Vector: What are the important qualities for a young adult to possess?

5

I believe a strong work ethic and critical thinking skills are two very important qualities for young adults. These qualities translate to future academic and work success. Classes at Moreau Catholic are challenging and necessitate hard work and critical thinking. And for students with particular strengths outside of the classroom, the athletic, arts, and band programs all are excellent ways to develop work ethic, and my children have benefited from participation. In fact, most of Moreau Catholic’s student body participates in extra-curricular activity, and the high participation rate really strengthens the entire school.

The Vector: You’ve been a generous donor (thank you!). Is there an aspect of the school’s mission that makes your gift particularly gratifying? Moreau Catholic’s mission to cultivate both the heart and mind of students is so unique — I hope that by giving back to the school, my family plays a part in ensuring this wonderful legacy continues for many years.

YOU

If you believe you owe your success in college and career in part to the education you received at Moreau Catholic, please consider making a gift or pledge by visiting moreaucatholic.org/

giving. For information on planned giving or endowed scholarships, please contact the Office of Advancement: 510.881.4305.

Winter ’15 | The Vector

19


InvestiNDreams 6th Annual Funding Hopes and Dreams

Student Jasmyn Fletcher ’15

I want everybody to know the impact tuition assistance has on students like me and families like mine. I feel like it’s my duty to fundraise so other families have THE Chance to be a

part of this school."

—Jasmyn Fletcher '15

Like so many things today, an education of this quality is not inexpensive. What a shame it would be for mere money alone to stand in the way of the next generation of civic leaders, all-star athletes, technology innovators, and dazzling artists. That is what funding hopes and dreams means to us; assuring that this and future generations of Mariners can enjoy the opportunity to pursue their dreams WITHOUT THE BURDEN OF

FINANCIAL OBSTACLES." —President Terry Lee 20

The Vector | Winter ’15

Keynote speaker Ted Griggs ’78, President of Comcast SportsNet Bay Area, entertained the guests with a hilarious retelling of his years as a Mariner.


Alumna speaker Katie Hansen '08 Moreau Catholic Mathematics Teacher and Cross Country Coach

John M. Sobrato

M

oreau Catholic hosted its 6th annual Funding Hopes and Dreams Luncheon on November 20th. President of Comcast SportsNet Bay Area, Ted Griggs ’78, served as this year’s Keynote Speaker. Alumna and current faculty member Katie Hansen ’08, student Jasmyn Fletcher ’15, and Brother Bill Nick, CSC, all spoke about the impact and importance of Moreau Catholic’s Tuition Assistance Program. “I want everybody to know the impact tuition assistance has on students like me and families like mine,” Fletcher said. “I feel like it’s my duty now to fundraise so other families have the chance to be a part of this school.”

Sobrato Scholars In keeping with their vision of supporting low-income youth to graduate high school prepared for college and careers, Sobrato Philanthropies established the Sobrato Scholars fund at Moreau Catholic. This vital support is awarded to students with demonstrated financial need, outstanding academic achievement and a commitment to service.

The money raised from our six annual events has benefited hundreds of Mariner students. Simply, without tuition assistance, they would not be able to attend the school. “Being part of Moreau is being part of a greater community,” Hansen said. “Our students come to experience it for themselves—they’re part of a family.” On behalf of the Board of Trustees, thank you to the Moreau Catholic community for the years of support in Funding Hopes and Dreams. Join us on October 24th, 2015 for our 7th Annual Funding Hopes and Dreams event in support of Moreau Catholic Tuition Assistance. View a recap of the 6 Annual Funding Hopes and Dreams luncheon at th

moreaucatholic.org/videos.

Moreau Catholic's registrar Kim Capurro and brother-in-law Dave Capurro '77 are generous supporters of the Moreau Catholic tuition assistance program.

Winter ’15 | The Vector

21


46th Annual

Crab Feed

The Crab Feed is a festive opportunity for classmates, friends and teachers to reconnect. Bob Valladon ’73, Janet Songey, Bobbi Valladon ’73, Marshall Willson, Janice (Truax) Willson ’73, Robin Spillner and Mark Spillner ’73 broke off a conversation to face the camera and smile.

O Sold out again! Moreau Catholic’s Crab Feed is considered one of the Bay Area’s best.

n January 24th, over 700 patrons descended on the Moreau Catholic High School Gym to feast on fresh Dungeness crab, pasta and to bid on great auction items.

Over 300 volunteers helped to make this event the most successful Crab Feed in the history of Moreau Catholic. The 12 raffle baskets, 31 silent auction items with 13 desserts, and 9 outstanding live auction items had people buzzing all night. Some of the highlights were the Trip to Orlando, a Cabo Time Share, Fighter Pilot for a Day, signed items by Hunter Pence, Tim Lincecum, and the Splash Brothers (Stephen Curry and Clay Thompson), Disneyland tickets, the ever popular Boozeter Basket, and a Beach Cruiser Bicycle. After all expenses are calculated, the Booster Club will have raised over $50,000.00 for Mariner Athletics. Special “shout out” to the 32 coaches and 64 student athletes who worked the event, and the Girls Soccer and Boys Basketball teams who showed up the next day to finish the clean up! — Christine Krisman, Athletic Director

22

The Vector | Winter ’15


President Terry Lee caught up with Ray Tsurumoto, a key supporter involved in the creation of Moreau Catholic’s exchange program with Ichifuna High School, Funabashi, Japan.

Board of Trustees member Mr. Quang Trinh '88, Bettina Bui, and Tony Mirenda enjoyed the Mardi Gras atmosphere.

Thomas and Claire Aiello, parents of Mariner alumni, are perennial supporters of Moreau Catholic's Crab Feed.

The charming Mary Jo and Kurt Schaarschmidt previewed the silent auction baskets and items.

Efficient and gracious athlete servers make it possible to zoom fresh crab to 700 guests. Thank you Brian Robinson '16, Nathaniel Leon '16 and Dylan Mackin '15.

Winter ’15 | The Vector

23


raises $4,000 for St. Clement School

Diana Garcia-Colmenarez ‘16 and Bailey Galloway ‘16 were one of 21 teams that cozied up for a long night of reading during the 5th Annual Moreau Catholic 24-hour Read-a-thon.

24

The Vector | Winter ’15


T

This year’s unprecedented show of community suphe 5th Annual Read-a-Thon raised over $4,000 this year, a new event record. port—food and prize donations, hourly challenges, Proceeds will benefit the reading program late-night LiveStream commentary, and “guest” prefects (thanks, Dean of Students Colleen Galloway ’77 and of our neighbor, St. Clement School. AP of Instruction Ryan Brusco)—kept everyone going Twenty-one teams began reading at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, January 16th. Twenty-four hours later, through the wee hours of the morning. The contest is simple, but grueling. One team memonly five teams were left, facing a “special challenge” to ber reads—can sit or lie down—while the other remains decide the winner. Seniors Thomas Whaley and Dominik standing or active—perhaps taking part in Reichel prevailed, winning $150 a prepared challenge. Both team members Amazon gift certificates. But the real must remain awake for the duration of the winner is event. St. Clement’s. The five teams reaching the end of the “Words are unable to describe the competition had to unscramble book titles partnership that has grown between for the victory. our schools,” St. Clement Principal Whaley’s win with Reichel—Team “BetAna Hernandez-Cortez said. “It’s a ter Dead Than Read”—was his first in four mutual feeling of respect, admiration, tries. “I nearly passed out a couple times collegiality, and most importantly, around 2:30 a.m.,” he recalled. “Once we family. Our faculty is already busy got to the challenge and I learned what it putting together a wish-list of books St. Clement Principal Ana Hernandezwas, I was fine.” needed for their classrooms. Some Cortez and Vice-Principal Anne Dizon officiated at the countdown. Arriaga noted that many participants have asked for class sets that we had and volunteers in attendance were St. Clement’s alumni, been unable to purchase.” making the event that much more special. One constant is The event is one of many coordinated by Moreau the ultimate goal of helping our partners in Catholic eduCatholic’s Library/IT staff, but it’s the one which best cation, making it the perfect prequel to Catholic Schools combines our school’s intellectual curiosity with our Week at the end of January. commitment to helping others. “Of course we’d like to “We truly value collaboration and are constantly thinkdeclare everyone who stays in a winner. It’s easier for me to ing of ways to partner [with Moreau] in order to provide go without sleep than to have to tell students they haven’t our students with an opportunity to experience what the won,” Librarian Anne Arriaga said. “But they never lose life of a Mariner is all about,” Hernandez said. “Overall, sight of why they’re here and what the purpose is. Not the relationship we have with Moreau Catholic is truly even at 5:00 a.m. or after they’ve been eliminated from a blessing!” the competition.”

St. Clement 3rd Annual Auction to benefit tuition assistance Saturday, May 16, 2015 5:00 p.m.-10:00 p.m. Ivaldi Student Center, Moreau Catholic High School Please contact Principal Ana Hernandez-Cortez at 510-538-5885 for more information.

Moreau Catholic Principal Lisa Tortorich with the adorable Carille sisters from St. Clement School. Blessed Basil Moreau Mass, January 20, 2015

Winter ’15 | The Vector

25


Mariners Make Waves England, and Iraq. She has commanded four Security Force Squadrons and is currently the Support Inspections Branch Chief for Global Strike Command. Tamara graduated from Portland State with a BS in Administration of Justice. She also attended the FBI National Academy, received her Masters in Human Relations from the University of Oklahoma, and completed her MA in Security Studies (Homeland Security and Defense) at the Naval Post Graduate School in Monterey. Back, stateside, after three years in Germany, Tamara will retire from the USAF next year as a Lieutenant Colonel and return to Oregon to be closer to family.

Lorraine (Gallagher) Taylor ’80

Lorraine (Gallagher) Taylor ’80 Lorraine moved to Arizona 19 years ago and has “loved it ever since.” She has been married to her husband, Will, for 25 years and has raised two sons, William and Vincent. Lorraine says, “Moreau had a great influence on my life’s values and family values. It was a wonderful experience for me.” John Moroney ’82 John started working as a hairdresser two years after graduating from Moreau. Over the past 30 years, he’s run several global haircare brands such as Aveda, Sebastian & Wella and now Goldwell & KMS. Along the way, he received his BA and MBA in Psychology. John has produced fashion and beauty events all over the world and worked ‘behind the scenes’ at almost every major fashion week. John currently lives in Germany but is back in California several times a year.

26

The Vector | Winter ’15

Kimberly (Bromley) Garcia ’85 Kimberly recently moved back to Dixon, California and is working as a Gas Service Representative with Pacific Gas and Electric Co. Melinda Glines ’90 Melinda graduated from UC Santa Cruz with a BA in Community Studies in 1994. Upon graduation, she served in the Peace Corps in Fiji as a health education trainer for two years. Later, she attended medical school at UC Irvine and completed her family medicine residency at UCSF. Melinda has served as a family physician with Lifelong Medical Care in the East Bay since finishing residency in 2005. The bulk of her work as a family physician is, and always has been, with underserved patients who have limited access to care. Melinda has two children, ages five years and seven months. Tamara Mayer ’90 Tamara was first commissioned in the United States Air Force as a Second Lieutenant. Her service has taken her to six different states, and she has been deployed abroad in Iceland,

Mike Aquino ’91 After serving as Moreau Catholic’s Assistant Principal for Curriculum and Instruction, 20092012, Mike returned to the classroom to teach Social Studies at De La Salle HS. In addition to his classroom responsibilities, he’s the school’s Director of Educational Technology. A former varsity standout as a Mariner wrestler, Aquino is back on the mat as a coach for the Spartans. Mike and his wife live in San Leandro with their 2-year old son, Kai. Barbara Garcia ’95 Barbara attended Stanford University and completed her Dermatology residency at the UCSD School of Medicine. She returned to Northern California six years ago to join Kaiser Permanente as a staff dermatologist. Barbara lives in Oakley with her husband, Jason, 3-year old son, JJ, and 1-year old daughter, Gianna. The family eagerly awaits the arrival of a sibling for JJ and Gianna this May.


Kim has a heart as big as the world and the intelligence to match—and she married a wonderful young man. Our hearts swell with pride!” — Christine Krisman and Michael Krisman ’72

Kimberly Krisman ’03 and Grant Johnson Kimberly married Grant Johnson on May 31, 2014 at St. Isidore Church in Danville. Kim is in her final quarter at UCSF’s School of Pharmacy, and Grant is a P.E. teacher at Gale Ranch School in San Ramon. They reside in Walnut Creek.

Jennifer (Magpayo) Aldrete ’98 Jennifer and her husband, Chris, welcomed the birth of their third child, Liana, on August 29th, 2014. The couple currently resides in Castro Valley with son, CJ, and daughter, Kaya.

There’s a new face on campus. Baby Liana with sister Kaya and brother CJ

Our new mascot, Mariner Man, took center stage at the closing of Unity Week. Winter ’15 | The Vector

27


Allison Torneros ’04

Catie (Ronquillo) Wood ’01 Catie specializes in high school senior portraits for girls, planning and shooting customized on-location portrait sessions. “It’s a huge tradition in Texas that goes beyond the traditional black drape photos for the yearbook from Prestige,” Catie said. Last Spring, Catie worked with three students from the MCHS Class of 2015 to build her portfolio of photo shoots in California. They ultimately used the historic Niles District in Fremont for a beautiful photoshoot. Catie is expanding her offerings to serve the San Francisco Bay Area during the summers and would love to serve fellow Moreau Catholic High School seniors. It’s a great way to stand out from the crowd and the black drapes! Check out more information at www.catieronquillo.com.

28

The Vector | Winter ’15

Lionel Feliciano ’03 Lionel graduated in 2006 from the University of New Haven (Conn.) with degrees in Fire Administration and Fire Arson Investigation. He then spent four years in Sacramento working for the city’s fire department before returning to the Bay Area in 2011. Lionel continues to work as a Firefighter, EMT, and Apparatus Operator with the Redwood City Fire Dept. In June 2013, he married Stephanie Margossian. They currently live in Foster City with their pug, Sheldon. Now back at MCHS, Lionel coaches Cross Country with fellow alumni runners James Hannon ’02, Katie Hansen ’08, Ann Kilzer ‘08, and Elliot Lopes ’10.

Allison Torneros ’04 Allison was named one of LA Weekly’s annual People of LA, 2014. Gaining renown for her vibrant, edgy murals and street art, Allison’s work has been sought after by studios, collectives, and corporations—among them, Microsoft, Converse and Nike. Allison’s painting inspired by Lakers’ guard and Nike spokesman Kobe Bryant, was displayed at the Staples Center. The past year’s highlights also include the debut of her solo collection, Between the Lines, in Hollywood, along with her first NYC gallery show. 2015 finds Allison traveling to Hawaii, Mexico and Switzerland to take part in muraling festivals. Currently, Allison is working on a collection for exhibit at the Mirus Gallery in San Francisco later this year. Visit www.huemannature.com to view more of Allison’s work. Chelsea Sundiang ’09 Chelsea received her degree in Communication Studies & Public Relations from the University of San Francisco this past May. At USF, she interned with Disney World & Teen Vogue, arranged a campaign that raised over $10,000 for the victims of Typhoon Haiyan, and appeared on MTV for her LGBTQ advocacy as a representative for the It Gets Better Project. After college, Chelsea notes, “I hopped right into working for Google, and I landed my first paid acting gig in the lead role for a stage production in San Francisco called Girl Talk.” Chelsea’s freelance marketing résumé includes an eclectic mix of clients ranging from top EDM artists to political campaigns on global warming. She will launch her own online magazine this summer.


Alexandra ‘Lexie’ Preston ’10 On May 24, 2014, Lexie graduated from St. Mary’s College of California in Moraga with a BA in Communication and a double minor in Sociology and Creative Writing. Lexie is still with her high school sweetheart, Sagar Patel, a 2010 graduate, as well.

\

Lexie Preston ’10

Crystal Esparza ’12 Crystal is currently majoring in Business Administration at California State University, East Bay. Her paid summer internship in the Human Resources Department for the city of Berkeley has been extended through the current school year. Crystal also works as a student assistant in the CSUEB Arts & Education Dept., handling accounting and budget support. Crystal volunteers with the Hispanic Community Affairs Council (HCAC), an organization that provides scholarships to help Hispanic students attend college. She maintains the HCAC Facebook page and coordinates the council’s fundraising events, including the annual scholarship award luncheon. Upon graduation, Crystal hopes to become an HCAC board member.

Carl Basbas ’13 Carl is a Biology Major at St. Edward’s University in Austin. His research, a unique study of the effects of plant signaling compounds on bacteria growth, is part of a broader effort to develop a living database of the ecosystem at the university’s Wild Basin Creative Research Center. Basbas, the 2013 Salutatorian, will present an abstract of his research, entitled “The Effects of Salicylic Acid and Jasmonic Acid on the Growth of Rhizosphere and Bacillus Bacteria,” at the 2014 Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minority Students.

2009 Moreau Catholic graduates Peter MacDonnell, videographer Nikita Arsenyev and Jordan Yuson recently reconnected on campus.

Krista Schaarschmidt ’14 Krista is in her first year at Indiana University Bloomington. She auditioned for—and was the only new Alto 2 accepted into—the Singing Hoosiers, a Grammy-nominated ensemble at the IU Jacobs School of Music. This distinguished group of 80 singers is celebrating its 65th anniversary this year, and Krista notes the ensemble has become her “family while so far away from home.”

2014 Moreau Catholic graduates and pals Krista Schaarschmidt and Amalia Martinez came to the Young Alumni Breakfast during Christmas break.

IN MEMORIAM Please pray for the souls of— Rudolph Brazil

Alexandra (Ola) Lorens ’08

Robbie Dawson

Regina Mastrantonio

Judith Flannery

Francisco Sanding

Janet (Mummert) Foust ’73

Claire Showers

Carmen Herrera

Rita Ann Campanelli Stich

Sandee Krzywicki

Thomas Whalen

Winter ’15 | The Vector

29


Making Waves Jordan Yuson ’09 Jordan graduated Cum Laude with in the Surface Warfare Officer program. He is currently stationed at a BA in Kinesiology from St. Edward’s Naval Base San Diego. University, Austin, Texas in May 2013. “The Catholic education I received from St. EdHe also received the Outstanding Kinesiology Student Award 2012-13. ward’s and Moreau Catholic fortified my [ability] Jordan earned the Moreau Scholarto balance risk and reward in order to make sound ship, a full tuition scholarship to Saint decisions,” Yuson said. Edwards University, for his commitment to, and excellence in, academics, “Jordan exemplifies what a Holy Cross education is about,” said St. leadership and community service. Edward’s professor John Knorr. “He is a scholar with an inquisitive and On April 28, 2014, Jordan took questioning mind. He challenged me in upper level courses which is a the Oath of Enlistment to the United States Navy. “I joined the Navy welcome attitude. He was a pleasure to work with, and the US Navy because I wanted a change of pace,” Jordan said. “I welcome change will benefit from his service as an officer.” and take on the challenges that come with it because I trust in myself to Jordan is the son of Joselyn Yuson ’84 and nephew of Jose survive.” Yuson ’85, Joy Mari Yuson Knott ’93 and Michael Knott ’92. He completed 12 weeks of training at the Naval Officer Candidate School in Newport, Rhode Island, and was commissioned as an Ensign

Jordan, ’08 yearbook photo

Submit Your Nomination 2015 Hall of Fame Saturday, October 10, 2015 Honor an outstanding athlete, coach, or administrator who has shared their time, talent, and treasure over the years to help build the strong legacy of an exceptional athletics program at Moreau Catholic High School. Nomination form available at moreaucatholic.org/halloffame15

30

The Vector | Winter ’15


Save the Date 33rd Annual

GOLF CLASSIC All proceeds benefit the Br. Gary Stone, CSC, Memorial Scholarship

Monday, June 29, 2015 Crow Canyon Country Club Diana (Straggas) DeFrance ’76 Associate Director for Advancement Alumni and Special Events ddefrance@moreaucatholic.org

Moreau Catholic High School 510.881.4330

Winter ’15 | The Vector

31


NON-PROFIT ORG US Postage PAID HAYWARD, CA PERMIT NO. 851

27170 Mission Boulevard Hayward, CA 94544-4194 Change Service Requested

Mariner Explorers for 5th, 6th, and 7th graders Summer’s right around the corner. Moreau Catholic offers a great way to explore Robotics, Filmmaking, World Languages, Dance and our popular Maker Lab. Classes are two weeks long, beginning on June 22, 2015 from 8:00 a.m. - noon. moreaucatholic.org/explorers


Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.